bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances in Polymer Ceramics Composites for Energy Conversion and Storage Applications
Authors: Srivastava Anshuman , Asthana Nidhi , Khan Ubaid , Alam Tanveer
Published: August 2024

This chapter explores the development, properties, and applications of high dielectric constant polymer-ceramic composites for energy storage applications. Capacitors are essential components in energy storage systems, and advancements in capacitor materials, particularly those with high dielectric constants, have the potential to significantly improve energy storage efficiency and performance. Polymer-ceramic composites offer a promising avenue due to their synergistic combination of high dielectric constants, low loss tangents, mechanical flexibility, and processing versatility. This chapter discusses the synthesis, characterization, properties, and applications of these composites, as well as future directions for research and development in this field.
Thermo-Economic Investigation of the Hybrid Wind Supercharging Solar Chimney Power Generation System
Authors: Mamgain Sarthak , Das Saurav , Sharma Meeta , Shukla Anoop Kumar
Published: August 2024

Solar chimney power plant (SCPP), a new technology that generates electricity from the direct incident solar radiations from the sun. It consists of three fundamental parts: turbine, vertical chimney of decent height and a collector made up of glass panes to absorb the radiations from the sun. In this study, the proposed SCPP has two new additions, wind super charging device, and flue gas recovery system. Proposed work provides economical and technical viability of wind super charging solar chimney power plant (WSCPP) in 27.0238° N,74.2179°E, Western Rajasthan, India. A thermos-economic model has been proposed, and the weather and wind conditions data have been treated on a yearly basis. The electricity production estimation and sensitivity analysis on various input and output parameters have been done. The proposed system will be capable of producing 511937.88 kWh of electricity annually. The levelized electricity cost of the proposed WSCPP is Rs 2.53 kWh, in line with other power producing technologies in India.
Monitoring and Detection of Insect Pests Using Smart Trap Technologies
Authors: Aslam Aqsa , Ijaz Muhammad Umar , Aslam Muhammad Talha , Chattha Muhammad Umer , Khan Imran , Gulzar Muhammad Zeeshan , Mehmood Maham , Ali Faiza
Published: August 2024

Despite all the strategies of integrated pest management (IPM), insecticides are still frequently used in its cultivation. The frequent spread of invasive species and unexpected pest outbreaks are serious problems posed by climate change that influence pest phenology. The latest reviews suggested that the current monitoring strategies of IPM need to be revised. Automated pest-monitoring systems are sophisticated, accurate, and efficient monitoring techniques. For this, several systems have been designed to improve IPM in precision agriculture. This comprises the latest methods and scientific state of the art of the use of sensors for automatic detection and monitoring of insect pests. Further, the advanced strategies for the identification of pests based on infrared detectors, audio sensors, and image-based classification, presenting the different systems available, their applications and recent developments, including machine learning and the Internet of Things are given with future trends of automatic traps and decision support systems.
Smart City Ecosystem Using Blockchain Technology and Its Impact on the Environment
Authors: Padhy Sasmita , Suman Preetam , Kumar Naween , Dash Sachikanta , Suman Amrit
Published: August 2024

A smart city is a complex system that combines various technologies to provide services and address urban challenges. It aims to minimize human involvement in management, operations, and finance. Blockchain technology is a key component of this system, simplifying procedures and reducing costs through asset decentralization. It enhances transparency, security, and eliminates data duplication. However, implementing blockchain technology in smart cities can be challenging due to lack of knowledge about governing organizations' physical structures. The chapter discusses current trends and challenges in implementing blockchain technology in smart cities, highlighting its potential to aid modernizing network technology and infrastructure management systems.
Exploring the Nexus of Sustainable Finance
Authors: Sahoo Deepak Ranjan , Sahoo Vaishali Deepak
Published: August 2024

The rising demand for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) disclosure by stakeholders has spurred a wave of sustainability reporting, including a focus on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This surge in interest has led to the development of carbon accounting, ESG disclosure measures, and regulations to enhance the credibility of ESG information globally. The chapter aims to analyze the risks and opportunities of ESG practices and the impact of different stakeholders on the tools and frameworks used across various sectors to report sustainability performance. The study finds that transparent ESG information allows business leaders to engage more effectively with investors and stakeholders. Additionally, global, national, and organizational leaders have a legal and ethical responsibility to achieve sustainable outcomes for their communities. The research reveals a correlation between higher ESG scores and reduced stock price collapse risk. This work contributes to the broader discourse by highlighting ESG's economic impact, particularly its protective role against stock price downturns. It also adds to the literature on factors determining stock price collapse risk and underscores the practical implications of promoting ESG to mitigate financial risks and guidelines.
Margaret Thatcher and Domestic Politics
Authors: Yigit Sureyya
Published: August 2024

Margaret Thatcher was the first female prime minister of the United Kingdom. She established an intellectual corpus focusing on three primary principles. First, the state must concentrate its forces on sovereign domains. Second, the sovereignty of the United Kingdom is paramount. Third, a triptych of Anti-communism, defence of Atlanticism and resolute Euroscepticism. Pursuing such aims, she passionately pursued privatisation and attacked trade union power and workers' rights. This chapter will evaluate her domestic political leadership.
Do Gender Diversity and Leadership Style Influence Team Performance and Innovation Among the Employees
Authors: Paul Raj V. John , Kaur Guneet , Pachiyappan Sathish , Vellaiyan Saravanan
Published: August 2024

The aim of this chapter is to investigate the influence of gender diversity and leadership style on team performance and innovation of potential teams in the information technology sector. A questionnaire was developed, and a sample of 403 responses were collected from the employees. The analysis of the collected data was done using statistical tests of correlation and logistical regression, in order to understand the relationship and impact of gender diversity and leadership style on team performance and innovation potential of teams. The following findings emerged from the analysis. The findings reveal that there is a positive and significant relationship between gender diversity, leadership style, team performance, and innovation. Also, the result from logistics regression evidence that gender diversity and communication have an impact on team performance, whereas organisational culture and communication have an impact on innovation potential within teams.
Critical Success Factors for Succession Planning Implementation
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: August 2024

The majority of the literature on the effectiveness of organizations in the public and commercial sectors highlights the necessity of having access to talented workers for achieving high organizational performance. However, processes like succession planning, which form the foundation of any workforce, have received little attention. All agencies and organizations should engage in succession planning as a dynamic activity to ensure the smooth operation of crucial programs in the case of planned or unanticipated vacancies. This helps organizations to make a conscious and methodical effort to maintain leadership in crucial positions. Adopting an interpretivist stance, implemented through an exploratory design, the purpose of this chapter is to investigate the critical success factors for the effective implementation of succession planning in public organizations. The chapter also proposes a succession planning framework, if adopted, would lead to effective implementation of succession planning.
Exploring the Application of Generative AI in Human Resource Management
Authors: Kumah Peace , Nketia Ivonne Kuma , Yaokumah Winfred , Asante-Offei Kwame Okwabi
Published: August 2024

This chapter reviews the current state of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and human resource management (HRM). It discusses the current application of Generative AI in the core functional areas of HRM, identifies the main challenges posed by Generative AI, emphasizes the increasing role and influence of Generative AI applications in the workplace, and suggests future research directions. Current applications of Generative AI in HRM include automation, personalization, decision support, and bias reduction in HR processes. However, the urgent challenges related to transparency, bias mitigation, ethical use, and data privacy must be addressed for responsible deployment. This chapter highlights the opportunities for integrating Generative AI in HRM to improve HR processes while ensuring ethical and fair implementation. The future research directions for Generative AI and HRM focus on reducing bias in AI models, developing ethical frameworks, enhancing data privacy, and exploring AI's impact on organizational culture and employee engagement.
Financial Frontiers
Authors: Rajenthran Gopinath
Published: August 2024

Fintech players have always adopted the latest technology that evolve in the market to stay ahead in this competitive industry. In that adoption curve, we are now standing in the place where we are going to witness the adoption of the Generative AI as the next technological phenomenon that will shape the future of Fintech industry. In this chapter, the authors explore the following areas to getter a deeper insight into how Generative AI tends to play in Fintech industry: 1) Generative AI technologies involved in Fintech, 2) application of Generative AI in Fintech, 3) benefits of adopting Generative AI in Fintech, 4) case studies where Generative AI is adopted, 5) challenges and risks in adopting Generative AI, 6) mitigation strategies for the above said challenges and risks, and 7) future trends and developments.
Trends and Patterns in Fintech Research
Authors: Shankar Nisha , Saha Sangita , Saha Saibal Kumar
Published: August 2024

The traditional financial industry landscape has changed dramatically due to the quick development of financial technology, or Fintech, which has raised interest in academic study. In order to examine trends and patterns in Fintech research during the given time frame of 1980–2023, this study uses a bibliometric approach. Through a thorough analysis of an extensive library of academic publications, this study seeks to offer a complete grasp of the major topics, significant writers, and developing fields in the Fintech industry. Utilizing bibliometric methods and techniques, the methodology aims to derive meaningful insights from co-authorship patterns, citation networks, and metadata. By identifying the most cited papers, most contributing countries, and prolific writers, the study uses advanced data analytics to illuminate the intellectual framework of Fintech research. The findings of this research contribute to the identification of pivotal research clusters, highlighting the evolution of Fintech themes over time.
Integrative Innovations
Authors: Jain Vishal , Mitra Archan
Published: August 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers revolutionary solutions for enhancing environmental sustainability. By leveraging technologies like machine learning, remote sensing, and predictive analytics, AI can optimize natural resource management and monitor environmental changes. These technologies enable more efficient tracking of deforestation, species distribution, and pollution levels. However, integrating AI into environmental efforts faces challenges including data privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, and the need for specialized technical expertise. Collaborative efforts among policymakers, researchers, and practitioners are crucial for overcoming these obstacles and harnessing AI's potential for sustainable development.
Empowering Hospitality Brands AI Strategies for Enhanced Customer Experiences in Emerging Markets
Authors: Sharma Milan , Singh Amrik , Rana Shameema
Published: August 2024

This study investigates how artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionize branding strategies in developing countries to enhance guest experiences in the hospitality industry. AI-driven branding strategies may improve customer experiences and promote brand success in different and evolving hospitality markets by analysing the most recent trends, case studies, and expert views. The results show that hospitality brands may improve service quality, maximize operational efficiency, and create highly tailored client encounters with the use of AI technologies. Various hospitality industries have various rates of AI adoption and issues; premium hotels seem to be investing more in AI-driven guest experiences. This chapter offers significant insights for hospitality enterprises aiming to utilize AI technologies to develop effective branding strategies that cater to the distinct requirements and inclinations of consumers in emerging markets. Hospitality brands can transform customer experiences, boost brand loyalty in dynamic marketplaces by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI).
AI and Smart Tourism Technology's Contribution to the Growth of Tourism and Hospitality
Authors: Kumar Sandeep
Published: August 2024

The tourism sector is a dynamic one that greatly depends on technological innovations to improve client experiences, optimize operations, and foster sustainable growth. In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized the travel and tourism sector by creating new avenues for data-driven decision-making, customized services, and innovative marketing strategies. This book chapter literature investigates the applications, advantages, difficulties, and potential uses of AI in the growth of tourism. Smart technologies can be defined as implementing information and communications technologies such as artificial intelligence, internet things, and cloud computing to offer travelers customized information and increased services established by mobile users. New and latest versions of smartphones, and high technology with modern tools play a vital role in the tourism and hospitality industry.
Rise of India as a Medical Tourism Hub
Authors: Chakraborty Oindrila
Published: August 2024

This chapter will center on examining the concept, present condition, objectives, and importance of medical tourism in India. The investigation will also delve into the different forms of medical tourism offered in India. It will also evaluate the factors that contribute to the widespread appeal of medical tourism in the nation and its influence on the overall economy and culture. The research will also analyze how consumerism plays a part in medical tourism and its effects on individual perspectives and contentment. In addition, it will explore the supplementary arrangements made by patients and their families during their medical tourism journey. Furthermore, the study will address the challenges and current developments in medical tourism in India.
The Influence of Museum Experience and Ambiance on Word-of-Mouth and the Mediating Role of Visitor Satisfaction
Authors: Gomez Lacap Jean Paolo , Ang Maria Juillet , Montejo Elmer , Balantoc Evien Reinel , Penalba Pearl Rose , Cadia Raiza Ria
Published: August 2024

In this age of digital innovation, cultural institutions such as museums exert significant efforts to assert their importance and impact on the community and society. Grounded on the stimulus-organism-response model, this chapter aims to investigate how museum experience and ambiance affect word-of-mouth through the indirect influence of visitor satisfaction. The respondents were visitors of the National Museum of the Philippines, and they were identified using the intercept method approach. Using partial least squares (PLS) path modeling, the results revealed that museum experience and ambiance have significant and positive influence on visitor satisfaction and word-of-mouth. Moreover, visitor satisfaction and word-or-mouth were found to be significant and positively related. Visitor satisfaction was also found to mediate the link between ambiance and word-of-mouth.
The Relationship of Green Practices of Hotels and Intention to Visit
Authors: Villar Vella , Gomez Lacap Jean Paolo
Published: August 2024

More and more tourism establishments have been moving towards attaining sustainability through greening their operations, and hotels are not exempted from this movement. Thus, this chapter aims to explore how green practices of hotels influence guests' intention to visit an environmentally-responsible accommodation facility. The participants of the study where guests from select accredited 4- and 5-star hotels in Clark Freeport Zone, Philippines. Using predictive-causal research design, and partial least squares path modeling, the study revealed that hotel guests' subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, and perceived effectiveness were found to have a significant influence on intention to visit an environmentally responsible hotel. Additionally, hotel guests' attitude and environmental awareness moderate the relationship between green practices of hotels and intention to visit an environmentally responsible hotel.
Distance-Based Localization in Wireless Sensor Network Using Exponential Grey Prediction Model
Authors: Wajgi Dipak W. , Tembhurne Jitendra V. , Wajgi Rakhi D.
Published: August 2024

Localization in wireless sensor network is the key for many applications in which location of occurrence of event is very important. Distance based localization techniques have proved to be more accurate and feasible for the location calculation of the sensor nodes. Moreover, Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) based techniques are well adopted by the researcher to calculate the distance between the sensor nodes. The optimized value of RSSI may estimate the location more precisely. In this paper, Exponential Grey prediction model and weighted predicted RSSI values are utilized to provide estimated values of RSSI which are then optimized using an objective function. The decreasing term used in the differential equation of the Grey prediction model provides better prediction accuracy which if optimized provides efficient result. The conventional Grey prediction model is limited by the sample space and scope of applications. The Exponential Grey prediction model used in the proposed algorithm removes those drawbacks and can be applied in real time applications with larger sample space. The objective function used in the proposed algorithm uses weighting factor to be applied to Grey predicted RSSI and weighted predicted RSSI to estimate the RSSI value more accurately. The objective function calculates more near values of RSSI to localize the node more accurately. The simulation results obtained are compared with the latest techniques of RSSI calculation like weighted centroid method, RSSI quantization, TMA and FRBW algorithm. The results show that the proposed algorithm outperform the existing methods for RSSI estimation.
Errata
Authors: Educação Revista Brasileira de História da
Published: August 2024

Errata.
Synthesis and Characterization of Ni(II) Complex with Terephthalate and Pyrazine Mixed Ligands by Solvothermal Method
Authors: Prananto Yuniar Ponco , Finisia Yenni , Tjahjanto Rachmat Triandi , Khunur Mohammad Misbah , Alfath Iqlima Sinta Anggraeni
Published: August 2024

This research aims to synthesize and characterize Ni(II)-terephthalate-pyrazine complex and to determine the thermal stability and porosity profile of the synthesized compound. The Ni(II)-terephthalate-pyrazine was made by solvothermal reaction using dimethylformamide at 130 and 150 °C and in Ni(II):terephthalic-acid:pyrazine mol ratios of 1:1:2 and 1:1:4. The precipitated products were characterized by infrared spectroscopy, SEM, and powder-XRD in order to confirm the presence of both ligand in the synthesized compound. Meanwhile, the thermal stability and porosity profile of the synthesized compound were determined by DTA-TGA and surface area analysers, respectively. Experimental data shows that green pale powder was obtained from all reactions in considerably good yield, which is different from the dark green crystalline solid of Ni(II)-terephthalate. SEM image reveals that the product has a smooth-wavy surface morphology. Infrared spectra of the synthesized compound show peaks of functional groups of C=O, C–O, C=N, and C–N groups, which confirm the presence of both ligands. Powder XRD analysis suggests that the crystal system of the synthesized compound is different from that of the Ni(II)-terephthalate. Based on these analyses, the targeted Ni(II)-terephthalate-pyrazine is successfully obtained. Moreover, the synthesized compound has lower thermal stability than that of Ni(II)-terephthalate, while the BET calculation suggest that the synthesized compound has pore volume of 0.10-0.14 cm3/g, pore diameter of 8.1-10.65 nm and surface area of 24-30 (m2/g). This porosity profile suggest that the synthesized compound is open for further application, such as adsorption or photocatalysis.
In vitro propagation of Valeriana mooni using nodal and leaf explants
Authors: Sudusinghe A.A.M. , De Silva M.A.N. , Ahamed M.A.S. , Senarath W.T.P.S.K.
Published: August 2024

Valeriana mooni (Family: Caprifoliaceae) (S:Lanka Thuwarala) is an endemic plant in Sri Lanka with economical and medicinal values. Previous studies revealed, that V.mooni shares pharmacogenetic properties with Nardostachys jatamansi (Family: Caprifoliaceae) which is extensively utilized in Ayurveda and traditional medicine in Sri Lanka. Since the exportation of N.jatamansi has been restricted in India, it is important to study an efficient propagation system for large- scale production of V. mooni. Therefore this study aimed to establish an efficient protocol for in vitro propagation of V.mooni. The best shoot induction (3.13±0.35) from nodal explants of V.mooni was observed after six week of incubation, in the presence of Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA)(1.0mg/L ) and Kinetin (Kn) (5.0mg/L) with the maximum mean length of the shoots (3.21±0.10cm). The highest shoot multiplication (5.17±0.30) with maximum mean length resulted in MS medium supplemented with IAA (1.0mg/L) and Kn( 5.0mg/L) during first and second sub culture level. Rooting in vitro shoots is successful in half-strength MS medium, supplemented with 1.0mg/L IAA, resulting in the highest mean roots per shoot(7.50±0.30). In the study of in vitro Callus induction using leaf explants. The best callus formation was achieved in MS media supplemented with 2,4- Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) (1,5mg/L) and Kn (1.0 mg/L). Despite no significance improvement was observed in callus induction from leaf explants, utilizing nodal or axillary buds as explants can be a more promising approach for in vitro propagation of V. mooni.
Cultural Significance and Sustainable Use of Loxococcus rupicola (Thw.) H. Wendl. and Drude in Sri Lanka: Implications for Conservation and Religious Practices
Authors: Chandrathilake G. G. T. , Wickramasinghe Dilini , Rajatewa R. A. M. P. M.
Published: August 2024

Loxococcus rupicola (“Ran-Dothalu”), is a nationally endangered palm species found in the southwestern rainforests, central highlands, and Knuckles regions of Sri Lanka. With a predominant Buddhist population, Ran-Dotalu holds sacred reverence among Buddhists. Thus, the present study aimed to elucidate the impact of cultural practices and religious beliefs on their conservation. Comprehensive semi-structured interviews were conducted selecting Buddhist clergy, flower collectors, and devotees(n=114), while data were also extracted from social media platforms. Our findings reveal the multifaceted role of L. rupicola within religious and cultural contexts. Notably, L.rupicola flowers emerge as offerings to the Buddha and deities as an integral component of rituals and medicine, while their seeds are being used as a substitute for the Areca nut. Despite these diverse applications, users were unaware of L.rupicola’s conservation status. Although there are legislative measures, the popularity of L. rupicola as an ornamental species triggers the over-exploitation of seedlings and saplings from natural habitats forming a threat to the population. This study underlines the urgency of aligning conservation strategies with local religious practices, emphasizing the imperative of immediate conservation measures.
Patterns of diversity in stream macroinvertebrate communities in a low-gradient agricultural stream (Sydenham River, Ontario, Canada) were driven by surficial geology and catchment position
Authors: Bresolin Andrea R. , Eveleens Roland A. , Frazao Alyssa A. , Febria Catherine M.
Published: August 2024

Freshwater biodiversity is increasingly at risk wherever land uses such as agriculture exert multiple stressors that degrade habitat quality. Although stream macroinvertebrates act as bioindicators for monitoring these impacts, their responses are context-specific: examining drivers of community composition is therefore important to understand the results of monitoring efforts. In a primarily agricultural landscape, 15 sites across the Sydenham River watershed, Ontario, Canada, were assessed for in-stream habitat quality and stream macroinvertebrate diversity. We predicted that community assemblage would be driven by differences in surficial geology across branch (east branch versus north branch) and catchment position (main stem versus tributary). We found that the main stem of the east branch was characterised by significantly higher proportions (P = 0.053) and abundance (P = 0.038) of Ephemeroptera–Plecoptera–Trichoptera (EPT) taxa than north branch sites were, and sites in the east and north branch tributaries were characterised by significantly lower Hilsenhoff Biotic Index (HBI) scores (P = 0.088). Redundancy analysis found that substrate size was the main driver of community composition, generating a model that described these patterns across branch and catchment position. Our findings suggest that EPT abundance and HBI scores were the variables that were most effective at revealing differences in stream communities due to agricultural impacts and that sediment size is an important driver of these patterns.
Comparison of Balance during Dual-Task in-between Cognitively Impaired and Nonimpaired Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Kandharkar Samruddhi Sunil , Paldhikar Sayli S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Parkinson’s disease manifests as bradykinesia, stiffness, tremors, and abnormalities in gait and balance. When performing dual activities, people with cognitive impairments exhibit noticeable alterations in mobility. The purpose of this study was to determine whether balance during dual tasking is related to cognitive deterioration. The aim was to compare balance during dual-task in-between cognitively impaired (CI) and nonimpaired individuals with Parkinson’s disease. The objective was to evaluate balance using timed up and go test (TUG), TUG-manual (TUG-m), and TUG-cognitive (TUG-c) and to compare its scores in both the groups.

Materials and Methods:

It was a cross-sectional observational study carried out at outpatient department and Parkinson’s societies. The sampling technique was purposive sampling, and the sample size was 22. Subjects were divided into two groups (by stratification method) according to Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) scores as CI and nonimpaired group. Both groups performed TUG with manual task and cognitive task. The time taken to complete all TUG tests was measured.

Results:

Comparison of TUG between the groups showed a highly significant difference in TUG and TUG-m tests (P < 0.001) and a significant difference in TUG-c (P = 0.028).

Conclusion:

The study found a significant difference in balance scores, assessed by the TUG test during dual-task conditions, between CI and nonimpaired individuals with Parkinson’s disease. This highlights the important role cognition plays in balance regulation in Parkinson’s disease.
Comparative Study of Modified Ultrafast Papanicolaou and Standard Papanicolaou Staining Technique for the Assessment of Cervical Smears
Authors: Mitra Nishant , Singh Vivek , Rawat Anamika Singh , Awasthi Seema , Mittal Ankita , Dutta Shyamoli
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Cervical invasive carcinoma is one of the most frequent cancers in the world, and it can be prevented with screening. The papanicolaou (Pap) smear is the most common screening procedure. Pap staining, as it is now done, is costly, requires a large amount of alcohol, and takes a long time.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 170 patients were recruited. One hundred and sixty-six patients, considering eligibility criteria, undergoing Pap smear test. Eligibility criteria: Age: 18–49 years females, who did not have a total hysterectomy done, who consented to participate in the study. Each patient had two smears taken on glass slides. Standard Pap smears were fixed for at least 15 min in 95% ethanol. The other smear was air-dried before being fixed with alcohol formalin and stained with modified ultrafast Pap (MUFP) stain. A comparison of two different techniques was made on the basis of cytomorphological features.

Results:

In studied smears, a clean background was seen in 18.24% and 14.12% of the cases in Pap stain and MUFP, respectively. Kappa analysis found a good correlation between Pap stain and MUFP (kappa: 0.81, P < 0.01). Crisp chromatin was seen in 89.41% and 67.65% of MUFP and Pap staining, respectively. About 88.82% of MUFP stains showed optimal cytoplasmic details and the same was revealed by 81.18% of Pap stains. MUFP has a better quality index (QI) as compared to Pap staining as no case in MUFP had QI of < 0.80 with a statistically significant difference as P < 0.05.

Conclusion:

MUFP is a simple, user-friendly, affordable, and less time-consuming alternative in low-resource areas in comparison to the traditional technique for mass cervical cancer screening.
Prevalence of Diabetes Distress among Adults with Diabetes Mellitus in a Rural Area of West Bengal: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Pal Arpan , Das Nivedita , Ray Soumalya , Mukhopadhyay Dipta Kanti
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Diabetes distress is the emotional burden of diabetics and it may have a devastating impact on the health and well-being of people with diabetes. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of diabetes distress among adults with diabetes mellitus registered in the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) register in a rural area of West Bengal and to identify its distribution across different sociodemographic and treatment-related variables.

Materials and Methods:

This community-based descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in Barrackpore II block of North 24 Parganas district between July 2023 and September 2023. The study population consisted of diabetics registered under the NP-NCD register. The minimum required sample size of 155 was selected through a multistage sampling technique. Socioeconomic and sociodemographic data were collected using standardized questionnaire. Problem Areas in Diabetes questionnaire was used for assessing diabetes distress. Medication Adherence Report Scale questionnaire was used to check for medication adherence. Data were collected by house-to-house visits. Data were analyzed using jamovi (v2.4.8).

Results:

Out of the 142 participants, 52 (36.6%) had diabetes distress. Odds of diabetes distress were higher among <50 years of age (6.25 [2.41, 16.18]), females (3.66 [1.46, 9.21]), individuals with poor adherence to medications (8.40 [3.26, 21.59]), and individuals procuring medicines from private shops (3.47 [1.00, 12.00]).

Conclusion:

Diabetes distress is a public health problem among adults living with diabetes, which may have negative impacts on their quality of life and health outcomes. Further research is needed to explore the possible mitigating measures for the same.
Perceived Barriers of Managing Teaching–Learning during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Descriptive Observational Study among Medical Educators in West Bengal
Authors: Chakraborty Sajib , Das Nivedita , Biswas Puspendu , Ray Soumalya
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a paradigm shift in the landscape of medical education, necessitating a transition from traditional pedagogical methods to digital learning platforms. This study aims to find out the barriers faced by medical educators in West Bengal during the pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

This descriptive type of observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted between December 2022 and February 2023 with a reference period of March 2020 to December 2020. The study population was the medical educators working during the reference period in the various departments of Government Medical Colleges in West Bengal. One hundred and twenty medical educators were selected using simple random sampling and responses were collected through a predesigned and pretested Google Forms. Collected data were checked for consistency and analyzed in GNU PSPP (v 1.4.2). Quantitative data were expressed as mean (±standard deviation) or median (±interquartile range), and qualitative data were expressed in frequency and percentage.

Results:

Out of the 120 sample population, 100 responded within the stipulated 7 days with a response rate of 83%. Most of the respondents had opined that they did not have a dedicated e-classroom facility for online education (87, 87%) and web camera (63, 63%). The majority had a prevailing teacher-centric approach to education including a lack of incorporating student feedback in deciding mode of communication.

Conclusion:

The study identifies the deficiency of logistical support and identifies the importance of capacity building of medical educators for tiding over similar situations in future.
Comparative Evaluation of Effectiveness of Two-handed E-C Clamp Technique versus V-E Technique in Patients with Predicted Difficult Mask Ventilation
Authors: Singh Harsimran , Dugg Kavita , Singh Mirley Rupinder , Sharma Jyoti , Grewal Anju
Published: August 2024

Background:

The skill of bag mask ventilation (BMV) remains pivotal during airway management for maintenance of oxygenation in apneic unconscious patients. Two-handed BMV techniques viz., the traditional E-C and V-E have been proven to be superior to one-handed techniques in optimizing BMV in difficult mask ventilation (DMV) scenarios.

Aims and Objectives:

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of these two techniques of BMV in adult patients with predicted DMV.

Methods:

Four hundred ASA I-III adult patients with predictors of DMV received BMV after induction of anaesthesia using E-C clamp and V-E techniques in a randomized cross-over manner. Ventilator was set to VCV mode delivering tidal volume of 7 ml/kg, respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute, and no PEEP. The primary outcome was exhaled tidal volume (Vte) and secondary outcomes analysed included air-leak, peak inspiratory pressure (PIP), end-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2), minute ventilation (MV), plateau pressure and SpO2.

Results:

Two-handed V-E technique generated significantly higher mean Vte of 377.83 ± 58.43 ml as compared to two-handed E-C technique (303.26 ± 103.34 ml). The air-leak was found to be significantly more with E-C technique (131.05 ml ± 100.95 ml) as compared to V-E technique (59.08 ± 49.62 ml). Higher EtCO2, MV with concomitant lower airway pressures were observed with V-E technique. Failure rate of BMV was significantly higher with E-C technique (19%) as compared to V-E technique (1%) (P = 0.001).

Conclusion:

Two-handed V-E technique results in more effective ventilation as compared to two-handed E-C technique in patients with predictors of difficult BMV. This technique may be preferred as a first option in patients with anticipated DMV.
Assessment of fasting gastric volume using ultrasound in patients undergoing cholecystectomy and other elective surgeries: A prospective observational study
Authors: Kruthi N. , Rose Nadia , Reddy Deepa
Published: August 2024

Background:

Prevention of pulmonary aspiration is an important aspect of anaesthesia practice. Strictly following the pre-operative fasting guidelines can pre-empt pulmonary aspiration in most patients undergoing elective surgeries. Ultrasonographic assessment of patients scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy with symptomatic gall bladder disease has shown a higher incidence of a full stomach.

Aim:

The primary objectives of this study were to assess and compare gastric volume and contents in fasted patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy and other elective surgeries and to evaluate the relationship of fasting gastric volume and contents with other comorbidities and body mass index (BMI).

Materials and Methods:

On the day of surgery, hours of fasting were noted. Patients scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy were in Group L, and patients scheduled for other surgeries were in Group O. Ultrasonography was performed before induction of anaesthesia in the pre-operative room by an experienced anaesthesiologist. The patients were classified based on the Perlas grading scale. To assess the risk of aspiration, the classification previously established by Ven de Putte and Perlas was used. Sixty patients were included in Group L and 60 patients in Group O.

Results:

The incidence of a full stomach was 3.33% in Group O and 20% in Group L. There was no significant association between BMI and gastric residual volume (GRV) in this study. There was no significant difference between GRV between diabetic and non-diabetic patients in Group L and Group O.

Conclusion:

Patients with gall bladder pathologies scheduled for cholecystectomy could have delayed gastric emptying; therefore, anaesthesiologists should be cautious, and bedside assessment tools such as ultrasound, which is easy and non-invasive, should be utilised to stratify the risk of aspiration in such patients.
Allicin Mitigates Diabetic Retinopathy in Rats by Activating Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog-induced Kinase 1/Parkin-mitophagy and Inhibiting Oxidative Stress-mediated NOD-like Receptor Family Pyrin Domain Containing 3 Inflammasome
Authors: Xu Yuanyuan , Yu Jia
Published: August 2024

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the significant disabling outcomes of diabetes mellitus characterized by retinal microvascular damage, inflammation, and neuronal dysfunction. Allicin (Alc), a natural compound found in garlic, has garnered attention for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, positioning it as a potential therapeutic agent for DR. The aim of the present study was to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of Alc in DR management and elucidate its underlying mechanisms of action. We established a DR model in male Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 50, 200–250 g, 12 weeks old) using a high-fat diet for 8 weeks plus a low dose of streptozotocin administered at the start of the 4th week. The diabetic (Diab) animals were administered Alc (16 mg/kg/day, orally), either alone or in combination with mitochondrial division inhibitor-1 (Mdivi-1) as a mitophagy inhibitor, starting 28 days before tissue sampling. We evaluated histopathological changes, metabolic abnormalities associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the expression of proteins regulating pyroptosis (NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3, cleaved-caspase 1, and gasdermin D-N terminal) and mitophagy (phosphatase and tensin homolog-induced kinase 1 [PINK1] and Parkin), as well as the levels of oxidative stress mediators and proinflammatory cytokines. Alc treatment effectively ameliorated histopathological changes and metabolic abnormalities associated with T2DM. It downregulated pyroptosis-related proteins, upregulated mitophagy-related proteins, reduced proinflammatory cytokine levels, and attenuated oxidative stress. Treatment with Mdivi-1 suppressed the beneficial effects of Alc. Our findings highlight the therapeutic potential of Alc in managing DR by targeting multiple pathophysiological pathways, including pyroptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The observed antipyroptotic effects of Alc were partially mediated by the activation of the PINK1/parkin-mediated mitophagy pathway. Additional studies are necessary to thoroughly understand the therapeutic mechanisms of Alc and its viability as a treatment choice for DR.
The Impact of Different Muscle Relaxation Techniques on the Upper Trapezius and Its Relationship with the Middle Trapezius
Authors: Li Gao , Liu Dan , Yang Di , He Ling
Published: August 2024

The relaxation of trapezius muscles is widely believed to alleviate fatigue or injury of the trapezius muscles and reduce the risk of shoulder and neck pain. This study aims to examine the effects of different muscle relaxation techniques on the physical properties of the trapezius muscle and to explore how changes in the physical properties of the upper trapezius muscle affect those of the middle trapezius muscle. Twenty-four healthy males (mean age: 23.08 ± 0.97 years; height: 172.42 ± 4.61 cm; weight: 66.38 ± 6.68 kg; and body mass index: 22.30 ± 1.81 kg/m2), randomly divided into four groups: stretching relaxation group (ST, n = 6), mechanical vibration massage (MV, n = 6), pulse massage (PU, n = 6), and control (CO, n = 6). Measurements using the Myoton digital muscle assessment system were conducted daily over 2 weeks. The experimental groups demonstrated a notable decrease in tension and stiffness, accompanied by heightened elasticity in the upper trapezius muscles. Conversely, the control group exhibited contrasting trends. Although no significant variances were detected among the relaxation techniques, all proved efficacious compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Moreover, relaxation of the upper trapezius muscles significantly influenced the middle trapezius muscles (P < 0.05). Various relaxation methods positively influenced trapezius muscle attributes over 2 weeks, with inter-regional effects noted.
Perception of Leprosy Patients towards the Disease in a Tertiary Care Hospital of High Prevalent District in West Bengal, India
Authors: Datta Jayanti , Bhattacharya Tridibes , Chakraborty Sohanjan , Ahmed S K Shahriar , Patra Aparesh Chandra , Roy Sudipta , Sarkar Aditya P , Das Nilay K
Published: August 2024

Background:

Leprosy is a disease having tremendous social implications due to ostracization. Despite continuous efforts made so far to eliminate leprosy, stigma/misbeliefs/adverse attitude toward leprosy still prevails among common people. Community perceptions and attitudes towards leprosy patients are critical and unique indicator of how society stereotypes leprosy.

Aims:

The qualitative study was conducted to explore the perceptions of leprosy patients towards leprosy.

Materials and Methods:

Two focused group discussions (FGDs) with 19 newly-diagnosed leprosy patients who can speak vernacular were conducted with help of a predetermined FGD-guide between April and June 2019 in the dermatology out-patient department of the tertiary-care center. Both FGD sessions were recorded, transcribed, and translated into English. These verbatims were thematically analyzed and emerging themes were identified with illustrative quotations. Free list and pile sort data obtained were analyzed by Visual Anthropac version 1.0 software for Smith's salience value Cognitive mapping with two-dimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis.

Results:

Small size of wound, not giving importance, failure to realize, bad luck and scared of being isolated etc., were the most common reported perceptions. Overall, five themes emerged after pile sorting, namely ignorance about the disease, stigma and economic burden, positive perception after diagnosis, treatment-related suggestions, and myths and frequently asked questions.

Conclusion:

The study concludes that more IEC campaigns are required to abolish the stigma; and ASHA workers/front-line workers can play a pivotal role. The program (NLEP) can also utilize the role of satisfied cured-patient as peer-educator to improve the attitude of society towards this disease.
The Effects of Methotrexate and Biologics on the Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety in Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Uğurer Ece , Altunay İlknur K. , Özkur Ezgi , Baltan Ecem
Published: August 2024

Background:

In patients with psoriasis, psychiatric co-morbidities accompany quite frequently.

Aims and Objectives:

We aimed to compare the effects of methotrexate and biologics on psychiatric comorbidities, and also examine the relationship of these symptoms with systemic inflammation parameters.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty patients with psoriasis treated with biologics or methotrexate were enrolled. At the baseline and the 24th week of the treatment, the patients filled Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), inflammation was assessed with serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels.

Results:

The decrease in BAI and BDI scores at the 24th week was significant in both the groups. When the decrease in BAI and BDI scores of the two groups were compared, no significant differences were found between the groups. The decrease in DLQI scores of the patients who received biologics was significantly superior compared to the patients who received methotrexate (P = 0.007). There was no significant correlation between the change in serum inflammation parameters and the decrease in the BDI/BAI scores.

Conclusions:

In patients with psoriasis, biologics and methotrexate reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. The difference between the two groups was insignificant. Biologics improve the quality of life better than methotrexate. Systemic inflammation parameters do not reflect the changes in these symptoms in such patients.
Psoriasis and its Association with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Agarwal Komal , Das Sudip , Kumar Rajesh , De Abhishek
Published: August 2024

Psoriasis is a multifactorial, chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory condition. Psoriasis often goes beyond the skin, nails and scalp and involves the eyes (uveitis), joints (arthritis) and several metabolic derangements, as seen in various studies. It is strongly associated with features of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) like hypertension, obesity, dyslipidaemia, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Amongst various skin diseases, MetS has the strongest association with psoriasis. The risk of having MetS is almost doubled in patients with psoriasis as compared to healthy individuals. Both conditions share a common pathophysiological background in terms of genetics, inflammatory markers, lifestyle choices, etc. The association of psoriasis with MetS is clinically important as it influences the prognosis, quality of life and choice of treatment. Systemic conventional drugs should be used with caution in such patients, as their long-term use may contribute to metabolic impairment. The treating dermatologist should be aware of such associations and their implications, and a more holistic approach should be taken to manage psoriasis where equal importance is given to lifestyle and dietary modifications and comorbid conditions, in addition to the pharmacological therapy so as to decrease the burden of the disease for both the patient and the health system.