bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Female Radicalization
Authors: Gigauri Tinatin
Published: November 2022

This chapter discusses the phenomenon of female radicalization based on a case study of the Islamic State. The goal of this chapter is to explore the connection and, possibly, the correlation between the uneven and inconsistent security context and the transformation of gender norms and deeply-rooted gendered segregation inside a jihadist organization through qualitative desk research. Using aspects of securitization theory and a human security paradigm, the research elaborates on the changing politico-military tendencies targeting the Islamic State since the declaration of the War on Terror, the dynamics of changing the strictly domestic role of women inside ISIS, the roles performed by female recruits in the organization, the threat they pose as participants of military jihad, and the propensity of existing counterterrorism measures to ignore the significance of female terrorists. Finally, with proper arguments, the chapter argues that there is a need for implementing a gendered approach to designing case-appropriate counterterrorism strategies.
Organized Crime as One of the Main Reflections of Terrorism in the Modern World
Authors: Kervalishvili Irakli
Published: November 2022

At the end of the 20th century, security concern went beyond interstate cooperation and disarmament issues. With the development of the globalization process, organized crime became a bigger topic. According to several estimates, since the 1980s, the number of criminal acts, having been carried out within organized crime, has increased by 5% annually. Members of organized criminal groups gain huge income. By estimates, which were presented in 1999, the total amount of so-called dirty money in the world was from 500 to 1500 billion dollars per year, which was equal to 5% of the world GDP during this period. In 2009 it was estimated to generate $870 billion – an amount equal to 1.5% of global GDP for this period. As of 2016, transnational crime was a $1.6 trillion to $2.2 trillion annual “business.”
Basic Concepts of Manipulator Robot Control
Authors: Benameur Sara , Tadrist Sara , Mellal Mohamed Arezki , Williams Edward J.
Published: November 2022

Robots presently occupy a large place in diverse activities. The robots currently in service are manipulator-type robots. They are often used in modern manufacturing processes to increase the production volume as well as to improve the quality of the product. This type of robot consists of a base, a carrier composed of segments, mobile joints expressed in the degree of freedom (rotoid and prismatic), actuator, sensor, and terminal organ. It is known that these systems have defects, such as insufficient accuracy, very slow reaction time, and instability. Furthermore, to adjust them, control systems are used: classic, dynamic, and adaptive. These commands need geometric, kinematic, and dynamic modeling of the studied systems. Most often, non-linear systems are transformed into linear systems using linearization methods. This chapter presents a short overview of robot manipulator control.
Active Vibration Control of a Flexible Manipulator With Velocity Feedback
Authors: Yavuz Şahin , Akgöl Doğukan , Biricik Gökçe Naz
Published: November 2022

In this study, active vibration control of a single-link flexible manipulator has been performed. Residual vibrations affect the end-point positioning accuracy of the manipulator. To control residual vibration amplitudes, closed loop control scheme has been effectuated. Velocity feedback of the desired endpoint has been carried out and traditional proportional-integral (PI) Control has been applied. The mathematical model of the flexible manipulator has been established by the finite element method (FEM). The FEM results in modal analysis have been verified by the experimental results and then, the transient analysis has been realized by the Newmark method. Different velocity profiles have been applied to the manipulator to demonstrate the effect of PI controller on vibration amplitudes. The root mean square values and steady-state time have been calculated presented for different cases. It is observed from the results that the residual vibration amplitudes of the manipulators are successfully suppressed by the proportional-integral control gains.
Advances of the Robotics Technology in Modern Minimally Invasive Surgery
Authors: Barua Ranjit , Bhowmik Sumit , Dey Arghya , Mondal Jaydeep
Published: November 2022

Currently, numerous robotically controlled steerable needle-based methods have been offered, which can precisely maintain needle tip deflection to monitor premeditated curved paths inside soft tissue. Percutaneous interventions via MIS methods can deliver patients with improved consequences and earlier recovery times than traditional or open surgeries. Precise needle insertions are important for effective procedures, and dynamically piloted needles can intensify system exactness. Current robotic technology can overcome individuals' limitations and upturn the attainment of minimally invasive percutaneous treatment. Needle insertion can also be applied as a “satellite access” area, and parallel calculus can be pushed or broken into the renal pelvis. The main access is applied for the removal of stones, in that way avoiding the formation of various channels and efficiently caring for kidney function. Here, the authors will present the present state-of-the-art insertion needles for MIS, concentrating on the limitations and challenges still open for their application in the medical area.
Deep Learning and Analysis of Cardiovascular Imaging
Authors: Castillo-Rivera Salvador , Castillo-Rivera Ana María
Published: November 2022

Artificial intelligence in the healthcare field has gotten the attention of professionals and researchers because the automated analysis of medical images can enhance diagnosis and therapy considerably. Deep learning (DL) puts forwards tools to deal with this kind of problem. Data science is presumable to address significant changes in the study of cardiovascular imaging allowing change appreciably in the next years encouraged by this learning. For medical professionals, it is fundamental to keep track of the development to make sure that it can have a significant impact on clinical practice. DL in medical image analysis is an interdisciplinary area that requires the support of medical experience and computer techniques. Nevertheless, the optimal clinical application of DL needs tricky formulation of problems, selection of the most proper algorithms and data, and balanced interpretation of outcomes. A current challenge comes from echocardiography. The need for human interpretation has restricted echocardiography's capability for precision medicine.
Implementing E-Marketing in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises for Enhanced Sustainability
Authors: Denga Edna Mngusughun
Published: November 2022

E-marketing is a strategic marketing approach that has revolutionized how marketing is executed by transitioning from traditional to internet-based platforms. It has significantly altered how firms interact with their customers. To provide insights and offer guidance for the growth and development of e-marketing among SMEs, the chapter explored the organizational, technological, and environmental elements that may drive the adoption of e-marketing, as well as models that can be implemented to enhance e-marketing. A thorough analysis of the literature revealed a significant positive association between sustainable marketing strategy and SME performance, indicating that sustainability is significantly influenced by the level of customer satisfaction, customer loyalty, and profitability.
Electronic Government
Authors: Baimukhamedova Aizhan , Baimukhamedov Malik
Published: November 2022

Е-government is based on electronic document management systems, state management automation systems, and other information and communication systems. A description of four е-government models—Continental European model, Anglo-American model, Asian model, and Russian model—are reviewed. The basis for the creation of the е-government portal is the Decree of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated November 10, 2004, Nº 1471 “On state program of formation of Е-government in the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2005-2007.” Е-government supports the following goals: creating new forms of interaction between government agencies, optimizing the provision of government services to the public and businesses, supporting and expansion of citizens' self-service capabilities, increasing technological awareness and skills of citizens, and increasing the degree of participation of all voters in the processes of governance and management of the country.
Digital Transformation in Small and Medium Businesses in Vietnam
Authors: Truong Nguyen Xuan , My Dang Van
Published: November 2022

Digital transformation has become a real trend taking place strongly in the business community. Enterprises in general and small and medium-sized enterprises in particular have quickly adapted to digital technologies and gradually implemented the process of digital transformation and digitization of their business processes. The picture of digital transformation in small and medium-sized enterprises is shown through general approaches from integrated theories and test models directly related to the digital transformation process. The first is an overview of digital transformation in small and medium-sized enterprises, showing the picture that the business community has been implementing the digital transformation process. Empirical research results are presented in the next section related to the relationship between the factors affecting the application of digital transformation by small and medium enterprises in the context of Vietnam by mixed research method.
Leadership for Sustainability in Higher Education Amidst the COVID-19 Crisis
Authors: Meletiadou Eleni
Published: November 2022

Through assisted thematic content analyses of 40 female educational leaders' interviews, the chapter investigates the crisis management and leadership practices which foster sustainable development in higher education from their perspective. Drawing on diversity, gender, and upper echelon theories, the authors propose that the addition of unique female perspectives and leadership styles will afford gender-diverse senior leadership teams (SLTs) a leadership capability advantage over equally talented yet homogeneous male teams. This link between gender diversity and leadership capability is more pronounced in times of crisis such as the current pandemic. The study suggests that increasing female representation in SLTs may have a substantial and direct impact on overall leadership capabilities and elicit positive performance effects in times of crisis. Notably, and unique to this study, they show that feminine traits and inclusive leadership styles may be more efficacious in contemporary leadership contexts than generally believed.
Using Virtual Professional Learning Communities to Foster Sustainable Learning and Close the Awarding Gap in Higher Education Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Meletiadou Eleni
Published: November 2022

In the current study, a combination of synchronous and asynchronous online strategies has been used to support undergraduate students at a University in the UK, as VPLC embraces individual students' needs for learning development and professional growth through peer support building community among the student population. The intent of this research study was to unravel students' perceptions of the benefits and the challenges that VPLC may have amid the pandemic. An exploratory anonymous survey design was employed to explore their impact. Students were also asked to provide anonymous feedback at regular intervals during the implementation using Mentimeter. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to examine the data. Findings suggest that VPLCs can be used as a means to support students through collaboration, peer mentoring/coaching, networking, and sharing of resources.
Facilitating an Online and Sustainable Learning Environment for Cloud Computing Using an Action Research Methodology
Authors: Gill Sukhpal Singh , Cabral Ana , Fuller Stephanie , Chen Yue , Uhlig Steve
Published: November 2022

In this chapter, a research plan is presented to investigate online teaching and evaluation analysis for cloud computing using an action research methodology to enable sustainable learning environment. Using online teaching, the authors planned to conduct a thorough evaluation of student learning implementation in order to identify both merits and challenges. An investigation of the authors' own teaching and learners' understanding while working together as a team on a cloud computing project has assisted in finding the perfect methods for improving both. Further, the authors used action research methodology to analyze the literature and scholarship critically and designed best practices for action plan to facilitate an online and sustainable learning environment for cloud computing. Moreover, possible ethical concerns have been considered as students worked in a team for a group project. Finally, they have discussed the plans for monitoring and evaluation of the action and impact assessment.
Exploring Drivers and Barriers of Accounting Students' Motivation for Non-Financial Information
Authors: Domingos Alexandra , Albuquerque Fábio , Dias Ana Isabel
Published: November 2022

Recent developments related to non-financial information (NFI) reporting encourage the adoption of a long-term vision approach to sustainable development. In turn, the self-determination theory (SDT) describes which elements explain the students' motivation and how their skills can be better developed from their choices. Using NFI as the subject and the SDT as the theoretical framework, this chapter links both topics aiming to identify the types of students' motivation and for what specific interests are accounting students motivated to learn topics related to NFI. Data were gathered from a questionnaire. The results, using frequency and textual analyses, indicate a higher level of intrinsic motivation. Environmental and social matters are the topics of concern, while governance issues are absent. As an exploratory analysis, this chapter provides insights into how students of an accounting course are motivated to acquire skills in NFI reporting, which is particularly relevant to higher education institutions, professors, students, and organizations related to accountancy education.
Sustainability Education Beyond the Classroom
Authors: Wadham Helen , Hart Clare , Hashmi Anita , Kettleborough Helena Mary , Marron Roz , Randles Sally , Skritsovali Konstantina , Tucker Megan
Published: November 2022

This chapter explores how the authors expanded their teaching and learning beyond the classroom at Manchester Metropolitan University in the UK. It puts forward the theoretical concept of the “exploding university” as a way to help develop a critical yet hopeful understanding of collective problems at local and global scales. This helps them explore three interrelated initiatives that brought teachers, students, and communities together, namely a sustainability festival, research project on animal rehoming, and community tree-planting drive. The chapter illuminates how exploding the work beyond the classroom enabled everyone involved to take action on the challenges that matter to them, while also developing a “collective intelligence” about their underlying causes. The exploding university thus emerges as a theoretical and practical model, which we can use to inspire students to actively critique, reimagine, and reconstruct the world around them. The authors conclude by encouraging and supporting others who might wish to embark on similar journeys themselves.
Making Digital Money “Work” for Low-Income Users
Authors: Muralidhar Srihari Hulikal
Published: November 2022

This paper adds to the research on digitization and money in HCI. By presenting a case of rickshaw drivers in India and their use of Ola, an app-based taxi service like Uber, and Ola Money, an embedded m-wallet, this paper makes a threefold contribution. First, it shows how cash and digital money are not simply different manifestations of the ‘same' money for users. They provide distinct affordances and have different meanings and values, yielding rich insights for design. Second, it seeks to highlight the hidden work done by users around making digital money ‘work' for them. In doing so, it calls for a broader understanding of ‘moneywork' that goes beyond a temporal analysis, through the concept of ‘mobility work'. Finally, it highlights the role of ‘friction' in design. Friction is crucial to users' negotiation of the trade-off between consumption and saving, and can be leveraged to provoke reflection and user-awareness.
Analysis of the Performance of Microfinance Institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Jones-Esan Lawrence Jide
Published: November 2022

This chapter examines the performance of microfinance institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa through observations from different perspectives. It examined the effects of microfinance institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa. Relevant literature on the sustainability and outreach of microfinance institutions are also analysed in this chapter. Sub-Saharan Africa's future achievement of necessary economic growth is very likely to depend partly on its ability to develop its economic and financial sectors to be more inclusive of small and medium enterprises in a more comprehensive way. Currently, microfinance directly promotes the development of the intermediate financial sector in Africa, which is positively correlated with economic growth. Despite the worsening of the current industrial crisis, microfinance is seen as an essential developmental tool and continues to grow in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Integral na reta com Álgebra Linear: caso particular
Authors:   Fatec-Carapicuíba e Faculdade Mário Schenberg, Cotia, SP, Vieira Anderson da Silva
Published: November 2022

O objetivo principal desse material é apresentar ao leitor uma maneira de calcular a integral na reta, para um caso particular, usando as definições e resultados que são desenvolvidos em um curso de Álgebra Linear.
Phytosomal curcumin alleviates collagen-induced arthritis by downregulating Th17 and upregulating Treg cell responses in rats
Authors: Ramezani Mahnaz , Zainodini Nahid , Nosratabadi Reza , Yousefpoor Yaser , Taghipour Zahra , Abbasifard Mitra , Rahmani Mohammad Reza
Published: November 2022

Objective:

To explore the effects of a nano-formulation of curcumin (phytosomal curcumin) on the clinical and pathological symptoms of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in rats.

Methods:

Forty male Wistar rats were immunized with an emulsion containing bovine type II collagen and incomplete Freund's adjuvant and then administered phytosomal curcumin post-immunization. Clinical symptoms and histological analysis of the synovial tissues were performed. The effect of phytosomal curcumin on Th17 and Treg parameters was also evaluated.

Results:

Phytosomal curcumin reduced the clinical severity and paw swelling in CIA-induced rats, which was accompanied by a reduction in the number of inflammatory cell infiltration in the synovial tissue. Additionally, treatment with phytosomal curcumin significantly inhibited CIA-associated mediators as well as increased the anti-inflammatory mediators in comparison to the control groups.

Conclusions:

Phytosomal curcumin could improve CIA autoimmune responses and can be considered a potential candidate for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Acanthus leucostachyus leaf extracts promote excision wound healing in mice
Authors: Dev Deepjyoti , Sarkar Ashish , Roy Bishnupada
Published: November 2022

Objective:

To evaluate thein vivowound healing activity ofAcanthus leucostachyusleaf extracts using an excision wound model in mice.

Methods:

Mice were divided into two groups of six animals in each group: the control group and theAcanthus leucostachyusextract-treated group. Healing potential was evaluated by determination of physical parameters (contraction rate, epithelialization period, and tensile strength), biochemical parameters (protein, DNA, and hydroxyproline content), the expression of growth factor and proinflammatory cytokines, as well as histological and ultrastructural observations.

Results:

Treatment withAcanthus leucostachyusleaf extracts markedly increased the rate of wound contraction, tensile strength, the concentrations of protein, DNA, and hydroxyproline, and the expression of growth factor, as well as promoted epithelialization, compared to the control. In addition,Acanthus leucostachyusleaf extracts significantly reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Histological and ultrastructural studies revealed the presence of thicker epithelial layer and smoother surface topography in the extract-treated group compared to the control.

Conclusions:

Acanthus leucostachyusleaf extracts show potent wound-healing activity and can be used as a wound healing agent.
Gait Training with Robotic Exoskeleton Assisted Rehabilitation System in Patients with Incomplete Traumatic and Non-Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Gupta Anupam , Prakash Naveen B. , Honavar Preethi R.
Published: November 2022

Objective:

This pilot study aimed to assess the safety and feasibility of robotic gait training and its' effects on gait parameters in individuals with incomplete motor spinal cord injury-SCI (AIS C and AIS D).

Methods:

The study was conducted in a tertiary research center with indigenously developed Robotic Exoskeleton Assisted Rehabilitation Systems (REARS). Primary outcome measures used were the ten-meter walk test (10MWT), two-minute walk test (2MWT), six-minute walk test (6MWT), the timed up and go test (TUG), the walking index for spinal cord injury II (WISCI II), and the spinal cord independence measure version III (SCIM III) at baseline, 12 sessions, and after 24 sessions (endpoint) of training. At baseline, individuals who could not perform 10MWT, TUG, and 6MWT were grouped in G1 for analysis. Participants in G2 were able to perform all the tests at baseline.

Results:

The median (interquartile range [IQR]) age and duration of illness was 41 (24) years and 167 (147) days, respectively. Five out of seven participants had non-traumatic etiology and five were males. After completing training, participants in G1 were able to complete the 10MWT, 6MWT, and TUG, and the mean (SD) scores were 0.2 m/s (0.2), 66.3 m (61.2) and 113.3 s (117.4), respectively. Participants in G2 could perform the TUG test 13.5 s faster at the end of the study (11.9 s vs 25.4 s). The minimum clinically important difference (MCID) for TUG was 10.8 s. In G2, the pre-post training change in mean score of 10MWT and 6MWT was 0.11 m/s and 42 m, respectively; these values approached the MCID for these measures. None of the participants had any injury during training.

Conclusions:

Robotic gait training with REARS is safe and feasible. Such training may lead to an improvement in balance and walking capacity.
The Overlap in Neuroimaging Findings Between Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy
Authors: Önder Halil , Kocer Bilge , Turan Aynur , Kertmen Hayri , Comoglu Selcuk
Published: November 2022

Background:

The neuroimaging findings of brain stem atrophy resembling progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) radiology are common in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) subjects. Besides, recent studies report the existence of iNPH-like MRI findings in PSP subjects. We aimed to comparatively investigate the neuroimaging indices of iNPH and PSP in our patient groups in a detailed methodology.

Methods:

Ultimately, 19 probable PSP patients and 18 patients with a definite diagnosis of iNPH were enrolled. The subjects were recruited retrospectively from those who had been admitted between 2017 and 2021 to the Movement Disorders Polyclinic and the Neurosurgery Clinic of the Diskapi Yildirim Beyazit Training and Education Hospital. MRI-based DESH score, Evans index, and the callosal angle (CA) have been calculated in all the individuals. Besides, quantitative MRI parameters of PSP were evaluated in every subject. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 26.

Results:

The comparative analyses regarding the radiological parameters of PSP did not reveal any difference between patient groups. On the other hand, the comparisons of the neuroimaging parameters of iNPH, yielded differences in the CA, CA score, and the total DESH score. However, the ROC curve analyses did not reveal a discriminative power at a value of “very good” or “excellent” in any of the indices.

Conclusions:

We found that the neuroimaging features of iNPH and PSP highly overlapped between these patient groups. These results may provide indirect evidence regarding the coexistence of PSP and iNPH pathophysiology that has been deliberated in several recent reports.
Exploring Novel Word Learning Via Fast Mapping and Explicit Encoding in Persons with Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Mohan Mohan P , Menon Ramshekhar N. , Goswami Satyapal Puri , Thomas Sanjeev V. , Cherian Ajith , Radhakrishnan Ashalatha
Published: November 2022

Objective:

To explore novel word learning via fast mapping (FM) and explicit encoding (EE) in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE).

Methods:

16 right and 16 left temporal lobe epilepsy (RTLE and LTLE) patients along with 32 normal controls (NC) underwent learning of 24 novel object name pairs through standard FM and EE techniques. Their learning was assessed via a three-choice alternate delayed recognition task on the day of learning and on the following day. Recognition scores were compared using nonparametric statistics across the groups with P value set at <.05.

Results:

RTLE and NC performed similarly, while LTLE and NC differed significantly in novel word learning irrespective of the method of encoding. LTLE and RTLE differed in EE-based novel word learning alone. Further, with respect to encoding techniques, all groups performed better on EE compared to FM. The novel word associations learned via FM showed a lesser decline compared to EE following overnight integration in RTLE and NC.

Conclusion:

Novel word learning via FM did not facilitate learning above EE in TLE patients or NC. But FM-based words could better overcome forgetting following overnight integration in RTLE and NC. Hence, it is possible that FM has the potential to improve retention of novel information following overnight integration in RTLE as in NC. However, its efficacy in improving retention in LTLE needs further evidence.
Caregiver burden in caregivers of stroke survivors
Authors: Kumar Anand , Yadav Ajay Kumar , Singh Varun Kumar , Pathak Abhishek , Chaurasia Rameshwar Nath , Mishra Vijaya Nath , Joshi Deepika
Published: November 2022

Background:

A principal caregiver (CG) is directly affected by the patient's health problems leading to CG strain. In the present study, we evaluated the different factors related to increased CG burden in stroke survivors and assessed the relationship between patient's personal and clinical characteristics and CG's stress.

Material and Methods:

In this prospective, follow-up study, a total of 141 principle CGs of 164 First-ever stroke (FES) survivors were subjected to the Caregivers Strain Index (CSI) and Oberst Caregiving Burden Scale (OCBS) at 30 days (n = 141), 90 days (n = 129), and 6 months (n = 119) after informed consent. Patients were subjected to modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Barthel index score assessment at the end of 30 days.

Results:

The mean age of CG was 49.8 ± 21.0 years, approximately 20 years lesser than that of the patients. 102 (72.34%) CGs were females. Urinary incontinence (p < 0.006) morbidity at 30 days, mRS (p = 0.004), and moderate to the severe neurological deficit on admission (p = 0.003) were the patient factors in FES cases leading to significant CGs stress. CG factors responsible for major stress were long caregiving hours (P < 0.001), anxiety (P < 0.001), disturbed night sleep (P < 0.001), financial stress (P < 0.001), younger age (P = 0.002), and CGs being daughters-in-law (P = 0.039).

Conclusion:

CG burden increases with increased severity of stroke. Integrated stroke rehabilitation services should also address CGs issues along with patients.
Expressed Emotion among Families of Individuals with Alcohol Dependence Syndrome
Authors: Shetty Kannappa V. , Manikappa Sanjeev Kumar , Murthy Shreyaa , Anjanappa Jagadish , Rawat Vikram Singh
Published: November 2022

Background:

Alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS) is a progressive condition stemming from severe alcohol use, where the person becomes increasingly reliant on alcohol, loses control over its use and will have to increase the quantity of consumption to get the same effect, making it extremely difficult to stop. This affects various aspects of a person's life such as the physical health, financial, interpersonal, social, and ethical life. It also induces negative behaviors such as aggressiveness, risk-taking attitudes such as drunken driving, legal issues, and withdrawal from the responsibilities at work and household. Even if the person decides to stop, various stressors might make them fall back into the same habit. Criticality, hostility, and emotional overinvolvement of the family members toward the patients of ADS, commonly referred to as expressed emotion (EE), are some of the major causes for relapse

Materials and Methods:

The sample comprised 31 subjects, who were selected convenience sampling. The data were collected at a private tertiary care neuropsychiatry hospital, Bengaluru. Ethics approval and informed consent were taken. Family Emotional Involvement and Criticism Scale and sociodemographic schedule were used.

Results:

The perceived criticism was found to be higher (24.6 ± 1.94) than emotional overinvolvement (18 ± 4.48) among ADS caregivers, and the total score of the EE revealed that there was higher score (42.06 ± 5.2) than the average score of the scale.

Conclusion:

The study highlights the need for addressing EE in the families of patients with ADS and to plan for comprehensive psychosocial interventions.
Wilson’s Disease Presents as Recurrent Hypokalemic Muscle Paralysis
Authors: Shankar Mythri , Nayaka Monica , Aralapuram Kishan , Gurusiddaiah Sreedhara C.
Published: November 2022

A 21-year-old euthyroid gentleman born to nonconsanguineous parents was diagnosed with bipolar affective disorder. He presented 4 years later with hypokalemic quadriparesis. On evaluation, he was found to have features of both proximal and distal renal tubular acidosis. Ophthalmologic examination by slit lamp confirmed the presence of the Kayser–Fleischer ring. The diagnosis of Wilson’s disease was established with serum ceruloplasmin levels and 24-h urinary copper levels.Here is a rare clinical presentation of Wilson’s disease in the form of hypokalemic muscle paralysis due to proximal renal tubular acidosis with distal tubule involvement. The diagnosis was delayed due to the initial presentation with psychiatric symptoms.
Preemptive Analgesia with Wound Infiltration Using Bupivacaine with Dexmedetomidine and Bupivacaine Alone for Postoperative Analgesia in Abdominal Hysterectomy
Authors: Shelwatkar Priyanka Balwant , Kshirsagar Sujit Jagannath , Bhalerao Pradnya Milind
Published: November 2022

Background:

The administration of local anesthetics into the wound before the incision (preemptive analgesia) has been demonstrated to reduce postoperative pain.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to determine the quality of postoperative analgesia in abdominal hysterectomy by visual analog scale (VAS) in the group of 0.125% bupivacaine 15 ml with dexmedetomidine 1 μg/kg and in the group of 0.125% bupivacaine 15 ml alone.

Settings and Design:

A prospective observational analytical study was conducted in a tertiary care government hospital including 80 patients undergoing hysterectomy divided into two groups of 40 each.

Subjects and Methods:

Group A included those patients who received 0.125% bupivacaine 15 ml with dexmedetomidine 1 μg/kg and Group B patients received bupivacaine 15 ml alone. The pain was assessed by VAS. Rescue analgesia was given with diclofenac sodium 75 mg intramuscular on demand or whenever the VAS score was ≥4. The level of sedation was assessed using the four-point Sedation Scale. Nausea and vomiting were assessed by four-point categorical scales.

Statistical Analysis:

Mean and standard deviation were used to depict quantitative data, and paired t-test was used to compare the groups.

Results:

The combination of bupivacaine with dexmedetomidine has a better and longer anesthetic effect than bupivacaine alone (P < 0.001). The total diclofenac consumption in Group A was less (95.63 [±33.92] mg) than in Group B (150 [±0.0] mg), P < 0.01. Group A rescue analgesia was required after 2 h in only one (2.5%) patient, whereas in Group B, rescue analgesia was required immediately at 0 h in six (15%) patients (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

The duration of analgesia was longer, and number of doses of rescue analgesia during the first 24 h after operation was significantly less in the group who received bupivacaine with dexmedetomidine when compared with bupivacaine alone.
Hair in the Wrong Place
Authors: Anand Raghvi , Kanagamuthu Priya
Published: November 2022

Introduction:

The preauricular sinus is a congenital abnormality which was initially identified by Van Heusinger in 1864. Preauricular sinus development is strongly related to the development of auricle in the sixth week of pregnancy. Preauricular sinus can be inherited or are sporadic. Most cases are sporadic and over half of all cases are unilateral. Bilateral cases are more frequent in inherited cases.

Case Report:

A 10 year old boy was brought with complaints of discharge from left pre auricular region on and off since birth. History of frequent episodes of discharge from left pre auricular region about 2-3 episodes per year. Local examination showed preauricular sinus tract at the root of helix on both sides. There was no discharge, no warmth, no tenderness. The child underwent necessary investigations and pre aneasthetic fitness was obtained. Pre auricular sinus tract excision on left side under general anasthesia was done. Multiple sinus tracts were excised and sent for histopathological examination which showed evidence of pilonidal sinus. There was presence of sinus tract line by epidermis, lumen filled with keratin and hair shafts. The child was brought for follow up on postoperative day 10, the sutured site was found to be healthy. Suture removal was done and the wound was healing well. The child is on regular follow up and has shown no signs of any recurrence.

Discussion:

The only definite treatment of recurrent infective sinuses is complete excision of the sinus tract. In our case, supra aural elliptical incision was placed and all visible sinus tracts were cleared and sent for histopathological analysis. When these sinuses get infected, most frequent cause being with gram-positive bacteria, the exudates should be sent for culture, and the appropriate antibiotics should be administered. The temporalis fascia, the cartilage of the helix, and the auditory canal are identified using the supra-auricular approach. An en bloc excision of the sinus is then carried out. Pilonidal sinus is a difficult condition that causes suffering and embarrassment to its victims. Despite it being rare and atypical, pilonidal sinus could also occur in the auricular region. Although pilonidal sinus has been reported in a number of uncommon areas of the body besides the sacrococcygeal region, this is the second case of pilonidal sinus that we are aware of in the preauricular region that is reported in literature.

Conclusion:

Thus we present a very rare case of pilonidal sinus in pre auricular region. Only two cases have been reported till date in literature and our case is the second one to be reported in the pre auricular region.
Alterations in Brain Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography Perfusion Pattern Pre- and Post-Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Tinnitus Participants
Authors: Hekmat Sepideh , Hedayati Raheleh , Mahmoudian Saeid , Teimourinejad Fatemeh , Malek Hadi , Yaghoobi Nahid , Rastgoo Fereydoun , Firuzabadi Hassan , Kalantari Forough
Published: November 2022

Background and Aim:

It have been shown that changes in organization of high stimulation related to tinnitus in special areas in brain can be eliminated using protocols based on transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). The current study aims to assess the pattern of brain perfusion and effects of TMS on brain activity in tinnitus participants as measured by single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) as well as evaluate the efficacy of TMS on severity of tinnitus.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional randomized clinical trial, which was performed in 15 patients that referred to tinnitus clinic of Rasoul Akram Hospital during March 2017 to April 2018. These participant were randomly divided into two groups of active treatment with TMS and placebo. In each studied group, the variables of the brain perfusion, tinnitus handicap index (THI), pitch-matching test, loudness match of tinnitus, minimum masking level, and residual inhibition were investigated for all included tinnitus participants before and after TMS.

Results:

In all tinnitus participants, we had increased uptake in temporal lobes (unilateral or bilateral). In active treatment group, SPECT variables in hotspots were significantly decreased in comparison with placebo group (P < 0.05). Visual analog scale of tinnitus was significantly decreased in active group rather than placebo group (P = 0.023).

Conclusion:

Our findings showed that tinnitus patients have abnormal brain perfusion increased uptake in temporal lobes that decreased with treatment with TMS and therefore this modality could be an appropriate therapeutic option for the improvement of tinnitus in these patients and efficacy of therapy could assessed by brain perfusion scan as well.
Recurrent Oncocytic Papilloma of the Middle Ear
Authors: Koda Tadayoshi , Shigihara Shuntaro
Published: November 2022

Schneiderian papillomas commonly occur in the nasal sinuses and septal mucosa. This type of papilloma rarely develops in the middle ear, with only 51 previously reported cases. The oncocytic papilloma (OP) subtype is even rarer, with only seven cases. We present a case of primary OP in the middle ear that recurred during long-term postoperative follow-up. The patient was a 31-year-old man who experienced papilloma recurrence after three surgeries. These recurrences appeared as a shadow on computed tomography. No recurrence has been observed since his fourth surgery. Our review showed increased recurrence and malignant transformation rates in inverted papillomas that occur in the middle ear. In contrast, OPs occurring in the middle ear were reported to have a high recurrence rate and no malignant transformation. Close and careful follow-up is necessary for any type of papilloma.
Clinical, etiological profile and outcomes of convulsive refractory and non-refractory status epilepticus at a tertiary care centre
Authors: Gopaal Nishant , Bagri Dhan Raj , Sharma Jagdish Narayan
Published: November 2022

Introduction:

Epidemiological data on childhood status epilepticus (SE) limited in India. This study depicts clinical profiles, etiology, and outcomes of convulsive refractory SE (RSE) and compares the results with cases of nonrefractory SE (NRSE).

Subjects and Methods:

This observational, cross-sectional study enrolled 300 children aged 1 month to 18 years, presenting with convulsive SE at a tertiary care hospital. Details of children who progressed to RSE were compared to those without RSE.

Results:

In the acute symptomatic etiology group, common causes for RSE were central nervous system infections (33.8%), cryptogenic etiology (13.8%), and remote symptomatic etiology (7%). RSE iwas associated with a higher rate of complications (58% Vs 24%) as compared to NRSE. Thirty percent of cases that progressed to RSE needed ventilator support as compared to only 8% of cases in the NRSE group. RSE was also associated with higher rates of shock (25%), AKI (16%), transaminitis (25%), acute liver failure (5.69%), multiple organ dysfunction score (12.6%), and acidosis (53%) as compared to NRSE. RSE was associated with higher mortality (28%) and morbidity (32%) as compared to NRSE cases. Cryptogenic etiology led to the highest mortality (33.3%) in cases of RSE while acute symptomology was associated with the highest morbidity (62%).

Conclusions:

RSE is a serious pediatric emergency that requires prompt recognition and management. Clinical knowledge and early administration of appropriate antiepileptic drugs at health-care facilities is the key to reduce morbidity and mortality.
Joubert Syndrome Presented as Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Mamun Abdullah Al , Santa Samina Masud , Jesmin Tahmina , Sharmim Mst Shanjida , Huque Syed Saimul , Roy Ranjit R. , Begum Afroza
Published: November 2022

Joubert syndrome (JS) is a rare disorder affecting the multisystem of the body. It involves defects in the cerebellar vermis, abnormal eye movement, renal aplasia/hypoplasia, and polydactyle. Here is a report of a 9-year-old boy suffering from JS presented as chronic kidney disease.
Self-Reported Symptoms at Last Febrile Illness as a Predictor of Treatment-Seeking in Western Kenya: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Madera-Garcia Valerie , Coalson Jenna E. , Subelj Maja , Bell Melanie L. , Hayden Mary H. , Agawo Maurice , Munga Stephen , Ernst Kacey C.
Published: November 2022

Timely treatment-seeking behavior can reduce morbidity and mortality due to infectious diseases. Patterns of treatment-seeking behavior can differ by access to health care, and perceptions of disease severity and symptoms. We evaluated the association between self-reported symptoms at last illness and the level of treatment-seeking behaviors. We analyzed cross-sectional data from 1,037 participants from the lowlands and highlands of Western Kenya from 2015 using logistic regression models. There was considerable heterogeneity in the symptoms and treatment-seeking behaviors reported among individuals who were febrile at their last illness. A greater number of self-reported categories of symptoms tended to be associated with a higher likelihood of treatment-seeking in both sites. Participants were significantly more likely to seek treatment if they reported fever, aches, and digestive symptoms at last illness than just fever and aches or fever alone, but the frequency of treatment-seeking for fever in combination with aches and respiratory symptoms did not follow a consistent pattern. Among those who sought treatment, most used a formal source, but the patterns were inconsistent across sites and by the number of symptoms categories. Understanding the drivers of treatment-seeking behavior after febrile illness is important to control and treat infectious diseases in Kenya.
Longitudinal and Cross-sectional Analyses of Asymptomatic HIV-1/Malaria Co-infection in Kisumu County, Kenya
Authors: Oyieko Janet , Copeland Nathanial K. , Otieno Solomon , Kifude Carolyne , Ocholla Stephen , Hutter Jack , Smith Hunter , Roberds Ashleigh , Luckhart Shirley , Stewart V. Ann
Published: November 2022

Individuals infected with HIV-1 experience more frequent and more severe episodes of malaria and are likely to harbor asymptomatic parasitemia, thus potentially making them more efficient reservoirs of malaria. Two studies (cross-sectional and longitudinal) were designed in sequence between 2015–2018 and 2018–2020, respectively, to test the hypothesis that HIV-1 infected individuals have higher prevalence of asymptomatic parasitemia and gametocytemia than the HIV-1 negatives. This article describes the overall design of the two studies, encompassing data for the longitudinal study and additional data to the previously published baseline data for the cross-sectional study. In the cross-sectional study, HIV-1 positive participants were significantly older, more likely to be male, and more likely to have parasitemia relative to HIV-1 negatives (P < 0.01). In the longitudinal study, 300 participants were followed for 6 months. Of these, 102 were HIV-1 negative, 106 were newly diagnosed HIV-1 positive, and 92 were HIV-1 positive and on antiretroviral therapy, including antifolates, at enrollment. Overall parasitemia positivity at enrollment was 17.3% (52/300). Of these, 44% (23/52) were HIV-1 negative, 52% (27/52) were newly diagnosed HIV-1 positives, and only 4% (2/52) were HIV-1 positive and on treatment. Parasitemia for those on stable antiretroviral therapy was significantly lower (hazard ratio: 0.51, P < 0.001), compared with the HIV-1-negatives. On follow-up, there was a significant decline in parasitemia prevalence (hazard ratio: 0.74, P < 0.001) among the HIV patients newly initiated on antiretroviral therapy including trimethoprim-sulfamethoxasole. These data highlight the impact of HIV-1 and HIV treatment on asymptomatic parasitemia over time.
Phylogenetic Analysis of Wesselsbron Virus Isolated from Field-Captured Mosquitoes during a Rift Valley Fever Outbreak in Kabale District, Uganda—2016
Authors: Kayiwa John T. , Mayanja Martin N. , Nakayiki Teddy Muwawu , Senfuka Fred , Mugga Julius , Koehler Jeffrey W. , Mossel Eric C. , Lutwama Julius J.
Published: November 2022

After confirmation of two human cases of Rift Valley fever (RVF) in March 2016 in the Kabale district of Uganda, an entomological investigation was conducted with a focus on mosquito species composition and abundance of known and potential mosquito vector species, and virus testing to identify species most likely involved in Rift Valley fever virus transmission. This information could be used to forecast risk and facilitate improvement of prevention and response tools for use in preventing or controlling future outbreaks. From these collections, two virus isolates were obtained, one each from a pool of Aedes tricholabis and Ae. gibbinsi. Next-generation sequencing identified both isolates as Wesselsbron virus, family Flaviviridae, a neglected arbovirus of economic importance. These are the first reported Wesselsbron virus isolates from Uganda since 1966.
Mity pomagają i… szkodzą organizacji
Authors: Sikorski Czesław
Published: November 2022

Myths are Both Helpful and... Disruptive to an Organization

Throughout this article, the role of myths as part of organizational culture is emphasized. Myths, similarly to cultures, diverge according to the type of organization. In the paper, opposing types of organizations are distinguished on the basis of their attitude to power and to environmental issues.

The objective of this article is to analyze the core myths exploited in organizations for motivational purposes in order to identify the conditions for their positive or negative impact on both organizational efficiency and employee wellbeing.
Zarządzanie umysłem mitycznym
Authors: Czeremski Maciej
Published: November 2022

Managing the Mythical Mind

The aim of the article is to consider whether the mental mechanisms essential for the functioning of a myth, used effectively for many years in culture-creating activities (especially in the area of art and entertainment), can also be applied to the processes of cultural management. The hypothesis of such a possibility is based on the belief that the same properties of human cognitive architecture that account for the popularity of the form of myth are (or can be) used to shape specific attitudes and actions. In particular, this applies to such properties of myth as narrative communication, fiction, worldview referencing, concepts of agency, as well as counterintuitive imagery and primary metaphors. The article is a theoretical study based on a review of literature in the field of the theory of myth and cognitive science, discussing the perspective of the application of findings made at the intersection of these two domains in management theory and practice as well as potential empirical research in this area.