Time Of Collection Research Articles

TetraDENSITY 2.0—A Database of Population Density Estimates in Tetrapods

ABSTRACTMotivationPopulation density is a fundamental parameter in ecology and conservation, and taxonomic and geographic patterns of population density have been an important focus of macroecological research. However, population density data are time‐consuming and costly to collect, so their availability is limited. Leveraging decades of research, TetraDENSITY 1.0 was developed as a global repository containing over 18,000 population density estimates for > 2100 terrestrial vertebrate species, aiding researchers in investigating patterns of population density, its intrinsic and extrinsic drivers, and for developing predictive models. Here we present a substantially expanded version of the database, which now includes marine tetrapods and encompasses over 54,300 estimates for 3717 species associated with error estimates and geographical coordinates when available, hence enabling meta‐analytical approaches and better spatial matching of estimates with environmental conditions.Main Types of Variables ContainedPopulation density estimates and associated errors, time and location of data collection, taxonomic information, estimation method.Spatial LocationGlobal.Time Period and Grain1925–2024.Major Taxa and Level of MeasurementAmphibia, Reptilia, Aves and Mammalia. Estimates reported at the population level.Software Format.csv.

A self-organizing map clustering adaptive artificial neural network model for analysis critical success factors in different phases of MTO projects case study: electrical equipment manufacturer and supplier in Iran

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the benefit of critical success factors (CSFs) clustering in different phases of make-to-order (MTO) projects and develop standards for management.Design/methodology/approachThis study is based on a questionnaire survey. First of all, collecting data by structured interviews, relying on a questionnaire and second from leader contractors who are active in the engineering and steel industry (in Iran). So, the requirements and objective of the research are presented to the top management of MTO projects to gain their support in data collection. Then 20 CSFs were identified by the literature review so a questionnaire survey was prepared for the CSFs assessment and interview with the experts. Finally analyzing the importance and performance of CSFs in project phases and cluster them in different project phases with self-organizing map as one of the artificial neural network (ANN) approaches due to high predictive accuracy. Review the research result with the top management of MTO project and examine the results obtained from neural networks and validation indices.FindingsCluster analysis shows that the implementation phase is the most important stage in MTO organizations and the other phases like feasibility and start-up, design and planning, delivery and end-phase should be also considered as effective phases in determining the level of organization performance. Different industries with additional data at different periodic times will verify the result. Furthermore, testing the other ANN model will improve risk analysis and could shift this classification approach to a regression type.Research limitations/implicationsThe main limitation of the research is related to the sample. Research findings are limited to the time of data collection so validity is limited to the mentioned time. Different industries with additional data will verify the result. Furthermore, testing different ANN models such as K-MEANS, non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) analyses will improve risk analysis and could meet different classification results to find gaps.Practical implicationsIn this paper, CSF and project phase dimensions are viewed together which is necessary to meet better results for simplifying social and economic benefits. Merge the new findings and latest technologies could prepare the best results and enable managers to create a better framework or implement key factors for minimizing waste.Originality/valueThis paper moves the definition of MTO organizations beyond measuring cost, complexity and financial variables by clustering CSFs in different phases of projects. So, the results enable managers to use this concept in their daily production to minimize waste and could be implemented to efficiently choose factors.

ASSESSING A MODIFIED CARBONATE DIGESTION PROTOCOL FOR INCREASED CARBON DIOXIDE RECOVERY DURING CREMATED BONE PRETREATMENT

ABSTRACT Cremated bones are a commonly preserved material and often found in burial environments where unburned bone may not be preserved. As such direct radiocarbon dating of cremated bone could be essential in determining the chronology of an event. Pretreatment of cremated bone exploits the structural carbonate component of the bone which survives cremation. However, due to the low abundance (ca. 0.1%) of this component, the extraction of an amount of endogenous carbon sufficient for radiocarbon dating may represent a challenge. Here we investigate two modifications to the phosphoric acid digestion protocol used during the preparation of cremated bones at the Oxford Radiocarbon Accelerator Unit (ORAU). The first of these was to use ultrasonication to release evolved CO2 from the viscous phosphoric acid and cremated bone mixture that is formed during digestion. The second was to double the amount of time during which evolved CO2 was removed from the reaction vessel by transfer into a cryogenically cooled ampoule. Ultrasonication of the digestion mixture failed to produce a significantly higher carbon yield, while double-time collection resulted in an average 21.5±13.8% increase of C yield without affecting the measured age. Extending the collection time can better enable reliable dating of small (less than 1 g) samples.

Improving Communication Networks to Transfer Data in Real Time for Environmental Monitoring and Data Collection

Integrated communication networks (CN) have proven successful in tracking environmental activities, wherein several sensors are installed throughout diverse surroundings to gather data or observe certain events. CNs, comprising several interacting detectors, have proven effective in various applications by transmitting data via diverse transmission methods inside the communication system. The erratic and constantly changing surroundings necessitate conventional CNs to engage in frequent conversations to disseminate the latest data, potentially incurring substantial connection expenses through joint data gathering and dissemination. High-frequency communications are prone to failure due to the extensive distance of data transfer. This research presents a unique methodology for multi-sensor environmental monitoring networks utilizing autonomous systems. The transmission system can mitigate elevated communication costs and Single Point of Failing (SPOF) challenges by employing a decentralized method that facilitates in-network processing. The methodology employs Boolean systems, enabling a straightforward verification process while preserving essential details about the dynamics of the communication system. The methodology further simplifies the data collection process and employs a Reinforcement Learning (RL) technique to forecast future events inside the surroundings by recognizing patterns.

Occurrences of Neuroptera and Raphidioptera in some regions in European Russia.

The document presents an extensive set of data on the occurrence of Neuroptera and Raphidioptera in some regions of European Russia. The results of our own research, as well as scientific collections, have been processed. The data were collected in 17 regions. In our own research, we used different ways to obtain information, which allowed us to collect extensive material for the dataset. This dataset provides valuable information about the biodiversity of Neuroptera and Raphidioptera, the abundance of each taxon collected and the time of taxon collections. Our dataset contains up-to-date information on the occurrence of Neuroptera and Raphidioptera in the Volga River and Don River Basins located in the Russian Plain of European Russia (17 regions of European Russia). The dataset consists of 4,826 occurrence records. All of them are georeferenced (17,373 individuals were studied). A total of 83 species of Neuroptera (8 families, 36 genera) and four species of Raphidioptera (2 families, 4 genera) were recorded within the investigated area.

Clinical Test Comparison for Improved Diagnosis of Mucormycosis

Abstract Mucormycosis is a rapidly progressive and invasive fungal infection caused by members of the order Mucorales. Proper treatment relies on a timely diagnosis. However, traditional fungal culture takes several days to weeks and has low sensitivity for recovering Mucorales, as these organisms are sensitive to specimen preparation, including tissue homogenization, and low storage temperatures. More rapid and sensitive diagnostic methods are needed to promptly detect infection. Our laboratory previously developed a real-time PCR assay that detects the most common genera associated with mucormycosis to help improve diagnosis. The assay was analytically validated for a variety of specimen types including serum, tissue (both fresh and FFPE), respiratory secretions and body fluids. Little is known about the agreement between our laboratory developed PCR and other detection methods such as culture or sequencing. We reviewed 6 years of laboratory data to assess overall PCR positivity rate, positivity rate across sample types, and agreement with culture and/or pan-fungal sequencing. We also calculated turnaround time to results to gauge the diagnostic value of Mucorales PCR. Test comparisons with fungal culture and/or pan-fungal sequencing were performed if testing was ordered within 30 days of each other. In our study, we reviewed 3,804 total PCR orders for 2,195 patients. The overall positivity rate of Mucorales PCR orders was 3.81% and varied among different sample types, with fresh tissue and body fluid having the highest positivity rates (18.11% total tissue (33.3% lung tissue) and 10.94% all body fluid (12.5% pleural fluid)) and sputum and CSF having the lowest positivity rates (<1% positivity for both). In a cohort of 428 patients with fungal culture and/or sequencing also performed, 29 patients tested positive for Mucorales by at least one method. PCR detected Mucorales on average 7.83 days sooner than fungal culture (average time to positive result: 3.65 vs. 11.47 days). In patients with culture- or sequencing-confirmed Mucorales infection, PCR had a 100% agreement when comparing shared samples from the same source and collection time. Mucorales PCR was also able to detect infection in 10 (34.5%) other patients who were culture-negative for Mucorales. Our findings suggest that PCR could be a valuable diagnostic tool for suspected mucormycosis, especially tissue invasive disease. PCR increased case detection by 34.5% with a faster turnaround time than culture with lesser cost than sequencing. The main limitation of our study was lack of access to patient information to assess pretest probability of Mucormycosis.

Culture failure and suboptimal analysis in cytogenetics: A data review as a quality improvement metric from a resource-limited country

Abstract Introduction/Objective Conventional cytogenetic failures can affect hematological cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Resource-constrained regions without contemporary genetic testing facilities may experience this impact more. The effectiveness of this technique is contingent on cultural success, availability of metaphases, and morphological adequacy. The results can be influenced by the underlying diagnosis, inherent biological features of the leukemic clone, sample conditions, and transit time. Culture failure (CF) and suboptimal analysis (SOA) data can identify problems and set standards. Thus, we designed a cohort to find areas of improvement and reduce negative contributing factors, making this cytogenetic technique more accessible and cost-effective. Methods/Case Report A retrospective study was conducted at Cytogenetics laboratory at Indus hospital, Karachi. From January 2021 to March 2023, 1234 blood and bone marrow samples were processed. CF was defined as no growth, whereas suboptimal cases showed a low mitotic index or poor morphology. Data analysis included collection and processing time, sample volume, cell count, specimen type, in-house or out-reach sample, and diagnosis. Armonk, NY-based IBM SPSS 24.0 used to analyze the data. Chi-square used to find association of various factors with karyotyping. A p-value < 0.05 indicated significance. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) Of 1234 samples, 1110 (90%) were bone marrow and 124 (10%) were peripheral blood. There were 32/1234 (2.6%) CF cases. Each CF case was found in bone marrow samples, making the true incidence 32/1110 (2.9%). Constitutional blood tests found no CF in 124 samples. Additionally, chromosomal analysis quality was assessed. SOA occurred in 105/1234 (8.5%) instances, with 58% having poor morphology and 31% having a low mitotic index. Among 137 CF and SOA patients, 134/1110 (12%) were found in marrow and 3/124 (2.4%) in blood. Conclusion Lower CF rates suggest that appropriate standards and quality management may reduce cytogenetic failure rates despite resource constraints and newly established services.

Evaluating the contributions and economic costs for Walleye fry and fingerling stocking in a large midwestern reservoir

Stocking is a common management practice to maintain Walleye populations where natural recruitment is low or to introduce and sustain Walleye populations outside of their native range. Walleye can be stocked at multiple lengths (e.g., fry and fingerling) and different sizes of stocked Walleye may contribute differently to Walleye year class strength, depending on the system into which they are stocked. The cost associated with stocking also varies by product. Therefore, it is important to determine the contributions from different stocked products within a region or for an individual waterbody. The objectives of our research were to 1) compare the relative contribution of and total length and body condition at the time of capture at age-0 between stocked Walleye fry and fingerlings and naturally produced individuals; and 2) estimate and compare the economic costs of Walleye fry and fingerling production relative to their contribution to the age-0 catch in Lake McConaughy during 2022 and 2023.We collected 178 and 263 age-0 Walleyes from Lake McConaughy during the summer and fall of 2022 and 2023, respectively. Fingerling-stocked Walleye contributed 2.12 times in 2022 and 2.92 times more in 2023 than fry-stocked Walleye. Production cost estimates revealed that fry cost 1.08 and 1.35 times greater than fingerlings per stocking unit in 2022 and 2023, thus fingerlings were deemed the most cost-effective product in this study. Walleye stocked as fry were significantly longer at the time of collection in 2022 and were in significantly better condition in both years compared to fingerling stocked Walleye. Our results provide valuable insights for fisheries managers by offering a case study example as well as offering a practical approach to guide effective management decisions on which stocked product is most appropriate for other systems. Overall, this research enhances the existing literature on Walleye stocking in large reservoir systems, offering practical and useful information for effective management decisions.

Risk Factor Profile of Ischemic Stroke Patients

Aims: To determine the risk factor profile of ischemic stroke patients at the Indonesian Christian University Hospital in the period January 2018-January 2022 Place and Duration of Study: This research was conducted at the Indonesian Christian University Hospital with data collection and research time in July 2022-July 2023. Methodology: The type of research taken for this research is descriptive research with a cross-sectional design. This research collected medical record data from ischemic stroke patients in the period January 2018-January 2022. Later the medical record data was obtained and analyzed to examine the risk factor profile of ischemic stroke patients at the Indonesian Christian University Hospital. The population used in this study were patients suffering from ischemic stroke who came to the Indonesian Christian University Hospital in the period January 2018-January 2022. The sampling technique used a total sampling technique where the amount of medical record data is the same as the number of samples used for research. Results: The results showed that the most dominant age ≥61 years with a total of 42 patients (64.4%), the most dominant sex was male with 35 patients (53.8%), ischemic stroke patients worked 38 patients (68.5%), the most dominant risk factor was hypertension with 62 patients (95.4%), the obesity risk factor with 48 patients (73.8%), risk factor for the history of heart disease with a total of 35 patients (53.8%), smoking risk factors for 33 patients (50.8%), risk factors for not having diabetes mellitus for 36 patients (55.4%), risk factors for not having dyslipidemia for 36 patients (55.4%) and risk factors for having normal uric acid levels for 43 patients (66.2%) Conclusion: From the research results it can be concluded that the Risk Factor Profile of Ischemic Stroke Patients at the Indonesian Christian University Hospital in The period January 2018-January 2022 includes gender which is dominated by men with worker group status. The most common risk factor suffered by ischemic stroke patients is the risk factor of hypertension.

Can We Effectively Allocate Time for Work and Life and Be Happy? The Empirical Evidence from Self-Employed Persons in Lithuania

There is not enough attention paid to the analysis of time allocation in the context of happiness. Perhaps it is because happiness economics is an expanding interdisciplinary field. So, recommendations for self-employed persons in Lithuania how daily time should be effectively allocated for life (sleep, personal care, study, housework, family care, leisure, travel and other activities) and work in order to be happy still remain an open question. In this paper the specific recommendations about it are provided for that case. So, this paper analyses two phenomena, i.e. time allocation and happiness. The main attention is given to self-employed persons in Lithuania during 2019 years. Data collection (time diary, survey, interview) and optimization methods are used to identify how daily time should be effectively allocated for two main areas (work and life) in order for self-employed persons to be happy. Having mathematical modeling of time allocation and happiness accomplished, it has been found that 36.1% of day time should be allocated for work and the rest time of the day (63.9%) should be allocated for life. The person’s levels of job satisfaction, life satisfaction and happiness should be equal to 9 points (on a ten-point scale). In this case, monthly net income would be 1001 euros and desirable monthly net income 1101 euros. The number of children should be two. The scientific and practical uniqueness of this article lies in the creation of a mathematical model that can determine how to effectively allocate work time and life time in order for a person to be happy. Although the mathematical model constructed in this paper is based on Lithuanian data, it is not country specific.

Interoception and body image in breast cancer patients: a mindfulness-based stress reduction protocol.

Breast cancer impairs physical and psychological well-being, even some years after treatments. Oncological treatments can strongly affect the body due to scars and breast(s) removal, for example, increasing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Psychological studies are effective in improving breast cancer survivors' emotions and behaviors through several approaches to interventions. Over years, the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) has been evaluated as an effective intervention to promote well-being in breast cancer survivors. The present study protocol aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a MBSR intervention in regulating interoceptive sensations, as the ability to be aware of inner sensations. Second, it seeks to identify changes in interoceptive feelings, mood, and body perception following the intervention. These changes will be evaluated across three data collection times to assess differences about emotions and body perception over time, focusing on their relevance for breast cancer survivors' well-being. Finally, the present study protocol aims to detect improvements in anxiety, depression, and body awareness, considering the potential positive impact of the MBSR approach on emotional well-being. Direction for future psychological intervention are given.

Combining linguistic and non-linguistic expression in reading in the performative university

ABSTRACT This study investigates the complementarity between linguistic and non-linguistic modes of expression in reading in Higher Education and how this combination can counterbalance the accountability that characterises the measured university in current times. Participants are Argentine college students aged 21–22 at the time of data collection. They read a literary narrative text in Spanish about a culturally familiar theme – a regional Christmas celebration. The hypothesis that the native language and the familiar topic would facilitate cultural understanding was not confirmed. The case is innovative because cultural understanding is generally investigated using research instruments and measures of analysis that focus on memory and recall. By contrast, here participants completed a reading response task and a visual reformulation, which enabled the combination of linguistic and non-linguistic modes of expression – the latter not usually favoured by schools and universities. Content analysis shows the complexity and fluidity of cultural understanding in Higher Education even when students read about familiar cultural content in their native language. The article is of interest to educators and researchers involved with reading-mediated courses, activities and tasks in Higher Education. Implications for pedagogy are explored.

Caregivers on point: a randomized treatment–control prevention trial for foster and kinship caregivers to reduce behavior challenges among children in foster care

BackgroundChildren in foster care who are newly placed with licensed or kinship caregivers are often vulnerable to increased behavior problems associated with trauma and social disruptions. When those issues are not addressed, children are susceptible to placement disruptions that exacerbate behavior problems. Few preventive interventions are available for foster and kinship caregivers, and none are designed to be delivered at the time of a child’s placement into the home. This study aims to examine the impact of the Chicago Parent Program adapted and customized for foster and kinship caregivers (CPP-FC), locally branded as Caregivers on Point, on caregiver stress, parenting confidence and strategies, children’s behaviors, and placement stability.MethodsCaregivers (N = 300) are being recruited from a specialized foster care clinic that sees children and caregivers within five business days of a new placement. Upon completing baseline surveys and behavioral observation, caregiver-child dyads are randomized to receive CPP-FC (n = 150) or usual care (n = 150). Those in the treatment condition will complete 11 weekly sessions addressing child behavior management and caregiving approaches. A booster session will occur one month after the weekly sessions conclude. A mid-point assessment and behavioral observation will be collected four months after the baseline assessment for all participants, coinciding with the completion of the CPP-FC programming. At 6 months post-baseline, an end-of-study assessment will be collected. Administrative data will be extracted from the child welfare record to determine placement stability for the 12 months following enrolment. The primary outcome of interest is child behavior, indicated by changes in caregiver reports and objective ratings of behavior from observations, where raters are blinded to the treatment arm and timing of data collection. Secondary outcomes include placement stability and changes in caregiver stress and confidence in managing children’s behavior.DiscussionIf found to be effective, CPP-FC would be helpful for families involved with child welfare. It could be delivered by child welfare agencies, licensing and kinship navigator agencies, and foster care clinics and may be eligible for government reimbursement as a preventive intervention for children in foster care.Trial registrationThis study was prospectively registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06170047.

Fast Collective Hydrogen-Bond Dynamics in HexafluoroisopropanolRelated to its Chemical Activity.

Using fluorinated mono-alcohols, in particular hexafluoro-isopropanol (HFIP), as a solvent can enhance chemical reaction rates in a spectacular manner. Previous work has shown evidence that this enhancement is related to the hydrogen-bond structure of these liquids. Here, we investigate the hydrogen-bond dynamics of HFIP and compare it to thatof its non-fluorinated analog, isopropanol. Ultrafast infrared spectroscopy show that the dynamics of individual hydrogen-bonds is about twice as slow in HFIP as in isopropanol. Surprisingly, from dielectric spectroscopy we find the opposite behavior for the dynamics of hydrogen-bonded clusters: collective rearrangements are3 times faster in HFIP than in isopropanol. This difference indicates that the hydrogen-bonded clusters in HFIP are smaller than in isopropanol. The differences in cluster size can be traced to changes in the hydrogen-bond donor and acceptor strengths upon fluorination. The smaller cluster size canboostreaction rates in HFIP by increasing the concentration of reactive, terminal OH-groups of the clusters, whereas the fast collective dynamics can increase the rate of formation of hydrogen bonds with the reactants. The longer lifetime of the individual hydrogen bonds in HFIP can enhance the stability of the hydrogen-bonded clusters, and so increase the probability of reactant-solvent hydrogen bonding.

Neurointerventional surveys between 2000 and 2023: a systematic review

BackgroundSurveys are increasingly used in neurointervention to gauge physicians’ and patients’ attitudes, practice patterns, and ‘real-world’ treatment strategies, particularly in conditions for which few, or no evidence-based, recommendations exist. While...

Characterizing best practices for tonsil-oral-scrubbing (TOSc) collection for PRRSV RNA detection in sows

BackgroundA Tonsil-Oral-Scrubbing (TOSc) method was developed to sample the sow’s oropharyngeal and tonsillar area without snaring and has shown comparable porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) RNA detection rates with tonsil scraping in infected sows. This study investigated the effect of specific TOSc collection factors on the PRRSV RT-rtPCR results (detection rates and Ct values). Those factors include whether the sow was snared or not snared at TOSc collection (“snared” vs. “not snared”); whether the sow was laying down or standing at collection (“laying down” vs. “standing”); and type of collectors used for TOSc collection (“TOSc prototype” vs. “Spiral-headed AI catheter (SHAC)”). Volume of fluid was compared between “snared” and “not snared” groups, and collection time was compared between “laying down” and “standing” groups as well.ResultsThe effect for each factor was assessed in three independent studies following the same design: TOSc was collected twice from each studied sow, once with the baseline level for a factor (“not snared”, or “standing”, or “TOSc prototype”), and another time followed by the other level of the paired factor (“snared”, “laying down”, or “SHAC”, correspondingly). Results showed that “not snared” TOSc had numerically higher PRRSV RNA detection rate (60.7% vs. 52.5%, p = 0.11), significantly lower median Ct values (31.9 vs. 32.3, p < 0.01), and significantly higher volume of fluid than “snared” samples (1.8 mL vs. 1.2 mL, p < 0.01); “laying down” TOSc samples did not differ statistically (60.7% vs. 60.7%) in the PRRSV RNA detection rate, obtained numerically lower median Ct values (30.9 vs. 31.3, p = 0.19), but took 40% less collection time compared to “standing” TOSc samples; samples collected using the “TOSc prototype” had numerically higher PRRSV RNA detection rate (91.7% vs. 88.3%, p = 0.27) and significantly lower median Ct values (32.8 vs. 34.5, p < 0.01) than that from “SHAC”.ConclusionsUnder the conditions of this study best practices for TOSc collection aiming higher detection rate of PRRSV RNA while minimizing time for collection were suggested to be sampling TOSc without snaring, when sows are laying down, and using a prototype TOSc collector.

Afektinės būsenos savižudybės procese: patirtys ir formavimosi prielaidos

The emergence of affective states during the process of suicide is regarded as a serious indicator of suicide risk. This study aims to describe the experience of affective states characteristic of the suicide process and to raise assumptions about how these affective states develop over a person’s lifetime. A qualitative approach was employed in this study, with the objective of retrospectively exploring individuals’ life experiences through in-depth semistructured interviews. The research sample comprises 12 participants (4 men, 1 person with a nonbinary gender identity, and 7 women) who had attempted suicide no more than one year prior to the study and were receiving treatment at the Vilnius City Mental Health Centre at the time of data collection. Data were analysed using phenomenological interpretive analysis to identify recurring experiential patterns. The analysis revealed nine main experiential themes: some life difficulties experienced during the suicide process were not perceived as related to suicidality; repeated traumatic events provided a foundation for the formation of deep feelings of deficiency; a compensatory mechanism emerged to fill these feelings of deficiency; exhaustion developed from the effort to maintain this compensatory mechanism; the main trigger directly challenged the compensatory mechanism; an affective state followed the experience of the primary trigger; during the affective state, dissociation may help isolate psychological pain; suicidal thoughts during the affective state are experienced as arising automatically; and suicide is perceived as a means to end suffering. The findings of the study indicate that individuals’ narratives reveal a pattern of the formation of affective states characteristic of the suicide process. Through reflection, individuals are able to intuitively distinguish significant, distressing life events from those irrelevant to the suicide process and reconsider their experiences. This ability is a valuable resource for both intervention and postvention efforts.

Predicting Financial Failure of Public Teaching Hospitals: An Application of Fuzzy Clustering Analysis

Purpose –To develop a novel prediction model and determine the variables that best predict hospitals’ financial failures. Design/methodology/approach –A fuzzy C-means clustering analysis was conducted using financial ratios from MoH Hospitals’ financial databases. Hospital Fuzzy Financial Health Scores (HF-HFS) then were calculated the as the degree of financial failure measured through the selected n-cluster model. Findings –The results show that the number of teaching hospitals experiencing financial failure has increased. HF-FHS scores also were compared with the modified Altman Z scoresa commonly used financial distress measure in the hospital service sector. The HF-FHS scores in good and poor financial conditions differ significantly. The HF-FHS scores were also strongly correlated with the Altman Z scores. Discussion –The rising trend in the number of hospitals experiencing financial difficulties over the years may cause some hospitals in financial distress to fail to fulfill their obligations, which may disrupt the services provided. In such a situation, good management skills, which are the most important factor reducing the financial risks of hospitals, will not work after a certain point.Conclusions –The findings indicate Fuzzy C Means clustering as a viable option to evaluate the financial failure of hospitals compared to more traditional methods such as Altman Z scores. Hospitals still face financial pressures due to market and structural factors such as the global budget repayment system, pricing and collection time, and insufficient competition conditions.Predicting hospitals’ financial failures can help develop managerial policies and strategies to recognize and combat risks, improveperformance, and improve the current situation of hospitals.

Impact of season on phytochemistry with special reference to β-Asarone content, extract yield and Pharmacognostic parameter in rhizome of Acorus calamus L.

Demand of medicinal plants is growing exponentially due to its extensive use in nutraceutical, cosmeceutical and pharmaceutical industries. The major problem is the variation in quality and quantity of phytoconstituents with the collection of medicinal plants in each batch. Though, the quality and quantity of phytoconstituents in plants are influenced by various factors, chief among them is seasonal variation. Rhizome of Acorus calamus L. is used in treatment of neurological disorder specially in children. The Ayurvedic system of medicine believes blends of constituent imparts therapeutic activities. The main chemical constituent responsible for cognition enhancement is Asarone. An attempt has been taken to record change in Pharmacognostic parameter with season and evaluate the best collection time of rhizome of Acaorus calamus L. with special reference to extractive value and asarone content.

12369 Clinical Experience With Inclisiran At An Academic Center

Abstract Disclosure: L. Chavez Marin: None. M. Gonzalez: None. M.F. Linton: None. B.G. Carranza Leon: None. Background: Inclisiran, a small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecule designed to inhibit proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), is the only siRNA approved for management of elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in both primary (for patients with familial hypercholesterolemia) and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. In clinical trials, Inclisiran has been shown to reduce LDL-C by more than 50% in populations at high cardiovascular risk. However, real world data about its tolerability and efficacy is still limited. Methods: We conducted an electronic medical record search to identify subjects who were prescribed Inclisiran at a lipid clinic within Vanderbilt University Medical Center (Nashville, USA). Subjects were included if they received at least one dose of Inclisiran and had pre- and post- LDL-C levels. Subjects taking other LDL-C lowering medications like statins, ezetimibe, bempedoic acid, and PCSK-9 inhibitors were included. Pre- and post- LDL-C averages were calculated and analyzed with 95% confidence intervals. The reasons for medication discontinuation were also examined. Results: Out of 69 subjects identified, only 19 met criteria for inclusion, while 32 never received a dose due to cost burden and insurance denial. The other 18 subjects were not included due to inadequate lab results at the time of data collection. In subjects who received at least one dose of Inclisiran, average pre-LDL-C was 142 mg/dL [CI: 34.7] while post-LDL-C was 77 mg/dL [CI: 24.0], notable for a 46% decrease in LDL-C levels. These subjects were also receiving another lipid lowering agent, like a statin, or had previously used a monoclonal antibody-PCSK-9 inhibitor. Those without prior use of PCSK-9 inhibitors were also analyzed. Average pre-LDL-C was 109.5 mg/dL [CI: 15.8] while post-LDL-C was 39.8 mg/dL [CI: 17.2], which revealed a 64% decrease in LDL-C levels. The main reason for discontinuation of Inclisiran was insurance denial followed by individual preference. Only one subject discontinued Inclisiran due to experiencing a generalized rash. Conclusions: Inclisiran is an effective and overall well-tolerated medication indicated for the management of elevated LDL cholesterol. Our study revealed that for individuals with above goal LDL-C, despite maximum tolerated therapy with a statin, additional LDL-C lowering benefits can be seen with Inclisiran use. However, insurance approval and cost burden seem to be the main barriers for access. Presentation: 6/3/2024