bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes and Accreditation in Distance Education
Authors: Kaur Prabhjeet , Kaur Amandeep , Gangwar Veer P. , Jasrai Lokesh
Published: April 2024

The main purpose of the study is to investigate the attitude of graduates, postgraduates, and doctoral students studying in higher educational institutions and try to understand the effective pedagogical framework followed in these institutions to support the accreditation of e-learning in distance education programs. The study is trying to evaluate accreditation results through students' attitudes towards e-learning accreditation and its importance among global higher education institutions. The new approach is that accreditation among e-learning programs and its importance in students has been studied as how its accreditation is helpful at the global level. New findings add the various theories and common construct and provide theoretical and conceptual framework for the future study in aspect to distance learning in higher education.
Navigating the Educational Frontier and Unveiling the Role of Virtual Reality in Faculty Development
Authors: Asim Zeeshan , Sorooshain Shahryar , Sami Waqas , Mahmood Mudassar , Yusof Yusri , Sarwat Surriyya , Vasudevan Asokan
Published: April 2024

The emphasis on leveraging virtualization to enhance learning has garnered attention in high education accreditation. However, a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the effective utilization of virtual reality (VR) for advancing faculty development in both professional growth and accreditation requirements in order to maintain teaching quality poses a challenge for policymakers to enact. Implementing additional measures is crucial to guarantee the accessibility of equipment and well-trained staff. This study seeks to investigate the perspective to the extent to which VR applications prove beneficial in faculty development, particularly within the contexts of professional skills and during accreditation process at university level. This study suggests that researchers stay updated to recognize gaps in the integration of VR into education, with a particular focus on improving the teaching competencies at university level. It is essential to develop effective adaptability strategies to optimize the advantages technological advancement toward faculty professional growth.
Rationalizing the Online Learning in Higher Education in MENA Region
Authors: Magd Hesham , Khan Shad Ahmad
Published: April 2024

Online education has become a tool to reach education to every section of society. The policies related to the education sector have been decisive for the growth and development of nations around the world. As the higher education sector has seen an enormous change in recent times (mainly due to COVID-19), the digitalization of higher education has seen significant growth. Also, concepts like work from home (WFH), learn from home (LFH), artificial intelligence (AI), digital classrooms (DC), online learning (OL) have become common terms among the users today. This chapter will investigate all these aspects from a retrospective approach, and the issues and challenges encountered will be discussed. Also, the evidence-based solutions will be discussed to make the presentation solution oriented for higher education sector along with the role potential players can play in this regard.
Transition From Outcome-Based Learning to Global Accreditation of Top Universities of India
Authors: Khatri Bhanupriya , Nandini Girija , Khan Shad Ahmad
Published: April 2024

In recent years, higher education in India has undergone significant changes, transitioning from traditional outcome-based learning to prioritizing international accreditation for top universities. This shift is part of a larger effort to elevate teaching standards, foster innovation, and promote global collaboration. While rote learning was previously prevalent, it produced graduates with strong theoretical foundations but often lacked practical skills and global perspectives essential in today's interconnected world. Despite the positive shift to international accreditation, challenges remain, necessitating more robust faculty development programs to meet rigorous standards. Graduates from accredited universities are better equipped to address global challenges and remain committed to lifelong learning. Global accreditation will continue to shape the future of education as the world progresses and interconnects.
Impact of Stakeholder Involvement in Continuous Quality Improvement in Indian Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Jha Shweta , Kaur Ranjit , Saklani Alok
Published: April 2024

This chapter aims at examining the role of stakeholders in continuous quality improvement in Indian higher education institutions. The authors have tried to conceptualize stakeholder involvement in line with the various stakeholder theory and European foundation for quality management model. Continuous quality improvement is a repetitive and cyclical process that can be implemented by using an implementation framework such as plan, do, check, and act (PDCA) cycle. The PDCA cycle based on the stakeholder involvement with respect to the three dimensions of EFQM model can serve as a guiding framework for continuous quality improvement in higher educational institutes. The conceptual framework given in the chapter may be applied by the higher education institutions with greater involvement of stakeholders.
Ethnobotanical, Pharmacological, and Therapeutic Importance of Sesame Seeds Along With Their Role in the Biogenic Synthesis of Important Chemicals
Authors: Batool Rabia , Batool Tahira , Nisa Fakhr Un , Khalid Farwa , Asghar Zahra
Published: April 2024

Sesame (Sesamum indicum) is a flowering plant belonging to the sesamum genus, sometimes referred to as benne. Since prehistoric times, people have grown sesame seeds in tropical climates all throughout the planet. One of the earliest crops to be processed for oil refining was sesame seed. There are a lot of phytochemicals in sesame seeds, both black and white, including eight primary metabolites and sixteen secondary metabolites. Sesame seeds are widely utilised in traditional medicine and cooking due to their nourishing, healing, and protecting qualities. The sesame plant is also used to create a variety of nanoparticles, including iron and silver nanoparticles. For optimal use, an examination of the ethnobotanical and medicinal applications of this very nutritious oilseed—which is also commercially significant—is appropriate. This study's main goal is to learn more about the regular benefits of sesame seeds for pharmacological, medicinal, and ethnobotanical applications.
Embracing Mindfulness for Digital Transformation and Sustainable Success
Authors: Y. Poondy Rajan , Ramasundaram Aiswarya , A. Jenifer Arokia Selvi
Published: April 2024

This chapter investigates the crucial role that mindfulness plays as catalyst for fostering digital change within an organization. In a time of swift technological progress and changing corporate environments, effective digital adoption is now essential. This chapter explores how organizations motivate and mentor the staff members as they navigate the complex process of digital transformation. Through the integration of digitalization tactics and real-world case studies, the research demonstrates the many effects of mindfulness on cultivating the culture that values creativity, flexibility, and forward thinking. The research pinpoints the essential leadership attributes, communication tactics, and change management, methodologies that mindfulness utilizes to galvanize their groups, harmonize cooperate objectives and plot through the intricacies of technological transformation. This chapter adds to the readers' understanding of how mindfulness might act as transformative agent to help organizations successfully navigate the digital transformation process by illuminating these dynamics.
Wellness at the Heart of Healthcare
Authors: Kaur Jaspreet
Published: April 2024

This chapter explores the swift incorporation of digital technology in healthcare and delves into the crucial need to cultivate digital consciousness inside hospitals. The significance of prioritising wellbeing within healthcare practices is underscored, with a focus on promoting mindfulness, human-centred care, and thorough training programmes for healthcare personnel. The study examines various strategies to enhancing wellness, encompassing patient-centric digital interventions, efficient communication methods, and comprehensive wellness programmes. Hospitals may effectively leverage the revolutionary capabilities of technology and uphold patient well-being as a paramount concern in the digital era of healthcare by placing emphasis on digital consciousness and wellness.
A Comparative Methodology of Supervised Machine Learning Algorithms for Predicting Customer Churn Using Neuromarketing Techniques
Authors: Muduva Martin , Hondoma Thanks , Chiwariro Ronald , Kiwa Fungai Jacqueline
Published: April 2024

This chapter presents an approach to using supervised machine learning and neuromarketing techniques to predict customer churn. It explores how combining neuromarketing strategies with machine learning algorithms improves churn forecast accuracy. The chapter highlights the significance of choosing the most appropriate techniques for churn prediction by contrasting several algorithms combined with various neuromarketing methodologies, such as biometric analysis and neuroimaging. It discusses the connection between customer attrition and neuromarketing, highlighting studies on customer relationship characteristics, neuroscience methods, and the role of emotions in churn prediction. Marketers can leverage machine-learning algorithms and evaluation metrics while adhering to privacy regulations, conducting algorithm testing, ensuring interpretability and practicing responsible use to create predictive models, minimize biases, and maintain trust in customer relationships.
AI as a Teacher
Authors: Damasevicius Robertas , Sidekerskiene Tatjana
Published: April 2024

This chapter discusses the impact and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education, with a focus on AI chatbots like ChatGPT. The study synthesizes findings from scholarly articles, offering a holistic view of how AI is transforming educational methodologies, classroom dynamics, and the roles of educators. Key areas of investigation include the transformation of classroom dynamics through AI-enabled smart classrooms, innovative AI-driven teaching methods, and the specific applications and implications of ChatGPT and generative AI in education. The study also focuses on the dynamics of teacher-AI collaboration, discussing the potential benefits and ethical considerations that arise from the integration of AI technologies in teaching and learning processes. Furthermore, it examines AI's role in educational assessment and learning analytics, highlighting both the capabilities and limitations of AI tools in these domains. The example of using ChatGPT for AI-driven student assessment and personalized learning recommendation generation is presented.
AI-Enhanced Engineering Education
Authors: Balfaqih Mohammed , Balfagih Zain
Published: April 2024

The chapter explores AI integration in engineering education, emphasizing customization, adaptive learning, and real-time data analysis. It discusses AI's role in enhancing student efficacy through personalized learning and early identification of learning difficulties. Innovative elements like wearables for self-monitoring are examined. Pedagogical frameworks and case studies of successful AI implementations are presented. Ethical and societal considerations including privacy and inclusiveness are addressed. It provides a comprehensive understanding of AI in engineering education, concluding with key insights and implications for proactive engagement with AI technologies to enhance student learning.
Navigating AI Integration
Authors: Osman Shahinaz Abdelrahman , Ahmed Zeinab E.
Published: April 2024

This chapter explores the practical applications and effective methods of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into various educational settings. It examines how educational institutions, ranging from K-12 to higher education, have successfully utilized AI to enhance teaching methods, strategies, and learning outcomes through the presentation of compelling case studies. In addition to theoretical frameworks, the chapter offers practical insights into the challenges faced, strategies employed, and lessons learned during the implementation of AI-enhanced teaching approaches. The adoption of AI in education can facilitate personalized learning journeys by tailoring instruction, materials, pacing, and resources to individual learners' needs and preferences. It also enables adaptive assessments and feedback systems that provide real-time feedback, identify areas for improvement, and contribute to more nuanced grading systems. The chapter highlights examples of AI-powered platforms, such as adaptive learning platforms, intelligent tutoring systems, smart content recommendation systems, and gamified learning paths, illustrating their effectiveness in meeting the unique requirements of students and promoting engagement and mastery. Furthermore, it discusses the importance of immediate and targeted feedback and individualized content structuring in adaptive learning environments. The chapter also explores AI-assessment tools, real-time feedback systems, learning analytics dashboards, and peer learning facilitation platforms as valuable resources for educators. By leveraging AI technologies, educational institutions can transform teaching and learning practices, promote personalized and adaptive learning, and ensure the alignment of AI-based systems with human values.
Enhancing Employee Financial Wellness
Authors: Miglani Mehul , Bhatnagar Mukul , Singh Malkeet
Published: April 2024

Employee financial well-being is a very significant part of employee personal growth and development. It is beneficial for the organization as well as improves the standard of living of employees as will be their job satisfaction. The present research focuses on providing a framework for enhancing employee financial Wellness by developing an hour-integrated robo-advisory tool. This tool is in the form of a conceptual model which is analyzed based on responses of respondents on a certain set of dependent, independent, and moderating variables. After running calculations on the frame conceptual model, it was found that there was a statistically significant relationship between employee financial literacy and employee financial Wellness; organizational support for financial Wellness initiatives and employee financial literacy; robo advisory tool and employee financial literacy; robust advisory tool and employee financial Wellness. Rest all other relationships were found to be statistically insignificant because their significance level was greater than 0.05.
Harnessing Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Durai Subhashini , Manoharan Geetha , Ashtikar Sunitha Purushottam
Published: April 2024

Science increasingly acknowledges technology's environmental impact. Artificial intelligence has the greatest transformational potential. This study uses AI to provide sustainable, eco-friendly solutions. The report covers climate change, pollution, and resource depletion worldwide. These difficulties inspire change, and the chapter suggests using AI to invent solutions. Numerous case studies demonstrate how AI may help environmental sustainability. Waste management, energy efficiency, biodiversity management, and natural catastrophe prediction are examples. Each case study explores AI principles, problems, and sustainability. In the next section, the chapter discusses AI's ethical and practical implications. These concerns include data privacy, AI inclusion, and automation-related job loss. It provides well-defined legal frameworks and AI integration with other tech and societal solutions. The chapter finishes with AI's future in sustainable development. Governments, AI developers, and the public must collaborate to achieve AI's potential.
Exploring Spain's Economic History
Authors: Benito-Lacuey Andrea , Aramendia-Muneta Maria Elena , Gómez-Cámara Irene
Published: April 2024

This study examines Spain's economic history within the context of the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on sustainable tourism and economic transformation. It aims to comprehensively analyse the quantifiable impacts of both crises, delineate their characteristics, and evaluate governmental interventions in the tourism sector. The methodology comprises three sections: an in-depth analysis of tourism's influence on Spain's primary economic indicators, followed by an examination of three critical periods (the 2008 crisis, the “Inter-crisis Period” from 2014 to 2019, and the economic and public health crises of COVID-19). Findings highlight the crucial relationship between the tourism sector, gross domestic product (GDP), and employment, emphasising the importance of sustainable tourism in economic resilience. In conclusion, this study stresses the necessity of revitalising tourism to drive Spain's economic recovery, underscoring its pivotal role in the nation's economic history.
Fostering Sustainability and Resilience
Authors: Perme Sonu , Gupta Pawan
Published: April 2024

This chapter aimed to uncover the complex relationships between various factors influencing community-based tourism (CBT) and their impact on the livelihoods of indigenous communities in Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh. It explored cultural, economic, and environmental dimensions, emphasizing their intertwined effects on residents' daily lives. Methodologically, the study conducted a sample survey in Ziro Valley, utilizing factor and multiple regression analyses to analyze the data. Results indicated significant effects of CBT factors on local livelihoods, advocating for a holistic approach to sustainable tourism. By addressing economic, environmental, and socio-cultural aspects simultaneously, the study promotes balanced and inclusive development for community well-being. Its findings contribute to both academic discourse and practical policymaking, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and culturally enriching tourism practices in the region.
A Critical Analysis of Epistemological and Ontological Assumptions in Constructivism
Authors: Ignacio Avelino G. , Paras Percival S.
Published: April 2024

This chapter presents critical insights into the epistemological and ontological assumptions in constructivism in education contexts. This diverges from the epistemological and ontological notions of the philosophical concept of realism. Constructivism discards the traditional epistemology that operates on mind-independent reality. In examining this area, two distinct constructivisms are apparent to straddle an epistemological divide. For social constructivists, constructivism emphasizes students' role in being collaboratively involved in the situation or methodology to generate a conceptual change with genuine peripheral to full social participation using static scaffolds. Hence, being socially mitigated with minimal probing of epistemic authorities. For radical constructivists, constructivism stresses students' role to be individually engaged in epistemic discussions by means of the provision of dynamic scaffolds. So, be able to actively and personally build reality as well as substantiate knowledge assertions with the maximal probing of epistemic authorities.
Barriers Facing Engineering Graduates Towards Employability
Authors: Chasokela Doris , Moyo Funa
Published: April 2024

Engineering education is part of STEM and expectations are graduates who are molded and possess 21st-century skills. Graduates are supposed to be prepared for the future workforce and be able to be employed in the outside world. The 21st-century skills assist the graduates to be able to tackle complex engineering problems. Engineering graduates from Zimbabwean universities lack 21st-century skills. Various countries are overproducing engineering graduates with no or minimal skills. As a result, engineering graduates are either under-employed or unemployed and not suitable for the labour markets. The interface between technology and the labor market is drastically changing globally and this then demands new skills for graduate engineers. Nowadays employers are actually searching for graduates who possess 21st-century skills like creativity, learning skills, reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making. The chapter seeks to: give an overview of the challenges faced by graduate engineering students toward employment opportunities; for enhancing engineering graduate employability.
Chatbots in Education
Authors: Al-Tamimi Abdel-Karim , Moore Richard , Javed Yasir , Babu Stany , Freeman Elizabeth
Published: April 2024

This chapter explores the transformative potential of integrating conversational AI agents, particularly chatbots, into the educational landscape. Drawing on the insights from the EDUChat project, the findings reveal a notable surge in student expectations following the return to face-to-face teaching. The data reflects an increased desire for personalised and instantaneous support, indicating a paradigmatic evolution in educational requirements. Due to the global shift to online education in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this chapter recognises identified disparities in digital access and infrastructure, emphasising the vital role of communication, student engagement, and innovative teaching methodologies. It highlights the need for interventions like improved infrastructure and expanded online resources to reshape post-pandemic educational systems, underscoring the importance of equitable resource distribution and proactive strategies.
Designing in Support
Authors: Awwad Rund , Baker Anthony Thomas
Published: April 2024

This chapter promotes the idea that retired academic staff members represent an excellent source of external mentors for postgraduate research students. PhD candidates, particularly those from international backgrounds, face an isolating experience at the outset of their studies. Having a mentor outside the formal supervisory arrangements could positively alter their trajectory. Retired academics have the flexibility to contribute to their institutions, assisting yet another PhD candidate achieve success. The mentor is outside the supervisory team and must respect boundaries around the supervisory team / research student relationship. Part of the chapter is a case study discussing the unexpected outcomes of the involvement of a retired academic staff member and an international postgraduate research student, of non-English speaking background, in a program to develop language skills at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Matching of the two participants meant that they had many interests in common and an effective working relationship developed quickly into a mentor/mentee dyad.
Globalization of Higher Education
Authors: Lourenço Abílio , Paiva Maria Olímpia
Published: April 2024

Over the past decade, universities have played a dual role, acting as both agents and products of the globalization process. The implications of the internationalization of higher education are intrinsically linked not only to the phenomenon of globalization but also to how universities confront the challenges that arise. This reflection aims to foster discussion on the potentialities of globalization and internationalization in higher education, which has emerged as a pathway for improving the quality of education and research for the benefit of society. Some proposals for implementing internationalization are highlighted, and paths are indicated to deepen the understanding of concepts, revealing other possibilities beyond the conventional view of internationalization as a destination for the commodification of higher education. Some crucial influencing factors in interpreting this growing paradigm of internationalization and globalization of higher education are explored.
Separating the Wheat from the Chaff among HLA-DQ Eplets
Authors: Devriese Magali , Lemonnier François A , Lion Julien , Sayegh Caroline , Fleury Emma , Shofstall Catherine , Giraldo Lisa , Fiachetti Quentin , Usureau Cédric , Miyadera Hiroko , Toutirais Olivier , Mooney Nuala , Lowe Dave , Taupin Jean-Luc
Published: April 2024

In transplantation, anti-HLA Abs, especially targeting the DQ locus, are well-known to lead to rejection. These Abs identified by Luminex single Ag assays recognize polymorphic amino acids on HLA, named eplets. The HLA Eplet Registry included 83 DQ eplets, mainly deduced from amino acid sequence alignments, among which 66 have not been experimentally verified. Because eplet mismatch load may improve organ allocation and transplant outcomes, it is imperative to confirm the genuine reactivity of eplets to validate this approach. Our study aimed to confirm 29 nonverified eplets, using adsorption of eplet-positive patients’ sera on human spleen mononuclear cells and on transfected murine cell clones expressing a unique DQα- and DQβ-chain combination. In addition, we compared the positive beads patterns obtained in the two commercially available Luminex single Ag assays. Among the 29 nonverified DQ eplets studied, 24 were confirmed by this strategy, including the 7 DQα eplets 40E, 40ERV, 75I, 76 V, 129H, 129QS, and 130A and the 17 DQβ eplets 3P, 23L, 45G, 56L, 57 V, 66DR, 66ER, 67VG, 70GT, 74EL, 86A, 87F, 125G, 130R, 135D, 167R, and 185I. However, adsorption results did not allow us to conclude for the five eplets 66IT, 75S, 160D, 175E, and 185T.
The Anti-Atherosclerotic Effects of Buyang Huanwu Decoction through M1 and M2 Macrophage Polarization in an ApoE Knockout Mouse Model
Authors: Ji Mengjiao , Mao Lei , Wei Yanan , Zhu Boran , Zhai Yi , Zhou Xin , Tao Weiwei , Wang Wei , Wu Haoxin
Published: April 2024

Arteriosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease and Buyang Huanwu decoction (BHD) has been identified as an anti-atherosclerosis effect, and the study is aimed to investigate the underlying mechanism. The E4 allele of Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is associated with both metabolic dysfunction and an enhanced pro-inflammatory response, ApoE-knockout (ApoE-/-) mice were fed with a high-fat diet to establish an arteriosclerosis model and treated with BHD or atorvastatin (as a positive control). The atherosclerotic plaque in each mouse was evaluated using Oil red O Staining. Elisa kits were used to evaluate blood lipid, interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), IL-4, IL-10, and tumor growth factor beta (TGF-β) contents, while Western blot was applicated to measure inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), arginase I (Arg-1) expression. Meanwhile, pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) and its target genes glucose transporter type 1 (GLUT1), lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA), and 3-phosphoinositide-dependent kinase 1 (PDK1), as well as IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-β were evaluated by the quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. BHD treatment significantly reduced body weight and arteriosclerosis plaque area and blood lipid levels including total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Meanwhile, BHD demonstrated a significant suppression of M1 polarization, by decreased secretion of iNOS and pro-inflammatory factors (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α) in ApoE-/- mice. The present study also revealed that BHD promotes the activation of M2 polarization, characterized by the expression of Arg-1 and anti-inflammatory factors (IL-4 and IL-10). In addition, PKM2/HIF-1α signaling was improved by M1/M2 macrophages polarization induced by BHD. The downstream target genes (GLUT1, LDHA, and PDK1) expression was significantly increased in high fat feeding ApoE-/- mice, and those of which were recused by BHD and Atorvastatin. These results suggested that M1/M2 macrophages polarization produce the inflammatory response against AS progress after BHD exposure.
Posterior segment manifestations of Takayasu arteritis: A narrative review
Authors: Sharma Unnati , Rishi Ekta , Rishi Pukhraj , Gupta Vishali , Raman Rajiv
Published: April 2024

Ocular symptoms can be the presenting manifestation of Takayasu arteritis (TA) or could be indicative of disease reactivation. A review of published literature related to posterior segment manifestations of TA by using the keywords “Takayasu arteritis,” “ophthalmic manifestations,” “retina,” “retinopathy,” “ocular,” “optic nerve,” and “optic neuropathy” was performed. In total, 62 case reports and 12 case series were included. The majority of the articles were from Asia (n = 47, 64%). Females outnumbered males in the ratio of 7:1. The mean age of patients was 33 years (range: 8–78 years, SD: 13.5 years). In 58% (n = 41 out of 71) cases, ocular symptoms were the presenting manifestation of the underlying disease. Hypotensive retinopathy was found in 70% of eyes, and hypertensive retinopathy was found in 27%. The mean presenting visual acuity (VA) was +1.03 logMAR (range: −0.12 to 3, SD: 1.07), and at the final follow-up was +1.02 logMAR (range: −0.12 to 3, SD 1.17). VA improved in 34% (n = 29/86), remained stable in 45% (39/86), and worsened in 21% (18/86). The mean follow-up was 9 months (range: 0.5–204, SD: 16 months).
Global warming impact of fluorinated gases in ophthalmic surgeries at a tertiary eye center in India
Authors: Nadig Ramya R , Deepak B , Neelamegam Vidya , Moussa George , Raman Rajiv
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

Global warming is one of the greatest health threats of the 21st century. The ophthalmic sector contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases, thus altering the natural environment. There is currently no data on global emissions of fluorinated gases in ophthalmic surgery. This retrospective study from 2017 to 2021 aims to report the carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalence of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), hexafluoroethane (C2F6), and octafluoropropane (C3F8) at a tertiary eye center.

Methods:

Data collected from 1842 surgical procedures that used injections of fluorinated gases were analyzed. Environmental impact (global warming potential over 100 years) was calculated by converting milliliters to grams by using modified ideal gas law at standard temperature and pressure for the canisters and then to their CO2 equivalence.

Results:

Though 70% of surgeries used C3F8, the least greenhouse effect causing fluorinated gas, the total carbon emission was 1.4 metric tons. The most common indication was macular hole surgery (36.86%).

Conclusion:

This study paves a step toward analyzing the problem statement, thus awakening us to contemplate options to make ophthalmic surgeries greener.
Off-label use of intravitreal bevacizumab: A global conundrum
Authors: Singh Samya , Saxena Sandeep , Akduman Levent , Meyer Carsten H
Published: April 2024

Bevacizumab is a monoclonal, humanized, full-length antibody targeting vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF-A), known for its anti-angiogenic properties. The off-label use of bevacizumab has stirred legal, financial, industrial, and ethical complexities. With its potential to treat diverse ocular conditions, this commentary delves into the multifaceted dimensions of bevacizumab’s off-label utilization, encompassing clinical trials, regulatory frameworks, safety considerations, comparative effectiveness, and economic implications.
Yoked prisms and cerebral visual impairment: Enhancing the experience of ambient vision
Authors: Bhaskaran Sahithya , Pandurangan Sneha , Perumalsamy Vijayalakshmi , Floor Jeyaseeli
Published: April 2024

Background:

Perceptual visual impairment leads to impaired functional vision in children with cerebral visual impairment. Yoked prisms have been used in behavioral vision therapy for children with autism (dysfunctional dorsal visual processing pathway) and in neurorehabilitation to treat visual neglect, hemianopia, and abnormal egocentric localization. In particular, they are employed for treating perceptual visual problems.

Purpose:

To share our experience in implementing yoked prisms and their impact on the rehabilitation of children with cerebral visual impairment-related perceptual vision disorders.

Synopsis:

The first child with periventricular leukomalacia exhibits no eagerness to explore her new environment along with poor grasp. With 4-PD base-down prisms, she explores her surroundings and appreciates her lateral supports. Her grasp improved as well. The second child with cerebral visual impairment exhibits difficulty in climbing downstairs with poor obstacle negotiation. This could be due to impaired inferior field awareness or optic ataxia. With 4-PD base-down prisms, the field shift toward the apex helps him to climb downstairs without difficulty with an improved obstacle negotiation. The third child prefers a closer look at the object of interest along with poor hand–eye coordination. We employed 4-PD base-down prisms in her rehabilitation session. She showed good improvement in her hand–eye coordination.

Highlights:

Poor hand–eye coordination, difficulty climbing downstairs, optic ataxia, impaired field awareness, and triggering spontaneous exploration in children with perceptual visual problems can be effectively tackled by the simple incorporation of yoked prisms.

Video link:

https://youtu.be/BW3cwiGDTLY
Comparison of Clinical Profile and Current Status of the Treatment Nonadherent Persons with Mental Illness: A Study from a Rural Community Mental Health Center in India
Authors: Sriramalu Sudhir Babu , Elangovan Aravind Raj , Isaac Mohan K. , Kalyanasundaram Janaki Raman
Published: April 2024

Background:

Treatment nonadherence comprises a combination of individual, family, social, treatment center, and illness-related factors. In this context, the present study aims to compare the clinical profile and the current status of persons with mental illness who have discontinued their treatment at a rural community mental health center (RCMHC) in India.

Materials and Methods:

The persons who discontinued treatment with a diagnosis category of severe mental disorders (SMDs), common mental disorders (CMDs), and substance use disorders (SUDs) who sought treatment at RCMHC are the study population. The present study has followed a comparative research design that compares the clinical profiles of SMDs, CMDs, and SUDs. A survey method of sampling was adopted. A semi-structured interview schedule, clinical global impression (CGI), and errors in drug adherence schedule were used as measures in the study. A home visit approach, telephone contacts, and collateral information were followed to collect the data.

Results:

Out of the 80 respondents, only 16 (20.0%) reported improvement, and the remaining 16 (20.0%) are receiving treatment from various facilities. The rest of the 48 (60.0%) subjects were not on treatment despite being ill. The number of respondents who did not take their medication even for a day was 10 (12.5%), and another 34 (42.5%) subjects completely stopped their medication within a month. CGI-improvement highlights that nearly 47 (58.7%) respondents had shown much and very much improvement while they were on treatment. The CGI-severity of illness rating scale revealed that 54 (67.5%), i.e., nearly 2/3 of the respondents, were currently in the mild-to-extreme mentally ill category.

Conclusion:

Comprehensive psychosocial and community-based approaches will enhance treatment adherence in mental illness.
Mental Health and Sociodemographic Correlates of Child Sexual Abuse
Authors: Vispute Yashashri , Sinha Deoraj , Pawar Ami , Mane Astik , Jaiswal Suyog Vijay
Published: April 2024

Background:

Child sexual abuse (CSA) has long-term deleterious effects on mental health. The prevalence of CSA is more in females than males. A lifetime diagnosis of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sleep disorders, and suicide attempts has been associated with a history of sexual abuse. Few studies have focused on the role of temperament and the relationship between psychiatric morbidity and sociodemographic variables.

Aim:

This study aimed to assess the relationship between psychiatric morbidity and sociodemographic variables in cases of CSA.

Methodology:

After ethical approval, 168 consecutive survivors of an alleged history of child sexual assault brought by the police were enrolled after informed consent from legal guardians and assent from survivors. A specially designed semi-structured pro forma was used to collect data. Psychiatric morbidity was diagnosed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5. Scales assessing temperament, perceived social support and global functioning, were used.

Results:

Seventy-seven percent of survivors in this study had psychiatric morbidity. Adjustment problems were more in children with slow-to-warm temperament. A positive family history of mental illness was significant in major depressive disorder (MDD) but not in PTSD. Those with a history of being assaulted multiple times (36 out of 42) had a higher chance of developing MDD.

Conclusion:

This study highlights that the adjustment problems were more in children with slow-to-warm temperament, highlighting the need for targeted and timely intervention in this subgroup of CSA survivors. This study shows an association between childhood environmental adverse event and development of psychiatric morbidity.
“I Don’t Mind Them Drinking, as Long as…”: A Cross-sectional Study to Identify Codependence among Primary Caregivers of Patients with Alcohol Dependence in Urban India
Authors: Subramanyam M. , Appaya M. Prakash , Samudyatha U. C. , Preeti S. , Gowda Mahesh
Published: April 2024

Background:

Codependence is a form of relationship addiction, described as a “disease of lost selfhood.” Codependence among primary caregivers adversely impacts treatment outcomes in Alcohol Dependence Syndrome (ADS) patients. Personality traits of the caregiver may also influence codependency and its severity. However, in routine clinical practice, codependence among primary caregivers of alcoholic patients is not assessed and addressed. This study aimed to identify codependence among caregivers of ADS patients and determine its association with personality traits in various subgroups.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in a private mental health establishment in urban Karnataka, India, among 125 adult primary caregivers of ADS patients who were spending at least 4 h daily with the patient for more than a year. Spann-Fischer codependence scale and Big Five personality inventory were used to assess codependence and personality domains, respectively. Codependence scores were correlated with Big Five personality scores and examined in various subgroups.

Results:

Among 125 study participants, 103 (82.4%) were female and 81 (64.8%) were spouse of ADS patients. Moderate and high codependency was found in 86 (68.8%) and 38 (30.4%) participants, respectively. Codependence was found to be significantly higher among females (64.5 ± 7.7) than males (57.6 ± 10.9), (t = −2.8, df = 25.6, P = 0.000), independent of the type of relationship with the patient. There was a significant positive correlation with neuroticism personality trait. Sociocultural and economic conditions of the caregiver also contributed to codependence.

Conclusions:

The study identified the presence of moderate-to-severe codependence, especially among female caregivers of ADS patients. This emphasizes the need for a protocol to assess codependency and personality traits among caregivers of ADS patients to improve treatment outcomes in urban Indian settings.
The Current Challenges in Psychiatric Community Rehabilitation: A Case Study
Authors: Periyasamy Chinnadurai , Jangam Kavita V.
Published: April 2024

Psychiatric rehabilitation is to assist disabled people in developing the emotional, social, and cognitive skills required to live, learn, and work in the community with the least amount of professional assistance. The goal of the current case study revealed that support from family, friends, community, treating mental health professionals, and drug compliance contributes to the recovery. Many persons with mental illness will experience disability which becomes a barrier to regular follow-up. The needs of severely disabled people are often neglected or not met adequately by mental health professionals, family, and the community. They do not understand what is happening in the community and the home environment. Therefore, the current case study made an effort to know the actual situation of mentally disabled people in their home environment and evaluated psychiatric rehabilitation needs. A case study was presented in detail with findings of the home visit and the strengths and weaknesses of the home visit from a social work perspective. The case study concludes that community attitude; the economic burden was one of the leading causes of barriers to psychiatric rehabilitation in India.
Comparative Study of Stigma and Its Correlates in Caregivers and Patients of Schizophrenia and Bipolar Affective Disorder
Authors: Jamal Sahil , Gupta Bandna , Nischal Anil , Tripathi Adarsh
Published: April 2024

Objective:

Stigma is very common among patients and caregivers of patients with severe mental disorders; however, there is a lack of comparative study data between schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder in the Indian setting.

Methods:

For this, caregivers of patients with schizophrenia (n = 50) or bipolar affective disorder (n = 50) were assessed on the Affiliate Stigma Scale (ASS). Patients with schizophrenia (n = 50) or bipolar affective disorder (n = 50) were assessed on the Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness Scale (ISMIS).

Results:

Patients and caregivers of patients with schizophrenia have significantly higher mean scores on ISMIS and ASS, respectively, as compared to patients and caregivers of patients with bipolar affective disorder.

Conclusion:

This study suggests that patients with schizophrenia and their caregivers experience higher stigma than the caregivers of patients with bipolar affective disorder. Higher stigma is associated with higher psychological morbidity in the patients and caregivers. Therefore, clinicians managing patients with severe mental disorders must focus on stigma and psychological distress among the patients and caregivers and plan intervention strategies to reduce stigma.
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) positivity pattern by line immunoassay in a hospital from eastern India: Update from a laboratory perspective
Authors: Banerjee Ayan , Ranjan Alok , Kumar Mukunda , Kumar Sushil , Bansal Akash , Mahto Mala
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Context:

The existence of more than one antibody in systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARDs) or connective tissue disease (CTD) along with features of more than one autoimmune disease (AD) in an individual is suggestive of overlap syndrome (OS). Line immunoassay (LIA) can target many autoantibodies in a single approach, thus making the identification of OS feasible.

Aims and Objectives:

This study aimed to identify the pattern of distribution of antinuclear antibodies by LIA prevalent in a hospital population in eastern India and identify common forms of SARD in this belt based on laboratory findings.

Material and Methods:

A total of 1660 samples received for ANA profile testing by LIA were analysed.

Statistical Analysis:

Factor analysis was performed with factor loading scores used in the k-means algorithm to identify clustering of various autoantibodies.

Results:

U1-snRNP positivity was the highest at 16.69%, and the least frequent autoantibody noted was anti-Jo-1 at 0.71% positivity. Based on the outcome of factor analysis, three clusters were determined. Cluster 1 showed a predominance of anti-PM/Scl antibodies, cluster 2 showed a predominance of anti-dsDNA, anti-histone, anti-SmD1, anti-nucleosomes, anti-PCNA, anti-Po, anti-SSA/Ro52, anti-SSA-Ro60, anti-SSB/La, anti-Scl-70, anti-Mi-2, anti-Ku and anti-AMA-M2, and cluster 3 showed a predominance of anti-U1-snRNP.

Conclusions:

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) and overlap syndrome (OS) are prevalent more than pure form of an AD in our study population. OS may be missed out by monospecific immunoassays and hence adds to diagnostic challenges. LIA may be more useful in identifying specific autoantibodies by a single approach rather than monospecific immunoassays in populations after a positive screen by indirect immunofluorescence (IIF).
Dermatological Manifestation of SLE Patients, Living in Aseer Region
Authors: Alhammadi Nouf A. , Alqahtani Hanan , Al Hamdan Shahd Abdulhakeem , Al Hamdan Jood Abdulhakeem , Hadhir Alalyani Reem Thalib , Asiri Sara Ali Ahmed , Alqahtani Roaa Saad , Aljari Adhwaa Ahmed M. , Asiri Ghufran Badr Mohammad
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that affects both men and women differently and has a variety of multisystemic symptoms. One of the diseases most often affected target organs is the skin. Different ethnic and racial groupings may display variations in disease incidence, clinical heterogeneity, and severity depending on environmental, cultural, or genetic factors. This study is conducted to determine the prevalence of SLE’s cutaneous symptoms and their relationship to organ involvement.

Materials and Methods:

Data were gathered for this study from the patient chart, the study design was the retrospective chart review after the consent of the patients and obtaining an ethical approval, The study was carried out in Aseer Central Hospital, Abha Saudi Arabia

Results:

Out of a total of 100 patients 92% were females while 8% were males. The mean (SD) of the age of the respondent was 38.3 (8.5). 89.2 of the respondents had skin manifestations

Conclusion:

A thorough understanding of SLE skin lesions will aid in the accurate identification of the condition and in the effective therapy of lupus patients. In order to more accurately diagnose cutaneous lesions in SLE patients, we need more dermatology and rheumatology clinics that combine expertise together.
Point prevalence of metabolic syndrome in HIV positive patients
Authors: Hamid Shazia , Badyal Ashima , Sumberia Vishali
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related morbidity and mortality have declined over time, but this increased longevity may lead to the development of other diseases, which may further manifest as the metabolic syndrome (MS).

Method:

To find out the point prevalence of MS in HIV positive patients, a cross-sectional prospective observational study was conducted on 200 patients who approached ART plus Centre of Government Medical College and Hospital Jammu, including 50 symptomatic patients HIV negative as controls.

Results:

The mean age group in MS was 37.85 ± 6.61. Males consisted of 55% (110) and females consisted of 45% (90). The overall prevalence of MS was 13.5%, with prevalence in males being 16.3% and in females 10%. Patients receiving first line highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) showed a 24% prevalence, while that of second line HAART showed a 14% prevalence. Central obesity (47.3%) was the most common component of MS followed by hyperglycemia (43.3%), hypertriglyceridemia (38.6%), and low high density cholesterol (HDL-C) level (38.6%). Out of 84 males with MS, 94% (79) males were having hypertriglyceridemia, 88% (74) were hypertensive, and 72% (60) were having FBS >=100. Out of 66 females with MS, 100% (66) females had central obesity and 88% (58) had hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL-C levels.

Conclusion:

The metabolic complications as a result of treatment with HAART leave HIV patients at a risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes in spite of improvements in morbidity and mortality. Risk factors like central obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hypertriglyceridemia should be taken into consideration well before to prevent the add-on effect of developing MS.