Progress in the Study of Laboratory Indicators Related to Acute Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is one of the more common gastrointestinal diseases in clinics and is characterized by rapid progression, many complications, and high mortality. When it develops into severe pancreatitis, its prognosis is poor. Therefore, early assessment of the degree of inflammatory response plays a crucial role in the treatment plan and prognosis of patients. More and more studies have shown that the levels of D-dimer (D-D), angiotensin-2 (Ang-2), phosphate, heparin-binding protein (HBP), retinol-binding protein-4 (RBP4), and osteoblastic protein (OPN) are closely related to the severity of acute pan-creatitis and can be used as effective indicators for early assessment of AP. In this paper, the research progress of the above indicators in assessing the severity of AP is summarized.

Risk Prediction Model for Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy Based on Routine Laboratory Indicators and Risk Factors: A Retrospective Analysis

Background: Hypertensive disorder of pregnancy (HDP) is a group of diseases in which pregnancy and elevated blood pressure coexist. There is still a lack of reliable clinical tools to predict the incidence of HDP. The purpose of this study was to establish and validate a nomogram prediction model for assessing the risk of HDP in pregnant women based on laboratory indicators and HDP risk factors. Method: A total of 307 pregnant women who were hospitalized in the obstetrics and gynecology department of our hospital were included in this study, and were randomly divided into a training cohort and validation cohort at a ratio of 7:3. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for the development of HDP on laboratory indicators as well as risk factors for HDP in the training cohort of patients. The results of the multivariate regression model were visualized by forest plots. A nomogram was constructed based on the results of multivariate logistic regression to predict the risk of HDP in pregnant women. The validity of the risk prediction model was evaluated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), the consistency index (C-index), the calibration curve and the decision curve analysis (DCA). Results: BMI ≥ 25 Kg/m2, total cholesterol in early pregnancy, uric acid and proteinuria in late pregnancy were independent risk factors for HDP. The AUC and C-index of the nomogram constructed by the above four factors were both 0.848. The calibration curve is closely fitted with the ideal diagonal, showing a good consistency between the nomogram prediction and the actual observation of HDP. The DCA has demonstrated the great clinical utility of nomogram. Internal verification proves the reliability of the predicted nomograms. Conclusion: The BTUP nomogram model based on laboratory indicators and risk factors proposed in this study showed good predictive value for the risk assessment of HDP. It is expected to provide evidence for clinical prediction of the risk of HDP in pregnant women.

Evidence-Based Nursing Practice of Reducing Immune-Related Skin Toxicity of Tumor Patients Guided by Sensitive Indicators

Purpose research on nursing sensitive indicators in tumor Patients application effect in immune-related skin toxicity management. Method select our hospital April to June, 202360 cases patients with immune therapy settings as the control group. August-October, 2023 60 cases the patients treated with immune therapy were the experimental group. The control group adopted regular nursing methods, while the experimental group sensitive Indicators, evidence-based give preventive care. The social situation, psychological state, physical function, quality of life score, incidence of skin toxicity caused by immune checkpoint inhibitors, moderate and above of the two groups of patients were compared. Incidence of skin toxicity. Result: experience group SAS score, SDS score higher than the control group, the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05);The incidence of skin toxic reactions caused by immune checkpoint inhibitors and the incidence of moderate and above skin toxic reactions in the experimental group are lower than those in the control group, and the difference is statistically significant (P < 0.05). Conclusion: sensitive indicator guidance evidence-based preventive care can reduce the degree of immune-related skin toxicity, improve the psychological state and quality of life of tumor patients treated with immune therapy and reduce the incidence of adverse reactions, improve nursing quality and patient satisfaction.

Investigating the causal associations between five anthropometric indicators and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease:Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND Although the etiology of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD)has not been thoroughly understood,the emerging roles of anthropometric indicators in assessing and predicting the risk of NAFLD have been highlighted by accumulating evidence.AIM To evaluate the causal relationships between five anthropometric indicators and NAFLD employing Mendelian randomization(MR)design.METHODS The Anthropometric Consortium provided genetic exposure data for five anthropometric indicators,including hip circumference(HC),waist circumference(WC),waist-to-hip ratio(WHR),body mass index(BMI),and body fat percentage(BF).Genetic outcome data for NAFLD were obtained from the United Kingdom Biobank and FinnGen Consortium.Genome-wide significant single nucleotide polymorphisms were chosen as instrumental variables.Univariable MR(UVMR)and multivariable MR(MVMR)designs with analytical approaches,including inverse variance weighted(IVW),MR-Egger,weighted median(WM),and weighted mode methods,were used to assess the causal relationships between anthropometric indicators and NAFLD.RESULTS Causal relationships were revealed by UVMR,indicating that a higher risk of NAFLD was associated with a perunit increase in WC[IVW:odds ratio(OR)=2.67,95%CI:1.42-5.02,P=2.25×10^(−3)],and BF was causally associated with an increased risk of NAFLD(WM:OR=2.23,95%CI:1.07-4.66,P=0.033).The presence of causal effects of WC on the decreased risk of NAFLD was supported by MVMR after adjusting for BMI and smoking.However,no causal association between BF and NAFLD was observed.In addition,other causal relationships of HC,WHR(BMI adjusted),and BMI with the risk of NAFLD were not retained after FDR correction.CONCLUSION This study establishes a causal relationship,indicating that an increase in WC is associated with a higher risk of NAFLD.This demonstrates that a suitable decrease in WC is advantageous for preventing NAFLD.

Study on Temperature Disaster Indicators of Passion Fruit in Southwest Fujian, China

In China, meteorological forecasting relies on meteorological data obtained from regional and national stations. However, there were discrepancies between the data collected from the meteorological station at the passion fruit growing base and the data from regional and national stations. Consequently, the high and low temperature disaster indicators determined by the meteorological station at the passion fruit growing base cannot be applied to meteorological forecasting. To address this issue and facilitate the monitoring and early warning of high and low temperature disasters in passion fruit cultivation in Fujian, China, we used multi-source hourly temperature data (including the data from meteorological observation stations in passion fruit growing bases, the nearest regional stations, and national surface conventional meteorological observation stations) in three cities in southwestern Fujian (Longyan, Sanming, and Zhangzhou) spanning the years 2020 to 2022. By employing comprehensive statistical analysis methods (0.5 interval division and Cumulative frequency), we identified that passion fruit in southwestern Fujian was susceptible to high temperature disasters during the blooming-fruiting period, as well as low temperature disasters during the sprouting period. Consequently, we developed high and low temperature disaster indicators based on data from regional and national stations for different phenological periods of passion fruit in this region.

Influence of reduced-port laparoscopic surgery on perioperative indicators, postoperative recovery, and serum inflammation in patients with colorectal carcinoma

BACKGROUND Conventional five-port laparoscopic surgery,the current standard treatment for colorectal carcinoma(CRC),has many disadvantages.AIM To assess the influence of reduced-port laparoscopic surgery(RPLS)on perioperative indicators,postoperative recovery,and serum inflammation indexes in patients with CRC.METHODS The study included 115 patients with CRC admitted between December 2019 and May 2023,52 of whom underwent conventional five-port laparoscopic surgery(control group)and 63 of whom underwent RPLS(research group).Comparative analyses were performed on the following dimensions:Perioperative indicators[operation time(OT),incision length,intraoperative blood loss(IBL),and rate of conversion to laparotomy],postoperative recovery(first postoperative exhaust,bowel movement and oral food intake,and bowel sound recovery time),serum inflammation indexes[high-sensitivity C-reactive protein(hs-CRP),tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),and interleukin-6(IL-6)],postoperative complications(anastomotic leakage,incisional infection,bleeding,ileus),and therapeutic efficacy.RESULTS The two groups had comparable OTs and IBL volumes.However,the research group had a smaller incision length;lower rates of conversion to laparotomy and postoperative total complication;and shorter time of first postoperative exhaust,bowel movement,oral food intake,and bowel sound recovery;all of which were significant.Furthermore,hs-CRP,IL-6,and TNF-αlevels in the research group were significantly lower than the baseline and those of the control group,and the total effective rate was higher.CONCLUSION RPLS exhibited significant therapeutic efficacy in CRC,resulting in a shorter incision length and a lower conversion rate to laparotomy,while also promoting postoperative recovery,effectively inhibiting the inflammatory response,and reducing the risk of postoperative complications.

Quality indicators in respiratory therapy

Quality indicators in healthcare refer to measurable and quantifiable parameters used to assess and monitor the performance,effectiveness,and safety of healthcare services.These indicators provide a systematic way to evaluate the quality of care offered,and thereby to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that patient care meets established standards and best practices.Respiratory therapists play a vital role in areas of clinical administration such as infection control practices and quality improvement initiatives.Quality indicators serve as essential metrics for respiratory therapy departments to assess and enhance the overall quality of care.By systematically tracking and analyzing indicators related to infection control,treatment effectiveness,and adherence to protocols,respiratory care practitioners can identify areas to improve and implement evidence-based changes.This article reviewed how to identify,implement,and monitor quality indicators specific to the respiratory therapy departments to set benchmarks and enhance patient outcomes.

Optimization Management of Industrial Organizations Based on Performance Indicators

This paper proposes an intelligent management system (IMS) to help managers in their delicate and tedious task of exploiting the plethora of data (indicators) contained in management dashboards. This system is based on intelligent agents, ontologies and data mining. It is implemented by PASSI (Process for Agent Societies Specification and Implementation) methods for agent design and implementation, the Methodology for Knowledge Modeling and Hot-Winters for data prediction. Intelligent agents not only track indicators but also store the knowledge of managers within the company. Ontologies are used to manage the representation and presentation aspects of knowledge. Data mining makes it possible to: make the most of all available data;model the industrial process of data selection, exploration and modeling;and transform behaviors into predictive indicators. An instance of the IMS named SYGISS, currently in operation within a large brewery organization, allows us to observe very interesting results: the extraction of indicators is done in less than 5 minutes whereas manual extraction used to take 14 days;the generation of dashboards is instantaneous whereas it used to take 12 hours;the interpretation of indicators is instantaneous whereas it used to take a day;forecasts are possible and are done in less than 5 minutes whereas they did not exist with the old management. These important contributions help to optimize the management of this organization.

Development and Application of Integrated Indicators for Assessing Healthcare Waste Management Systems in Kenyan Hospitals

Healthcare waste management (HCWM) is an important aspect of healthcare delivery globally because of its hazardous and infectious components that have potential for adverse health and environmental impacts. The paper introduces a set of indicators for assessing HCWM systems in hospitals. These indicators are: HCWM policies and standard operating procedures, management and oversight, logistics and budget support, training and occupational health and safety, and treatment, disposal and waste treatment equipment housing. By plotting a mark on a continuum which is defined as good and poor on the extremes and is connected with all other marks in a spoke arrangement, it’s possible to describe a baseline for HCWM in any specific hospital. This baseline can be used to improve awareness of the actors and policy-makers, compare the same hospital at a different point in time, to compare observations by different evaluators and to track improvements. Results suggest that in Kenya, the application of such indicators is useful for evaluating which priorities should be addressed to improve outcomes in HCWM systems. Systematic sampling technique was used to identify and collect data by use of observational checklist, interviews, visual verification and review of documents and a HCWM assessment tool. The objective is to suggest an integrated management tool as a method to identify prevailing problems with a HCWM system. The method can be replicated in other contexts worldwide, with a focus on the developing world. The integrated indicators focus on management of HCW and not its potential impact on human health and environment, an area recognized to be critical for future research.

Contribution of the MERISE-Type Conceptual Data Model to the Construction of Monitoring and Evaluation Indicators of the Effectiveness of Training in Relation to the Needs of the Labor Market in the Republic of Congo

This study proposes the use of the MERISE conceptual data model to create indicators for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of vocational training in the Republic of Congo. The importance of MERISE for structuring and analyzing data is underlined, as it enables the measurement of the adequacy between training and the needs of the labor market. The innovation of the study lies in the adaptation of the MERISE model to the local context, the development of innovative indicators, and the integration of a participatory approach including all relevant stakeholders. Contextual adaptation and local innovation: The study suggests adapting MERISE to the specific context of the Republic of Congo, considering the local particularities of the labor market. Development of innovative indicators and new measurement tools: It proposes creating indicators to assess skills matching and employer satisfaction, which are crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of vocational training. Participatory approach and inclusion of stakeholders: The study emphasizes actively involving training centers, employers, and recruitment agencies in the evaluation process. This participatory approach ensures that the perspectives of all stakeholders are considered, leading to more relevant and practical outcomes. Using the MERISE model allows for: • Rigorous data structuring, organization, and standardization: Clearly defining entities and relationships facilitates data organization and standardization, crucial for effective data analysis. • Facilitation of monitoring, analysis, and relevant indicators: Developing both quantitative and qualitative indicators helps measure the effectiveness of training in relation to the labor market, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation. • Improved communication and common language: By providing a common language for different stakeholders, MERISE enhances communication and collaboration, ensuring that all parties have a shared understanding. The study’s approach and contribution to existing research lie in: • Structured theoretical and practical framework and holistic approach: The study offers a structured framework for data collection and analysis, covering both quantitative and qualitative aspects, thus providing a comprehensive view of the training system. • Reproducible methodology and international comparison: The proposed methodology can be replicated in other contexts, facilitating international comparison and the adoption of best practices. • Extension of knowledge and new perspective: By integrating a participatory approach and developing indicators adapted to local needs, the study extends existing research and offers new perspectives on vocational training evaluation.

Establishing Standardized Nursing Quality Sensitive Indicators

This is a pilot research project was prepared to assess the impact of implementing essential standardized nursing quality sensitive indicators in monitoring, evaluating, and controlling the nursing services and activities which implemented in daily nursing care works with the patients in a health institute, aiming for emphasizing the concept of “nursing quality sensitive indicators” which is valuable to elaborate nursing care performance, and for continuous upgrading of daily nursing care, which hopefully will result in more beneficial outcomes, and lesser negative or undesirable outcomes in all aspects of nursing care, and consequently the health care process, particularly regarding patient safety, patient satisfaction and nursing performance improvement. This pilot research project for the essential standardized nursing quality sensitive indicators was applied in intensive care unit (ICU) department in Qurayyat general hospital, and resulted in excellent improvement of all outcomes correlated with the essential standardized nursing quality sensitive indicators. These essential standardized nursing quality sensitive indicators are hopefully be accepted and accredited by the higher health authorities as standardized nursing quality sensitive indicators in health institutes.

Comparison of different preoperative objective nutritional indices for evaluating 30-d mortality and complications after liver transplantation

BACKGROUND The nutritional status is closely related to the prognosis of liver transplant re-cipients,but few studies have reported the role of preoperative objective nutri-tional indices in predicting liver transplant outcomes.AIM To compare the predictive value of various preoperative objective nutritional indicators for determining 30-d mortality and complications following liver transplantation(LT).METHODS A retrospective analysis was conducted on 162 recipients who underwent LT at our institution from December 2019 to June 2022.RESULTS This study identified several independent risk factors associated with 30-d mor-tality,including blood loss,the prognostic nutritional index(PNI),the nutritional risk index(NRI),and the control nutritional status.The 30-d mortality rate was 8.6%.Blood loss,the NRI,and the PNI were found to be independent risk factors for the occurrence of severe postoperative complications.The NRI achieved the highest prediction values for 30-d mortality[area under the curve(AUC)=0.861,P<0.001]and severe complications(AUC=0.643,P=0.011).Compared to those in the high NRI group,the low patients in the NRI group had lower preoperative body mass index and prealbumin and albumin levels,as well as higher alanine aminotransferase and total bilirubin levels,Model for End-stage Liver Disease scores and prothrombin time(P<0.05).Furthermore,the group with a low NRI exhibited significantly greater incidences of intraabdominal bleeding,primary graft nonfunction,and mortality.CONCLUSION The NRI has good predictive value for 30-d mortality and severe complications following LT.The NRI could be an effective tool for transplant surgeons to evaluate perioperative nutritional risk and develop relevant nutritional therapy.

Monitoring of Sleep Indicators, Physical Activity, Pain, and Fatigue in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Relations among These Variables: A Pilot Study

Background: Poor sleep, fatigue, and pain are major health problems in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, only cross-sectional surveys on these health outcomes have been conducted, and the association between day-to-day fluctuations remains unknown. Objectives: We aimed to characterize daily fluctuations in sleep quality, physical activity, pain, and fatigue in patients with SLE. Method: Exploratory study with a cross-sectional design. Two rheumatology centers (a university hospital and a prefectural hospital) in Japan between September 2017 and May 2019. The sample size was set to 20. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Sleep and physical activity were measured with monitoring devices;pain and fatigue levels were recorded daily during the 4-week period. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Short Form Health Survey-12, the Japanese version of the Lupus Patient Outcome, and SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 were collected at the start and end of the study. Descriptive statistics and coefficients of variation (CV) were tabulated to examine daily fluctuations. Pearson correlation coefficients were obtained for monitored variables. Results: The mean age was 43.7 ± 8.5 years, and the mean SLE duration was 16.0 ± 7.2 years. The mean moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) duration was 7.8 ± 5.8 min/day, and the mean total sleep duration was 391.8 ± 65.3 min, with a mean sleep efficiency of 88.6% ± 6.1%. Daily fluctuations were high for leaving the bed frequency, MVPA duration, pain, and waking after sleep onset. Seventeen participants showed correlations between some of the variables, such as fatigue or longer MVPA duration and poorer sleep outcomes;longer sleep latency and increased frequency of leaving the bed;and higher physical activity and increased pain and fatigue. Conclusion: The quality of sleep and fatigue fluctuated daily, and correlations existed between these variables, as well as for pain and physical activity. The impact of MVPA duration on pain and fatigue is of concern as increased physical activity may worsen the quality of life patients with SLE. The monitoring of sleep and physical activity using the device seems feasible for SLE symptom management.

Understanding Patients’ Symptoms Management Using Objective and Subjective Indicators among Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Background: Descriptive statistics have been used to document the high prevalence of sleep disorders, fatigue, and pain in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Objectives: To describe day-to-day variations in sleep indicators, physical activity level, pain, and fatigue measured using objective and subjective indicators in lupus patients with sleep disorders. Methods: We selected three patients with sleep disorders, measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score (≥9), out of 20 participants followed up for 4 weeks. We compared the self-rated quality of life (QoL) measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) with that of objectively measured sleep indicators monitored using the Nemuri scan. The detailed data collection methods have been previously published. Results: The sleep status generated by the Nemuri scan revealed that Case A with a flare and Case B without a flare required frequent daytime rest. The PSQI sleep duration and sleep latency were generally in agreement with the monitored data, although the PSQI failed to capture the complexity of sleep disorders, particularly the fluctuations in the quality of sleep indicators. Patient C approximately 4 hours on weekdays and 10 hours on Saturday nights. All three cases had high fatigue levels, and their moderate-to-vigorous physical activity duration was less than one-half of duration that recommended by the World Health Association. Conclusion: Visual display for objective monitoring of sleep quality is an excellent tool for understanding patients who require frequent resting and irregular sleep indicators. Objective monitoring of sleep quality, along with self-rated pain and fatigue, promotes an understanding of how patients with SLE cope with severe symptoms.

The Influence of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Treatment on the Quality of Life and Laboratory Indicators of Patients with Novel Coronavirus Pneumonia

Objective: To investigate the influence of integrated Chinese and Western medicine treatment on the quality of life and laboratory indicators of patients with novel coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19). Methods: A prospective, self-controlled study was conducted to analyze the changes in corresponding laboratory indicators and quality of life in 75 confirmed COVID-19 patients treated with integrated Chinese and Western medicine in our hospital during the early stage, middle stage, recovery period, and two weeks after discharge. The effectiveness and safety of the treatment regimen were evaluated in conjunction with the time for 2019-nCoV nucleic acid conversion, disease progression, and adverse reactions. Results: The PLT levels in the initial stage were significantly lower than those in the recovery period in 75 patients. The CRP levels in the initial stage were significantly lower than those after discharge for 2 weeks. The TBIL, IBTL, and DHIL levels in the initial stage were significantly lower than those in the middle stage. The K+ levels in the initial stage were significantly lower than those in the recovery period and after discharge for 2 weeks. The LYMGH levels in the initial stage were significantly lower than those in the recovery period and after discharge for 2 weeks. The TP and ALB levels in the initial stage were higher than those in the middle stage and the recovery period. The LDH levels, scores of daily activity limitation, scores of respiratory distress symptoms, scores of psychological emotions, CT imaging scores, and positive rate of nucleic acid were significantly lower than those in the recovery period and after discharge for 2 weeks. The AG, CK, CK-MB, and α-HBDH levels in the initial stage were significantly higher than those in the recovery period. However, the AMY level in the initial stage was significantly lower than that in the recovery period and after discharge for 2 weeks (p Conclusion: Integrated Chinese and Western medicine treatment has a significant impact on laboratory indicators such as PLT, LYMGH, CRP, TBIL, IBTL, DHIL, TP, ALB, K+, AG, LDH, CK, CK-MB, α-HBDH, AMY, CT imaging, and 2019-nCoV nucleic acid in COVID-19 patients. It has good clinical efficacy and safety, and can improve the quality of life of patients.

Does financial development moderate the link between technological innovation and environmental indicators?An advanced panel analysis

This study analyzes the role of financial development(FD)on the impact of technologi-cal innovation(TI)on six environmental quality indicators for the 25 economies that are part of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development for the period from 2000 to 2019.We use a two-step dynamic generalized method of moments approach to understand this relationship.The results show that FD augments the posi-tive effects of TI on four of the six environmental indicators,namely ecological foot-print,adjusted net savings,pressure on nature,and environmental performance.However,no significant effects on environmental sustainability and environmental vulnerability indices were found.When considering all of the environmental quality indicators,TI appears to enhance environmental quality.We find evidence to support the existence of the environmental Kuznets curve in the context of each environmen-tal indicator and economic growth.Moreover,FD and energy consumption appear to accelerate environmental degradation.Based on these results,FD should be viewed as an important parameter in designing policies for innovation to achieve the goal of net-zero carbon emissions.Highlights.Technological innovation and environmental quality nexus is studied.The moderating role of financial development is analyzed.Six different environmental quality indicators are used for OECD countries.Financial development intensifies the environmental benefits of innovation.•The EKC hypothesis is confirmed for all six environmental indicators.

Determination of Main Design Indicators of Patrol Road in Nature Reserves

In principle,nature reserves are managed and controlled according to the core area and the general control area.At present,there is no relevant design specification for the design system of patrol road in various protected areas.This paper analyzed the factors to be considered in determining the grade,horizontal and vertical design indicators,and cross section indicators of the patrol road in the protected area,and came up with the corresponding design indicators and parameters,so as to provide a certain reference for the subsequent patrol road design.

Effect of Storage Time on Main Quality Indicators of Cotton

The quality indicators of cotton will change during storage.Taking the 5.89 million t of Xinjiang cotton from 2016 to 2021 as a sample,this paper analyzed the main fiber quality indicator data of warehouse-in and warehouse-out cotton for storage of 1.5,3.0,4.0,5.0,6.0,and 7.0 years.It was found that the color grade of cotton decreased with the extension of storage time.The cotton with storage time of 5.0 years mainly changed from white cotton grade 2 and white cotton grade 3 to light yellow stained cotton grade 1 and yellow stained cotton grade 1.Among them,the increase of light yellow stained cotton grade 1 was the largest,and the change to yellow stained cotton grade 1 was the largest at the storage 6.0-7.0 years.In addition,there were no significant changes in moisture regain,Micronaire value,upper half mean length,length uniformity index and fiber strength.

Evaluation of Ear and Facial Indices of Ibibio and Efik Female Children of Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, Nigeria

Background: The ear and face are indispensable and distinctive features for hearing and identification. Objectives: This study was designed to generate anthropometric data of the ear and facial indices of females of Efik and Ibibio children in Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, show morphological and aesthetic differences and ethnicity. Methods: A total of 600 female children (300 Efiks and 300 Ibibios) aged 2 to 10 years that met the inclusion criteria were chosen from selected primary schools in Calabar Municipality, Calabar South of Cross River State and from Uyo, Itu of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Standardized measurements of face length, face width, ear length, and ear width were taken with a spreading caliper;the facial (proscopic) and ear (auricular) indices were determined. Results: Efik subjects presented a mean face length of 8.36 ± 0.06 cm, face width of 11.04 ± 0.04 cm, ear length of 4.92 ± 0.02 cm, and ear width of 3.06 ± 0.01 cm. Ibibio subjects had mean values for face length, face width, ear length, and ear width as 8.17 ± 0.05 cm, 10.75 ± 0.05 cm, 4.77 ± 0.03 cm, and 2.94 ± 0.02 cm respectively. The mean facial index and ear index for Efik subjects were 75.68 ± 0.31 and 62.16 ± 0.27 respectively;while the mean facial and ear indices for Ibibio subjects were 74.79 ± 0.36 and 61.80 ± 0.34 respectively. Statistical analysis demonstrated significant differences in face length, ear length, ear width and facial index, with the Efik subjects having higher values than Ibibio subjects (p Conclusion: The results showed hypereuryproscopic face as the prevalent face type among females of both ethnic groups, therefore can be of importance in sex, ethnic, and racial differentiation, and in clinical practice, aesthetics and forensic medicine.

Splenectomy: Indications in the General Surgery Department of Ignace Deen Hospital

Introduction: Splenectomy is the surgical removal of the spleen. It can be performed during various pathologies, ranging from abdominal trauma to hemoglobinopathies. The progress made in the knowledge of the immune functions of the spleen and the fear of post-splenectomy infectious complications have favored the development of surgical or non-surgical splenic preservation techniques calling into question the dogma of splenectomy. The aim of this study was to determine the indications for splenectomy. Methodology: This was a retrospective, descriptive study lasting 5 years in the general surgery department of the Ignace Deen National Hospital. All files of splenectomized patients were included, our variables were clinical, therapeutic and progressive. Results: We collected 42 cases of splenectomies out of the 2478 surgical procedures performed, representing 1.7% of the department’s surgical activities. The average age was 44 years. The age group of 41 to 50 years was the most represented, i.e. 26% (n = 11) of cases. Sex ratio = 1. Abdominal pain was the reason for consultation in patients, i.e. 100% (n = 42) of cases. The antecedents were dominated by recurrent malaria with 52.3% (n = 22) of cases, then recurrent anemia in 21% (n = 9), and 16.7% (n = 7) had sickle cell disease. Splenomegaly was found in 31 patients, or 73.6%. Ultrasound was performed in all patients. The indications for splenectomy were: isolated splenomegaly with risk of rupture (38%, n = 16), hypersplenism (26%, n = 11) and trauma to the spleen (19.04%, n = 8). Total splenectomy was performed in all cases. The surgical consequences were favorable in 85.7%, (n = 36) with morbidity of 14% (n = 6) and mortality of 9.52% (n = 4). The average length of hospitalization was 10.4 days with extremes of 1 and 22 days. Conclusion: Splenectomy constitutes a relatively common surgical procedure in our context. The indications for splenectomy were isolated splenomegaly with risk of rupture, hypersplenism and trauma to the spleen and total splenectomy was the rule.