bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Face Detection And Recognition Through Live Stream
Authors: Thottempudi Pardhu
Published: September 2023

This chapter delves into the development of a machine-based project aimed at detecting and identifying human faces, a process known as face recognition. This process not only discerns human faces but also determines whether the face is familiar or unfamiliar, with advanced iterations even providing the identified individual's name. OpenCV, a tool within the realm of image processing, is utilized to ascertain the detected face. The implementation of this method occurs in two phases: training and testing. The project's design primarily incorporates live-stream face detection, feature extraction, and recognition of detected faces from a stored database. This technology has potential applications in criminal identification and security surveillance in police investigations. The machine-based nature of the project significantly reduces the likelihood of errors compared to manual recognition. The chapter concludes by comparing the detected and processed faces with a database to recognize familiar faces, thereby verifying the individual's real identity.
Fusing Technology and Sustainability
Authors: Rath Kali Charan , Panda Lakshmi Prasad , Mishra Debasis , Acharya Saroj Kumar , Kumar Amaresh
Published: September 2023

This chapter explores how technology and sustainability come together to make a positive impact. Authors focused on new possibilities in mechanical engineering and business analysis. The chapter explains why sustainable development is crucial and how technology plays a key role in helping the environment. The chapter also talks about the latest advancements in mechanical engineering that promote sustainability. Business analysis is shown to be a powerful tool in making eco-friendly choices and managing resources wisely using data-driven decisions. Contents of the chapter are well explained with examples of successful collaborations and discuss the challenges. Overly, this chapter highlights how combining technology, mechanical engineering, and business analysis can lead to creative and effective sustainable solutions. By embracing these interdisciplinary approaches, authors tried to create a better and more inclusive future, benefiting both society and the environment.
Next Generation of Internet of Things (NGIoT) in Healthcare Systems
Authors: Satav Sandip D. , Hasan Dler Salih , Pitchai R. , Mohanaprakash T. A. , Sultanuddin S. J. , Boopathi Sampath
Published: September 2023

The healthcare industry is significantly impacted by the next generation of internet of things (NGIoT), particularly in terms of digital connectivity infrastructures. This chapter of the book examines the role that cutting-edge technology and human-centered techniques are playing in the development of NGIoT in healthcare. The subjects addressed include digital connection infrastructures including interoperability, communication protocols, privacy, and security, as well as sensor technologies, edge computing, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud computing. The chapter focuses on user-centric design concepts, user experience, ethical considerations, and stakeholder involvement to emphasise the need of a human-centered approach. In this chapter, case studies and best practises for adopting the NGIoT are described along with lessons learned and challenges faced. The chapter summarises the key conclusions and looks at the ramifications.
Prediction Analysis of Gen Zers' Attitudes on Ecological Consciousness
Authors: Venugopal Koppala , Das Saumendra , Badawy Hassan Refaat Hassan
Published: September 2023

With ecological consciousness being imperative for all categories of people for the benefit of the environment, the public is practising certain activities and awareness among the uneducated is being disseminated. The practices are obtained individually at the living places of their own, but, at the offices, and institutions, the attitude is drifted suddenly, especially since the generation Zers are so negligent about the conservation of electricity, water, food, waste management, and other miscellaneous activities related to environmental protection. The study on the ecological consciousness of the hostel students concerning their perception and attitude towards the usage of the common scarce resources available in the hostels. The research was served with descriptive and exploratory design, mixed approach, convenience sampling technique and cross-sectional survey type. The data were analysed with factor analysis and multiple regression analysis. This chapter explains the impact of the conservation practices of students on their ecological consciousness.
Smart Agriculture Applications Using Internet of Things
Authors: Sethuraman S. , Singh Brijendra
Published: September 2023

Smart agriculture applications using IoT (Internet of Things) is getting popular in recent years. IoT-based smart agriculture applications involve the use of various sensor devices, such as soil sensors, weather stations, and drones, to collect data on environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, rainfall, soil moisture, and nutrient levels. This data is transmitted to the cloud where it is processed and analyzed to provide insights and recommendations to farmers. Smart agriculture applications using IoT can help farmers make data-driven decisions, reduce costs, and improve crop yields. This book chapter discusses the architecture and technologies used in IoT, then the three layers of IoT-based smart agriculture applications namely the physical layer, edge layer, and cloud layer. It also highlights the potential benefits of IoT-based smart agriculture applications and discusses the challenges of implementing IoT-based agriculture to improve farming practices.
Sustainable Green Energy Generation From Waste Water
Authors: Kumar B Mahendra , Kumar K Keshav , Sasikala P. , Sampath Boopathi , Gopi B. , Sundaram S.
Published: September 2023

This chapter investigates the conversion of wastewater into sustainable energy through the use of novel methods such as anaerobic digestion, microbial fuel cells, geothermal desalination, and internet of things (IoT) integration. It underlines the significance of wastewater treatment and energy sustainability, as well as the need for cost-effective solutions. IoT for real-time data collecting, analysis, and control can help with sustainable wastewater treatment and energy generation. Anaerobic digestion generates biogas, whereas microbial fuel cells convert organic molecules into energy. Geothermal desalination provides low-cost energy efficiency. IoT and ML technology enhances performance, lowers energy consumption, and allows for remote monitoring and maintenance, all of which contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.
Collaboration Between Caregivers and Educators
Authors: Iwuagwu Theodore Ifeanyi , Arteaga-Marquez Irene C. , Paul Shavon D. , Henry-Ison Avien L. , Buck-Zermane Christina R.
Published: September 2023

Home-school collaboration can impact the academic achievement of children with disabilities. The following terms describe home-school collaboration: collaborative home-school partnerships, parent involvement, and participation. Highlighting the benefits and barriers to home-school collaboration could be essential when discussing the concept of parent engagement. In addition, school leaders can leverage the support of various stakeholders to build partnerships and provide opportunities for parents to implement strategies such as (1) parent implemented interventions (PII), (2) effective communication, (3) shared decision-making, and (4) cultural responsiveness. To ensure effective implementation of PII, school leaders could create infrastructures (i.e., mentoring and coaching, use of digital technologies) in their buildings to foster strong home-school collaboration. Finally, the authors emphasized how joyful teaching by educators and willing collaboration by stakeholders could transfer to joyful learning for the population of students with disabilities and their caregivers.
Involving and Engaging Parents and Families in the IEP Process
Authors: Poch Apryl Lynn , Kupzyk Sara
Published: September 2023

Parent involvement and engagement is critical to the individualized education plan (IEP) process and a requirement of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Yet, this process presents several barriers to parents, particularly those from culturally, linguistically, and socio-economically diverse backgrounds. This chapter identifies common barriers and offers actions both school professionals and parents can take to overcome these barriers. Indeed, school professionals are well positioned to help parents navigate the special education process provided they receive the necessary training and recognize their own implicit biases about working with families and children who are different from them.
Improving Listening and Spoken Language Through Family Coaching and Distance Intervention/Telepractice
Authors: Houston K. Todd , Perigoe Christina Barris
Published: September 2023

This chapter will introduce the listening and spoken language approach (LSL). Originally developed for children who are deaf/hard of hearing (D/HH), LSL is an evidence-based, family-centered approach that focuses on coaching parents/caregivers to provide the environment and input necessary for children to optimize language learning through listening. The role of the interventionist/educator is to guide, coach, and support caregivers. The therapist/educator models specific evidence-based strategies for the caregiver to use in natural environments, such as the home. LSL is well-suited to distance intervention or telepractice/teleintervention—the delivery of services via videoconferencing technology. LSL has been used successfully with children who are D/HH, including those with multiple special needs. Primarily used in early intervention, it has also been used with school-aged children and adults. LSL can be adapted to children with a variety of learning needs who need to strengthen auditory attention, listening skills, and overall spoken language.
Novos ventos, sustentabilidade e outros desafios
Authors: Vieira Carlos Eduardo , Galak Eduardo Lautaro , Gondra José Gonçalves , Medeiros Neta Olívia Morais de , Campos Raquel Discini de , Godoy Sergio Luiz de
Published: September 2023

O número 23 da Revista Brasileira de História da Educação (RBHE) foi produzido nos marcos de uma conquista, visto que foi financiado pelo edital de Editoração do CNPq, de modo a oferecer uma maior sustentabilidade à revista e custear, ainda que parcialmente, os serviços de terceiros (Pessoa jurídica), tais como Revisão textual/gramatical; normalização textual e de referências; projeto gráfico e diagramação, pagamento de DOI e Ithenticate, e incremento da publicação de textos em língua estrangeira, bem como os serviços de Pessoa física, considerando a necessidade de preparação do texto, marcação XML e validação (XPM e Style Checker), e ajuda de custo para os serviços técnicos necessários ao desenvolvimento das ações estratégicas da RBHE, correspondente aos 45 artigos do Volume 23 da RBHE, do ano de 2023.
O destino da casa do Visconde
Authors: Leonardi Paula , Maia Giullia de Luca
Published: September 2023

A pesquisa investiga as representações construídas sobre o edifício do Colégio Nossa Senhora de Lourdes na imprensa periódica, indagando como a ideia de patrimônio é aí formada. Instalado na casa do Visconde de Ouro Preto em 1922, no bairro de Vila Isabel, Rio de Janeiro, o Colégio mantém-se até hoje no mesmo local, atendendo estudantes de setores médios da população. Compondo uma pesquisa maior, os resultados aqui apresentados respondem às seguintes questões: como o espaço e as construções do Colégio apareciam na imprensa? Quais as ideias de patrimônio aí veiculadas? Para isso, recorremos à catalogação das ocorrências encontradas na Hemeroteca Digital da Biblioteca Nacional, sua leitura e análise ancorada nos conceitos de materialidade escolar, patrimônio e território.
Detection of sub-lethal concentration (LC50) of Aeromonas hydrophila Against Hybrid Lemon Fin Barb (Hypsibarbus wetmorei ♂ × Barbonymus gonionotus ♀) Early Fry
Authors: Weerasingha Rochana , Kamarudin Mohd Salleh , Abd Karim Murni Marlina , Ismail Mohammad Fadhil Syukri
Published: September 2023

The common bacterial pathogens of cultured freshwater fish are mostly aeromonads, especially the pathogenic strains of Aeromonas hydrophyla. Early fry stages of fish reared in hatcheries face severe disease outbreaks caused by aeromonads. Disease challenge studies with pathogenic bacteria including Aeromonas sp. have become a more common tool used in the investigation of the effects of micronutrients and other immunomodulatory additives in fish diets. This study examined the sub-lethal concentration (LC50) of A. hydrophila against hybrid lemon fin barb (Barbonymus gonionotus ♀ × Hypsibarbus wetmorei ♂) early fry for 14 days. Three hundred and seventy-five fry (24 days after hatching) averaging 1.8±0.24 mg were randomly distributed in fifteen 2L plastic tanks. Fish fry were submerged in varying concentrations of A. hydrophila (2.5×105, 2.5×106, 2.5×107, 2.5×108 and 1×109 CFU ml-1). During the trial period, early fry was fed with a formulated diet containing the optimum crude protein and lipid contents. The mortality of fry in each tank was recorded daily. The LC50 of A. hydrophila for early fry of hybrid lemon fin barb by immersion was found at 6.06×108 CFU ml-1.
A Binary Integer Programming Approach to find a Sudoku Matrix
Authors: Paramadevan Paramacutty
Published: September 2023

In the basic Sudoku game, players must fill the entries of a n × n matrix, except some given entries, under the conditions that each row, each column, and each m × m sub matrix contains integers 1 through n exactly once. In this research paper, in addition to the basic game, conditions and solution process for three advanced versions, such as Sudoku X, Four Square Sudoku and Four Pyramid Sudoku were also studied. In this study, the above-mentioned conditions are converted into appropriate mathematical forms as constraints of the Integer Linear Programming Problem using Pascal Programming Language, such a way that the objective function and the constraints suit as an input mathematical model for the LINGO mathematical optimization software. Here, an unlimited version of the LINGO software has been used with the built-in Branch and Bound algorithm as the number of constraints is very high. Finally, solutions to the given Sudoku problems obtained from the solutions acquired through LINGO software.
A new stochastic restricted two-parameter estimator in multiplelinear regression model
Authors: Arumairajan Sivarasa , Kayathiri Sinnarasa
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we proposed a biased estimator, a new stochastic restricted two-parameter estimator (NSRTPE), for the multiple linear regression model to tackle the multicollinearity problem when the stochastic restrictions are available. Necessary and sufficient conditions for the superiority of the proposed estimator over the ordinary least square estimator (OLSE), ridge estimator (RE), Liu estimator (LE), almost unbiased Liu estimator (AULE), modified new two-parameter estimator (MNTPE), mixed estimator (ME), stochastic restricted Liu estimator (SRLE) were derived in the mean square error matrix (MSEM) criterion. Finally, we showed the superiority of the estimator proposed using a simulation study and a real-world example in the scalar mean square error (SMSE) criterion.
Hidden hunger: A case in early adolescents of the Colombo city
Authors: Athauda A. D. D. C. , Wijesinghe D. G. N. G. , Chandrasekara G. A. P.
Published: September 2023

Hidden hunger is the chronic deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals, collectively known as micronutrients. Globally two billion people are in hidden hunger. The prevalence of hidden hunger is high in developing countries, and adolescents were found to be one of the most vulnerable populations. The prevalence of overnutrition in early adolescents in Colombo city has been rising during the past decades, and the vegetable-based diet has been shifted to an animal-based diet due to the rapid nutrition transition. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was conducted using early adolescents aged 11-13 years in Colombo city to determine the adequacy of micronutrient intake. Six hundred thirty-four subjects were recruited using the multistage stratified cluster sampling technique. Socio-demographic data were collected using a general questionnaire. Dietary intake data were gathered using a three-day diet diary. Diet diaries were analyzed for daily energy, protein, and micronutrient intake using FoodBase 2000 software. The mean intake of energy, protein, and micronutrients was compared with the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) values, and the percentage of subjects below the RDA of the nutrient was determined. Results revealed that energy and micronutrient intake of calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, iodine, vitamin A, thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin C were below the RDA value. Daily intake of protein, selenium, and niacin met the RDA. Daily vitamin B6 intake reached the RDA value in girls and was inadequate in boys. The highest percentage of scarce minerals and vitamins were iron and folate, respectively. Thus, early adolescents aged 11-13 years in the city of Colombo are in hidden hunger.
Formulation and comparative analysis of polyherbal cough syrup prepared with different palmyrah sweeteners
Authors: Mahilrajan Subajini , Winston Mary Jeno , Vijayakumar Thavarajah , Thileepan Thayalini
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the phytochemical and nutritional analyses of polyherbal cough syrup that had been manufactured and was made with palmyra sweetener and a decoction that contained coarse dried herbs. Medicinal plants were collected, air-dried, and then used to prepare water and ethanol extracts. Among both extracts, water extract was selected for further study because it contained a high amount of components such as ash, protein, and sugar than ethanol extract. Three different polyherbal syrup was prepared with decoction by using sweeteners such as white sugar (TI), palmyrah jaggery (TII), and sugar candy (TIII). Physicochemical analysis of TII showed a low amount of water content [21.7(±1.01]) (v/v %) and water activity (aw) [0.627(±0.001)]. In addition that it showed significantly higher amounts of nutritional content such as total ash [6.5(±0.35)], total sugar [39.7(±1.08)], crude protein [3.0(±0.2)], and crude fat [0.9(±0.1)] g/100g also mineral content as calcium [415.7(±1.2)], magnesium [264.1(±0.7)], sodium [595.45(±4.8)], potassium [1747.2(±11.7)], phosphorous [359.9(±5.5)] and iron [141.4(±1.1)] (mg/100g) when compared with other syrup as TI and TIII. Therefore cough syrup prepared with decoction and palmyrah jaggery was selected for the studies as stability and standardization.
New record of anthracnose disease in leaves of Plumeria pudica in Sri Lanka
Authors: Nawananda P. H. R. S. , Mahendranathan Chandrakantha
Published: September 2023

Plumeria pudica L. is a deciduous ornamental shrub that belongs to the family Apocynaceae and is widely cultivated in Sri Lanka as a cosmopolitan ornamental plant. It has been reported that the anthracnose disease affects many tropical and subtropical fruits, vegetables, and foliage plants. Colletotrichum gloeosporioides or C. acutatum were reported as pathogens presently accepted as species complexes. In January 2021, a new fungal disease was observed on P. pudica, within the premises of the Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Vantharumoolai, Sri Lanka. Symptoms initiated as irregular necrotic spots that enlarged with pale brown borders. Later, the spots turned grayish-black, nearly rounded without lesions and haloes on the adaxial side of the matured leaves. Diseased leaf samples (10) were collected from three different trees inside the premises. Small pieces of infected leaves were used to isolate the pathogen on Potato dextrose Agar ( PDA) following the standard protocols. Forty colonies with similar morphology were obtained from diseased leaves. The colonies were white to gray and olivaceous in reverse after seven days of incubation under 27 °C. The morphological characters of fungal colonies, conidia, and appressoria were consistent with those of Colletotrichum sp., isolated from several other ornamental plants. Thus, based on these morphological characteristics, the pathogen was identified as Colletotrichum sp. Pathogenicity of the fungus was confirmed by performing Koch’s postulates using healthy detached leaves of P. pudica. This is the first report of Colletotrichum sp. causing anthracnose in P. pudica in Sri Lanka. This finding warrants the species-level identification of the pathogen using molecular data. The present work also lays the foundation for future studies on managing the disease in P. pudica under nursery or marketing conditions.
Performance of the Survival models in Socioeconomic Phenomena
Authors: Himali L. P. , Xia Zhiming
Published: September 2023

Unemployment is still high in Sri Lanka and is considered a severe challenge. Higher unemployment rates are consistently found regardless of the degree of economic activity, in which improvements in the GDP marginalize unemployment. This analysis aims to include statistical tools that help to understand the labour market better and increase the relevance of labour market policies. Survival methods are used, and the Hypertabastic model was found to be more powerful and reliable than other classical models by most researchers who researched it. This research discussed how these observations regarding the Hypertabastic paradigm hold up in the world of economics and social science. This study focuses on developing a survival model for unemployment, and its performance will be compared with the Cox proportional hazard model. Results of the study revealed that unemployed persons with higher education are not advantaged in the labour market, and there are significant differences between women and men concerning the unemployment duration. On average, the study subjects unemployed are young in age and age was not significantly affected by unemployment. According to the fitted models, Hypertabastic Proportional Hazards Model has smaller criterion values than the Cox Proportional Hazards model. Hypertabastic survival models can be an effective survival analysis tool for Socioeconomic Phenomena.
Overview of CD70 as a Potential Therapeutic Target for Osteosarcoma
Authors: Rav Emily , Maegawa Shinji , Gopalakrishnan Vidya , Gordon Nancy
Published: September 2023

Osteosarcoma is a primary malignant bone tumor. Effective chemotherapy regimens for refractory disease are scarce, accounting for no improvement in survival. Immune-based cell therapies have emerged as novel alternatives. However, advancements with these therapies have been seen mostly when immune cells are armed to target specific tumor Ags. Recent studies identified cluster of differentiation 70 (CD70) as a promising target to osteosarcoma particularly because CD70 is highly expressed in osteosarcoma lung metastases (Pahl et al. 2015. Cancer Cell Int. 15: 31), and its overexpression by tumors has been correlated with immune evasion and tumor proliferation (Yang et al. 2007. Blood 110: 2537–2544). However, the limited knowledge of the overall CD70 expression within normal tissues and the potential for off-target effect pose several challenges (Flieswasser et al. 2022. J. Exp. Clin. Cancer Res. 41: 12). Nonetheless, CD70-based clinical trials are currently ongoing and are preliminarily showing promising results for patients with osteosarcoma. The present review sheds light on the recent literature on CD70 as it relates to osteosarcoma and highlights the benefits and challenges of targeting this pathway.
Effects of pulmonary rehabilitation in survivors of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Role of vaccination
Authors: Vigna Matteo , Ceriana Piero , Santomassimo Mara , Vitacca Michele , Maniscalco Mauro , Ambrosino Nicolino
Published: September 2023

Survivors of severe COVID-19 requiring hospital admission may suffer from short- and long-term sequelae, including disability and reduced physical performance. Vaccination and pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) are effective tools against COVID-19 effects. While the beneficial effect of each of these treatments is known, there are no data about their combined effect. In people admitted to PR hospitals after severe COVID-19 disease, we retrospectively analyzed whether PR outcome might be influenced by vaccination status. Ninety-six individuals were studied (46 vaccinated, 50 unvaccinated). Unvaccinated individuals were younger and less comorbid than vaccinated ones and had needed more intensive care support during the previous hospitalization. Measures of disability and physical performance did not differ between groups at the beginning and at the end of the PR program. However, each group showed a statistically significant improvement in all outcome measures (6-minute walking test, short physical performance battery, Barthel Index). We conclude that vaccination status does not influence the outcome of in-patient PR programs for survivors of severe COVID-19.
Eosinophilic fasciitis in a young male auto mechanic exposed to organic solvents
Authors: Treichel A.M. , Zheng D.X. , Ranasinghe G.C. , Zeft A.S. , Bergfeld W.F. , Bayart C.B.
Published: September 2023

We report a case of eosinophilic fasciitis in a teenage auto mechanic who was most likely affected by occupational exposure to organic solvents, including the aromatic hydrocarbons benzene, trimethylbenzene, naphthalene, toluene, and xylene. The patient presented with an 8-month history of painful induration of his extremities and an abnormal gait. A deep excisional biopsy of the fascia was obtained, demonstrating subcutaneous fibrosis with perivascular and interstitial inflammation, with lymphocytes and plasma cells spilling into the sclerosed fascia, and focal fibrinoid necrosis. Treatment was begun with intravenous pulse doses of methylprednisolone, prednisone (20 mg daily), and subcutaneous methotrexate (25 mg weekly), and the patient’s painful induration had resolved and gait had normalized at the 6-month follow-up. Our case suggests that exposure to organic solvents could be implicated in the pathogenesis of eosinophilic fasciitis and highlights the importance of a thorough occupational history to prevent repeat exposures to potentially causative agents.
Oxidative stress may be a contributing factor in fibromyalgia patients’ pain mechanisms
Authors: Beyaztas H. , Aktas S. , Guler E.M. , Ata E.
Published: September 2023

Objective. The pathophysiology of fibromyalgia (FM), a continuously painful syndrome with no known origin, has been related to mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Recent studies have shown that FM may be associated with an oxidative balance disorder. The objective of this study was to measure the levels of oxidative stress in FM patients and try to understand the association between FM and free radicals.
Methods. This study was performed on 100 volunteers admitted to the University of Health Sciences, Sultan 2, Abdulhamid Han Health Application and Research Center Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Clinic, including 50 healthy controls and 50 patients with FM. To analyze oxidative stress biomarkers, total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) levels were measured. Total thiol (TT) and native thiol (NT) concentrations were measured to determine the relationship between thiol groups. Disulfide (DIS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) were calculated with mathematical formulas.
Results. While TOS and OSI levels were statistically higher in FM patients, TAS levels were significantly lower compared to the healthy control group (p<0.001). In comparison to the healthy control group, FM patients had considerably decreased TT and NT levels. DIS levels were significantly higher in FM patients than in controls (p<0.001).
Conclusions. Reactive oxygen species have several negative impacts on the human body. As a result of the measurements we analyzed, the relationship between FM and oxidative stress should be studied in terms of disease progression and may help improve the treatment process.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with inflammatory and autoimmune rheumatological diseases admitted for intensive care in Colombia
Authors: Fernández-Ávila D.G. , Vargas-Vanegas Ó.R. , Galindo-Rozo L. , García-Peña Á. , Muñoz-Velandia Ó.
Published: September 2023

Objective. Contemporary studies reporting outcomes of critical care in patients with inflammatory and autoimmune rheumatological diseases are scarce. This study describes 15 years of experience from 2005-2019 in a Colombian referral hospital.
Methods. This observational, descriptive, consecutive case series study was performed on adult patients with inflammatory and autoimmune rheumatic diseases who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of the San Ignacio University Hospital in Bogotá (Colombia), from January 1, 2005, to December 21, 2019. We describe the sociodemographic characteristics, admission causes and criteria, lengths of stay, immunosuppressive treatment, systemic support, and mortality.
Results. The study included 300 patients with a median age of 48 years [interquartile range (IQR) 31-62 years], predominantly female (76%). Disease exacerbations (30%), infections (17.6%), and cardiovascular diseases (15%) were the main causes of admission. Respiratory failure (23%) most commonly caused by septic shock (24%) was the principal indication for intensive care admission. The most frequent infections were community-acquired pneumonia (11.6%) and soft-tissue infections (9%). In 40.3% of patients, inotropic and vasopressor support was required. The median length of stay was 4 days (IQR 2-8), and global mortality was 21.6%.
Conclusions. Rheumatic diseases in the ICU are still associated with high morbidity and mortality. Patients with inflammatory and autoimmune rheumatic diseases require a meticulous clinical approach, strict clinical monitoring, frequent assessment of complications, evaluation of systemic support needs, and specific management.
Vasculitis associated with adenosine deaminase 2 deficiency: at the crossroads between Behçet’s disease and autoinflammation. A viewpoint
Authors: Colangelo A. , Tromby F. , Cafaro G. , Gerli R. , Bartoloni E. , Perricone C.
Published: September 2023

Adenosine deaminase 2 deficiency (DADA2) is a rare monogenic vasculopathy caused by loss-of-function homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations in ADA2, formerly CECR1 (cat eye syndrome chromosome region 1) gene. The DADA2 phenotype is widely heterogeneous, and patients may present with fever, weight loss, livedo reticularis/racemosa, digital ischemia, cutaneous ulceration, peripheral neuropathy, abdominal pain, bowel perforation, and portal or nephrogenic hypertension. More specific manifestations include early-onset ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, mild immunodeficiency and hypogammaglobinemia, cytopenia, and vision disturbances. Herein, we present the case of a young male with vasculitis associated with DADA2. The presence of HLA-B51 and the clinical features of this patient raised the question of similarities between ADA2 deficiency, Behçet’s disease, and NOD2-associated diseases. Treatment of this rare monogenic disease is challenging and based on small case series. The long-term experience of this patient proved the difficulties of prednisone tapering and the lack of satisfactory therapeutic strategies.
Causes of Neonatal Acute Renal Injury during Critical Illnesses
Authors: El-Kalioby Mohamad , Khashana Abdelmoneim , Kamel Noha , Hennawi Sara
Published: September 2023

The aim of the study was to assess acute kidney injury (AKI) and its contributing risk factors among neonates to reduce morbidity and mortality. The study included 310 neonates who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Serum creatinine (SCr) was elevated at admission, after 48 h, and before discharge or death. AKI was defined by either an acute rise in SCr of at least 0.3 mg/dL within 48 h or an increasing or persistently high level of SCr >1.5 mg/dL after 48–72 h of life. The patients who developed AKI were studied regarding the most common risk factors and outcomes. The prevalence of AKI in these neonates was 11.9%. Nephrotoxic drugs were the highest risk factor among patients with AKI, but this was not statistically significant different from patients without AKI. Perinatal asphyxia (59.5%), respiratory distress syndrome (48.6%), shock (43.2%), prematurity (40.5%), and sepsis (37.8%) were the main risk factors of AKI following the nephrotoxic drugs (64.9%). The mortality rate for cases with AKI was 62.1%, with a statistically significant difference from non-AKI neonates. The death rate was higher among neonates born before 36 weeks' gestation. There was no statistical difference between oliguric and non-oliguric neonates with AKI regarding the outcome. The overall incidence of AKI in sick neonates admitted to the NICU was 11.9%. Nephrotoxic drugs, perinatal asphyxia, shock, and prematurity were the main risk factors for developing AKI.
New histopathological evidence for the relationship between hydromyelia and hydrocephalus following subarachnoid hemorrhage: An experimental study
Authors: Yardim Ahmet , Kanat Ayhan , Karadag Mehmet Kursat , Aydin Mehmet Dumlu , Gel Mehmet Selim , Daltaban Iskender Samet , Demirtas Rabia
Published: September 2023

Objectives:

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a serious pathology with a high death and morbidity rate. There can be a relationship between hydromyelia and hydrocephalus following SAH; however, this subject has not been well investigated.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty-four rabbits (3 ± 0.4 years old; 4.4 ± 0.5 kg) were used in this study. Five of them were used as the control, and five of them as the SHAM group. The remaining animals (n = 14) had been used as the study group. The central canal volume values at the C1-C2 levels, ependymal cells, numbers of central canal surfaces, and Evans index values of the lateral ventricles were assessed and compared.

Results:

Choroid plexus edema and increased water vesicles were observed in animals with central canal dilatation. The Evans index of the brain ventricles was 0.33 ± 0.05, the mean volume of the central canal was 1.431 ± 0.043 mm3, and ependymal cells density was 5.420 ± 879/mm2 in the control group animals (n = 5); 0.35 ± 0.17, 1.190 ± 0.114 mm3, and 4.135 ± 612/mm2 in the SHAM group animals (n = 5); and 0.44 ± 0.68, 1.814 ± 0.139 mm3, and 2.512 ± 11/mm2 in the study group (n = 14). The relationship between the Evans index values, the central canal volumes, and degenerated ependymal cell densities was statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

This study showed that hydromyelia occurs following SAH-induced experimental hydrocephalus. Desquamation of ependymal cells and increased cerebrospinal fluid secretion may be responsible factors in the development of hydromyelia.
Awareness and Knowledge of Health Science Professionals on the Role of Speech-language Pathologists in Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Annitha G. , Suma Raju , Niharika M. K.
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Stroke is a complex condition that requires various health professionals’ coordinated and effective collaboration. Although the team approach is regarded as the most successful approach to stroke rehabilitation, understanding of the potential roles and responsibilities of each health professional by other team members remains variable. As speech-language pathologists work collaboratively in a patient-focused stroke rehabilitation team, other health science professionals must be aware of their roles. To investigate health science professionals’ awareness and knowledge of the role of speech-language pathologists in the stroke rehabilitation team.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey design was conducted through hybrid mode. One hundred and ninety-two students from seven different health science backgrounds including Ayurveda, Medicine, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Occupational therapy, Psychology and Dietetics participated in the present study.

Results:

Among the different health science groups, students from occupational therapy were found to have relatively better awareness and knowledge about the role of speech-language pathologists in stroke rehabilitation. However, perceptions about the same among other groups were variable.

Conclusions:

It is of utmost significance that all health science practitioners should be aware of the roles and responsibilities of each team members’ role in stroke rehabilitation which may facilitate better patient outcomes.
Exploring Effects of Service Model and the Age of Intervention on Cochlear Implant Outcomes
Authors: Mohan Priyanka , Yerraguntla Krishna , Rajashekhar Bellur
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

The outcomes of cochlear implantation depend on multiple factors. Several studies have investigated the impact of intervention age, communication mode, and socioeconomic status on intervention outcomes. Nonetheless, there is limited research on how different service models influence parental perception of the implantation process. The present study attempts to explore the effects of intervention age and eligibility criteria-based service on parental perspectives.

Method:

The Parents’ perspective questionnaire was adapted and modified to suit the social and cultural context of the Indian population. The translated versions of the questionnaire comprising items under the domains of communication, education, and service of the implant center were posed to 102 eligible parents. The effects of the age of surgical and therapeutic intervention were studied on the communication and education outcomes, respectively, whereas the effect of scheme type was studied on the domain of service of the implant center. Subjective responses were also recorded.

Results:

A comparison of parental ratings suggests no significant differences in the improvement of spoken language or academic competence between the groups. However, significant differences were found in parental concerns regarding their child’s pronunciation. Parents who had self-financed the implantation and habilitation had the least positive responses to questions regarding the services of the implant center. Concerns reported by parents included costs of repair and maintenance, as well as access to counseling services.

Conclusion:

The insights gained from the study can contribute to the enhancement of service quality. This can be realized through efforts to address parental concerns and facilitate improved access to information and counseling services.
Predictors of survival among patients with chronic hepatitis C at a tertiary care center in Oman
Authors: Al-Shuaili Halima H. , Al-Busafi Said A. , Al-Naamani Khalid , Al-Naamani Zakariya
Published: September 2023

Background:

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is a leading cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. This study aimed to determine rates and predictors of survival among Omani patients with CHC at a tertiary hospital in Muscat, Oman.

Methods:

This ambidirectional cohort study included all CHC patients who presented to the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital between January 2009 and December 2017. Baseline demographic, clinical, laboratory, and radiological data were analyzed. Patients were followed-up until death or the endpoint of the study (April 2022) to determine survival and associations with other parameters.

Results:

A total of 702 CHC patients were included, of which 398 (56.7%) were under 50 years of age and 477 (67.9%) were male. Overall, 180 patients (25.6%) died by the study endpoint. The mean duration of follow-up was 93.3 ± 48.0 months. The 5-year survival rate was estimated to be 80.5%, while the 10-year survival was 73%. Sustained virological response and the absence of diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, HCC, or other malignancies were associated with significantly better overall survival. The 3- and 5-year survival rate of patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related HCC was 46.5% and 27.6%, respectively, with a median survival of 29.5 months. Co-infection with hepatitis B was associated with poor survival among this subgroup; conversely, early HCV screening and the presence of a single HCC lesion were associated with better overall survival.

Conclusions:

National policies for early CHC screening and rapid treatment are needed to improve survival rates in this population.
Case Report: Case Series of Kocuria palustris Bacteremia among Immunocompromised Patients
Authors: Varghese Gerlin , Jamwal Ashima , Sarawat Deepika , Sahu Chinmoy , Patel Sangram Singh , Tejan Nidhi
Published: September 2023

Kocuria species are normal commensals of the skin that have been found in various environmental niches and are usually considered nonpathogenic. However, according to recent literature, Kocuria spp. have been associated with human infections. Kocuria palustris is an emerging opportunistic pathogen with great potential to cause disease in immunocompromised patients. The isolation and identification of this pathogen is necessary, as timely treatment with the appropriate antibiotics can help in reducing mortality among these patients. We present three cases of bacteremia in immunocompromised patients admitted to our hospital; one patient was receiving chemotherapy for gall bladder carcinoma, the second was on maintenance hemodialysis for chronic kidney disease, and the third was receiving chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia. All three patients presented with a fever in the setting of neutropenia during the course of treatment with chemotherapy (in Cases 1 and 3) or hemodialysis (in Case 2). The blood culture samples of all the patients had pure isolates of Kocuria species K. palustris, which was identified by matrix assisted laser desorption ionisation- time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-ToF MS). All three patients presented with febrile neutropenia during the course of treatment with chemotherapy (in Cases 1 and 3) or hemodialysis (in Case 2).
Ubuntu and forced migration: reflections for social work engagement with older refugees in Canada
Authors: Prince Chaigozie EKOH
Published: September 2023

As an African philosophy, Ubuntu, anchored in our humanness and interconnectedness, holds a lot of promise for social work research and practice with older refugees. It can potentially make communal care and mutual support between older refugees and host communities a lifestyle that can address the peculiar needs of older refugees. This article synthesised literature linking Ubuntu to social work and refugees using a desk review. The reviewed literature illustrates Ubuntu’s significance in social justice, respect for the dignity and worth of refugees and improving their integration into society. Ubuntu was also found to help refugees develop resilience and strength, especially when they support other refugees. It moves away from the pathological view of refugeeism to understanding refugees as people who also provide support. However, despite Ubuntu being a lifestyle in Africa, many Africans seem to have abandoned this, as evidenced by various social issues affecting refugees in Africa, such as xenophobic attacks. This paper makes a case for adopting Ubuntu in social work practice and research with older refugees through the development of communal support systems of care.
Journal website:
https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
How to reference using ASWNet style:
Ekoh P. C. and Warria A. (2023). Ubuntu and forced migration: reflections for social work engagement with older refugees in Canada. African Journal of Social Work, 13(1), 1-11. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i1.1
Perceptions of stakeholders on drivers of stigma subjected to People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Alice town, Eastern Cape: Implications for human rights and social service professions
Authors: Simon KANGETHE
Published: September 2023

Despite global HIV/AIDS stigma going down significantly, South Africa continues to experience both internal and external stigma that is believed to derail people’s rights to prevention and response. It is therefore important to establish the drivers of stigma and the human rights deficit they pose to the PLWHA and to social workers. The article, through informal community engagements, sought to tap the insights of selected stakeholders on the drivers of stigma in Alice town and its environs. The study comprised thirty-three participants, eight of whom were engaged in in-depth interviews while 25 of them were involved in four focus group discussions. Coding facilitated the selection and establishment of themes. Findings established that stigma was driven by ignorance pertaining to the AIDS aetiology and epidemiology; weaker campaign infrastructure in the rural areas; poverty of the people; denialism and myths. The article has used the philosophy of Ubuntu to suggest how to tackle HIV/AIDS stigma. The article recommends more research on drivers of stigma. Collaboration, as well as a synergy between different stakeholders in the HIV/AIDS arena, is recommended.

Journal website:

https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net

How to reference using ASWNet style:

Kangethe S. (2023). Perceptions of stakeholders on drivers of stigma subjected to People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Alice town, Eastern Cape: Implications for human rights and social service professions. African Journal of Social Work, 13(1), 30-38. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i1.4
H-Infinity Electronic Controller Fails for Integrated Delay in Aircrafts
Authors: Srikanth Kavirayani
Published: September 2023

When the time delay is integrated into the dynamic system definition and the analysis of a complex dynamic system such as aircraft is carried out, it depicts that integrating the delay into the definition would be advantageous in evaluating the performance of the aircraft at a faster rate. It also stabilizes the plant at a faster rate when compared to classical control techniques applied on systems considering delay as a separate entity. An H-infinity controller is designed for the integrated system and analyzed as part of the studies that yielded interesting observations on the H-infinity limitations. The analysis of the system when compared to simple classical control techniques is vividly advantageous however when delays are integrated and critical delay impacts are not calculated, the chances for failure of a dynamic system control predominantly increase owing to varied complex governing equations which otherwise would be approximated with linear models.
Optimization of Data Throughput for Improved Traffic Management in a Data Switched Network
Authors: V.N. Okorogu, , E. U. Ogbodo, , C. S. Okafor, , P.C. Obioma,
Published: September 2023

This research was driven by the necessity to verify and confirm that GSM Network Providers adhere to the quality of service (QoS) standard in their network about the regulations set forth by the regulatory authority. The GSM network operators must follow certain key performance indicators (KPI) established by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to provide effective services in the nation. Radiofrequency optimization is a routine task done to preserve QoS in a competitive market context. This study examined how the Mobile Telecommunications Nigeria (MTN) network used bandwidth to track customer performance and data usage. To find out how to optimize traffic management by achieving effective capacity and effective bandwidth for QoS requirements, MATLAB simulation was used. Data network characteristics revealed that there was no network congestion when bandwidth utilization was less than 20 Mbps.