bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La Russie en jugement : une enquête d’opinion européenne après le coup d’État de Stolypin en 1907
Authors: Berelowitch Wladimir
Published: November 2024

L’article est consacré à une source inédite datant de juin-septembre 1907 : il s’agit des 53 réponses, écrites par une série de personnalités de France, d’Allemagne, d’Italie et d’autres pays européens, à deux questions (ou « enquête ») qui leur étaient adressées par Salomon Pozner, éditeur de La Correspondance russe à Paris. Ils y exprimaient leurs opinions sur le « coup d’État » de Stolypin du 3 juin (a.s.) dissolvant la Seconde Duma. L’article vise à étudier d’abord le spectre politique, social et culturel de ces personnalités, dont certaines furent très connues, comme Durkheim, Édouard Vaillant, Vandervelde, Lombroso, Eduard Bernstein, Bjørnson, Anatole Leroy-Beaulieu, etc., de façon à comprendre les choix de Pozner. Puis à analyser le contenu des réponses, dont la diversité tenait à des points de vue différents sur la réalité, ou non, d’une constitution russe et qui reflétaient enfin leurs opinions sur l’avenir européen de la Russie.
Political ecology survey of human-chimpanzee coexistence within postwar Mabi-Yaya Nature Reserve, Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Pruvost Sasha , Leblan Vincent
Published: November 2024

Côte d'Ivoire’s commercial agriculture policy, coupled with military and civil unrest since the late 1990s, has induced very high tensions with conservation agendas, outside of protected areas as well as within them. This situation has made human-chimpanzee coexistence in shared landscapes nearly impossible, except, paradoxically and unsustainably, within protected areas. The Mabi-Yaya Nature Reserve, which was gazetted in 2019 by merging and upgrading two classified forests, is emblematic in this regard. This article examines the recent history of human and chimpanzee presence within the reserve in relation to the country’s political turmoil, based on printed sources and oral accounts as well as a chimpanzee survey. It also questions the motivations for the inhabitants’ unexpected level of support for the reserve reported by a conservation NGO, as well as the reasons for the possibly related absence of large-scale deforestation within it. Given the Ivorian political context, this local support and the persistence of high canopy forest appear to be more related to a local understanding of the protected area as a land-securing device against “outsiders” in a context of strong political and identity crises than to any agreement with conservation policies. This has implications for the conservation of Mabi-Yaya’s remaining chimpanzees and other postwar Ivorian protected areas. It also questions the governance of such a reserve in a political situation still prone to high-level conflicts among neighboring communities.
Faire face à la défaite : perspectives franco-allemandes (1918-1945)
Authors: Beaupré Nicolas , Létang Géraud , Mahé Camille , Vogel Jakob
Published: November 2024

Aux nouvelles perspectives mémorielles qui se dessinent depuis dix ans à la faveur des commémorations des deux conflits mondiaux, revenir à la défaite en tant qu’objet d’histoire comparée et transnationale entre la France et l’Allemagne permet de proposer une grande variété de chemins historiographiques à explorer et de poursuivre la dynamique scientifique en cours. La variété des attitudes individuelles et des comportements collectifs face à la défaite montre que cette dernière n’est pas seulement un évènement politique, social et militaire. Elles enclenchent une production intense d’écrits qui permettent de dépasser le simple clivage vainqueurs/vaincus.
Les tenanciers algériens de cafés-hôtels au prisme des archives policières. L’exemple nantais durant la guerre d’Algérie (1957-1962)
Authors: Gourhand Yvon , Routhiau Henri
Published: November 2024

En exploitant des sources disponibles aux archives départementales de Loire-Atlantique (ADLA), nous avons pu étudier la surveillance et la répression policières des tenanciers de cafés algériens durant la guerre d’indépendance de 1957 à 1962 à Nantes. Ces tenanciers de cafés algériens jouaient un rôle psycho-social auprès de la communauté algérienne, mais ils étaient considérés par les services de police comme des pivots essentiels de la lutte pour l’indépendance, au sein de la Fédération de France du FLN. Ils faisaient alors l’objet d’un harcèlement et d’une répression assidus.
« La nuit passe et ce qui était tant redouté n’advient toujours pas. » La défaite allemande de 1945 à hauteur d’enfants
Authors: Mahé Camille
Published: November 2024

L’historiographie a démontré combien l’expérience de la défaite a pu représenter un effondrement (Zusammenbruch) pour la population allemande en 1945, menant parfois au suicide. Pourtant, les traces laissées par les enfants d’âge scolaire (6-14 ans) ‑ journaux intimes, dessins, lettres, travaux scolaires ‑ dévoilent des vécus à rebours de ceux des adultes, entre soulagement, joie, voire excitation. À partir de ces documents, cet article interroge la capitulation sans condition et l’arrivée des Alliés « à hauteur d’enfants ». Ce faisant, il dévoile la diversité des réactions de la population allemande tout en posant la question du poids de l’endoctrinement nazi auprès d’une population pourtant jugée particulièrement malléable.
« Invaincus dans l’air » ? Les aviateurs allemands face à la défaite (1919-1939)
Authors: Accoulon Damien
Published: November 2024

Les aviateurs bénéficient d’une position privilégiée parmi les combattants allemands de la Grande Guerre. L’élitisme et le relatif individualisme qui caractérisent l’aviation conduisent ces hommes – officiers et sous-officiers, pour l’essentiel – à surestimer leur propre importance, influençant leur réception de la défaite militaire, pourtant réelle. Après 1919, la communauté aéronautique allemande se resserre autour de la mémoire glorieuse du conflit, laquelle devient un argument mobilisé pour contester la défaite et ses conséquences. C’est ainsi que, participant à la mise en cause du nouvel ordre politique, le milieu converge vers la droite radicale dès les années 1920. Cet article propose d’analyser la construction d’une culture de la victoire dans la défaite jusqu’à constituer une « contre-culture de la défaite » par des hommes qui, revendiquant leur différence et leurs succès, s’efforcent d’imposer cette vision au reste du monde.
La défaite à distance ? Radios, rumeurs et angoisses collectives dans le Tchad colonial (juin-juillet 1940)
Authors: Létang Géraud
Published: November 2024

Enjeu de guerre, la circulation des nouvelles (vraies ou fausses) constitue aussi un élément important pour appréhender la temporalité particulière d’une défaite. En juin 1940, dans la colonie française du Tchad, les façons inédites d’apprendre la nouvelle de la défaite provoquent des comportements collectifs chez les autorités françaises qui bouleversent profondément l’encadrement politique, militaire, économique et culturel des populations colonisées. À la modernité de la mobilisation impériale symbolisée par la propagande de guerre diffusée à la radio succèdent les angoisses collectives impliquant le soulèvement des populations africaines et la famine des Européens. Celles-ci provoquent cependant en juillet 1940 l’émergence d’une solidarité impériale entre les colonisateurs du Tchad et les autorités britanniques du Nigeria voisin.
Understanding the Cognitive Constituents of E-Learning
Authors: Sharma Swati , Saxena Deepak Kumar
Published: November 2024

With the rapid development of ICT, E-learning has experienced exponential growth and drastic transformation in past years (Yao et al, 2022). E-learning works on the model of virtual education. There are different formats, like fully online learning, hybrid learning model which uses the combination of in-person and online components, and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) which enable course engagement across the globe. The domain explores innovative pedagogical approaches. This chapter discusses various formats such as fully online courses, blended learning models, and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). It explores innovative pedagogical approaches, popular theories and adaptive technologies to cater to diverse learning styles, based on cognitive science principles. Chapter further highlights e-learning, its growth and transformation due to advancements in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and important theoretical frameworks to understand the various components of e-learning. At the end of this chapter, challenges and future research directions are discussed.
Empowering Educators and Students Through Boundaries
Authors: Lannon Mary K. , Seliskar Holli Vah , White David Alan
Published: November 2024

Setting and maintaining boundaries is critical to any healthy relationship; this is no less true of the relationship between faculty and students. Education aims to empower students by facilitating their development of independent decision-making, critical thinking, problem-solving, time management skills, accountability, and self-efficacy. This can be done by setting boundaries that balance being accessible to students and providing the space for them to learn, explore, and develop independence. Boundaries also empower faculty by helping to reduce stress, avoid burnout, and promote an appropriate work-life balance. The authors explore research on setting boundaries to promote student success, empower faculty, and promote a healthy learning environment. Recommendations are shared on how to set and maintain boundaries between faculty and students regarding classroom expectations, activities, communications, and grading.
Curriculum Design in the Crossroads at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) Boosting Quality Assurance
Authors: Singh Bhupinder , Kaunert Christian
Published: November 2024

Innovation is the key factor boosting economics and international competitiveness, but it takes a long time for a nation to get to the point where innovation becomes the main force. The concept of innovation has to be seen somewhat differently when applied to latecomer nations than it is when applied to leaders. The technology combines textual feedback and machine learning and this approach examines the remarks, viewpoints and assessments of instructors made by students. Also, textual criticism enhances teaching style and provides valuable insights on the effectiveness of instruction. The inputs are recorded by the technology and stored in an authorized database. To assist the teacher see the input, ratings and graphs are provided. This chapter evaluates current econometric research on how changes in IPR policy affect educational growth and comes to research points to the acceleration of education and innovation development with stronger IPR regimes.
Micro-Credentials Establish New Realities in Digital Education
Authors: Stamatakis Antonios , Logothetis Ilias , Petridis Konstantinos , Kalogiannakis Michail , Vidakis Nikolas
Published: November 2024

Micro-credentials are transforming digital education by offering flexible, targeted, and accessible ways for learners to acquire and demonstrate skills. Micro-Credentials are small, specialized certifications following a short learning experience, which recognize the knowledge or skills someone acquires in specific subjects or fields. Since 2011, when the Mozilla Foundation introduced the Open Badges system, the use of Micro-Credentials has grown and is now widely employed by all digital platforms offering distance education (Coursera, edX, Udacity, etc.) to certify learners' knowledge, and they are recognized as additional qualifications by employers. Micro-Credentials are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative or complementary form of education, particularly in fields where skills evolve rapidly, such as technology and digital skills, and represent a significant advancement in the field of non-formal and lifelong learning.
Exploring Factors Influencing the Structure of Micro-Credentials in Distance Learning From Multiple Stakeholders' Perspectives
Authors: Yilmaz Hulya , Yanik Seda
Published: November 2024

Distance learning has become more popular during the COVID-19 years and the micro-credentials (MCs) has been accepted widespread as an alternative to traditional degree programs. Higher Education Institutions play a critical role in the creation of MCs, taking into account the needs of learners and industry requirements. Hence, it is important to understand and develop this field due to the complexity and diversity of factors that influence the structuring of MCs in distance learning. Moreover, different stakeholders have various influences and priorities on the design, implementation, and adoption of MCs. Therefore, this chapter aims to explore the factors influencing the structuring of MCs in distance learning, considering multiple stakeholders' perspectives. Using the MICMAC method, factors are categorized into influential, key, dependent, and autonomous groups, offering a comprehensive factor map. The chapter concludes with recommendations for effectively structuring MCs in distance learning, addressing both challenges and opportunities to enhance their impact and integration.
Exploring the Potential and Future Directions of Micro-Credentials Through the Scenario Archetypes Method
Authors: Kır Şeyda , Yıldırım Hakan , Bozkurt Aras
Published: November 2024

Micro-credentials have emerged as a flexible, skill-based alternative to traditional degrees, meeting the demands of modern education and employment sectors. Using the Four Archetypes Scenario model—continuous growth, collapse, disciplined society, and transformation—this chapter explores their future in higher education. In the continuous growth scenario, micro-credentials integrate with higher education, driving curriculum evolution and industry partnerships. The collapse scenario warns of institutional failures to adapt and employer skepticism, threatening micro-credentials' value. In the transformation scenario, micro-credentials are widely accepted, reshaping higher education by promoting flexibility, upskilling, and lifelong learning. This analysis aims to provide insights into micro-credentials' evolving role in the education landscape, offering a roadmap for their sustainable integration into higher education and industry.
Leveraging AI-Managed Learning Analytics and Micro-Credentials for Enhanced Student Engagement
Authors: Öncü Semiral , Çolakoğlu Merve , Cigdem Harun
Published: November 2024

This chapter explores how the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-managed learning analytics and micro-credentials can enhance student engagement and retention in higher education. The authors analyze the growing role of AI in monitoring student learning behaviors, providing real-time feedback, and enabling personalized interventions. They discuss the potential of micro-credentials, particularly digital badges, to motivate learners by recognizing their accomplishments and encouraging skill development. While these technologies present transformative opportunities, challenges such as data privacy, lack of standardization, and accessibility issues are addressed. The chapter emphasizes the importance of collaboration between educators, technologists, and policymakers to implement these tools equitably and effectively, with a focus on fostering lifelong learning and student success.
Micro-Credentials in Vocational and Professional Training
Authors: Charles Tendai , Zoelfakar Soha , Sebastian Suraj
Published: November 2024

This chapter explores the integration of micro-credentials within vocational and professional training, emphasising the transformative potential when combined with artificial intelligence (AI). Micro-credentials offer flexible, skill-specific certifications that align closely with the evolving demands of the workforce, providing rapid upskilling and targeted competency development. By leveraging AI, these credentials can be enhanced through personalised learning pathways, efficient assessment methods, and secure validation processes. This synergistic approach not only supports lifelong learning and continuous professional development but also addresses the dynamic needs of the 21st-century job market, fostering a more adaptive and skilled workforce.
Integration of Micro-Credentials With Artificial Intelligence in Open Education
Authors: Hassan Sehar un Nisa
Published: November 2024

The global trends in higher education are moving toward skill-based credentials. Micro-credentials and digital badges are the buzzwords to demonstrate the acquisition of industry-specific skills of the candidates. Integration of AI in open education could enhance the deployment of personalized higher education for everyone and can address several challenges related to retention, assessment, and credibility of micro-credentials in open pedagogy. Timely sharing of these credentials across a wide range of international systems through AI will widen the prospects of continuing education and employment for learners. The Middle East is making timely responses to the digitization of education systems. According to some market forecasts, the market for AI tools in the Middle East region will reach nearly eight billion dollars by the year 2027. There are several ethical dilemmas surrounding use of AI in education and micro-credential programs such as data privacy, biasness and fairness, equity in access, accountability, transparency, cultural sensitivity and the impacts on traditional education models and current review therefore stresses the need for comprehensive ethical guidelines and policies in the Middle East region rather blind adoption. The book chapter offers an analysis of the existing scenario, emerging opportunities and challenges and makes specific recommendations to expand and integrate AI tools in open education in the Middle East region.
Redefining Learning Pathways
Authors: Asrifan Andi , Sadaruddin Sadaruddin , Ashar Ashar , Nonci Jusmaniar , Setiawan Trisno , Erniati Erniati
Published: November 2024

AI-enhanced micro-credentials can optimize learning pathways, improve access to education, and boost workforce skills, according to this report. It addresses traditional education delivery model issues and an increasing requirement for lifelong learning. An AI expert system tool called EDMENTUM validates credentials and customizes learning routes in the quasi-experimental study on AI-enhanced micro-credentials and learning efficiency. Discussing micro-credentials history and integration with AI, case examples show their practical use. The document also emphasizes linking education with industrial demands and addressing fairness, access, data privacy, and security issues for policy and practice. AI-enhanced micro-credentials have many benefits, but careful design and execution are needed to maintain data transparency, trust, and management.
Micro-Credentials in Higher Education
Authors: Galvão Ana , Chumbo Isabel , Anes Eugénia
Published: November 2024

The mission of this chapter is to provide a comprehensive overview of the importance and potential of microcredentials in advancing education and professional practice in Gerontology, emphasising the need for an adaptable, competency-oriented educational approach in this vital field. The following objectives are proposed: to reiterate the value of microcredentials as a strategic educational resource to meet the specific demands of Gerontology in higher education and to emphasise the need for a continued commitment to educational innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration to prepare trained gerontologists to meet the challenges of the Decade of Healthy Ageing 2021-2030.
Applications of Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Education
Authors: Soundarya M. , Devapitchai Joel Jebadurai , Krishnakumari S. , Manickam Thirupathi
Published: November 2024

In the rapidly evolving landscape of education, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force, promising to revolutionize the way to teaching and learning. This book chapter presented the applications of AI tools in online education in these online learning environments, the interaction between learners and instructors significantly influences satisfaction and learning outcomes. Therefore, understanding how AI impacts this interaction is crucial for identifying potential challenges and ensuring safe and effective learning environments. Also, this book chapter presented the case studies, success stories, and benefits of AI applications in online education. This chapter will be useful for educational institutions to improve their efficiency with their stakeholders and learners.
Introduction to Transnational Higher Education (TNE)
Authors: Suntharalingam Panchalingam
Published: November 2024

Transnational Higher Education (TNE) encompasses educational programs, services, and institutions operating across international borders. This chapter describes the mission and critical concerns of TNE, highlighting its role in globalising education, promoting cultural exchange, and expanding access to quality higher education. Key topics include the strategic objectives of TNE providers, such as enhancing international cooperation, fostering global competence, and driving economic development in the partner countries. The chapter also addresses significant challenges TNE faces, including quality assurance, regulatory compliance, cultural adaptability, and the impact of geopolitical dynamics on educational partnerships. By exploring these challenges, a comprehensive overview of TNE's potential to reshape global education while scrutinising the complexities of maintaining academic standards and equity. These insights are crucial for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders striving to optimise the benefits and mitigate the risks associated with transnational education initiatives.
Advancing Transnational Education by Integrating Artificial Intelligence Technology and Backward Design Principles in Technical English Curriculum
Authors: Qaralleh Reema , Ahmed Syed Naeem
Published: November 2024

The Technical English curriculum is constantly underrepresented in English for Specific Purposes (ESP) programs (Hyland, 2006). This study investigates using artificial intelligence (AI) technology to develop a backward design curriculum for Technical English in preparatory year programs, targeting the CEFR A2-B1 level. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, using 58 students and seven teachers as participants at a local university. The findings demonstrated a notable enhancement in student learning outcomes through implementing an AI-enhanced curriculum, as seen by considerably higher engagement scores in the experimental group. The thematic analysis revealed themes related to enhanced educational effectiveness, individualized learning, and the difficulties encountered during implementation. The research suggests that instructors should undergo professional development, investment in digital infrastructure, and collaborative curriculum planning should be implemented. The study was done in Saudi Arabia, but its findings may be used in transnational and cross-border contexts.
AI-Powered Task-Based Learning for Cross-Border Higher Education
Authors: Khatoon Rabia
Published: November 2024

The paper explores the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in task-based learning (TBL) in cross-border education, paying close attention to the potential of AI to enhance engagement and learning outcomes. It is, thus, rational from the paper that when AI is integrated with TBL, the outcome of student engagement will improve by 25%, offering personalized experiences that make students adapt themselves according to the needs. Key addressed challenges include cultural sensitivity, data privacy, and the ethical use of AI, whereby the issue of data security had, in turn, raised the eyebrows of the educators. All these are proposed in the study through which equity policy is promoted, established ethical guidelines, and supported international collaboration in emerging trends such as AI-driven personalization and immersive learning environments. In fact, these are going to change global education significantly by preparing students for their connected world.
Cultural Intelligence in the AI Era-Enhancing Transitional Higher Education
Authors: Jaganathan Ramkumar , Rajagopal Sridaran , Rajendran Karthikeyan
Published: November 2024

This chapter examines AI's role in enhancing cultural intelligence in transnational higher education. AI tools personalize learning, enhance cross-cultural communication, and develop responsive curricula. The chapter addresses ethical concerns like data privacy and algorithmic bias while advocating for AI to foster inclusive learning environments. It explores AI's impact on curriculum design, assessment, and professional development, stressing ethical implementation and adaptation. The conclusion forecasts AI's influence on educational practices and cultural diversity appreciation.
Leadership Styles in Medical Education
Authors: Giordano Vincenzo , Pires Robinson Esteves , Labronici Pedro José
Published: November 2024

To work efficiently in healthcare organizations and optimize resources, team members must have a high degree of emotional intelligence, so they can be able to critically agree with their leaders' decisions. Adopting a strategic leadership style has a positive effect on job satisfaction and company performance. In this chapter, we have gathered the conclusions of several studies focused on leadership styles in medical education, summarizing their findings. The characteristics that make up the profile of a good leader and the best leadership styles are presented.
Key Strategies that Promote Emotional Intelligence Among Organizational Leaders in Latin America
Authors: Salcedo Jorge , Gandolfi Franco , Garza Astrid , Martinez Juan Jose
Published: November 2024

For Brackett and Stern (2024) “everyone values Emotional Intelligence, but actually learning the components is another matter entirely” (p. 26). According to Goleman (2020), the components of EI are self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Most effective educators based in Goleman's (2015) view are alike in one crucial way: “they all have a high degree of what it has come to known as emotional intelligence” (p. 1). This book chapter aims to provide a comprehensive guide on the critical factors for effectively designing and implementing an emotional intelligence (EI) training program. The data were collected using a qualitative method. The participants who were purposefully selected for obtaining data were expert practitioners on adult professional development and one expert on EI development. As a result of this study, some of the strategies and aspects recommended to consider within an EI educator training program may be applicable to international leadership as well.
Endophallus inflation: a potential taxonomic tool for the subfamily Scolytinae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Fernández-Campos Alice Nelly , Guzmán-Robles Ana Valeria , Cuéllar-Rodríguez Gerardo , Armendáriz-Toledano Francisco
Published: November 2024

The taxonomy of the subfamily Scolytinae has traditionally been based on external morphological attributes corresponding to the elytral declivity, head, and pronotum. Some traits from the general morphology of the aedeagus and spermatheca have been proposed in scarce genera. In this study, we explore and improve a technique of endophallus inflation to apply it in Scolytinae members and to describe its morphology for the first time in 16 species from Dendroctonus Erichson, Ips DeGeer, and Phloeosinus Chapuis. These taxa display differences in the attachment types of endophallus and two distinct inflation and retraction mechanisms. Our results support the use of the internal sac as a taxonomic feature in Scolytinae because each tribe, genus, and species display a particular morphological pattern. The results also indicate use of the internal sac for Dendroctonus taxonomy supports phylogenetic inferences.
Understanding land use and land cover change in a prolonged conflict affected farming system: the case of Tuban district, Yemen
Authors: Mekonnen Alemu Molla , Gadain Hussein , Libanda Brigadier
Published: November 2024

A growing body of evidence suggests the worsened decline in the productivity of land resources is cascading risks on vulnerable populations in Yemen, but recent research rarely focuses on this geographical area. This study uses the most extended space-based dataset, Landsat, to evaluate land use and land cover change from 1993 to 2023 in Tuban district, a threatened biodiversity hotspot in Yemen. The paper also assessed the drivers of the change and suggested recommendations. Based on the information obtained from the field observations, the study adopted six land use types (annual cropland, perennial farmland, shrubland, riverine trees, settlement, and bare land). Results showed that between 1993 and 2023, the yearly cropland and the riverine vegetation decreased by 30.19% and 52.55%, respectively. Likewise, the shrubland showed a 63.35% decrease. On the other hand, the settlement area and bare land increased by 574.12% and 15.81%, respectively. Population growth, shortage of rain, desert locusts, lack/shortage of agricultural inputs, and the impacts of the ongoing conflict and civil war have contributed to land use and land cover change. To halt the harmful effects of land use and land cover change, awareness development, development of locally adaptive improved seeds, afforestation, and institutional capacity development interventions are suggested as likely solutions.
At risk but not adequately included: People with disabilities’ experience of COVID-19 in Zambia
Authors: Seketi Queen E.C. , Menon Jayasree A. , Michelo Charles , Banks Lena M. , Bond Virginia
Published: November 2024

Background: COVID-19 had an impact on all sections of society, including people with disabilities.Objectives: The authors aimed to explore the needs and experiences of people with disabilities in Zambia during the COVID-19 pandemic.Method: In this hermeneutic phenomenological study, we used a semi-structured interview guide to collect data from a purposive and snowball sample of 40 people with disabilities and their caregivers. The participants were from 11 districts in 6 provinces in Zambia. The in-depth interviews were done between July 2022 and November 2022. Data were managed in NVivo and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.Results: The three themes included: (1) awareness and experience of public health measures on COVID-19 among people with disabilities; (2) experience of othering and stigmatisation as people with disability during the COVID-19 pandemic and (3) experience of COVID-19 symptoms and having COVID-19 among people with disabilities.Conclusion: Interventions were largely unresponsive to the needs of people with disabilities, exacerbating the risk of exposure to infection. In future, adaptations like emergency risk communication in braille, audio and sign language interpretation in adapted communication formats should be made. Further studies are needed to quantify the gaps in access to health, explore policies and strategies to improve health outcomes for people with disabilities in LMICs like Zambia.Contribution: The findings may contribute to the development and enhancement of policies and interventions responsive to the needs of people with disabilities in future pandemics in the Zambian context.
Survival rate of diabetic-related lower extremity amputees in hospitals in the Eastern Cape
Authors: Mgibantaka Aviwe S. , Musekiwa Alfred , Zunza Moleen
Published: November 2024

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global health concern that has greatly affected South Africa. The gap in the current management of DM has resulted in complications such as lower extremity amputations (LEAs) and death. Eastern Cape province reflects this struggle, with disparities in access to healthcare and poor health outcomes. Understanding survival rates and associated factors between the urban Livingstone Hospital and the rural Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital can improve health interventions and outcomes.Objectives: This study compared the survival rate of patients in urban areas and those in rural areas.Method: This retrospective cohort study was conducted in an urban and a rural hospital by reviewing existing medical records of diabetic patients who underwent an LEA between 2016 and 2019.Results: The retrospective cohort study examined 439 diabetic-related LEA cases. This study found that residing in rural areas significantly decreased the risk of mortality by 62% compared with living in the urban areas. Factors such as haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, nephropathy, cardiovascular disease, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), other comorbidities and level of amputation significantly influenced survival probabilities.Conclusion: Survival analysis indicated a significant difference in the 3-year survival probabilities of the two groups, favouring rural residency (p = 0.001). The biggest cause for concern between the two regions was uncontrolled blood glucose levels as this resulted in high mortality rates.Contribution: Insights from this study have shown that introducing podiatry and orthotics at primary healthcare (PHC) could improve foot care and reduce diabetic-related LEAs and mortality.
The experiences of women diagnosed with uterine fibroids in the Kingdom of Eswatini
Authors: Ginindza Vuyisile J. , Shabalala Fortunate S. , Nsibandze Bonisile S. , Nyirenda Makandwe , Ginindza Themba G.
Published: November 2024

Background: Uterine fibroids (UFs) are benign uterine growths that significantly impact women’s daily activities, quality of life, fertility and expenditure.Aim: This study aimed to provide in-depth insights into the lived experiences of women diagnosed with UFs.Setting: The study was conducted in Eswatini health facilities across the four geographic regions.Methods: An explorative qualitative design was used; participants with confirmed UFs diagnoses or surgery related to UFs were purposively recruited for focus group discussions. Data collection was guided by the revised Wilson and Cleary model of health-related quality of life (HRQOL), which was iteratively analysed using Braun and Clark’s thematic analysis framework.Results: Sixty participants with confirmed UFs diagnoses or surgery related to UFs were included in this study. Five themes emerged: awareness of the disease, symptoms experienced, treatment and care, perceptions and beliefs and health-seeking behaviour. Most participants experienced physical symptoms, abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. Among the emotional and psychological consequences experienced by the majority of participants were fear, worry, tension and (perceived) disrupted body image. The majority of the participants lacked knowledge of UFs, and their perceptions and health-seeking behaviour differed.Conclusion: Findings showed that most participants experienced physical, psychological, emotional and social challenges.Contribution: These experiences were influenced by lack of knowledge, symptoms experienced, poor treatment and care and perceptions and beliefs about UFs. Health education, client involvement, early diagnosis and effective treatment are recommended to improve the experiences of UFs.
Congenital unicuspid aortic valve in adults: Minireview and case series
Authors: Anwar Ashraf Mohammed , Alshawkani Hattan H. , Albakri Ibrahim , Almatrafi Saleh J.
Published: November 2024

A unicuspid aortic valve (UAV) in adults is a very rare form of aortic valve (AV) malformation. UAV has two distinct subtypes, acommissural UAV and unicommissural, and can be differentiated by anatomical features, imaging modalities, and clinical presentation. With the development of significant AV lesion (s), surgical or transcatheter intervention will be required. The first part is a summarized review of UAV (anatomical features, clinical presentation, diagnostic modalities, and management). In the second part, we present a series of four patients diagnosed with UAV (3 unicommissural and 1 acommissural). The first case underwent balloon aortic valvuloplasty during childhood and surgical AV replacement later, with the progression to severe aortic stenosis (AS). The second case underwent a Ross procedure. The third and fourth cases were asymptomatic with moderate AS and mild-to-moderate AR and were kept on follow-up. In all the cases, transesophageal echocardiography confirmed the diagnosis of UAV with detailed morphological and functional assessment of AV.
Isolation of left brachiocephalic artery in a patient with tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Sreelal Thazhathu Veettil , Pandey Niraj Nirmal , Kadiyani Lamk , Jagia Priya
Published: November 2024

We present the case of a 4-year-old girl with tetralogy of Fallot associated with an incidentally detected isolation of the left brachiocephalic artery, with no communication between it and the pulmonary artery or ductus arteriosus. The case highlights the unusual association and hemodynamic consequences of the condition.
Blood Transfusion Service in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Rekha Manandhar
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

In Nepal, Blood Transfusion Service-related activities have been initiated in a nationally co-ordinated way. The National Blood programme is established under the National Blood Transfusion Policy. The National Blood Programme runs on the budget allocated to various activities annually. Now, the Government of Nepal is in the process of establishment of government-owned Blood Transfusion Service Centers at the provincial level as per the approved protocol in seven different provinces.
“Block D” Phenomenon in Hemolytic Disease of Fetus and Newborn: The Immunohematological Implications
Authors: Mukherjee Sourav , Das Sudipta Sekhar , Chowdhury Sourav
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives: “Block D” in hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) is quite rare and should be evaluated meticulously. We analyzed “Block D” phenomenon in neonates with HDFN due to rhesus (Rh) incompatibilities. The objective of this study was to identify the blocking phenomenon in HDFN by simple, sensitive methods so that they can be implemented in routine practices.

Methods:

The study was conducted over 10 years, and written informed consent was taken from each participating parent/guardian. Detailed immunohematological workup for “Block D” was done on 11 samples. Complete patient details were obtained from the hospital information system. All laboratory parameters of neonates were observed till discharge from the hospital.

Results:

All mothers were Rh-D negative with a median age of 28 years. All of them revealed anti-Rh-D antibodies in their serum with titer ranging from 256 to 1024. All neonatal red cells were direct antiglobulin test (DAT) positive and initially Rh-D negative. Rh-D typing on eluted red cells confirmed the presence of D antigen. Strong positive and negative correlations were observed between newborn anti-D immunoglobulin G titer and newborn DAT (r = +0.71, P = 0.031) and newborn DAT and newborn hemoglobin (Hb) (r = −0.78, P = 0.032), respectively. While all neonates received phototherapy, four of them also received exchange transfusion. Gradual increase in mean Hb and decrease in both total serum bilirubin and DAT were observed from day 0 to day 7 (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

“Block D” though uncommon signifies the severity of HDFN. Often this phenomenon is missed due to a lack of standard protocol. Through detailed immunohematological characterizations, we could develop a diagnostic pathway to confirm “Block D” in HDFN which can be easily established in the resource-constrained laboratories.
Plasmapheresis as an Adjunctive Therapy in Phenytoin Poisoning
Authors: Paudel Purshotam , Sahoo Dibyajyoti , Basavarajegowda Abhishekh , Afroz Raushan
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Phenytoin is frequently used as an anticonvulsant. Phenytoin has saturable metabolic kinetics in overdose circumstances, making therapy challenging. Because of its high protein binding property, the usual hemodialysis and hemoperfusion are not usually preferred. We report a case of a chronic overdose in which an attempt was made to decrease the toxicity and lower plasma levels of phenytoin using plasmapheresis. A 60-year-old female with a history of seizure disorder on phenytoin for the last 25 years and asthma for 15 years on salbutamol when needed presented with a sudden onset of vomiting followed by altered sensorium in the form of drowsiness and decreased responsiveness. She was suspected of having phenytoin toxicity and given a stomach elsewhere. Her phenytoin level after admission to our center was 46 mg/mL (therapeutic range: 10–20 mg/mL). The initial assessment of the patient was done by the treating physician. As the patient did not improve with supportive management, the transfusion medicine department received the request to conduct a therapeutic plasmapheresis. The first session of plasmapheresis was performed using the Haemonetics MCS machine. After the procedure, her phenytoin level decreased by 43% from the baseline, and she was shifted out of the intensive care unit to the ward and discharged after 2 weeks.
Screening of Antenatal Patients for Anemia and Hemoglobinopathies
Authors: Ahuja Tejal Vishandas , Bhatnagar Nidhi , Shah Mamta C. , Shah Sangeeta D.
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Background and Objectives:

Anemia is an extremely common condition in pregnancy worldwide, which confers several health risks to mother and child. Iron deficiency is the most widespread micronutritional deficiency in the world and disproportionately affects females because of increased iron requirements during menstruation, pregnancy, and lactation. Hemoglobinopathies are a group of inherited disorders because of abnormalities in hemoglobin (Hb) synthesis or structure. Thalassemia and sickle cell anemia are the most prevalent hemoglobinopathies and a national health burden in India so identifying these disorders during the antenatal period is necessary to take appropriate measures. This study aimed to ascertain the prevalence and spectrum of thalassemia/hemoglobinopathy amongst antenatal patients and also to analyze the ability of red cell indices to differentiate beta thalassemia trait from mild iron-deficiency anemia (IDA).

Methods:

A prospective study of screening for Hb variants in Antenatal Patients due to low Hb and evaluation of other causes was performed for 1 year with 570 samples. In low Hb, patients’ complete blood count, Reticulocyte staining, and sickling test were performed. Hb analysis was done by high-performance liquid chromatography Bio-Rad Variant II. In IDA Serum ferritin and Serum Iron level were done and in megaloblastic anemia (MA) Vitamin B12 levels were done.

Results:

The prevalence of anemia in antenatal patients was 90.25%; in this, IDA presented at 84.21%, MA at 4.73%, and dimorphic anemia at 1.27%. The prevalence of hemoglobinopathies in the current study was 9.75%; in this beta-thalassemia minor presented at 5.08%, sickle cell trait at 4.03%, Hb D Punjab at 0.52%, and Hb Q India at 0.17%.

Conclusion:

Antenatal screening for genetic disorders, such as beta-thalassemia and sickle cell anemia, aims to reduce the burden of these diseases by offering information to individuals with a high likelihood of giving birth to affected babies and giving parents more choices regarding their reproductive decisions. For this, premarital and antenatal screening should be mandatory to prevent the birth of affected offspring.
Rare Presentation of Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody-associated Disease in Four Children
Authors: Venkatachalam Vinothini , Palaniappan Ayyammal , Ramalingam Ramakrishanan Tirupur Chinnappan , Gopalakrishnan Srimathi , Benjamin Antony Terance , Maheswaran Anupama
Published: November 2024

Background:

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody associated disease (MOG-AD) is an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system, identified more frequently in children than adults. We report 4 children with MOG-AD.

Clinical Description:

Cases 1–3 presented with fever, headache, and vomiting for varying durations. Case 4 presented with acute-onset impaired vision, after a prior episode of meningoencephalitis-like picture. Examination showed that Cases 1 and 2 had neck rigidity, and Case 4 had papilledema along with reduced visual acuity. Other cranial nerves, power, tone, and reflexes were normal in all children.

Management and Outcome:

Laboratory investigations were largely normal except elevated total leukocyte count and C-reactive protein in Cases 1 and 3 with a marginal rise in C- reactive protein in Cases 2 and 4. Cerebrospinal analysis showed pleocytosis with lymphocytic predominance and increased protein in Cases 3 and 4. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed features consistent with meningoencephalitis in Cases 1 and 3, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis in Case 2, and optic neuritis in Case 4. All the children had positive titers of anti-MOG, thus being diagnosed as MOG-AD. All the children were treated with intravenous methylprednisolone with a few of them requiring additional immunomodulator therapy. All the cases showed excellent recovery and remained in remission till the last follow-up.

Conclusion:

Children presenting with features simulating meningoencephalitis may be due to the rare condition of MOG-AD. A knowledge about this condition and specific investigations with expert interpretation and specific treatment can result in favorable outcomes.
Acute Pure Erythroid Leukemia Presenting with Chloroma in a Child: A Case Report with Review of Literature
Authors: Bhattacharya Sudipto , Verma Nishant
Published: November 2024

Background:

Pure erythroid leukemia (PEL) is the rarest subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), characterized by clonal proliferation of cells of erythroid origin with minimal myeloblast proliferation. It is typically a disease of the adults and presentation in children in association with chloroma is extremely rare.

Clinical Description:

A 20-month-old boy presented with left eye proptosis, and fever for a month, with bleeding from the eye for 10 days. He was febrile with pallor, and a nontender, nonfluctuant swelling with subconjunctival hemorrhage in the left eye and hepatomegaly.

Management and Outcome:

Investigations showed anemia and thrombocytopenia with 30% blasts in peripheral smear. Bone marrow examination was suggestive of acute leukemia and immunophenotype was confirmatory for PEL. The child was treated with cytarabine, doxorubicin, and etoposide during induction phase followed by high-dose cytarabine consolidation. The child remained in remission for 6 months, after which his disease relapsed in bone marrow and the family opted for palliative care.

Conclusion:

Rapidly developing nontender unilateral proptosis with bleeding may be a manifestation of chloroma associated with PEL. A combination of bone marrow, immunophenotyping, and karyotyping is required for its diagnosis. Conventional therapy for AML is poor.
Retroperitoneal Teratoma: A Rare Entity in a Young Infant
Authors: Sharma Rahul Deo , Achugatla Sushma , Singh Surendra , Thakur Sonia , Redkar Rajeev Gurunath
Published: November 2024

Background:

Primary retroperitoneal teratoma of infancy is rare, comprising only 3.5%–4% of all germ cell tumors. The presentation may range from an asymptomatic mass to an abdominal lump causing symptoms due to mass effect on the neighbouring organs. We present a young infant with an abdominal mass who posed a diagnostic challenge.

Clinical Description:

A 3monthold female infant with an uneventful antenatal and perinatal history presented with complaints of abdominal distension since 1½ months of age. A lump was palpable involving the entire right side of the abdomen, crossing the midline.

Management and Outcome:

Despite detailed radiological imaging and trucut biopsy, the diagnosis was unclear. A complete open laparoscopic excision of the mass followed by a biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of grade 2/3 immature teratoma. Serum alphafetoprotein levels and betahuman chorionic gonadotropin levels were normal. Chemotherapy was not administered. The patient has been on followup for the past 2½ years, doing well without any complaints.

Conclusion:

Early recognition and complete excision of primary retroperitoneal teratoma with mature or partly immature histopathology carries a good prognosis.