bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contact Tracing Apps in the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Baxevanou Natalia , Sotirhou Sotiria Triantafyllia , Limniotis Konstantinos
Published: February 2022

Contact tracing apps for the COVID-19 pandemic, from a personal data protection point of view, are discussed in this chapter. More precisely, having the relevant European legal framework as a basis, the authors investigate the underlying personal data processing that occurs from these apps in relation with the relevant privacy risks that are inherent in the smart mobile ecosystem. The analysis indicates that there exist several different approaches across the world, whereas even in countries with unified legal framework there exist some discrepancies in the design philosophy and the operation of these apps. Since user trust is essential for the effectiveness of such types of apps, they discuss the importance of respecting the fundamental right of privacy when developing and operating such applications. The ultimate goal is to illustrate the need to strike the proper balance between substantial public interests and the right to the protection of personal data.
Analysis on Cryptographic Design Techniques of Stream Ciphers and Attacks
Authors: G. Megala , S. Prabu , P. Swarnalatha , R. Venkatesan
Published: February 2022

Blockchain plays a vital role in enabling users to securely communicate with reliability and transparency. Cryptographic hashing is the underlying structure of blockchain empowering cryptocurrencies. With the rapid advancement of communication network, cipher algorithms are becoming increasingly important in information security. Multimedia data are widely used in various applications, including health sectors, military, entertainment, education, banking, and communication with recent improvements in internet technologies. Meanwhile, the application background for cipher algorithms is becoming gradually more complicated, posing problems to existing systems and necessitating the development of new appropriate designs. Stream cipher has been a prominent research area in cryptography, and it is appropriate for use in circumstances of huge data transmission or resource limits. This work provides a quick overview of conventional encryption algorithms based on stream ciphers and cryptographic prerequisites. At present, several attacks faced by stream cipher techniques are also discussed.
Embedding Authentic and Effective Awareness About Mental Health in Pre-Service Teacher Training
Authors: Fovet Frederic
Published: February 2022

The chapter examines the urgent need for pre-service teacher training programs to integrate content on mental health. In the current neo-liberal context, there is increasing pressure on universities to streamline and shorten these programs, when in fact there might be a need to add content to their existing structure. Developing pre-service teachers' awareness around student mental health is a pressing need but one campuses are usually reluctant to address when it may represent a widening of their scope. The chapter analyzes phenomenological data collected by the author around his lived experience of delivering a course on mental health within a Canadian pre-service teacher training program. It examines the complex, rich, and diverse outcomes that are achieved (1) on teacher candidates' approaches to inclusion, (2) on their ability to navigate their own mental health issues, and (3) more widely on their willingness to embrace social model approaches to disability. The chapter examines the repercussions of this reflection on the transformation of pre-service teacher programs.
Nutrition in Learning Environments During and After the Pandemic
Authors: Sabbağ Çiğdem
Published: February 2022

Nutrition has an essential impact on life culture. As a result, the most effective way for societies to be healthy and productive is to provide healthy nutrition practices for children at home and in educational settings. One of the topics stressed in the combat against COVID-19 is the use of healthy foods and beverages that improve the immune system in all age groups, including youngsters, because nutrition helps to improve their immune systems, which are not as strong as the adults. Due to restrictions placed on the spread of the pandemic, as well as the inability of school-aged children to benefit from nutrition programs due to the closure of educational institutions, children's food choices have weakened. Children's nutrition should be made healthy not just in educational surroundings but also in the communities where they reside, for example through street children's soup kitchens, to repair the unhealthy pandemic process. However, one of the most difficult subjects for dietitians is improving the diversity of food consumption among the new generation.
Integration of Digital Games Into Pedagogical Practice
Authors: Ramos Daniela Karine , Brito Cláudia Regina , Pimentel Fernando Silvio Cavalcante , Anastácio Bruna Santana , Silva Gleice Assunção da
Published: February 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic made more evident the role digital technologies can play in education and their relationships with teacher training, the flexibility of pedagogical processes, and the diversification of strategies and resources. This chapter analyses how digital games have been incorporated into pedagogical practices to reflect on the educational challenges and transformations and their consequences for teacher education. Considering the context of the pandemic and the use of digital games as alternatives to pedagogical practices during remote learning, a scoping literature review was conducted on the Web of Science. Initial searches revealed 68 works developed at different levels of education addressing a diversity of content. The game's motivating potential, the more active postures experienced by the students, and the contributions to learning are highlighted. There is evidence that the games were integrated into the curriculum, composing actions that involved other combined resources and pedagogical strategies.
Perspectives and Difficulties of Emerging Pedagogies in Tunisia During the Pandemic
Authors: Essefi Elhoucine , Hajji Soumaya
Published: February 2022

Before the pandemic, digitalization has worldwide intentionally started to meet economic and social needs. Nonetheless, pandemic conditions made this transition towards digitalization mandatory. In education, it is expressed by emerging pedagogies dealing on remote online teaching. The use of emerging pedagogies has failed to reach pedagogical efficiency. This failure is related to causes related to teachers as well as their students. In the near and even the far future, pandemic conditions will shape the pedagogy by imposing remote online teaching. In Tunisia, in spite of the increasing digitalization of the Tunisian society, digitalization in education remains timid. But in the face of the emerging pandemic conditions, there is no choice but remote online teaching. Accordingly, to face emerging pandemic conditions, further studies would be relevant to promote digitalization.
Creative Framework Methodologies
Authors: Carolei Paula
Published: February 2022

A principle that enables creative practice is the action of designing, which goes beyond planning, since the artifacts and processes that support projects usually help to make it concrete and tangible. This framework was written and validated by peers and published in its first version. According to recommendations, the framework was improved theoretically and turned into a gamified interaction, in which people can explore the various tracks with examples and answer reflective questions about their practice. This chapter describes the application, improvement, and refining of the creative methodologies framework with the intention of supporting reflection and transforming teaching practice, making teachers more creative and improve teacher authorship. This chapter presents a second iteration of the artifact, in which it was deepened in terms of theoretical reflection and used in a teacher training course in which teachers should explore the artifact and propose a pedagogical action plan with the support of this framework.
Educational WebTV With YouTube
Authors: Matta Alfredo Eurico Rodrigues , Gonçalves Taiara G. , da Silva Francisca de Paula Santos
Published: February 2022

This chapter presents the result of applied research on developing effective educational television projects carried out on channels based on YouTube. The study aims to present the creation of a WebTV focusing on adult education and took place in the context of the adult education of the Centro de Educação Monteiro Lobato, involving young students (up to 30 years old and beyond the equivalent school age) in their teaching modality (EJA) in Feira de Santana. Following a qualitative approach, the research steps followed the principle of research group and instructional design from the interventional perspective from the interaction with the context in which the demand originates as well as in the construction of TV. At the end of the course, applied scientific knowledge on the construction of educational WebTV was developed, more specifically for the production of web-television knowledge for adult education.
Response to Education Setback in Kenya Through Indigenous African Teaching Approaches and Resources
Authors: Kisirkoi Florence , Cude Michelle D.
Published: February 2022

This study traces the methods of indigenous pedagogy alongside the development of formal education in Kenya. By showing indigenous education was successfully training generations of youth to assume their roles in society through active, participatory methods, the authors establish that the 21st century learner-centred teaching approaches are not a new concept introduced by Western pedagogues. Instead, they have roots in indigenous practices which were squeezed out by Western colonialism. To give context for understanding the current problems in Kenyan education, this chapter surveys the literature of Kenyan educational development. Then, the authors present a qualitative research study of the effectiveness of an in-service professional development model focusing on teachers in three counties in Kenya. This study established that open educational resources could be used in quality professional development to support teachers to adopt learner-centred pedagogy that reflects the indigenous African learning practices and addresses the dynamic 21st century learning needs.
Active Learning Strategies for Teaching Adult Learners
Authors: Crowder Cindy L. , Clark Amber D.
Published: February 2022

Over the past 25 years, there has been a dramatic increase of non-traditional adult learners in colleges/universities. These adult learners have unique needs in the classroom, and teachers must utilize a variety of teaching methods to ensure their learning experience is positive. This chapter identifies who adult learners are and how they learn differently from traditional students using the theoretical foundation of androgogy, the study of how adults learn. Then the researchers define active learning and describe how to design practices/teaching methods that will encourage and influence an entire range of institutions in their attempts in developing ways of meeting the educational needs of adult learners. Finally, examples of teaching tools and methods are presented.
Developing Literacy Knowledge Through Active Learning in an Online Graduate-Level Course
Authors: Zygouris-Coe Vassiliki
Published: February 2022

The purposes of this qualitative exploratory case study were to (1) explore how active learning was conceptualized and enacted in an online graduate-level literacy course, (2) explore how the active learning strategy facilitated the development of student knowledge in the online graduate-level literacy course, and (3) discuss lessons learned and implications of active learning strategy implementation in online teacher education in literacy, student learning, and research. Results inform course design elements, instructional practices, benefits and challenges associated with active learning in this online course, and implications for further development and evaluation of active learning in teacher preparation programs. The author also provides recommendations from lessons learned for promoting active learning in online teacher education courses.
Promoting Student Self-Regulation and Motivation Through Active Learning
Authors: Attié Elodie , Guibert Jérôme , Polle Clémence
Published: February 2022

In the current context of social distancing due to the pandemic of COVID-19, teachers are willing to find how to animate their classes without being physically present. Active learning can guide cognitive, motivational, and emotional learning processes while giving learners control over their learning. Research has shown that active learning offers better outcomes than passive learning. Indeed, this learning technique can enhance motivation, self-regulation, as well as soft skills. However, there is a need to support students' self-regulation during active learning. Therefore, teachers can use techniques from technology-enhanced learning tools and online tools to design an active learning class. This chapter aims to study how digital learning tools can promote active e-learning and foster students' self-regulation and motivation. Further research directions are given, regarding neurolearning, the role of the body during a learning process, and neuroadaptive personalized learning environments.
Electrochemical Micromachining Performance Optimization
Authors: Vempannan C.  , Kanish T. C.  , Thirumanikandan D.  , Aswin B.
Published: February 2022

Micromachined components are finding application in a variety of fields such as medical, semiconductor, and aerospace. Electrochemical micromachining (ECMM) is a technology used to realize the micro components with enhanced features and functionality. This chapter reviews the impact of cathode profile on the machining rate and accuracy. An indigenous developed ECMM setup is used with special attachment of rotating electrode. The control parameters such as machining voltage, duty cycle, electrolyte temperature, and rotating RPM were considered on improving the output performance. The interaction between the input parameters and machining speed and overcut was studied. The input parameters considered are machining voltage, duty cycle, electrolyte concentration, and cathode tool rotation. There are various optimization processes considered to evaluate the working range of control factors for the machine on output performance. In this chapter, various multi-objective optimization techniques applied in optimization of ECMM process were reviewed.
TFAM-Dependent Mitochondrial Metabolism Is Required for Alveolar Macrophage Maintenance and Homeostasis
Authors: Gao Xiaochen , Zhu Bibo , Wu Yue , Li Chaofan , Zhou Xian , Tang Jinyi , Sun Jie
Published: February 2022

Alveolar macrophages (AMs) are major lung tissue-resident macrophages capable of proliferating and self-renewal in situ. AMs are vital in pulmonary antimicrobial immunity and surfactant clearance. The mechanisms regulating AM compartment formation and maintenance remain to be fully elucidated currently. In this study, we have explored the roles of mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM)–mediated mitochondrial fitness and metabolism in regulating AM formation and function. We found that TFAM deficiency in mice resulted in significantly reduced AM numbers and impaired AM maturation in vivo. TFAM deficiency was not required for the generation of AM precursors nor the differentiation of AM precursors into AMs, but was critical for the maintenance of AM compartment. Mechanistically, TFAM deficiency diminished gene programs associated with AM proliferation and self-renewal and promoted the expression of inflammatory genes in AMs. We further showed that TFAM-mediated AM compartment impairment resulted in defective clearance of cellular debris and surfactant in the lung and increased the host susceptibility to severe influenza virus infection. Finally, we found that influenza virus infection in AMs led to impaired TFAM expression and diminished mitochondrial fitness and metabolism. Thus, our data have established the critical function of TFAM-mediated mitochondrial metabolism in AM maintenance and function.
Il bambino morente: verità, autonomia e interessi in conflitto. Linee per una discussione.
Authors: Sala Roberta
Published: February 2022

Partendo dalla rimozione della morte che la società odierna opera e dalla difficoltà di parlare della morte ai bambini, l'Autore del presente studio illustra anzitutto la capacità di comprensione della morte che ha il bambino, facoltà per certi versi più sviluppata dell'adulto proprio per le peculiari caratteristiche psicologiche del bambino stesso. Il lavoro prende in esame il caso del bambino inguaribile, situazione nella quale la concezione meccanicistica e biologista della medicina si rivela insufficiente a gestire il fatto umano, mentre l'ascolto dell'altro, la cura (concetto diverso dalla guarigione), la relazione tra medico e paziente in un "affidarsi" reciproco, si rivelano decisive. Su queste basi la comunicazione della verità al bambino gravemente ammalato ha senso solo se basata sul rispetto del bambino come persona.
Difficulties in teaching Grade 3 learners with reading problems in full-service schools in South Africa
Authors: Phala Thembi A. , Hugo Anna
Published: February 2022

Background: Many primary school learners in South Africa, including those in so-called full-service schools (FSSs), are reading below their grade level.Objectives: The authors of this article embarked on a study to find out what difficulties a group of Grade 3 teachers in full-service school faced to support their young custodians with reading problems.Methods: The research followed a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews and classroom observation.Results: The data showed that the reading problems experienced by some Grade 3 learners can be attributed to the multiple levels of the education system. On the macro system as set out by Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory where the government and provincial departments operate, the first issue was the national department’s progression policy which allows Grade 2 learners to progress to Grade 3 without the required reading competency. The second issue was a lack of enough readers and overcrowding in classrooms. Problems on the microsystem included aspects such as the language of learning and teaching; learners’ reading skills and attitudes towards reading; teachers’ lack of knowledge about diverse learning needs and parental support.Conclusion: It is envisaged that the study will contribute to an understanding of the teachers’ difficulties in teaching reading so that the Grade 3 learners’ reading problems especially those in FSSs could be dealt with through combined efforts of all the stakeholders in the education system.
Turbulences associated with the implementation of turnaround strategies at Kenya Airways
Authors: Nyatsumba Kaizer , Pooe David
Published: February 2022

Background: At its formation, Kenya Airways (KQ) was poorly capitalised and its management team highly inexperienced. The airline’s financial and related performance deteriorated from the early years, thus affecting the airline’s financial health and its reputation negatively. In an effort to correct matters, KQ went through four turnaround situations over the years.Aim: This article explores experiences and challenges associated with the KQ implementation of its turnaround strategies.Setting: The study is based on KQ, which has seen one turnaround between 2004 and 2016.Method: The article adopted a qualitative research approach using a case study research design. Eleven participants were purposively selected for the interviews. Documents were also used as sources of data. Thematic data analysis was used as a form of content analysis.Results: Seven themes emerged from the primary data analysis. These include: employee involvement, exogenous factors, high operational and debt servicing costs, management-union conflict, debt restructuring, nationalisation and leadership.Conclusion: The study concludes that the kind of leadership required during turnaround situations differs from when the company is on autopilot. During turnaround times, the chief executive officer (CEO) needs to exercise the authority recommended in the literature and that the shareholder and the board needs to give them the necessary space to exercise such authority.
Facilitators of professional socialisation of learners in the clinical learning areas: A qualitative systematic review
Authors: Mafumo Julia L. , Tshililo Azwidihwi R. , Luhalima Takalani R.
Published: February 2022

Background: Professional socialisation is significant in nursing as it involves immersing learners in the profession so that they adopt the ethical values and conduct of the profession. It is in the clinical learning areas where learners observe and practise those values. The objective of the review was to explore the factors that promote professional socialisation of learners in the clinical learning areas. The problem is the inadequate support for learner nurses in the clinical learning areas. The South African community has lost trust in nurses and that was even acknowledged in the national nursing summit in 2011.Objectives: To present a review of the factors that facilitate professional socialisation among undergraduate nursing learners.Method: A systematic review was conducted on literature from 2008 to 2018. The literature search focused on factors that facilitate professional socialisation of learner nurses. A search of databases was conducted in CINAHL, MEDLINE, Google Scholar and Science Direct. The search focused on literature on professional socialisation of learner nurses published from 2008 to 2018. The search resulted in 3035 articles which were further reduced to 13 after further synthesis. Critical appraisal skills programme was used to assess the quality of the studies.Results: Three main themes emerged. Learner factors, factors in the clinical learning areas and interpersonal factors were identified as the factors that facilitate professional socialisation of learners.Conclusion: Learners should have self-motivation and be supported and assisted to develop a positive professional identity. The clinical learning environment should have effective communication that fosters learning. Professional nurses should act as exemplary role models so that learners can emulate the conduct and practice. The review brought to light that the professional socialisation of learners is affected by the learner factors, clinical learning areas and personal factors.
Initiatives to boost resilience towards El Niño in Zimbabwe’s rural communities
Authors: Matunhu Jephias , Mago Stephen , Matunhu Viola
Published: February 2022

Most Zimbabweans living in rural areas experience acute shortages of water for domestic and agricultural purposes. Household poverty amongst rural inhabitants is also increasing because of factors such as El Niño-induced droughts, overdependence on donor assistance and government’s failure to invest in sufficient water infrastructure. The purpose of this article is to interrogate the initiatives that have been taken to alleviate food insecurity in Zimbabwe’s rural communities. Under the spotlight are the strategies that rural communities and other stakeholders embraced to adapt to the effects of El Niño and to reduce food poverty. We used extensive literature review methodology and explorative qualitative design to investigate how rural communities and other stakeholders in Zimbabwe deal with the issues of food security in the context of persistent El Niño-induced droughts. The results show that rural communities in Zimbabwe continue to experience food security challenges that require collaboration between communities, government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other stakeholders to build resilience against El Niño-induced droughts. Modernising water supply systems and agricultural management systems can improve the efficiency and effectiveness in food production and distribution.
The lived experiences and psychosocial impact of hearing loss on the quality of life of adults with Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis
Authors: Thusi Amanda B. , Paken Jessica
Published: February 2022

Background: Aminoglycosides used in the treatment of Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) are known to result in hearing loss. The effects of an acquired hearing loss with an MDR-TB diagnosis may have an increased adverse impact on the overall quality of life of an individual; however, there is minimal research in the area.Objectives: This study explores the psychological and emotional impact of hearing loss in adults with MDR-TB; and describes the experiences of the social, economic, and vocational impact of hearing loss in adults with MDR-TB.Method: A qualitative research study was conducted on 10 participants, with a confirmed diagnosis of MDR-TB and hearing loss. The researcher used a semi-structured questionnaire to collect data during face-to-face, audio-recorded interviews.Results: Hearing loss in patients diagnosed with MDR-TB has a significant adverse impact on the lived experiences of patients. Stigma, discrimination, psychological distress, adverse changes in family status and family relationships, financial constraints, and social challenges were some of the common issues reported by participants. Unemployment posed a significant challenge, resulting in participants having no economic stability because of MDR-TB, which was then worsened by the hearing loss; consequently, generating a great deal of stress. Participants reported feelings of worthlessness, a loss of identity, lack of motivation, feelings of embarrassment, and loss of independence.Conclusion: There is a significant irreversible social, psychological, and economic impact of hearing loss that has a direct impact on the lived experiences of MDR-TB patients and their families even after cure of MDR-TB. There is a need for improved treatment methods with psychosocial intervention strategies that equip patients to alleviate the adverse effects they experience.
Always keep on learning
Authors: Lochan Harsha
Published: February 2022

No abstract available.
My paediatric infectious diseases journey
Authors: Bobat Raziya A.
Published: February 2022

Abstract not available.
Infectious diseases as ‘a colourful universe of possibilities’
Authors: Govender Nelesh P.
Published: February 2022

No abstract available.
A population-based survey of autistic traits in Kenyan adolescents and young adults
Authors: Mamah Daniel , Mutiso Victoria , Gitonga Isaiah , Tele Albert , Ndetei David M.
Published: February 2022

Background: To date, there have been no large-scale population studies of autistic traits (AUT) conducted in Africa.Aim: The study aimed to estimate the prevalence and characteristics of autism spectrum disorders in a large sample of Kenyan adolescents and young adults.Setting: Tertiary academic institutions (87%) and directly from the community (13%).Methods: Our study surveyed 8918 youths (aged 15–25 years) using the autism spectrum quotient (AQ). Based on AQ scores, we derived groups with low (L-AUT), borderline (B-AUT), and high (H-AUT) autistic traits. Relationships of AUT with demographic factors, psychosis, affectivity and stress were investigated.Results: Internal consistency of the AQ in the population was excellent (Cronbach’s α = 0.91). Across all participants, 0.63% were estimated as having H-AUT, while 14.9% had B-AUT. Amongst community youth, prevalence of H-AUT was 0.98%. Compared to those with low and borderline traits, H-AUT participants were more likely to be males, to have lower personal and parental educational attainment, and to be of a lower socioeconomic status. The H-AUT group also had higher psychotic and affective symptoms as well as higher psychosocial stress than other groups.Conclusion: The prevalence of H-AUT amongst Kenyan youth is comparable to Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) rates in many countries. Autistic traits in Kenya are associated with worse social and clinical profiles. Further research on autism across Africa is needed to investigate cross-cultural heterogeneity of this disorder, and to guide healthcare policy.
Prevalence of depressive symptoms and quality of life among patients with diabetes mellitus with and without HIV infection: A South African study
Authors: Qubekile Yonela , Paruk Saeeda , Paruk Farhanah
Published: February 2022

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection are both associated with increased risk of mood disorders and poorer quality of life (QOL). This association has not been explored in patients living with comorbid DM and HIV.Aim: To describe the prevalence of depressive symptoms and impact on the QOL in patients with DM living with and without HIV attending a public sector hospital in South Africa.Setting: A medical outpatient clinic at a state regional hospital.Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire pilot survey was conducted amongst 101 patients with DM attending a specialist medical outpatient service. The assessment was conducted using a structured socio-demographic and clinical questionnaire, the patient health questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) for depressive symptoms and the World Health Organization QOL scale. The HIV status was confirmed from the clinical records. The correlates of depressive symptomatology in the participants with DM living with and without HIV were identified using t-tests.Results: The prevalence of depressive symptoms in the participants with DM was 36%. Moderate to severe depression was associated with female gender (p = 0.03) and low educational level (p = 0.02) but not with HIV comorbidity or clinical characteristics of DM. The QOL was influenced by moderate to severe depressive symptoms (QOL in physical p 0.218 and environmental p 0.001 domains), but not HIV status (p = 0.218).Conclusion: A substantial proportion of people with DM reported depressive symptoms, which is slightly higher than the average reported in other out-patient studies. The association of depression with poor QOL highlights the need for integrated mental health access in medical outpatient services. The lack of association between comorbid HIV status and DM with depression or QOL needs to be further explored.
Atypical Migraine in Clinical Practice
Authors: Francis M. V.
Published: February 2022

In countries like India, many migraine patients presenting to primary care clinics fail to fulfill standard (ICHD 3) migraine diagnostic criteria. Since they do not present with typical ICHD 3 migraine diagnostic symptoms, it is necessary to define the criteria for atypical migraine. This would ensure that the patients receive the right treatment approach, both non-pharmacological and pharmacological. Looking for triggers, family history, activity affected and absolute normality in between attacks, past episodes of episodic syndromes, prodromal and oculonasal autonomic symptoms will help in identifying the migraine origin of these headaches.
The Combined Occluding Effect of Sodium Fluoride Varnish and Erbium
Authors: Kawle Sahil , Gawande Harshraj , Gupte Jaiti , Jadhav Apurva , Raut Swati , Sinha Sonal
Published: February 2022

Introduction:

Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is one of the most common problems, but to date, no single agent or form of treatment has been found effective. Lasers have promising potential for the treatment of DH. This in vitro study aims to compare and evaluate the desensitising ability of a combination of sodium fluoride varnish (NaF) and Erbium: yttrium-aluminium-garnet (Er: YAG) laser by assessing tubule occlusion and depth of penetration of the agent in dentinal tubules through Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM), respectively.

Materials and Methods:

Forty-five extracted maxillary premolar teeth were included in this study. A 3-mm-thick horizontal slice was prepared from the cementoenamel junction of each tooth. Each slice was transversely separated into two halves as buccal and lingual samples. Ninety samples were obtained, and these samples were randomly divided into six equal groups. Groups A, B, C, and D were used for the evaluation of tubule occlusion with SEM Groups E and F were evaluated for dentin permeability with CLSM.

Results:

Intergroup comparisons showed statistically significant differences among groups, and it was observed that the combined use of Sodium fluoride and Er: YAG Laser showed better occluding (Group D) and depth penetration (Group F) effect when analysed using SEM and CLSM, respectively.

Conclusion:

It can be concluded that a combination of fluoride varnish and lasers offers a significant role in dentinal hypersensitivity.
Clinical Outcomes of COVID-19 Patients after Sequential Oxygen Therapy in Tertiary Medical College
Authors: Suryawanshi Chhaya M. , Narkhede Harsha , Mahanta Dipanjali
Published: February 2022

Background:

Acute respiratory failure is the main manifestation in patients with severe coronavirus disease (COVID-19), being hospitalized in an intensive care unit, and may even require invasive mechanical ventilation, which is associated with high mortality. The use of high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) for severe hypoxemic respiratory failure cases was limited in hospital setups. Its benefit to patients, compliance, complications, as well as comparison with non-invasive ventilation (NIV) mask were not studied.

Patients and Methods:

We included consecutive patients with COVID-19 acute respiratory failure who were categorized into three groups depending on admission oxygen saturation and respiratory rate for non-rebreather bag-mask (NRBM), HFNO, and NIV. All patients were observed for 2 weeks and defined parameters were noted. The mean and standard deviation were compared between the groups by using the ANOVA test; P-value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results:

The comparison of mean escalation of oxygen requirement on the 5th day showed a significant result (94.27 ± 1.7 vs. 92.16 ± 4.05 vs. 90.73 ± 2.49, respectively, P = 0.001). Similar findings were also found on the 10th day and 15th day of treatment. The NIV group showed a significant lack of compliance to oxygen therapy (P < 0.001) and also a significant incidence of complications (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

NIV showed a significant amount of escalation in oxygen requirement, reduced therapy compliance, and associated complications in comparison to the NRBM and HFNO in COVID-19 settings.
A Prospective Comparative Study of Fentanyl and Buprenorphine as an Adjuvant to Intrathecal Chloroprocaine for Perianal Surgeries
Authors: Annamalai Anbu Muruga Raj , Gnanasekaran Arun Sekar , Sathappan Kumaresan , Chandran Prasath
Published: February 2022

Introduction:

Chloroprocaine is a local anesthetic with faster onset of action and short half-life, which results in short duration of analgesia limiting its use in surgeries. Researches proved that synergy with other drugs prolongs the duration of action and also the postoperative analgesia of chloroprocaine. Thus the present study was designed to compare the effectiveness of adding buprenorphine and fentanyl to intrathecal 1% 2-chloroprocaine for perianal surgeries.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective comparative study included 100 American Society of Anaesthesiologists physical class 1 and 2 patients of age 18–60 years, body mass index <35, scheduled for short duration perianal surgeries under spinal anesthesia. Patients were randomized into two groups: 30 mg 1% chloroprocaine was given along with 25 µg fentanyl in group F and 75 µg buprenorphine in group B. The time of onset, duration of sensory and motor block, two-segment and complete regression of spinal anesthesia, and duration of postoperative analgesia were studied.

Results:

Time for two-segment regression was 41.40 ± 7.82 and 44.80 ± 6.14 min in groups F and B, respectively, with P=0.43. In groups F and B, time to reach the modified Bromage score of 3 was 4.41 ± 0.48 and 4.17 ± 0.57 min, respectively. The time to void was insignificantly longer in group B than that in F of 300.96 ± 35.41 and155.86 ± 46.67 min without requirement of urinary catheterization. The time of first postoperative analgesic requirement was significantly longer in group B than that of group F of 715.82 ± 127.09 178.07 ± 453.13 min, respectively.

Conclusion:

The addition of intrathecal buprenorphine to chloroprocaine for spinal anesthesia significantly prolonged the postoperative analgesia compared with addition of fentanyl.
Dexmedetomidine and Clonidine as Adjuvants to Ropivacaine in Adductor Canal Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Fultambkar Gajanan , Kasetty Shirisha , Vijayanand B. , Nair Abhijit
Published: February 2022

Background:

Patients undergoing arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction experience significant postoperative pain, which could lead to a delay in recovery and discharge from an ambulatory surgical setting. Adductor canal block (ACB) has been used to offer effective postoperative analgesia after ACL repair. We compared the analgesic efficacy of alpha-2 agonists clonidine and dexmedetomidine as adjuvants to local anesthetics in ACB.

Patients and Methods:

Sixty subjects scheduled for elective arthroscopic ACL reconstruction were randomized into two groups of 30 patients each. Group 1 patients received US-guided ACB with 20 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine with 1 μg/kg clonidine as an adjuvant; group 2 patients received ACB with 20 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine with 1 μg/kg dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant. Demographic data, pain scores, motor and sensory block, postoperative tramadol consumption, time to rescue analgesia, and adverse events were compared.

Results:

The demographic data were comparable between both groups. The patients in group 2 when compared with group 1 had increased time for request to rescue analgesic (488.83 ± 67.934 min compared with 975.07 ± 90.251 min, P < 0.001), reduced tramadol consumption (179.33 ± 44.095 mg compared with 179.33 ± 44.095 mg, P < 0.001), and better pain scores at 12 and 18 h. Postoperative nausea and vomiting was less in group 2 compared with group 1.

Conclusion:

Dexmedetomidine, when added as an adjuvant to 0.5% ropivacaine in ACB, leads to increased time to first request of tramadol, reduced postoperative tramadol requirement, and decreased NRS scores when compared with clonidine.
Severity of Cystocele and Risk Factors of Postoperative Stress Urinary Incontinence after Laparoscopic Sacrocolpopexy for Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Authors: Sato Hirotaka , Abe Hirokazu , Ikeda Atsushi , Miyagawa Tomoaki , Tsukada Sachiyuki
Published: February 2022

Objectives:

Knowledge on the severity of cystocele and incidence of postoperative stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after prolapse repair is lacking. This study investigated the incidence and risk factors of postoperative SUI following laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC).

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 83 women without occult SUI who underwent LSC for pelvic organ prolapse and developed SUI over 3 months postoperatively. We used Fisher's exact test, the Mann–Whitney U-test, and logistic regression for statistical data analyses.

Results:

After 3 months, the incidences of postoperative SUI were 50% and 24% in those who did and did not report preoperative SUI, respectively. Eventually, postoperative SUI was reported by 39% and 9% of the women with and without preoperative SUI, respectively. Increased Ba (point of maximal anterior vaginal wall prolapse) measurement (odds ratio [OR], 1.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0–2.06; P = 0.04) and preoperative SUI (OR, 3.95; 95% CI, 1.14–13.7; P = 0.03) were the risk factors for postoperative SUI.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that counseling regarding the risk of postoperative SUI should be conducted for women with preoperative advanced cystocele or bothersome SUI.
Intravascular ultrasound-guided zero-contrast percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Kumar N. Prathap , Jino V. Blessvin , Manu R. , Roy J. Stalin , Villoth Sandheep G.
Published: February 2022

Chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes mellitus, older age, acute coronary syndrome, and cardiogenic shock are the common predisposing factors for contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Apart from intravenous normal saline administration, other measures to prevent CI-AKI have not been consistently beneficial. More recently, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)-guided zero-contrast PCI has emerged as an important method to prevent CI-AKI in experienced centers. Technical expertise in complex PCI and meticulous analysis of IVUS are required for this procedure. In this review, the authors have described the basic details of the steps involved in this technique. The authors believe that clinical implementation of this technique has the potential for mortality benefit in patients who are at high risk of CI-AKI.
Influence of social media on urologic knowledge acquisition among young urologists in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Azhar Raed A. , Subahi Mohnna S. , Badr Hattan , Buksh Omar , Khawaji Abdullah , Yamni Ahmed K. , Amoudi Ghada Ahmad , Nassir Anmar
Published: February 2022

Objectives:

The present study explores how young urologists in Saudi Arabia are adopting social media as a learning tool and how this new development is shaping as far as learning is concerned.

Methods:

A 18-item online survey via survemonkey.com was conducted. The survey was distributed through email in Saudi Arabia. The survey targeted young urologists and urology residents. The survey design and distribution was performed according to CHERRIES guidelines. Due to the quantitative nature of study data, SPSS software was used to analyze collected data.

Results:

A total of 104 young Saudi urologists responded to our survey. Participants were mostly familiar with the use of Twitter (86%), followed closely by YouTube (82%) and then Snapchat and Instagram (73% and 63%, respectively), a large portion (72%) of participants believe that social media has a moderate-to-high influence on their urology knowledge, YouTube was by far the most used source to watch and understand surgical skills, followed by reference books and websites, respectively.

Conclusion:

Social media has contributed to the spread of medical information among urology community and outside the urology community as well, with easier spread of medical knowledge to all involved by using social media, an extensive impact is achieved to both physicians and patients as well. For future work, this study should be conducted again, to monitor and compare the progression of usage among urologists.
Whitney’s extension theorem and the finiteness principle for curves in the Heisenberg group
Authors: Zimmerman Scott
Published: February 2022

Consider the sub-Riemannian Heisenberg group

\mathbb{H}

. In this paper, we answer the following question: given a compact set

K \subseteq \mathbb{R}

and a continuous map

f\colon K \to \mathbb{H}

, when is there a horizontal

C^m

curve

F\colon \mathbb{R} \to \mathbb{H}

such that

F|_K = f

? Whitney originally answered this question for real valued mappings, and Fefferman provided a complete answer for real valued functions defined on subsets of

\mathbb{R}^n

. We also prove a finiteness principle for

C^{m,\sqrt{\omega}}

horizontal curves in the Heisenberg group in the sense of Brudnyi and Shvartsman.
The relationship between poor sleep quality measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and smoking status according to sex and age: an analysis of the 2018 Korean Community Health Survey
Authors: Hwang Jun Hyun , Park Soon-Woo
Published: February 2022

OBJECTIVES: Multiple studies have found that cigarette smokers are more likely to experience sleep disturbances than non-smokers. This study aimed to examine various associations between smoking and sleep quality according to sex and age, which have yet to be sufficiently examined in prior studies.METHODS: Data analysis was conducted using a nationally representative sample of 224,986 Korean adults who participated in the 2018 Korea Community Health Survey. Sleep quality, as the dependent variable, was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), with PSQI scores indicating either good (≤4 points) or poor (>5 points) sleep quality. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed considering socio-demographic factors, health behaviors, comorbidities, and psychological factors as covariates.RESULTS: The overall weighted prevalence of poor sleep quality was 39.4% (95% confidence interval, 39.1 to 39.7). In the multivariate model that excluded psychological factors, poor sleep quality positively correlated to smoking for both sexes and all age groups except for male aged ≥65 years. However, in the full model that included psychological factors, statistically significant odds ratios (approximately 1.5) for poor sleep quality according to smoking status were only observed for female under 65 years of age.CONCLUSIONS: The relationship between poor sleep quality and smoking status differed according to sex and age. In order to improve the quality of sleep, it is necessary to intervene smoking cessation along with solving psychological problems, especially female in middle age and younger.
Transfusion Transmitted Infections: A Present-Day Danger for Pakistan
Authors: Javed Syed Owais , Saleem Aqsa , Sahito Abdul Moiz , Hasan Mohammad Mehedi
Published: February 2022

Over 1.5 million units of blood are collected in Pakistan each year, with around 65% of this donation coming from replacement donors—relatives or close friends of the affected who willingly donate blood to support the patient. Although blood transfusion is a life-saving therapy, it also involves the danger of spreading blood-borne illnesses if not appropriately screened. It has been extensively discussed that the precise number of transfusion transmitted infections (TTIs) in the Pakistani population is still unclear, and the estimates reported by the Sindh Blood Transfusion Authority may be a major underestimation because of the country’s lack of inexpensive and effective screening tests. Regular blood transfusions are the mainstay of treatment of patients with blood diseases such as thalassemia and anemia. They are also commonly used to handle acute injuries, surgery, bleeding, and birthing difficulties. However, the risk of getting a TTI results in an increased hesitancy among blood transfusion recipients. Hence, to reduce the occurrence of TTIs, effective and vigorous measures must be implemented.