Improve Health Care Outcomes Research Articles

Strengthening neurosurgical training programs in Sub-saharan Africa: a medical student's perspective.

This article provides a nuanced exploration of the state and exigencies of neurosurgical training in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), viewed through the discerning lens of a medical student. The region has a pronounced scarcity of neurosurgical services, further compounded by sociocultural intricacies and infrastructural inadequacies, resulting in elevated mortality and morbidity rates. The insufficiency of neurosurgeons, facilities, and training centers, particularly in remote areas, exacerbates this predicament. The imperative to fortify neurosurgical training programs is underscored, necessitating a multifaceted approach inclusive of international collaborations and innovative strategies. The challenges impeding neurosurgical training program implementation range from constrained infrastructure to faculty shortages and financial constraints. Recommendations encompass infrastructural investments, faculty development initiatives, and augmented community engagement. An exploration of neurosurgical training programs across diverse African regions reveals commendable strides and imminent deficits, warranting heightened international collaboration. Furthermore, technological innovations, including virtual reality, robotics, and artificial intelligence, are posited as transformative conduits for augmenting neurosurgical training in SSA. The article concludes with a sagacious compendium of recommendations, encompassing standardized curricula, mentorship paradigms, and stringent evaluation mechanisms, all combining efficaciously fortifying neurosurgical insight in SSA and producing transformative improvements in healthcare outcomes.

Hair & Scalp Disease Detection Using Machine Learning & Image Processing

This study predicts hair disorders and provides tailored therapeutic suggestions using a deep learning model based on the VGG (Visual Geometry Group) architecture. A common dermatological problem, hair diseases can have a big impact on a person's physical and mental well-being. Early and accurate diagnosis as well as tailored treatment recommendations are essential for effective management. Inspired by the VGG design, we built a convolutional neural network (CNN) model in this study to analyze images of hair and scalp conditions. The model was trained using a vast and diverse set of images depicting various hair and scalp conditions. Transfer learning was used to modify the pre-trained VGG model so that it could recognize particular characteristics associated with particular hair issues. The prediction model consistently and reliably recognized a variety of hair problems that included dandruff, fungal infections, and alopecia. Reduction of false-positive and false negative outcomes in diagnosing diseases is dependent on high sensitivity and specificity. The suggested AI-based system has the potential to transform the dermatology field by providing prompt and accurate diagnosis of hair diseases and customized treatment recommendations. This study contributes to the ongoing efforts to use artificial intelligence and deep learning to improve healthcare outcomes, especially in the dermatology and skincare domains. Key Words: Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Deep Learning, Hair Disorders, Visual Geometry Group (VGG).

Association of geographical disparities and segregation in regional treatment facilities for Black patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in the United States.

This study investigates geographic disparities in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) care for Black patients and aims to explore the association with segregation in treatment facilities. Understanding these dynamics can guide efforts to improve healthcare outcomes for marginalized populations. This cohort study evaluated regional differences in segregation for Black patients with aSAH and the association with geographic variations in disparities from 2016 to 2020. The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was queried for admission data on aSAH. Black patients were compared to White patients. Segregation in treatment facilities was calculated using the dissimilarity (D) index. Using multivariable logistic regression models, the regional disparities in aSAH treatment, functional outcomes, mortality, and end-of-life care between Black and White patients and the association of geographical segregation in treatment facilities was assessed. 142,285 Black and White patients were diagnosed with aSAH from 2016 to 2020. The Pacific division (D index = 0.55) had the greatest degree of segregation in treatment facilities, while the South Atlantic (D index = 0.39) had the lowest. Compared to lower segregation, regions with higher levels of segregation (global F test p < 0.001) were associated a lower likelihood of mortality (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.82-1.00, p = 0.044 vs. OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.68-0.83, p < 0. 001) (p = 0.049), greater likelihood of tracheostomy tube placement (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.22-1.73, p < 0.001 vs. OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.59-2.21, p < 0.001) (p < 0. 001), and lower likelihood of receiving palliative care (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.76-0.93, p < 0.001 vs. OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.59-0.77, p < 0.001) (p = 0.029). This study demonstrates regional differences in disparities for Black patients with aSAH, particularly in end-of-life care, with varying levels of segregation in regional treatment facilities playing an associated role. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and policy changes to address systemic healthcare inequities, reduce segregation, and ensure equitable access to high-quality care for all patients.

Differentiating Prodromal Dementia with Lewy Bodies from Prodromal Alzheimer's Disease: A Pragmatic Review for Clinicians.

This pragmatic review synthesises the current understanding of prodromal dementia with Lewy bodies (pDLB) and prodromal Alzheimer's disease (pAD), including clinical presentations, neuropsychological profiles, neuropsychiatric symptoms, biomarkers, and indications for disease management. The core clinical features of dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB)-parkinsonism, complex visual hallucinations, cognitive fluctuations, and REM sleep behaviour disorder are common prodromal symptoms. Supportive clinical features of pDLB include severe neuroleptic sensitivity, as well as autonomic and neuropsychiatric symptoms. The neuropsychological profile in mild cognitive impairment attributable to Lewy body pathology (MCI-LB) tends to include impairment in visuospatial skills and executive functioning, distinguishing it from MCI due to AD, which typically presents with impairment in memory. pDLB may present with cognitive impairment, psychiatric symptoms, and/or recurrent episodes of delirium, indicating that it is not necessarily synonymous with MCI-LB. Imaging, fluid and other biomarkers may play a crucial role in differentiating pDLB from pAD. The current MCI-LB criteria recognise low dopamine transporter uptake using positron emission tomography or single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), loss of REM atonia on polysomnography, and sympathetic cardiac denervation using meta-iodobenzylguanidine SPECT as indicative biomarkers with slowing of dominant frequency on EEG among others as supportive biomarkers. This review also highlights the emergence of fluid and skin-based biomarkers. There is little research evidence for the treatment of pDLB, but pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for DLB may be discussed with patients. Non-pharmacological interventions such as diet, exercise, and cognitive stimulation may provide benefit, while evaluation and management of contributing factors like medications and sleep disturbances are vital. There is a need to expand research across diverse patient populations to address existing disparities in clinical trial participation. In conclusion, an early and accurate diagnosis of pDLB or pAD presents an opportunity for tailored interventions, improved healthcare outcomes, and enhanced quality of life for patients and care partners.

Strengthening healthcare delivery in Rwanda: Implementation science training for reproductive health researchers

BackgroundAddressing the gap between research and practice is crucial for enhancing reproductive healthcare outcomes. In Rwanda and other low- and middle-income countries, bolstering health researchers’ implementation science (IS) capacity is essential. We present a pre-post-intervention study assessing the influence of an intensive IS training program on Rwandan reproductive health researchers’ perceived IS knowledge and self-efficacy in applying IS in their own research. MethodsTo introduce IS principles, we held a one-day training for a diverse cohort of 25 sexual and reproductive health researchers in Rwanda. The training encompassed modules on IS concepts, methodologies, and practical applications. Pre- and post-training assessments gauged changes in participants’ perceived IS knowledge and self-efficacy in applying IS in their own work. ResultsThe study revealed a significant improvement in self-efficacy related to performing IS related tasks. Researchers reported heightened confidence in designing and implementing evidence-based interventions. In terms of perceived knowledge, participants retained what they learned at 4 months. The training fostered a collaborative learning environment, encouraging participants to exchange ideas and experiences. ConclusionTargeted training in IS appears to enhance reproductive health researchers’ capacity to translate research into practice, potentially leading to improved healthcare outcomes in Rwanda. Moving forward, we advocate for the Ministry of Health to establish structures for IS research agenda-setting, particularly for sexual and reproductive health and rights. Ideally, universities, health systems, and research institutions will incorporate IS capacity strengthening into their routine activities. Ongoing training is crucial to reinforce and expand IS knowledge. Our findings are expected to inform future interventions and guide policy development.

Implementation of Formative Assessment ‘for’ Learning: A Review

Background: Assessment is fundamental to medical education, driving student learning and ensuring that key objectives are met. Formative assessment, in particular, serves as both an instructional strategy and an assessment tool, aiding in the consolidation of learning. Objective: The objective of this narrative review was to examine the implementation of formative assessment in medical education, with a focus on its role in fostering deep learning, enhancing learning outcomes, and preparing students for real-world clinical challenges. Methods: This narrative review synthesized existing evidence on formative assessment in medical education. The authors employed a systematic approach to identify relevant literature using search strings such as "formative assessment in medical education" and "assessment for learning." Databases searched included PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Inclusion criteria were studies examining formative assessment practices in medical education, while exclusion criteria included studies focusing solely on summative assessment or unrelated to medical education. Results: The findings highlighted the effectiveness of formative assessment in promoting deep learning, providing feedback, and addressing learning difficulties. Bloom's concept of mastery learning underscored the importance of diagnosing learning difficulties through formative evaluations. Consistent low scores on assessments were attributed to various factors, which were effectively addressed through weekly formative assessments. The review emphasized the need for formative assessment in medical education, balanced with summative assessment, while acknowledging challenges related to faculty training, resource limitations, and cultural emphasis on summative assessment. Conclusion: Balanced implementation of formative and summative assessments in medical education enhances learning outcomes, promotes intrinsic motivation, and ensures that future healthcare professionals are well-prepared, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare outcomes and patient experiences.

Practice variation in urine collection methods among pre-toilet trained children with suspected urinary tract infection: a systematic review

BackgroundUrinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common cause of acute illness among infants and young children. There are numerous methods for collecting urine in children who are not toilet trained. This review examined practice variation in the urine collection methods for diagnosing UTI in non-toilet-trained children.MethodsA systematic review was completed by searching MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CENTRAL (Ovid), PsycInfo (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), and JBI (Ovid) from January 1, 2000 until October 9, 2021 and updated on May 24, 2023. Studies were included if they were conducted in an acute care facility, examined pre-toilet trained children, and compared one urine collection method with another for relevant health care outcomes (such as length of stay in an ED, or re-visits or readmissions to the ED) or provider satisfaction. Two independent reviewers screened the identified articles independently, and those included in the final analysis were assessed for quality and bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.ResultsOverall, 2535 articles were reviewed and 8 studies with a total of 728 children were included in the final analysis. Seven studies investigated the primary outcome of interest, practice variation in urine collection methods to diagnose a UTI. The seven studies that investigated novel methods of urine collection concluded that there were improved health care outcomes compared to conventional methods. Novel methods include emerging methods that are not captured yet captured in clinical practice guidelines including the use of ultrasound guidance to aid existing techniques. Three studies which investigated healthcare provider satisfaction found preference to novel methods of urine collection.ConclusionsThere is significant practice variation in the urine collection methods within and between countries. Further research is needed to better examine practice variation among clinicians and adherence to national organizations and societies guidelines. PROSPERO registration number CRD42021267754.

Children with Down syndrome and health management information system

This study examines the use of electronic systems to improve health care for people with Down syndrome in the midst of fast-paced advancements in information technology. It notes that current systems often fail to fully recognize the intellectual abilities of individuals with Down syndrome, especially concerning their health needs. The research highlights the importance of health management information systems (HMIS) in managing patient information effectively. It suggests creating detailed databases that include essential details like diagnoses, analyses, reports, and specific patient information. The goal is to address ongoing health issues and ensure that health services are efficient and uphold high professional standards. This study points out the value of using existing health data for immediate analysis to move health services toward a more professional and electronic future. This work adds to the discussion on technology-driven health management, showing how information systems can be used to improve healthcare outcomes.

Evaluating knowledge management practices in a hospital pharmacy: A comprehensive investigation

Background: Knowledge management practices in healthcare settings play a crucial role in improving patient care quality and operational efficiency. However, the understanding and implementation of these practices in Oshakati Hospital pharmacy, Namibia, remain unclear. Methods: A structured questionnaire was administered to 26 participants, including pharmacists, pharmacist interns, and pharmacist assistants, to assess knowledge-sharing frequency, documentation practices, technology effectiveness, and the overall knowledge management effectiveness. Results: The study found no significant relationship between work experience and knowledge management practices, indicating potential gaps in understanding and implementation of knowledge management strategies. Participants showed moderate attitudes towards knowledge sharing, with technology perceived as moderately effective in facilitating knowledge management. Conclusion: Enhancing knowledge management practices at Oshakati Hospital pharmacy is crucial to address existing gaps, improve collaboration, and elevate pharmaceutical care standards in the region. Implementing a comprehensive health information system and integrating innovative technologies can enhance knowledge extraction and patient interactions, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes.

Enhancing Efficiency, Improving Care: Exploring Patient Opinions on Hospital Social Work

Purpose: This study investigates patient perceptions of factors influencing the efficiency of hospital social work services. Specifically, it explores the perceived role of social workers in addressing patients' psychosocial needs and identifies potential strategies for enhancing service efficiency. By understanding the patient perspective, this research aims to illuminate the impact of various factors on social work effectiveness and ultimately contribute to improved patient care delivery. Methods: A convenience sampling technique was employed to recruit 130 patients from Trung Vuong Hospital who participated in a self-administered survey assessing their perspectives on hospital social work services. The survey comprised two scales: one evaluating factors affecting social work efficiency and another proposing measures for improvement. Descriptive statistics were utilized for data analysis. Results: Patient perceptions identified "patient needs" and "knowledge and skills of medical staff, doctors, and social workers" as the most critical factors impacting hospital social work efficiency. This underscores the importance of ongoing professional development for social workers and ensuring adequate staffing levels. Proposed strategies for improvement included: enhanced professional training for social workers, fostering effective communication regarding social work services available to patients, and the expansion of external resource networks to provide comprehensive support for patients facing complex challenges. Conclusion: This study sheds light on critical areas for optimizing hospital social work efficiency, highlighting the importance of strategic staffing decisions, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and prioritizing continuous professional development for social workers. By integrating patient feedback into service delivery models, social work departments can enhance patient support and contribute to improved healthcare outcomes. Future research efforts should strive for broader generalizability by incorporating diverse healthcare settings and soliciting the perspectives of a wider range of stakeholders. This will provide a more comprehensive understanding of social work effectiveness in the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery.

Factors and Reasons Associated With Appointment Non-attendance in Hospitals: A Narrative Review.

Non-attendance at hospital appointments is an extremely prevalent issue impacting healthcare systems on a daily basis. This phenomenon adversely affects patient health and healthcare providers, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment, inefficient resource utilization, and increased healthcare expenses. The detrimental impact of non-attendance is not limited to patients who miss appointments, the knock-on effects of extended waiting times and reduced appointment availability are felt throughout healthcare systems. The purpose of this narrative review is to explore the factors underlying appointment non-attendance in hospital settings, to improve healthcare delivery and patient adherence. An extensive review of the existing global literature was conducted. Quantitative studies that explored the relationship between appointment non-attendance and patient characteristics, such as age, gender, marital status, education level, distance from the hospital, and source of referral, were included. Younger patients, males, individuals with lower levels of education, and those living farther from hospitals were more likely to miss appointments. Marital status was significant, with married patients showing better attendance, as was referral source, with general practitioner referrals associated with higher non-attendance. Qualitative studies identifying both patient-centered and hospital-specific reasons, such as forgetfulness, appointment time, protracted waiting times, patient-physician relationship, and patients' knowledge and perception of their health condition, were also included in the review. Lack of appointment reminders, difficulties in managing appointments, and inadequate patient-physician communication were significant hospital-specific reasons given for non-attendance. Patients' lack of awareness regarding the importance of attending appointments and limited understanding of their health conditions were also identified as patient-centered contributors. Non-attendance at hospital appointments is a multifaceted issue influenced by a range of socioeconomic, personal, and systemic factors. Addressing these factors requires a holistic approach that includes patient education, improved communication, and tailored healthcare delivery strategies, especially for vulnerable populations in rural areas. Enhanced reminder systems and streamlined appointment management could serve as pivotal interventions to reduce non-attendance rates, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes and resource utilization.

The role of advanced practice nurses in improving healthcare outcomes for patients with chronic kidney disease: A scoping review protocol.

The number of patients with chronic kidney disease is increasing worldwide; previous studies have suggested that advanced practice nurses, including nurse practitioners and clinical nurse specialists, with expert practice skills can provide high-quality care and solve complex healthcare problems. In general, nurse practitioners are generalist nurses who work as autonomous clinicians with whole personal care. Clinical nurse specialists, in contrast, are nurses with advanced nursing knowledge and skills for individuals or specific populations. Their roles are independent and different; however, similarities exist in their role in potentially improving healthcare outcomes. Although two previous studies described the role of nephrology nurse practitioners, they were systematic reviews, and their outcomes were limited. To clarify the overall aspect of advanced practice nurses' role, it is necessary to extract the studies illustrating advanced practice nurses' practices for patients with chronic kidney disease. This study aims to map the literature describing the role of advanced practice nurses in improving healthcare outcomes for patients with chronic kidney disease. This scoping review will be conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping review. Online databases will be searched across MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science. Only studies published in English will be included, and no date limit will be set. Chronic kidney disease, renal replacement therapy, and advanced practice nurses as keywords and related search terms will be used. Two independent reviewers will screen the title and abstract/full-text; in case of discrepancy, a third reviewer will make the final decision. The results will be extracted and presented following the review question concerning the study characteristics, patients' characteristics, condition of chronic kidney disease, and role of advanced practice nurses.

Emergency medical services (EMS) infrastructure development and operations in low- and middle-income countries: Formal, professional-driven (Tier-2) systems

The World Health Organization recognized timely healthcare as a human right and called for the expansion of two-tiered prehospital and out-of-hospital emergency care systems in low- and middle-income countries. Tier-1 systems involve community-based first responder care, and Tier-2 systems involve more formalized emergency medical services designed as a sustainable system of services, including dedicated ambulances, personnel, and equipment. Tier-2 systems can play a crucial role in reducing mortality and disability due to emergency medical and surgical conditions worldwide. However, the implementation and operation of robust Tier-2 systems in low- and middle-income countries face significant challenges. This article examines the current state, challenges, and opportunities of Tier-2 system development and operations in low- and middle-income countries, highlighting the limited coverage and resourcing of existing systems.The challenges faced in developing Tier-2 systems in low- and middle-income countries include a lack of global awareness, financial constraints, regulatory and planning issues, cultural appropriateness, and workforce shortages. Additionally, the availability and maintenance of equipment, technology, transportation, facilities, and interfacility transfers pose significant hurdles. Localized adaptation of emergency medical services models to suit the diverse contexts of different low- and middle-income countries is critical, as are community partnerships in navigating the complexities of specific communities.Furthermore, Tier-2 systems in low- and middle-income countries should prioritize alignment with national policies and integration into their broader healthcare systems. There is also a need for innovative financial sustainability approaches, such as private-public partnerships and cost-sharing schemes, to overcome the upfront costs of establishing Tier-2 system infrastructure.Additionally, strategies for strengthening the emergency medical services workforce, including targeted recruitment and training, are explored. By addressing these challenges and opportunities, Tier-2 systems in low- and middle-income countries can better operate within their available resources and potentially contribute to improved healthcare outcomes. The sharing of best practices and collaborative networks between systems in low- and middle-income countries will also be critical for the development of Tier-2 system infrastructure in these areas.

Examining the Perceptions of mHealth on Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Postpartum Health for Black Women: A Scoping Review.

Background. Several disparities exist for Black mothers during the postpartum period, including but not limited to increased maternal mortality and morbidity rates, decreased access to care, and limited access to resources. Given the racial discrepancies in attention to postpartum care, coupled with the critical importance of the postpartum period for preventing adverse maternal health outcomes, research is warranted to explore how mobile health (mHealth) applications may help to alleviate maternal health disparities by optimizing postpartum care and addressing barriers to care for postpartum Black women. Thus, this review examines the perceptions of mHealth applications and their utility in health outcomes among postpartum Black women. Methods. We undertook a comprehensive literature search using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We included peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2022 that were written in English, utilized mHealth as a primary intervention, and focused on postpartum health and access to resources, primarily among Black women in the United States. Results. A total of eight articles were included in our synthesis, encompassing mobile phone-based interventions for Black women. Cultural tailoring was included in five studies. Interventions that incorporated tailored content and fostered interactions reported high rates of follow-up. Conclusions. Tailored mHealth interventions can effectively promote behavior change and improve health care outcomes for Black women. However, there is a critical need for more research to assess user engagement and retention and whether these improvements indicate long-term sustainability.

Prediksi Diabetes Menggunakan Algoritma Naive Bayes Menggunakan Rapidminer

Diabetes, the fastest-growing life-threatening disease, presents significant global health challenges, with 3.8 million annual deaths and affecting 422 million individuals worldwide. This study employs RapidMiner, a popular data mining tool, to analyze a public diabetes dataset. Addressing common dataset challenges such as extraneous features, efficient feature selection, and algorithm implementation, the research introduces a novel approach utilizing the Naive Bayes algorithm. Despite inherent complexities, the Naive Bayes model achieves a commendable accuracy rate of 75.51%, showcasing its applicability in diabetic data analysis within the RapidMiner environment. This research sheds light on the potential of integrating RapidMiner and data mining techniques to advance our understanding and management of diabetes-related data, thereby contributing to improved healthcare outcomes and patient well-being.

Applying Advanced Practice Nurses in Rural Japan: A Mixed-Methods Perspective.

Introduction Rural hospitals, particularly those in geographically isolated regions like Shimane Prefecture, Japan, face significant healthcare delivery challenges. These include limited resources, an aging population, and a scarcity of healthcare professionals. Advanced practice nurses (APNs) have emerged as pivotal in addressing these gaps, offering specialized patient assessment, diagnosis, and management skills. This study aimed to evaluate the demand for APNs in rural community hospitals, focusing on the specific educational needs and clinical competencies required to improve healthcare outcomes in these settings. Method Employing a mixed-methods approach, this research combined qualitative insights from stakeholder interviews with quantitative data analysis of electronic health records (EHRs) at Unnan City Hospital. This sequential exploratory design aimed to capture comprehensive educational needs and outcomes, integrating the depth of qualitative data with the breadth of quantitative evidence to tailor a curriculum for APNs in rural healthcare contexts. Results The study revealed a critical demand for APNs skilled in managing common medical issues in rural settings, such as infections, circulatory failures, and respiratory problems. Stakeholder interviews highlighted the necessity for a curriculum that enhances clinical competencies and emphasizes soft skills like communication and leadership. An analysis of EHRs identified 21 specific diseases across six categories, underlining the importance of targeted education on these prevalent conditions. Conclusion The findings underscore the urgent need for specialized education programs for APNs in rural hospitals to address these communities' unique healthcare challenges. Developing a curriculum that focuses on clinical and soft skills essential for rural healthcare delivery can significantly enhance the quality of care. This study advocates for implementing such tailored educational programs to empower APNs, thereby contributing to healthcare equity and improving patient outcomes in rural settings.

Patient flow modeling and simulation to study HAI incidence in an Emergency Department

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), or nosocomial infections, refer to patients getting new infections while getting treatment for an existing condition in a healthcare facility. HAI poses a significant challenge in healthcare delivery that results in higher rates of mortality and morbidity as well as a longer duration of hospital stay. While the real cause of HAI in a hospital varies widely and in most cases untraceable, it is popularly believed that patient flow in a hospital—which hospital units patients visit and where they spend the most time since their admission into the hospital—can trace back to HAI incidence in the hospital. Based on this observation, we, in this paper, model and simulate patient flow in an emergency department of a hospital and then utilize the developed model to study HAI incidence therein. We obtain (a) a flowchart of patient movement (admission to discharge) and (b) anonymous patient data from University Health Medical Center for a duration of 11 months (Aug 2022–June 2023). Based on these data, we develop and validate the patient flow model. Our model captures patient movement in different areas of a typical emergency department, such as triage, waiting room, and minor procedure rooms. We employ the discrete-event simulation (DES) technique to model patient flow and associated HAI infections using the simulation software, Anylogic. Our simulation results show that the rates of HAI incidence are proportional to both the specific areas patients occupy and the duration of their stay. By utilizing our model, hospital administrators and infection control teams can implement targeted strategies to reduce the incidence of HAI and enhance patient safety, ultimately leading to improved healthcare outcomes and more efficient resource allocation.

IoT-Enabled Health Monitoring Systems: Transforming Healthcare Delivery

Abstract: The Internet of Things (IoT) technology integrated with healthcare has revolutionized the way we monitor and manage health. This research paper presents a comprehensive study and exploration of a Health Monitoring System (HMS) built upon using IoT technologies and principles. The HMS offers numerous advantages, which includes, reduced healthcare cost increased accessibility to healthcare services, enhanced patient outcomes, ultimately improving the quality of life. The core features of the HMS include a diverse array of IoT devices such as wearable sensors, smart medical equipment, and smartphones, which collect real-time health data. This data is then seamlessly transmitted, using advanced communication protocols, to centralized servers for analysis and interpretation. The system employs sophisticated data analytics and machine learning algorithms, providing healthcare professionals with invaluable insights into patient health. The technical architecture of the HMS is clarifying, illuminate on how these components synergic operate to create a robust system. However, we also address potential challenges and limitations, encompassing security concerns, data privacy, and scalability issues. These challenges underscore the importance of a balanced approach to ensure patient data confidentiality and system reliability. In conclusion, this research highlights the transformative potential of IoT-driven Health Monitoring Systems. The implications of integrating these two field helps not only improved healthcare outcomes but also hefty cost savings and increased access to healthcare services.

Nanocellulose as Sustainable Bio-Nanomaterial for Packaging and Biomedical Applications

Fibrous substrates made of cellulose like paper and paperboard are widely used in packaging. Furthermore, cellulose materials are biodegradable and completely safe for the environment. The water vapor barrier properties of paper and paperboard are limited due to the hydrophilic nature of cellulose fibrils. Paper is frequently combined with other materials, such as plastics, wax, and aluminum to improve its water barrier properties. Unfortunately, these materials lead to significant environmental problems and are difficult to recycle. Nanocellulose has shown the potential of being a substitute natural nanomaterial for creating environmentally friendly and sustainable barrier materials for a range of uses, including food packaging materials and substrates for the development of functional materials. Numerous cellulose sources can be used to create nanocellulose, which offers benefits like a high aspect ratio and tensile strength, making it useful for a variety of applications. The production of nanocellulose is done through a variety of processes. Potential biomedical applications of nanocellulose are tissue engineering, drug delivery, wound dressings, biosensors, implants and prosthetics, and nerve regeneration. Its application in these fields will result in the advancement of medical technology and the improvement of healthcare outcomes. Furthermore, biodegradable materials, barrier coatings, antimicrobial packaging, sustainable packaging solutions, smart packaging, and lightweight, high-strength packaging can all be made with nanocellulose. Nanocellulose-based packaging will improve the sustainability and efficiency of the packaging supply chain while providing environmentally friendly substitutes for conventional packaging materials.

Pelvic Floor Disorders Among Minority Women: Differences in Prevalence, Severity and Health-Related Social Needs

ObjectiveTo characterize prevalence and severity of pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) in various healthcare settings and to examine unmet Health-related Social Needs (HRSN) among minority women. Materials and MethodsMinority women with PFDs were recruited from our academic urogynecology clinic (UG), a general urology clinic at our institution’s safety net hospital (SNH), and a community outreach mobile clinic (MC). Questions from the Urinary Distress Index-6 (UDI), Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory-6 (POPDI), and Female Genitourinary Pain Index (GUPI) were used to identify patients with stress urinary incontinence (SUI), overactive bladder (OAB) and chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS). Results61 (46.6%) women identified as Hispanic, 53 (40.4%) as Black, and 17 (12.9%) as Other. Overall, self-reported PFDs included SUI in 45%, OAB in 74.8%, and CPPS in 24.4% of women. Hispanic women were more likely to report OAB symptoms, compared to Black women (OR 3.4 [1.2-10.2], p = 0.03) or Other women (OR = 5.1 [1.3-20.4], p = 0.02). Participants held a median of five unmet HRSN. Minority women facing issues with family and community support, transportation, and utilities were more likely to report CPPS symptoms, compared to those without psychosocial issues (Support OR: 4.8 [1.7-13.7], p = 0.002; Transportation OR: 2.0 [1.0-8.2], p = 0.05; Utility OR: 7.0 [1.9-28.1], p = 0.005). ConclusionMinority women with PFDs may have several unmet HRSNs which impact their ability to receive appropriate medical care. Our findings may assist in the development of effective strategies to improve healthcare outcomes for women dealing with PFDs.