bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensory Function of Children With Strabismus After Epiblepharon Surgery
Authors: You Heejeong , Lew Helen
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

To investigate the effect of epiblepharon surgery on motor and sensory function in children with epiblepharon and concomitant strabismus.

Methods:

Among 564 patients who underwent epiblepharon correction surgery from May 2016 to April 2023, 45 children who were examined for strabismus were included in the study. Preoperative and postoperative visual acuity, refraction, and angle of deviation were analyzed. For those with significant angle of deviation, additional stereopsis, sensory fusion, and returning time were retrospectively investigated. The angle of deviation was examined by one examiner at distance and near.

Results:

The mean age of 45 children (18 boys and 27 girls) was 6.8 ± 2.9 years. Fifteen had significant strabismus at the time of epiblepharon surgery. Visual acuity improved in both the total and strabismus groups. Improvement in stereopsis and fusion was also observed in the strabismus group. The angle of deviation showed no difference in both groups.

Conclusions:

Epiblepharon could affect ocular manifestations of strabismus as shown in this study. The authors suggest strabismus treatment be continued after epiblepharon surgery, with improved sensory function. Further evaluation with larger groups is needed in the future.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 2024;61(4):257–261.]
Some new Young type inequalities
Authors: Ren Yonghui
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we gave some generalized Young type inequalities due to Zuo and Li [J. Math. Inequal., 16 (2022), 1169-1178], and we also presented a new Young type inequality. As applications, we obtained some operator inequalities and matrix versions inequalities including the Hilbert-Schmidt norm and trace.
Optimal strategies of oncolytic virus-bortezomib therapy via the apoptotic, necroptotic, and oncolysis signaling network
Authors: Lee Donggu , de los Reyes V Aurelio A. , Kim Yangjin
Published: February 2024

Bortezomib and oncolytic virotherapy are two emerging targeted cancer therapies. Bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor, disrupts protein degradation in cells, leading to the accumulation of unfolded proteins that induce apoptosis. On the other hand, virotherapy uses genetically modified oncolytic viruses (OVs) to infect cancer cells, trigger cell lysis, and activate anti-tumor response. Despite progress in cancer treatment, identifying administration protocols for therapeutic agents remains a significant concern, aiming to strike a balance between efficacy, minimizing toxicity, and administrative costs. In this work, optimal control theory was employed to design a cost-effective and efficient co-administration protocols for bortezomib and OVs that could significantly diminish the population of cancer cells via the cell death program with the NF$ \kappa $B-BAX-RIP1 signaling network. Both linear and quadratic control strategies were explored to obtain practical treatment approaches by adapting necroptosis protocols to efficient cell death programs. Our findings demonstrated that a combination therapy commencing with the administration of OVs followed by bortezomib infusions yields an effective tumor-killing outcome. These results could provide valuable guidance for the development of clinical administration protocols in cancer treatment.
On the Application of Digitized Virtual Reality Technology in the Teaching of Landscape Architecture Design
Authors: Yu Anping , Xu Zheng
Published: February 2024

Landscape garden design is an important design foundation course for undergraduate students of landscape architecture in China, but the current classroom teaching has the problem of limited spatial dimension of the course. This paper proposes a virtual scene model construction method through the computer software with the creation of the need to display the scene. This virtual reality technology has immersive, interactive, and risqué characteristics. This paper focuses on the key points of virtual reality technology, discusses the specific implementation method of virtual reality technology in the “landscape garden design” course, and introduces the interactive control principle. The results of the research show that virtual reality technology to assist teaching can cultivate students' spatial thinking and enhance students' spatial simulation experience, greatly reducing the cost of traditional teaching.
Public Policy Reforms
Authors: Gwakwara Cleophas , Niyitunga Eric Blanco
Published: February 2024

Governments are duty-bound to carry out public policy reforms in a bid to address specific public concerns, needs, and social interests, and stir their economies on sustainable development trajectories. This is done following their constitutional mandates. Zimbabwe has implemented several policy reforms in education, health, housing, finance, agriculture, mining, energy, policing, correctional services, and transport, among others, with varied degrees of success and challenges. These reforms required varied formulation and implementation approaches depending on the objectives and prevailing circumstances. This study gives a scholarly perspective of the public policy reform, ‘Education 5.0', on primary and secondary education in Zimbabwe, given concerns about the policy from stakeholders. An interview was conducted with a convenient sample of stakeholders. An assortment of documentary evidence was also used to gather secondary data. The study concluded that most of the respondents were satisfied with the policy Education 5.0 in principle.
Efficient Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Production Utilizing Advanced Integrated Heterostructures Silicon Solar Cells and 2D-Material
Authors: Alarawi Abeer. A.
Published: February 2024

To avoid air pollution and global warming correlated with utilize utilizing fossil fuels to produce hydrogen. Developing new renewable technologies for generating H2, such as photoelectrochemical water splitting, is undoubtedly important for the future of this clean energy carrier. In fact, most of the H2 today is produced from the steam-reforming methane, which produces environmentally, and health hazard gases, such as CO2. To address this critical challenge, researchers tend to generate H2 by utilizing a promising alternative method to the current CO2-emitting fossil fuel, such as electrolysis of water. A Photoelectrochemical (PEC) unit consists of three essential components: a light absorber that generates electron-hole pairs upon illumination and a co-catalyst combined as a photocathode. This photocathode's structure facilitates charge transfer and reduces the resultant overpotential for gas production. In addition to the reference electrode (made of metal such as Pt) and electrolyte (acid-based solution). The Si-heterojunction solar cell (Si-HJ) is applied as a photocathode due to its high open-circuit voltages (VOC), high-circuit current density (JSC), and excellent photon management to avoid recombination by the surface structuring. Moreover, the Si-HJ cell has high efficiency due to its periodic micro-pyramid (MP) structure, which has the omnidirectional broadband ability to trap light. Moreover, co-catalyst materials possess characteristics such as a chemical match between Si-HSC/co-catalyst and high stability during the operation. In addition, an earth-abundant, inexpensive, non-toxic, and highly efficient catalytic characteristic toward H2 generating can be integrated into photocathodes. Several characterization methods were utilized to investigate the performance of developed Si-HSC/co-catalyst based PEC. We demonstrate Si-HSC/co-catalyst as an efficient photocathode for PEC H2 production. The Si-HSC/co-catalyst photocathode shows an ability to address the shortcoming of each component. We have achieved a half cell solar-to-hydrogen (STH) conversion efficiency of 5.57% under AM 1.5G illumination with a maximum photocurrent density of 36.33 mA/cm2 and an onset potential of 0.5 V vs. RHE. Besides, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) elucidates that the integration of co-catalyst significantly reduced the charge transfer resistance and thereby enhanced the PEC H2 production performance of Si-HSC/co-catalyst based PEC. Accordingly, the integration of Si (excellent light harvesting) and co-catalyst (H2 catalytic ability, and chemical protection) results in fabricating of an earth-abundant catalyst coupled photocathode that has an efficient and stable PEC H2 production characteristics.
Graphene-Infused Zinc-Rich Epoxy Coating for Corrosion Protection Enhancement in Oil and Gas Steel Structures
Authors: Othman N. H. , Samsudin M. , Nor A. Mohammed , Zakaria M.
Published: February 2024

This study aims to investigate the impact of incorporating graphene into zinc-rich epoxies, with the primary objective of extending the cathodic protection of steel plates against corrosion and reducing the zinc content in the paint formulation. To achieve this, graphene-modified zinc-rich epoxy coatings (G-ZRE) were developed, containing varying concentrations of 0.05 wt% and 0.2 wt% graphene in a matrix of 65 wt% zinc-rich epoxy. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was employed to assess the effect of graphene on the corrosion protection capabilities of the G-ZREs. Additionally, Open Circuit Potential (OCP) measurements were utilized to gain deeper insights into the fundamental mechanism underlying the protective characteristics of the composite coating. Salt spray tests were conducted for 3000 hours, and the creep age was calculated to validate and corroborate the findings derived from the EIS and OCP measurements. The results demonstrated that the addition of 0.05 wt% graphene in the 65 wt% zinc-rich epoxy coatings increased the duration of cathodic protection from 558 hours to 850 hours. The analysis from EIS and OCP indicated that the primary protective mechanism for G-ZREs involved a combination of barrier and sacrificial modes of protection. In contrast, the control coating without graphene exhibited solely sacrificial protection, resulting in accelerated failure compared to the G-ZREs. Furthermore, the salt spray tests revealed that the creepage area of the 0.05 wt% G-ZREs was the smallest, further confirming the excellent barrier protection offered by the composite coating. Therefore, these findings could help reduce the reliance on zinc particles as pigments in zinc-rich coatings, thereby mitigating the environmental impact associated with the potential leaching of zinc particles into the surrounding environment. Overall, incorporating graphene into zinc-rich epoxy coatings in the petroleum industry offers enhanced corrosion resistance, extending the lifespan of equipment and infrastructure. This reduces maintenance costs, improves operational efficiency, and contributes to the advancement of knowledge while benefiting the petroleum industry.
Efficient Spectral Wave Fatigue Assessment of Modules: Utilizing Response Amplitude Operators and Generic Stress Concentration Factors
Authors: Winmar Abrogena P. E. , Christopher Al Basilio , Johanna Czarina Tan
Published: February 2024

Fatigue failure occurs due to repeated loading, and it is important to consider cyclic loading from wave action in the design. This paper describes an efficient spectral fatigue procedure that utilizes response amplitude operators (RAO), generic stress concentration factors (SCF), and structure analysis computer system (SACS) using its sub-programs, called Tow, Fatigue and Joint Mesher. Hot spot stress spectral fatigue analysis of topside modules, consisting of non-tubular joints, is usually complex and cannot be easily performed. An integrated model of the topside module and floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel can be used in fatigue analysis. The hull and topside module engineers work with independent models due to contractual obligations. The hull engineer analyzes the FPSO vessel with a finite element (FE) model. The topside module engineer uses beam elements without meshing. The topsides module engineer can utilize RAO information provided by the naval architect. This was considered as an efficient alternative to developing an integrated model.

In a hot spot stress approach, a large portion of the labor hours for fatigue analysis were normally allocated in generating the SCF. A default SCF equal to six is typically assumed for axial, in-plane bending, and out-of-plane bending in fatigue screening of non-tubular joints. This default SCF is not effective when there are many modules to analyze, and a local FE model is needed to further evaluate joints. In this paper, an efficient approach is proposed. The approach is using generic SCF of typical joint for the module. The approach has been applied on FPSO topside modules, which were planned to be installed in the North Sea and Gulf of Mexico. An example application of the procedure for a module is discussed. It also includes other considerations when performing fatigue analysis of modules.

The usage of RAO information instead of an integrated model, and generic SCF to derive hot-spot stresses allows convenient application of different modules or projects that are based on typical or standard joint details. It increases the efficiency of resources, i.e. labor, computation, in performing spectral fatigue life assessment. The approach appears to be an improvement compared to using a default SCF equals to six.
Intelligent Prediction and Geomechanical Analysis of Well Leakage in High Temperature and High Pressure Wells in the South China Sea
Authors: Zhao Yuhang , Yang Jin , Yang KaiDie , Xu DongSheng , Zhu Hong , Zhang Xun , Han ZengCheng , Wen ZhiLiang
Published: February 2024

A series of drilling problems are faced during the development of high-temperature and high-pressure oil and gas fields in the South China Sea, which seriously restricts the safe and efficient development of oil and gas fields. Under the influence of geological environment, drilling technology and other factors, well leakage accidents are easy to occur. In order to prevent high temperature and high pressure well leakage and reduce accidental losses, an improved sparrow search algorithm (ISSA) optimized support vector machine for well leakage prediction is proposed. Firstly, the inverse learning strategy is introduced to enhance the global search ability of the algorithm; secondly, the learning strategy of particle swarm algorithm is borrowed to improve the finder position updating formula to improve the search speed and optimization accuracy of the algorithm; finally, Levy flights are introduced into the warning position updating formula to avoid local optimality. Comparison experiments are done between the Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA), Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm (PSO), Differential Evolutionary Algorithm (DE), Gray Wolf Algorithm (GWO), Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), and the Improved Sparrow Search Algorithm (ISSA) on eight benchmark test functions. The experimental results show that the improved Sparrow Search Algorithm (ISSA) is better than the other algorithms in terms of optimization accuracy, stability, etc. Finally, the improved Sparrow Search Algorithm (ISSA) is compared with the other algorithms. Finally, the improved sparrow search algorithm is used to optimize the support vector machine (ISSA-SVM), and ISSA-SVM models with and without geomechanical parameters are constructed to analyze the influence of geomechanical parameters on leakage, and the weights of the geomechanical parameters are analyzed by using the hierarchical analysis method (AHP). By controlling the input parameters of ISSA-SVM model, the reasonableness of the results of weighting analysis was verified. The results show that the prediction accuracy of ISSA-SVM is 98. 1135%, and the convergence speed is fast, the number of iterations is less, it can predict the well leakage accidents efficiently and quickly, and improve the drilling efficiency and reliability, and the influence of rupture pressure is the most obvious among the six important geomechanical factors affecting the occurrence of well leakage.
Temporal Deep Learning Image Processing Model for Natural Gas Leak Detection Using OGI Camera
Authors: Korjani Mehdi , Conley David , Smith Mark
Published: February 2024

Natural gas extraction systems often encounter manufacturing defects or develop defects over time, leading to gas leaks. These leaks pose challenges, causing revenue losses and environmental pollution. Detecting gas leaks in the vast array of extraction, transfer, and storage equipment within these systems can be arduous, allowing leaks to persist unnoticed. Additionally, natural gas leaks are not visible to naked eyes, further complicating their detection.

We developed a novel deep learning image processing model that utilizes videos captured by a specialized Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) camera to detect natural gas leaks. The temporal deep learning algorithm is designed to identify patterns associated with gas leaks and improve its performance through supervised learning. Our model incorporates algorithms to detect background environments, motion, equipment, and classify gas leaks.

Our model employs leak identification algorithms to determine the presence of gas leaks. These algorithms calculate the probability of detected motion indicating a gas leak based on long-term and short-term background subtraction, detected motion, motion duration, equipment location, and telemetry data. To minimize false positives, we have developed image segmentation and object detection models to identify known objects, such as equipment, people, and cars, within the video footage. To train our model we collect more than 10,000 short videos from real fields and include simulated data with known rate controlled gas release in different situations. Data consist of wide range of weather situations including different temperature, wind speed, humidity in sunny, rainy, and snowy fields.

We validated our model by conducting experiments involving actual footage from the field. The model achieved a 98% true positive rate, and a 100% true negative rate, correctly refraining from sending an alarm for all non-releases.

Additionally, we developed a postprocessing algorithm capable of estimating the gas leak rate based on the volume of gas leaks observed in the video footage and their distance from the camera. Our experimental results demonstrate that the detected leak rates exhibit an accuracy exceeding 78%.

By employing this deep learning image processing model, natural gas extraction systems can significantly enhance their ability to detect gas leaks promptly, reducing revenue losses and mitigating environmental impact.
Assessment of CO2 Storage Potential Capacity in Depleted Reservoirs of Offshore Malay Basin
Authors: Yakup M. H. B. , Affandi R. B. A. , Trianto A. , Rahman M. Z. B. A. , Chidambaram P. , Hendraningrat L. , Jalil M. A. B. A.
Published: February 2024

Due to concerns about global warming and climate change, storing CO2 using an underground geologic structure has been widely discussed and put into action. Depleted gas reservoirs are one of the most common geological solutions for CO2 storage for a variety of reasons. Depleted gas reservoirs are excellent for storing CO2 when taking into account data accessibility, economic viability, and storage safety. In this research, the appraisal of CO2 storage potential in depleted reservoirs offshore the Malaysian Basin is discussed as part of storage development plan.

This study explains the assessment of CO2 storage potential capacity in depleted gas reservoirs which includes dynamic modelling of major reservoir, analytical evaluation of minor reservoirs as well as project risk analysis exercise. For both wet gas and dry gas reservoirs, the material balance equation (MBE) approach was employed to predict hydrocarbon recovery. The MBE considers the natural gas production history and the idea of volumetric balance at reservoir pressure and temperature. The MBE can also be used to calculate the gas injection efficiency for natural gas storage.

An integrated subsurface-surface study included geomechanics study was carried out during storage development plan study to establish a notional CO2 storage development plan for a field with few depleted reservoirs of Offshore Malay Basin. The dry and wet gas reservoirs were identified as the fluid phase behaviors of the depleted reservoirs of the Offshore Malaysian Basin, which is extremely suitable to simplify the role of a depleted gas reservoir to only storing CO2 in an underground formation. The historical match for all reservoirs achieved acceptable match between simulated and observed data for dynamic production and pressure that some of those reservoirs require aquifer with varies of size. Four large reservoirs were assessed with potential CO2 storage capacity of these reservoirs, which ranged from 1.6 Tscf to 2.3 Tscf. Upside storage capacity in minor reservoirs could achieve 425 Bscf in the meantime. Based on this study, aquifers are identified as a key element that affects the storage capacity potential.

This field is planned to have CO2 injection site ready for injection in near future to monetize the nearby high CO2 gas fields to meet GHG requirement. The key subsurface and surface facilities risk were identified as project risk assessment.
Is There Any Relationship Between Systemic Inflammatory Markers And Meningioma Grade?
Authors: Manjunath Niveditha , Mishra Shashwat , Garg Kanwaljeet , Suri Vaishali , Sharma Mehar Chand , Tandon Vivek , Singh Manmohan , Suri Ashish , Chandra P. Sarat , Kale Shashank Sharad
Published: February 2024

Background:

Systemic inflammatory markers have been found to be of value in predicting the prognosis in renal cell and gastrointestinal cancers. Recent studies in gliomas correlating with Systemic inflammatory markers (SIMS) have shown promise in predicting survival.

Objective:

Meningiomas are the commonest intracranial primary brain tumors in adults. There is a need to distinguish low and high grade meningiomas preoperatively as they have crucial implications for the radicality of surgical excision and prognostication.

Methods:

A retrospective search was conducted, and the newly diagnosed meningioma cases were studied. The preoperative hematological parameters of the patients and pathological tumor grades were noted. The grade 1 meningioma was defined as low-grade meningioma while grade 2 and 3 meningiomas were defined as high-grade meningioma. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the association between the hematological parameters and tumor grade.

Results:

Seven hundred and eighty meningioma cases with a mean age of 43.5 years were included. The ANC, NLR, and dNLR were found to be significantly elevated in high-grade meningioma (P = 0.03). Other inflammatory parameters including TLC failed to show a statistically significant difference when compared between the grades of meningioma. ROC analysis further showed limited value of these markers in predicting meningioma grade. However, an elevated ANC (OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.02–1.14), male sex (OR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.13–2.58), and tumor origin from sites other than the skull base or thecal sac (OR = 3.33, 95% CI = 1.93–6.12) were predictive of high-grade meningioma in regression analysis.

Conclusion:

Preoperative hematological inflammatory parameters have limited value in predicting the grade of tumor in meningiomas. An elevated preoperative ANC, NLR, and dNLR were found to be more frequently associated with high grade of meningiomas.
Headache of Wearing PPE; A Survey for Neurological Symptoms with PPE amongst Health Care Workers
Authors: Srinath Rajagopal , Yanamandra Uday , Singh Anurag , Aggarwal Nupur , Kaur Praneet , Aggarwal Bhavya , Shobhit Shivendra , Duhan Gaytri , Paul Debashish , Bareedu Sai Pavan K , Sahu Rajesh , Menon Anil S
Published: February 2024

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic has put the entire medical fraternity into a very challenging and demanding situation. Along with always being at the risk of COVID infection, healthcare workers (HCWs) are also facing neurological problems due to long working hours in personal protective equipment (PPE). These symptoms and their characteristics need to be observed and studied in-depth to understand the problems experienced by HCWs and to design new solutions to overcome such problems.

Objectives:

This study intends to evaluate the various neurological manifestations among the HCWs wearing PPE for prolonged periods.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study at a Covid care center from western India from April 20 to June 01, 2021 by using a self-administered web-based questionnaire. A total of 256 HCWs were surveyed. The de-identified data were analyzed using JMP 15.0.0.

Results:

Among a total of 256 HCWs surveyed for this study, the majority (58.6%) were aged 24–35 years, with a male preponderance (65.62%, n = 168). Participants included doctors (41%), nurses (35%), paramedical staff (22%), and housekeeping staff (1%). The symptoms encountered among the HCWs wearing the PPE were headache, classified further as donning headache in 112 (44.98%), doffing headache in 56 (26.24%), slowed mentation in 48 (21.05%), and excessive sleepiness in 86 (38.74%), which affected their work performance. The age of the HCWs had a significant correlation with all the symptoms.

Conclusion:

Headache, slowed mentation, and excessive sleepiness was encountered among the HCWs wearing PPE, which depended upon the duration of PPE usage. The most common symptom was headache, which was of moderate to severe intensity.
Dose–volume parameters comparison of organs at risk between the prone and supine positions in pelvic tumors using 3D-CRT
Authors: Haghparast Abbas , Afandideh Mahsa , Farshchian Negin , Naderi Setareh
Published: February 2024

Aims:

Cancer is a major public health problem worldwide, the leading cause of death in developed countries. Radiotherapy is an important treatment for many malignancies. The main purpose of this study was to compare the two techniques of supine and prone in prostate and rectal cancers using DVH extraction parameters.

Methods and Material:

Clinical and dosimetry data of 41 rectal and prostate cancer patients were evaluated in both the supine and prone positions with belly board. Administered dose was daily 180 cGy. The four box fields in the first phase and two lateral fields in the second phase with 18 MV photon fields were used. Each patient underwent CT scan, at both the positions using a contrast agent with a full bladder.

Statistical Analysis Used:

By using IBM SPSS software v23, all the data were described. The normal distribution of the data was performed using the KS sample statistical test. For data analysis, paired t test was used in the normal data and the Wilcoxon test was used in the non-normal data.

Results:

In patients with rectal cancer, there is no change in the received minimum dose by organs at risk. A significant decrease in received maximum dose, except for the prostate organ, could be due to the spatial proximity of the two organs to each other. Also, the received average dose in the small intestine was significantly reduced (P = 0.005). But in other organs, the dose reduction was not significant. In patients with prostate cancer, there is no change in the received minimum dose by OARs, except for the bladder organ (P = 0.003). Except the bladder organs (P = 0.011), there is no significant decrease in the received average dose by OARs. The maximum dose of the OARs is significantly reduced, except for the colon where there was not much overlap in the PTV, in addition to receiving the dose in the range. There was no significant relationship between CI in the rectal field and UI in the prostate field (P > 0.05), but there was a significant relationship between CI in the prostate field and UI in the rectal field with change in patient position.

Conclusions:

In the prone position, in both patients’ groups, the OARs receive an optimal and better dose than the supine position, especially the small intestine organ in the rectal field and the bladder and rectum organs in the prostate field. However, it seems that this change in the position of rectal cancer patients is ineffective in reducing the dose of prostate and needs further investigation.
Differences and their contexts between teaching and nonteaching hospitals in Iran with other countries
Authors: Sadeghi Niusha Shahidi , Maleki Mohammadreza , Gorji Hassan Abolghasem , Vatankhah Soudabeh , Mohaghegh Bahram
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

In terms of missions, hospitals are divided into teaching and nonteaching. In addition, differences in health-care systems in countries will lead to differences in hospitals' operation. Iran, as a specific health-care system, is different from other countries. Hence, the present study investigated differences between teaching and nonteaching hospitals and their differences in Iran and the world.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A concurrent mixed-methods study was conducted in two stages. The first stage was a narrative review of studies (2000–2020). Using narrative inquiry and reflective analysis, the content was analyzed and the categories were extracted. The second stage was a qualitative study conducted using semi-structured interviews with forty Iranian hospital managers and policymakers through a purposive sampling in 2020. Content analysis was made using deductive approach, and MAXQDA 12 was used for data analysis.

RESULTS:

According to the first stage, categories were extracted as follows: service quality, type of cases, patient satisfaction, efficiency, performance indicators, patient safety, personnel, use of drugs, access to services, technologies, justice in the type of services received, using guidelines, processes, and number of services. In the second stage, 8 main categories, 17 categories, and 45 subcategories were extracted. The extracted main categories were as follows: mission and target, management and behavioral organizations, supply chain and chain of results, human resources, costs and budget, policy demands, clients' satisfaction and patients' right, and integration of medical education.

CONCLUSION:

Unlike other countries, in Iran, the combination of missions and the complete dependence of teaching hospitals on the government has caused differences. Reducing the treatment mission of teaching hospitals; differences in the budget and development of its indicators; lower tariffs for teaching hospitals; developing a cost–income management model and supply chain; preventing uncertainty other than medical students except medicine; considering the clients' right to choose hospital; and organizing research missions in hospitals were the solutions for decrease differences.
Generational characteristics of general medicine students in Iran
Authors: Firoozjahantighi Azarmidokht , jokar Fariba , Haghani Fariba , Ahmadnia Shirin
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Purpose: The success of any educational system depends on the fitness of the curriculum components with the characteristics of its audience. The students of the present generation are different from the previous ones due to the changes resulting from the changes that have taken place in society, media, technology, and communication as we entered the 21th century. Hence, this study was conducted to identify the characteristics of MD students in universities of medical sciences in Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This qualitative study was conducted on 32 MD students among 7 universities of medical universities of Iran. The participants were selected through purposive sampling method, and the data were collected via semi-structured interviews after getting informed consent. Then, the data were analyzed using conventional content analysis method.

RESULTS:

Technology as a Double-Edged Sword, in digital age, Quick access, Reasoning the basis of acceptance. Evaluation ambiguity, Seeking independence,get involved in problems, desirable teaching qualities, my favorite teacher, features of content, Role models traces,my favorite teacher, The rest are unchanged.

CONCLUSION:

MD students are interested in using various teaching methods and technologies, applying methods that are similar to their future job and learning by doing; they also tend to use visual materials and shortening the time and memorizing content. They prefer professors who love to teach and are good role models for them. What motivates them is to be involved in the classroom, to be active, to be respected, and not to be ignored.
Community perception of accessibility and barriers to utilizing mental health services
Authors: Lakshmana Govindappa , Sangeetha Vasunaik , Pandey Vijyendra
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The Government of India and State Government authorities are trying their best to provide adequate mental health services through various mental health policies and programs. To reduce the burden in psychiatric hospitals, Government has decentralized mental health services. Although Government has provided mental health services, the utilization has always been low due to many reasons. In the present study, an attempt was made to assess the accessibility and the barriers to utilizing mental health services with various community stakeholders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This is a qualitative study wherein data was collected from youth, women, geriatric groups, community key leaders, and Anganwadi workers. The primary data were collected through focused group discussions and interview methods. The collected data were analyzed using thematic coding.

RESULTS:

A total of twenty-five factors have been identified in the study, which were categorized under eight themes. (a) Lack of awareness and misinformation on mental health, illness, and available services, (b) Perceived causes for mental illness, (c) Reasons for not approaching health professionals, (d) Treatment adherence-related issues, (e) No multidisciplinary team in private hospitals and lack of involvement in government sector (f) Manpower issues, (g) Quality of service issues and building confidence among community people, and (h) Belief system and stigma.

CONCLUSIONS:

Inadequate mental health services, lack of awareness of mental health, and illness are still persist. The District Mental Health Program and other service providers need to reach communities, especially in remote areas. Periodical evaluation should be carried out to improve the utilization of mental health services.
Assessing vaccine hesitancy among health-care workers in Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Shah Naveed Nazir , Khursheed Syed Quibtiya , Khan Zaid , Reagu Shuja , Alabdulla Majid , Haq Inaamul , Dar Shabir Ahmad , Hamza Adnan , Dar Khurshid Ahmad , Farooq Syed Suraiya , Datta Bikram Singh
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The World Health Organization declared vaccine hesitancy as one of the planet's top 10 global health threats in 2019. With the rollout of the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) vaccines, a survey was conducted to find out the hesitancy and the apprehensions that come along with taking COVID-19 vaccines among health-care workers (HCWs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was an online cross-sectional survey which was developed and shared through social media platforms among the HCWs of Kashmir. The survey captured demographic data and used a validated hesitancy measurement tool from January 2021 to February 2021. The data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression using Stata 15 (Stata Corp. 2017. Stata Statistical Software: Release 15. College Station, TX: Stata Corp LLC).

RESULTS:

Willingness to take the COVID-19 vaccine when available was seen in 67.7% of the HCWs. Overall, 9.59% of respondents reported unwillingness to receive a vaccine for COVID-19, while 22.7% were unsure. The most commonly cited reason for willingness to get vaccinated was an understanding of the disease and vaccination, as reported by 81.5%. Being single was significantly related to an increased risk of vaccine hesitancy (adjusted odds ratio = 5.27, 95% confidence interval: 2.07–13.40). Among vaccine attitudes, concerns about the safety of the vaccine, unforeseen problems in children, and possible unknown future adverse effects of the vaccine were the most important determinants of unwillingness.

CONCLUSIONS:

A significant proportion of the HCWs showed vaccine hesitancy to the COVID-19 vaccine. Hesitancy attitudes were almost always driven by concern around the vaccine safety. States and health-care authorities need to recognize the massive trust deficit around the Covid-19 vaccine and use the popular media used by people to share credible and reliable information.
Comparison of two new educational techniques on knowledge of nurses about cerebrovascular accident nursing care in emergency department
Authors: Dehghan Zahra , Alimohammadi Nasrollah , Mohamadirizi Shahla
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

One of the important challenges faced by health-care system is to raise the level of knowledge of nurses about cerebrovascular accident (CVA) nursing care in the emergency department. Therefore, the aim of this study was comparison of two new educational techniques (noninteractive multimedia learning and workshop) on knowledge of nurses about CVA nursing care in the emergency department.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This experimental study was conducted with a two-group design. Sixty-four eligible nurses working in the emergency department in selected hospitals affiliated to Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran, were selected as the study participants. Nurses were randomly assigned into two groups of noninteractive multimedia (n = 32) and workshop (n = 32) using random number table. The data-gathering tools including a demographic questionnaire (6 items) and knowledge questionnaire (24 items) were completed before and 2 weeks after the intervention in both the groups. Data were analyzed using SPSS 18 and descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and analytical statistics (ANOVA, independent t-test, and paired t-test). The level of statistical significance was P ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS:

The result shows that independent t-test showed that there was not a significant difference between the mean total scores of nurses’ knowledge before intervention in the two groups (P > 0/05). Furthermore, the results of paired t-test showed a significant difference in the knowledge score 2 weeks after compared to before the education in both the groups (P < 0.005). In addition, the results of independent t-test showed a significant difference in the knowledge score 2 weeks after the intervention in the two groups (P < 0.005). The average knowledge score in the workshop group was significantly higher than in noninteractive multimedia learning group.

CONCLUSION:

According to the result, new educational techniques such as noninteractive multimedia learning and workshop could improve knowledge of nurses about CVA nursing care in the emergency department.
Comparison of conjunctival swabs and blood samples in dogs for molecular and serological detection of Leishmania infantum infection in Colombia
Authors: Mejía-Chimá Wilmer A , Hernández-Vera Samuel D , Pérez-Vargas Oscar Y , Rivero Rodriguez Matilde E , Paternina Luis E , Bejarano Eduar E
Published: February 2024

Background & objectives:

Surveillance of canine leishmaniasis in Colombia is restricted to the appearance of visceral leishmaniasis cases in humans, and is mainly performed by serological tests. This requires blood sampling by veterinarians or technicians according to Colombian laws. The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of conjunctival swabs in the molecular detection of Leishmania in dogs from the municipality of Ovejas, Sucre.

Methods:

The present study was cross-sectional and descriptive. The collection source of samples and information was primary. Blood samples and conjunctival swabs from 121 dogs were analysed by PCR-ITS1 to detect Leishmania spp. Positive samples were used to amplify a conserved region of the Leishmania infantum kinetoplast minicircle. Performance of both sample types was calculated by proportion of positive samples of each type and the degree of agreement between them was determined by Cohen’s kappa (κ) agreement index.

Results:

Leishmania infection was detected in 17.4% (21/121) of blood samples and in 16.5% (20/121) of conjunctival swabs. In total, 28.1% (34/121) of the canines were infected, of which 11.8% (4/34) were infected with L. infantum in the conjunctival swabs and 5.9 % (2/34) in the blood samples. The agreement between blood and conjunctiva was medium (κ = 0.207) by PCR-ITS1 amplification.

Interpretation & conclusion:

The use of conjunctival swab as a non-invasive sample could be used as an alternative method for surveillance of canine leishmaniasis.
Motorist Vestibular Disorientation Syndrome
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar , Singh Vasudha
Published: February 2024

The normal vestibular system may be adversely affected by environmental challenges. A disordered vestibular system lends susceptibility even to quotidian environmental experiences as the suffered becomes dependent on potentially misleading nonvestibular stimuli. Equilibrium is the ability of an individual to maintain posture as well as spatial orientation at rest and during movement. Vision, proprioception, and vestibular system are important components for making equilibrium of the body at rest and movement. Driving is a complex task for a motorist where a driver or passenger faces a dynamic environment of modern highways, bends, turns, and bridges. The vestibular system plays a vital role in the spatial navigation and orientation of motorists during driving. Patients of motorist vestibular disorientation syndrome (MVDS) manifest multiple morbid symptoms, which are often a challenge to modern vehicle drivers or passengers. MVDS can also occur secondary to other vestibular disorders such as vestibular migraine, persistent postural perceptual dizziness, and visual vertigo. MVDS is a lesser-known clinical entity among clinicians. Difficulty driving may be a real-world manifestation of impaired spatial cognition associated with vestibular loss. There is scarce knowledge about this disorder in the medical literature. Here, this review article intends to document the etiopathology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of MVDS. This review article discusses the epidemiology, putative mechanisms, clinical presentations, triggering factors, diagnosis, and treatment of MVDS.
A study on knowledge, attitude, and practices toward ophthalmic emergencies among fresh medical graduates in India
Authors: Dixitha V. , Babu Mahesh , Sabhahit Shruti Vinod
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and estimate the knowledge, attitude, and practices of Indian fresh medical graduates with respect to ophthalmic emergencies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 1300 participants who had completed compulsory rotatory residential internship with the help of a questionnaire distributed through social platforms. The Chi-square and Pearson’s coefficient relation tests were used. Statistical analysis was done using IBM SPSS. P <0.05 was taken as the level of statistical significance.

RESULTS:

Good knowledge proportionately corresponded to a good attitude with statistical significance (P = 0.000). Participants with good practice also had a good attitude with significance (P = 0.001). Good knowledge participants who managed ophthalmic emergencies were statistically significant than that of participants with poor knowledge and managed ophthalmic emergencies, 15.72%. (χ
2 = 16.653, P = 0.000). Attitude toward confidence in the management of ophthalmic emergencies and their willingness in undergoing training was significant (χ
2 = 43.8, P = 0.000).

CONCLUSION:

Educating and training fresh medical graduates can help in the management and mitigation of ophthalmic emergencies to reduce ocular morbidity and prevent blindness to a greater degree.
Refractive error and abnormal stereopsis association with road traffic accidents in Saudi Arabian truck drivers
Authors: Challa Naveen K. , Alrasheed Saif H.
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE:

To investigate the visual functions of truck drivers of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in the region of Qassim and Dammam and to see if is there any association between these visual functions and self-reported road traffic accidents (RTA).

METHODS:

It is a cross-sectional, descriptive study. LogMAR visual acuity, refractive error, color vision, stereopsis, and confrontation visual fields were measured in 300 truck drivers in the Qassim and Dammam regions of KSA. Driving-related history and incidence of RTA from the past 3 years, systemic history, and general eye compliance history were collected through a self-reporting questionnaire.

RESULTS:

Among 300 truck drivers examined, 54 (18.4%) subjects have a refractive error, 14 (4.7%) subjects have color vision deficiency, 37 (12.2%) subjects have abnormal stereo acuity, and none of them have confrontation visual field defect. RTA was reported in 25 (8.3%) subjects. The current study has found RTA is significantly associated with refractive error (P = 0.01) and abnormal stereopsis (P < 0.01). Systemic history revealed that 11% of the subjects had diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSION:

The current study is the first to report on the visual functions of KSA truck drivers. Hence, the current study has found a significant association between visual functions and RTA among truck drivers, we recommend a comprehensive examination need to be part of issuing driver’s licenses in KSA. More studies with larger samples from different regions of KSA are needed to extrapolate these findings.
A Survey on Impact of Internet of Medical Things Against Diabetic Foot Ulcer
Authors: Athi Vaishnavi R. , Jegathesh P , Jayasheela M , Mahalakshmi K
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION: In this study, we explore the intricate domain of Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFU) through the development of a comprehensive framework that encompasses diverse operational scenarios. The focus lies on the identification and classification assessment of diabetic foot ulcers, the implementation of smart health management strategies, and the collection, analysis, and intelligent interpretation of data related to diabetic foot ulcers. The framework introduces an innovative approach to predicting diabetic foot ulcers and their key characteristics, offering a technical solution for forecasting. The exploration delves into various computational strategies designed for intelligent health analysis tailored to patients with diabetic foot ulcers.
OBJECTIVES: The primary objective of this paper is to present a technical solution for forecasting diabetic foot ulcers, utilizing computational strategies for intelligent health analysis.
METHODS: Techniques derived from social network analysis are employed to conduct this research, focusing on diverse computational strategies geared towards intelligent health analysis for patients with diabetic foot ulcers. The study highlights methodologies addressing the unique challenges posed by diabetic foot ulcers, with a central emphasis on the integration of Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) in prediction strategies.
RESULTS: The main results of this paper include the proposal of IoMT-based computing strategies covering the entire spectrum of DFU analysis, such as localization, classification assessment, intelligent health management, and detection. The study also acknowledges the challenges faced by previous research, including low classification rates and elevated false alarm rates, and proposes automatic recognition approaches leveraging advanced machine learning techniques to enhance accuracy and efficacy.
CONCLUSION: The proposed IoMT-based computing strategies present a significant advancement in addressing the challenges associated with predicting diabetic foot ulcers. The integration of advanced machine learning techniques demonstrates promise in improving accuracy and efficiency in diabetic foot ulcer localization, marking a positive stride towards overcoming existing limitations in previous research.