bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La réflexivité dans la formation des enseignants-chercheurs : quelle place dans leur développement professionnel?
Authors: Huez Julitte
Published: September 2022

La littérature sur la formation et le développement professionnel des enseignants évoque la réflexivité comme élément essentiel de la compréhension de leur travail. Ainsi, quand la formation des enseignants du supérieur à leurs pratiques d’enseignement se structure, il y est fait référence à la démarche réflexive. Cependant, quel sens cela a pour les enseignants-chercheurs (EC), les formateurs, voire les décideurs?Notre recherche prend appui sur le terrain de l’Université Fédérale Toulouse Midi-Pyrénées et plus particulièrement sur celui de la formation des EC prise en charge par les formateurs de l’enseignement supérieur. Elle propose, autour de cette notion de réflexivité, d’analyser l’écart perçu entre intention de mise en œuvre et ce qui est réalisé.Après avoir resitué le contexte de la formation des EC, désormais prescrite, nous analysons comment il leur est proposé de développer la posture réflexive. Nous nous appuyons pour cela sur des ressources mises à leur disposition, tels que les programmes de formation et les repères pour l’exercice du métier d’EC. Un exemple de dispositif mis en place à l’échelle locale, dans le cadre de notre recherche, est ensuite présenté. Ce GEASE (Groupe d’entraînement à l’analyse de situations éducatives) qui voit son initiation soumise à une proximité professionnelle entre EC et formateur/chercheur, crée un espace où la pratique réflexive est possible. Il fait également apparaître, à travers l’expression des EC, le métier éprouvé, et ce, dans son entièreté. Ce qu’en disent les EC questionne la pertinence de la formation et dessine ses limites.
TS2LBDP
Authors: Shelke Pallavi , Shahapurkar Rekha
Published: September 2022

Few scheduling, models focus on service-level agreement (SLA) enforcement, which limits their real-time applicability. Thus, this research work proposes the design of an improved task-side service level (TS2L) agreement model for efficient task-scheduling using elephant herd optimization (EHO) with deadline (BDP) awareness. TS2LBDP incorporates pattern analysis using ensemble hierarchical, k-means, and fuzzy C means (FCM) clustering methods. A combination of these modules assists in improving task diversity and scheduling efficiency. SLA-based distribution enhances scheduling fairness and reduces mean waiting time for different clients. The proposed model was tested on parallel workload archive wherein different cloud workload logs and their respective VM configurations are described. It was observed that the proposed model improves scheduling efficiency by 20%, task diversity by 45%, and deadline hit ratio by 1%. It is scalable and can be used for several types of cloud deployments.
Role of New Wireless Technologies in Achieving UN SDGs
Authors: Pejanovic-Djurisic Milica
Published: September 2022

New Next G (generation) wireless technologies can be considered as key drivers for improving infrastructure, promoting sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation. When it comes to their overall impact, key UN Development Goals (SDGs) can be identified where these technologies can provide added economic/social value, contributing to good health, poverty reduction, better education. This paper provides more insights into specific impacts, discussing the implementation of Next G wireless networks in terms of achieving global development indicators. Further on, in the context of specific user scenarios, a mapping between areas of application (vertical industry segments) and SDGs is presented, enabling a better understanding of the role of Next G wireless networks and their impacts on overall economic/social development.
Integration between Practice of Strategic Human Resource Management and Organizational Strategy Process: View Points from CEOs and Heads of HR in Sri Lankan firms
Authors: Sajeevanie T. L. , Opatha H. H. D. N. P. , Dissanayake K.
Published: September 2022

The Practice of Strategic Human Resource Management has become more important to strategic management, largely as a result of its role in providing competitive advantage and the rush to competitiveness. Existing literature reveals that it is critical to address the research issue of why the practice of SHRM should integrate with Organizational Strategy Process. The objective of this study was to find out reasons for why the practice of SHRM should integrate with Organizational Strategy Process from the viewpoints of Chief Executive Officers and Heads of Human Resource of Sri Lankan Listed Companies. Qualitative approach was used and the research strategy of this study was descriptive. In order to select the respondents the purposive sampling technique was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in order to explore the existing uncovered realities. Heads of HR and CEOs of 20 organizations were interviewed and the data were analyzed through thematic analysis. Initially five themes were identified and later refinement produced four themes. These are original contributions to the Sri Lankan SHRM Literature. The findings of the study help fill the existing knowledge gap and provide some practical implications for professionals on SHRM practices in the Sri Lankan context.
Research areas in consumer vulnerability a systematic literature review
Authors: Nishadi G. P. K. , Warnakulasooriya B. N. F. , Chandralal K. P. L.
Published: September 2022

Consumer Vulnerability is a phenomenon used to explain the powerlessness of consumers in marketplace interactions. Comprehension of different areas of vulnerabilities that consumers face in the modern marketplace is a central and broadly discussed topic in current literature. Further, the majority of current studies on Consumer Vulnerability focus on consumer demographics, such as income, age, education, minority status, and area of living. However, the field lacks studies on possible causes, victims, and effects of consumer vulnerability in consumption contexts. Thus, this systematic literature review was conducted to fill the extant knowledge gaps and identify research areas related to vulnerability with specific consumer groups and reasons. Based on a comprehensive review protocol, 60 papers selected from 750 articles, were reviewed using the mixed-method approach. Further, primary study selection was done on the grounds that the articles; were published within the 2005-2020 period, relevant to the field of Consumer Vulnerability, published in English, have more than 3 pages in the paper. The findings of the study revealed five areas of consumer vulnerability; namely, Online Consumer Vulnerability, TV Advertising and Child Consumer Vulnerability, Low literacy and Consumer Vulnerability, Older Consumer Vulnerability, and Consumer Vulnerability in the Multi-cultural marketplace. The results indicated that the impact of the internet, social media, and TV advertising on young consumer vulnerability should be studied in greater depth in future research.
Strategic leadership exercised by the defence forces of Sri Lanka during the COVID-19 outbreak
Authors: Jayawardane Thesara V. P.
Published: September 2022

Corona Virus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) is considered as one of the most mortal and dangerous pandemics humans had come across in centuries. Having gone through two waves of the Covid-19, Sri Lankan government took every necessary step in preventing and eliminating the deadly virus in order to ensure a safer country for the citizens. The Defence forces of Sri Lanka have taken the lead in supporting the governments’ battle against Covid-19 and have extended a tremendous support to the Health sector and Public at large. The objectives of this study is to identify the main areas of strategic leadership exercised by the defence forces of Sri Lanka during the battle against Covid-19, to analyse the impact of the contribution made by the defence forces on Covid-19 and to understand whether external support moderates the strategic leadership exercised by the defence forces on Covid-19. The study was conducted on a qualitative basis with the research material obtained mostly from secondary data which included government reports and statistics, information from international websites, digital, print and social media reports. Face to face interviews were conducted with key personnel of the defence forces in order to clarify confidential information and ensure the accurateness of the data. It was identified that strategic leadership exercised by the defence forces include the areas such as planning and organisation, control and coordination, innovation and creation as well as prevention and notification. Key contributions made by Sri Lanka Army (Army), Sri Lanka Navy (Navy) and Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) were identified. The support extended by the general public or the lack of it, along with the contribution from the health sector moderated the effort of the defence forces. It was concluded that the impact of Covid-19 on Sri Lanka was minimised as a result of the strategic leadership exercised by the defence forces.
Role of knowledge sharing and learning process of students
Authors: Jesuthasan Sutharsini , Umakanth N. , Dineshkumar Sabina
Published: September 2022

Knowledge sharing among peers plays a vital role in students’ learning process and an Effective and inclusive Knowledge Sharing is an integral part of successful and practical university learning. This study aims to investigate the knowledge- sharing behavior of undergraduate students of the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce students at the University of Jaffna. The present study involved a quantitative approach concerning the design of surveys and the population to reach that purpose. The researcher used SPSS software version 20.0 for data analysis purposes. It was found that, generally, students displayed a positive attitude towards knowledge sharing and were appreciative of its importance in peer learning. It was found that, generally, students displayed a positive attitude towards knowledge sharing and were appreciative of its importance in peer learning. Further, the study found that technological availability, social media ties, self-efficacy, and experience were the significant determinants of knowledge-sharing behavior among students. Final recommendations are given by the author; it also provides more support and direction to future work.
Bridging intellectual capital and knowledge management through knowledge: a review
Authors: Wanigasekara W. A. D. K. J. , Weligamage S. S. , Karunarathne W. V.  A.  D.
Published: September 2022

The objective of this review study is to identify the role of knowledge in combining Intellectual Capital (IC) and Knowledge Management (KM) within an organization. Though the literature suggests a relationship between IC and KM, the recognition of the best bridge in building this relationship is yet to be discussed and hence the theoretical and conceptual relationship among knowledge, IC and KM is still a dilemma. Thus, this review attempts to identify the knowledge as the bridging source of IC and KM. According to the literature, different arguments were found on this phenomenon, and no evidence is found merely in reviewing how knowledge plays a role in linking IC and KM. Therefore, this study will fill this untouched literature gap by reviewing the previous research articles in the fields of IC and KM. This study adds new knowledge to the existing literature in solving the unsolved puzzle of the role of knowledge in combining IC and KM. This review study attempts to conclude the theoretical relationship of IC with knowledge and the theoretical relationship of KM with knowledge. For this review study, previous research articles were reviewed, and it is identified what kind of relationship exists among IC, KM and knowledge. It was found that knowledge exists in an organization in the form of stock as well as in terms of a flow. Most of the scholars in IC and KM arena argued that the two forms of knowledge, i.e., the form of stock, is the static form of knowledge, while the form of flow is the dynamic form of knowledge. The review further revealed that the static form of knowledge could be substituted with IC and the dynamic form of knowledge can be substituted with KM. Hence, it can be concluded that, based on the various arguments and opinions found from the review, IC is the knowledge stock in an organization, while the KM is the knowledge flow in the organization. Finally, the conclusion of this review study is, knowledge uses its two forms, i.e., stock and flow or static and dynamic to combine the concept of IC and concept of KM.
Diethylcarbamazine citrate-fortified salt for lymphatic filariasis elimination in India
Authors: Sabesan S. , Krishnamoorthy K. , Hoti S.L. , Subramanian S. , Srividya A. , Roy Nupur , Jain Tanu , Kumar Ashwani , Rahi Manju
Published: September 2022

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a vector-borne neglected tropical disease, causing permanent disability. The disease is debilitating and widespread, leading to tremendous productivity and economic loss. The Government of India (GOI) prioritized the elimination of LF through the annual mass drug administration (MDA) programme in 2004 and continued with a single dose of diethylcarbamazine citrate (DEC), 6 mg/kg of body weight, plus albendazole annually over a period of 5-6 years. The GOI had set the target to achieve LF elimination by 2015 and now by 2030. The progress so far has been suboptimal. Much remains to be done as about 84 per cent of the total 328 endemic districts are still under MDA. The major challenge in implementing MDA is poor compliance. It is necessary to have a feasible alternative strategy addressing the above challenge to achieve the desired goal of LF elimination. At this juncture, a well-researched approach, i.e. the use of DEC-fortified salt, also advocated by the World Health Organization, as a unique form of MDA, is proposed. As per this strategy, a low dose of DEC (0.2% w/w) is added to the cooking salt at the manufacturing facility of iodized salt and consumed by the LF-endemic communities for about two years. Many examples of successful use of this strategy for LF elimination in small- and large-scale trials have been documented in India and several other endemic countries in the world. Implementing DEC–iodine-fortified salt is a safe, less expensive, more efficient and prompt approach for achieving the elimination of LF in India. Adverse effects are none or minor and self-limiting. The DEC-fortified salt strategy can easily piggyback on the existing countrywide deployment of iodized salt under the National Iodine Deficiency Disorders Control Programme (NIDDCP), which has achieved a great success in reducing iodine-deficiency disorders such as hypothyroidism. This existing robust programme can be leveraged to launch DEC-fortified salt for the community. If implemented appropriately, this strategy will ensure the complete cessation of LF transmission within two years from its introduction. If the said strategy is implemented in 2022, it is expected that India will be able to achieve the LF elimination by 2024, much before the global target of 2030.
Haemophilia management programme: Transformation during COVID-19
Authors: Sait Haseena , Sajjan Shruti M. , Phadke Shubha R.
Published: September 2022

Background & objectives:

Haemophilia is a debilitating bleeding disorder with significant comorbidities affecting the quality of life. In India, the management of these individuals is still limited to on-demand institutional treatment with coagulant factors. In this study, we highlighted the problems faced by these patients in the COVID-19 period due to nationwide lockdown.

Methods:

A retrospective study was done to ascertain the trend in the number of patients with haemophilia A and B visiting the hospital, those succumbing to haemophilic complications and indications for factor requirement in the pre-COVID (October 2019-March 2020) and during the COVID-19 period (April-September 2020). Representative cases with unusual complications were described along with significant challenges faced in providing standard care of treatment to these individuals due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results:

A total of 818 and 162 individuals with haemophilia A and B, respectively, were registered with the department. The overall number of patient visits to the hospital significantly reduced from an average of 6.9 outpatient department (OPD) visits per patient in the pre-COVID-19 period to an average of 3.9 OPD visits per patient and admissions reduced to 50 per cent during the COVID-19 period. This led to a reduction in utilization of factors VIII and IX except VIIa for haemophilia with inhibitors. There was no factor utilization for elective surgeries during the COVID-19 period. A total of eight patients succumbed to haemophilia-related complications during the COVID-19 period due to delay in reaching the hospital. The challenges faced in the management of three cases with musculoskeletal bleeds, one case with scrotal haematoma and one with haemothorax during the COVID-19 period were also highlighted.

Interpretation & conclusions:

COVID-19 pandemic has unveiled the need for on-demand home treatment with coagulant factors and has also brought to light the existing need for primary prophylaxis, especially for younger individuals with haemophilia.
Fas cell surface death receptor/Fas ligand genetic variants in gastric cancer patients: A case-control study
Authors: Asgari Rezvan , Bidmeshkipour Ali , Mansouri Kamran , Bakhtiari Mitra , Mozafari Hadi , Abdolmaleki Amir
Published: September 2022

Background & objectives:

Various studies have suggested a correlation between Fas cell surface death receptor/Fas ligand (FAS/FASL) variants and multiple types of cancers. The present study aimed to investigate the association between FAS-670A/G and FASL-844C/T and the synergistic effects of both variants on the risk of gastric cancer (GC) in the Kurdish population of west of Iran.

Methods:

This study was conducted by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism technique using MvaI and BsrDI restriction enzymes in 98 GC patients and 103 healthy control individuals.

Results:

According to the obtained results, a significant association (P=0.008) of FASL polymorphism among GC patients and the control group was detected. Furthermore, no significant differences were found in the FAS polymorphism frequencies between GC patients and the control group. Codominant and dominant models in FASL polymorphism showed significant protective effects against GC [odds ratio (OR)=0.307, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.134-0.705), P=0.005; OR=0.205, 95% CI (0.058-0.718), P=0.013 and OR=0.295, 95% CI (0.129-0.673), P=0.004 for models of codominant CC vs. CT, codominant CC vs. TT and dominant, respectively]. Furthermore, the presence of both FAS-670G and FASL-844T alleles represented a significant protective effect against GC occurrence [OR=0.420, 95% CI (0.181-0.975), P=0.043].

Interpretation & conclusions:

So far, we believe this is the first study, the results of which suggest that FASL gene variation and its synergistic effects with FAS gene could be associated with the risk of GC in the Kurdish population in the west of Iran.
A study on the effect of mobile phone use on sleep
Authors: Sinha Sanjeev , Dhooria Sahajal , Sasi Archana , Tomer Aditi , Thejeswar N. , Kumar Sanchit , Gupta Gaurav , Pandey R.M. , Behera Digambar , Mohan Alladi , Sharma Surendra Kumar
Published: September 2022

Background & objectives:

Several studies have been conducted globally to assess the impact of usage of mobile phones on quality and duration of sleep as also on day time sleepiness. The objective of the present study was to assess the effect of mobile phone usage on the quality and composition of sleep in a sample from Indian population.

Methods:

The study was conducted at two tertiary care hospitals in north India from July 2014 to September 2019. A total of 566 participants were recruited in this study from both the centres. Sleep quality was assessed with the help of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire. Subsequently, actigraphy was done in 96 participants and polysomnography in 95 participants.

Results:

Of the 566 participants, 128 (22.61%) had PSQI ≥5, reflecting poor sleep quality. A higher use of mobile phone was significantly associated with a poor sleep quality as a component of PSQI questionnaire (P=0.01) and higher overall PSQI score (P=0.01). The latency from sleep onset to N2 and N3 sleep stages was significantly shorter in participants having a higher mobile phone usage as compared to those with a lower usage [Median (range): 13.5 min (1.5-109) vs. 6.5 min (0-89); P=0.02] and [Median (range): 49 min (8.5-220.5) vs. 28.75 min (0-141); P=0.03], respectively.

Interpretation & conclusions:

This study focused on the maladaptive changes brought on by mobile phone usage on sleep. More studies with larger sample sizes need to be done that may serve to confirm the hypothesis generating findings of our study.
Incidence & outcomes of clinically significant bleeding events in critically ill COVID-19 patients receiving Therapeutic dose AntiCoagulanTs: A retrospective cohort study (INTerACT study)
Authors: Singh Ajay , Dhir Ankita , Kajal Kamal , Naik Naveen B. , Lazar Michelle Shirin , Puri G. D. , Soni Shiv Lal , Neupane Adhip , Ganesh Venkata , Kaloria Narender , Saini Kulbhushan , Hazarika Amarjyoti , Mahajan Varun , Singla Karan , Bhalla Ashish
Published: September 2022

Background & objectives:

The high mortality associated with the thrombotic events in hospitalized COVID-19 patients resulted in the usage of anticoagulants in varying doses. Whether high-dose anticoagulants have led to better outcomes or higher incidence of clinically significant bleeding events is debatable. Thus, this study was conducted to find the incidence of clinically significant bleeding events in moderate-to-severe COVID-19 ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome) patients on therapeutic anticoagulation and their outcomes.

Methods:

In this retrospective, single-centre study of 155 critically ill COVID-19 patients, the incidence of clinically significant bleeding was observed. Multivariate regression models were used to evaluate the association between anticoagulant regimen, coagulation and inflammatory markers with the incidence of bleeding and thrombotic events.

Results:

The incidence of clinically relevant non-major bleeding was 33.54 per cent (26.17-41.46%) and major bleeding was 9.03 per cent (5.02-14.69%). The anticoagulation intensity at baseline had a high odds of major bleeding when enoxaparin and dual antiplatelet therapy were used together [adjusted odds ratio OR of 434.09 (3.81-49502.95),
P
<0.05]. At admission, bleeders had a poorer PaO2/FiO2 ratio with more patients on invasive ventilation. At the time of bleeding, the bleeders had a higher D-dimer, ferritin, C-reactive protein and procalcitonin compared to non-bleeders. The subhazard ratio for death in bleeders was 3.35 (95% confidence interval, 1.97-5.65; P<0.001).

Interpretation & conclusions:

The incidence of bleeding in critically ill COVID-19 patients on therapeutic anticoagulation may increase with the severity of the disease as well as with concurrent use of dual antiplatelets. Major bleeding may also contribute to higher mortality.
Development of anti-rituximab antibodies in rituximab-treated patients: Related parameters & consequences
Authors: Saffari Fatemeh , Jafarzadeh Abdollah
Published: September 2022

The utilization of the monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) as therapeutic agents is one of the most favourable fields in immunotherapy. The immunogenicity of mAbs is one of the major parameters that may restrict their therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Rituximab, a chimeric mAb against CD20, is attached to the B-cell membrane-linked CD20 and is used to treat some B-cell-related malignancies, a number of autoantibody-mediated autoimmune disorders and improvement of graft survival. The risk of anti-rituximab antibody (ARA) development and ARA-related adverse events are low in rituximab-treated patients with lymphoma. No important association was reported between the ARA positivity and drug levels, and drug efficacy in rituximab-treated patients with lymphoma. The patients with autoimmune disorders exhibit greater risk of ARA development and ARA-related adverse events. In autoimmune diseases, ARA positivity may have no significant impact on either the drug level or its efficacy, (i.e.), it may reduce drug levels without influencing drug efficacy and, vice versa, or may reduce both drug level as well as its efficacy. The characterization of the parameters affecting the production of ARA can be used to design strategies to reduce the immunogenicity of mAb and promote its efficacy in humans. In this review, the host and therapeutic programme-related parameters affecting the development of the ARA have been discussed to suggest novel insights to reduce ARA-associated adverse events and enhance the drug efficacy.
Antibody profile in post-vaccinated & SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals
Authors: Patil Rucha , Shanbhag Sharda , Shankarkumar Aruna , Madkaikar Manisha
Published: September 2022

Background & objectives:

During the COVID-19 pandemic it was important to assess the antibody profile in individuals vaccinated with Covaxin (BBV152) and Covishield (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19) with both 28 and 84 days gaps between two doses, those infected with SARS-CoV-2 and post-COVID-19-infected individuals vaccinated with only one dose of either of the vaccines. The present study was aimed to assess these objectives.

Methods:

Fifty real time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR)-confirmed COVID-19-infected individuals, along with 90 COVID-19-naïve (BBV152 and ChAdOx1 nCov-19)–vaccinated individuals, were included in the study. Individuals who received a single dose of either vaccine with a confirmed past diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection (n=15) were also included. Blood samples were collected strictly between the 4th and 5th wk after development of symptoms for SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals and after the first/second vaccination dose. Antibody profile assessment was done using whole-virus, spike-receptor binding domain (RBD) and nucleocapsid-specific ELISA kits along with neutralizing antibody kit.

Results:

There was an overall 97.7 per cent seropositivity rate in vaccinated individuals, and a strong correlation (R
2=0.8, P<0.001) between neutralizing and spike-RBD antibodies. Among individuals who received two standard doses of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine, the spike antibody levels developed were of higher titre with a longer prime boost interval than in those with shorter intervals (P<0.01). Individuals vaccinated with two doses as well as only one dose post-SARS-CoV-2 infection had high neutralizing and spike-specific antibodies.

Interpretation & conclusions:

High neutralizing and spike-specific antibodies were developed in individuals vaccinated only with one dose of either vaccine post-SARS-CoV-2 infection. With the main priority being vaccinating majority of the population in our country, single-dose administration to such individuals would be a sensible way to make the most of the limited supplies. Furthermore, neutralizing antibody levels observed in COVID-19-naïve vaccinees imply the need for booster vaccination.
A comprehensive yoga programme for weight reduction in children & adolescents with obesity: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jain Vandana , Kumar Brijesh , Sharma Anuradha , Chawla Veenu , Yadav Raj Kumar , Grover Saurabh , Sharma Renu , Sharma Rajni , Kumar Anuj , Raj Namrata
Published: September 2022

Background & objectives:

Obesity is a rising pandemic in childhood. There is scarcity of evidence on the efficacy of yoga in achieving weight loss in overweight/obese children. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of family-based comprehensive yoga intervention in the reduction of body mass index (BMI) in overweight/obese children, in comparison to standard dietary and lifestyle counselling and control group.

Methods:

This was an open-label randomized controlled study. Children aged 8-15 yr who were overweight or had obesity were randomized to one of the three arms for 18 wk; standard weight management (group 1), yoga with dietary modification (group 2) and control (no intervention; group 3). Reduction in BMI and improvement in physiological, biochemical and psychological parameters from baseline to 18 wk was compared between the three arms. Late follow up was also done at 6-12 months.

Results:

A total of 165 children with mean±standard deviation (SD) age of 11.6±1.8 yr and mean BMI 26.3±4.2 kg/m2 were enrolled. Outcome analysis at 18 wk was performed for 109 children. Improved diet quality and reduced intake were observed in both intervention arms. The median (IQR) reduction in BMI in standard and yoga arms was similar [−1.4 (−3.1, −0.5) kg/m2 and −1.2 (−2.3, −0.6) kg/m2, respectively], while it increased by +0.3 (−0.3, 0.1) in the control arm. In the yoga arm, mean systolic BP reduced from 118 (10) to 114 (8) mmHg, (P=0.019). In the standard arm, significant improvement in psychological scores was noted. In group 3, the mean fasting glucose increased from 93±10 to 102±12 mg/dl (P<0.001).

Interpretation & conclusions:

The findings of the present study suggest that yoga in conjunction with dietary modification is equally effective as the standard weight management for BMI reduction in the paediatric age group.
Bilateral putaminal haemorrhages – unearthing a myth, lessons learnt
Authors: Nair Rajesh Parameshwaran , Kongwad Lakshman I , Kumar Vinod , Hegde Ajay , Nayak Raghavendra , Menon R Girish
Published: September 2022

Primary multiple spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhages (MSICHs) are a cryptic entity that is very less understood since they are sparsely encountered in clinical practice. MSICH has been deciphered and defined as 'two discrete primary intracerebral haemorrhage occurring simultaneously or within 24 h since the first identified intracerebral haemorrhage. Primary MSICH is sporadic and has a reported incidence varying from 0.75% to 3% of all spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage; however, the trigger for such bleeds is yet to be ascertained. We present our clinical experience with six cases of MSICHs. A retrospective analysis of data from the Medical Records Department of Kasturba Medical College, Manipal (KMC, Manipal), spanning from 2016 to 2017 and collecting the data of all the patients with the diagnosis of bilateral putaminal haemorrhages who have been treated/operated in KMC, Manipal. SPSS software was used to analyse the data and determines the correlation between the variables. Simultaneous bilateral basal ganglionic bleeds are rare but carry a grave prognosis. The exact pathophysiology is unknown but is probably related to long-standing hypertension. The treatment essentially involves primary prevention with strict control of hypertension and minimising the risk factors. SICH are very rare forms of intracranial bleeds and are often associated with high morbidity and mortality. Often seen in the basal ganglia or thalamus, the mechanism and predisposing factors still remain elusive. The varied clinical presentation and uncertainty in ideal treatment still leave a lot to subjective protocols of individual surgeons. The jury is still out in this matter.
Cerebral Hemispheric Infarct Following Ipsilateral IntraCerebral Haemhorrhage
Authors: Narang Sumeet , Dil Jaspreet Singh , Raja A , Dil Sumeet Kaur
Published: September 2022

The authors report the development of a cerebral hemispheric infarct in a patient who was diagnosed to have an intracerebral haematoma and neurologically worsened in the first 6 h. The occurrence of such a phenomenon is rare and scarcely reported. Possible explanations for the development of ischaemia in such a setting have been discussed based on existing literature.
Role of oral lactoferrin as a source of iron supplementation in correction of anemia in pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease stages 2–4
Authors: El-Farsy Mohamed S. , El-Hakim Ihab Z. , Al-Arian Rawan A.
Published: September 2022

Background

Children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have multiple risk factors for anemia such as primary erythropoietin deficiency, blood loss, decreased red blood cell (RBC) survival, bone marrow suppression, iron deficiency, inflammation and infection, malnutrition, hyperparathyroidism, vitamin B12 and folate deficiency, aluminum toxicity, and carnitine deficiency. This study was performed to evaluate the effect of oral bovine lactoferrin on patients with iron deficiency with CKD stages 2–4.

Patients and methods

This follow-up cohort clinical study was conducted on children with CKD in the conservative clinic, Pediatric Nephrology Unit, Children's Hospital, Ain Shams University. It included 45 pediatric patients with CKD stages from 2 to 4 for 6 months without a control group. This is a follow-up case study in which all the included patients were on erythropoietin therapy ranging from 150 to 300 IU/kg once per week. The patients were subjected to history and laboratory evaluation, including hemoglobin (Hb), serum iron, serum ferritin, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), which were done for the patients at baseline and 6 months after treatment with bovine lactoferrin for 6 months.

Results

Blood Hb and RBC volume were significantly increased beginning from first month after oral lactoferrin therapy, serum iron and serum ferritin were significantly increased 6 months after intervention, and serum TIBC was significantly decreased after intervention. The current study had shown no significant difference between males and females regarding laboratory changes 6 months after intervention. Laboratory improvements were significantly lowest among cases with stage 4, followed by stage 3, and the highest among cases with stage 2. There was a decrease in all anemia clinical manifestations after 6 months of lactoferrin administration; the differences were significant only in easy fatigability, constipation, and gastrointestinal upset, which were the most frequent adverse effects.

Conclusion

Oral lactoferrin was found to be effective in treating iron-deficiency anemia regarding blood Hb, blood RBCs, serum iron, serum ferritin, and TIBC in association with erythropoietin therapy. The effect declines with the progression of CKD.
Sciatic Nerve Hemangioma, a Challenge in Klippel–Trenaunay Syndrome for Perioperative Analgesia
Authors: Gawai Nitin , Bhong Ganesh , Diwan Sandeep , Sancheti Parag
Published: September 2022

Children with Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome have vascular malformations, varicosities at unusual distribution, and unilateral soft and skeletal tissue hypertrophy of the lower extremity. Corrective surgery of the deformity is necessary to improve gait and wear acceptable footwear. Perioperative pain relief for debulking of the right great toe in a known case of KTS with sciatic hemangioma was achieved with ultrasound-guided sciatic nerve block in an avascular area.
Usage of point-of-care Ultrasonography for Rapid Diagnosis of Cardiac Perforation by Pacemaker Lead
Authors: Chen Chia-Ching , Ho Sai-Wai
Published: September 2022

Cardiac perforation after pacemaker placement is a rare form of cardiovascular emergency. A case of an elderly adult undergoing hemodialysis that contributed to this emergency is presented. The history, clinical imaging findings, and surgical procedures for clinical assessment are briefly described. Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) was used to identify, locate, and perform ultrasonography-guided pericardiocentesis. The role of POCUS in cases of tamponade has been emphasized in clinical settings.
Pyogenic Liver Abscesses with an Elevated Carcinoembryonic Antigen Level
Authors: Huang Yao-Kang , Cheng Kui-Lin
Published: September 2022

Serological tumor markers are useful for the detection of malignancies and evaluation of disease progression. These markers are not checked as part of a routine examination for patients with benign diseases and without any clinical suspicion of malignancy. However, some markers appear to be elevated in patients with benign diseases and without malignancies. We present a case of pyogenic liver abscesses with an elevated serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level associated with neither evidence of malignancy nor elevation of other tumor markers such as carbohydrate antigen (CA 19-9) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels. The serological level of CEA decreased and subsequently became within normal limits with treatment. This case also demonstrates that diabetic patients with a liver abscess may present with no infectious symptoms and that fine-needle aspiration is as effective as catheter drainage in the treatment of pyogenic liver abscess.
Association between Serum Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 and Presence of Allostatic Load among Industrial Workers
Authors: Ravibabu Kalahasthi , Nagaraju Raju , Balachandar Rakesh , Adepu Vinay Kumar
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND:

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) mediates metabolic changes and chronic stress. Allostatic load (AL) is an imbalance between repetitive exposure to stress and adaptive response. This study examined the association between FGF21 and the presence of AL among industrial workers.

METHODS:

The study is cross-sectional and observational. Parameters data were collected from 169 male industrial workers. AL was assessed using neuroendocrine (cortisol and Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate), cardiovascular (systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate), metabolic (total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol), and anthropometric (waist-hip ratio and body mass index) measurements. Serum FGF21 was analyzed using the ELISA method. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.

RESULTS:

The results of the study showed that 43.2% and 56.8% of workers had low and high AL, respectively. Serum (natural logarithm) Ln-FGF21 was significantly elevated in workers with high AL when compared to moderate and low AL. The association between serum FGF21 and AL was analyzed using the linear regression model. The model indicated that age (β = 0.143, P = 0.038) and serum FGF21 (β = 0.162, P = 0.045) were significantly associated with AL. In high AL condition, the receiver operating characteristic area under the curve for Ln-FGF21: 0.656 (95% confidence interval: 0.570–0.742, P = 0.001) was found to be higher as compared to moderate and low AL.

CONCLUSIONS:

FGF21 was significantly increased in high AL conditions when compared to low and moderate AL among workers. Therefore, we recommended that FGF21 could be used as a potential biomarker to screen and protect strategy against high AL.
Knowledge and Awareness About Preanesthetic Evaluation for Performing Procedures under General Anesthesia among Dental Students - A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kavitha Pasala , Saikiran Kanamarlapudi Venkata , Elicherla Sainath Reddy , Anchala Karthik , Prasanth Punamalli Symon , Nuvvula Sivakumar
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND:

Lack of knowledge on preanesthetic evaluation before any general anesthesia (GA) procedures will lead to uncertainty in the outcome of the surgery. Hence, the present study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and awareness about preanesthetic evaluation for performing procedures under GA among dental graduates.

METHODS:

A 13-item questionnaire was prepared from the standardized method using focus group discussion. The questionnaires were sent to 1020 students (508 house surgeons, 512 postgraduates) through the registered E-mail address and WhatsApp as a Google form link. We received 246 responses at the end of 2 weeks, and finally, 509 responses were received at the end of 4 weeks. The data from the responses were collected, and descriptive analysis was done using a Microsoft Excel sheet (Version 2016). A Chi-square test was performed to compare the responses from house surgeons and postgraduates.

RESULTS:

A total of 523 responses out of 1020 were received within a period of 4 weeks. From this, 14 responses were excluded from the final analysis due to repeated responses and the final analysis was done using 509 responses (270 postgraduates [53%] and 239 house surgeons [47%]). More than half of the participants had insufficient knowledge regarding preanesthetic evaluation.

CONCLUSION:

The knowledge and awareness were good among the dental postgraduate students compared to house surgeons but implementing that in practice was relatively negligible. Therefore, understanding the importance of preanesthetic evaluation can help the students to reduce potential risk and improves the quality of life among the patients.
Libyan Medical Students' Knowledge, Attitude, and Barrier Toward Clinical Research
Authors: Atia Ahmed , Al-Abbasi Fatima , Benneama Maram , Ammoush Aya , Al-Ghrabi Amani
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND:

Undergraduate involvement in research necessitates better understanding of their potential, as well as the anticipated barriers they will face. The objective of this study was to assess medical undergraduates' knowledge, attitudes, and research barriers.

METHODS:

This was a cross-sectional study conducted on medical students from the University of Tripoli, Libya, where a self-administered questionnaire was used to evaluate the students' knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers. Filled questionnaires were received from the medical undergraduates of different faculties of medical specialties. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS:

A total of completed questionnaires were received from 120 undergraduate medical students. The overall result of knowledge among them was encouragingly good (51%). Majority of the students taught that the main barriers in conducting research were lack of awareness (71.7%), lack of self-interest (56.7%), lack of faculty encouragement for research (84.2%), insufficient time (59.2%), and difficulty in obtaining resources and data for research (68.3%).

CONCLUSION:

Participants in the current study showed a moderate knowledge level with associated positive attitudes toward research. This attitude needs to be transformed into better knowledge and appropriate practice.
DNA Vaccine Construct Formation using Mycobacterium-Specific Gene Inh-A
Authors: Anwar Summayya , Qureshi Javed Anver , Shahzad Mirza Imran , Zaman Muhammad Mohsin , Jilani Aeman
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND:

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a highly contagious disease and a leading cause of death worldwide. It is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium bovis. TB infection is still uncontrolled because of the unavailability of an effective vaccine, co-infection with HIV, lengthy treatment, and the emergence of resistant forms of M. tb like multi/extreme drug resistance strains. TB is mainly a disease of underdeveloped countries because of inadequate health facilities. The development of the new state of modern art vaccine-like DNA vaccine is a promising approach to control TB. The DNA vaccine can be used alone or in combination with Bacille Calmette Guerin (BCG). The objective of the current study is to develop an M. tb gene inh-A based DNA vaccine.

METHODS:

The immunodominant gene (Rv1484/INH-A) was amplified using sequence-specific primers. The amplified product was cloned into Topo 2.1 polymerase chain reaction vector, confirmed through restriction digestion and sequence analysis. Finally, subcloned into mammalian expression pVAX1 vector.

RESULTS:

The inh/A-pVAX1 construct was again confirmed through restriction digestion and sequence analysis. The rightly oriented constructs were selected, and these will be used for in Vivo DNA vaccine immunization studies.

CONCLUSITONS:

DNAvaccine can be used alone or in combination with BCG. DNA vaccines have enough potential to be used with TB treatment and reduce the treatment time in future.
Determination of the Level of Von Willebrand Factor and ADAMTS13 in Sickle Cell Anaemia Patients in Steady State
Authors: Kingsley Akaba , Ofonime Essien , Enobong Uboh , Iquo Ibanga
Published: September 2022

Background:

Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is a hypercoagulable state with alteration in the haemostatic parameters and may contribute to thrombosis in a steady state. The levels of von Willebrand factor (VWF) and ADAMTS13 antigen in the steady state as markers of thrombotic risk have not been fully investigated in our environment.

Aim:

Evaluation of the level of VWF and ADAMTS13 as a marker of thrombotic risk in SCA subjects in the steady state at UCTH, Calabar.

Subjects and Methods:

This is a comparative study carried out at UCTH, Calabar. Sixty SCA patients were evaluated in the steady state with apparently healthy controls matched for age and sex VWF. Ag, and ADAMTS13. Ag was evaluated using Assay Pro enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Data was analysed with IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences Chicago Software version 26.

Results:

The median age of SCA and controls were 23 years and 20 years, respectively (P = 0.962). There were no significant differences in their sex distribution (P = 0.063). The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of VWF in the steady state and control were 1.34 ± 0.23 IU/mL and 1.41 ± 0.23 IU/mL with no significant difference in their mean (P = 0.864). The mean ± SD of ADAMTS13 in the steady state and control were 0.44 ± 0.06 μg/L and 0.62 ± 0.10 μg/L, respectively, with no significant difference in their mean (P = 0.171).

Conclusion:

There was no significant difference between VWF. Ag, ADAMTS13, and VWF. Ag: ADAMTS13 antigen ratio in SCA in the steady state and control. There is a need for further research to determine their functionality.
Remineralization Activities of Toothpastes with and without Aloe Vera with Different Ratios of Fluoride on Demineralized Enamel
Authors: Yikici C , Özcan S
Published: September 2022

AIM and Background:

The aim of this in-vitro study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of both pure aloe vera and commercially available toothpastes with different fluoride compounds and different fluoride amounts on artificial initial enamel lesions by Vicker's microhardness values. In the study, 72 extracted human molar teeth were divided into mesiodistal and 144 specimens were prepared using the vestibule and palatal/lingual surfaces of the teeth. After the surface treatments and initial microhardness measurements, all the specimens were placed in a demineralizing solution (pH: 4.5) for 7 days, resulting in artificial initial enamel lesion, and were randomly assigned to eight groups (n = 18). After the teeth were subjected to pH cycle for 14 days, microhardness measurements were repeated and the data were recorded.

Materials and Methods:

Statistical analyzes were performed using MedCalc Statistical Software version 12.7.7. The significance level was determined to be 0.05.

Results:

In the statistical results, when the microhardness values after demineralization and post-cycle were compared, Groups B1 and A2 showed the lowest values, while Groups A3 and B3 did not show a significant difference in terms of microhardness values after demineralization and post-cycle, and only Group B4 showed statistically significantly higher values.

Conclusions:

This study emphasized the remineralization effects of fluoride on initial enamel lesions. It can be said that toothpaste containing 1450 ppm fluoride and aloe vera provides an effective remineralization and sodium monofluorophosphate formulation may have a synergistic effect with aloe vera.