bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficiency Measurement of the Colleges at the University of Sharjah
Authors: Kangooni Horiya Essa , Zervopoulos Panagiotis D.
Published: August 2023

This study estimates the relative efficiency of twelve colleges of the University of Sharjah from 2014 to 2019. The methodological approach we employed ensures the homogeneity of the colleges under review. We used an output-oriented smoothed bootstrap data envelopment analysis (DEA) model for the efficiency assessment while assuming that variable returns-to-scale prevail. Output orientation facilitates target-setting rather than cost-cutting, which is supported by input-oriented DEA models. Our analysis indicated an improvement in the efficiency of the University of Sharjah during the period under review. Also, the College of Communication, Engineering, and Law are the most influential benchmarks for the remaining colleges. However, the Colleges of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences and Business Administration present a definite improvement. Increasing the postgraduate student recruitment is more useful for further efficiency improvement of the University of Sharjah than expanding undergraduate student recruitment.
A Methodology for Safety Inspection Analysis Based on Risk Insight and Defense-in-Depth Concept for APR1400 Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: Bin Khadim Saud , Zubair Muhammad
Published: August 2023

To confirm the safety of Nuclear Power Plants (NPP) several regulatory safety inspections based on defense in depth criteria were conducted. However, once the plant is put into service the regulatory safety inspection must be focused on whether to minimize the risk of accident using defense-in-depth concept and risk insight obtained from probabilistic safety analysis. The regulatory oversight of accident prevention can be strengthened by requiring that safety improvements be considered through the use of deterministic and probabilistic approaches (such as probabilistic risk assessments (PRA). Hence, the incorporation of DID concept and risk insight into deterministic-based safety inspection has not been well studied so far since the regulatory safety inspection was developed depending on each country’s specific regulation. The aim of this study is to propose a methodology using APR1400 Large LOCA as a case study to develop Safety Inspection Methodology using AIMS-PSA as an analysis platform to develop Event tree and fault trees and analyze how to secure the success path and how to block the failure path in a specific event tree. This study will help to improve accident anticipation, high reliability, and risk assessments to maintain the operability of all safety systems and to ensure the long-term ability to mitigate any extreme accident scenarios
Modeling Crash Frequency Using Crash and Geometric Data at Freeways
Authors: Khetrish Abdulrauf , Abuzwidah Muamer , Barakat Samer
Published: August 2023

Road crashes are one of the leading causes of death and injuries in many countries around the world, which leads to enormous losses in terms of health, social, and economic aspects. Researchers are using different tools to locate, assess, and treat hazard spots in the road network. this paper aims to investigate and understand the important variables that contribute to road crashes using different crash frequency modeling techniques. Negative Binomial and Poisson regression models were used to identify the most significant variables that increase the crash frequency on the roads. The study was conducted on data obtained from the Highway Safety Information System database for a 5-years crash period in the state of North Carolina. The results of these models showed that for the Poisson model, the p-value was significant for the segment length, AADT, speed limit, right shoulder width, and median width while the left shoulder width and number of lanes weren’t significant. The coefficient estimate B sign could be used to indicate the type of contribution to the independent variable, all the dependent variables were positive signs except for speed and median width. Therefore, the increase in speed limit will decree the number of crashes. In contrast to the Poisson model, the negative binomial model showed significance only in three variables segment length, AADT, and the speed limit, the rest are not significant based on p-value, similar to Poisson the coefficient estimate B sign for the speed was negative. As expected, the increase of exposure increases the likelihood of being in a crash, therefore countermeasures are urgently needed to manage the speed, improve traffic operation, and enhance traffic safety.
Predicting Traffic Accidents Severity Using Multiple Analytical Techniques
Authors: Elawady Ahmed , Abuzwidah Muamer , Barakat Samer , Lee Jaeyoung
Published: August 2023

Road accidents are a major world economic and social problem, as shown by the report of loss of lives and properties in many countries worldwide. Reporting indicated the number of fatalities from road accidents per year of about 1.35 million and 50 million injuries was recorded or an average of 3000 deaths/day and 30,000 injuries/ day. Furthermore, its consequences have an impact on economic and social conditions in terms of health care costs of injuries and disabilities. The objectives of this paper are to implement four modeling techniques, Logistic Regression, Naïve Bayes, Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), to predict accident severity and compare the performance of these models in terms of their prediction accuracy. More than 117,000 accident records with over 32 variables were retrieved from London. The results showed that the nonlinear SVM model outperformed other techniques in terms of performance with an accuracy of 78.32%. On the other hand, the linear SVM was the worst overall model with an accuracy of 69.27%. In terms of training time, a considerable difference was found between two groups of models: Logistic Regression, Naïve Bayes on one hand, and SVM and ANN on the other group. The former required a shorter training time (less than 10 min for each model), while the latter had training times between 20 to 70 min per model. Overall, the nonlinear SVM seems to perform the best in terms of accuracy, while Naïve Bayes is the best for fast prediction. This result can be beneficial for researchers and practitioners to predict accident severity levels and suggest improvements to traffic safety.
Religiosity, Brand Image, and Behavioral Intention: An Investigation for Halal Restaurant
Authors: En Sulaiman , Battour Mohamed , Ratnasari Ririn Tri
Published: August 2023

Aim - This study aims to reveal the effect of religiosity and brand image on the behavioral intention with trust and satisfaction as mediating variables at the Larazeta halal restaurant. Design/Method/Approach - Data were collected through a questionnaire with a total sample of 100 customers of the Larazeta halal restaurant. The respondents were customers of the Larazeta halal restaurant who had visited the restaurant that has many branches in Indonesia at least once. The sampling technique used is convenience sampling. This study used a quantitative approach with the Structural Equation Modelling-Partial Least Squares Analysis. The exogenous variables in this study include religiosity and brand image, the mediating variables consisted of trust and satisfaction, while the endogenous variable was the behavioral intention. Results - The results indicate that the variables of religiosity and brand image had a significant effect on the behavioral intention, trust, and satisfaction variables of Larazeta halal restaurant customers. Practical Implications – This study provides an understanding of how religiosity, brand image, trust, and satisfaction can influence the behavioral intention of halal food consumers. Originality– There is a little research investigating the relationship between religiosity and marketing in Islam in Indonesia with unique demographic conditions. Research gaps are found in the previous studies, namely the broad scope of research so that they were not effective in explaining areas that have unique demographic characteristics. Therefore, for the first time, the present study aims to analyze specifically the relationship of religiosity and brand image on behavioral intention, with trust and satisfaction as mediating variables in discussing halal food as a healthy lifestyle in Indonesia. Keywords : Healthy Lifestyle, Religiosity, Brand Image, Trust, Satisfaction, Behavioral Intention, Halal Food
Sustainable Performance Measurement: An Application to the U.S. Car Industry
Authors: Shah Syed Faisal , Zervopoulos Panagiotis D. , Aboelmaged Mohamed
Published: August 2023

This study measures the sustainable performance of ten car manufacturers operating in the U.S. We took into account three dimensions of sustainability: (a) economic, (b) environmental, and (c) social. Our methodology drew on the generalized directional distance function data envelopment analysis in conjunction with the multi-parametric method for bias correction of efficiency estimators. The combination of the two methods reduced the bias of efficiency estimators, which was sourced from the dimensionality of the production set and the sample size. Our analysis revealed that Chrysler-Fiat, GM, and Ford have the worst sustainable performance among firms under review over the years 2014–2018.
Prediction of Concrete Modulus of Elasticity Using Deep Learning
Authors: Alotaibi Emran , Alhalabi Mohamad , Mostafa Omar , Barakat Samer
Published: August 2023

Modulus of Elasticity (Ec’) is a key parameter in structural engineering concrete designs. In concrete as a composite material, Ec’ is a function of compressive strength and the proportions of components in the concrete matrix (percentages of aggregates and cement). The inaccuracy and dispersity in estimating Ec’ from models provided by the existing codes of practice strongly affect the performance and design of the concrete structures. In this study, a dataset of 189 experimental concrete compressive strength results were collected from the available literature. The data set includes curing time (in days) for the concrete specimens, concrete density, experimental compressive strength (fc’), experimental Ec’ and several additives (e.g., slag, gypsum…etc.) with a total of 13 variables. Deep artificial neural networks (DANN) were used to model and analyze the effects of these variables on Ec’. A grid search over 2 hidden layers of DANNs was conducted to compute the best performed DANN. A total of 49 DANN models were developed in this study to predict concrete Ec’. The best performed DANN had a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.81 and was selected for further analysis. Importance scoring was performed on the best DANN and results revealed that compressive strength had the highest importance score followed by water/cement ratio (w/c). Interestingly, the specimen sizes and curing days had the 6th and 8th scoring respectively from the 13 investigated variables. Ground pumice had the highest scoring compared to other additives. Sensitivity analyses were conducted revealing that at low specimen sizes of 10 mm, the Ec’ may vary by ~50%, while at higher size (150 mm), the Ec’ had less scatter and more reliable values.
Termite as Biomimicry Solution for Enhancing Building Envelope: A Comparative Model Case Study in the UAE
Authors: AlShuhail Khalid , Aldawoud Abdelsalam , Junaidi Syarif
Published: August 2023

The building envelope is considered the boundary in which a building interacts with the surrounding environment. This paper aims to enhance building envelope design by biomimicry of the termite mound shape for reducing the energy demand as well as maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. In this paper, two models with the same internal dimensions, cross-sectional area, and block material were constructed. The first model is a regular block model (RB) that represents a typical house construction. The second model (TM) development including the form and the envelope design is inspired by the termite mounds. The building model used the same principles of ventilation and thermoregulation in the same way as termite responds to extremely hot and humid conditions. Infrared thermography (IR) was carried out to measure the thermal performance of building envelopes throughout a full year. The influence of the termite model on the thermal properties such as the Decrement Factor (DF), Temperature Difference Ratio (TDR), and Time lag (Tlg) was investigated. The results suggest that the termite model (TM) can accumulate time lag for up to three hours on average. Investigation results indicated that the termite model improved for thermal repletion, unlike the regular model. The termite model absorbed more heat while the regular block model (RB) was thermally reflective.
Modeling Lane-Choice Behavior and Public Willingness to Pay for HOT Lanes: A Neural Network Approach
Authors: Khalil Mahmoud , Shabib Ahmad , Feroz Sainab , Abuzwidah Muamer
Published: August 2023

This paper focuses on investigating public perception in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) towards the implementation of High-Occupancy Toll (HOT) lanes in major freeways. HOT lanes provide the UAE government with significant potential to enhance the transportation network through decline in motorway accidents, procuring additional revenues, decreasing the overall sector costs, as well as lessening the carbon footprint ensuing from this sector. However, the primary challenge encountered during the implementation of HOT lanes in the UAE is public perception and Willingness to Pay (WTP). A questionnaire-based survey was developed and circulated among the public in the UAE to deduce the public’s attitude towards the utilization of HOT lanes. The survey intended to capture the socio-economic, demographic, and commute-related characteristics of respondents, as well as their current knowledge of HOT lanes. The survey data were collected and processed to identify the features of the obtained sample. Comparative statistical and advanced numerical analyses, in the form of Linear Regression (LR) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) were conducted to model the relationships between different characteristics and the public’s WTP. Additionally, the significance of the factors affecting the WTP were ranked using Bayesian Networks. The results showed that monthly income was the most significant factor affecting public WTP followed by age, frequency of trips, employment status, peak hour traffic, and emirate of residence. Prediction equations generated from ANN and LR, utilizing the most significant factors, indicated that ANN had significantly higher accuracy and lower MSE compared to linear regression. Overall, this study could significantly help decision-makers for future transportation systems improvement.
Determinants of Willingness to Undergo Lung Cancer Screening among High-Risk Current and Ex-smokers in Sabah, Malaysia: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study
Authors: Nyanti Larry Ellee , Chua Chia Zhen , Loo Han Chuan , Khor Cheng Zhi , Toh Emilia Sheau Yuin , Gill Rasvinder Singh , Chan Eng Tat , Tan Ker Yin , Rosli Taufiq , Rahim Muhammad Aklil Abd , Ibrahim Arfian , Huan Nai Chien , Ramarmuty Hema Yamini Devi , Kannan Kunji Kannan Sivaraman
Published: August 2023

Background: Attitudes towards smoking, lung cancer screening, and perceived risk of lung cancer have not been widely studied in Malaysia. The primary objective of this study was to describe the factors affecting the willingness of high-risk current smokers and ex-smokers to undergo low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening for lung cancer.Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted in current smokers or ex-smokers aged between 55 and 80 years at three hospitals in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. The questionnaire recorded the following parameters: perceived lung cancer risk; Prostate Lung Colon Ovarian Cancer 2012 risk prediction model excluding race and ethnicity predictor (PLCOm2012norace); demographic characteristics; psychosocial characteristics; and attitudes towards lung cancer and lung cancer screening.Results: A vast majority of the 95 respondents (94.7%) indicated their willingness to undergo screening. Stigma of lung cancer, low levels of knowledge about lung cancer symptoms, concerns about financial constraints, and a preference for traditional medication were still prevalent among the respondents, and they may represent potential barriers to lung cancer screening uptake. A desire to have an early diagnosis (odds ratio [OR], 11.33; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.53 to 84.05; p=0.02), perceived time constraints (OR, 3.94; 95% CI, 1.32 to 11.73; p=0.01), and proximity of LDCT screening facilities (OR, 14.33; 95% CI, 1.84 to 111.4; p=0.01) had significantly higher odds of willingness to undergo screening.Conclusion: Although high-risk current smokers and ex-smokers are likely to undergo screening for lung cancer, several psychosocial barriers persist. The results of this study may guide the policymakers and clinicians regarding the need to improve lung cancer awareness in our population.
Factors contributing to changes in contraceptive use among adolescent girls in Zambia: a decomposition analysis
Authors: Chola Mumbi , Hlongwana Khumbulani , Ginindza Themba G.
Published: August 2023

Despite its documented benefits, contraceptive use among adolescents remains low, particularly in low-and middle-income countries. This study aimed to decompose the main factors contributing to the changes in contraceptive use among adolescent girls in Zambia over the period 1996 to 2014. Data on adolescent girls aged 15-19 years from Zambia Demographic and Health Survey data were analysed using multivariate decomposition analysis of change. Stata 15/MP (Stata-Corp LLC) was used for analysis, at a 95% confidence level. A p-value of 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance. The sample included 9,072 adolescent girls. Contraceptive use increased by 3% from 7.6% in 1996 to 10.6% in 2013/14. Change in modern contraceptive use among adolescents was mainly due to differences in coefficients (changes in population behaviour). Increases in age contributed to the change in contraceptive use, resulting in 2.94% and 9.33% increases for 17- and 18-year-olds respectively. Marriage or living with a partner contributed the largest change (44%) while living in a rural area accounted for approximately 20%. Interventions targeting improving contraceptive use in adolescents should be responsive to the needs of various age groups, places of residence, and educational levels for maximum benefits.
Human papillomavirus positivity and cervical lesions in relation to HIV infection: a comparative assessment in the Cameroonian female population
Authors: Sosso Samuel M. , Tchouaket Michel C.T. , Fokam Joseph , Simo Rachel K. , Semengue Ezechiel N.J. , Sando Zacharie , Torimiro Judith , Tiga Aline , Lobe Elise E. , Ambada Georgia , Nange Achille , Nka Alex D. , Chenwi Collins , Abba Aissatou , Ka’e Aude C. , Fainguem Nadine , Zam Marie K.N. , Yagai Bouba , Billong Serge C. , Colizzi Vittorio , Ndjolo Alexis
Published: August 2023

Cervical lesions, induced by high-risk oncogenic human papillomavirus (HR-HPV), in the context of HIV remains a global health challenge. We determined the effect of HR-HPV on the development of cervical lesions in women with and without HIV infection. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 257 women living in Cameroon. HIV serology, HR-HPV genotyping and cervico-vaginal smear (CVS) were performed for all participants; among those declared HIV positive, plasma HIV viral load and CD4 count were measured. Statistical analyses were performed using Graph Pad version 6.0; P0.05 was considered statistically significant. The mean age of the participants in our study was 37±6.5 years. According to HIV serology, 184 (71.59%) were HIV‑positive vs. 73 (28.40%) HIV‑negative. Among the HIV‑positive women, the median CD4 count was 438 [IQR: 317‑597] cells/mm3 and the median viremia was 40 [IQR:40‑2318] copies/ml. After successful genotyping, the prevalence of HR‑HPV was 36.32% (73/201), with a significantly higher proportion in HIV‑infected individuals (41.98% (55/131) vs. 25.71% (18/70); P=0.02; OR=2.1). The overall rate of cervical lesions was 23.34% (60/257), with a non‑significantly higher proportion in HIV‑infected participants (25.00%(46/184) vs. 19.17% (14/73); P=0.31). Relevantly, the presence of HR‑HPV was significantly associated with cervical lesions (P0.0001; OR=5.07), with a higher odds of cervical lesion in HIV‑positive individuals (P0.0001 and OR=5.67) compared to HIV‑negative individuals (P=0.03 and OR=3.83). Although oncogenic HPV appears to be an independent factor in the development of cervical lesions, this study reveals higher odds of cervical lesions among HIV/HPV co-infection than in HPV infection alone.
Prevalence and clinical profile of keratoconus in patients presenting at a provincial hospital in KwaZulu, Natal, South Africa: A case study
Authors: Gcabashe Nonkululeko M. , Moodley Vanessa R. , Hansraj Rekha
Published: August 2023

Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive, asymmetrical corneal disease, characterized by stromal thinning that leads to distortion, causing vision loss. The visual loss is secondary to corneal scarring, irregular astigmatism, and myopia. The prevalence of KC has been reported to differ in different parts of the world. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and profile of patients with KC presenting to a provincial hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. A retrospective study design was used to review 412 clinical records of patients attending the McCord Provincial Eye Hospital (MPEH) during a five‑year period (2016-2020). Data on age, race, refraction, clinical profile, treatment plan, and diagnosis were ascertained. The prevalence of KC in MPEH was found to be 13.7% with a mean age of 24.7±7.94 years. Black African and females had a higher frequency of KC compared to males and other ethnic groups. Most of the patients presented with a severe stage of KC and referral was the most common management. Central corneal thinning and Munson's sign were the most prevalent clinical signs. There was no statistically significant difference between the worse and better eye when comparing the clinical signs. The prevalence and clinical profile of patients with KC in this study was similar to that reported by previous studies and more in Blacks and females. Population based epidemiological studies are needed to determine the prevalence of KC in South Africa to enable early clinical interventions.
Relationship between disaster awareness and disaster preparedness: online survey of the community in Indonesia
Authors: Hargono Arief , Artanti Kurnia D. , Astutik Erni , Widodo Paulus P. , Trisnawati Arti N. , Kusuma Wardani Diaz , Lioni Evi
Published: August 2023

Indonesia is a country that is classified as prone to disasters because of its territory that has a lot of tectonic activity and is located between the ring of fire. Given the urgency of improving people's preparedness for disasters, studies are needed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors associated with disasters. One of which is disaster preparedness, that is influenced by public awareness of disasters. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between current awareness level of the community towards disaster and Community preparedness for disaster preparedness efforts in Indonesia. The design of this study was cross‑sectional. Data were collected by a self‑administered online survey. The study respondents were community that are accessible and were willing to fill out questionnaires voluntarily. The research was conducted in March‑October 2021 with the nation as the research location. The size of the sample was 400 respondents obtained from the calculation of estimation in finite population. Respondents with lower current awareness level of the community towards disaster had higher risk 1.49 times to have lower community preparedness for disaster preparedness efforts compared to respondents with higher community preparedness for disaster preparedness efforts (PR=1.49, 95%CI=1.25‑1.76, P0.001). Increasing public awareness about disaster preparedness is very important. The government can work with non‑governmental organizations and community leaders to provide understanding and training to the community to deal with disasters.
Examining the Association between Cigarette Smoking Quantity and Subjective Salt Taste Preference and Salt-Related Eating Behavior
Authors: Ma Jian , Lee Yeon-Kyung
Published: August 2023

Background: Smoking can reduce taste sensitivity, the ability to sense various tastes, and diet quality and can increase the incidence of diseases such as hypertension. This study aimed to analyze the association between the smoking amount, subjective salt preference, and salt-related eating behaviors.Methods: Data of more than 16 million individuals from the Korean Community Health Survey were used. Forest plots were drawn to compare the cumulative odds ratios of salt taste preference and salt-related eating behaviors, adjusted for sex, age, body mass index, education level, household income, marital status, and drinking status at various smoking levels.Results: Subjective salt preference and salt-related eating behaviors increased with smoking amount; the adjusted odds ratios (AORs) for smoking >20 cigarettes were higher than those for smoking <20 cigarettes. For daily smokers, the AOR was 1.27 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.22–1.31) for 1–5 cigarettes per day and 1.68 (95% CI, 1.65–1.71) for 16–20 cigarettes per day (P<0.001). Smokers were more likely to have more frequent salt-related eating behaviors than nonsmokers.Conclusion: The subjective salt preference of smokers was higher than that of nonsmokers. Additionally, smokers used salt or soy sauce and dipped fried food in soy sauce more frequently than nonsmokers, which was also related to smoking amount.
Current Clinical Concepts: Integration of Psychologically Informed Practice for Management of Patients With Sport-Related Injuries
Authors: Baez Shelby , Jochimsen Kate
Published: August 2023

Psychologically informed practice is an approach to patient management that encourages clinicians to treat patients from a biopsychosocial perspective and can be adopted by athletic trainers to manage sport-related injuries. As described in the domains of athletic training clinical practice, athletic trainers are expected to identify, address, and make appropriate referrals regarding psychosocial responses to injuries and mental health symptoms. Psychologically informed practice suggests addressing physical impairments in addition to screening and intervening for psychosocial responses with patients. In this Current Clinical Concepts paper, we discuss appropriate patient-reported outcome measures used to screen for mental health symptoms and psychosocial responses, provide recommendations on psychological interventions that can be integrated to enhance patient outcomes, and describe how to effectively refer a patient to an appropriate mental health professional.
Analysis of Genome Wide Associated Variants rs2651899 (PRDM16), rs11172113 (LRP1), and rs10166942 (TRPM8) of Migraine in the Indian Episodic Migraineurs
Authors: Manickam Agaath Hedina , Ramasamy Sivasamy
Published: August 2023

Background:

The involvement of genes in migraine pain is identified by several studies. Many genome-wide association studies (GWAS) revealed the presence of particular variants in different migraine populations worldwide.

Objective:

This study aims in analyzing the presence of 3 GWAS variants (rs2651899 [PRDM16], rs11172113 [LRP1], and rs10166942 Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel Subfamily M Member 8 [TRPM8]) in the Indian episodic migraineurs.

Methodology:

Enrolled 200 age- and gender-matched patients and control volunteers; collected blood samples to isolate DNA to check the presence of chosen variants in them. The results obtained were statistically analyzed using SPSS version 26.0.

Results:

The rs10166942 (TRPM8) variant is observed in 1.5% of control, 15.88% of migraine with aura, and 5.37% of migraine without aura subjects with the highly significant P < 0.0008. The other two variants are absent in the chosen sample group.

Conclusion:

We reported the presence of rs10166942 in the Indian episodic migraineurs and we recommend pathway analysis for confirming its association with the migraine pain progression.
Amelioration of Pathological Tooth Migration by Surgical Periodontal Therapy Alone: A Stupendous Clinical Case Report with Two Year Follow up
Authors: Mukherji Arnav , Mukherji Sinthiya Bose
Published: August 2023

Moderate-to-severe form of periodontitis is often accompanied by pathological tooth migration. This is characterized by spacing and proclination of teeth. Patients often feel awkward regarding their facial esthetics and seek treatment for the same. Pathological tooth migration is a complex puzzle with various etiological factors to its credit. Treatment often involves time-consuming interdisciplinary approach. Very few case reports have achieved complete resolution of pathological tooth migration by periodontal therapy alone. In this unique case report, periodontal therapy alone could ameliorate pathological tooth migration. Further to it, results are stable for 2 years and continue to be so. Hence, meticulous periodontal therapy is effective in the management of pathologic tooth migration.
A Case Report of Anesthetic Management of a Patient with Hallervorden–Spatz Disease Posted for Incision and Drainage of Rectus Sheath Hematoma
Authors: Ghate Tilka Vivek , Bhargava Sumita Vivek , Deshmukh Gaurav Atul , Bhure Anjali R.
Published: August 2023

Pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration (PKAN), also known as Hallervorden–Spatz disease, is a neurodegenerative disorder presenting with dystonia, cognitive impairment, rigidity, and mental deterioration. It has an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance, which usually presents in late childhood or early adolescence. Rigidity poses a challenge to an anesthesiologist in airway management. In this case report, we present the case of a 23-year-old male patient, a diagnosed case of Hallervorden–Spatz disease scheduled for incision and drainage of rectus sheath hematoma which occurred due to blunt trauma to the abdomen. Patients with PKAN who require general anesthesia may present with symptoms that influence perioperative anesthetic management as well as postoperative care.
Multidetector Computed Tomographic Evaluation of Hydrocephalus
Authors: Dhande Rajasbala Pradeep , Pandey Shivesh , Mishra Gaurav Vedprakash
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Hydrocephalus is characterized by imbalance of cerebrospinal fluid formation and absorption. It is manifested as a dilatation of the ventricular system. Computed tomography (CT) is useful in determining the ventricular size and shape as well as the amount of the cerebral cortex present in the evaluation of suspected hydrocephalus.

Aim and Objectives:

Detection of hydrocephalus and determining the cause of hydrocephalus. Differentiating communicating from noncommunicating (obstructive) hydrocephalus. to assess the severity of the hydrocephalus and seek for any consequences.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective study included 50 patients referred to the Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital, Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha, for 1 year. Patients clinically diagnosed with hydrocephalus were included in the study. Multidetector CT (MDCT) imaging was performed on Siemens 16 Slice MDCT machine. Multiplanar reformation and three-dimensional reconstruction were done wherever necessary.

Results:

20% were diagnosed to have meningitis, 10% had Intraparenchymal haemorrhage and Intraventricular extension, 12% had aqueduct stenosis, and 12% had communicating hydrocephalus. In the study, 40% of them had communicating-type hydrocephalus or extraventricular obstructive hydrocephalus and 60% had obstructive hydrocephalus. On the CT scan, it was observed that at the lateral ventricle, dilatation was observed in four regions. Frontal horn dilatation (98%), body dilatation (98%), and 100% dilatation were seen at the temporal horn and occipital horn. Among 100 patients, 14% had cortical thinning and thus were classified as severe hydrocephalus with a poor prognosis, and 20% had periventricular edema.

Conclusion:

CT is the best means of obtaining images as it is easily available, fast, reliable, and compatible with standard life support devices.
Correlation between Cervical Spine Posture and Hand Grip Strength in Healthy Collegiate Population
Authors: Chauhan Rashmi , Gujral Tanya
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Natural lordotic curves in the cervical spine, which gradually curve back into the apex of the chest and upper back at the base of the skull, are indicative of a healthy cervical spine. Hand grip strength can be determined by determining the amount of maximum force that the hand can squeeze against a dynamometer. Grip strength determines how tightly and securely one can grasp objects. Therefore, this study looked at the relationship between hand grip strength and cervical spine position in a healthy collegiate population.

Objective:

To study the correlation between cervical spine posture and hand grip strength in healthy collegiate population.

Methodology:

Total 100 male and female subjects. The subjects for the study were included based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. After explaining the benefits, objectives, and purpose of the study in detail, they were asked to complete the screening form and consent form to conduct the study on the impact of cervical spine position on hand grip strength in a healthy collegiate population.

Results:

Maximum voluntary contraction stands for Maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) T1, T2, and T3 are highly correlated. There is a weak correlation of MVC with the degree of angle of craniovertebral angle (CVA).

Conclusion:

This study concluded a positive and statistically significant link between body mass index and MVC and CVA, but not between MCV and CVA.
Early Verse Conventional Ambulation on Postoperative Pain among Women with Lower Segment Cesarean Section
Authors: Negi Versha , Mohanta Bijaya , Pareek Shatrughan
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

A cesarean section is a surgical procedure by which one or more babies are delivered through an incision made on a mother’s abdomen and uterus. In post cesarean section phase, early ambulation and oral intake are need to be encouraged after declined effects of anesthesia. The present study was conducted with aim to assess the effectiveness of early ambulation on postoperative pain among the women with a lower segment cesarean section.

Materials and Methods:

The study design was quasi-experimental design and 60 subjects were enrolled by convenient sampling technique. In experimental group, the pain level was assessed after performing breathing exercise, moving legs and hands, upright sitting position, stand and walk with and without support after 10 h of surgery for first 3 postoperative days. While in control group, the mothers were ambulated after 24 h of surgery as per the hospital protocol.

Results:

There was a significant difference (P < 0.001) between the mean postoperative pain scores after early ambulation among experimental on day 1st, day 2nd, and day 3rd. There was a significant decline in pain scores in experimental group compared to control group (P < 0.001) with days progresses.

Conclusion:

The early ambulation was significantly effective in reduce postoperative pain scores among the mothers after cesarean section. The present approach may be adopted for the mothers to decline the need of analgesics during postoperative period.
Transiting Milestones in Conventional Composites: A Headway for Flowables
Authors: Nadgouda Mrinal , Patel Aditya , Nikhade Pradnya , Chandak Manoj , Patel Shraddha
Published: August 2023

Flowable composite materials still need to be explored. Most literature generally addresses conventional composites, with little emphasis on flowables. This review article provides a concise overview of many essential characteristics of this helpful material. Newer generations of flowable composites incorporating improved mechanical properties such as higher compressive strength due to increased filler loading have come into practice in restorative dentistry recently. These provide benefits of improved handling properties and ease of placement into prepared cavities. This makes them unique and a novel material of choice in replacing traditional composite resins as a restorative material in endodontics.
A Five Year Retrospective Study of Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders (Opmds) and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) and their Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Anwar Sana , Tyagi Nutan , Mathias Yulia L. , Javed Danish
Published: August 2023

Background:

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is generally converted from precancerous conditions. The conversion rates are mainly linked to various addiction habits and sometimes to sociodemographic profile of patients. The clinical spectrum of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) varies between geographical districts or from place to place within the same country. The prevalence of this particular malignancy may be reduced by prompt diagnostic and therapeutic action.

Aims and Objectives:

We focused on the data associated with histo-pathological types of lesion in relation to certain sociodemographic profile and addiction habits in the targeted population.

Materials and Methods:

We performed 5 years retrospective cross-sectional study from January 2013 to December 2017 in the oral pathology department in systematic manner. Data were collected and compiled in Microsoft Excel and were analyzed through SPSS software. Chi-square, Student’s t-test, and Pearson’s correlation tests were used to determine the significance of study parameters between groups.

Results:

Our study suggests a more common relationship of lichen planus with gutkha, pan, and mixed habit; leukoplakia with bidi smoking and mixed habit; verrucous leukoplakia with bidi and cigarette smoking and gutkha chewing; oral submucous fibrosis with pan and gutkha; mild and moderate dysplasia with bidi and alcohol consumption; well-differentiated OSCC and moderately differentiated OSCC with tobacco intake and/or alcohol and poorly differentiated OSCC with alcohol, pan, and bidi.

Conclusion:

OPMDs and OSCC are more associated with various addiction habits. Cessation of these habits along with early intervention may reduce the burden of disease.
Echocardiographic Evaluation of Cardiac Function in Infants of Mothers with Diabetes
Authors: Fatima Maryam , Abqari Shaad , Ali Syed Manazir , Hakim Seema
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

A large number of pregnancies are complicated by diabetes mellitus in the mother which is associated with the risk of various cardiac structural and functional complications in the neonates. A diagnostic tool is needed to detect these dysfunctions early. In contrast to conventional pulsed-wave Doppler, which is influenced by heart rate and the impact of volume changes on transmitral flow, tissue Doppler imaging is the mode of echocardiography that is relatively independent of the loading state. Two-dimensional (2D) speckle-tracking echocardiography-derived strain imaging is a new technology increasingly being used to estimate cardiac systolic and diastolic dysfunction and has superior prognostic value for predicting major adverse cardiac events.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate cardiac function in neonates of mothers with diabetes on echocardiography and differences in the extent of cardiac dysfunction between neonates of well-controlled and poorly controlled mothers with diabetes.

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional observational study which was done on 152 neonates born to mothers with diabetes (22 overt vs. 130 gestational and 23 well-controlled vs. 129 poorly controlled) and 96 born to nondiabetic mothers. Three modes of echocardiography, i.e. M-mode, Doppler (pulsed wave and tissue), and 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography, were done and cardiac functions were compared among different groups.

Results:

Infants of diabetic mothers (IDMs) had lower ejection fraction on M-mode echocardiography and lower values of global longitudinal strain on 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography along with significantly lower values of mitral and tricuspid E velocity and E/A ratio with higher values of A velocity on pulsed-wave Doppler. Tissue Doppler showed higher left ventricle E/E’ in IDM implying more systolic as well as diastolic dysfunction in IDM as compared to non-IDM. In neonates born to mothers with poorly controlled diabetes, Doppler showed lower values of mitral and tricuspid E/A ratio and left ventricle E’/A’ ratio signifying more diastolic dysfunction as compared to neonates born to mothers having good glycemic control. Similarly, neonates born to mothers with pregestational diabetes had significantly deranged systolic and diastolic functions.

Conclusions:

IDMs have significant cardiac dysfunction on echocardiography which is also related to the degree of glycemic control and onset of diabetes.
Echocardiographic Assessment of Left Ventricular Myocardial Work
Authors: Karande Atul
Published: August 2023

Prognosis in cardiac disorders is determined by left ventricular (LV) function and hence, its precise estimation is of utmost importance. Myocardial work is a new advanced technique based on computation by incorporating systolic blood pressure into strain analysis. The aim of this review article is to provide an overview and additive value of this technique for the assessment of LV systolic function. The article includes the evolution of this technique from invasive to noninvasive mode, the method of acquiring and measuring it, normal reference values, its role in various cardiac conditions as described in the current literature, and potential limitations.
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy for Uterine Cervical Cancer to Reduce Toxicity and Enhance Efficacy – an Option or a Must?: A Narrative Review
Authors: Lee Sea-Won , Kim Aeran , Lee Sung Jong , Kim Sung Hwan , Lee Jong Hoon
Published: August 2023

Radiotherapy (RT) is a fundamental modality in treatment of cervical cancer. With advancement of technology, conventional RT used for external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for over half a century has been rapidly replaced with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) especially during the last decade. This newer technique is able to differentiate the intensity of radiation within the same field, thus reduces the inevitable exposure of radiation to normal organs and enables better dose delivery to tumors. Recently, the American Society for Radiation Oncology has released a guideline for RT in cervical cancer. Although a section of the guideline recommends IMRT for the purpose of toxicity reduction, a thorough review of the literature is necessary to understand the current status of IMRT in cervical cancer. This narrative review updates the recent high-level evidences regarding the efficacy and toxicity of IMRT and provides a better understanding of the most innovative techniques currently available for EBRT enabled by IMRT.
Nasal cast deposition for xylo- and oxymetazoline formulations using two different nasal pumps
Authors: Hagen M , Shanga G , Caron S , Debnath G
Published: August 2023

Background: Allergic rhinitis, rhinosinusitis, and upper respiratory tract infections, including the common cold, are caused by inflammation of nasal cavity areas. A key symptom is nasal congestion, which can be relieved with nasal spray medications. A key goal in developing a nasal spray medication delivery device for the relief of nasal congestion is delivering a fine mist to the inflamed areas while providing user comfort and convenience. Methodology: Using a Koken nasal cast model, we studied the deposition patterns of 2 xylometazoline and 1 oxymetazoline for- mulations with 2 different nasal pumps, the currently marketed Freepod and the investigational laterally actuated device. Effects of nasal tip orientation and breathing were investigated. Additionally, the degree of xylometazoline and oxymetazoline dripping down the back of the cast was assessed. Results: The largest coverage overall was observed with the xylometazoline formulation with the laterally actuated pump and without breath simulation. The laterally actuated pump used at a 30° angle resulted in deposition to the inferior, middle, and superior turbinates of the nasal cast, with less variability than the Freepod. Drippage at the back of the cast was observed with the Freepod device but not with the laterally actuated device. Conclusions: Using a nasal cast model, the laterally actuated pump used at a 30° angle produced a full mist covering areas inflamed with the common cold, allergic rhinitis, and rhinosinusitis with no dripping at the back of the cast, an improvement compared with the Freepod pump. In vivo studies are needed to confirm nasal cast results.
On diameter $5$ trees with the maximum number of matchings
Authors: Kuz'min Nikita Aleksandrovich , Malyshev Dmitriy Sergeevich
Published: August 2023

A matching in a graph is any set of edges of this graph without common vertices. The number of matchings, also known as the Hosoya index of the graph, is an important parameter, which finds wide applications in mathematical chemistry. Previously, the problem of maximizing the Hosoya index in trees of radius $2$ (that is, diameter $4$) of fixed size was completely solved. This work considers the problem of maximizing the Hosoya index in trees of diameter $5$ on a fixed number $n$ of vertices and solves it completely. It turns out that for any $n$ the extremal tree is unique.
Bibliography: 6 titles.
Cousin complex on the complement to the strict normal-crossing divisor in a local essentially smooth scheme over a field
Authors: Druzhinin Andrei Eduardovich
Published: August 2023

For any $\mathbb{A}^1$-invariant cohomology theory that satisfies Nisnevich excision on the category of smooth schemes over a field $k$ it is proved that the Cousin complex on the complement $U-D$ to the strict normal-crossing divisor $D$ in a local essentially smooth scheme $U$ is acyclic. This claim is also proved for the schemes $(X-D)\times(\mathbb{A}^1_k-Z_0)\times…\times(\mathbb{A}^1_k-Z_l)$, where $Z_0,…,Z_l$ is a finite family of closed subschemes in the affine line over $k$.
Bibliography: 32 titles.
Classification of Liouville foliations of integrable topological billiards in magnetic fields
Authors: Vedyushkina Viktoriya Viktorovna , Pustovoitov Sergey Evgen'evich
Published: August 2023

The topology of the Liouville foliations of integrable magnetic topological billiards, systems in which a ball moves on piecewise smooth two-dimensional surfaces in a constant magnetic field, is considered. The Fomenko-Zieschang invariants of Liouville equivalence are calculated for the Hamiltonian systems arising, and the topology of invariant 3-manifolds, isointegral and isoenergy ones, is investigated. The Liouville equivalence of such billiards to some known Hamiltonian systems is discovered, for instance, to the geodesic flows on 2-surfaces and to systems of rigid body dynamics. In particular, peculiar saddle singularities are discovered in which singular circles have different orientations - such systems were also previously encountered in mechanical systems in a magnetic field on surfaces of revolution homeomorphic to a 2-sphere.
Bibliography: 13 titles.