Significant Predictors Of Success Research Articles

An NCLEX-RN Improvement Project: A Study of Student Attributes Associated With Test Success.

A school of nursing developed a process to improve graduates' NCLEX-RN scores through a committee tasked with identifying approaches to assist students in passing the NCLEX-RN on the first attempt. The process involved: (1) engaging the faculty to use current published evidence; and (2) conducting an anonymous survey of previous graduates to identify the factors associated with NCLEX-RN success in the school's student population. Logistic regression analysis was conducted on a sample of 165 graduates of the program. The analysis of the graduates' psychosocial, academic, and NCLEX-RN preparation attributes compared with NCLEX-RN outcome revealed grade point average was the strongest significant predictor of success. The NCLEX-RN success program served to engage the school of nursing faculty. In addition, a study of the program's graduates revealed a predictor of potential student success that can identify students who may need additional support early in the program. [J Nurs Educ. 2024;63(2):102-107.].

Favorable Outcome Perception in Facial Selective Neurectomy.

Facial selective neurectomy (SN) improves facial function by denervation of muscles antagonistic to the smile in nonflaccid facial paralysis (NFFP) patients. This study aims to assess whether and which objective facial function metrics affect favorable SN outcome in NFFP patients, as perceived by facial nerve (FN) practitioners. Retrospective cohort study. NFFP patients who underwent SN at the facial nerve center. Standardized preoperative and postoperative facial photographs of patients undergoing SN were analyzed using clinician-graded measures (eFACE) and automated facial measurement (Emotrics). Favorable outcome was ranked subjectively by 3 independent FN practitioners. Correlations between objective metrics and favorable subjective outcome were examined. Fifty-eight SN cases were included. Oral commissure excursion with smile, interlabial distance, and lower lip movement were all considered statistically significantly important for favorable outcome perception. Each +1 mm of smile excursion increases the odds of a favorable outcome by 75.4% (odds ratio [OR]: 1.754). Each +1 mm of interlabial distance asymmetry decreases the odds of a favorable outcome by 24.7% (OR: 0.753). Each +1-point change in lower lip movement eFACE score increases the odds of a favorable outcome by 2.7% (OR: 1.027). Several smile metrics contribute to favorable SN outcome perception among FN practitioners. Smile excursion, interlabial distance, and lower lip movement were significant predictors of success. These observations may be extrapolated to other facial reanimation interventions and serve surgeons and patients during counseling and expectation management, and during surgery.

Weight reduction after bariatric surgery - Do results correlate with postoperative visit frequency?

BackgroundConsistent follow up after a bariatric surgery is considered vital to adequate and sustained weight reduction. This study examined the strength to which compliance with postsurgical appointments predicted an increase in total body weight loss percent (TBWL%) and change in body mass index (BMI) in a cohort of Illinois based surgical center patients. MethodsParticipants (n = 78) were patients with obesity who underwent bariatric surgery between 2019 and 2021. Patient preoperative weight and BMI, and postoperative weight and BMI at 3-month intervals for one year, and the number of visits were collected from chart review to calculate TBWL%, and change in BMI. Relationship between these factors and postoperative visit compliance were evaluated using linear regression to assess if it was a significant predictor of success. ResultsFollow up visit compliance had a weak positive association with increased TBWL% (Model R2 = 0.134, B = 0.011, p = 0.004) and a minimally stronger association with increased change in BMI (Model R2 = 0.229, B = 0.015, p = 0.0001). ConclusionsAdherence with follow up visits was weakly related to improved weight reduction outcomes after bariatric surgery. Future investigations should consider how follow up visits can better influence a patient's success in sustaining achieved weight reduction.

Characterization of Regional Morphological Changes in Metopic Craniosynostosis Following Endoscopic Strip Craniectomy With Postoperative Helmeting: Predictors for Success

Background: Metopic craniosynostosis (MC) represents 10% to 25% of craniosynostosis cases. Endoscopic-assisted strip craniectomy (ESC) with orthotic molding therapy provides a minimally invasive alternative to open fronto-orbital advancement. Herein, we describe a 3D photogrammetry methodology for measurement of regional cranial growth and inter-frontal angle (IFA) as well as examine factors that may contribute to successful outcomes after ESC. Methods: A retrospective review was performed on patients with MC treated with ESC and band therapy from 2015 to 2019. Patients obtained 3D photogrammetry preoperatively, postoperatively, and post-helmet therapy. A survey was administered to 14 independent raters, who were asked to determine treatment success based on subjective visual assessment of preoperative and post-banding images. Patients were considered to have successful therapy when ≥75% of raters were in agreeance. Results: Thirteen patients met inclusion criteria. Average age at surgery was 3.5 months, with 53.9% of these patients deemed as a successful outcome on aggregate reviewer scores. For patients with successful treatment, there was a trend toward younger at surgery (2.9 months vs 4.2 months, P = .09) and at initiation of helmeting (3.3 months vs 4.8 months, P = .07). Regional root mean square identified significant differences between frontal and temporal (14.04 mm vs 7.39 mm, P = .02) and temporal and parietal (7.39 mm vs 15.37 mm, P = .002) regions. Average postoperative IFA was significantly improved compared to preoperative values (128.19° vs 117.9°, P = .02). Logistic regression modeling found no significant predictors of success. Discussion: Though not statistically significant, patients with MC with successful outcomes following ESC and banding were younger at surgery and time of helmeting. Our analysis of regional cranial growth and IFA demonstrated significant differences, which coincide with expected morphologic changes in this patient population. Our results demonstrate the potential for this technology in surgical evaluation and support the importance of early diagnosis and treatment by craniofacial surgeons.

The power of the written word: Comparing word meaning inferencing from auditory and written modalities throughout grade school

Previous research indicates that word learning from auditory contexts may be more effective than written context at least through fourth grade. However, no study has examined contextual differences in word learning in older school-aged children when reading abilities are more developed. Here we examined developmental differences in children’s ability to deduce the meanings of unknown words from the surrounding linguistic context in the auditory and written modalities and sought to identify the most important predictors of success in each modality. A total of 89 children aged 8–15 years were randomly assigned to either read or listen to a narrative that included eight novel words, with five exposures to each novel word. They then completed three posttests to assess word meaning inferencing. Children across all ages performed better in the written modality. Vocabulary was the only significant predictor of success on the word inferencing task. Results indicate support for written stimuli as the most effective modality for novel word meaning deduction. Our findings suggest that the presence of orthographic information facilitates novel word learning even for early, less proficient readers.

National integration of mental health screening and treatment into specialized care for cystic fibrosis: What predicts success?

The CF Foundation sponsored competitive awards for Mental Health Coordinators (MHCs) from 2016 to 2018 to implement the international guidelines for mental health screening and treatment in US CF centers. Longitudinal surveys evaluated success in implementing these guidelines using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). MHCs completed annual surveys assessing implementation from preparation/basic implementation (e.g., using recommended screeners) to full implementation/sustainability (e.g., providing evidence-based treatments). Points were assigned to questions through consensus, with higher scores assigned to more complex tasks. Linear regression and mixed effects models were used to: (1) examine differences in centers and MHC characteristics, (2) identify predictors of success, (3) model the longitudinal trajectory of implementation scores. A total of 122 MHCs (88.4% responded): Cohort 1, N = 80; Cohort 2, N = 30; and Cohort 3, N = 12. No differences in center characteristics were found. Significant improvements in implementation were observed across centers over time. Years of experience on a CF team was the only significant predictor of success; those with 1-5 years or longer reported the highest implementation scores. Change over time was predicted by >5 years of experience. Implementation of the mental health guidelines was highly successful over time. Funding for MHCs with dedicated time was critical. Longitudinal modeling indicated that CF centers with diverse characteristics could implement them, supported by evidence from the CF Patient Registry showing nearly universal uptake of mental health screening in the United States. Years of experience predicted better implementation, suggesting that education and training of MHCs and retention of experienced providers are critical to success.

Enhancing professional success: Chinese EFL teachers’ workplace buoyancy and cognitive flexibility

As integral to the EFL learners' achievement and intellectual development, good language teachers need to be familiar with the influential factors hindering or promoting their success. Positive psychology paying attention to positive traits highlights the factors that boost performance. In this line, by taking boosters of being a successful teacher, the aim of the current study is to consider the interplay between Chinese EFL instructors' professional success, workplace buoyancy, and cognitive flexibility. Then, it is considered whether EFL teachers' buoyancy and cognitive flexibility can predict success. Accordingly, 328 Chinese EFL teachers were conveniently selected to participate in this study. To analyze the collected data, multiple regression analysis and Spearman Rho correlation index as well as ANOVA were employed. The findings are an indication of a direct and significant correlation and coaction among EFL teachers’ cognitive flexibility, workplace buoyancy, and professional success. Additionally, the results indicate that the cognitive flexibility of EFL teachers can be one of the significant predictors of success in their profession. Our findings imply that teachers need to enhance their positive personality traits such as cognitive flexibility and buoyancy to be successful in their profession.

Varicocelectomy for scrotal pain: Is it effective?

Varicocelectomy is the prevailing management of scrotal pain secondary to varicocele. However, the literature is controversial on this topic. Some data showed that pain may persist after the surgery even if the varicocele is not detected postoperatively. The objectives of the study were to identify the effect of varicocelectomy in patients with chronic scrotal pain, to report the association between the clinical grade and postoperative pain resolution, and to identify the need for a secondary procedure after varicocelectomy to control the pain. This was a retrospective study of 47 patients who underwent varicocelectomy between March 2016 and December 2018. Postoperatively, the pain totally resolved after surgery in 64.3% of patients with scrotal pain; it improved in 21.4%, 11.9% have persistent pain, and the pain got worse in only 2.4%. Our study showed 100% complete resolution or improvement with Grade I, 85.7% in Grade II, and 81.3% in Grade III. In addition, all patients who underwent bilateral varicocelectomy had pain that either completely resolved or improved postoperatively. On the other hand, all patients who had persistent pain or pain worsening postoperatively had unilateral varicocelectomy. An additional intervention for postoperative pain control was needed in only 14% of patients, 7% of them underwent embolization, 4.7% had a cord block, and 2.3% were sent to a pain clinic. Varicocelectomy offers good outcomes in most patients with varicocele-related scrotal pain. The most significant predictor for success was low grade and bilaterality. However, there is a subset of patients whose symptoms will not improve postoperatively. Careful preoperative counseling and expectation management are crucial when discussing surgical options for those patients.

Prospective study of beginner running groups: psychological predictors and outcomes of participation

Running is an example of vigorous activity that leads to important health benefits if maintained. Beginner running groups provide supportive training programs to help people progress from walking to sustained running. This study explored the characteristics of individuals joining beginner running groups and the outcomes they achieve. New members of beginner running groups (n = 141; mean age 43 years, 122 female) completed online assessments at the start of their group program with 63 participants (45%) also completing a follow-up assessment at the end of the program. Validated scales were used to assess exercise behavior, mental wellbeing, self-efficacy, running identity and social physique anxiety. The majority of participants had low exercise levels at the start of the program (63%, n = 89). By the program end, 47 participants (75% of those completing the follow-up assessment) reported meeting the training goal (running for 30 minutes continuously) with self-efficacy, program adherence and younger age representing significant predictors of success. Significant improvements in exercise levels, mental wellbeing, self-efficacy, running identity and social physique anxiety were observed by the end of the program. In conclusion, beginner running programs attract low active individuals and may lead to improved levels of exercise and psychological outcomes. Additional research is needed to examine the extent to which improvements are sustained longer term.

Riverine Barriers as Obstacles to Dispersal in Amazonian Birds

Amazonian rivers represent known barriers for avian dispersal, reducing gene flow and enhancing differentiation. Despite the importance of rivers in the avian evolutionary process, we have made only minor advances in understanding the limitations imposed by rivers on flying birds. To fill that gap, we conducted dispersal-challenge experiments over water, assessing the flying capabilities of 84 tropical bird species of 22 different avian families. We mist-netted and released 484 birds from a stationary boat on the Rio Branco, northern Amazonia, at increasing distances from the shore, including 249 individuals at 100; 219 at 200; 8 at 300; and 5 at 400 m. A successful trial was represented by a bird reaching the riverbank, whereas a failure would refer to birds not reaching the shore and landing on the water, when they were rescued by our team. Our main goal was to understand if the outcome in the experiments could be predicted by (i) phylogenetic constraints, (ii) morphology (body mass and wing shape), (iii) flight speed, (iv) ecological preferences (stratum, habitat, and river-island specialization), and (v) psychological reluctance to fly. Nearly two thirds of the individuals (332) were successful in reaching the riverbank, whereas 152 failed. We found significant differences among lineages. Whereas seven avian families succeeded in all of the trials, two families (antbirds and wrens) were particularly bad dispersers (<40% success). The hand-wing index (HWI) was the single most powerful predictor of trial success. Flying speed was also a significant predictor of success. Overall, ecological attributes had a low explanatory power. Only forest stratum preference had a significant, although weak, effect on dispersal ability: canopy- and ground-dwellers performed better than understory birds. However, we found no effect of habitat preference or river-island specialization on dispersal ability. Our speed estimates for 64 bird species are among the first produced for the tropics and suggest slower flying speeds than those reported from temperate migratory birds. Although birds showed behavioral differences when presented with the opportunity to fly away from the boat, we found no evidence that their reluctance to fly could predict the outcome in the experiments. This represents the first experimental study evaluating the riverine effect through dispersal ability of Amazonian birds, providing important insights to better understand dispersal limitations provided by riverine barriers.

Two-Staged Sacral Neuromodulation for the Treatment of Nonobstructive Urinary Retention: A Multicenter Study Assessing Predictors of Success

ObjectivesThe aims of this study were to 1) determine the success rate of the tined lead test phase in patients with nonobstructive urinary retention (NOUR), 2) determine predictive factors of a successful test phase in patients with NOUR, and 3) determine long-term treatment efficacy and satisfaction in patients with NOUR. Materials and MethodsThe first part was a multicenter retrospective study at two centers in The Netherlands. Patients with NOUR received a four-week tined lead test phase. Success was defined as a ≥50% reduction of clean intermittent catheterization frequency or postvoid residual. We analyzed possible predictors of success with multivariable logistic regression. Second, all patients received a questionnaire to assess efficacy, perceived health (Patient Global Impression of Improvement), and treatment satisfaction. ResultsThis study included 215 consecutive patients (82 men and 133 women) who underwent a tined lead test phase for the treatment of NOUR. The success rate in women was significantly higher than in men, respectively 62% (83/133) and 22% (18/82, p < 0.001). In women, age per ten years (odds ratio [OR] 0.74, 95% CI: 0.59–0.93) and a history of psychiatric illness (OR 3.92, 95% CI: 1.51–10.2), including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), significantly predicted first stage sacral neuromodulation (SNM) success. In men, age per ten years (OR 0.43, 95% CI: 0.25–0.72) and previous transurethral resection of the prostate and/or bladder neck incision (OR 7.71, 95% CI: 1.43–41.5) were significant predictors of success. Conversely, inability to void during a urodynamic study (for women, OR 0.79, 95% CI: 0.35–1.78; for men, OR 3.06, 95% CI: 0.83–11.3) was not predictive of success. Of the patients with a successful first stage, 75% (76/101) responded to the questionnaire at a median follow-up of three years. Of these patients, 87% (66/76) continued to use their SNM system, and 92% (70/76) would recommend SNM to other patients. ConclusionsA history of psychiatric illness, including PTSD, in women with NOUR increased the odds of first stage SNM success 3.92 times. A previous transurethral resection of the prostate and/or bladder neck incision in men increased the odds of success 7.71 times. In addition, a ten-year age increase was associated with an OR of 0.43 in men and 0.74 in women, indicating a 2.3- and 1.3-times decreased odds of success, respectively.

Exploring innovative problem-solving in African lions (Panthera leo) and snow leopards (Panthera uncia)

Cognitive ability is likely linked to adaptive ability; animals use cognition to innovate and problem-solve in their physical and social environments. We investigated innovative problem-solving in two species of high conservation importance: African lions (Panthera leo; n = 6) and snow leopards (Panthera uncia; n = 9). We designed a custom multi-access puzzle box (MAB) to present a simple and effective behavioral test for the cats to explore. We measured Repeated Innovation, Persistence, Success, Contact Latency, and the Exploration Diversity of individuals interacting with the MAB. Of the six African lions, three (50%) solved one door to the box, one solved two doors (16.67%), and one solved three doors (16.67%). Of the nine snow leopards, one solved one door (11.11%), three solved two doors (33.33%), and none solved all three doors (0%). Persistence was a significant predictor of Success in African lions and snow leopards; more Persistent individuals were more likely to open a door. We also observed significant individual variation in Persistence for both species, but only snow leopards also exhibited differences in Contact Latency and Exploration Diversity. These results suggest individuals vary in their problem-solving approaches. Our findings support both species as successful, repeated innovators. Carnivores face ecological and social challenges and, presumably, benefit from cognitive abilities facilitating the successful navigation of these challenges in captivity and the wild.

Treatment Outcomes of Regenerative Endodontic Procedures in Traumatized Immature Permanent Necrotic Teeth: A Retrospective Study

IntroductionThis retrospective study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) for traumatic immature permanent teeth. Meanwhile, predictors influencing treatment outcomes were also analyzed to provide evidence for the management of immature teeth after different traumatic scenarios. MethodsTraumatized immature permanent teeth diagnosed with pulp necrosis treated by REPs using blood clot or concentrated growth factor scaffolds with at least 6 months of follow-up were included from 2012 to 2021. Treatment outcomes were categorized as a success or failure and survival. Further root development was assessed in terms of the percentage changes in the apical diameter, root length, and radiographic root area. Among different injury types, the clinical and radiographic outcomes of REPs were evaluated by the Fisher exact test and the Kruskal-Wallis test, respectively. Survival analysis and Cox regression analysis were performed to identify significant predictors affecting outcomes. ResultsSixty-two teeth with a mean of 22.3 months of follow-up satisfied the criteria, and 80.6% of the teeth had a successful outcome. A significant change was observed in a decrease of the apical diameter (69.3%) and an increase of the radiographic root area (22.6%) after REPs. Among different injury types, the success rates of REPs were as follows: fracture, 84.6%; luxation, 83.3%; combined injuries, 78.6%; and avulsion, 33.3% (P > .05). Fractured teeth had a significantly greater decrease of the apical diameter than combined injuries (P < .05). Avulsion was more prone to developing root resorption than fracture (P < .05). Scaffold was a significant predictor for success; a blood clot had a significantly reduced risk for failure than concentrated growth factor (hazard ratio = 16; 95% confidence interval, 2.1–125.2; P < .001). ConclusionsREPs provided satisfactory outcomes in traumatized immature permanent necrotic teeth. However, severe injuries, especially avulsion, should be determined carefully to perform REPs when resorption is expected. Scaffold selection may be an important consideration.

Validity of the Swimming Capacities and Anthropometric Indices in Predicting the Long-Term Success of Male Water Polo Players: A Position-Specific Prospective Analysis over a Ten-Year Period.

Long-term predictors of success in water polo are rarely reported. This study aimed to evaluate the position-specific validity of the swimming and anthropometric/body build tests on the prediction of the long-term success of male water polo players. The participants were 85 top-level players observed at baseline (junior level, when they were 17–18 years of age; 35 centers and 50 perimeter players) in tests of swimming capacities (15 m water polo sprint, 25 m sprint, and 100 and 400 m freestyle swimming) and anthropometric/body build indices (body mass, body height, arm span, body mass index, and body fat percentage). Over a period of 10 years, participants’ senior-level success was prospectively observed. Multinomial logistic regression with three levels of criteria (high achievement, medium achievement, and low achievement at the senior level) was applied to identify the predictive validity of the swimming and anthropometric/body build indices. For the total sample (not dividing perimeter from center players), all observed swimming capacities, body height, and arm span were significantly associated with success, with more successful players being taller, with a longer arm span, and superior swimming capacities. Body height and 100 m freestyle swimming were significant predictors of success among centers. Achievement in 100 and 400 m freestyle swimming, body height, and a lower percentage of body fat were correlated with higher senior-level performance in perimeter players. The results showed better validity of the anaerobic-lactate and aerobic swimming tests than sprint swimming in predicting the long-term achievement of male water polo players. Differences in the influence of swimming capacities and body-build indices on senior-level success between observed playing positions are related to differences in game duties, playing time, and consequent metabolic demands.

Linking Testing Activities with Success in Agile Development of Physical Products

Agile development methods are becoming increasingly important for mechanical engineering and the development of physical products. A key element of agile development and an integral part of the product development process is testing. This paper investigates the link between testing activities and success in agile product development. An observational study was conducted with 355 students grouped into 72 teams. Each team developed a physical product in a 12-week project. The project structure incorporated several aspects of the agile method Scrum. At the end of the project, the performance of each team’s product was evaluated with a performance score. During the project, the participants documented their invested time in development activities. To validate the result of the self-assessment, the usage of the mechatronic equipment of the individual teams was logged electronically for methodological triangulation. Statistical analysis was carried out using multiple regression models. The results show that time invested early in the project and testing activities throughout the project were statistically significant predictors of success. Furthermore, the results highlight the variety of performed testing activities and show that testing beyond the activities within Verification and Validation were performed until the very end of the project. The study results underline the importance of testing and support essential concepts discussed in the literature with quantitative empirical evidence.

Predictors of response to sleep apnea surgery addressing the lateral pharyngeal wall collapse

PurposeTo evaluate the predictive factors for surgical success in sleep apnea surgical techniques addressing the lateral pharyngeal wall. Materials and methodsThis is a retrospective review of consecutive cases treated by functional expansion pharyngoplasty for OSA. Collected data included patients demographics, ENT physical examination and somnographic data. Furthermore inter pterygoid distance was assessed by CT scans. To determine predictors of surgical success, physical examination, CT findings, polysomnographic and demographic data were compared between the success and failure group. ResultsFifty two patients were enrolled. The mean AHI decreased significantly from 44.3 to 17 (p = 0.001). A total of 33 patients (63.5%) met the surgical success criteria. An inter pterygoid distance longer than 34 mm was the only significant predictor of success. ConclusionsInter pterygoid distance seems to be a promising parameter associated with the surgical outcomes that should be further studied to be validated as predictor of success.

Predictors and Outcomes of Fully Covered Stent Treatment for Anastomotic Esophageal Strictures in Esophageal Atresia.

Anastomotic strictures following surgical repair is one of the most common complications in esophageal atresia (EA). The utility of esophageal stenting to treat anastomotic esophageal strictures in pediatrics is unclear. Our primary aim was to evaluate whether esophageal stenting, in conjunction with dilation and other endoscopic therapies, prevented surgical stricture resection (SR). Our secondary aims were to evaluate predictors of successful esophageal stenting and evaluate adverse events from stent placement. A retrospective review of pediatric patients with EA complicated by esophageal strictures was performed. The change in stricture diameter in millimeters from the time of stent removal to subsequent endoscopy was defined as delta diameter (ΔD). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the discriminatory ability of ΔD. Youden J index was used to identify optimal cutoff-point in predicting stent success. A univariate and multivariate analysis were done to assess predictors of success. Forty-nine esophageal anastomoses were stented to treat esophageal strictures. Stents prevented SR in 41% of patients. ROC curve analysis utilizing Youden J index identified ΔD of ≤4 mm (area under the curve = 0.790; 95% confidence interval: 0.655-0.924; P < 0.001) as the optimal cutoff point in differentiating stent success. The most common adverse events were erosions/ulcerations, granulation tissue formation, and vomiting/retching. Stent therapy in preventing SR at the site of EA repair was successful in 41% in our population with good long term follow-up. The most significant predictor of success in this study was the change in luminal diameter (≤4 mm) at initial poststent follow-up.

Determining the Prognostic Validity of the Unilateral Horizontal Cyclic Jumps Test in Sprint Performance

In sports practice, motor tests are commonly used to predict success in specific segments of sprint running, as well as post-injury tests in rehabilitation. The purpose of this analytical cross-sectional study was to determine the prognostic validity of the unilateral horizontal cyclic jumps for a 20 m (UHCJ20m) test on sprint running success. A sample of 118 kinesiology students aged 20.5 ± 1.2 years with an average height of 179.7 ± 6.4 cm and a body mass of 75.6 ± 7.3 kg was used to determine the correlation between the results of the UHCJ20m test and the results of the 20 m sprint start run (MRLS20m), the 20 m sprint flying start run (MRFS20m), and the 100 m run (M100m). The results showed a moderate correlation in all tests (MRLS20m (R = 0.49), MRFS20m (R = 0.53), and M100m (R = 0.38)) with UHCJ20m. In addition to the final result, the multiple regression analysis showed a significant moderate correlation between the kinematic parameters of the UHCJ20m test and the results in the MRLS20m (R = 0.38), MRFS20m (R = 0.49), and M100m (R = 0.37) tests. The stride length (SL) and the contact time (CT) of the UHCJ20m test were statistically significant predictors for the 100 m sprint, the number of steps for MRLS20m, and the SL and the CT for MRFS20m sprint success. Unilateral horizontal cyclic jumps are a significant predictor of success in sprint running, especially for the maximal speed running segment.

Comparison of Feeding-Artery-Only versus Nidus-Plus-Feeding-Artery Embolization of Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformations

PurposeTo compare coil embolotherapy outcomes of feeding-artery-only versus nidus-plus-feeding-artery technique for treating pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs). Materials and MethodsA total of 219 treatment-naïve PAVMs embolized in 90 patients at a single center from 2008 to 2018 met inclusion criteria for retrospective evaluation. Of the patients, 87% had a diagnosis of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). Feeding artery (FA) diameters ≥2 mm were treated. Coil embolization techniques were classified on the basis of embolic deployment zone: (i) distal feeding artery (DFA) technique (coil-to-nidus distance ≤ 1 cm) or (ii) nidus plus feeding artery (NiFA) technique. Successful embolization predictors were assessed using a multivariate linear regression model with input from patient- and PAVM-specific variables. ResultsTreatment success was achieved in 192 of 219 PAVMs (87.7%) over a mean follow-up period of 19 months. Statistically significant predictors of success in the linear regression model included simple angioarchitecture, NiFA embolization technique, and shorter follow-up duration. Stratified by technique, success rates were 99 of 105 (94.3%) and 93 of 114 (81.6%) PAVMs for NiFA and DFA, respectively (P = .007). On average, NiFA-embolized PAVMs had a larger FA diameter (3.6 mm vs 2.7 mm, P < .001) and comprised more complex PAVMs (48% vs 22%, P < .001) than DFA. Treatment success was not significantly associated with sac size or FA diameter. ConclusionsCoil embolization of both the nidus and FA was associated with a higher persistent occlusion rate than FA embolization alone.

Exploring the Level of Computer Literacy for Candidates in Higher Education: ICDL Programme at Bahrain Polytechnic

Bahrain Polytechnic is a Higher Education technical institution established in 2008 (by Royal Decree No. 65 for the year 2008). Its main mission is to supply the Bahraini economy with a skilled Bahraini labour force aiming to contribute to economic growth and diversification. The Polytechnic ensures that its values of excellence, learning and innovation are achieved by designing curricula that meet international standards as well as national and individual needs through continuous consultations with the industries and international education institutions. The development of computer and technological literacy is a significant predictor for success in the workplace and is also one of the key skills that the polytechnic provides through its programmes to students and faculty. This paper explores how computer literacy and skills are acquired by educators and students through International Computer Driving License (ICDL) tools employed at Bahrain Polytechnic. The study also considers the challenges that hinder learners from completing the requirements of ICDL. If adequate numbers of faculty and students have already learned basic computer skills, then the question facing the polytechnic is if computer literacy should continue to be taught at all levels. To answer this question, ICDL tests were administered to ascertain the computer literacy level of existing faculty and students. The results of the tests will determine which ICDL tests students and faculty should be placed on in order to address their computer literacy needs.