bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neglected and non-consented care during childbirth in public health facilities in Central Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors: Berhe Elsa Tesfa , Gesesew Hailay Abrha , Ward Paul R. , Gebremeskel Teferi Gebru
Published: May 2022

Background

The present study aimed to assess the magnitude and factors associated with neglected and non-consented care during childbirth in public health facilities in Central Tigray, Ethiopia.

Methods

A health facility-based cross-sectional survey supplemented by a qualitative study was conducted from April to May 2020 among women giving birth. We included 415 participants and recruited via a systematic random sampling technique. To collect the data, a pre-tested, face-to-face exit interview using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire was used. Neglected and non-consented care and its outcomes (yes and no) were the dependent variables, and Socio-demographic data such as (age, educational level, region, and income), and other variables associated with compassionate and respective maternity care were the independent variables. We applied bivariate and multivariate logistic regression to determine predictors for non-consented and non-confidential care components of disrespect or abuse. The in-depth interviews were analyzed using content analysis.

Results

Among the participants, 82.4% and 78.6% had neglected care and non-consented care among women giving birth respectively. No formal education level (AOR: 0.37, 95%, CI (0.18–0.78)) and primary education level (AOR: 0.18, 95%, CI (0.05–0.57))., mode of delivery (AOR 3.79, 95% CI 1.42–10.09), sex of skilled healthcare providers (AOR: 0.56, 95%, CI (0.34–0.93)), number of deliveries in a health Centre (AOR: 1.89, 95% CI (1.03–3.47)) predicted non-consented care, and history ANC (AOR: 8.10, 95% CI (1.33–49.51)), and federal government employee (AOR: 0.24, 95% CI (0.07–0.78)) predicted neglected care during childbirth. In-depth interview result shows the mode of delivery and sex of healthcare providers were factor associated with non-consented care and women's stay at health facilities were factor associated with neglected care.

Conclusion

The level of neglected and non-consented care during delivery was high reflecting substantial mistreatment. Educational level, mode of delivery, sex of skilled healthcare providers, and the number of deliveries in a health Centre were associated with non-consented care, and history ANC and Federal Government employees were associated with neglected care during childbirth. These findings imply the urgent needs or intervention including strengthening of awareness of both patients and healthcare providers on patients' rights and responsibilities and training service providers in patient-centered care and interpersonal communication and relationships to minimize mistreatment.
A review of the prevalence, trends, and determinants of coexisting forms of malnutrition in neonates, infants, and children
Authors: Khaliq Asif , Wraith Darren , Nambiar Smita , Miller Yvette
Published: May 2022

Objective

Coexisting Forms of Malnutrition (CFM) refers to the presence of more than one type of nutritional disorder in an individual. Worldwide, CFM affects more than half of all malnourished children, and compared to standalone forms of malnutrition, CFM is associated with a higher risk of illness and death. This review examined published literature for assessing the prevalence, trends, and determinants of CFM in neonates, infants, and children.

Methods

A review of community-based observational studies was conducted. Seven databases, (CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were used in December-2021 to retrieve literature. Google, Google Scholar and TROVE were used to search for grey literature. Key stakeholders were also contacted for unpublished documents. Studies measuring the prevalence, and/or trends, and/or determinants of CFM presenting in individuals were included. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools for prevalence and longitudinal studies.

Results

The search retrieved 14,207 articles, of which 24 were included in this review. The prevalence of CFM varied by geographical area and specific types. In children under 5 years, the coexistence of stunting with overweight/obesity ranged from 0.8% in the United States to over 10% in Ukraine and Syria, while the prevalence of coexisting wasting with stunting ranged from 0.1% in most of the South American countries to 9.2% in Niger. A decrease in CFM prevalence was observed in all countries, except Indonesia. Studies in China and Indonesia showed a positive association between rurality of residence and coexisting stunting with overweight/obesity. Evidence for other risk and protective factors for CFM is too minimal or conflicting to be conclusive.

Conclusion

Evidence regarding the prevalence, determinants and trends for CFM is scarce. Apart from the coexistence of stunting with overweight/obesity, the determinants of other types of CFM are unclear. CFM in any form results in an increased risk of health adversities which can be different from comparable standalone forms, thus, there is an urgent need to explore the determinants and distribution of different types of CFM.
Use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients: a 2020 THESIS questionnaire survey of members of the Czech Society of Endocrinology
Authors: Jiskra Jan , Paleček Jan , Attanasio Roberto , Hegedüs Laszlo , Nagy Endre V. , Papini Enrico , Perros Petros , Negro Roberto , Kršek Michal
Published: May 2022

Background

Inconsistencies in the management of hypothyroidism have been reported among endocrinologists in different European countries. Aim of this study was to explore Czech endocrinologists’ use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients.

Methods

We used a web-based survey containing 32 questions regarding the use of thyroid hormones. Four-hundred thirty-two members of the Czech Society of Endocrinology received an e-mail invitation to participate in the survey.

Results

We received and analysed 157 responses (112 females and 45 males) from the 432 members (36.3%). According to 99.4% of the respondents, levothyroxine (LT4) is the primary drug of choice for the treatment of hypothyroidism. Liothyronine (LT3) was used in clinical practice by 29.9% of responders. According to 90.5% of respondents, thyroid hormones may be indicated in biochemically euthyroid patients. Female physicians prescribe thyroid hormones in euthyroid infertile women with high antibody levels more frequently than male physicians (P = 0.003). Most Czech endocrinologists (76.4%) consider combined therapy with LT4 and LT3 in various clinical scenarios, but only 1 of 29 hypothyroid physicians (3.5%) would recommend it to their patients, and only 4 out of 128 respondents (3.1%) would consider LT3 or desiccated thyroid for themselves, if diagnosed with hypothyroidism.

Conclusion

LT4 is the primary thyroid hormone used in the Czech Republic for treatment of hypothyroidism. At variance with thyroid guideline recommendations, Czech endocrinologists are quite liberal when prescribing thyroid hormones to euthyroid patients and in the use of LT4/LT3 combination treatment for hypothyroid patients with persisting symptoms.
Inpatient generalist palliative care during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic – experiences, challenges and potential solutions from the perspective of health care workers
Authors: Schallenburger Manuela , Reuters Marie Christine , Schwartz Jacqueline , Fischer Marius , Roch Carmen , Werner Liane , Bausewein Claudia , Simon Steffen T. , van Oorschot Birgitt , Neukirchen Martin
Published: May 2022

Background

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has presented major challenges to the health system. Despite high acute case numbers, patients without Covid-19 still need to be cared for. Due to the severity of the disease and a possible stressful overall situation, patients with palliative care needs also require comprehensive care during pandemic times. In addition to specialized palliative care facilities, this also takes place in non palliative care wards. In order to ensure this general palliative care also in pandemic times, the experience of the staff should be used. The aim of this paper is to examine challenges and possible solutions for general palliative care inpatients in relation to the care of seriously ill and dying patients and their relatives.

Methods

Qualitative semi-structured focus groups were conducted online for the study. Participants were staff from intensive care or isolation wards or from units where vulnerable patients (e.g. with cognitive impairment) are cared for. The focus groups were recorded and subsequently transcribed. The data material was analysed with the content structuring content analysis according to Kuckartz.

Results

Five focus groups with four to eight health care professionals with various backgrounds were conducted. Fifteen main categories with two to eight subcategories were identified. Based on frequency and the importance expressed by the focus groups, six categories were extracted as central aspects: visiting regulations, communication with relatives, hygiene measures, cooperation, determination of the patients will and the possibility to say good bye.

Conclusion

The pandemic situation produced several challenges needing specific solutions in order to manage the care of seriously ill and dying patients. Especially visiting needs regulation to prevent social isolation and dying alone. Finding alternative communication ways as well as interprofessional and interdisciplinary cooperation is a precondition for individualised care of seriously ill and dying patients and their relatives. Measures preventing infections should be transparently communicated in hospitals.
Dynamic Bayesian network for predicting physiological changes, organ dysfunctions and mortality risk in critical trauma patients
Authors: Chen Qi , Tang Bihan , Song Jiaqi , Jiang Ying , Zhao Xinxin , Ruan Yiming , Zhao Fangjie , Wu Guosheng , Chen Tao , He Jia
Published: May 2022

Background

Critical trauma patients are particularly prone to increased mortality risk; hence, an accurate prediction of their conditions enables early identification of patients' mortality status. Thus, we aimed to develop and validate a real-time prediction model for physiological changes, organ dysfunctions and mortality risk in critical trauma patients.

Methods

We used Dynamic Bayesian Networks (DBNs) to model complicated relationships of physiological variables across time slices, accessing data of trauma patients from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care database (MIMIC-III) (n = 2915) and validated with patients' data from ICU admissions at the Changhai Hospital (ICU-CH) (n = 1909). The DBN model's evaluation included the predictive ability of physiological changes, organ dysfunctions and mortality risk.

Results

Our DBN model included two static variables (age and sex) and 18 dynamic physiological variables. The differences in ratios between the real values and the 24- and 48-h predicted values of most physiological variables were within 5% in the two datasets. The accuracy of our DBN model for predicting renal, hepatic, cardiovascular and hematologic dysfunctions was more than 0.8.The calculated area under the curve (AUC) from receiver operating characteristic curves and 95% confidence interval for predicting the 24- and 48-h mortality risk were 0.977 (0.967–0.988) and 0.958 (0.945–0.971) in the MIMIC-III and 0.967 (0.947–0.987) and 0.946 (0.925–0.967) in ICU-CH.

Conclusions

A DBN is a promising method for predicting medical temporal data such as trauma patients' mortality risk, demonstrated by high AUC scores and validation by a real-life ICU scenario; thus, our DBN prediction model can be used as a real-time tool to predict physiological changes, organ dysfunctions and mortality risk during ICU admissions.
Implementation science in adolescent healthcare research: an integrative review
Authors: Zolfaghari Elham , Armaghanian Natasha , Waller Daniel , Medlow Sharon , Hobbs Annabelle , Perry Lin , Nguyen Katie , Steinbeck Katharine
Published: May 2022

Background

Multiple theories, models and frameworks have been developed to assist implementation of evidence-based practice. However, to date there has been no review of implementation literature specific to adolescent healthcare. This integrative review therefore aimed to determine what implementation science theories, models and frameworks have been applied, what elements of these frameworks have been identified as influential in promoting the implementation and sustainability of service intervention, and to what extent, in what capacity and at what time points has the contribution of adolescent consumer perspectives on evidence implementation been considered. 

Methods

An integrative design was used and reported based on a modified form of the PRISMA (2020) checklist. Seven databases were searched for English language primary research which included any implementation science theory, model or framework developed for/with adolescents or applied in relation to adolescent healthcare services within the past 10 years. Content and thematic analysis were applied with the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) used to frame analysis of the barriers and facilitators to effective implementation of evidence-informed interventions within youth health settings.

Results

From 8717 citations, 13 papers reporting 12 studies were retained. Nine different implementation science theories, frameworks or approaches were applied; six of 12 studies used the CFIR, solely or with other models. All CFIR domains were represented as facilitators and barriers for implementation in included studies. However, there was little or no inclusion of adolescents in the development or review of these initiatives. Only three mentioned youth input, occurring in the pre-implementation or implementation stages.

Conclusions

The few studies found for this review highlight the internationally under-developed nature of this topic. Flagging the importance of the unique characteristics of this particular age group, and of the interventions and strategies to target it, the minimal input of adolescent consumers is cause for concern. Further research is clearly needed and must ensure that youth consumers are engaged from the start and consistently throughout; that their voice is prioritised and not tokenistic; that their contribution is taken seriously. Only then will age-appropriate evidence implementation enable innovations in youth health services to achieve the evidence-based outcomes they offer.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO 2020 CRD42020201142 https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=201142
Relationship of cumulative exposure to the triglyceride-glucose index with ischemic stroke: a 9-year prospective study in the Kailuan cohort
Authors: Wang Xianxuan , Feng Baoyu , Huang Zegui , Cai Zefeng , Yu Xinran , Chen Zekai , Cai Zhiwei , Chen Guanzhi , Wu Shouling , Chen Youren
Published: May 2022

Background

A single measurement of the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, a simple and reliable surrogate marker of insulin resistance, is associated with ischemic stroke. However, evidence for an effect of a long-term elevation in TyG index on ischemic stroke is limited. Therefore, we evaluated the relationship between cumulative TyG index exposure and the risk of ischemic stroke.

Methods

A total of 54,098 participants in the Kailuan study who had not experienced ischemic stroke underwent three measurements of fasting blood glucose and triglycerides during 2006–2007, 2008–2009, and 2010–2011. Cumulative exposure to TyG index was calculated as the weighted sum of the mean TyG index value for each time interval (value × time). Participants were placed into four groups according to the quartile of the weighted mean: Q1 group, < 32.01; Q2 group, 32.01–34.45; Q3 group, 34.45–37.47; and Q4 group, ≥ 37.47. Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the relationships of the cumulative TyG index with incident ischemic stroke by calculating hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

Results

There were 2083 incident ischemic stroke events over the 9 years of follow-up. The risk of ischemic stroke increased with the quartile of cumulative TyG index. After adjustment for multiple potential confounders, participants in groups Q4, Q3, and Q2 had significantly higher risks of ischemic stroke, with HRs (95% CIs) of 1.30 (1.12–1.52), 1.26 (1.09–1.45), and 1.09 (0.94–1.27), respectively (Ptrend < 0.05), compared with the Q1 group. The longer duration of high TyG index exposure was significantly associated with increased ischemic stroke.

Conclusions

High cumulative TyG index is associated with a higher risk of ischemic stroke. This finding implies that monitoring and the maintenance of an appropriate TyG index may be useful for the prevention of ischemic stroke.
Fluttering cord-like thrombus in the aortic arch
Authors: Kuroda Yuki , Marui Akira , Arai Yoshio , Nagasawa Atsushi , Tsumaru Shinichi , Arakaki Ryoko , Iida Jun , Wada Yuki , Soga Yoshiharu
Published: May 2022

Background

The optimal treatment for aortic thrombus remains to be determined, but surgical treatment is indicated when there is a risk for thromboembolism.

Case presentation

A 47-year-old male presented with weakness in his left arm upon awakening. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography and transesophageal echocardiography revealed a mobile pedunculated object suggestive of a thrombus arising from the ascending aorta and extending to the left common carotid artery. It was removed under hypothermic circulatory arrest and direct cannulation of the left carotid artery to avoid carotid thromboembolism. Histopathological examination revealed that the object was a thrombus. The patient had an uneventful postoperative course and was discharged 9 days after surgery.

Conclusion

When a thrombus in the aortic arch extends to the neck arteries, direct cannulation of the neck arteries with selective cerebral perfusion via cervical incision is a useful technique.
Single-incision port robot-assisted surgery for thymic carcinoid tumor resection
Authors: Shidei Hiroaki , Mitsuboshi Shota , Yamamoto Tomoko , Kanzaki Masato
Published: May 2022

Background

Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) is divided into MEN type 1 (MEN-1) and MEN type 2 (MEN-2). MEN-1 may be associated with thymic carcinoid tumors. We present a case of the surgical removal of a thymic carcinoid associated with MEN-1 via a single-incision port RATS.

Case presentation

A 39-year-old male patient with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN-1) who had an anterior mediastinal mass was referred to our hospital. The patient had undergone total parathyroidectomy and auto-transplantation of a partial parathyroid for hyperparathyroidism 6 years ago. Chest computed tomography revealed an isolated anterior mediastinal mass on the thymic gland with a maximum diameter measuring 22 mm. Thymic carcinoid tumor is classified as MEN-1 and has a poor prognosis, so we decided to remove the tumor. Single-incision port RATS was performed, and thymic carcinoid was confirmed in pathology.

Conclusions

This report demonstrates that thymic carcinoid tumor removal is feasible and easy to perform via single-incision port RATS.
Prevalence of active trachoma and associated factors among school age children in Debre Tabor Town, Northwest Ethiopia, 2019: a community based cross-sectional study
Authors: Shimelash Alebachew , Alemayehu Mekuriaw , Dagne Henok , Mihiretie Getenet , Lamore Yonas , Tegegne Eniyew , Kumlachew Lake
Published: May 2022

Background

Trachoma is an infectious eye disease caused by Chlamydial trachomatis. It is a major health problem in poor nations, notably in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite the severity of the problem, there was a scarcity of data on trachoma prevalence and associated factors among school-aged children in Debre Tabor town following SAFE and MDA.

Objectives

The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of active trachoma and its associated factors among school-aged children in Debre Tabor, Northwest Ethiopia, in 2019.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was used among school-aged children. Structured interview questionnaires, an observational checklist, and a physical examination were used to collect data from study participants who were chosen using a systematic random sampling procedure. IBM SPSS 20 was used to enter data, which was then transferred to IBM SPSS 20 for bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Result

A total of 394 children aged 5–15 had been screened and took part in the study, with 9.9% (95% CI: 6.9, 12.7) testing positive for active trachoma. Having an unimproved larine type (AOR = 5.18; 95%CI: 1.96, 13.69), improper solid waste disposal (AOR = 3.026; 95%CI: 1.17, 7.8), family size greater than four (AOR = 3.4; 95%CI: 1.22, 9.49), not using soap for face washing (AOR = 4.48; 95%CI: 1.46, 13.72) and an unclean face of the child during examination (AOR = 23.93; 95%CI: 8.25, 69.38) were found to be significant predictors of active trachoma.

Conclusion

Active trachoma among school-age children was high compared to the WHO’s definition of trachoma as a public health problem. A family size of four, poor solid waste management, an unimproved type of latrine, an unclean child's face, and not using soap when washing one's face were all significant predictors of active trachoma. Promotion of behavioral determinants through health education programs like keeping facial cleanliness by washing their child’s face with soap, managing solid waste properly, and installing improved latrines to reduce active trachoma needs to be in place.
Comparison of the predictive ability of clinical frailty scale and hospital frailty risk score to determine long-term survival in critically ill patients: a multicentre retrospective cohort study
Authors: Subramaniam Ashwin , Ueno Ryo , Tiruvoipati Ravindranath , Srikanth Velandai , Bailey Michael , Pilcher David
Published: May 2022

Background

The Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) is the most commonly used frailty measure in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. The hospital frailty risk score (HFRS) was recently proposed for the quantification of frailty. We aimed to compare the HFRS with the CFS in critically ill patients in predicting long-term survival up to one year following ICU admission.

Methods

In this retrospective multicentre cohort study from 16 public ICUs in the state of Victoria, Australia between 1st January 2017 and 30th June 2018, ICU admission episodes listed in the Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Society Adult Patient Database registry with a documented CFS, which had been linked with the Victorian Admitted Episode Dataset and the Victorian Death Index were examined. The HFRS was calculated for each patient using the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) codes that represented pre-existing conditions at the time of index hospital admission. Descriptive methods, Cox proportional hazards and area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) were used to investigate the association between each frailty score and long-term survival up to 1 year, after adjusting for confounders including sex and baseline severity of illness on admission to ICU (Australia New Zealand risk-of-death, ANZROD).

Results

7001 ICU patients with both frailty measures were analysed. The overall median (IQR) age was 63.7 (49.1–74.0) years; 59.5% (n = 4166) were male; the median (IQR) APACHE II score 14 (10–20). Almost half (46.7%, n = 3266) were mechanically ventilated. The hospital mortality was 9.5% (n = 642) and 1-year mortality was 14.4% (n = 1005). HFRS correlated weakly with CFS (Spearman’s rho 0.13 (95% CI 0.10–0.15) and had a poor agreement (kappa = 0.12, 95% CI 0.10–0.15). Both frailty measures predicted 1-year survival after adjusting for confounders, CFS (HR 1.26, 95% CI 1.21–1.31) and HFRS (HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.02–1.15). The CFS had better discrimination of 1-year mortality than HFRS (AUROC 0.66 vs 0.63 p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Both HFRS and CFS independently predicted up to 1-year survival following an ICU admission with moderate discrimination. The CFS was a better predictor of 1-year survival than the HFRS.
Continuous controlled cone metric-type spaces over real Banach algebras and fixed-point results
Authors: Ullah Wahid , Işık Hüseyin , Alam Nouman , Park Choonkil , Lee Jung Rye
Published: May 2022

In this article, we introduce a new geometrical structure that is the hybrid of a cone metric space over Banach algebra and a controlled metric-type space. We introduce a new metric space and prove analogs of Banach-, Kannan- and Reich-type fixed-point theorems. We also furnish various concrete examples to establish the validity of our results. The obtained results generalize many well-known results in the literature.
Validation of the factor structure and psychometric characteristics of the Arabic adaptation of the sense of coherence SOC-13 scale: a confirmatory factor analysis
Authors: Alharbi Fatimah Sayer , Aljemaiah Abdulaziz I. , Osman Mugtaba
Published: May 2022

Background

The sense of coherence is as focused on one’s awareness of the level of pervasive, enduring, and dynamic feelings. Stronger sense of coherence leads to better physical and mental health and promotes recovery from life stressors. Sense of coherence-13 (SOC-13) is a 13-item valid and reliable measure for individual’s healthy living. However, the factor structure of SOC-13 was criticized in several cultures and languages. The current study was set to explore the factor structure of an Arabic adaptation for SOC-13.

Methods

This cross-sectional study of the SOC-13 included (n = 1235) Arabic speaking individuals. We used confirmatory factor analysis to contrast unidimensional, bidimensional, three-dimensional, and four-dimensional factor structure for the SOC-13. We carried out measurement invariance analysis across age and gender groups to examine the stability of fit indices among participants’ subgroups.

Results

We found the reliability coefficient to be 0.82, indicative of good internal consistency. The three-factor structure, after modification of items 1, 2, and 3 was the best-fitting factor model. However, measurement invariance was indicative of discrepancy for the three-factor model between genders and age classes. The mean overall SOC-13 total score in our sample was 52.1 (SD = 16.1).

Conclusions

The SOC-13 showed acceptable psychometric properties in terms of internal consistency and a modified three-factor structure in its Arabic version. However, the reliability of the three underlying dimensions was sub-optimum. Moreover, the three-factor structure requires modification by either removing the first three problematic items or allowing the residuals to correlate.
The comparative study of color doppler flow imaging, superb microvascular imaging, contrast-enhanced ultrasound micro flow imaging in blood flow analysis of solid renal mass
Authors: Mao Yiran , Mu Jie , Zhao Jing , Yang Fan , Zhao Lihui
Published: May 2022

Purposes

To evaluate the value of Color Doppler Flow Imaging (CDFI), Superb Microvascular Imaging (SMI) and Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound Microflow Imaging (MFI) in display the microvascular blood flow signals in renal solid lesions.

Methods

142 patients with 144 renal masses were examined by CDFI, SMI and MFI simultaneously. We compared the difference of blood flow grading and vascular architecture based on CDFI, SMI and MFI.

Results

The blood flow signals detection rates of CDFI, SMI and MFI were 78.5% (113/144), 88.9% (128/144) and 93.8% (135/144), respectively. Concentrated on blood flow grading, The coincidence rates of CDFI and SMI were 64.58% (93/144) and 81.25% (117/144) referring to MFI, respectively. Blood flow grade 2–3 in CDFI is significantly lower than SMI(x2 = 5.557, P = 0.018) and MFI (x2 = 10.165, P = 0.001). Whereas there was no significant difference between SMI and MFI (x2 = 2.372, P = 0.499). Concentrated on vascular architecture, the coincidence rates of CDFI and SMI were 56.25% (81/144) and 75.69% (109/144) referring to MFI, respectively. Vascular architecture type IV and V in CDFI was significantly lower than SMI (x2 = 18.217, P < 0.001) and MFI (x2 = 29.518, P < 0.001). Whereas there was no significant difference between SMI and MFI (x2 = 3.048, P = 0.550). The sensitivity and specificity of CDFI, SMI and MFI in the diagnosis of renal mass were 61.29% and 90.20%, 79.57% and 88.24%, 88.17% and 84.31% respectively. The areas under the ROC curve of the three were 0.757, 0.839 and 0.862, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between CDFI and MFI (Z = 3.687, P = 0.0002), while there was no statistically significant difference between SMI and MFI (Z = 1.167, P = 0.2431).

Conclusion

SMI and MFI are superior to CDFI in showing blood flow signals in renal solid masses, and it can perform blood flow and vascular architecture more accurately.

Advances in knowledge

SMI is similar to MFI in its ability to display fine vessels and diagnostic efficiency, and has application value in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of renal solid masses.
Information presentation method for teleoperated robots to support the multifaceted understanding of fire sites
Authors: Tamura Yoshihiro , Amano Hisanori , Ota Jun
Published: May 2022

Although the overall number of fires is decreasing, the number of special fires as buildings become larger, taller, and deeper and fires and spills in hazardous materials facilities such as petroleum complexes is on the rise and ensuring the safety of firefighters has become a problem. The use of teleoperated firefighting robots is expected to be a solution to this problem. It is important to be able to operate the robot well, recognize the environment, and make decisions on what actions to take to perform the firefighting more effectively. This is closely related to the design of human machine interface (HMI) for teleoperated robots, but much of the research on HMI for teleoperated robots is concerned with how to operate the robot and how to present the information that is needed for operation. In addition, as the overall number of fires is decreasing, young firefighters' (novices’) lack of experience in firefighting has become a problem. Therefore, teleoperated firefighting robots are required to have the HMI that enables supports to recognize the environment and make decisions in firefighting. This study presents an information presentation method that is based on the control mode in the contextual control model (COCOM) to ensure that novices can have multifaceted perspectives during reconnaissance and attenuation like experienced firefighters (experts). The effectiveness of this method is confirmed by 12 firefighters. As a result, this study confirms that the information presentation is designed considering the control mode in the COCOM, and it improves the score from multiple perspectives. The findings of this study will contribute to the future development of teleoperated firefighting robots.
3D printed anthropomorphic left ventricular myocardial phantom for nuclear medicine imaging applications
Authors: Kiss Janos , Balkay Laszlo , Kukuts Kornel , Miko Marton , Forgacs Attila , Trencsenyi Gyorgy , Krizsan Aron K.
Published: May 2022

Background

Anthropomorphic torso phantoms, including a cardiac insert, are frequently used to investigate the imaging performance of SPECT and PET systems. These phantom solutions are generally featuring a simple anatomical representation of the heart. 3D printing technology paves the way to create cardiac phantoms with more complex volume definition. This study aimed to describe how a fillable left ventricular myocardium (LVm) phantom can be manufactured using geometry extracted from a patient image.

Methods

The LVm of a healthy subject was segmented from 18F-FDG attenuation corrected PET image set. Two types of phantoms were created and 3D printed using polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) material: one representing the original healthy LVm, and the other mimicking myocardium with a perfusion defect. The accuracy of the LVm phantom production was investigated by high-resolution CT scanning of 3 identical replicas. 99mTc SPECT acquisitions using local cardiac protocol were performed, without additional scattering media (“in air” measurements) for both phantom types. Furthermore, the healthy LVm phantom was inserted in the commercially available DataSpectrum Anthropomorphic Torso Phantom (“in torso” measurement) and measured with hot background and hot liver insert.

Results

Phantoms were easy to fill without any air-bubbles or leakage, were found to be reproducible and fully compatible with the torso phantom. Seventeen segments polar map analysis of the "in air” measurements revealed that a significant deficit in the distribution appeared where it was expected. 59% of polar map segments had less than 5% deviation for the "in torso” and "in air” measurement comparison. Excluding the deficit area, neither comparison had more than a 12.4% deviation. All the three polar maps showed similar apex and apical region values for all configurations.

Conclusions

Fillable anthropomorphic 3D printed phantom of LVm can be produced with high precision and reproducibility. The 3D printed LVm phantoms were found to be suitable for SPECT image quality tests during different imaging scenarios. The flexibility of the 3D printing process presented in this study provides scalable and anthropomorphic image quality phantoms in nuclear cardiology imaging.
Feasibility of imaging synaptic density in the human spinal cord using [11C]UCB-J PET
Authors: Rossano Samantha , Toyonaga Takuya , Bini Jason , Nabulsi Nabeel , Ropchan Jim , Cai Zhengxin , Huang Yiyun , Carson Richard E.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Neuronal damage and synapse loss in the spinal cord (SC) have been implicated in spinal cord injury (SCI) and neurodegenerative disorders such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Current standards of diagnosis for SCI include CT or MRI imaging to evaluate injury severity. The current study explores the use of PET imaging with [11C]UCB-J, which targets the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A), in the human spinal cord, as a way to visualize synaptic density and integrity in vivo.

Results

First, simulations of baseline and blocking [11C]UCB-J HRRT scans were performed, based on SC dimensions and SV2A distribution to predict VT, VND, and VS values. Next, human baseline and blocking [11C]UCB-J HRRT images were used to estimate these values in the cervical SC (cSC). Simulation results had excellent agreement with observed values of VT, VND, and VS from the real human data, with baseline VT, VND, and VS of 3.07, 2.15, and 0.92 mL/cm3, respectively, with a BPND of 0.43. Lastly, we explored full SC imaging with whole-body images. Using automated SC regions of interest (ROIs) for the full SC, cSC, and thoracic SC (tSC), the distribution volume ratio (DVR) was estimated using the brain gray matter as a reference region to evaluate SC SV2A density relative to the brain. In full body imaging, DVR values of full SC, cSC, and tSC were 0.115, 0.145, and 0.112, respectively. Therefore, measured [11C]UCB-J uptake, and thus SV2A density, is much lower in the SC than in the brain.

Conclusions

The results presented here provide evidence for the feasibility of SV2A PET imaging in the human SC, however, specific binding of [11C]UCB-J is low. Ongoing and future work include further classification of SV2A distribution in the SC as well as exploring higher-affinity PET radioligands for SC imaging.
A case report of adenosquamous carcinoma of the esophagogastric junction
Authors: Fukai Harunari , Koide Naohiko , Yanagisawa Naoe , Koyama Yoshinori , Kitagawa Nami , Ogihara Yuu , Ohya Maki
Published: May 2022

Background

Many types of tumors can arise in the esophagogastric junction (EGJ). Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) arising from the esophageal epithelia, adenocarcinoma arising from the gastric mucosa, or Barrett’s esophageal mucosa are frequently observed in the EGJ. However, adenosquamous carcinoma (ASC) has been rarely observed in this area. We herein report a rare case of ASC of the EGJ.

Case presentation

An 81-year-old man visited our hospital complaining of dysphagia. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy detected an elevated tumor in the gastric cardia. Biopsy specimens taken from the tumor showed SCC. Computed tomography revealed a tumor located in the EGJ and node metastases surrounding the EGJ. The tumor was diagnosed as SCC, overhanging in the stomach, of the EGJ. The patient underwent a proximal gastrectomy with a lower esophagectomy and node dissection for the metastases surrounding the EGJ, and esophagogastrostomy in the lower mediastinum. Histopathologic examination showed the tumor consisted of SCC and adenocarcinoma. The adenocarcinoma consisted of nests scattered in the SCC. We observed adenocarcinoma component in 35% of the tumor and epithelial spread of SCC in the lower esophagus. Thus, we diagnosed the tumor as ASC of the EGJ. Eight metastatic nodes were dissected; both SCC and adenocarcinoma were observed in seven.

Conclusions

In the present case, SCC may be originated from the squamous epithelia of the lower esophagus and grew into the stomach, and the adenocarcinoma may have differentiated from SCC through the infiltration.
Psoriatic arthritis mutilans: a descriptive study from a Brazilian tertiary center
Authors: Cordeiro Rafael Alves , de Oliveira Jobson Lopes , Sampaio-Barros Percival Degrava , Goldenstein-Schainberg Claudia
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we sought to determine the prevalence of arthritis mutilans in a single cohort of Brazilian psoriatic arthritis patients followed at a tertiary university reference center. Our study demonstrated a high prevalence of arthritis mutilans associated to comorbidities and biologic therapy. In addition, our data suggest that axial involvement may be an intriguing aspect of psoriatic arthritis mutilans and that rheumatologists should be aware of axial disease, even if the phenotype is marked by peripheral joint severity.
16O + 16O cluster states and their fusion to 32S: A non-monotonic potential description
Authors: Basak A. K. , Merchant A. C. , Freer M. , Islam M. Sujan , Ramon Ragib Absar , Rahman M. Mizanur , Tariq A. S. B. , Uddin M. A. , Soylu A.
Published: May 2022

Non-monotonic (NM) nucleus-nucleus potential families rooted in the Pauli-compliant Energy Density Functional (EDF) theory and especially their behavior at higher energies have been investigated using experimental data for 16O + 16O elastic scattering in the range

. At

, the 16O + 16O NM potentials in a simple optical model (OM) are found to support five rotational bands of 16O + 16O bound and quasi-molecular states in 32S with the cluster global quantum numbers G = 24, 26, 28, 30 and 32. The lowest band in the experimental spectrum starting at

, and having

, 2+, 4+, 6+ and 8+, has been located for the first time. In the simple OM, the NM potentials are found to reproduce the experimental 16O + 16O fusion cross-sections in the energy range 12–31 MeV. The present work shows that both the 16O + 16O cluster bands and fusion cross-sections in the Coulomb barrier region can be reproduced using NM potentials.
Design, adaptation, and diffusion of an innovative tool to support contraceptive decision-making: Balanced Counseling Strategy Plus
Authors: Warren Charlotte E , McClair Tracy L , Kirk Karen R , Ndwiga Charity , Yam Eileen A
Published: May 2022

Contraceptive decision-making is highly complex, and family planning (FP) clients choose methods according to a host of personal, interpersonal, and context-specific considerations. These include concerns about side effects, confidence in their ability to adhere to daily or monthly use, efficacy of methods, partner support, and HIV vulnerability. FP decision support tools can support FP clients and providers to engage in a joint decision-making process to ensure clients make informed choices about contraception. For more than two decades, the Balanced Counseling Strategy (BCS) and Balanced Counseling Strategy Plus (BCS+) decision support tools have been used in lower- and middle-income countries, informed by implementation science research and iterative updates and refinements to reflect new developments in contraceptive technology and HIV prevention strategies. To inform the development and scale-up of future FP decision support tools, this article describes the development, evaluation, and proliferation of BCS and BCS+.
Ultrasound therapy in medical rehabilitation post-stroke patients
Authors: Samosiuk I. , Zubkova S. , Chuhraeva E. , Samosiuk N. , Zukow W.
Published: May 2022

The paper presents recommendations for the use of physical exercises and massage in the treatment and rehabilitation of patients withmuscular torticollis. Recommendations are intended for surgeons, doctors and exercise instructors with higher and secondary education, massagetherapists and paediatricians hospitals and clinics.
Modern data on embryogenesis and functional morphology of thymus (Literature review, part I)
Authors: Kupriianova L. , Ivanchenko S.
Published: May 2022

In the following article we have provided modern data on main stages of implementation, formation as well as stabilization of functional activity of thymus of the fetus on different stages of fetal development. Thus, we have analyzed specific features of gland’s location in case of children, adolescents and adults. We have described two main stages of the organ’s ontogenesis. In addition, histological features of the fetal thymus implemetation, starting with the 8th week of embryonic development were studied and provided below. The criteria of completion of the gland’s formation on the gestational term of 24 weeks were clearly emphasized. The stages of maturing of lymphocytes as well as appearance of the surface markers of the lymphocytes on them as well as division of the T-cells into subpopulations were described. The role of thymus in the sphere of formation of all types of the organism’s immune defence was explained. We have analyzed an endocrine function of the gland with providing the hormones, hormone-like substances, as well as extracts of the organ, which have their influence onto lymphoid tissue development  as well as play their leading role in the hormonal homeostasis of the child’s organism. The morphological features of the main structural components of the gland, as well as their functions in the thymus stabilization were disclosed. The nature of relations between structural components was clearly described. It has been proved also, that in case of full-term fetus, the thymus is a main lymphoid organ, which is structurally and functionally formed for the moment of birth. Moreover, under the conditions of the physiological pregnancy the lymphoid and epithelial components are sufficiently and harmoniously developed, and the thymocytes are differentiated and immunologically mature. Finally, we came up with the conclusion, that the pathology of pregnancy and childbirth can lead to the impaired embryogenesis and fetogenesis of the fetal thymus.
Reputation Inflation
Authors: Filippas Apostolos , Horton John J. , Golden Joseph M.
Published: May 2022

Reputation systems suffer from “reputation inflation,” which may make them less informative in the long run.
Right to Repair: Pricing, Welfare, and Environmental Implications
Authors: Jin Chen , Yang Luyi , Zhu Cungen
Published: May 2022

The “right-to-repair” (RTR) movement calls for government legislation that requires manufacturers to provide repair information, tools, and parts so that consumers can independently repair their own products with more ease. The initiative has gained global traction in recent years. Repair advocates argue that such legislation would break manufacturers’ monopoly on the repair market and benefit consumers. They further contend that it would reduce the environmental impact by reducing e-waste and new production. Yet the RTR legislation may also trigger a price response in the product market as manufacturers try to mitigate the profit loss. This paper employs an analytical model to study the pricing, welfare, and environmental implications of RTR. We find that, as the RTR legislation continually lowers the independent repair cost, manufacturers may initially cut the new product price and then raise it. This nonmonotone price adjustment may further induce a nonmonotone change in consumer surplus, social welfare, and the environmental impact. Strikingly, the RTR legislation can potentially lead to a lose–lose–lose outcome that compromises manufacturer profit, reduces consumer surplus, and increases the environmental impact despite repair being made easier and more affordable.

This paper was accepted by Charles Corbett, operations management.

Funding: Chen Jin gratefully acknowledges the Singapore Ministry of Education Academic Research Fund [Tier 1, Grant R-253-000-144-133].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.4401 .
Paediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome: A Diagnostic Challenge in a COVID-19-Negative Patient
Authors: Rahman Owais , Rasul Junaid , Mahmood Waqas , Logan Niamh , O'Brien Aidan
Published: May 2022

Paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome (PIMS) is associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients aged 19 years or below according to World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. The condition is characterised by fever, inflammation and organ dysfunction. PIMS mimics Kawasaki disease or toxic shock syndrome. As SARS-CoV-2 infection is a global pandemic, clinicians need to be aware of the conditions associated with it. We present the case of 18-year-old woman who was admitted with multi-organ failure requiring admission to the intensive care unit. The differential diagnosis included toxic shock syndrome, Kawasaki disease and PIMS. The overall picture fit the criteria for PIMS but the patient had a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for SARS-CoV-2, which presented additional diagnostic difficulties. As the PCR test was negative, IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 were measured to detect past infection and tested positive. The patient was diagnosed with PIMS as she met the WHO criteria after other differential diagnoses were excluded. She was successfully treated with methylprednisolone and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).
Enhanced Parallel FDTD Method Using SSE Instruction Sets
Authors: Zhang Lihong , Yang Xiaoling , Yu Wenhua
Published: May 2022

To accelerate the simulation of the parallel FDTD method, this paper proposes an effective hardware acceleration technique based on the SSE instruction sets, and puts forward a three-level data parallel algorithm based on MPI, OpenMP and SSE instructions. To demonstrate the acceleration effect of this technique, this paper develops two types of codes using C language: one is based on MPI + OpenMP, another is based on MPI + OpenMP + SSE, and then draws a comparison between the computing time of the two types of codes in the numerical experiments for the same electromagnetic radiation problems. The experimental results show that this acceleration technique can achieve an acceleration rate of 2.44 for the ideal case on a PC cluster and 2.37 for the practical problem on a 2-CPU workstation without requiring any extra hardware investment, and provide an efficient and economical technique for the electromagnetic simulations.