bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Learning, Neural Networks, and Their Applications in Business Analytics
Authors: Singh Yadav Nagendra Singh , Yadav Pallavi Singh , Goar Vishal
Published: April 2024

This chapter aims to discover the growing significance of deep learning and neural networks in the field of business analytics. As businesses continue to generate vast amounts of data, the need for advanced analytical techniques to extract valuable insights has become paramount. Deep learning has demonstrated remarkable capabilities in tackling complex analytical tasks, making them indispensable tools for businesses seeking a competitive edge. The chapter will provide an overview of deep learning and neural networks, delving into their fundamental principles, architectures, and training methodologies. It will then focus on their real-world applications in various aspects of business analytics, such as customer behavior analysis, demand forecasting, fraud detection, recommendation systems, and more.
The Nexus of Social Commerce and Blockchain Technology
Authors: Grover Abhay , Arora Nilesh
Published: April 2024

This study explores the transformative interplay of social commerce and blockchain technology within the stock market, scrutinising theoretical frameworks and practical implications. Social commerce, blending 'social' and 'commerce', shapes a dynamic digital marketplace, eroding boundaries between interactions and transactions. Simultaneously, blockchain, with its decentralised and secure nature, emerges as a trust foundation in the digital realm. The nexus of these forces redefines finance, introducing heightened security and transparency to social commerce platforms and reshaping the stock market. The study addresses pivotal research questions concerning investor behaviour, predictive analysis, trading strategies, and regulatory challenges. Employing a holistic research methodology, the study contributes valuable insights, bridging disciplines and prompting a re-evaluation of financial models. Envisioning a dynamic coexistence, the review anticipates the transformative potential of this nexus in the evolving financial landscape.
Intelligent Decision Making Through Bio-Inspired Optimization
Authors: Chellam J. Angel Ida , Muthukumar Preethi , Selvi M. Senthamil
Published: April 2024

Ant colony optimization is a popular metaheuristic algorithm inspired by the foraging behavior of ants. It's often used to solve complex optimization problems. Train scheduling is a challenging problem involving the allocation of train resources, routes, and timetables to optimize various objectives like minimizing travel time, energy consumption. In train scheduling, this usually involves defining nodes and arcs to represent railway stations, tracks, and possible connections to optimize, well-defined, such as minimizing the total travel time or energy consumption. The process of ant movement and pheromone update is repeated for a predefined number of iterations or until a termination condition is met. Vehicle routing problem with time frames, the time dependent VRP, the VRP with pickup and delivery, and the dynamic VRP were developed to bring the VRP closer to the types of situations found in the real world. The optimum route serving all clients utilizing a driver's maximum working hours and minimizing total transportation cost is one solution to this problem.
“Super Cloud” and the Sustainability of Business
Authors: Karmakar Rupak
Published: April 2024

Cloud computing and multi cloud are all terms we've become used to hearing. Now we can add ‘super cloud' or ‘sky computing' to the new terminology. It describes the infrastructure of computing of the coming decade. ‘Super cloud' revolutionized the concept of information networking and infrastructure. It is basically used in processing power, application in networking, and most importantly providing computer storage, so the user can use it to a further extent. When the authors used terminology like the internet, there are security issues that must be fixed. Major challenges have come to setting up ‘Super cloud' like security.
Performance of ESG Funds Under the Shadow of Climate Policy Uncertainty
Authors: Ghosh Raktim , Paul Biswajit , Bagchi Bhaskar
Published: April 2024

This study empirically investigates the effects of the climate policy uncertainty (CPU) on the BSE 100 ESG during the study period December 2017 to August 2023 in the backdrop of the application of ESG reporting that was introduced in India in December 2009 with the voluntary guidelines issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Government of India. To address the objectives of the study, different econometric tools namely the FIGARCH model, Wavelet Coherence Analysis, Johansen Co-integration test, Wald test, and Philips-Perron unit root test, along with descriptive statistics are used. The study reveals a noteworthy volatility effect and the variability in the volatility on the BSE 100 ESG from the CPU index. Johansen's co-integration test confirms the presence of a long-run association between the select variables. However, the Wald test suggests the absence of short-run association. Furthermore, the FIGARCH model confirms the lack of a long-memory effect but there exists a substantial impact of CPU on the BSE 100 ESG established by the results of the Wavelet Coherence test.
Reshaping Futures
Authors: Halder Subrata
Published: April 2024

This study comprehensively explores corporate social responsibility (CSR) in India over eight years (2014-15 to 2021-22), analyzing trends, regional variations, and the socio-economic impact. It uncovers intriguing patterns in CSR engagement and emphasizes the widening gap in spending between top and bottom states. Using regression models, the study quantitatively assesses the influence of CSR investments in health and education on poverty and human development. Results highlight the pivotal role of CSR in health, education, poverty reduction, and overall human development. The empirical dimension deepens the understanding of CSR dynamics in India, contributing significantly to academic literature and offering practical insights for policymakers. This multi-level examination, covering expenditure trends and socio-economic outcomes, enriches the discourse on CSR in India, providing a holistic perspective for comprehensive comprehension and strategic decision-making.
Temporal Dynamics of Capital Inflows, Currency Valuation, and Economic Performance in the Indian Economy
Authors: Kundu Amit , Chakraborty Barendra Nath
Published: April 2024

This chapter investigates the association between FDI inflow, exchange rate and GDP in India for the period 1990-2021. How changes in exchange rate affected the openness measures of India such as FDI and vice versa are the matter of study of this chapter. Cointegration among the three (FDI, exchange rate and GDP) is the prime focus of this investigation. Unit root test, Johansen cointegration test, Granger causality, VAR and variance decomposition are adopted to investigate the relation. Key findings include that, variables are not cointegrated. VAR shows that FDI positively affects GDP from 20 periods ahead forecast. It is found that 40% variance in GDP can be explained by exchange rate and on the other hand 5% forecast error variance in exchange rate can be explained by GDP. Further research direction and policy implications are presented at the end.
Women Empowerment as a Tool to Attain Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Ghosh Gopa , Roy Payel , Das Reuben , Hembrom Mercy
Published: April 2024

This study tries to construct a women empowerment index based on different decision-making areas. For this study, 131 married and unmarried working women from a tribal village of West Bengal, India are surveyed through a structured questionnaire having 34 questions segregated into five dimensions. The responses are coded and converted into binary scores to show more empowered scored as 1 and less or not empowered being scored as 0 to construct a combined composite women empowerment index. The analysis reveals that on average the women studied are moderately empowered with married ones winning over the unmarried. Though there is not much impact of education level is found for the married ones in their empowerment level but for the unmarried women, the more the educational qualification, the more are they empowered.
Spatial Data-Driven Citizen Engagement in the Metaverse
Authors: Mobo Froilan Delute , Ahmad Munir
Published: April 2024

The chapter delves into the pivotal role of spatial data in civic interactions across many domains, elucidating its significance in decision-making, community engagement, and governance. Spatial data support governments in disaster management, public health, environmental protection strategies, transport management, tourism planning strategies, and marketing campaigns with spatial insights. Mapping tools and platforms enhance civic engagement by facilitating collaborative data interpretation, while story maps merge narratives with spatial data for advocacy purposes. Participatory mapping platforms empower communities to contribute to decision-making, and augmented reality technologies improve spatial awareness. Virtual community building thrives on spatial data, shaping social networks, and fostering identity formation and trust through immersive experiences. Challenges in spatial data and virtual environments, including technological complexities and legal frameworks, necessitate balanced approaches to facilitate community engagement while fostering innovation and societal impact.
Examining the Impact of AI and Digital Marketing on Consumer Purchase Intention
Authors: Khandelwal Aditi R. , Yadav Ratisha , Chaturvedi Ankita , Kumar A. V. Senthil
Published: April 2024

This study examines the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Marketing on Consumer Purchase Intention. Through a sample of 400 respondents from North-West India, comprising both males and females across different age groups, data was collected via an online survey questionnaire. Statistical analyses, including independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and regression, were employed to assess the relationships between these variables. The findings indicate that gender does not significantly influence purchase intention, while age groups exhibit slight variance. However, the presence of AI and Digital Marketing significantly impacts consumer purchase intention, highlighting the importance of adopting AI-driven digital marketing strategies for businesses. Ethical considerations surrounding data privacy and transparency are crucial in leveraging AI effectively. Overall, this study underscores the transformative potential of AI and Digital Marketing in shaping consumer behavior and driving purchase intention, providing insights for businesses aiming to navigate the dynamic digital landscape effectively. The practical implications of the study's findings are significant for organizations seeking to improve their digital marketing efforts.
Can Digitalization Prevent Pollution-Related Employment Loss?
Authors: del Mar Martínez-Bravo María
Published: April 2024

Cities face major challenges due to pollution issues such as significant employment losses as the workforce is becoming more concerned with environmental issues. In this context, digitalization literature is gaining momentum as it has been signaled as a potential game-changer for addressing urban challenges. However, the impact that urban digitalization might have on reversing the negative effects of urban pollution on the job loss is unexplored. This chapter analyzes the relationship between urban pollution and urban employment rates, and the moderating effect of urban digitalization on this relationship, using a sample of 404 OECD cities. The results confirm both hypotheses. When urban pollution increases, the employment rate decreases. Moreover, urban digitalization has the potential to revert this relationship. This chapter contributes to the literature on urban management and to the understanding of urban dynamics as a guide for the necessary evolution of cities.
Inclusive Democracy in the Digital Age
Authors: Faganello Claucia Piccoli , Luciano Edimara Mezzomo
Published: April 2024

This chapter examines the impact of digital platforms on democracy, focusing on Brazil's adoption of Decidim for the Brasil Participativo initiative. In the middle of Brazil's democratic challenges and declining public trust, Decidim's introduction represents a pivotal case in using digital tools to enhance democratic engagement. By analyzing the initiative, which boasts 4.3 million accesses and over 1.4 million registered users, this study delves into digital governance's potential to rebuild trust and foster inclusive participation. Employing a case study methodology, it assesses qualitative and quantitative data to understand Decidim's role in facilitating public engagement. This research not only highlights the significance of digital tools in promoting democracy but also offers global insights, making Brazil's experience a valuable lesson for other countries aiming to improve governance through technology.
Optimizing Food Safety and Quality Assurance in the Hotel Industry
Authors: Saxena Sanjeev Kumar , K. N. Lokesh Kumar , Kaur Baljit , Priya Nishi
Published: April 2024

This chapter is a product of the author's extensive first-hand experience gained during their tenure at hotels. The insights shared in this chapter are a result of the author's direct involvement in the field and their interactions with colleagues occupying the role of food safety and quality assurance heads in various hotels. The chapter explored a multifaceted approach encompassing regulatory frameworks, best practices, technological innovations, supply chain management, staff training, and guest engagement to ensure the highest standards of food safety and quality. Key highlights included the adoption of hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP) and ISO 22000, robust supply chain partnerships, continuous staff training, regular audits, in-house microbiological testing, allergen management, responsible garbage management, advanced technology integration, third-party certifications, and active guest involvement. These practices collectively exemplified how hotels could safeguard guest well-being.
An Approach of SIFT With Fed-VGG16 and Fed-CNN for Identification and Classification of Brain Tumors
Authors: Dash Shreeharsha , Das Subhalaxmi
Published: April 2024

Brain tumors develop when cells in the brain multiply rapidly and unchecked. It can be fatal if not addressed in its early stages. Getting segmentation and classification right is still a challenge, despite a lot of work and good results in this field. Radiologists may now more easily locate tumor regions with the use of experimental medical imaging techniques like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Image processing techniques such as pre-processing, segmentation, contour detection, feature extraction using SIFT (scale invariant feature transformation), classification using VGG16, CNN, Fed-VGG16, Fed-CNN classifiers, and evaluation using confusion matrices are presented in this study. The models reach up to 97%, 98.51%, 99.28%, and 100% classification accuracy for the used classifiers, correspondingly, according to the experimental data. In order to facilitate early detection for subsequent research and activity, it seeks to mitigate some of the problems that have already been addressed.
Improving Leukemia Detection Accuracy
Authors: Awujoola Olalekan Joel , Aniemeka Theophilus Enem , Abioye Oluwasegun Abiodun , Awujoola Abidemi Elizabeth , Ajakaiye Fiyinfoluwa , Adelegan Olayinka Racheal
Published: April 2024

The study explores ResNet-101 CNNs and Haralick texture analysis for leukemia cell detection. Leveraging CLAHE preprocessing and hybrid feature extraction, it enhances model accuracy by capturing subtle details. The approach combines deep learning with nuanced texture analysis, improving classification. Evaluation on original and segmented datasets demonstrates 99.62% and 98.08% accuracy, respectively, showcasing the method's efficacy. This advancement in medical image analysis promises improved diagnostics and treatment for leukemia.
Revolutionizing Medical Imaging
Authors: Eswaran Ushaa
Published: April 2024

Medical imaging has transformed healthcare, but traditional techniques like X-rays and MRI have limitations. This chapter explores cutting-edge technologies like AI, quantum sensing, and wearable devices, poised to revolutionize imaging. It discusses their potential to enhance diagnosis, personalize treatment, and improve patient outcomes. The integration of computational methods and ethical considerations in imaging innovation is also examined, promising a new era of precision medicine and healthcare delivery.
Avaliação da atividade de compostos bioativos presentes na erva-mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hill) ao longo dos processos industriais
Authors: Steffens Clarice , Galina Debora , Nascimento Lucas Henrique , Steffens Juliana
Published: April 2024

A utilização da erva-mate propagou-se praticamente por todo o mundo devido a descoberta dos benefícios à saúde por meio do consumo de bebidas e derivados desta planta. Durante o processamento industrial, podem sofrer alterações no perfil e na concentração dos compostos bioativos, os quais podem modificar suas atividades biológicas. Neste sentido este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a umidade relativa, o teor de cafeína, compostos fenólicos e a atividade antioxidante na erva-mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hill) plantada in natura e ao longo de cada etapa industrial, como no sapeco, secagem (em secador rotativo e esteira) e moagem. As amostras de erva-mate in natura foram coletadas na região do Alto Uruguai entre os municípios de Barão de Cotegipe e Erechim; e foram processadas e coletadas em uma indústria ervateira. A extração dos compostos bioativos das amostras foi realizada em ultrassom com solvente hidroalcóolico. Os resultados adquiridos permitiram verificar que os teores de cafeína, compostos fenólicos e atividade antioxidante nos extratos de erva-mate obtidos nas diferentes etapas do processamento industrial foram maiores em relação a amostra in natura. Assim, verificou-se que a erva-mate processada para chimarrão é uma excelente fonte de compostos bioativos.
Forest tent caterpillar (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae) across Canada, 1938–2001: II. Emergent periodicity from asynchronous eruptive anomalies
Authors: Cooke Barry J.
Published: April 2024

Using aerial sketch map data spanning more than 1 000 000 km2 across Canada, I use cluster analysis to show that outbreaks of forest tent caterpillar, Malacosoma disstria Hübner (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae), through the 20th century have occurred regularly every decade or so; however, there are two distinct aspects to the patterning of outbreaks. The dominant mode of variability is a nonrecurring pattern of singular spike anomalies, lasting just a few years, that are regional in extent but are not synchronised across the country. The regional time series derived from cluster analysis that are dominated by these singular spike eruptions exhibit extreme skewness and kurtosis, are not stationary in mean or variance, and are not amenable to classical time-series analysis. Although these regional-scale eruptive anomalies tend to occur periodically in aggregate, their central location always varies in an unpredictable manner, resulting in aperiodic local behaviour. Range-wide periodicity is thus an emergent property from asynchronous, aperiodic eruptions aggregated across regions. The second mode of variability is a low-amplitude fluctuation of weak periodicity that is weakly synchronised across the country. These observations support a hybrid cyclic–eruptive theory of outbreak occurrence that is not consistent with the simpler idea of spatially synchronised cycling.
Bioinformatics Study and Experimental Evaluation of miR-182, and miR-34 Expression Profiles in Tuberculosis and Lung Cancer
Authors: Alimardanian Leila , Soltani Bahram Mohammad , Irani Shiva , Sheikhpour Mojgan
Published: April 2024

Background: Lung cancer is one of the most dangerous cancers and tuberculosis is one of the deadliest infectious diseases in the world. Many studies have confirmed the connection between lung cancer and tuberculosis, and also the microRNAs (miRNAs) that play a major role in the development of these two diseases. This study aims to use different databases to find effective miRNAs and their role in different genes in lung and tuberculosis diseases. It also aims to determine the role of miR-34a and miR-182 in lung cancer and tuberculosis.Methods: Using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, the influential miRNA databases were studied in the two diseases. Finally, considering bioinformatics results and literature studies, two miR-34a and miR-182 were selected. The role of these miRNAs and their target genes was carefully evaluated using bioinformatics. The expression of miRNAs in the plasma of patients with lung cancer and tuberculosis and healthy individuals was investigated.Results: According to the GEO database, miR-34a and miR-182 are miRNAs that affect tuberculosis and lung cancer. By checking the miRBase, miRcode, DIANA, miRDB, galaxy, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes databases, the role of these miRNAs on genes and different molecular pathways and their effect on these miRNAs were mentioned. The results of the present study showed that the expression of miR-34a and miR-182 was lower than that of healthy people. The p-value for miR-182 was <0.0001 and for miR-34a was 0.3380.Conclusion: Reducing the expression pattern of these miRNAs indicates their role in lung cancer and tuberculosis occurrence. Therefore, these miRNAs can be used as a biomarker for prognosis, diagnosis, and treatment methods.
THEMIS2 Impairs Antitumor Activity of NK Cells by Suppressing Activating NK Receptor Signaling
Authors: Deborah Elfira Amalia , Nabekura Tsukasa , Shibuya Kazuko , Shibuya Akira
Published: April 2024

NK cells are cytotoxic innate lymphocytes that play a critical role in antitumor immunity. NK cells recognize target cells by using a repertoire of activating NK receptors and exert the effector functions. Although the magnitude of activation signals through activating NK receptors controls NK cell function, it has not been fully understood how these activating signals are modulated in NK cells. In this study, we found that a scaffold protein, THEMIS2, inhibits activating NK receptor signaling. Overexpression of THEMIS2 attenuated the effector function of human NK cells, whereas knockdown of THEMIS2 enhanced it. Mechanistically, THEMIS2 binds to GRB2 and phosphorylated SHP-1 and SHP-2 at the proximity of activating NK receptors DNAM-1 and NKG2D. Knockdown of THEMIS2 in primary human NK cells promoted the effector functions. Furthermore, Themis2-deficient mice showed low metastatic burden in an NK cell–dependent manner. These findings demonstrate that THEMIS2 has an inhibitory role in the antitumor activity of NK cells, suggesting that THEMIS2 might be a potential therapeutic target for NK cell–mediated cancer immunotherapy.
Cutting Edge: First Lung Infection Permanently Enlarges Lymph Nodes and Enhances New T Cell Responses
Authors: Stolley J Michael , Scott Milcah C , O’Flanagan Stephen D , Künzli Marco , Matson Courtney A , Weyu Eyob , Langlois Ryan A , Vezys Vaiva , Masopust David
Published: April 2024

Humans experience frequent respiratory infections. Immunology and vaccinology studies in mice are typically performed in naive specific pathogen-free animals responding to their very first respiratory challenge. We found that the first respiratory infection induces lifelong enlargement of the lung-draining mediastinal lymph nodes (medLNs). Furthermore, infection-experienced medLNs supported better naive T cell surveillance and effector responses to new unrelated infections that exhibited more biased accumulation and memory establishment within the lung. Moreover, we observed that weight loss induced by influenza infection was substantially reduced in mice that had recovered from a previous unrelated respiratory viral challenge. These data show that the lack of infectious history and corresponding medLN hypoplasia in specific pathogen-free mice alter their immune response to lung infections. Preclinical vaccination and immunology studies should consider the previous infectious experience of the model organism.
Treatment satisfaction among patients with psoriasis in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aldhafiri Mahdi , Almutairi Rahaf , Albejais Reem , Almubark Asma , Alwesaibie Hussain , Albesher Mohammed , Almustihi Manayer
Published: April 2024

Psoriasis, affecting 2% of the population, burdens individuals physically and emotionally, with adherence challenges (39–73%). Treatment ranges from topical to systemic therapy including biologics. Although biologic therapy improves clinical outcomes, side effects lead 50% of severe cases to prefer topical treatment. This study evaluates patient satisfaction in Saudi Arabia with various psoriasis treatments, offering insights and addressing the crucial aspect of satisfaction in management. This is a cross-sectional study, using an electronic questionnaire aligned with prior research, included Saudi adults with psoriasis undergoing topical, biological, or phototherapy treatment. Exclusions encompassed non-treatment recipients and participants outside Saudi Arabia. A total of 314 psoriasis patients receiving treatment were included, the most reported types were Plaque psoriasis. The most reported sites of psoriasis included scalp. 70.1% of the patients received topical treatment, 36.3% received systematic treatment, and 18.2% used phototherapy. The participants showed an intermediate satisfaction level, the highest satisfaction for systematic treatments followed by phototherapy and the lowest satisfaction for topical treatments. Male gender, plaque psoriasis, and lack of disease follow-up were associated with poor satisfaction levels.
Preoperative cross-matching in major elective surgical procedures in children: An audit of department’s transfusion practices
Authors: Raju Rajkiran Srinivas , Mahadevaiah Shubha Attibele , Devi Shanthala A. M.
Published: April 2024

AIMS:

To determine the utilization of cross-matched packed red blood cell (PRBC) concentrate in children posted for major elective operative procedures. To evaluate the efficacy of a simple preoperative “screening criteria” for ordering preoperative cross-match.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Data were retrieved from online surgery scheduling system prospectively over a 4-month period (January–April 2022). The number of units cross-matched and those utilized were assessed. A screening criterion was devised in consultation with stakeholders for ordering blood. The utilization of PRBCs was reassessed after implementation of these criteria and reaudited (July–October 2022). A subset analysis of A1 (tunneled catheter placements) and A2 (core pediatric surgical procedures) groups was done to analyze blood utilization.

RESULTS:

Initial audit showed poor PRBC utilization with 46 units unused of the 54 cross-matched units, and most of these were from A1 group (3 of 29 units and 5 out of 25 units utilized in A1 and A2 groups, respectively). Reaudit after introducing cutoff criteria showed sharp decline (79.3%) in the number of cross-matched units and the number of units returned (84.6% decrease) in A1 group and the number of units returned unused dropped by 50% in the A2 group. There was visible reversal of indicators of utilization (cross-match to transfusion ratio dropped from 6.75 to 1.73 and TI increased from 0.163 to 0.613), indicating optimal utilization.

CONCLUSION:

This pilot audit clearly demonstrates the gap between requisition and utilization of cross-matched PRBCs. Formulating an effective screening criterion avoids unnecessary cross-matching and wastage of resources and maximizes utilization.
Evaluating the effectiveness of three communication modes in promoting repeat voluntary donation behavior in first-time blood donors at a tertiary care blood center in North India
Authors: Mahajan Anshu , Akhtar Naveen , Sharma Salve , Sidhu Meena
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Due to rapid technological advancements, several new methods such as telephone (TP), e-mail, social media, WhatsApp (WA), and Short Message Services are being used as effectively among blood centers worldwide for postdonation communication with blood donors’ education and motivation to recruit and retain them as repeat and regular voluntary nonremunerated blood donors. The present study was aimed at determining the effectiveness of WA, TP, and personal communications (PCs) as modes of communication to recruit and retain first-time replacement blood donors to become repeat and regular voluntary blood donors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This 1-year observational prospective study was conducted in the Post Graduate Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion in Government Medical College and Hospital, Jammu. Three hundred first-time blood donors selected for the study were divided into three groups comprising 100 blood donors each as per the mode of communication strategy adopted, namely postdonation PC, TP, and WA groups.

RESULTS:

The repeat donation rate was highest in the TP group (61%), followed by the WA group (47%) and PC group (37%). The mean repeat donation was found to be significant in the TP group (P = 0.007) and WA group (P = 0.021) as compared PC group while there was no significant difference between the TP group and WA groups (0.751).

CONCLUSION:

In our study, it was found that of the three communication modes, namely personal, TP, and WA, telephonic communication with a repeat donation rate of 61% was the most effective mode of communication in for motivating and converting first-time blood donors into repeat regular voluntary blood donors.
Thick tiny hearts and tangled vessels: Navigating the complexity of a neonate with hepatic arteriovenous malformation, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and persistent pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Thakur Shaifalika , Kishore Sunil , Ahmar Rizwan , Kumar Rakesh
Published: April 2024

Congenital hepatic arteriovenous malformation (HAVM) is an uncommonly encountered condition in clinical practice. This condition often presents as isolated hepatomegaly, congestive cardiac failure or anemia. Here, we discuss a case of a full-term neonate who was admitted to the neonatal care unit for birth asphyxia and neonatal sepsis and was consecutively diagnosed with HAVM and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, along with persistent pulmonary hypertension.
Prevalence and prognostic significance of iron deficiency anemia among heart failure patients: A prospective observational study
Authors: Qureshi Naeem , Kumar Abhishek , Muneer Kader
Published: April 2024

Background:

Patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) frequently have associated iron deficiency, which may or may not be associated with anemia. Studies to ascertain the impact of repleting iron in patients with CHF and various other prognostic markers are lacking in Indian patients and the Indian context.

Objectives:

The objective is to study the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in patients with CHF and its prognostic significance in predicting major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) during 6 months of follow-up along with the role of other clinical and demographic variables.

Methodology:

A prospective, observational, hospital-based study conducted in a government tertiary medical center in south India on patients admitted with the diagnosis of CHF. Full demographic and clinical characterization and all relevant laboratory investigations including iron profile were done per protocol. The incidence of a MACE (rehospitalization for heart failure or death) and its association with iron deficiency was studied at the end of a 6-month follow-up.

Results:

A total of 388 patients were followed for 6 months. Out of those, 211 patients (54%) developed composite outcomes. Old age, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, previous heart failure history, chronic kidney disease, and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction were independent predictors of composite outcome. The prevalence of anemia in the study population was 71%, and iron deficiency was 63% (20% absolute and 43% relative). Iron deficiency without anemia was also an independent predictor of the composite outcome.

Conclusions:

This study highlights the underestimated and neglected burden of iron deficiency in CHF patients in India. It also suggests further large-scale studies to characterize this easily treatable condition better and consider routine testing of iron profiles in future Indian guidelines.
Perplexities in anticoagulation management of prosthetic heart valve in pregnancy
Authors: Yadav Sangeeta , Pradhan Mandakini
Published: April 2024

The presence of prosthetic heart valve in pregnancy causes significant risk to mother and fetus and poses a great management challenge. There is a high risk of valve thrombosis necessitating uninterrupted anticoagulation which may lead to increased risk of maternal and fetal bleeding as well as embryopathy. There is no anticoagulation strategy that is entirely safe and difficult decisions need to be taken. No single approach fits all patients and patient care needs to be individualized. Preconception counseling and evaluation by the multidisciplinary team taking in account all the associated risk factors helps in providing a balanced comprehensive approach for the best possible outcome.
Multinodular goiter with a retropharyngeal extension: A report of two cases and literature review
Authors: Alqahtani Sarah M. , Alwohaibi Rawaa N. , Alahmari Mohammed S. , Almuhaimid Turki M.
Published: April 2024

Multinodular goiter (MNG) is a chronic benign nodular enlargement of the thyroid gland. It presents as an anterior painless neck mass, potentially progressing to exert pressure on the trachea and esophagus and giving rise to compressive symptoms. MNG is a common thyroid gland disorder; however, retropharyngeal goiter is considered rare with few reported cases. We report the cases of two patients who presented to our institution with MNG with retropharyngeal extension: a 62-year-old female patient who presented with a progressive anterior neck mass with dilated neck veins; and a 49-year-old male who presented with a painless anterior neck mass. Both patients successfully underwent total thyroidectomy with an uneventful postoperative recovery. The clinical presentation of MNG with retropharyngeal extension varies with patients; hence, a high index of suspicion is of the utmost significance. While the retropharyngeal extension does not cause compressive symptoms, it should raise the suspicion of a large retrosternal component.
Rotavirus and adenovirus in children evaluated for viral gastroenteritis at a single healthcare center in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia: A perspective of two decades
Authors: Alqurayn Ahmed K. , Obeid Obeid E. , Alkharsah Khaled R.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

The aim of this study was to determine the distribution of rotavirus and adenovirus in pediatric patients evaluated for viral gastroenteritis in a hospital in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia for 22 years.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a retrospective study based in a secondary healthcare center in Saudi Arabia. Laboratory and demographic data were collected from hospital records for all pediatric patients (up to 14 years old) evaluated for viral gastroenteritis by rotavirus/adenovirus antigen detection kit from January 2000 to December 2022. Data were analyzed utilizing SPSS version 28.0. Categorical data were presented as frequency and percentages, whereas mean and standard deviations were computed for continuous variables. Chi-square test and t-test were used to determine statistical significance.

RESULTS:

The overall yields of antigen detection were 13.6% for rotavirus and 2.6% for adenovirus. Coinfection with both viruses was documented in 0.5% of the study population. Rotavirus was persistently detected in the past two decades with varying frequency, but the detection of adenovirus showed intervals of at least three consecutive years of zero confirmed cases. Before 2013, when the rotavirus vaccine was introduced in Saudi Arabia, rotavirus was much more prevalent than adenovirus (30% compared to 3.8% in 2010), but they became equally prevalent a decade after the introduction of the vaccine. Rotavirus gastroenteritis showed three different peaks in the year, in March, July, and December. Each peak was followed by a gradual decrease in prevalence before the next peak. Adenovirus, in contrast, was detected consistently around the year at rates between 2% and 5%.

CONCLUSION:

Rotavirus and adenovirus gastroenteritis have changed in prevalence in the past two decades. We found distinct seasonal patterns associated with rotavirus and adenovirus gastroenteritis. The utilization of virological testing for pediatric gastroenteritis with syndromic testing panels is to be encouraged to improve the knowledge of the true prevalence of enteric viruses.
Epidemiological characteristics of Klebsiella ozaenae infection and its antibiotic susceptibility: Experience of a tertiary care hospital in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia
Authors: AlJindan Reem
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Klebsiellaozaenae(K.ozaenae), a forgotten pathogen that normally colonizes the upper respiratory mucosa, can be associated with severe and invasive infections. The objectives of this study were to determine the frequency of isolation ofK.ozaenaeat the microbiology laboratory in a tertiary hospital and the scope of diseases associated with it and to characterize its antimicrobial susceptibility pattern.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study analyzed the retrospective data, from 2002 to 2021, on cases with laboratory-confirmed isolation ofK.ozaenaeat a tertiary care hospital. The primary outcome was to identify the scope ofK.ozaenaeinfections and their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns.K.ozaenaeisolation was done by cultivation on microbiological culture media, whereas its identification and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern were performed using either Microscan or Vitek automated systems. Data was gathered and analyzed in Excel. The percentage of resistance was calculated as the number of resistant isolates from the total isolates multiplied by 100. Similarly, the percentage of sensitivity was calculated as the number of sensitive isolates from total isolates multiplied by 100.

RESULTS:

K.ozaenaewas detected in 59 cases during the study period.K.ozaenaewas associated with urinary tract infections (39%), nasal infections (18.6%), other respiratory tract infections including sinusitis, bronchiectasis, and pneumonia (16.9%), and wound infections (15.3%). It was also associated with invasive infections such as bacteremia (3.4%) and abscesses (3.4%).K.ozaenaeshowed susceptibility to multiple antibiotic classes, but was resistant to ampicillin, piperacillin, nalidixic acid, and nitrofurantoin.K.ozaenaeisolates from urinary tract infections had higher antibiotic resistance percentage than isolates from other infections, particularly to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (P= 0.007, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.84–375), ciprofloxacin (P< 0.0001, 95% CI: 4.6–111.2), and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (P< 0.001, 95% CI: 3.1–63.6).

CONCLUSION:

Our data show thatK.ozaenaeis a pathogen with a spectrum of diseases wider than expected and a unique antibiotic susceptibility pattern in urinary tract infections.
Hypertension clinical pathway: Experience of Aseer region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Assiri Ali M.M. , Al-Khaldi Yahia M. , Kaabi Abdu A.A. , Alshehri Ibrahim A.M. , Al-Shahrani Mohammad A.S. , Almalki Abdullah A.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Hypertension (HTN) is a common chronic health problem with many complications and high morbidity rates. This study aimed to describe the HTN pathway, to assess the performance of screening and registration programs, to explore the challenges and suggest solutions for those challenges.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study was conducted in primary care centers in the Aseer region, Saudi Arabia, at the end of 2022. The study consisted of three parts namely: Screening for HTN, registration of known hypertensive patients and opinions of representatives of Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) on challenges to the implementation of HTN pathway and suggestions for overcoming these challenges. Three Google forms were developed by the investigators to achieve the objectives of this study. The first two forms were completed by doctors and nurses at each PHC and reviewed by the leader of HTN pathway, and the third form completed by a representative of each PHC. SPSS version 26 was used for data management and analysis. Chi-square test was used to determine association between categorical variables; binary logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the correlates of being hypertensive and having good control of HTN.

RESULTS:

A total of 159,243 individuals were screened for HTN, 55% of whom were females and 94% were Saudis. The prevalence of HTN was 13%; 70% were overweight or obese and 14% had diabetes. The total registered number of patients was 55,628; 50% had good HTN control. Major challenges were inadequate health coaches, care coordinators, laboratory and radiology facilities, lack of coordination with hospitals, and ineffective appointment system.

CONCLUSION:

This study revealed that the current HTN pathway was successful with regard to screening and registration of patients with HTN. Many challenges need an executive plan with SMART objectives to optimize the care for HTN patients in the region.
Significant differences in the length and weight measurements of Jordanian infants compared to the World Health Organization 2006 growth standards
Authors: Bataineh Lina , Al-Qerem Walid , Jarab Anan , Alasmari Fawaz , Eberhardt Judith
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

In 2006, the World Health Organization (WHO) introduced new growth standards based on data derived globally from optimally nourished breastfed infants. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of implementing WHO growth standards on the growth patterns of Jordanian infants. In addition, it was to ascertain the necessity of establishing country-specific growth standards and charts tailored to Jordanian infants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The data of 102,846 infants (50.1% boys, 49.9% girls) aged 0–24 months, from 115 primary healthcare centers across the country were retrieved from a National E-health Program. Weight and length measurements were analyzed, and age- and sex-specific z-scores were calculated relative to the WHO growth standards. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Mann–Whitney U test was performed to determine significant differences between the measurements for boys and girls in terms of age, length, and weight.

RESULTS:

Jordanian infants exhibited significantly shorter length-for-age measurements than WHO standards with mean z-scores of −0.56 and −0.38, for boys and girls, respectively. Weight-for-age measurements showed a good fit and were comparable to the WHO growth standards for boys (mean z score = −0.05) and girls (mean z score = 0.04). Notably, Jordanian infants displayed higher weight-for-length measurements, with mean z-scores of 0.51 for boys and 0.47 for girls.

CONCLUSION:

The availability of Jordanian-specific growth standards will improve the accuracy of assessing infant growth and enhance the monitoring and evaluation of their health and development.
Isolation and detection of bacterial species on mitis salivarius bacitracin agar from the plaque samples of caries active children
Authors: Bansal Kalpana , Shamoo Azeema , Atif Mohammad , Batra Priyam , Chaudhry Rama
Published: April 2024

Background:

In cariology studies, mitis-salivarius-bacitracin (MSB) agar has been commonly considered as the selective medium for Streptococcus
mutans growth. The present study was the part of a funded project (a noninferiority randomized controlled trial) which compared the efficacy of a plant extract-based mouth rinse with that of a fluoride mouth rinse on the S.
mutans counts of the children.

Aim:

This study aimed to identify the frequency of detection of S.
mutans and nonstreptococcal bacterial species from the dental plaque of caries active children using a combined technique of anaerobic culture and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry.

Settings and Methods:

Caries-active children (8–12 years old) were enrolled from a pediatric dental outpatient department at a tertiary care hospital. From each participant, dental plaque samples were collected from carious surfaces under sterilized conditions and then subjected to anaerobic culture. After 48 h of incubation, the bacterial colonies were isolated by sub-culture and identified by the MALDI-TOF.

Results:

In all, 13 different bacterial species were isolated from the MSB agar medium. Other than S.
mutans species, colonies of bacterial species such as Veillonella
dispar,
Streptococcus
anginosus, Veillonella
parvula, and Streptococcus
gordonii were also frequently observed from the medium.

Conclusions:

The study concluded that several bacterial strains, both streptococcal and nonstreptococcal, could be isolated from the MSB agar medium; hence, this medium should no longer be considered selective medium for the culture of S.
mutans in clinical and epidemiological studies.
Correlation between the middle phalanx of the third finger skeletal maturation staging system and insulin-like growth factor-1 levels among Indian children – A 3-year longitudinal study
Authors: Veena R. , Alle Rajkumar S. , Shanbhog Raghavendra , Prashant Akila
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Tracking insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) level alongside the middle phalanx of the third finger (MP3) staging modification could provide valuable insights into the relationship between hormonal factors and skeletal maturation during different stages of growth. Longitudinal studies indeed play a crucial role in understanding these complex relationships over time, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of how IGF-1 might serve as a marker for pubertal growth stages.

Methodology:

The present longitudinal prospective cohort study was done among 26 boys and 26 girls. For each child, once in every 6 months for 3 years, blood samples (to estimate IGF-1 level) and X-rays of the left hand middle finger were taken. DRG IGF-1 600 Human Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay kit was used for the quantitative measurement of IGF1 from serum. The MP3 stages of the middle phalanx of the middle finger were evaluated using a modified MP3 system. The collected data were subjected to suitable descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results:

The mean IGF1 levels were significantly higher in girls compared to boys across all the stages of MP3 skeletal maturity indicators. However, in both boys and girls, IGF-1 levels showed increasing trends from Stage F to H where it peaked and showed deceleration to Stage I (P< 0.05).

Conclusion:

The observed increase in serum IGF-1 levels during pubertal stages, followed by a decline in late puberty, aligning with the stages of skeletal maturation, suggests a close relationship between hormonal changes and bone development.