Descriptive Research Articles

The feasibility of preventing Hospital-Acquired Pressure Ulcers (HAPUs)

Introduction: Hospital-acquired pressure ulcers (HAPUs) are a significant healthcare issue, leading to physical complications, extended hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. Preventive measures are crucial for managing this problem. With the growing integration of technology in healthcare, mobile e-book applications and chatbots offer promising tools for improving clinical practice and decision-making. This study evaluates the feasibility of using these technologies in terms of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), focusing on perceived usefulness, ease of use, and intention to use among nurses. Methods: A quantitative research design was employed to assess the perceptions of 30 registered nurses working in a hospital setting. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework guided the measurement of key variables, including perceived usefulness, ease of use, and intention to use. Data were collected through a self-administered online survey and semi-structured interviews. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to analyze the data. Results: The study revealed positive perceptions of the chatbot and mobile e-book app in terms of their usefulness, ease of use, and intention to use. The mean scores for usefulness, ease of use, and intention to use were 16.55 ± 1.50, 17.32 ± 0.79, and 13.03 ± 1.74, respectively, indicating high feasibility for adoption. Discussion: The findings suggest that mobile e-books and chatbots are well-received by healthcare professionals, with perceived usefulness and ease of use being significant factors for their adoption. These technologies can support clinical decision-making, reduce medical errors, and improve healthcare outcomes. Future developments should focus on integrating these tools into healthcare training programs and enhancing their functionality with real-time updates and interactive features. Keywords: Hospital-acquired pressure ulcers, Technology Acceptance Model, mobile e-books, chatbots, healthcare technology.

Social Support Systems and their Impact on the Psychosocial Well-Being of Elderly People

With the physical descent and loneliness that come with aging, strong social networks are critical to preserving an older person’s well-being. The study focuses on the impact on the psychological well-being of people. The study took place at Lamki Chuha Municipality, Kailali district in Nepal. In this study, 249 elderly people aged 60 years and above were systematically selected through random sampling, and data were collected through a descriptive survey using a cross-sectional design. Data were generated using face-to-face interviews administered by developing a questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to analyze how social support affects the emotional well-being of respondents using SPSS (version 20). The findings indicate that more than one-third of the elderly feel that their families do not support them adequately, 42.6 percent indicated rejection as an issue, and 38.2 percent stated communication barriers as a reason for lack of support. This study showed that structural support was very important since it had connections to both financial resources and knowledge, but it was a friendship that was perceived to be most valuable, and it influenced older people to a very great extent. As a result of the findings of this study, specific measures should be implemented frequently for these unique groups.

Management Control System and Organizational Performance of Manufacturing Firms in Kailali District

This study examines the relationship between management control systems and the organizational performance of manufacturing firms in Kailali District. Management control system (MCS) is a crucial tool for strategic planning, budgeting, decision-making and internal auditing for the enhancement of organizational performance. The study looks into the effects of these tools on organizational performance. The study evaluates the significance of MCS components using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and multiple regression using primary data from 20 manufacturing organizations. The results show that internal audits, strategic planning and decision-making have positively and significantly affected organizational performance. However, budget control has a positive relationship but insignificant effect on organizational performance. Among all the management control system dimensions strategic planning has been found most important dimension to affect the organizational performance of manufacturing firms. The findings of the study will be useful to the managers of manufacturing firms for the implementation of management control dimensions. The study added an area of comparison regarding the management control system.

National Football League Scouting Combine Test Results of Elite-Level National Football League Players

ABSTRACT This study aimed to determine elite and poor performance for each offensive and defensive position group on every physical test performed at the NFL Scouting Combine Descriptive statistics were calculated as well as independent samples t-tests for the 15 position groups relative to their performance in the NFL Scouting Combine tests, including: (a) 40-yard Dash, (b) Vertical Jump, (c) Bench Press, (d) Broad Jump, (e) Three-cone Drill, and (f) Shuttle Run. Each player’s height and weight were also analyzed. The 15 position groups include Quarterbacks (n = 206), Fullbacks (n = 64), Running Backs (n = 314), Wide Receivers (n = 501), Tight Ends (n = 187), Offensive Tackles (n = 279), Guards (n = 198), Centers (n = 99), Cornerbacks (n = 374), Free Safeties (n = 132), Strong Safeties (n = 129), Outside Linebackers (n = 273), Inside Linebackers (n = 162), Defensive Ends (n = 280), and Defensive Tackles (n = 273). For each of the 15 position groups, there was at least one NFL Scouting Combine test result that had a statistically significant difference at the p < .05 or p < .001 level when comparing players who averaged playing in at least 10 games per season versus those that played in less than 10 games. The results of this study provide knowledge of which physical test is essential for each offensive and defensive position and can be helpful for those charged with making player personnel decisions in NFL organizations.

Effect of Financial Planning Strategies on Financial Sustainability of NGOs in Nairobi County Kenya

With diminishing donor funding or its redirection to other pressing projects, humanitarian organizations are increasingly exploring commercial ventures to reduce their reliance on shrinking financial support. The primary focus of this study was to analyze the effect of financial planning strategies on financial sustainability of non-governmental organizations in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study employed a descriptive research design, drawing on theories such as Resource-Based theory. The study focused on a population of 201 NGOs that were fully registered with the NGO coordination board and located in Nairobi County. The primary data for this study will be collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Both qualitative and quantitative data was generated through the research process. Descriptive statistics, including absolute and relative percentages, frequencies, measures of central tendency, and dispersion (mean and standard deviation), will be employed. The findings were presented in tables and figures, with explanations provided in a narrative format. Furthermore, the study utilized Karl Pearson’s coefficient of correlation and multiple regression analyses to explore the relationships between the independent variables and the dependent variables, enhancing the depth of the research and contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing the performance of local NGOs in Kenya. Findings revealed moderate agreement on the effectiveness of financial practices but significant variability, indicating inconsistent implementation. Strong financial planning was positively correlated with improved performance, while donor fund management showed no significant relationship with organizational outcomes. These insights provided a comprehensive approach to enhancing financial sustainability and organizational effectiveness within the NGO sector.

The prevalence of distant metastasis on initial imaging after negative or non-localizing sentinel lymph node biopsy in patients with T3 or greater melanoma.

The diagnostic workup for T3 or greater melanoma includes sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) for staging purposes. However, it is unclear if a negative SLNB in this subset of patients is adequate to rule out distant metastases (DMs) in the absence of imaging. Furthermore, current guidelines for imaging in these cases are ambiguous. Therefore, we aim to report and compare the prevalence of DMs found on imaging in patients with T3 or greater melanoma, stratified by SLNB result. In addition, we aim to qualitatively investigate the effect on time to treatment if imaging is delayed in these patients. This is a retrospective study of 140 patients with T3 or greater melanoma who underwent workup and treatment at our institution from 2009 to 2022. Diagnostic data, primary tumor characteristics, and demographics were collected. Descriptive statistics were applied to describe the cohort with granular detail. An independent Fisher's exact test was performed to compare the prevalence of DMs detected on imaging stratified by SLNB result. A student's t test was performed to compare average time to treatment within a subset of patients with negative or non-localizing SLNB to assess for any benefit with staging imaging completed prior to SLNB. The prevalence of DMs detected using advanced imaging in patients with T3 or greater melanoma was similar between groups, where 4 of 33 (12.12%) patients with negative or non-localizing SLNB were found to have DMs compared to 6 of 50 (12%) patients with positive SLNB (two-tailed p = 1). For those who had a negative or non-localizing SLNB and underwent adjuvant therapy, a student's t-test revealed no significant difference in time to treatment initiation between those who had imaging prior to SLNB (56 days) and those who had imaging after SLNB (86 days) was completed (p = 0.2317). Given the similar prevalence of DMs regardless of SLNB result, patients with T3 or greater melanoma may benefit from more extensive imaging alongside SLNB upon initial diagnosis to prevent potential delays in detection of DMs and prompt initiation of appropriate treatment.

Assessment of Open Defecation Practice Among Almajiri Schools in Kware Local Government, Sokoto State, Nigeria: Preventive Lessons from Sokoto Caliphate Ideals

Almajiri schools in Nigeria face challenges, including poor sanitation and open defecation. This study assessed the situation of Almajiri schools in Kware Local Government, Sokoto State, Nigeria, regarding open defecation and proffered comparative preventive solutions from Sokoto Caliphate ideals. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 50 Almajiri schools, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. And a historical comparative method was used to link the result with the qualitative information from Sokoto Caliphate literatures or information. The results showed: 1. Poor sanitation: 50% of schools had open defecation, and 20% had scarce toilets. 2. Water scarcity: 50% of schools had no source of water supply. 3. Poor environmental sanitation: 50% of schools had bad environmental sanitation. 4. Hazardous waste management: 46% of schools practiced open dumping, and 28% practiced open burning. The study highlights the need for improved sanitation, water supply, and waste management in Almajiri schools. The Sokoto Caliphate ideals, which emphasize Zakat, seeking for wealth to earn livelihood, cleanliness and hygiene, can provide valuable lessons for preventing open defecation and promoting better sanitation practices.

Changes in spino-pelvis-lower extremity alignment in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a prospective radiographic study.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent, debilitating ailment among the elderly. Humans need a correct sagittal spino-pelvis-lower extremity alignment to stand upright. Pathology in trunk or lower extremity section might disrupt this harmony, causing compensatory alterations in other segments. The aim of the present study was to evaluate spino-pelvis-lower extremity alignment and association among the various spino-pelvic, knee, and ankle radiological angles in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). This prospective study enrolled 70 adults over 50years of age of either sex who complained of knee pain and met the American College of Rheumatology criteria for symptomatic OA of at least one knee. The radiological assessment comprised anteroposterior and lateral lower extremity full-length scans, as well as the Kellgren-Lawrence radiographic classification of OA. We measured hip, knee, ankle, and spino-pelvic angles using Horos software. We calculated descriptive statistics and linear correlation between continuous variables. There was a significant association (p < 0.05) between age and the majority of the spino-pelvic, knee, and ankle angles and between age and severity of OA. Significant variables linked with 'SFA' include HKAA (p = 0.008), mLDFA (p < 0.001), TJLA, FS-TS, Cond-Plateau, and femoral bowing (p = 0.007). We found significant associations between 'PFA' and mMPTA (p = 0.005), Cond-Plateau (p = 0.005), Tibial Bowing (p = 0.003), and 'LL' with HKAA, mLDFA, FS-TS, and Cond-Plate. SSA was significantly associated with mLDFA, mMPTA, TJLA, Cond-Plateau, and HKAA; while, FI' was significantly associated with FS-TS, femoral bowing, and tibial bowing (p < 0.001). The variables 'SS' was substantially linked with TTA (p = 0.008), TT (p = 0.004), PP (< 0.001), GP (p < 0.001), and GT (p = 0.010). 'PI' was substantially linked to TT (p = 0.001), GP (p = 0.005), and GT (p = 0.042), and 'PT' to TT (p < 0.001) and GT (p = 0.012). 'SFA' and 'PFA' only correlated with TT (p = 0.012 and 0.010). Lower limb angles were significantly associated with TT, PP, GP, GT, mLDFA, and mMPTA (p = 0.031, p = 0.026, p = 0.009, p = 0.009, TT, GP, GT, p < 0.001). GP was the sole significant association for 'TJLA' (p = 0.016). 'FS-TS' substantially correlated with PP (p = 0.015), GP (p < 0.001), and GT (p < 0.001). "Femoral Bowing" was significantly linked to PP (p = 0.017), GP (p = 0.007), and GT (p < 0.001), and "Cond-Plateau" was significantly linked to GP (p = 0.002) and GT. "Tibial Bowing" was significantly linked to TTA (p < 0.001), TAS (p = 0.003), LDTA (p = 0.002), TC (p < 0.001), GP (p = 0.007), and GT (p < 0.001). Age, gender, BMI, and the severity of knee OA significantly influenced the association among these various angles. Osteoarthritis of the knee disrupts the harmonious alignment of the spine and pelvis with the lower limbs, resulting in compensatory changes in the ankle and spine. The severity of knee osteoarthritis and the patient's gender, age, and BMI impact compensatory adaptations. CTRI/2021/08/036088 [Registered on: 31/08/2021] - Trial Registered Prospectively.

Success and safety of neonatal endotracheal tube exchanges: a NEAR4NEOS multicentre retrospective cohort study

ObjectivesTo compare success and safety of endotracheal tube (ETT) exchanges with primary intubations and identify factors associated with ETT exchange outcomes.DesignRetrospective observational study of prospectively collected National Emergency Airway Registry...

Evaluating Tuberculosis Awareness and Screening Outcomes among Household Contacts of Index Cases: A Cross-Sectional Study in Ghana

This study assessed TB prevalence and factors affecting screening among household contacts in Ga West Municipality, Ghana. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 107 household contacts of TB index cases identified from health facility records. A structured questionnaire collected data on demographics, TB knowledge, screening, and treatment status. Utilizing STATA 14, the statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and Pearson chi-square tests, with a significance level set at p &lt; 0.05. The mean age of participants was 35.7 years (SD ± 11.8), predominantly male (58.9%) and urban dwellers (78.5%). Of the participants, 57.9% were screened for TB, with a positive rate of 20% (n=9). Among those diagnosed, 88.9% (n=8) initiated treatment. Awareness of TB was high (90.7%), yet only 6.7% could identify five key symptoms of TB. Significant associations were found between educational level and TB awareness (χ²(4) = 17.237, p = 0.002), between residence and screening likelihood (χ²(1) = 4.26, p = 0.039), and individuals residing within 5 km of a health facility had a higher likelihood of being screened compared to those living farther away (χ²(1) = 10.41, p = 0.001). This study found that despite high awareness of TB transmission, screening rates among household contacts were low; enhanced outreach and education efforts are needed to improve knowledge and screening, particularly for urban residents. The predominance of male pulmonary cases was noted, highlighting the necessity for targeted efforts to mitigate TB transmission and further research on barriers to screening.

Prevalence of adherence and its impact on quality of life in oral anticoagulant users in Egypt: A cross-sectional study from two Egyptian university hospitals

BackgroundOral anticoagulant therapy (OAT) is critical for managing thromboembolic disorders, but adherence challenges significantly impact its effectiveness and patients’ quality of life (QoL). This study explores the predictors of adherence and their effects on QoL among OAT users in Egypt.MethodsThis multi-center cross-sectional descriptive study with an analytical component was conducted at Mansoura University Hospital and Ain Shams University Hospital. Participants were adults over 18 years old, on OAT for at least one month, who provided informed consent. Convenience sampling was used to recruit 212 participants. Data were collected using a survey that included socio-demographic details, the Arabic Version of the Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale (ARMS), and the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Student’s t-tests, and multivariate logistic regression.ResultsThe study included 212 participants, with an average age of 55 years, 57% female and 43% male. Among the participants, 25.5% were adherent to their anticoagulant regimen, while 74.5% were non-adherent. Adherence was significantly higher among NOAC users (44.4%) compared to warfarin users (19.0%). Key predictors of adherence included the use of NOACs (OR = 2.7), residency in rural areas (OR = 2.4), and having first-degree relatives in medical specialties (OR = 2.4). Quality of life scores were significantly higher for NOAC users in psychological, social, and environmental domains compared to warfarin users. The overall QoL score was also higher in NOAC users. Poorer adherence was associated with lower scores in these QoL domains.ConclusionsOur study indicates that NOACs enhance adherence and quality of life relative to VKAs. Key adherence predictors include NOAC use, rural residency, and having relatives in medical professions. Educational level, initially significant, did not persist as a predictor in multivariate analysis. Targeted strategies are needed to improve adherence and patient outcomes.

Three-dimensional evaluation of root canal morphology in mandibular premolars of Saudi individuals: a CBCT study.

In-depth knowledge of the anatomical structure of the root canal system is fundamental for successful endodontic treatment. This research aimed to evaluate the root canal structures of lower premolars in the Saudi western demographic via Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans. 760 CBCT scans were reviewed, which incorporated 2747 mandibular premolar teeth. SPSS was employed for descriptive statistics and Pearson chi-square tests. The Kappa tests were executed for intra- and inter-observer consistency. The number of roots, canals, and canal configurations based on Vertucci's classification were assessed. The study further explored the prevalence, patterns, and variations of the root canal systems, considering gender-based variations and bilateral resemblance. Predominantly, mandibular premolars possessed a single root, though a minority displayed two or three roots. The occurrence of multiple canals was also on the lower side, with the type I canal pattern emerging predominantly. Gender-based distinctions were evident, as males exhibited a higher frequency of two-rooted premolars and multiple canals than females. It was noted that the anatomical differences were more in the mandibular first premolars than in the second premolars. A significant bilateral consistency was observed, with most teeth showcasing consistent root and canal numbers. This research offers essential perspectives on the diverse nature and variability of root canal anatomy within the Saudi Western cohort, facilitating better understanding and treatment planning in endodontics.

Social Presence in Live-Streaming: Explore the Role of Audience Interaction in Traffic and Sales Conversions on TikTok

Live streaming has become a popular form of digital communication that combines entertainment, interaction, and commerce to redefine audience engagement. The study uses a mixed methodology that combines descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and feature importance assessment based on a comprehensive dataset of live streams collected over 6 months to explore the impact of audience engagement on traffic and sales. Linear regression, random forest regression, and support vector regression models were used to identify key predictors of traffic and sales. The study results show that the duration of the live streaming significantly increases the traffic. Audience interaction metrics (views and gift_count) are key factors in driving sales conversions. In addition, the study highlights the importance of account types (such as celebrity accounts) and product categories in engaging audiences and driving sales. By analyzing the findings based on the social presence theory, the study sheds light on how interactivity can promote audience engagement and drive purchasing behavior by satisfying the audience's psychological needs and enhancing social connections. This study provides a theoretical and practical basis for optimizing live-streaming content and interaction strategies and further expands the relevant research on live streaming in digital communication.

Application of Sensitivity &amp; Principal Component Analyses for Modelling of Safety Parameters for Oil &amp; Gas Companies in Niger Delta

This study assesses the sensitivity analysis in classical multiple regression models as well as those of the principal component regression, PCR models. The study is a cross-sectional research design and data collection was through questionnaire distribution to employees of Oil &amp; Gas indigenous (OGI) and multinational (OGM) companies in Niger Delta. The questionnaire was designed to obtain information from respondents on 7 safety constructs as independent variables against employee productivity as dependent variable. The questionnaire was designed using 5-point Likert scale, strongly agree, agree, disagree, strongly disagree and undecided with corresponding weighting of 5 – 1. The descriptive statistics featured the calculation of weighted arithmetic mean which served as input data for the calibration of both simple linear regression models, multiple principal component regression models and classical multiple regression models, respectively. SPSS was employed to calculate Cronbach's alpha coefficients, assessing the internal consistency of the research constructs; while XLSTAT, was used for principal component analysis, PCA &amp; principal component regression, PCR. The relationship between the slope of simple linear regression equation for 7 independent variables/constructs were examined with respect to the corresponding goodness of fit. The result showed that the simple linear regression models of the Employee Productivity as dependent variable against each of the 7 independent variables (Employee Involvement, Management Commitment, Safety Compliance, Safety Knowledge, Safety Participation, Safety Promotional Policies &amp; Safety Training) yielded positive slope values for both OGI &amp; OGM. In contrast to the classical multiple regression model, for which the total goodness of fit value for the 7 constructs for OGI = 44.9 &amp; 48.4% for OGM; the simple linear models for the same 7 construct yielded total goodness of fit of 81.2 &amp; 171.1% for OGI &amp; OGM, respectively. The total goodness of fit values for the simple linear regression were not only greater than those of classical multiple regression models, but exceeded 100% limit in classical multiple regression models. The principal component regression models established in this study is a variable reduction technique. Given that all the R2 values of PCR models (i.e. 3 &amp; 4 constructs) are superior to the equivalent R2 values extracted from sensitivity values of classical multiple regression models; the reason is on the manner of solving the resulting simultaneous equations arising from those of PCR and classical multiple regression. The PCR modelling adopts the optimization technique, using XLSTAT version 16 in this study; while the classical multiple regression modelling utilizes the Gaussian method of solving the simultaneous linear equations. Therefore, the optimization method of solution of simultaneous equations using XLSTAT software is recommended.

ChatGPT for Univariate Statistics: Validation of AI-Assisted Data Analysis in Healthcare Research.

ChatGPT, a conversational artificial intelligence developed by OpenAI, has rapidly become an invaluable tool for researchers. With the recent integration of Python code interpretation into the ChatGPT environment, there has been a significant increase in the potential utility of ChatGPT as a research tool, particularly in terms of data analysis applications. This study aimed to assess ChatGPT as a data analysis tool and provide researchers with a framework for applying ChatGPT to data management tasks, descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics. A subset of the National Inpatient Sample was extracted. Data analysis trials were divided into data processing, categorization, and tabulation, as well as descriptive and inferential statistics. For data processing, categorization, and tabulation assessments, ChatGPT was prompted to reclassify variables, subset variables, and present data, respectively. Descriptive statistics assessments included mean, SD, median, and IQR calculations. Inferential statistics assessments were conducted at varying levels of prompt specificity ("Basic," "Intermediate," and "Advanced"). Specific tests included chi-square, Pearson correlation, independent 2-sample t test, 1-way ANOVA, Fisher exact, Spearman correlation, Mann-Whitney U test, and Kruskal-Wallis H test. Outcomes from consecutive prompt-based trials were assessed against expected statistical values calculated in Python (Python Software Foundation), SAS (SAS Institute), and RStudio (Posit PBC). ChatGPT accurately performed data processing, categorization, and tabulation across all trials. For descriptive statistics, it provided accurate means, SDs, medians, and IQRs across all trials. Inferential statistics accuracy against expected statistical values varied with prompt specificity: 32.5% accuracy for "Basic" prompts, 81.3% for "Intermediate" prompts, and 92.5% for "Advanced" prompts. ChatGPT shows promise as a tool for exploratory data analysis, particularly for researchers with some statistical knowledge and limited programming expertise. However, its application requires careful prompt construction and human oversight to ensure accuracy. As a supplementary tool, ChatGPT can enhance data analysis efficiency and broaden research accessibility.

Protocol for a systematic review of economic evaluations considering costs and health outcomes of weather and climate-related extreme events in humans

BackgroundExtreme weather and climate-related events are increasing in frequency and intensity, which pose substantial human casualties and economic losses. The healthcare and health-determining sectors require information about how extreme weather...

The prevalence, types, and risk factors of urinary incontinence among Bangladeshi women aged 15-49: A study based on a nationally representative survey.

To estimate the prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI), its subtypes, and the associated risk factors in women of reproductive age in Bangladesh. Data from the 2016 Bangladesh Maternal Mortality and Health Care Survey was analyzed in a nationally representative sample of 298 284 households that used a multistage sample selection procedure. Data on 183 560 ever-married women aged 15-49 years who had ever given birth were analyzed. Descriptive statistics was used to report the overall prevalence of any UI and its three subtypes: stress, urge, and mixed UI. The wealth index of each household was constructed using principal component analysis. Univariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the factors associated with each type of UI. The prevalence of any UI was 15.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]:15.7-16.1). Stress incontinence was the most prevalent UI (8.3%, 95% CI: 8.2-8.4), followed by mixed type (5.5%, 95% CI: 5.4-5.6), and urge incontinence (2.1%, 95% CI: 2.1-2.2). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, older age, no or less education, younger age at first birth, higher parity, lower wealth status, self-reported pelvic organ prolapse (POP), and being Muslim had a significant positive association with the presence of UI. About one in six women reported to have suffered from any type of UI in this study. Several common risk factors were found, which call for targeted policy and programmatic interventions.

Outcomes of intramedullary nailing versus plate fixation for humeral shaft fractures: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundHumeral shaft fractures account for 1–3% of all bone fractures. Conservative treatment often leads to complications such as non-union and shoulder stiffness. Surgical fixation with a dynamic compression plate (DCP) has been the gold standard treatment. Intramedullary nailing (IMN) has recently gained popularity due to its minimally invasive approach and reduced risk of radial nerve injury. This study aims to compare the outcomes of IMN and plate fixation for humeral shaft fractures.MethodsThis retrospective study included patients with humeral shaft fractures treated with either IMN or DCP fixation at Hamad General Hospital between April 2015 and October 2018. Patient demographics, fracture characteristics, surgical outcomes, and complications were collected. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize patient information, and univariate analysis was conducted to compare both groups. A Cox proportional hazards model, adjusted for age, gender, and polytrauma status was applied to compare time to union between IMN and DCP groups.ResultsSixty five patients (25 IMN, 40 plate fixation) were included. Non-union rates were higher in the DCP group than in the IMN group (13% vs. 4%). Reoperation rates were also higher in the DCP group (20% vs. 4%). Postoperative neuropathy rates were 4% for IMN and 10% for DCP, with neuropathy resolution significantly higher in the IMN group (92% vs. 68%). Shoulder range of motion (ROM) and pain favored the DCP group, with 98% unaffected ROM in the plate group compared to 76% in the IMN group (p = 0.007), and a lower incidence of shoulder pain (28% vs. 98%, p < 0.001). Time to union was comparable between both groups, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.08 (95% CI 0.62–1.90; p = 0.776).ConclusionIMN and plate fixation effectively achieved fracture union; however, plate fixation was associated with better shoulder function, reduced pain, and higher reoperation rates. IMN was linked to a lower risk of nerve injury but compromised shoulder ROM and resulted in more postoperative pain.

Determining the effects of social media engagement on surgery residents within the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons.

The widespread adoption of social media has transformed how individuals connect in medicine. This study explores how social media can be utilized as a conduit to connect osteopathic medical students and residents. By examining how these digital connections can support professional development, this study investigates social media's role as a potential foundation for a mentorship program, fostering guidance, support, and career insights for osteopathic medical students within the surgical field. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of "X" (formerly Twitter) in networking between osteopathic medical students and surgical residents, specifically assessing engagement rates and the potential of social media as a tool for mentorship in the osteopathic surgical community. The Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-approved surgical programs that the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons (ACOS) represents were identified online. Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) residents were identified retrospectively through an online search of publicly available data. Residents and programs were searched through X, and account handles were collected. Residents were contacted through X by direct messaging and subsequently directly commented in the initial ACOS Medical Student Section (ACOS-MSS) message. Descriptive statistics along with the chi-square and Fisher's exact statistical tests were utilized for demographic and categorical variable analysis, respectively. There are 1179 DO surgical residents in ACGME programs, with 84.8 % of those being General Surgery residents. Among residents, 75 % of Cardiothoracic (CT) Surgery, 46.4 % of Urology, 28.6 % of Neurosurgery, 17.3 % of General Surgery, and 11.11 % of Plastic Surgery residents have X accounts. Specific surgical subspecialties are more likely to have an X account in comparison to General Surgery, including CT Surgery (odds ratio [OR], 11.13; p=0.02), Urology (OR, 4.13; p<0.0001), and Neurosurgery (OR, 0.842; p=0.047). After multiple attempts, 0 % of Plastic Surgery, 2.9 % of General Surgery, 7.8 % of Urology, 18.8 % of Neurosurgery, and 33.3 % of CT Surgery residents signed up for the mentorship program, totaling 13 residents. The study reveals low social media engagement via X among osteopathic surgical residents, with notable variation across surgical specialties. This limited engagement suggests exploring and refining social media strategies that foster mentorship connections within the osteopathic surgical community. Future studies should examine other social media platforms and alternative engagement approaches to enhance the reach and impact of mentorship initiatives, ultimately supporting osteopathic medical students as they navigate career paths in surgery.

Diagnostic and safety value of ultrasound-guided transthoracic core needle biopsy for mediastinal masses: a single-center experience.

US-guided (Ultrasound-guided) percutaneous transthoracic core needle biopsy (CNB) is a favorable method for establishing the correct diagnosis of mediastinal masses. However, studies in this area are scant and often include small samples, thus making it difficult to provide robust evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of this procedure. Thus, we aimed to report on the 20 years of experience at our center with regard to US-guided CNB.We included all consecutive patients referred to our center to undergo US-guided percutaneous transthoracic CNB for a mediastinal mass between 1999 and 2022. Descriptive statistics were used to display data. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to inquire about predictors of diagnostic sampling.The final cohort included 140 patients with a median age of 37 years. In 20.7% of the cases, the mediastinal mass was an incidental finding. The parasternal approach was used most often. US-guided CNB was diagnostic in 84.3% of the patients and most of the diagnoses included hematological neoplasms. The reasons for non-diagnostic sampling included firm lesion consistency, low quantity of samples, and lesion necrosis. The parasternal approach resulted in an independent predictor of diagnostic sampling (AOR 4.16, 95% CI 1.14-15.23, p=0.031), while a bulky feature revealed only a trend for diagnostic sampling. One non-severe adverse event occurred, with spontaneous resolution.US-guided percutaneous transthoracic CNB is an effective and safe procedure that allows the diagnosis of mediastinal masses. The identification of patients that could benefit from this technique should be the next step in researching this topic.