Acceptance Rate Research Articles

Silicone stent versus fully covered metallic stent in tracheoesophageal fistula: a single-center retrospective study

BackgroundIn cases of tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), closure of the fistula by tracheal stent implantation is an effective treatment. In this study, we investigated the efficacy and complications of silicone and metallic tracheal stents for TEF.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent tracheal stent insertion for TEF between January 2021 and April 2024 at our institution. Complications were assessed bronchoscopically.ResultsMetallic stents were placed in 21 patients (18 men, 85.7%) and silicone stents in 17 patients (14 men, 82.4%). No differences were observed between the two groups in terms of age, gender, location or size of fistula, primary disease, symptoms or comorbidities. A total of 26 fistulas were found in the metallic stent group, and 19 fistulas were found in the silicone stent group. Stent insertion was successful in all cases. The differences in efficacy and complications after stent placement were not statistically significant between the two groups. Mucus retention was the most frequent complication (P = 0.221), followed by granulation tissue (38.1% with metallic stent and 29.4% with silicone; P = 0.734) and migration (14.3% with metallic stent and 29.4% with silicone; P = 0.426).ConclusionsSilicone and metallic stents are viable clinical options for treating TEF. Both are equally effective and safe and have acceptable complication rates in TEF.

Pharmacist-led interventions for vascular surgery patients: a prospective study on reducing drug-related problems

BackgroundVascular surgery patients are at a high risk of polypharmacy and drug-related problems. Only a limited number of studies have explored the impact of hospital pharmacists being members of a multidisciplinary team in the care of vascular surgery patients. The clinical study (Trial Registration Number NCT04930302, 16th June 2021) aimed to assess the impact of pharmacist-led interventions on the prevalence of drug-related problems among patients hospitalised at the vascular surgery department.MethodsThe study, conducted at a specialised hospital in Slovakia during a 1-year period, included adult patients with carotid artery disease or lower extremity artery disease, taking ≥3 medications. Medication reconciliation and medication reviews were performed by hospital pharmacists at both admission and discharge. Pharmacist-proposed interventions were documented and communicated to the physician, patients were educated about their medications upon discharge.ResultsAmong our study participants (n = 105), the average number of drug-related problems at admission was 2.3 ± 2.1, significantly decreasing to 1.6 ± 1.8 at discharge (p < 0.001). The predominant drug classes associated with drug-related problems were those related to the cardiovascular system (41.9%). At admission, the most frequent drug-related problem was untreated indication (40.3%), mostly caused by the failure to prescribe statin in patients with lower extremity artery disease. The highest acceptance rate of pharmacist-led interventions was at hospital admission (66.1%). More than 50% of patients were classified as those with good understanding of their pharmacotherapy.ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that pharmacist-led interventions significantly reduce drug-related problems in vascular surgery patients during hospitalisation, contributing to patient safety and clinical outcomes.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Trial Registration Number: NCT04930302, 16th June 2021.

Surgery for an Uncommon Pathology: Pancreatic Metastases from Renal Cell Carcinoma—Indications, Type of Pancreatectomy, and Outcomes in a Single-Center Experience

Background and Objectives: The role of surgery in pancreatic metastases of renal cell carcinoma (PM_RCC) is highly controversial, particularly in the context of modern systemic therapies and the conflicting results of studies published so far. This study aims to explore a single surgical center experience (including mainly pancreatic resections) regarding the indications, the type of pancreatectomies, and early and long-term outcomes for PM_RCC. Materials and Methods: The data of all patients with surgery for PM_RCC (from 1 January 2002 to 31 December 2023) were retrospectively assessed, and potential predictors of survival were explored. Results: 20 patients underwent surgery for PM_RCC (pancreatectomies—95%). Metachronous PM_RCC was 90%, with a median interval between the initial nephrectomy and PM_RCC occurrence of 104 months. For elective pancreatectomies, the overall and severe morbidity and mortality rates were 24%, 12%, and 0%, respectively; 32% of patients underwent non-standardized pancreatic resections. The median survival of patients with negative resection margins was 128 months after pancreatectomies, with an 82% 5-year survival rate. Left kidney RCC and the body/tail PM_RCC were favorable prognostic factors for the overall survival after pancreatectomies for PM_RCC. Body/tail, asymptomatic PM_RCC, and an interval after initial nephrectomy &gt; 2 were favorable prognostic factors for the overall survival after initial nephrectomy for RCC. Conclusions: Pancreatectomies for PM_RCC can achieve long-term survival whenever complete resection is feasible, with acceptable complication rates. Patients with left kidney RCC, body/tail, and asymptomatic PM_RCC and an interval of more than 2 years after nephrectomy exhibit the best survival rates.

Development of Textbooks for Elementary School Curriculum Study and Development Course

This study aims to develop an elementary curriculum study and development textbook specifically designed for 5th-semester students in the Elementary School Teacher Education program. The textbook is aligned with the current syllabus and aims to improve students' conceptual understanding in the Elementary School Curriculum Study and Development course. To ensure that the textbook meets the needs of effective learning, this research uses the ADDIE model which includes 5 stages namely Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. The data collection technique uses a validation instrument in a semi-open questionnaire. The validation results showed high qualification scores from two experts: content and material (87.50%), presentation (89,06%), and language (87,50%). Small group trials involving 30 fifth-semester students taking the Elementary School Curriculum Study showed an average acceptance rate of 87,00%, indicating that the textbook was well-made and suitable for use. With this research, the results are obtained in the form of elementary school curriculum study and development textbooks that have been adapted to the development of the current educational paradigm.

Optimization of microwave-assisted extraction of bajra milk using response surface methodology

Millets, especially bajra, are known for their ability to thrive in harsh climates and resist pests. Bajra contains high nutritional values, including a high level of protein, fiber and essential minerals like iron, zinc, calcium and magnesium. Plant-based beverages such as bajra milk are becoming more popular as lactose-free, nutritious alternatives to dairy milk. Bajra milk is rich in antioxidants, phenolic acids and flavonoids, offering health benefits such as improved heart health, diabetes control and immune system support. Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) has proven to be an energy-efficient and a sustainable technique for producing plant-based milks like bajra milk. Compared to conventional methods, MAE reduces nutrient loss, speeds up the process and improves the protein content, viscosity and sensory acceptability. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the extraction processes, identifying ideal conditions of soaking time of 16 h, microwave time of 1.5 min and a temperature of 85 ?C. Under these parameters, the extraction yield was 70.23 %, with a protein content of 5.57 g/100 ml and an overall acceptability rating of 7.2. The aim of this present study is to use the RSM tool to optimize the microwave-assisted extraction of bajra milk and compare the physicochemical and nutritional properties of the conventional method and MAE, MAE bajra milk as a cost effective, ecofriendly solution for large scale plant-based milk production positioning bajra as a valuable alternative.

Surpass Streamline Flow Diverter for the Treatment of Craniocervical Unruptured Dissecting Aneurysms: A multi-institutional retrospective study.

Currently, there is no established treatment consensus for craniocervical unruptured dissecting aneurysms (UDAs). This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of the Surpass Streamline Flow Diverter (SSFD) for treating craniocervical UDAs. A retrospective review of three centers' databases was conducted to identify patients with craniocervical UDAs treated with SSFDs from January 2021 to December 2023. Data, including patient and aneurysm characteristics, procedure details, imaging findings, and follow-up data, were analyzed. The study included 35 patients with 35 craniocervical UDAs. The mean maximal length of the UDAs was 13.0 ± 6.0 mm, with 57% ranging from 10 to 25 mm. At a mean follow-up of 8.7 ± 2.5 months, the complete occlusion rate was 71% (25/35), with no recurrences detected. Perioperative complications occurred in 3 patients (9%), comprising ischemic stroke in 2 patients (6%) and hemorrhagic stroke in 1 patient (3%). All patients had a good clinical outcome at the 6-month follow-up (mRS < 3). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that aneurysmal dilation with stenosis (OR=0.034, 95% CI: 0.001 - 0.845; p=0.04) was a significant predictive factor for incomplete occlusion of treated aneurysms. Our findings suggest that SSFD is a safe and effective tool for craniocervical UDAs, demonstrating a high occlusion rate, acceptable complication rate, and good clinical outcome.

Research progress in Cup-cage reconstruction for patients with chronic pelvic discontinuity after total hip arthroplasty

To summarize research progress on application of Cup-cage reconstruction in revision of chronic pelvic discontinuity (CPD) in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). Relevant literature at home and abroad in recent years was reviewed to summarize the principles of the Cup-cage reconstruction, preoperative patient assessment, intraoperative skills, clinical and radiological effectiveness, limitations, and postoperative complications. For the treatment of CPD, the Cup-cage reconstruction achieved long-term acetabular cup bone ingrowth, CPD healing, and biologic fixation of the prosthesis by restoring pelvic continuity. Preoperative evaluation of the surgical site and general condition is necessary. The main intraoperative objectives are to reconstruct pelvic continuity, restore the center of rotation of the hip, and avoid neurovascular injury. Current studies have demonstrated significant clinical and radiological effectiveness as well as acceptable prosthesis survival rates after operation. Nevertheless, there is a lack of evidence regarding the staging of CPD, the optimal surgical approach and internal fixation, and the factors influencing postoperative prosthesis survival remain undefined. Cup-cage reconstruction can be an effective treatment for CPD after THA, but there is still a need to explore CPD staging, Cup-cage approach and internal fixation, and influencing factors on prosthesis survival.

PRISMA-7 is a predictor of intensive care unit admission and mortality in older patients in an emergency department.

To compare the performance of the Programme of Research on the Integration of Services for the Maintenance of Autonomy (PRISMA-7), which is used to assess the frailty of older patients visiting emergency departments, with the quick Sepsis Related Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) and Emergency Severity Index (ESI) in terms of 28-day mortality and intensive care unit (ICU) admission. This study was prospective and observational. All patients above the age of 65 who were admitted to the Sivas Republic University Medical Faculty Hospital from March 1 to April 30 in the year 2024 were included in the study. Patients' all-cause mortality values and ICU acceptance rates were evaluated for a 28-day period following their applications. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve stood for the 28-day mortality, while the values for PRISMA-7, ESI, and qSOFA were, respectively, 0.81 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.78-0.84), 0.78 (95% CI: 0.72-0.83), and 0.71 (95% CI: 0.65-0.77). Our findings have demonstrated PRISMA-7 to be more effective than ESI and qSOFA in terms of hospitalization predictions. However, while it was found to be more effective than qSOFA in mortality predictions, it was determined that, despite PRISMA-7 having a larger AUC than ESI, no meaningful difference existed between PRISMA-7 and ESI. In conclusion, PRISMA-7, which is thought of as a reliable and valid tool for the determination of frailty in emergency departments, has predictive value for individuals' 28-day mortality risk as well as for their acceptance to the ICU. Geriatr Gerontol Int ••; ••: ••-•• Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; ••: ••-••.

Utilizing Auricular Composite Grafts for Reconstruction of Nasal Ala Defects in Fitzpatrick Type III-V Indian Noses: Techniques and Outcomes.

Nasal ala defects present significant reconstructive challenges due to their complex anatomy and functional importance. Auricular composite grafts, incorporating both skin and cartilage, are particularly suited for this purpose because they can replace the multilayered structure of the nasal ala in a single surgical procedure, thereby restoring both form and function. Clinical outcomes of these grafts in the reconstruction of ala defects have been highly promising with studies indicating near complete survival rates. These findings underscore the efficacy of composite grafts in achieving successful results in these small but difficult defects to manage. The primary objective of this study is to assess the use of composite graft in Fitzpatrick type III-V Indian noses from survival and esthetic point of view. A retrospective review was conducted on eleven patients who underwent nasal ala reconstruction using auricular composite grafts between 2012 and 2022. Data collected included patient demographics, defect etiology and characteristics, surgical technique, postoperative outcomes and complications and follow-up duration. A total of eleven patients, age ranged from 17 to 68years, were included in the study. The majority of defects (seven) were acquired and resulted from trauma, ring avulsion and tumor excision and four were congenital clefts of ala. Graft survival rate was more than 90% with a follow-up period of 6months to 2years. Out of eleven grafts, one shrank approximately to half. No other complication was noted. Rest ten graft survived well with minimal shrinkage and produced esthetically pleasing and good functional outcome. Auricular composite grafts are a reliable and effective option for nasal ala reconstruction. The technique demonstrates a favorable balance between functional restoration and cosmetic appearance, with an acceptable complication rate. Careful selection of patients, suitable conditions and an additional vascular bed provided by turndown flap of lining allow a better survival of not only of standard size grafts but even slightly bigger grafts. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

The role of red rice in craft beer: A sensory and nutritional evaluation

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesRed rice is widely cultivated in the semi‐arid regions of Northeastern Brazil and is notable for its rich phenolic content and nutritional value. The use of red rice as a nonconventional adjunct in brewing can enhance the sensory and nutritional qualities of craft beers, offering a unique product profile that appeals to the growing demand for differentiated and artisanal beverages. This study aimed to evaluate the sensory and nutritional impact of incorporating red rice from two distinct regions, Bahia and Paraíba, into the brewing process.FindingsThe study analyzed the effects of red rice from Bahia and Paraíba on the antioxidant capacity, phenolic content, and volatile composition of the resulting beers. Beers produced with Paraíba red rice exhibited a higher phenolic content and antioxidant capacity, while the Bahia variety contributed to a more complex aromatic profile. Sensory evaluations showed that the Bahia rice beer received higher ratings for aroma and overall acceptance, whereas the Paraíba rice beer stood out in antioxidant properties.ConclusionsThe inclusion of red rice as a brewing adjunct in craft beer formulations enhances both antioxidant capacity and sensory complexity, contributing positively to consumer acceptance. Utilizing regionally sourced red rice varieties adds distinct sensory attributes to the beers, increasing their appeal within the specialty beverage market.Significance and NoveltyThis research demonstrates the potential of red rice as an innovative and sustainable adjunct for the craft beer industry, offering a nutritionally enriched and sensory‐diverse product. The findings underscore the value of integrating locally grown ingredients to create high‐quality, artisanal beverages that support regional agriculture and promote sensory diversity in the beverage industry.

An evaluation of the knowledge, attitudes and treatment approaches of general dental practitioners in Ireland in the management of traumatic dental injuries.

Traumatic Dental Injuries (TDIs) are a common oral health problem worldwide. Prompt and accurate diagnosis and treatment maximises the chances of favourable outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of Irish Dentists regarding the management of TDIs based on different trauma scenarios. Following ethical approval, a cross-sectional, 22-item self-administered questionnaire was distributed electronically to members of the Irish Dental Association between January and March 2024. A total of 245 complete responses were obtained, representing a 17% response rate. The results demonstrated a correlation between self-reported knowledge and number of correct answers. Overall 80% of respondents chose the correct storage medium for avulsed teeth. The majority of dentists aged > 46 years were unaware of the updated IADT guidelines. A large proportion of dentists showed inadequate knowledge with regard to the management of intruded permanent teeth (65%) and the endodontic management of an immature avulsed permanent tooth (50%). Management of intruded teeth and knowledge of root fractures was not as good as other injury types. The majority of respondents (85%) correctly answered that a tooth with negative sensibility tests following subluxation does not require endodontic treatment immediately. The survey had an acceptable response rate and demonstrated overall good knowledge in the management of TDIs. However, there was still confusion over management of certain scenarios which could have negative repercussions for patients entering an unnecessary restorative cycle. There is a need to improve practitioner confidence and experience in the management of certain TDIs and improve awareness of the IADT guideline as a resource, especially in dentists with more years of experience.

Acceptance and Completion Rates of 3-Month Isoniazid-Rifampicin (3HR) Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment (TPT) Among Contacts of Bacteriologically Confirmed TB Patients—Patients’ and Healthcare Workers’ Perspectives

Providing tuberculosis preventive treatment (TPT) to close contacts of persons with TB is a core strategy recommended by WHO for the prevention and control of TB. Nigeria rolled out the 3-month Isoniazid-Rifampicin (3HR) shorter regimen TPT as a pilot for use among eligible adult and child contacts. This study assesses acceptance and completion rates of 3HR TPT among contacts and determines the perspectives of healthcare workers (HCWs) and contacts on acceptance and completion of 3HR TPT in Nigeria. In this cross-sectional descriptive study using mixed methods, records of TPT-eligible clients were retrospectively reviewed, while 18 purposely selected HCWs and 18 contacts on 3HR were interviewed. Of the 30,012 eligible contacts, 12,040 (40.1%) were initiated on TPT. Among these, 8213 (68%) were enrolled on 3HR, and 6972 (84.7%) of them completed treatment. Perceived facilitators include belief in its effectiveness, training among HCWs, and a good understanding of TPT from HCW counseling sessions. Barriers reported were linked to stockouts, misconceptions about side effects, non-disclosures, and disincentive follow-up strategies. The acceptance and completion rate for 3HR TPT was good. Scaling up 3HR TPT will require redesigning policies towards addressing identified barriers and utilizing interventions linked to capabilities, opportunities, and motivations among contacts of TB patients and HCWs.

Injuries to the thoracic and lumbar spine in children under 16years of age-Reality of care in German-speaking countries: aregistry study

Spinal injuries in childhood are rare. There are few meaningful data for German-speaking countries. Evaluation of the registry data of the German Spine Society (DWG) with respect to the reality of care for thoracolumbar injuries in childhood. This retrospective study was initiated by the Spinal Trauma in Childhood Working Group of the Spine Section of the German Society for Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery (DGOU). All patients under the age of 16 years who underwent surgery between 1January 2017 and 31June 2023 were included. An anonymized evaluation of the demographic data was carried out with respect to age, gender, level of injury, neurological impairment, classification and treatment performed with intraoperative and postoperative complications. The specified documentation in the spine register served as the information basis. Regarding age classification 3groups were used: I: 0-6 years, II: 7-9 years, III: 10-16years. Data from 83children with 150 injuries in the thoracic and lumbar spine areas with amean age of 11.4 (± 3.45) years were analyzed. Atotal of 78 (52%) thoracic and 72 (48%) lumbar injuries were found. TypeA injuries were most common (n = 89; 59.2%). TypeB injuries were found in 32.2% (n = 48) and occurred mainly in groupIII. According to the AO neurological injury classification 18 (21%) patients had incomplete and 4 (4.8%) patients had complete paraplegia. Various methods were used for surgical treatment, the most common being dorsal stabilization (n = 73; 87.9%). The majority of operations were uncomplicated (n = 75; 90.4%). According to the registry data 83children were treated surgically with an acceptable complication rate. Older children and adolescents (groupIII) had asignificantly higher injury severity compared to younger children. As with most registry studies, only limited conclusions can be drawn about surgical strategies, indications and techniques.

Predictors of pouch failure and quality of life following ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for ulcerative colitis: a retrospective multicenter study.

This study aimed to investigate the causes of failure after the ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) procedure for ulcerative colitis (UC) and to determine the independent risk factors affecting their quality of life. This multi-center cohort study included all UC patients who underwent IPAA at nine referral centers in Türkiye from 2010 to 2018. Centers were categorized as high-volume (≥10 cases/year) or low-volume (<10 cases/year). Outcomes assessed included postoperative complications, pouch failure, and QoL using the Cleveland Global Quality of Life (CGQL) and modified Oresland Score. Logistic and linear regression analyses were used to identify risk factors for pouch failure and QoL determinants, respectively. Of 296 patients included, pouches were constructed in 172 (58.1%) as a two-staged and in the remaining patients as a three-staged procedure. The high-volume center had higher rates of biologic (45.1% versus 16%) and steroid use (63.9% versus 22.1%). The overall pouch failure rate was 4.7% at the end of follow-up of 66.1 months. Independent risk factors for pouch failure included pelvic sepsis (OR = 47.47, P = 0.002), biologic use (OR = 13.45, P = 0.033), chronic pouchitis (OR = 14.31, P = 0.013), postoperative blood transfusion (OR = 7.04, P = 0.048), and low annual case volume (OR = 30.86, P = 0.047). CGQL and Oresland scores averaged 0.77 ± 0.1 and 6.3 ± 1.1, respectively. Factors negatively impacting QoL included two-staged procedures, small bowel obstruction, venous thromboembolism, chronic pouchitis, increased frequency of bowel movements, and low annual case volume. IPAA surgery in UC patients in Türkiye demonstrates acceptable rates of complications and pouch failure, with high patient satisfaction in terms of QoL and functional outcomes. Optimizing long-term results requires enhanced surgical expertise and coordinated multidisciplinary management strategies.

Reddit for research recruitment? Social media as a novel clinical trial recruitment tool for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors.

Adolescent and young adult cancer survivors (AYAs) have been considered a hard-to-reach population with low enrollment rates in cancer clinical trials. Race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and inaccessibility have been identified as barriers impacting research participation. Social media has the potential to overcome these barriers and increase AYA enrollment. This secondary analysis of a randomized controlled behavioral trial aims to (1) examine differences in participant characteristics and engagement as stratified by recruitment method and (2) offer considerations for using social media to recruit AYAs. Social media and traditional recruitment methods were employed to recruit 72 post-treatment AYAs (ages 16-29) for a virtual synchronous group-based resiliency intervention (Bounce Back). Screening surveys assessed sociodemographic, medical, and psychosocial characteristics. Feasibility was assessed via attendance and follow-up survey completion. Post-intervention program acceptability and treatment satisfaction ratings were collected. A total of 61% of AYAs were recruited via social media; with 40% from Reddit, 18% from Facebook, and 3% from Twitter. Participants recruited via social media had greater sociodemographic and geographic diversity, completed cancer treatment more recently, and reported increased anxiety and prospective worry compared to participants recruited via traditional channels. No significant between-group differences in retention, engagement, acceptability, or treatment satisfaction ratings were detected. Challenges encountered included bots, malingerers, and scheduling considerations. Recruiting via social media platforms, especially Reddit, enhanced participant diversity and intervention accessibility. Researchers should identify recruitment methods that promote inclusivity while preserving safety and research integrity. Social media recruitment was a successful and comparable recruitment strategy for engaging early post-treatment AYAs in a behavioral intervention trial.

Constructing Highly Porous Low Iridium Anode Catalysts Via Dealloying for Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzers.

Iridium (Ir) is the most active and durable anode catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) for proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers (PEMWEs). However, their large-scale applications are hindered by high costs and scarcity of Ir. Lowering Ir loadings below 1.0 mgcm-2 causes significantly reduced PEMWE performance and durability. Therefore, developing efficient low Ir-based catalysts is critical to widely commercializing PEMWEs. Herein, an approach is presented for designing porous Ir metal aerogel (MA) catalysts via chemically dealloying IrCu alloys. The unique hierarchical pore structures and multiple channels of the Ir MA catalyst significantly increase electrochemical surface area (ECSA) and enhance OER activity compared to conventional Ir black catalysts, providing an effective solution to design low-Ir catalysts with improved Ir utilization and enhanced stability. An optimized membrane electrode assembly (MEA) with an Ir loading of 0.5 mgIr cm-2 generated 2.0 A cm-2 at 1.79V, higher than the Ir black at a loading of 2.0 mgIr cm-2 (1.63 A cm-2). The low-Ir MEA demonstrated an acceptable decay rate of ≈40 µV h-1 during durability tests at 0.5 (>1200 h) and 2.0 A cm-2 (400 h), outperforming the commercial Ir-based MEA (175 µV h-1 at 2.0 mgIr cm-2).

A Cross-sectional Study of COVID-19 Vaccination and Public Perception in Selected Rural Community

The COVID-19 vaccination program in India demonstrated rapid deployment, yet rural populations exhibited lower vaccination rates compared to urban centers. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in rural areas of Surampalem of Andhra Pradesh state in India to evaluate vaccination status, assess public perception, and identify barriers to vaccine uptake. The study included 312 participants (151 males, 161 females) through a door-to-door survey using a structured questionnaire. Results indicated that Covaxin was administered to 168 participants while 144 received Covishield. It is found that 67% of the surveyed population required their second dose, indicating a substantial gap in complete vaccination coverage. Common misconceptions identified among participants included concerns about adverse effects, doubts regarding vaccine efficacy, belief in natural immunity superiority, and fears about vaccine interactions with comorbidities. Statistical analyses using one-way ANOVA and Student's t-tests showed no significant differences between groups regarding vaccine doses, age versus gender, and age versus vaccine type (p &gt; 0.005). Educational interventions were implemented through awareness camps and distribution of informational brochures to address identified misconceptions. Data was shared with local health authorities to facilitate targeted vaccination drives. The study results show the need for continued education and awareness programs in rural communities to improve COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and completion rates.

Intelligent Fingerprint Recognition System Using Machine Learning

Secure authentication relies heavily on fingerprint recognition systems; however, conventional techniques are hindered by differences in image quality and possible security breaches. This study suggests a novel method for improving fingerprint recognition accuracy and robustness that makes use of machine learning techniques. By utilizing convolutional neural networks' (CNNs') capacity to deduce intricate patterns and representations from fingerprint photos, we investigate the use of CNNs for feature extraction and matching. Comparing our experimental results against conventional approaches, we find considerable improvements in accuracy and false acceptance rates on benchmark datasets. By advancing biometric authentication technologies, this research helps to improve security and dependability for a range of applications in law enforcement, access control, and personal identification.

Accelerating virtual patient generation with a Bayesian optimization and machine learning surrogate model.

The pharmaceutical industry has increasingly adopted model-informed drug discovery and development (MID3) to enhance productivity in drug discovery and development. Quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP), which integrates drug action mechanisms and disease complexities to predict clinical endpoints and biomarkers is central to MID3. QSP modeling has proven successful in metabolic and cardiovascular diseases and has expanded into oncology, immunotherapy, and infectious diseases. Despite its benefits, QSP model validation through clinical trial simulations using virtual patients (VPs) is challenging because of parameter variability and high computational costs. To address these challenges, this study proposes a hybrid method that combines Bayesian optimization with machine learning for efficient parameter screening. Our approach achieved an acceptance rate of 27.5% in QSP simulations, which is in sharp contrast with the 2.5% rate of conventional random search methods, indicating more than 10-fold improvement in efficiency. By facilitating faster and more diverse VPs generation, this method promises to advance clinical trial simulations and accelerate drug development in pharmaceutical research.

Bayesian updating using accelerated Hamiltonian Monte Carlo with gradient-enhanced Kriging model

Bayesian methods have been widely used to improve the accuracy of finite element model in civil engineering. However, Bayesian methods generally suffer from the computational complexity involved in accurately identifying the posterior distribution. To address this issue, this paper proposes a novel method by combining the Hamiltonian Monte Carlo (HMC) algorithm with the gradient-enhanced Kriging (GEK) model, termed HMC-GEK, for more efficient model updating. The proposed method uses the potential function and gradient information generated during the burn-in phase of the HMC to train the GEK model. By replacing high-cost potential function with the GEK model, the original HMC sampling process is accelerated. An eight-story frame structure and a Y-shaped arch bridge are used to validate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method. Furthermore, the HMC-GEK method has been employed to identify damage of a real eight-story steel frame structure. Compared with the HMC method with the traditional Kriging model, HMC-GEK makes more full use of the gradient information of the potential function and significantly improves the sample acceptance rate and computational efficiency. In addition, the successful application of the method in damage identification of the real structure demonstrates its value for engineering applications.