bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficiency Benchmarking Through Data Envelopment Analysis
Authors: Potluri Rajasekhara Mouly , Vajjhala Narasimha Rao
Published: January 2024

In the modern era, disruptive technologies, ranging from artificial intelligence to big data analytics and virtual reality to drone technology, have profoundly impacted India's lifestyles and employment dynamics. This chapter deeply explores these innovations' history, meaning, theory, and significance, focusing mainly on their transformative influence on the Indian industries, health, transport, and energy sectors. Beyond just an exploration, this study employs DEA for efficiency benchmarking, offering a structured assessment of how well these sectors have harnessed the potential of disruptive technologies. The analysis underscores the diverse issues, challenges, and opportunities arising from integrating these technologies and the subsequent shifts in employer-employee relationships and challenges posed to governance. Furthermore, the chapter elaborates on the real-world implementations of these technologies and their broader ramifications, including cost reductions, sustainability, and socially responsible practices in the concerned sectors.
Comparison of Cost and Profit Efficiencies of Indian Public Sector Banks in the Post-Reform Period
Authors: Gupta Vipul
Published: January 2024

The chapter aims to analyze and compare the cost and profit efficiency of public sector banks (PSBs) in India after the post-banking sector reforms of 1991. The data was gathered and analyzed from 1995 to 2017, i.e., from the post-liberalization period until the significant State Bank of India merger in 2017. Average profit efficiency (PE) and cost efficiency (CE) scores were analyzed year-wise for each PSB in India. The distribution and median of efficiency scores in two sub-periods were also assessed using non-parametric Friedman's two-way ANOVA and Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The results revealed profit inefficiencies among PSBs in the selected period. Over the whole period, PE is less than the CE scores. The findings also revealed wide variations across public sector banks from 1995 to 2017. Moreover, the PE of PSBs has declined since the banking sector reform in 1991 in India.
Political Apathy as a Challenge of Democratization in Africa
Authors: Usman Hezekiah , Patrick Hosea Olayiwola
Published: January 2024

The place of political participation in the democratization process in Africa necessitates understanding the motivation for participation as an integral component for democracy. For Nigeria and Africa, this is crucial for the emergence of good governance and the development of democratic processes and governance. This chapter explored political participation in Nigeria and the issues of political apathy as a challenge of the democratization process. Using a desktop review technique, the chapter explored the causes of political apathy and its possible effect on Nigeria's democratization process as a template for Africa. While the factors and impacts identified in this chapter for political apathy in Nigeria are not exhaustive, the implication for the democratization process is significant. Therefore, there is a need for all stakeholders, governments, and citizens alike to embrace proactive measures in curtailing political apathy in Nigeria and, by inference, Africa's democratization process.
Continental Integration and Trade in the Southern African Development Community (SADC)
Authors: Tshishonga Ndwakhulu Stephen
Published: January 2024

This chapter is concerned with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and its trade potential to increase continental integration in Africa. The chapter argues that SADC has the potential not only to increase continental integration, but also as the building block for AfCTA to realise its vision of promoting continental economic integration, equitable human development, and advance African institutional development. Regional theory was adopted to comprehend the role, shared interests, challenges, and goals among SADC member countries. The chapter found that SADC region is endowed with natural, cultural, and human resources, but lacks state capacity, cooperation, and integration to optimize such resources. The chapter is qualitative in nature and uses systematic literature review to deliberate on the role and challenges faced by SADC in increasing continental integration and further forge socio-economic development between and within its members.
South Africa's Hegemony and Its Quiet Diplomacy
Authors: Mlambo Daniel Nkosinathi
Published: January 2024

This chapter assesses South Africa's quiet diplomacy in Zimbabwe during the tenure of Thabo Mbeki as president. After the colonial era, hegemonic powers have always been considered critical role-players within their specific continent or regions because of their robust economies, military might, and soft power credentials, abuse, especially from the ruling Zimbabwean African National Union (ZANU – PF) regime. Instead of acting on its neighbour, the Mbeki regime opted for the quiet diplomacy route. With South Africa entering the African political landscape after the apartheid era and becoming a member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), many considered it the driving force regarding the political landscape in Africa, particularly Southern Africa. While the Mandela administration achieved some of this, many eyebrows were raised throughout Mbeki's era, particularly in his quiet diplomacy towards Zimbabwe.
Digital Transformation in Public Administration
Authors: Gomes Jorge Vareda , Romão Mário Batista
Published: January 2024

At a global level, governments are implementing transformation projects and initiatives to respond to a changing society and as part of a drive for efficiency and cost savings. Considering the profile of digital transformation (DT) projects within the context of the Portuguese public administration (PA), the proposal for a framework was developed which contains a set of attributes and criteria to identify the feasibility and adequacy of the projects submitted for evaluation. The study identifies the set of characteristics, critical success factors, challenges, and difficulties of DT projects in this public administration context. A qualitative methodological approach was used, and a single case study strategy was applied. The proposed framework enables a better alignment of strategies, as well as an improved allocation of resources and the consequent improvement of the performance objectives defined by the PA.
Research Ethics Among Undergraduates of the Social Sciences
Authors: Shaikh Shazia Shahab , Chhachhar Abdulrazaque
Published: January 2024

At the beginning of the 21st century, issues concerning the social sciences research design and data collection are dominant. However, social scientists have found some remedies for the pitfalls of post-graduate and graduate students. Although the authors have found published literature at internationally recognized data-based publishers, very little literature reviewed undergraduates in the faculty of social sciences. The purpose of this chapter is to empower undergraduates, and to guide them in research ethics, particularly in the social sciences. Undergraduate students or supervisors who deal with social sciences research ensure to follow the precautions of the ethical principles to increase the benefits of the research for society and country development at large. Overall, undergraduate students need to understand the problem which systematically can be resolved through research. Moreover, in data collection sampling must be identified properly.
Revisiting African Womanhood
Authors: Singha Surjit , Singha Ranjit
Published: January 2024

This chapter highlights African women's lives, experiences, and contributions to the continent's social, economic, and political development by revisiting historical archives about African womanhood. The chapter provides critical insights into the diversity and complexity of women's experiences in pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial contexts by examining historical sources such as oral histories, archival documents, and secondary literature. The chapter explores topics including women's roles in pre-colonial societies, the impact of colonialism on women's lives, women's activism in nationalist movements, and the challenges and opportunities of post-colonial African femininity. It also emphasizes the impact of gendered power relations on women's lives and women's strategies to resist and challenge these power dynamics. In conclusion, the chapter demonstrates the significance of emphasizing women's voices and perspectives in writing African history and its implications for current efforts to advance gender equality and social justice in Africa and beyond.
Critical Success Factors (CSFs) of Industry Centre of Excellence (ICoE) Performance at Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) Technical and Vocational Education
Authors: Razali Rozita , Ismail Syuhaida , Fathi Mohamad Syazli
Published: January 2024

Industry collaboration between technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions and industries is essential for Malaysia to reach 35% of its labour force being high-skilled workers. Hence, this chapter will identify the challenges that obstruct ICoE from performing at MARA institutions and propose the critical success factors (CSFs) of ICoE's good performance as per industry standards at TVET institutions. The systematic literature review (SLR) reveals that the management of the ICoE is confronted with significant obstacles, primarily stemming from diverse organisational approaches that can potentially complicate the functions of the ICoE. In addition, the talent in the focus area of ICoE is among the CSFs to ensure ICoE performance's success. Therefore, to ensure the successful performance of ICoE, TVET institutions have to prepare the expertise and choose the focus area wisely before establishing ICoE to attract industries collaboration.
Queer International Students Navigating Policies at Home and Abroad
Authors: Campbell Anne , Townsend Quintessence , Ruhno Marissa
Published: January 2024

This chapter explores the challenges and expectations imposed on queer international students in the U.S. by focusing on policies. These policies include those which influence queer international students' activities and choices before, during, and after U.S. education. There is a particular emphasis on students from the nearly 70 countries where LGBTQIA+ identities and behaviors are not broadly protected by the government, some of which send the largest number of international students to the United States, such as China, India, and South Korea. The goal of this chapter is to provide a survey of the impact of these policies on LGBTQ+ international students, towards the goal of improving responsibility, care, and awareness of working with this population in higher education. It concludes with concrete recommendations for future research and practice.
A Place for Us
Authors: Beal Jesse
Published: January 2024

Gender and sexuality resource centers (GSRCs) are identity-based resource centers focused on LGBTQIA2S+ identities and communities. This chapter employs a critical organizational theory lens to explore how genderism and cisheterosexism serve as organizing principles for higher education institutions (HEIs). Through the organizational placement and resourcing (financial and human resources) of GSRCs, HEIs allow GSRCs to exist as long as they serve as symbols of the inclusiveness of the organization and validation of the organization's benevolence.
Appraising the Ecotourism Potentials of the Knuckles forest Reserve to Preserve its Sustainability
Authors: Ruzaik Fareena
Published: January 2024

Ecotourism is nature-based visits with the anticipation of enjoying natural attractions, learning, education, environmental protection and maintaining sustainability. The Knuckles Mountain Range was acknowledged as a ‘world’s heritage’, considering its historical value, geological and geomorphological features, ecological diversity and richness of biodiversity within the area of 160-170 km2. This study was carried out with the objective of assessing its existing potentials to promote ecotourism, while preserving its sustainability. Both primary and secondary data sources have been used for this study, following the quantitative and qualitative approaches and applied a purposive sampling mechanism to identify the forest plot for this study and convenient sampling method for interviewing visitors. The computer software was used to process the coded data and accommodated traditional statistical tools to analyze the same. The results revealed that the existing potential for ecotourism development in the area was under-utilized and 90% of the identified challenges, such as deforestation, solid waste disposal (plastics and polythene) and clearing forest area for cardamom/ginger cultivation etc., have been observed at an extensive level, which are due to the human activities. According to the surveyed, 70% at Pitawalpatana, 65% at Maningala and 75% at Ilukkumbura disclosed that the said area was a very attractive and interesting place for nature lovers. The local visitor expresses that 70% of them are satisfied with nature-based attractions in the forest, 56% desire to visit to the Knuckles again, 42% has a moderate desire to visit again, 8% states that they do not like to visit again and 49% states that they have visited Knuckles more than one time. It is recommended to formulate an integrated forest management system to mitigate and manage challenges and to promote ecotourism in the Knuckles area in a sustainable manner with the collaboration of reverent stakeholders.
Factors Associated with the Discrepancy between Exercise Capacity and Airflow Limitation in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Kim Tae Hoon , Heo I Re , Kim Na Young , Park Joo Hun , Yoon Hee-Young , Jung Ji Ye , Ra Seung Won , Jung Ki-Suck , Yoo Kwang Ha , Kim Ho Cheol
Published: January 2024

Background: Exercise capacity is associated with lung function decline in chronicobstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients, but a discrepancy between exercisecapacity and airflow limitation exists. This study aimed to explore factors contributingto this discrepancy in COPD patients.Methods: Data for this prospective study were obtained from the Korean COPD SubgroupStudy. The exercise capacity and airflow limitation were assessed using the6-minute walk distance (6-MWD; m) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1).Participants were divided into four groups: FEV1 >50%+6-MWD >350, FEV1 >50%+6-MWD ≤350, FEV1 ≤50%+6-MWD >350, and FEV1 ≤50%+6-MWD ≤350 and their clinicalcharacteristics were compared.Results: A total of 883 patients (male:female, 822:61; mean age, 68.3±7.97 years) wereenrolled. Among 591 patients with FEV1 >50%, 242 were in the 6-MWD ≤350 group, andamong 292 patients with FEV1 ≤50%, 185 were in the 6-MWD >350 group. The multipleregression analyses revealed that male sex (odds ratio [OR], 8.779; 95% confidence interval[CI], 1.539 to 50.087; p=0.014), current smoking status (OR, 0.355; 95% CI, 0.178to 0.709; p=0.003), and hemoglobin levels (OR, 1.332; 95% CI, 1.077 to 1.648; p=0.008)were significantly associated with discrepancies in exercise capacity and airflow limitationin patients with FEV1 >50%. Meanwhile, in patients with FEV1 ≤50%, diffusioncapacity of carbon monoxide (OR, 0.945; 95% CI, 0.912 to 0.979; p=0.002) was significantlyassociated with discrepancies between exercise capacity and airflow limitation.Conclusion: The exercise capacity of COPD patients may be influenced by factors otherthan airflow limitation, so these aspects should be considered when assessing andtreating patients.
CTLA-4 Checkpoint Inhibition Improves Sepsis Survival in Alcohol-Exposed Mice
Authors: Paterson Cameron W , Fay Katherine T , Chen Ching-Wen , Klingensmith Nathan J , Gutierrez Melissa B , Liang Zhe , Coopersmith Craig M , Ford Mandy L
Published: January 2024

Chronic alcohol use increases morbidity and mortality in the setting of sepsis. Both chronic alcohol use and sepsis are characterized by immune dysregulation, including overexpression of T cell coinhibitory molecules. We sought to characterize the role of CTLA-4 during sepsis in the setting of chronic alcohol exposure using a murine model of chronic alcohol ingestion followed by cecal ligation and puncture. Results indicated that CTLA-4 expression is increased on CD4+ T cells isolated from alcohol-drinking septic mice as compared with either alcohol-drinking sham controls or water-drinking septic mice. Moreover, checkpoint inhibition of CTLA-4 improved sepsis survival in alcohol-drinking septic mice, but not water-drinking septic mice. Interrogation of the T cell compartments in these animals following pharmacologic CTLA-4 blockade, as well as following conditional Ctla4 deletion in CD4+ T cells, revealed that CTLA-4 deficiency promoted the activation and proliferation of effector regulatory T cells and the generation of conventional effector memory CD4+ T cells. These data highlight an important role for CTLA-4 in mediating mortality during sepsis in the setting of chronic alcohol exposure and may inform future approaches to develop targeted therapies for this patient population.
Persistence of a high prevalence of anemia in rural areas among pregnant women in Burkina Faso. A cross‑sectional study
Authors: Garanet Franck , Sampabré Gerard , Tinta A. Almame
Published: January 2024

Despite WHO recommendations to reduce the global prevalence of anemia among women of reproductive age by 2025, anemia remains a truly global public health problem, especially among pregnant women. The objective of our study was to examine the relationship between anemia and the place of residence in pregnant women. This cross‑sectional study was conducted in six health facilities between December 2018 and March 2019. Anemia was diagnosed using HemoCue HB 301 and a hemoglobin concentration 11 g/dl was classified as anemic. Adjusted logistic regression analysis was performed to examine relation between anemia and the place of residence in pregnant women. A total of 1027 pregnant women were included in the study. The average age of females was 25.79±6.02 years. The prevalence of anemia was 57.2% (585/1023). In logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, wealth, education and parity, women living in rural areas were more likely to be anemic compared to women living in urban areas (ORa=1.33; 95% CI [1.01‑1,74]. Rural women are more likely to be anemic. Strategies to prevent anemia among pregnant women need to be strengthened in rural areas.
Learning about perspectives of patients and colleagues through qualitative research
Authors: Bareiss Warren
Published: January 2024

Welcome to the third issue, Volume 7, of Qualitative Research in Medicine & Healthcare. As usual, articles demonstrate the immense range of applications for qualitative scholarship in the field of healthcare. Before introducing this issue’s articles, I want to welcome some new folks to QRMH. Dr. Paula Hopeck and Dr. Elizabeth Spradley joined our editorial board. Dr. Hopeck teaches at Commonwealth University in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania where she researches end-of-life issues and trains nursing students as they transition into the nursing profession. Dr. Spradley teaches courses in communication and medical humanities at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacagdoches, Texas. Dr. Spradley has published widely on narrative and identity, instructional communication, and work-from-home issues. Also, we have our first-ever book review editor: Dr. Michelle Walter, teaching specialist and lecturer at the Centre for the Study of Higher Education at the University of Melbourne. Dr. Walter’s research examines mental illness from the perspective of poststructural feminist theory. Dr. Walter contributed this issue’s book review on mental health in higher education. [...]
A review of waste management in the potash industry, and options for decommissioning and abandonment of potash tailings piles
Authors: Hart R T
Published: January 2024

World production and reserves of potash, as well as processing and environmental concerns are outlined to provide the necessary background for the consideration of short and long term waste management needs in the potash industry. Long term waste management
options including sale of waste salt, underground and deep well disposal, abandonment and encapsulating of the salt tailings are discussed.
A rare case of acute pancreatitis due to scrub typhus: A case report
Authors: Badal Nitesh , Phukan Chiranjita , Kalita Bipul Chandra , Dutta Sangitanjan
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Scrub typhus is an acute febrile sickness, also known as tsutsugamushi fever, which is brought on by Orientia tsutsugamushi, a tiny, obligate intracellular gram-negative bacteria whose polysaccharides have an antigenic connection to proteus OX-K, which is utilised in serologic tests to confirm scrub typhus. The larva of trombiculid mites (chiggers), which are almost minute and frequently brilliantly colourful (red), bite people to transmit O. tsutsugamushi. The signs of onset include fever, headache, myalgia, coughing, and gastrointestinal symptoms after an incubation period of 6–21 days. The primary papular lesion, which the chigger fed on and can appear anywhere on the body, enlarges, experiences core necrosis, and crusts to create a flat black eschar. Regional lymphadenopathy and later generalised lymphadenopathy can be found. A macular rash may develop on the trunk, and the symptoms gradually worsen. In untreated cases, complications may develop and patient may have meningoencephalitis and at times, multiple cranial nerve deficits.
Blood component therapy in patients having massive obstetric hemorrhage in a tertiary care center in Puducherry
Authors: Anuragaa S. , Chaturvedula Latha , Basavarajegowda Abhishekh
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION:

A proper transfusion protocol must be followed for every patient with massive obstetric hemorrhage (MOH), as each patient may need a different pattern of transfusion support. In this background, it is prudent to understand the current prevalent practices and devise preparatory strategies for managing blood requirements during such scenarios. This study helps us know the pattern and type of blood components given to patients with MOHs.

METHODOLOGY:

This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on patients with a MOH admitted to a single center at a tertiary care teaching hospital in Puducherry between January 2020 and October 2021. During the hospital stay, patient parameters such as diagnosis, obstetric history, blood loss, transfusion of blood products, transfusion reaction, blood group, length of hospital stay, laboratory parameters, and patient vitals and comorbidities were recorded in a predesigned pro forma and tabulated into Excel sheet and analyzed using SPSS software version 19.0.

RESULTS:

Fifty-four patients with MOH were included in our study. The median blood loss was 2.15 L, with a range of 2 L. The mean difference between the baseline and posthemorrhage hemoglobin is 1.7 g/dl. No correlation was observed between the number of packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfused and baseline hemoglobin or between random donor platelets (RDP) transfusion and baseline platelet count. The median number of hospital stays was 10 days, ranging from 7 to 14.5 days. Eleven (20.38%) patients had a hysterectomy done to control bleeding. The remaining 43 patients were managed successfully by other measures such as medical management, compressive surgical suturing, and arterial ligation. Forty-eight (88.9%) patients survived, and 6 (11.1%) patients expired.

CONCLUSION:

The percentage of RDP and cryoprecipitate transfused to the patients was less than PRBC and fresh frozen plasma (FFP). The FFP-to-PRBC ratio was 2. Regular transfusion audits must be conducted to assess the flaws and improve current strategies.
Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn due to minor blood group alloimmunization in a mother of sickle cell disease with multiple alloantibodies
Authors: Varghese Stephy , Prakash Satya , Mukherjee Somnath , Sahu Ansuman , Mishra Debasish
Published: January 2024

Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn is due to maternal IgG antibodies that transport through the placenta and destroy neonatal red cells. A mismatch of antigens between mother and fetus causes isoimmunization resulting in mild anemia, which may progress to fetal hydrops in the intrauterine period and severe hyperbilirubinemia to kernicterus in neonates. The isoimmunization is mainly caused by Rh-D and ABO antibodies. In this case report, we found neonatal hyperbilirubinemia due to the presence of anti-c alloantibody previously developed in a sickle cell disease (SCD) pregnant female. It is an unusual case of fetal hyperbilirubinemia due to minor blood group alloimmunization in a SCD needing exchange transfusion. Multi-transfused patients should be counseled regarding the need to perform antibody screening frequently before pregnancy for better treatment of both mother and child.
Quality assessment of platelet concentrates prepared by platelet-rich plasma, buffy-coat, and apheresis methods in a tertiary care hospital in South India: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Toora Esha , Kulkarni Rajendra G. , Manivannan Prabhu , Sastry Apurba Sankar , Basavarajegowda Abhishekh , Sahoo Dibyajyoti
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION:

In blood banking and transfusion medicine, it is of paramount importance to improve transfusion safety and provide a higher quality of product to maximize the therapeutic outcomes and minimize the risk of developing transfusion-associated complications for patients receiving a blood transfusion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the department of transfusion medicine in a tertiary care hospital of South India from February 2019 to December 2020. The primary objective of the study was to assess the quality of platelet concentrates (PC) prepared by platelet-rich plasma (PRP), buffy-coat (BC), and apheresis method. A total of 760 PCs were subjected to quality assessment, among which 124 were PRP-PC, 176 were BC-PC, and 460 were single donor platelet (SDP).

RESULTS:

The total percentage of platelets meeting all the six quality control parameters in PRP, BC and SDP was 78.23%, 81.81%, and 89.96%, respectively. Apheresis PCs showed a significantly higher platelet concentration per µL on comparison with whole-blood-derived platelets. BC-PCs were found to be better than PRP-PC with regard to lower white blood cell (WBC) contamination (P < 0.05) and red blood cell (RBC) contamination (P < 0.01). No statistically significant difference was found with regard to platelet yield, volume, swirling, and pH.

CONCLUSION:

Ex vivo quality of PCs prepared by BC-PC, PRP-PC, and apheresis-PC fulfilled the desired quality control parameters. BC-PC was better than PRP-PC in terms of lesser WBC and RBC contamination and comparable in terms of volume, platelet yield, swirling, and pH. Apheresis PCs showed a higher platelet concentration per microliter on comparison with whole-blood-derived platelets; hence in a blood center where facilities for collection of apheresis product are available, SDPs should be the choice of platelet transfusion.
Indian clinical practice consensus guidelines for the management of very advanced head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma: Update 2022
Authors: Noronha Vanita , Prabhash Kumar , Babu K Govind , Chaturvedi Pankaj , Kuriakose Moni , Birur Praveen , Anand Anil K. , Kaushal Ashish , Mahajan Abhishek , Syiemlieh Judita , Singhal Manish , Gairola Munish , Ramachandra Prakash , Goyal Sumit , John Subashini , Nayyar Rohit , Patil Vijay M. , Rao Vishal , Roshan Vikas , Rath G.K.
Published: January 2024

The management of recurrent or metastatic head-and-neck cancers is evolving. Promising novel immunotherapies and targeted therapies have led to a paradigm shift in the management of very advanced disease. Single-agent systemic therapy including cisplatin/carboplatin/paclitaxel/docetaxel/5-florouracil/methotrexate/cetuximab/gemcitabine/capecitabine or combination chemotherapy may be considered. Immunotherapy alone or in combination with chemotherapy has improved survival and should be considered. Oral metronomic chemotherapy with or without immunotherapy also improves oncologic outcomes. The challenges associated with the disease may be resolved by using an integrated approach of combining locoregional and systemic therapies. Salvage treatments like re-radiation or surgery are useful for the management of locoregional recurrences.
Indian clinical practice post-treatment imaging guidelines for head-and-neck cancers
Authors: Mahajan Abhishek , Chakrabarty Nivedita , Prabhash Kumar , Chaturvedi Pankaj , Babu K Govind
Published: January 2024

Expected post-treatment (post-surgery, post-radiotherapy, post-chemoradiotherapy, post-neoadjuvant chemotherapy/immunotherapy) changes and related complications, pose challenges at follow-up imaging of head-and-neck cancers including the neck nodes, which have implications on further management. Hence, it is pertinent to establish post-treatment head-and-neck imaging guidelines, including the proper choice of modality, protocol, and timing of scan post-treatment, for the detection of recurrence or response assessment. Though international guidelines exist, there are no such standardized guidelines in the country, hence we propose post-treatment head-and-neck cancer imaging guidelines, including surveillance guidelines for neck nodes, to bring about uniformity in post-treatment imaging of head-and-neck cancers in the country.
The effect of a barley-based food product in alleviating knee osteoarthritis discomfort symptoms in Egyptian female patients
Authors: Fouad Suzanne , Monir Rasha , Ibrahim Fatma A. , Hussein Ahmed M.S. , Shafei Heba F. , El Gendy Aliaa
Published: January 2024

Background/aim

Osteoarthritis is a common joint condition that causes cartilage to erode. There are numerous conventional treatments available, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines and pharmaceuticals containing glucosamine; however, taking them can result in serious side effects. The aim of this study was to prepare barley-based food product enriched with ginger, curcumin, garlic powder, and onion powder and to evaluate the effect of consumption of the prepared macaroni for 2 months, in alleviating knee osteoarthritis discomfort symptoms in female patients complaining of grade 2–3 knee osteoarthritis.

Patients and methods

The present study enrolled 51 Egyptian middle age females patients with a mean age of 51±8.37 years, diagnosed with bilateral grade two to three knee osteoarthritis were recruited from the National Research Centre rheumatology and rehabilitation clinic. Anthropometric measurements and blood samples were collected after 8 weeks of daily barley based macaroni supplementation (75 grams raw). Serum levels of IL1β, IL4 and IL6 were measured using Elisa techniques, while Total Antioxidant Capacity, Malondialdehyde, and Glutathione S-transferase were measured by the colorimetric methods.

Results

Chemical composition analysis of the prepared barley-based macaroni demonstrated a decrease in total carbohydrate content and an increase in crude fiber, protein, and fat content compared with the control (semolina wheat-based macaroni); 100 grams of the prepared uncooked barley macaroni provided 342.46 Kcal. The reevaluation of the anthropometric parameters after 8 weeks of daily macaroni supplementation denoting improvement without statistical significance (P>0.05), and the clinical characteristics of knee joint osteoarthritis (Lequesne Index, WOMAC score, and Timed Up and Go test) significantly improved which meant less pain and stiffness. The serum pro-inflammatory cytokines IL1β and IL6 declined significantly and the serum anti-inflammatory cytokine IL4 raised significantly (P≤0.05), besides, barley based macaroni supplementation significantly improved the antioxidant status, which was achieved through the rise of serum Total Antioxidant Capacity and the decline of Malondialdehyde and Glutathione S-transferase activity (P≤0.05).

Conclusion

Barley-based prepared macaroni enriched with curcumin and ginger must be considered in alleviating the severity of knee OA symptoms to aid patients in getting their life back to near normal.
Evaluation of the effect of bimaxillary, mandibular setback, and advancement surgeries on the pharyngeal airway space and positions of the hyoid bone, soft palate, and tongue
Authors: Jain Isha , Pradhan Tejashri , Sethia Aarti
Published: January 2024

Introduction: This study aims to assess the postoperative changes in the pharyngeal airway space and the positions of the hyoid bone, soft palate, and tongue after mandibular advancement, mandibular setback, and bimaxillary surgeries. It also aims to compare the effects of mandibular setback and bimaxillary surgeries in the treatment of skeletal Class III patients. Materials and method: Lateral cephalograms of the patients were taken preoperatively and in a period of 3 months postoperatively on 21 subjects (3 groups, 7 patients each) who underwent mandibular setback surgery, bimaxillary surgery for Class III correction, and mandibular advancement surgery, respectively. Pre- and postoperative evaluation of skeletal and soft tissue landmarks were conducted to study the dimensions of the pharyngeal airway space and the position of the hyoid bone, soft palate, and tongue. Results: A significant increase in the oropharyngeal airway was observed after mandibular advancement surgeries, with an uprighting of the soft palate and anterior positioning of the tongue. In the mandibular setback group, the nasopharyngeal airway dimension increased significantly, and the hyoid bone was repositioned posteroinferiorly with posterior movement of the tongue. After bimaxillary surgery in Class III subjects, the nasopharyngeal airway space increased significantly associated with postural changes in the soft palate. Conclusion: Mandibular advancement surgeries can provide conditions for increased airway patency. With regard to the PAS, in Class III patients, maxillary advancement should be preferred to mandibular setback. When mandibular setback is indispensable, the association of movements in bimaxillary surgery can neutralize or minimize the effects of the setback.
Robust Control System for DFIG-Based WECS and Energy Storage in reel Wind Conditions
Authors: Hamid Chojaa , Aziz Derouich , Zamzoum Othmane , El Idrissi Abderrahman
Published: January 2024

This research work focuses on addressing the challenges of controlling a wind energy conversion system (WECS) connected to the grid, particularly when faced with variable wind speed profiles. The system consists of a Doubly-Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) connected to the grid through an AC/DC/AC converter, along with a Li-ion battery storage system connected to the Back-to-Back converter DC link via a DC/DC converter. The non-linearity and internal parametric variation of the wind turbine can negatively impact energy production, battery charging performance, and battery lifespan. To overcome these issues, the study proposes a robust control approach called Integral action Sliding Mode Control (ISMC) to enhance the dynamic performance of the WECS based on DFIG. Additionally, the battery charging and discharging controllers play a crucial role in efficiently distributing power to the grid and storage unit based on the battery's state of charge, extracted energy, and power injected into the grid. Two current regulation modes, buck charging and boost discharging, are employed to ensure proper energy distribution. Furthermore, a storage system energy management algorithm is implemented to ensure battery safety during one of the charging modes. The effectiveness and robustness of the proposed control method were validated through simulations of a 1.5 MW wind power conversion system using Matlab/Simulink. The results confirmed the method's efficiency and efficacy.
Real-Time Co-Simulation for the Analysis of Cyber Attacks Impact on Distance Relay Backup Protection
Authors: Boumkheld Nadia , Deconinck Geert , Loenders Rick
Published: January 2024

Smart Grid is a cyber-physical system that incorporates Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) into the physical power system, which introduces vulnerabilities to the grid and opens the door to cyber attacks. Wide area protection is one of the most important smart grid applications that aims at protecting the power system against faults and disturbances, which makes it an attractive target to cyber attacks, aiming at compromising the reliability of the power system. Understanding the interaction between the cyber and physical components of the smart grid and analyzing the damage that cyber-attacks can do to wide area protection is very important as it helps in developing effective mitigation approaches. This paper evaluates the impact of cyber attacks on a wide area distance relay backup protection scheme in real-time, through the development of a co-simulation platform based on Real Time Digital Simulator (RTDS) and network simulator 3 (NS3) and using the IEEE-14 bus power system model.
Comparison of Three Methods to Extract Plasmodium falciparum DNA from Whole Blood and Dried Blood Spots
Authors: Thongseesuksai Thaksaporn , Boonmars Thidarut , Laummaunwai Porntip
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of three DNA extraction methods: the GF-1 Blood DNA Extraction Kit (GF-1 BD Kit), which employs a spin column along with lysing and washing buffers; the tris-ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and proteinase K (TE-pK) method, which utilizes a combination of TE buffer and proteinase K for cell lysis; and DNAzol® Direct (DN 131), a single reagent combined with heating for the extraction process. Plasmodium falciparum DNA was extracted from both whole blood and dried blook spots (DBSs), with consideration of DNA concentration, purity, cost, time requirement, and limit of parasite detection (LOD) for each method. The target gene in this study was 18S rRNA, resulting in a 395-bp product using specific primers. In the comparative analysis, the DN 131 method yielded significantly higher DNA quantities from whole blood and DBSs than the GF-1 BD Kit and TE-pK methods. In addition, the DNA purity obtained from whole blood and DBSs using the GF-1 BD Kit significantly exceeded that obtained using the TE-pK and DN 131 methods. For LOD, the whole blood extracted using the DN 131, GF-1 BD Kit, and TE-pK methods revealed 0.012, 0.012, and 1.6 parasites/µL, respectively. In the case of DBSs, the LODs for the DN 131, GF-1 BD Kit, and TE-pK methods were 1.6, 8, and 200 parasites/µL, respectively. The results revealed that the TE-pK method was the most cost-effective, whereas the DN 131 method showed the simplest protocol. These findings offer alternative approaches for extracting Plasmodium DNA that are particularly well-suited for large-scale studies conducted in resource-limited settings.
Gut Microbiome Diversity and Antimicrobial Resistance After a Single Dose of Oral Azithromycin in Children: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Doan Thuy , Liu Zijun , Sié Ali , Dah Clarisse , Bountogo Mamadou , Ouattara Mamadou , Coulibaly Boubacar , Kiemde Dramane , Zonou Guillaume , Nebie Eric , Brogdon Jessica , Lebas Elodie , Hinterwirth Armin , Zhong Lina , Chen Cindi , Zhou Zhaoxia , Porco Travis , Arnold Benjamin F. , Oldenburg Catherine E. , Lietman Thomas M.
Published: January 2024

Mass antibiotic distribution to preschool children resulted in alterations of the gut microbiome months after distribution. This individually randomized, placebo-controlled trial evaluated changes in the gut microbiome and resistome in children aged 8 days to 59 months after one dose of oral azithromycin in Burkina Faso. A total of 450 children were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to either placebo or azithromycin. Rectal samples were collected at baseline, 2 weeks, and 6 months after randomization and subjected to DNA deep sequencing. Gut microbiome diversity and normalized antimicrobial resistance determinants for different antibiotic classes were evaluated. Azithromycin decreased gut bacterial diversity (Shannon P < 0.0001; inverse Simpson P < 0.001) 2 weeks after treatment relative to placebo. Concurrently, the normalized abundance of macrolide resistance genetic determinants was 243-fold higher (95% CI: 76-fold to 776-fold, P < 0.0001). These alterations did not persist at 6 months, suggesting that disruptions were transient. Furthermore, we were unable to detect resistance changes in other antibiotic classes, indicating that co-resistance with a single course of azithromycin when treated at the individual level was unlikely.
Seatback Failures and Human Tolerance in Severe Rear Impacts
Authors: Thorbole Chandrashekhar
Published: January 2024

Seatback and head restraints are the primary restraining devices in rear-impact collisions. The seatback failures expose front seat occupants to dive deep into the rear compartment survival space. Furthermore, it allows the occupants to get in a position with lower spinal tolerance to the impact direction.

This paper employs sled tests to demonstrate the dangers of seatback failures in severe rear impact by allowing the occupants to orient their spine in its lowest tolerance zone to the impact direction. Furthermore, the sled test shows the potential of head pocketing phenomena and torso augmentation producing compressive cervical spine loading enough to cause first-order neck buckling. Finally, the results of collapsing seatback dynamics are compared to the strong seatback performance by conducting a similar test with a strong ABTS seatback.

The study demonstrates that the strong seatbacks in severe rear impacts produce favorable outcomes while keeping the occupant in their higher spinal tolerance zone to the impact direction.
Foam and FRP Sheets Packaging for Headliner Stiffness at Curtain Airbag Area
Authors: D Gowtham , L Dharshan , Bornare Harshad , Ritesh Kakade , Deoli Manish , Vadla Vilas , Kakani Phani Kumar
Published: January 2024

As we all know, automotive headliners are an essential component of any car’s interior as they cover all the internal components and provide a clean and finished look. Headliners not only increase the aesthetic appeal of a car’s interior, but also acts as an insulation and sound absorption source. As per the latest Government norms, Curtain Airbag (henceforth called as CAB) has been made mandatory and this change calls for the corresponding changes in the Headliner packaging of all passenger vehicles. In general, curtain air-bag deployment calls for a twist open of Headliner at lateral sides (a portion below Hinge-line) during the deployment. This enables the inflated airbag to flow inside the passenger cabin to protect the passenger from any injury. Conventionally no components are packaged below the hinge-line area of headliner to avoid obstruction for CAB deployment and any part fly-off concerns. For this reason, no foams/components are kept below the hinge-line region of the headliner. In this paper we are discussing the pros of introducing the Polyurethane (henceforth called as PU) foams below the hinge-line without hampering the CAB deployment criteria.

This paper also dwells upon the characteristic and type of the foams that need to be used to serve the purpose. These foams have been specifically designed to increase the stiffness and solidity of Headliner at all joinery/interface areas without any compromise on the CAB deployment requirements mandated by ARAI*. Height and the width of the foams are optimized to act as a guide for deployment rather than obstructing it.
Lane Change Conflict Analysis of Camera Based Side-View Systems
Authors: Guduri Balachandar , Llaneras Robert
Published: January 2024

The recent progress in camera-based technologies has prompted the development of prototype camera-based video systems, intended to replace conventional passenger vehicle mirrors. Given that a significant number of collisions during lane changes stem from drivers being unaware of nearby vehicles, these camera-based systems offer the potential to enhance safety. By affording drivers a broader field of view, they facilitate the detection of potential conflicts. This project was focused on analyzing naturalistic driving data in support of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 111 regulatory endeavors. The goal was to assess the effectiveness and safety compatibility of prototype camera-based side-view systems as potential replacements for traditional side-view mirrors. The method employed involved extracting radar data from instances of lane changes conducted by 12 drivers for two pick-up trucks includes 10018 signal-indicated lane changes performed at speeds consistent with highway travel in a naturalistic driving study. Among these, 5029 lane changes were carried out using camera-based displays. The study delved into the influence of camera-based systems on lane change behavior, particularly examining lane change conflicts using time-to-collision data obtained from radar readings. The objective was to assess their impact on safety measures, such as vehicle detection, distance, closing speeds, and conflicts. These assessments spanned a range of conditions, including both daylight and nighttime operations. Upon analyzing the results, no compelling evidence emerged to indicate that the adoption of camera-based systems had a detrimental effect on lane change performance, leading to riskier lane changes in comparison to the traditional mirror systems.
Quantification of Alertness and Evaluation Method for Vision Based Driver Drowsiness and Alertness Warning System
Authors: Balasubrahmanyan Chappagadda , Akbar Badusha A , Viswanatham Satish
Published: January 2024

The paper talks about Quantification of Alertness for vision based Driver Drowsiness and Alertness Warning System (DDAWS). The quantification of alertness, as per Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS), reads the basic input of facial features & behaviour recognition of driver in a standard manner. Although quantification of alertness is inconclusive with respect to the true value, the paper emphasised on systematic validation process of the system covering various scenarios in order to evaluate the system’s functionality very close to the reality. The methodology depends on definition of threshold values of blink and head pose. The facial features are defined by number of blinks with classification of heavy blink and light blink and head pose in (x, y, z) directions. The Human Machine Interface (HMI) warnings are selected in the form of visual and acoustic signals. Frequency, Amplitude and Illumination of HMI alerts are specified. The protocols and trigger functions are defined and KSS stage is calculated for selected duration of time and frames of data covering demographics of people, road types, weather conditions and human behavioural actions. Multiple iterations of threshold values are conducted for test, the outcomes are listed and results are analysed. In order to enhance the system’s robustness and reliability of the obtained results, the paper added provision of secondary strategies based on vehicle metrics like Standard Lane Deviation Laterally (SDLAT), Yaw rate, latest activation of controls, reversal steering correction rate etc. The paper concludes with the threshold value of eye blink, HMI warning, results of hybrid approach of driver drowsiness and alertness warning system and discussed the scope of improvement.