bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effectiveness of a Training Program Based on GeoGebra Program in Developing Mathematical Generalizations Teaching Skills among Female Student - Teachers at the Islamic University of Gaza
Authors: Al-Baloji Adham Hassan , Odeh Rahma Mohammad , Farag Huda Osama
Published: December 2022

The research aims to design a training program based on GoeGebra program and to explore its effectiveness in developing the teaching skills of mathematical generalizations among the Islamic University in Gaza female students who practice teaching. The research adopted the constructive approach in order to design the intended training program based on interactive programs and the one-group quasi-experimental approach to reveal effectiveness of the designed training program. The sample of the research consisted of (22) randomly selected female students who study mathematics and are enrolled in the module of Field Training. The researchers prepared a note card consisting of (36) items divided into three fields (planning skills, implementation skills, and assessment skills) to evaluate performance of the female students in the teaching skills of mathematical generalizations using the GeoGebra program. The research results showed the effectiveness of the proposed training program based on the GeoGebra program in developing the skills of teaching mathematical generalizations among the female student- teachers. The research recommended the need to train students at faculties of education who practice teaching on the use of GeoGebra program in the teaching of mathematics subjects especially mathematical generalizations.
The Role of Social Media Platforms in Developing the Values of Digital Citizenship among Students at Jordanian Private Universities
Authors: Abu Hussein Alaa Salah , Mansour Othman Nasser
Published: December 2022

The study aimed to reveal the role of social networking sites in developing the values of digital citizenship among students at private Jordanian universities. The descriptive survey method was used, and a questionnaire was developed for this purpose after ensuring its validity and reliability. The sample consisted of (502) male and female students who were selected by random stratified method. The results showed that the role of social networking sites in developing digital citizenship values among students at private Jordanian universities was at a high level, and there were no statistically significant differences in the role of social networking sites in developing digital citizenship values due to gender variables and the number of accounts on college social networking sites. Moreover, it was found that there were statistically significant differences due to the academic degree variable in favor of the bachelor's category. The study recommended cooperation with the Cybercrime Combating Unit and holding awareness sessions for university students to know the most important rights and duties in the virtual world, and the need to stay away from suspicious accounts.
The Effectiveness of the Impact of Early Intervention to Reduce the Disorder Behavior of Pupils with Simple Intellectual Disabilities at the Alti Center in Al-Kamlin locality, Sudan
Authors: Mohammad Bakhita Mohammad Zain Ali
Published: December 2022

The objectives of this research are to investigate the effectiveness of the impact of early intervention to reduce the disorder behavior of pupils with simple intellectual disabilities. To achieve these objectives, the researcher used the quasi-experimental method. The population of the study consisted of (80) pupils, from which a purposive sample of (60) Pupils was selected, then divided into two groups; experimental and control groups; each group consisted of (30) pupils with intellectual disabilities. Their ages range between (6-8) years. The tools of data collection consisted of the following: The Behavioral Disorders scale designed by the researcher and the program based on behavioral therapy also designed by the researcher. The program was applied during the school year (2020). The data were analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). The most important results of the study are that: there is statistically significant difference in favor of post-application in reducing behavioral disorders among study sample (0.05), and there is no statistically significant difference in the improvement of behavioral disorders according to gender. Based on this, the researcher postulated a number of recommendations, the most important of which are: to generalize the application of the program at rehabilitation centers for individuals with intellectual disabilities and to encourage its use to develop behavioral disorders.
The Concepts of Cognitive Economy Included and Proposed to be Included in the Textbooks of Social Studies for the Basic Stage in Jordan
Authors: Al-Shamaileh Basim Mohammad , Alsou’b Majed Mahmoud
Published: December 2022

This study aimed at identifying the degree to which the concepts of cognitive economy are included in the textbooks of social studies for the basic stage in Jordan and identifying the extent of variance in including these concepts in the textbooks according to the academic classroom. In order to achieve the study objectives, the researcher used the analytical descriptive approach represented by analyzing the content of textbooks. The study sample consisted of the textbooks of Social Studies for the basic stage for the third, sixth and tenth basic grades. The results revealed that the total concepts of cognitive economy included in the textbooks of Social Studies for the third, sixth and tenth basic grades were (1419) frequencies. The tenth grade was in the first place, followed by the sixth grade, and finally the third grade in the third place. As for concepts, the concepts of organizational concepts were in the first place, followed by the concepts of teaching, knowledge and labor market, the legal concepts, the concepts of innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship, the concepts of information technology, and finally the concepts of scientific research. The results showed that the concepts of cognitive economy included in the textbooks of Social Studies for the basic stage in Jordan vary according to the academic grade in favor of the tenth grade. In light of the results, the study recommended the necessity of urging the ministry of education to adopt the list of the concepts of cognitive economy mentioned in this study in developing the academic curricula of Social Studies.
SOFT SKILLS DEVELOPMENT TECHNOLOGIES IN THE SYSTEM OF PROFESSIONAL BACHELOR TRAINING OF CHOIR CONDUCTORS
Authors:   Nizhyn Gogol State University, Shumska L.
Published: December 2022

The paper studies the soft skills development technologies in the system of professional bachelor’s training of choral conductors, which are an important factor in ensuring future successful professional activity. The essence of the «soft skills» category was interpreted and the main characteristics of soft skills were investigated. It was found that there are three categories of soft skills: cognitive (critical thinking, innovative thinking, problemsolving skills, time management, etc.), social-communicative (communicative skills, communication ethics, group work skills, interpersonal skills, work ethics, etc.), personality attributes and components of emotional intelligence (emotional intelligence, flexibility, optimism, creativity, honesty, motivation, empathy, etc.). The analysis of the Higher Education Standard for the specialty 025 «Musical Art» for the first (bachelor’s level) of higher education was carried out, which defines the entire range of special professional competencies and learning outcomes of future choral conductors. An analysis of the process of formation and development of soft skills in future choral conductors was carried out through the analysis of the educational standard of their specialty. A general overview of the educational components for the «Conducting and choral art» profiling was conducted from the standpoint of ensuring the formation and development of soft skills. An analysis of the educational disciplines of the «Conducting and Choral Art» specialization was carried out, was carried out, which are aimed at the formation and development of differentiated soft skills in future choral conductors. The discipline «Professional music and performance training» was analyzed from the perspective of its opportunities to directly form soft skills of the future choir conductor, which contributes to the formation of communicative competences. It was determined that the most significant in the formation of communicative competences are personal indicators in several plans: creative-executive, social-psychological, communicative, individual-personal, moralpolitical. It was found that the communicative culture of choral conductors during the study of the educational discipline «Professional music and performance training» as an integrative personal education distinguishes the following indicators: according to the conducting-performing criterion, according to the emotional-value criterion, according to the cognitive criterion, according to the behavioral criterion. It was determined that after completing bachelor’s training, future choral conductors should develop soft skills based on the competence approach.
THE MODEL OF FORMATION OF A DISCOURSE COMPETENCE OF FUTURE PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS
Authors:   Nizhyn Gogol State University, Kyrychok I.
Published: December 2022

The article focuses on the important question about the formation of a discourse competence of future primary school teachers. The paper aims at justification and development of the model of discourse competence formation and is intended to analyze fundamental principles of the modeling theory, highlight modern approaches to interpreting the essence and structure of a discourse competence of future teachers. The definition of a discourse competence of future primary school teachers is represented by the author and it is as follows: a separate component in the structure of a communicative competence that presupposes systemic knowledge of various types of a professional discourse and their designing requirements which are essential for teaching activity; a complex of discourse skills and presence of the necessary qualities: openness, tolerance, empathy in the process of educational and academic communication. They provide management of the language event with respect to the nature of communication. The main principles of the modeling theory are investigated. With reference to teacher education researchers basic approaches to the structure of a teacher discourse competence are revealed. The model of a discourse competence of future teachers is justified and developed with consideration to types of primary school teachers` competences connected with their professional activity. It is explained that the model of a discourse competence of future teachers consists of a set of the following functionally interconnected blocks: normative and target-oriented, theoretical and methodological, technological, diagnostic and resultative. The presented model reveals aims of subjects of the educational process; main methodological approaches and didactic principles; the essence of a mentioned competence of higher education seekers; specifics of pedagogical support of the professional training process; criteria and levels that allow to diagnose the level of discourse competence formation of students in the process of the model implementation. The author proves that by its nature the created model of a discourse competence of future prime school teachers is structured and componential, conceptual, prognostic and it reflects open and controlled interaction process between the subjects of the educational process.
Development of an Internet-Based Information/DataResource Platform during the COVID-19 Pandemic Using Hierarchical Clustering
Authors: Evelyn Achudume Nkechi , Owolabi Olumide , Ubaka Ebelogu Christopher , Enoch Amujo Oluyemi
Published: December 2022

there is heavy usage of Internet-based information resource platformsdue to the COVID-19 pandemic. If it can present the search results as a list of groupsof related terms and context, that would be ideal. An additional enhancement would be to display information in the search results in a classified manner. Therefore, the research is proposing an effective and efficient information retrieval system. The methodology adopted follows the conventional Information Retrieval (IR) system design except that Cosine similarity and hierarchical clustering were introduced for search result ranking. The Average Precision of the proposed system was compared with that of flat clustering such as K-means. The result of the evaluation shows that hierarchical clustering improved in precision, being10% better than flat clustering result retrieval result. This led to greater usability, userexperience,and efficiency of the system.
Development of Home-Based Smart Ugali Cookerfor DomesticApplication
Authors: Kamusiime Immaculate , Ritha Umuhoza , Mwasambili Tusekile Juma , Kisangile Prof. Michael
Published: December 2022

An ordinary house has several chores that need to be done daily or for some days every week. It starts with house cleaning, laundry, kitchen-related chores, and family upkeep. These are works carried out by women in most cases and in most families. However, with the advances, changes, and evolutions being observed in our societies, the case is changing worldwide. Equalityin engagement in education and production has brought a balance in such duties which are now carried out by both men and women, from one perspective. On the other perspective, women carry fewer house chores being engaged in other socio-economic activities. Most families and schools in Tanzania and Africa at large take posho (ugali) as a staple food. The whole process of preparing ugali is complex and time-consuming yet other house chores need attention as well. This has increased the need to simplify several house chores since individuals need less contact time with house-oriented activities, and need increased efficiency while putting more focus on other production activities. The development of a home-based smart ugali cooker is rather a needed contribution to the bigger environment of house automation and smart homes. The Home-Based Smart Ugali Cooker is an embedded machine created with the sole aim of easing the process of ugali cooking in households. The machine is created focusing on the smartness of the system, automation, kitchen fitting, neatness, and user-friendliness. This paper illustrates the operations of a home-based smart ugali cooker, which is an embedded system, as well as different components used in creating it. It also explains the advantages it has over the ordinary processes usedin preparing ugali and the way forward.
Study of Energy Value Estimated from Mixture Design Matrix ofSome Agricultural Waste Blends pulverized nut shells
Authors: Sulaiman A.U. , Hadi B. A. , B. Idris  , I. Bello
Published: December 2022

Energy sources that are sustainable and renewable include biomass resources. Efficient use of these biomass resources to provide a worldwide energy supply that is sustainable. The techniques that enhance this biomass's energy potential require a thorough grasp of its physicochemical characteristics. The energy content of biomass resources (HHV or NHV) is a crucial factor to consider when determining their suitability for energy production. In this work, proximate assessments of biomass materials (agricultural residues) and their blends were developed based on some published empirical model equations to investigate the impact on their net and high heating value.EFB, corncob, and groundnut shell blends' computed net heating value (NHV) and high heating value (HHV) were found to be between 16.157 and 18.483 MJ/kg. According to the findings, agricultural residues are excellent substrates for the generation of solid fuel. The energy values of biomass samples might also be calculated using the empirical formulae based on their nearby characteristics.
Development of an Internet-Based Information/DataResource Platform during the COVID-19 Pandemic Using Hierarchical Clustering
Authors: Evelyn Achudume Nkechi , Owolabi Olumide , ChristopherUbaka Ebelogu , Enoch Amujo Oluyemi
Published: December 2022

There is heavy usage of Internet-based information resource platformsdue to the COVID-19 pandemic. If it can present the search results as a list of groupsof related terms and context, that would be ideal. An additional enhancement would be to display information in the search results in a classified manner. Therefore, the research is proposing an effective and efficient information retrieval system. The methodology adopted follows the conventional Information Retrieval (IR) system design except that Cosine similarity and hierarchical clustering were introduced for search result ranking. The Average Precision of the proposed system was compared with that of flat clustering such as K-means. The result of the evaluation shows that hierarchical clustering improved in precision, being10% better than flat clustering result retrieval result. This led to greater usability, userexperience,and efficiency of the system
Role of interhemispheric connectivity in recovery from postoperative supplementary motor area syndrome in glioma patients
Authors: Tuncer Mehmet Salih , Fekonja Lucius S. , Ott Stefanie , Pfnür Andreas , Karbe Anna-Gila , Engelhardt Melina , Faust Katharina , Picht Thomas , Coburger Jan , Dührsen Lasse , Vajkoczy Peter , Onken Julia
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE

Surgical resection of gliomas involving the supplementary motor area (SMA) frequently results in SMA syndrome, a symptom complex characterized by transient akinesia and mutism. Because the factors influencing patient functional outcomes after surgery remain elusive, the authors investigated network-based predictors in a multicentric cohort of glioma patients.

METHODS

The participants were 50 patients treated for glioma located in the SMA at one of the three centers participating in the study. Postoperative functional outcomes (motor deficits, mutism) and duration of symptoms were assessed during hospitalization. Long-term outcome was assessed 3 months after surgery. MRI-based lesion-symptom mapping was performed to estimate the severity of gray matter damage and white matter disconnection.

RESULTS

The median duration of acute symptoms was 3 days (range 1–42 days). Long-term deficits involving fine motor movements and speech were found at follow-up in 27 patients (54%). Disconnection of the central callosal fibers was associated with prolonged acute symptoms (p < 0.05). Postoperative mutism was significantly related to disconnection severity of the left frontopontine tract, frontal aslant tract, cingulum, and corticostriatal tract (p < 0.05). Disconnection of midposterior callosal fibers and lesion loads within the left medial Brodmann area 4 were associated with long-term motor deficits (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides evidence for the pathophysiology and predictive factors of postoperative SMA syndrome by demonstrating the relation of the disconnection of callosal fibers with prolonged symptom duration (central segment) and long-term motor deficits (midposterior segment). These data may be useful for presurgical risk assessment and adequate consultation for patients prior to undergoing resection of glioma located within the SMA region.
Perioperative risk factors associated with unplanned neurological intensive care unit readmission following elective supratentorial brain tumor resection
Authors: Yuan Qiang , Yao Hai-Jun , Xi Cai-Hua , Yu Chun , Du Zhuo-Ying , Chen Long , Wu Bi-Wu , Yang Lei , Wu Gang , Hu Jin
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe the clinical and procedural risk factors associated with the unplanned neurosurgical intensive care unit (NICU) readmission of patients after elective supratentorial brain tumor resection and serves as an exploratory analysis toward the development of a risk stratification tool that may be prospectively applied to this patient population.

METHODS

This was a retrospective observational cohort study. The electronic medical records of patients admitted to an institutional NICU between September 2018 and November 2021 after elective supratentorial brain tumor resection were reviewed. Demographic and perioperative clinical factors were recorded. A prognostic model was derived from the data of 4892 patients recruited between September 2018 and May 2021 (development cohort). A nomogram was created to display these predictor variables and their corresponding points and risks of readmission. External validation was evaluated using a series of 1118 patients recruited between June 2021 and November 2021 (validation cohort). Finally, a decision curve analysis was performed to determine the clinical usefulness of the prognostic model.

RESULTS

Of the 4892 patients in the development cohort, 220 (4.5%) had an unplanned NICU readmission. Older age, lesion type, Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) < 70 at admission, longer duration of surgery, retention of endotracheal intubation on NICU entry, and longer NICU length of stay (LOS) after surgery were independently associated with an unplanned NICU readmission. A total of 1118 patients recruited between June 2021 and November 2021 were included for external validation, and the model’s discrimination remained acceptable (C-statistic = 0.744, 95% CI 0.675–0.814). The decision curve analysis for the prognostic model in the development and validation cohorts showed that at a threshold probability between 0.05 and 0.8, the prognostic model showed a positive net benefit.

CONCLUSIONS

A predictive model that included age, lesion type, KPS < 70 at admission, duration of surgery, retention of endotracheal intubation on NICU entry, and NICU LOS after surgery had an acceptable ability to identify elective supratentorial brain tumor resection patients at high risk for an unplanned NICU readmission. These risk factors and this prediction model may facilitate better resource allocation in the NICU and improve patient outcomes.
Analysis of intracranial pressure pulse waveform in traumatic brain injury patients: a CENTER-TBI study
Authors: Uryga Agnieszka , Ziółkowski Arkadiusz , Kazimierska Agnieszka , Pudełko Agata , Mataczyński Cyprian , Lang Erhard W. , Czosnyka Marek , Kasprowicz Magdalena , _ _ , _ _ , Anke Audny , Beer Ronny , Bellander Bo-Michael , Beqiri Erta , Buki Andras , Cabeleira Manuel , Carbonara Marco , Chieregato Arturo , Citerio Giuseppe , Clusmann Hans , Czeiter Endre , Czosnyka Marek , Depreitere Bart , Ercole Ari , Frisvold Shirin , Helbok Raimund , Jankowski Stefan , Kondziella Danile , Koskinen Lars-Owe , Kowark Ana , Menon David K. , Meyfroidt Geert , Moeller Kirsten , Nelson David , Piippo-Karjalainen Anna , Radoi Andreea , Ragauskas Arminas , Raj Rahul , Rhodes Jonathan , Rocka Saulius , Rossaint Rolf , Sahuquillo Juan , Sakowitz Oliver , Smielewski Peter , Stocchetti Nino , Sundström Nina , Takala Riikka , Tamosuitis Tomas , Tenovuo Olli , Unterberg Andreas , Vajkoczy Peter , Vargiolu Alessia , Vilcinis Rimantas , Wolf Stefan , Younsi Alexander , Zeiler Frederick A.
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE

Intracranial pressure (ICP) pulse waveform analysis may provide valuable information about cerebrospinal pressure-volume compensation in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). The authors applied spectral methods to analyze ICP waveforms in terms of the pulse amplitude of ICP (AMP), high frequency centroid (HFC), and higher harmonics centroid (HHC) and also used a morphological classification approach to assess changes in the shape of ICP pulse waveforms using the pulse shape index (PSI).

METHODS

The authors included 184 patients from the Collaborative European NeuroTrauma Effectiveness Research in Traumatic Brain Injury (CENTER-TBI) High-Resolution Sub-Study in the analysis. HFC was calculated as the average power-weighted frequency within the 4- to 15-Hz frequency range of the ICP power density spectrum. HHC was defined as the center of mass of the ICP pulse waveform harmonics from the 2nd to the 10th. PSI was defined as the weighted sum of artificial intelligence–based ICP pulse class numbers from 1 (normal pulse waveform) to 4 (pathological waveform).

RESULTS

AMP and PSI increased linearly with mean ICP. HFC increased proportionally to ICP until the upper breakpoint (average ICP of 31 mm Hg), whereas HHC slightly increased with ICP and then decreased significantly when ICP exceeded 25 mm Hg. AMP (p < 0.001), HFC (p = 0.003), and PSI (p < 0.001) were significantly greater in patients who died than in patients who survived. Among those patients with low ICP (< 15 mm Hg), AMP, PSI, and HFC were greater in those with poor outcome than in those with good outcome (all p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Whereas HFC, AMP, and PSI could be used as predictors of mortality, HHC may potentially serve as an early warning sign of intracranial hypertension. Elevated HFC, AMP, and PSI were associated with poor outcome in TBI patients with low ICP.
Reduction in wound healing complications and infection rate by lumbar CSF drainage after decompressive hemicraniectomy
Authors: Truckenmueller Peter , Früh Anton , Wolf Stefan , Faust Katharina , Hecht Nils , Onken Julia , Ahlborn Robert , Vajkoczy Peter , Zdunczyk Anna
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE

Wound healing disorders and surgical site infections are the most frequently encountered complications after decompressive hemicraniectomy (DHC). Subgaleal CSF accumulation causes additional tension of the scalp flap and increases the risk of wound dehiscence, CSF fistula, and infection. Lumbar CSF drainage might relieve subgaleal CSF accumulation and is often used when a CSF fistula through the surgical wound appears. The aim of this study was to investigate if early prophylactic lumbar drainage might reduce the rate of postoperative wound revisions and infections after DHC.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively analyzed 104 consecutive patients who underwent DHC from January 2019 to May 2021. Before January 2020, patients did not receive lumbar drainage, whereas after January 2020, patients received lumbar drainage within 3 days after DHC for a median total of 4 (IQR 2–5) days if the first postoperative CT scan confirmed open basal cisterns. The primary endpoint was the rate of severe wound healing complications requiring surgical revision. Secondary endpoints were the rate of subgaleal CSF accumulations and hygromas as well as the rate of purulent wound infections and subdural empyema.

RESULTS

A total of 31 patients died during the acute phase; 34 patients with and 39 patients without lumbar drainage were included for the analysis of endpoints. The predominant underlying pathology was malignant hemispheric stroke (58.8% vs 66.7%) followed by traumatic brain injury (20.6% vs 23.1%). The rate of surgical wound revisions was significantly lower in the lumbar drainage group (5 [14.7%] vs 14 [35.9%], p = 0.04). A stepwise linear regression analysis was used to identify potential covariates associated with wound healing disorder and reduced them to lumbar drainage and BMI. One patient was subject to paradoxical herniation. However, the patient’s symptoms rapidly resolved after lumbar drainage was discontinued, and he survived with only moderate deficits related to the primary disease. There was no significant difference in the rate of radiological herniation signs. The median lengths of stay in the ICU were similar, with 12 (IQR 9–23) days in the drainage group compared with 13 (IQR 11–23) days in the control group (p = 0.21).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients after DHC and open basal cisterns on postoperative CT, lumbar drainage appears to be safe and reduces the rate of surgical wound revisions and intracranial infection after DHC while the risk for provoking paradoxical herniation is low early after surgery.
A novel needle holder for suturing in a deep and narrow surgical field: a technical note
Authors: Sato Atsushi , Hongo Kazuhiro , Sasaki Tetsuo , Murase Hiromu , Ogiwara Toshihiro , Horiuchi Tetsuyoshi
Published: December 2022

Microvascular anastomosis is a standard procedure in neurosurgery that is applied to various lesions, such as those of ischemic disease and moyamoya disease. The depth of an anastomosis can be superficial or deep. At deeper sites, the procedure becomes challenging, as the operative field is usually narrow. Among the anastomotic approaches, suturing is the most challenging in a limited and deeper field. Additionally, since the suturing device is inevitably long, the delicate procedure becomes challenging. To overcome this technical difficulty and suture more efficiently, even in a narrow and deep field, the authors developed a needle holder, the REVOLD-HS, that allows rotational motion without moving the holder. This new needle holder is uniaxial and allows the forceps at the tip to be manipulated by operating the rotor in the hand. There is a mechanism for opening, closing, and rotating the holder via the surgeon’s finger without moving the holder. Based on suture experiments in simulated blood vessels while using the holder, some situations may necessitate the use of this needle holder. This novel smart device may assist in deep vascular anastomosis in microsurgery, suturing of the carotid artery in carotid endarterectomy, and dural repair in endoscopic surgery.
Growth potential of small residual tumors after vestibular schwannoma surgery: comparison between remnants and the natural history of small tumors
Authors: Higuchi Yoshinori , Nakano Shigeki , Aoyagi Kyoko , Origuchi Shinichi , Horiguchi Kentaro , Serizawa Toru , Yamakami Iwao , Iwadate Yasuo
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE

Due to the heterogeneous definitions of tumor regrowth and various tumor volume distributions, the nature of small remnants after vestibular schwannoma (VS) surgery and the appropriate timing of adjuvant stereotactic radiosurgery for these remnants remain unclear. In this study, the growth potential of small remnants (< 1 cm3) after VS surgery was compared with that of treatment-naïve (TN) small VSs.

METHODS

This retrospective single-center study included 44 patients with VS remnants following subtotal resection (STR) of a large VS (remnant group) and 75 patients with TN VS (< 1 cm3; TN group). A 20% change in tumor volume over the imaging interval indicated radiographic progression or regression. Tumor progression-free survival (TPFS) rates were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

In the remnant group, the mean preoperative tumor volume was 13.8 ± 9.0 cm3 and the mean tumor resection rate was 95% ± 5%. The mean tumor volume at the start of the observation period did not differ significantly between the two groups (remnant vs TN: 0.41 ± 0.29 vs 0.34 ± 0.28 cm3, p = 0.171). The median periods until tumor progression was detected were 15.1 (range 4.9–76.2) months and 44.7 (range 12.6–93.2) months in the TN and remnant groups, respectively. In the remnant group, the TPFS rates were 74% and 70% at 3 and 5 years after the surgery, respectively, compared with 59% and 47% in the TN group. The log-rank test demonstrated a significant difference (p = 0.008) in the TPFS rates between the two groups. Furthermore, 42 patients each from the remnant and TN groups were matched based on tumor volume. TPFS was significantly longer in the remnant group than in the TN group (3-year rates, 77% vs 62%; 5-year rates, 73% vs 51%; p = 0.02). In the remnant group, 18% of the tumor remnants demonstrated regression during follow-up, compared with 9% in the TN group, but this intergroup difference was not significant (p = 0.25).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that the growth potential of small VS remnants was lower than that of TN tumors. Observing for small remnants may be appropriate after STR of a large VS. Given the risk of tumor regrowth, careful observation using MRI should be mandatory during follow-up.
Establishing ranked priorities for future hydrocephalus research
Authors: Jakopin Noriana E. , Myong Elliot , Bogucki Trish , Gray Diana , Gross Paul , McComb J. Gordon , Shannon Chevis N. , Tamber Mandeep S. , Toyama Maiko , van der Willigen Tessa , Yazdani Amir , Hamilton Mark G. , Koschnitzky Jenna E.
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this initiative was to develop a ranked list of hydrocephalus research priorities as determined by the hydrocephalus patient community in conjunction with the healthcare and scientific community.

METHODS

Using the validated methodology published by the James Lind Alliance (JLA), the Hydrocephalus Association (HA) administered two surveys and hosted a final prioritization workshop. Survey One solicited open-ended responses from the community. From these responses, a long list of priority statements was developed. This list was then consolidated into a short list of research priority statements, which, after a nonsystematic literature review, were verified as being research uncertainties. Survey Two asked the community members to select their top 10 priorities from the short list. The final prioritization leading to a final ranked top 20 list of hydrocephalus research priorities took place at a virtual workshop led by a team of trained facilitators, by means of an iterative process of consensus building.

RESULTS

From Survey One, 3703 responses from 890 respondents were collected, leading to a long list of 146 priority statements. The consolidated short list contained 49 research priority statements, all of which were verified as uncertainties in hydrocephalus research. From an analysis of Survey Two responses, the top 21 research priority statements were determined. A consensus on these statements was reached at the virtual workshop, leading to a final ranked top 20 list of hydrocephalus research priorities, within which needs were apparent in several areas: development of noninvasive and/or one-time therapies, reduction of the burden of current treatments, improvement of the screening and diagnosis of hydrocephalus, improved quality of life, and improved access to care.

CONCLUSIONS

By gathering extensive input from the hydrocephalus community and using an iterative process of consensus building, a ranked list of the top 20 hydrocephalus research priorities was developed. The HA will use this ranked list to guide future research programs and encourages the healthcare and scientific community to do the same.
A comparison of treating physician versus independent core lab assessments of post–aneurysm treatment imaging outcomes: an analysis of prospectively collected data from a randomized trial
Authors: Patra Devi P. , Syal Arjun , Rahme Rudy J. , Abi-Aad Karl R. , Singh Rohin , Turcotte Evelyn L. , Jones Breck A. , Meyer Jenna , Hudson Miles , Chong Brian W. , Dabus Guilherme , James Robert F. , Krishna Chandan , Bendok Bernard R.
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE

Aneurysm occlusion has been used as surrogate marker of aneurysm treatment efficacy. Aneurysm occlusion scales are used to evaluate the outcome of endovascular aneurysm treatment and to monitor recurrence. These scales, however, require subjective interpretation of imaging data, which can reduce the utility and reliability of these scales and the validity of clinical studies regarding aneurysm occlusion rates. Use of a core lab with independent blinded reviewers has been implemented to enhance the validity of occlusion rate assessments in clinical trials. The degree of agreement between core labs and treating physicians has not been well studied with prospectively collected data.

METHODS

In this study, the authors analyzed data from the Hydrogel Endovascular Aneurysm Treatment (HEAT) trial to assess the interrater agreement between the treating physician and the blinded core lab. The HEAT trial included 600 patients across 46 sites with intracranial aneurysms treated with coiling. The treating site and the core lab independently reviewed immediate postoperative and follow-up imaging (3–12 and 18–24 months, respectively) using the Raymond-Roy occlusion classification (RROC) scale, Meyer scale, and recanalization survey. A post hoc analysis was performed to calculate interrater reliability using Cohen’s kappa. Further analysis was performed to assess whether degree of agreement varied on the basis of various factors, including scale used, timing of imaging, size of the aneurysm, imaging modality, location of the aneurysm, dome-to-neck ratio, and rupture status.

RESULTS

Minimal interrater agreement was noted between the core lab reviewers and the treating physicians for assessing aneurysm occlusion using the RROC grading scale (k = 0.39, 95% CI 0.38–0.40) and Meyer scale (k = 0.23, 95% CI 0.14–0.38). The degree of agreement between groups was slightly better but still weak for assessing recanalization (k = 0.45, 95% CI 0.38–0.52). Factors that significantly improved degree of agreement were scales with fewer variables, greater time to follow-up, imaging modality (digital subtraction angiography), and wide-neck aneurysms.

CONCLUSIONS

Assessment of aneurysm treatment outcome with commonly used aneurysm occlusion scales suffers from risk of poor interrater agreement. This supports the use of independent core labs for validation of outcome data to minimize reporting bias. Use of outcome tools with fewer point categories is likely to provide better interrater reliability. Therefore, the outcome assessment tools are ideal for clinical outcome assessment provided that they are sensitive enough to detect a clinically significant change.
Fascicular shifting in the reconstruction of brachial plexus injuries: an anatomical and clinical evaluation
Authors: Sporer Matthias E. , Brugger Peter C. , Aman Martin , Fuchssteiner Christoph F. , Festin Christopher , Gstoettner Clemens , Aszmann Oskar C.
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE

Until recently, autologous sensory nerve grafting has remained the gold-standard technique in peripheral nerve reconstruction. However, there are several disadvantages to these grafts, such as donor site morbidity, limited availability, and a qualitative mismatch. Building on this shortage, a new concept, the fascicular shift procedure, was proposed and successfully demonstrated nerve regeneration in a rat nerve injury model. This approach involves harvesting a fascicular group distal to a peripheral nerve injury and shifting it to bridge the defect. The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical applicability of this technique in brachial plexus reconstruction.

METHODS

The supra- and infraclavicular nerves of the brachial plexus were bilaterally explored in 18 formalin-fixed cadaveric specimens. Following dissection, their fascicular shifting potential was evaluated. The medial antebrachial cutaneous and sural nerves were investigated and used as references for the required cross-sectional area of potential nerve grafts. Furthermore, 29 brachial plexus injuries, which qualified for surgical repair, were subjected to retrospective analysis. The intraoperatively measured lengths of the harvested and ultimately transplanted nerve grafts served as a basis to assess graft requirements in brachial plexus lesions.

RESULTS

The transplanted nerve grafts measured a total length of 51.9 ± 28.1 cm in brachial plexus injuries. The individual inserted nerve grafts averaged 10.3 ± 5.1 cm. In the anatomical exploration, the ulnar and median nerves qualified for fascicular shifting. Their fascicular graft lengths measured 26.6 ± 2.5 cm and 24.8 ± 5.2 cm, respectively. The long thoracic, suprascapular, musculocutaneous, thoracodorsal, and axillary nerves were not suitable for fascicular shifting. The sensory graft length of the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve measured 20.6 ± 3.4 cm.

CONCLUSIONS

In the surgical reconstruction of brachial plexus injuries, fascicular shifting of the ulnar and median nerves provides sufficient donor material. Even though potential donor length is limited in the radial nerve, it may still help to expand the surgical armamentarium in selected clinical scenarios. Overall, the fascicular shift procedure presents a novel alternative to allow modality-matched grafting in the reconstruction of large proximal nerve defects and was found to be an attractive option in brachial plexus reconstruction.
Assessing opportunities for formal exposure to clinical neurosurgery within United States allopathic medical education curricula
Authors: Pugazenthi Sangami , Islam Aseeyah A. , Sivakumar Walavan , Dornbos David L. , Johnson Jeremiah N. , Wolfe Stacey Q. , Graffeo Christopher S.
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate opportunities for early clinical exposure to neurosurgery at US allopathic medical schools and to assess associations between early exposure and recruitment into neurosurgery.

METHODS

The authors conducted a standardized review of online curriculum documentation for all US allopathic medical schools, including descriptive review of opportunities for clinical neurosurgical training among medical students. Chi-square analysis was used to compare baseline characteristics of institutions. Logistic regression was performed to assess factors predictive of early exposure to clinical neurosurgery, defined as completion of a formal rotation at least 6 months prior to Electronic Residency Application Service submission.

RESULTS

Among 155 allopathic US medical schools, 143 are fully accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education. Eleven schools have no affiliated hospitals with a neurosurgery practice, and 26 do not have an American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) medical student chapter. Overall, 94 (60.6%) have a traditional preclinical curriculum lasting 21–25 months, 50 (32.3%) offer an intermediate preclinical period of 15–20 months, and 11 (7.1%) report a short preclinical curriculum of 12–14 months. Early formal exposure to clinical neurosurgery was offered by 113 schools (72.9%). Early clinical exposure to neurosurgery was associated with a short (100%) or intermediate (76%) preclinical curriculum, as compared with a traditional curriculum (68.1%; p = 0.066). Early exposure was significantly associated with a shorter preclinical curriculum (OR 0.784, p = 0.005). AANS medical student chapters were present at a high majority of schools with early exposure (OR 4.114, p = 0.006). Medical schools with a higher percentage of graduating medical students matching into neurosurgery were associated with a shorter preclinical curriculum length (β = −0.287, p < 0.001), were more commonly private medical schools (β = 0.338, p < 0.001), and had early clinical exposure to neurosurgery (β = 0.191, p = 0.032).

CONCLUSIONS

Early exposure to clinical neurosurgery is available at most US allopathic medical schools and is associated with shorter preclinical curricula and institutions with AANS medical student chapters. Medical schools with a higher proportion of medical students entering neurosurgery had a shorter preclinical curriculum length and early clinical exposure to neurosurgery. Further study is recommended to characterize the impact of early exposure on long-term pedagogical outcomes.
A comparative analysis of the Hospital Frailty Risk Score in predicting postoperative outcomes among intracranial tumor patients
Authors: Jimenez Adrian E. , Liu Jiaqi , Cicalese Kyle V. , Jimenez Miguel A. , Porras Jose L. , Azad Tej D. , Jackson Christopher , Gallia Gary L. , Bettegowda Chetan , Weingart Jon , Mukherjee Debraj
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE

In recent years, frailty indices such as the 11- and 5-factor modified frailty indices (mFI-11 and mFI-5), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification, and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) have been shown to be effective predictors of various postoperative outcomes in neurosurgical patients. The Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) is a well-validated tool for assessing frailty; however, its utility has not been evaluated in intracranial tumor surgery. In the present study, the authors investigated the accuracy of the HFRS in predicting outcomes following intracranial tumor resection and compared its utility to those of other validated frailty indices.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted using an intracranial tumor patient database at a single institution. Patients eligible for study inclusion were those who had undergone resection for an intracranial tumor between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2019. ICD-10 codes were used to identify HFRS components and subsequently calculate risk scores. In addition to several postoperative variables, ASA class, CCI, and mFI-11 and mFI-5 scores were determined for each patient. Model discrimination was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), and the DeLong test was used to assess for significant differences between AUROCs. Multivariate models for continuous outcomes were constructed using linear regression, whereas logistic regression models were used for categorical outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 2518 intracranial tumor patients (mean age 55.3 ± 15.1 years, 53.4% female, 70.4% White) were included in this study. The HFRS had a statistically significant greater AUROC than ASA status, CCI, mFI-11, and mFI-5 for postoperative complications, high hospital charges, nonroutine discharge, and 90-day readmission. In the multivariate analysis, the HFRS was significantly and independently associated with postoperative complications (OR 1.14, p < 0.0001), hospital length of stay (coefficient = 0.50, p < 0.0001), high hospital charges (coefficient = 1917.49, p < 0.0001), nonroutine discharge (OR 1.14, p < 0.0001), and 90-day readmission (OR 1.06, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The study findings suggest that the HFRS is an effective predictor of postoperative outcomes in intracranial tumor patients and more effectively predicts adverse outcomes than other frailty indices. The HFRS may serve as an important tool for reducing patient morbidity and mortality in intracranial tumor surgery.
Технологія пошиття швейних виробів (дидактичні матеріали)
Authors: Драшко Олена Миколаївна
Published: December 2022

Дидактичні матеріали розкривають питання підготовки студентів на заняттях з технології швейного виробництва та з практикуму крою та пошиття виробів. Дані матеріали дають можливість засвоїти основні технологічні прийоми обробки деталей, вузлів та пошиття виробів. Матеріали рекомендуються для учнів профтехосвіти, майстрів виробничого навчання студентів, магістрів, вчителів та викладачів вищих навчальних закладів.
M. REMIZOV. «FIGLI-MIGLI». «HOROSCOPE»
Authors:   Vladimir Dahl State Museum of the History of Russian Literature, Uryupina Anna Sergeevna
Published: December 2022

The article introduces the academic community to A. M. Remizov’s short stories «Figli-Migli» and «Horoscope», a significant addition to the book Myshkina Dudochka, presently stored as part of the writer’s collection at the Vladimir Dahl State Museum of the History of Russian Literature (GMIRLI).
K. N. LEONTIEV: DOCTOR, WRITER, PATIENT
Authors:   Institute of Russian Literature (Pushkinskij Dom), Russian Academy of Sciences, Fetisenko Ol’ga Leonidovna
Published: December 2022

The article outlines the legacy of K. N. Leontiev, a well-known writer and philosopher, who served as a military doctor during the Crimean War and worked as a private practitioner for five years after. It deals with the plethora of «medical» themes in his fi ction and his memoir-autobiographical prose, as well as with the use of the relevant imagery in his historiosophic writings. A number of previously unknown facts of the writer’s biography are introduced to the academic community for the fi rst time, e. g. the permission to practice medicine he received in 1876 from the Meshchovskaya County Medical Board, his unsuccessful attempt to take the position of a zemstvo doctor in the same county in 1877, at a time when the author of «Byzantium and Slavyanism» seemed to have long abandoned his «professional path».