bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finançar la guerra: els compradors de deute públic a Catalunya entre 1462 i 1472
Authors: Miquel Milian Laura
Published: February 2024

[ca] L’esclat de la guerra civil catalana l’any 1462 va comportar l’adopció de mesures de finançament extraordinàries per part de la Diputació del General de Catalunya i el Consell de Barcelona, les institucions que lideraven el bàndol enfrontat al rei Joan II. Una d’elles va ser l’emissió de deute públic −censals morts−, tasca a la qual es van abocar ambdós organismes ràpidament. L’objectiu d’aquest estudi és veure qui va adquirir aquestes rendes venudes en un període de màxima inestabilitat mitjançant dos treballs diferenciats. El primer, la classificació dels compradors en grups socioprofessionals i segments de població. El segon, la identificació dels principals censalistes de totes dues institucions. Així s’ofereix al lector una radiografia de tots aquells que van posar el seu capital a disposició de la lluita contra el rei.
Huir de la ciudad en tiempos de pestilencia: de reacción atávica a indicador histórico (Cataluña, siglo XV)
Authors: Reixach Sala Albert
Published: February 2024

Los traslados preventivos de familias y autoridades fuera de las ciudades en periodos de epidemia son una constante histórica que puede comprobarse en la Cataluña de la baja Edad Media. A lo largo de la secuencia de brotes posteriores a la Peste Negra y hasta inicios del siglo XVI se documenta esta dinámica en el conjunto de la red urbana catalana y de otros territorios de la Corona de Aragón. En el presente artículo se examinan lo que no siempre fueron huidas desesperadas, sino reacciones que se acaban integrando con relativa normalidad en el funcionamiento de las instituciones. Asimismo, se evalúan el alcance y los límites de utilizar estos traslados al entorno rural en momentos de contagio como indicador para avanzar en la reconstrucción de la secuencia epidémica de la Cataluña del siglo XV centrándonos en los casos significativos de las ciudades de Barcelona y Girona a partir de dos fuentes complementarias, vinculadas a sus respectivos gobiernos municipales.
Caractérisation des formes de contrôle de gestion dans les collectivités locales : le cas des communes béninoises
Authors: EDJIYATO Bolarinwa Gérard , CARASSUS David , GODOWSKI Christophe
Published: February 2024

L’objectif de cette étude est de caractériser les formes de contrôle de gestion dans les collectivités locales béninoises et leur hiérarchie, se positionnant ainsi au cœur des réflexions sur les fortes demandes des organismes publics locaux en termes de besoins de contrôle (Meyssonnier, 2019). En s'appuyant sur le cadre de Malmi et Brown (2008), chacune des dimensions du package de contrôle de gestion a été opérationnalisée, permettant de considérer l'existence, l’importance et le degré d'utilisation des outils et mécanismes de contrôle de gestion. Les résultats mettent en évidence une configuration "top-down" des dimensions du package de contrôle de gestion. Ils génèrent ainsi de réelles implications managériales qui fournissent un cadre de réflexion sur le « contrôle de gestion sur mesure » (Alcouffe et al., 2013), tant dans sa configuration que dans sa contribution à l'acte managérial dans le contexte africain (Livian, 2020).
Characterization of forms of management control in Beninese local governments: the case of Benin’s municipalities
Authors: EDJIYATO Bolarinwa Gérard , CARASSUS David , GODOWSKI Christophe
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to characterize the forms and hierarchy of management control in Beninese local authorities. It is thus positioned at the heart of reflections on the strong demands being made of local public bodies (Meyssonnier, 2019). Drawing on Malmi and Brown's (2008) framework, each dimension of the management control package is operationalized so as to consider the existence, importance and degree of use of management control tools and mechanisms. The results show that the dimensions of the management control package follow a "top-down" configuration. This generates practical managerial implications that provide a framework for reflection on "tailor-made management control" (Alcouffe et al., 2013), regarding both its configuration and its contribution to managerial action in the African setting (Livian, 2020).
Le contenu informationnel des indicateurs alternatifs de performance dans le contexte européen
Authors: Lenormand Gaelle , Nguyen Hoang , Touchais Lionel
Published: February 2024

Le caractère discrétionnaire des indicateurs alternatifs de performance pose la question de leur contenu informationnel, en particulier dans le contexte de l’Union Européenne où, contrairement aux États-Unis, il n’existe pas de règlementation spécifique mais seulement une recommandation sans pouvoir coercitif. À partir de données collectées dans les communiqués de presse de firmes françaises et britanniques, nous constatons que les mesures de résultat non-GAAP aboutissent à une information financière de meilleure qualité que les mesures comptables correspondantes. Ces indicateurs alternatifs de performance peuvent toutefois être utilisés de manière opportuniste dans des situations à risque lorsque les groupes n’atteignent pas certains seuils de résultats comptables.
Beyond Instruction
Authors: Pacheco Derrick Raphael , Devies Brittany
Published: February 2024

This chapter will focus on creating culturally relevant online learning environments through a critical investigation of the culturally relevant leadership learning model. Within this chapter, there will be a discussion and explanation of the model and its continued use from the perspectives of both course instructors and students who co-create the online learning environment. This chapter will highlight testimony from chapter authors and offer reflective questions for readers to gain insight into effective practices of creating online culturally relevant learning environments in their unique perspectives. While this chapter focuses heavily on higher education learning environments, connections and applications to all educational environments are made for applicability across various contexts.
Digital Entrepreneurship and E-Commerce
Authors: Shrivastava Bhuwan , Verma Madhav , Dave Sumita
Published: February 2024

This research chapter explores the opportunities and challenges presented by digital entrepreneurship and e-commerce for Bhutan's international trade. Bhutan, a small landlocked country in South Asia, has traditionally relied on traditional trade methods. However, with the advent of digital technologies and the growth of e-commerce, new avenues for international trade have emerged. This chapter examines the potential benefits of digital entrepreneurship and e-commerce for Bhutan, while also addressing the challenges that need to be overcome for successful integration into the global digital economy. By analyzing the current state of digital entrepreneurship and e-commerce in Bhutan, this research aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders involved in shaping Bhutan's international trade strategies.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainable Development (SD) in the Digital Age
Authors: Herath Siriyama Kanthi , Herath Laksitha Maheshi
Published: February 2024

The primary objective of this chapter is to offer readers a thorough grasp of the intricate relationships that exist between organizational policies, digital tools, and the impacts that technology has on people and the natural world. Today's businesses profit from having easy access to a plethora of online resources and tools that promote improved communication, openness, gathering and interpreting information, and the spurring of innovation. These capabilities have allowed for the integration of CSR and SD principles into major company planning, promoting long-term sustainability and beneficial social results. The chapter examines how CSR and SD practices have grown as a result of digital technology, highlighting both the challenges and the new potential. Businesses that use the digital era for CSR and SD could open the door to a more prosperous and ecologically conscious future for humanity.
Navigating Cancer Epidemiology
Authors: Asad Mohammad Majed , Al-Refai Abdullah , Abushattal Saqr , Alkhateeb Abedalrhman
Published: February 2024

In this chapter, the authors aimed to assess the cancer incidence and epidemiology among Jordanians from 2012 to 2018, utilizing data from the Jordan cancer registry (JCR) and Microsoft power BI for visualization. The authors collected cancer cases over this period, analyzed demographic information, and calculated incidence rates. The results revealed an overall average crude cancer incidence rate of 94.6/100,000 population, with the highest age-standardized rates observed in 2013. Breast cancer was the most prevalent among females, while bronchus and lung cancer led among males. These findings underscore the need for robust screening programs and the potential of digital tools like interactive dashboards in early detection. This study contributes valuable insights into Jordan's cancer landscape and suggests proactive healthcare strategies for the future, including predictive analytics for forecasting cancer cases.
A Brief Reflection on the Importance of the Role of Financial Education for a Central Bank
Authors: Nuta Alina Cristina , Toderascu Carmen , Mirsolea Laura
Published: February 2024

Education has significant implications for the economic prosperity of every individual, community, and nation. Education allows us to accumulate knowledge and develop the skills necessary to become active citizens in society. The governments of many countries included education as an absolute priority in their programs, and the United Nations has included it in the central Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda. The importance of approaching financial education as a research area grew with the outbreak of the global financial crisis in 2008 and currently represents one of the main objectives of educational reforms at the international level. Suddenly, the need to educate people to make correct and well-informed decisions grew and financial institutions developed their role in educating people of all ages, considering the possibility of enhancing financial inclusion. Thus, international and national institutions, organizations, academia, and practitioners created programs to improve people's financial skills and literacy.
Governance and Policy Transformations in Central Banking
Authors: Kumari Reenu , Singh Renu
Published: February 2024

The MSME sector, which employs over 11.10 crore workers in non-agricultural activities and contributes to approximately 50% of India's exports, is the backbone of the economy. Unfortunately, the ongoing health emergency has created a distressing situation for these units, as the severely constrained demand has led to a significant decline in their revenue. This situation is further exacerbated by the pandemic, which has created a myriad of problems for the sensitive MSME sector, as their liquidity depends on the daily demand for their product, and they lack significant cash reserves. This is putting the sustainability of MSMEs at stake, which is concerning since they contribute approximately 30-35% to the GDP. The current scenario presents a very gloomy picture of the prospects of India's economic development. This chapter discusses the nonperforming assets (NPAs) and their impact on the sustainability of the MSME sector. This chapter also discusses the causes and effects NPAs on the sustainability of the MSME sector.
Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) in Pakistan
Authors: Momin Qazi Abdul , Amin Muhammad , Maeesum Ali , Shamshad Huzaifa
Published: February 2024

This chapter explores the implications and prospects of Central Bank digital currencies (CBDC) in Pakistan, focusing on its potential to transform the financial ecosystem. The emergence of blockchain and distributed ledger technologies has incited significant interest in digital currencies, leading central banks worldwide to research and develop CBDCs. In Pakistan, the implementation of CBDC presents opportunities for modernizing the financial infrastructure, enhancing financial inclusion, and fostering economic growth. The study employs a mixed-method approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative analyses. It examines the types of CBDCs, namely wholesale and retail, and their potential impacts on payment safety and efficiency. A thorough literature review provides insights into the multifaceted consequences of CBDCs on payment systems, monetary policy, and financial stability. Additionally, the research explores the challenges of CBDC implementation in Pakistan, including cybersecurity risks, technological limitations, and potential threats to financial stability. The findings highlight the need for comprehensive research, international collaboration, and a robust regulatory framework to mitigate risks and maximize the benefits of CBDCs. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on digital currencies and their role in shaping the future of money and banking in emerging economies like Pakistan.
Economic Perspectives
Authors: Jhansy Avula , Oladri Renuka , Priya Bodapatla Sindhu , Saripalli Bhanu Prakash
Published: February 2024

Managing electronic trash (or “e-waste”) offers both opportunities and challenges in the modern era. There are excellent opportunities for recycling and recovering valuable resources via good management as electronic devices and technology use grow. Lowering the demand for new materials and increasing employment possibilities in the recycling and waste management sectors can result in cost savings. But controlling e-waste can be difficult. Due to the toxic compounds, including lead and mercury, that are present in electronic gadgets, the immense amount of electronic consumption has the potential to overwhelm the waste management infrastructure that is already in place, causing environmental degradation. Adequate regulatory frameworks and efficient e-waste policy enforcement are essential to addressing the issues related to e-waste management. This study explored the potential and barriers to promoting sustainable practices to analyze the economic aspects of managing e-waste.
AI-Powered Hospital Accounting
Authors: Pramanik Sabyasachi
Published: February 2024

Healthcare organizations have unique challenges in preserving their financial stability. Due to the rising cost of healthcare, changing payment models, and the need to provide patients with high-quality treatment, hospitals are under continual pressure to optimize their financial operations. Conventional hospital accounting methods may not be enough in this rapidly evolving environment. The potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to transform hospital accounting and provide a means of enhancing financial stability is explored in this chapter. Automation, data analytics, and advanced machine learning algorithms are used in AI-driven hospital accounting to improve accuracy, speed up financial processes, and support well-informed decision-making.
Using Artificial Intelligence as a Public Health Surveillance Tool During Salmonella Outbreaks
Authors: Burrell Darrell Norman , McAndrew Ian
Published: February 2024

The increasing prevalence of illnesses, particularly Salmonella infections, presents a significant public health challenge. Traditional surveillance and outbreak management methods are resource-intensive and often must catch up to real-time occurrences. This chapter explores the application of artificial intelligence (AI) within a systems thinking framework to revolutionize public health surveillance and outbreak response for Salmonella. By harnessing AI-driven tools for data analysis, early detection, source attribution, and intervention planning, public health agencies can enhance their capacity to prevent and mitigate Salmonella outbreaks. This chapter discusses the potential of AI-driven systems to transform the landscape of public health. The chapter proposes AI as a holistic approach integrating technology, data, and human expertise for more effective Salmonella outbreak control based on actual life outbreaks and the historical contexts of the of a real outbreak event.
The Rehabilitation Effect of Rehabilitation Nursing Scheme for Sprinters With Knee Ligament Injuries
Authors: Hu Bin , Murayama Yoh
Published: February 2024

Using the convenient sampling method, the control group and the observation group were established. The control group was given a routine nursing scheme, while the observation group was given rehabilitation nursing scheme. The difference of curative effect between the two groups were compared and the results were analyzed and summarized. Results of the quality of life scores of patients in the two groups were compared. The results showed that the quality of life score of the patients in the observation group were higher than that of the control group (P<0.05); the satisfaction scores of patients was also compared. The results showed that the satisfaction scores of patients in the experimental group were significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.05), so the patients in the observation group are better than the control group. The rehabilitation nursing scheme has a certain effect on the rehabilitation of knee ligament injury of printing workers.
Feature Extraction of Dialogue Text Based on Big Data and Machine Learning
Authors: Liu Xuelin , Zhang Hua , Cheng Yue
Published: February 2024

In this article, a dialogue text feature extraction model based on big data and machine learning is constructed, which transforms the high-dimensional space of text features into the low-dimensional space that is easy to process, so that the best feature words can be selected to represent the document set. Tests show that in most cases, the classification accuracy of this model is higher than 88%, and the recall rate is higher than 85%, thus achieving the goal of higher classification accuracy with less computation. When extracting the features of dialogue texts, there is no need for preprocessing, just count the data such as lexical composition, sentence length and sentence-to-sentence relationship of the target text, and make linear analysis to obtain key indicators and weights. Based on this, the classification model can achieve good results, thus effectively reducing the workload and computation of text classification.
Adrenocorticotropic hormone Secreting Olfactory Neuroblastoma producing Ectopic Cushing’s Syndrome
Authors: Eleperuma D. D. , Eranga U. R. R. , Kirihene K. D. R. A.
Published: February 2024

Olfactory neuroblastoma is a rare sinonasal tumour of neuroendocrine type arising from olfactory neuroepithelium. Cushing`s syndrome is a clinical entity occurring due to elevated serum cortisol levels which is commonly due to exogenous steroids. Ectopic ACTH giving rise to endogenous Cushing’s syndrome requires vigilant evaluation in recognition of ectopic site. This syndrome gives rise to multitude of metabolic derangements with high morbidity which warrants early evaluation and management.
Congenital absent epiglottis causing aspiration in infant
Authors: Eleperuma D. D. , Eranga U. R. R. , Yasawardena A. D. K. S. N.
Published: February 2024

Congenital absent epiglottis is a rare phenomenon which has variable clinical presentation. Most of the cases are asymptomatic and go unnoticed to the adulthood. Some neonates present with stridor and respiratory distress and sometimes the absence give rise to obstructive sleep apnoea features. Further some infants with absent epiglottis may present with significant aspiration of feeds as well as own secretions which occasionally may give rise to life threatening chest infections and growth retardation.Management of aspirating infant is by swallowing therapy, altering the enteral feeding route (Nasogastric tube or percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG)) or in rare occasions may require tracheostomy and supraglottic closure. The case discussed here is of a infant with aspiration detected to have absent epiglottis managed by swallowing therapy and PEG insertion.
Teratoma presenting as a nasal polypoidal mass in a newborn: an endoscopic resection
Authors: Mohamed M. M. , Yasawardena A. D. K. S. N. , Kirihena K. D. R. A.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Extragonadal teratomas are more common in the sacrococcygeal region. Although teratomas arising from the head and neck region are rare, they can give rise upper airway obstruction in the newborn, requiring early excision. A ‘term’ new born delivered with a polypoidal mass protruding through the right nostril, developed respiratory distress due to upper airway obstruction and required intubation. CT and MRI scan of the head showed an irregular shaped mass occupying the right nasal cavity, nasopharynx and protruding into the oral cavity with the possibly of being a teratoma. The tumour was resected endoscopically via transnasal and transoral routes. Histopathology confirmed it as mature teratoma.Conclusion: Although most teratoma are benign and asymptomatic, teratomas arising in the head and neck can give rise to upper airway obstruction and respiratory distress in new born and requires intubation to secure airway and early resection.
Demography, aetiology, and positional test findings of 187 consecutive patients diagnosed as having BPPV at ENT unit, Teaching Hospital Anuradhapura
Authors: Daminda D. A. D. G. , Jayasena K. D. N. U. D. , Abeysundara U. B. , Agampodi S. B. , Muhandiram E. C.
Published: February 2024

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common vestibular disorder encountered in balance clinics. Diagnosis by Dix-Hallpike test is straightforward. However, diagnosis can still be complicated due to the presence of number of different subtypes and negative findings. Objectives of the study are to determine demographic pattern, positional test findings in patients diagnosed as having BPPV and to discuss the reasons for positional vertigo with negative physical examination findings. A subgroup analysis was done from a cross sectional descriptive study that was carried out at ENT clinic at Teaching Hospital Anuradhapura from 1st of March 2016 to 28th February 2017. Hundred and eighty-seven (187) consecutive patients with symptoms suggestive of BPPV were assessed .Posterior semi-circular canal involvement as the commonest variant with 70% diagnosed without video Frenzels. Although symptomatic during positional testing, we could not demonstrate clear nystagmus in 24.6% patients in light. Geotrophic or apogeotrophic horizontal nystagmus on supine roll test and down beating nystagmus on Dix-Hallpike test were found 4.2% and 1% respectively.Our findings on posterior canal and positional test negative BPPV are compatible with previously published data. However, diagnosis of lateral appears to be still inadequate. Early referral, routine use of video Frenzel recording at clinics, routine use of seated pitch test, repeated testing may help in reducing false negative rates and finding a specific diagnosis.
Migrated oesophageal foreign body retrieval with trans cervical approach in a district general hospital of Sri Lanka
Authors: Dissanayake D. M. A. H. , Dissanayake K. P. , Ramasundara K. H. C. M. , Rajapaksha R. M. G. P. , Azeeza M. R. F. , Bandara E. G. M. G. N. , Abhayasinghe P. R. R. W. M. R. D.
Published: February 2024

A 53-year-old previously healthy patient presentated with an impending airway obstruction due to a retropharyngeal and a para-oesophageal abscess caused by a delayed impacted foreign body,failed retrieval with rigid oesophagosopy. The patient was successfully managed by exploration of the neck with trance cervical approach in a district general hospital setting. Awareness and early referral from primary care setting could have prevented a potentially life threatening complication.
A or AB? Resolving the dilemma of weaker subgroup through serological evaluation: Reporting two cases from Uttarakhand
Authors: Prasanth Vaidehi , Banerjee Pradip , Kaur Daljit , Kumari Dixa , Khiamniungan Chanchi B. , Bhatia Juhi , Jain Ashish , Negi Gita
Published: February 2024

Blood group discrepancies and their resolution can sometimes become tricky when it comes to weaker subgroups. A number of weaker B subgroups, which are very infrequently encountered, have been described, including B3, Bx, Bm, and Bel. The varied serologic reactivity of these subgroups, using routine human polyclonal antisera, usually startles the personnel involved in such blood group discrepancies and interpretation is either delayed or incorrect. Here, we present two cases of AB Rh (D) positive with weak B subgroups, detected in two whole blood donors. Their red cells showed strong agglutination with anti-A, anti-AB, and anti-D, no reaction with anti-B, and serum showed no reaction with A1, A2, B, and O cells. Adsorption-elution procedure and salivary testing suggested the presence of a weaker B subgroup (Bel). Hence, ABel subgroup was reported for both the donors. Resolution of blood group discrepancies is crucial, as it would aid to prevent hemolytic transfusion reactions due to inaccurate blood group interpretation.
Molecular typing of Kell, Kidd, and Duffy antigens in direct antiglobulin test-positive autoimmune hemolytic anemia patients
Authors: Sonker Atul , Dubey Anju , Mohan Yatendra
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

In autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) patients, conventional pretransfusion testing is difficult to interpret due to the presence of autoantibodies which may show panreactivity. Molecular phenotyping of red cell antigens could potentially be used to precisely match blood units, thereby reducing the need to perform intensive serologic laboratory testing, hence time delay in providing transfusion to such patients. The aim of this study is to perform the molecular typing for Kell, Kidd, and Duffy blood group antigens in direct antiglobulin test (DAT)-positive red blood cells of AIHA patients and provide corresponding antigen-matched blood for transfusion therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Blood samples from 50 normal blood donors and 30 DAT-positive AIHA patients were tested using standard serological techniques and polymerase chain reaction-based methods for Kell (K/k), Kidd (Jka/Jkb), and Duffy (Fya/Fyb) blood group systems. Five patients requiring blood transfusion were given donor blood units identical for Kell, Kidd, and Duffy antigens and followed up.

RESULTS:

Genotyping and phenotyping results were 100% concordant for normal blood donors. Serological phenotyping of minor red cell antigens showed varied degree of agglutination for AIHA patients. The molecular typing was able to detect the antigen frequency accurately in all samples. The results of genotyping were used to provide Kell-, Kidd-, and Duffy-matched blood for transfusion therapy to AIHA patients with no adverse reaction.

CONCLUSION:

Molecular blood group typing has proved immensely useful in the determination of actual antigen profile and hence in providing appropriate transfusion support in patients with AIHA reduced risk of transfusion reactions and alloimmunization.
Prevalence of “weak B” phenotypes and their evaluation and differentiation in healthy blood donor population in Eastern India
Authors: Das Sudipta Sekhar , Mukherjee Sourav , Chowdhury Sourav
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Examples of group B red cells that react weakly or not at all with anti-B have been described. Subgroups of B such as B3, Bx, Bm, and Bel are rare and are less frequently reported. We studied the frequency of subgroups of B in our healthy blood donor population and serologically characterized and differentiated these subgroups.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The 9-year prospective study included 84,534 healthy blood donors. Initial blood grouping and antibody screening of all donor samples were performed using automated solid-phase assay. Any sample showing blood group discrepancy or weaker agglutination was subjected to further immunohematological investigations.

RESULTS:

Among 84,534 healthy donors, “B” blood group was found in 29,190 (34.53%). Weak B phenotypes were demonstrated in 9 (0.031%) B donors. Among the 9 weak B phenotypes, B3 was the most common followed by Bm. The frequency of B3, Bm, Bx, and Bel in our blood donor population was found to be 1 in 21,133, 1 in 28,178, 1 in 84,534, and 1 in 84,534, respectively. Red cell agglutination with anti-B and anti-AB varied from Wk+ to 2+ with or without mixed-field agglutination in the B3 and Bx phenotypes. Naturally occurring anti-B of immunoglobulin M type was detected in the Bx donor. Two (22.2%) of the 9 donors were found to be nonsecretor. Adsorption-elution demonstrated “B” antigen specificity in different strengths in Bm, Bx, and Bel phenotypes.

CONCLUSION:

We conclude that differentiating weak subgroups of “B” by serological assays is possible to a great extent with technical expertise. Mistyping weak subgroups of B as “O” group may lead to reporting errors and wrong blood transfusion. Therefore, blood centers in developing countries including India should establish simple techniques to detect and differentiate weak subgroups and develop procedures to ensure safe blood transfusion and transplantation.
Futility of fresh frozen plasma in the correction of coagulopathy prior to image-guided drainage of infected collections: Results from a prospective case–control study
Authors: Porchezhian Pradakshna , Arora Navneet , Gorsi Ujjawal , Singh Lakhvinder , Hans Rekha , Kumar Narender , Ahluwalia Jasmina , Malhotra Pankaj , Jain Arihant
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is frequently used as prophylactic hemostatic therapy for correction of periprocedural coagulopathy. This practice is frequently based on the assumption that deranged international normalized ratio (INR) predicts the risk of periprocedural bleeding and that FFP transfusion is effective in mitigating the procedure-associated bleeding risks. There is limited evidence to support both these assumptions in the context of image-guided drainage of infected collections.

AIMS:

The study aimed to analyze the efficacy of weight-based standard FFP dose for correction of infection-associated coagulopathy in patients with clinicoradiologically diagnosed infected collections planned for image-guided drainage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this prospective case–control study, 229 patients with clinicoradiologically diagnosed infected abdominal collection(s) planned to undergo image-guided drainage were included. Cases and controls were defined as patients with baseline INR >1.2–3 (in the absence of any other bleeding diathesis) and INR ≤1.2, respectively. Cases received 10–15 mL/kg of FFP before drainage. Costs and time delays in drainage among the two groups, efficacy of plasma transfusion in the correction of coagulopathy, incidence of transfusion reactions, bleeding complications, and inhospital mortality were analyzed.

RESULTS:

There were 117 cases and 112 controls. A total of 445 FFP units were utilized. The median (interquartile range) time required from diagnosis of collection to the procedure was 25.3 (20.8–40.3) hours among cases and 16.4 (8.7–20.1) hours among controls (P < 0.001). FFP transfusion resulted in INR normalization (≤1.2) only in 7.9% of cases (n = 9). Among the 81 cases who had pretransfusion INR ≥1.5, INR improved to ≤1.5 in 49 (60.4%) patients. There was an average of 2.9% decrease in INR per unit of FFP transfused. No bleeding complications were noted in patients undergoing drainage despite a persistent deranged INR (>1.5) postplasma transfusion. Transfusion reactions occurred in 17/117 (14.5%) patients. There were no deaths among the controls while five patients died among the cases.

CONCLUSION:

Prophylactic FFP transfusion for infection-associated coagulopathy leads to a significant delay in lifesaving drainage procedures. Minority of patients attain normalization of INR with FFP transfusion.
Acute transfusion reaction and its associating factors: An insight from Indonesian National Referral Hospital
Authors: Wahidiyat Pustika Amalia , Marpaung Elida , Iskandar Stephen Diah , Pratanata Anastasia Michelle , Sitompul Nelly Erywaty
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS:

Remarkable progress has been made in controlling infection, leaving transfusion reaction a great concern following blood administration. Optimal hemovigilance is the key in ensuring transfusion safety, yet many centers’ system is still far below standard. Reported data are lacking from our part of the world, hence we aim to provide an insight into acute transfusion reaction profile from Indonesia’s National Referral Hospital to refine hemovigilance system, especially in a resource-constrained center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS:

We collected transfusion data from Kiara, Cipto Mangunkusumo National Referral Hospital, Jakarta, throughout 2018. Data include age, sex, diagnosis, type of blood products received, reaction symptoms, and its severity, along with time to each reaction’s occurrence. We analyzed these data to find any significant association.

RESULTS:

Throughout 2018, there were a total of 25,798 blood transfusions. Among these, there were 133 of ATR reported (0.52%). Fresh frozen plasma, thrombocyte concentrate (TC), and packed red cells-regular (PRC-R) resulted in the highest reaction incidence where PRC elicited a fair amount of moderate-severe reactions (54.7%) while TC and plasma components mostly in mild reactions (71.4% and 80%). We also found a significant correlation between time to reaction onset with both types of blood products and patient’s diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS:

Various recipient’s factors are paramount in predicting ATR and hence preventive strategies should be conducted in a more personalized way. We present the rationale to take into account patient’s diagnosis and types of blood product received to anticipate more serious reactions and in a timely manner.
Impact of early and empirical cryoprecipitate administration on the transfusion requirements in trauma patients with hemorrhagic shock
Authors: Bhandari Arun , Chaurasia Rahul , Sagar Sushma , Subramanian Arulselvi , Sinha Tej Prakash , Kumar Abhinav , Pandey Hem Chandra , Patidar Gopal Kumar , Bagaria Dinesh Kumar , Singh Yudhyavir
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Fibrinogen is the earliest coagulation factor falling to the critical levels in severely bleeding trauma patients. Early fibrinogen supplementation in these patients has been recommended to improve the patient outcomes. However, its role in reducing the overall transfusion requirement remains equivocal.

AIMS:

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of early cryoprecipitate (CRYO) administration on the transfusion requirement and the coagulation assays in trauma patients with hemorrhagic shock.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN:

An interventional study was conducted in two phases at level I trauma center. During the 1st phase (Group I), patients received blood components in accordance with current practices, whereas in the 2nd phase (Group II), patients received an additional CRYO (pool of 6 units) empirically within 90 min of admission.

METHODS:

Demographics, clinical, injury characteristics, transfusion requirements, blood counts, and coagulation assays were assessed for both the study groups.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS:

The comparative analysis was done for blood component utilization and coagulations assays (prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and fibrinogen levels) in both study groups.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS:

A total of 50 patients in Group I and 51 patients in Group II were recruited. Demographics, clinical, injury characteristics, and laboratory investigations were comparable, except for heart rate, blood pressure, and injury scores. Significant reductions in red blood cell and platelet transfusions were observed, whereas the fresh-frozen plasma transfusions remained unaffected. The results of coagulation assays at 18–24 h were similar for both groups. Although no significant differences in fibrinogen levels were observed despite CRYO administration, decreased requirement for transfusions indicated an improved hemostasis in CRYO group.
Seroprevalence and risk factor relationship of hepatitis B core antibody among blood donors in Cañete, Peru
Authors: Iturrizaga-Blas Ruben , Sanchez-Jacinto Billy
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Hepatitis B virus is a global public health problem. There has been a growing interest in blood donors with a hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) reactive and negative hepatitis B surface antigen as a marker for occult hepatitis B infection. The aim was to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors related to anti-HBc in blood donors at the Rezola Hospital in Cañete in 2019.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional study and sample size were 186 blood donors’ formats. The dependent variable was reactive anti-HBc, and the independent was sex, marital status, and age categories. Bivariate analysis included the Chi-square test, considered statistically significant at P<0.05. In addition, a general linear model was used to estimate prevalence ratios in crude analysis to assess factors associated with the outcome.

RESULTS:

A total of 202 blood donors were included in the study, and seroprevalence of anti-HBc in our study was 13.37% (n = 27), where 25 (92.59%) were male. A relationship was found between the variable’s age categories, marital status, and anti-HBc (P < 0.05). Seroprevalence of anti-HBc in men is 3.48 times compared to women (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.85–14.13; P = 0.081) and people older than 50 years was 4.45 times concerning the group of 18–29 years (95% CI, 1.17–16.87; P = 0.028) adjusted by sex and marital status.

CONCLUSIONS:

Seroprevalence in the Rezola Hospital is relatively low and is related to people over 50 years of age and married/cohabiting marital status.
Red cell antibodies or noise? A case series on reactivity against the ingredients in column matrix
Authors: Biswas Durba , Basu Debapriya , Reddy Mahua , Datta Suvro Sankha
Published: February 2024

Noise in the immunohematological investigations can be described as a false reactivity of red blood cells (RBCs) in serologic testing that is not related to the interaction of RBC antigens and antibodies that the test system is intended to detect. These false-positive reactions can cause confusion during the cross-matching and RBC antibody screening and may result in delays in patient transfusion. Although these antibodies are predominantly clinically insignificant, proper laboratory work-up is indicated to avoid misidentification of a clinically significant antibody as a noise. In this report, we describe the three rare cases where the reactivity was found against the ingredients of the column matrix (glass beads). It is imperative that such reactivity is recognized and resolved during the investigation of blood group discrepancies, positive RBC antibody screens and in cases of positive cross-matches.
Added Value of Mean Blood Pressure and Placental Growth Factor in the Early Detection of Pre-eclampsia among Gabonese Women
Authors: Lendoye Elisabeth , Minkobame Ulysse Pascal , Makoyo Komba Opheelia , Assoumou Obiang Pamphile , Nkene Eya'a Luce , Bisvigou Ulrich , Moukambi Lydie , Ndeboko Bénédicte , Ntamack Jacques Albert Bang , Ngoungou Edgard Brice , Siawaya Joël Fleury Djoba , Abessolo Félix Ovono , Meyé Jean François
Published: February 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the use of the Foetal Medicine Foundation (FMF) algorithm in routine practice for early pre-eclampsia (PE) screening in Libreville.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a cohort study on pregnant women within their 11–13 + 6 weeks of gestation (WG). We had measured mean blood pressure (MBP), placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase 1, Uterine Artery Pulsatility Index (UtA-PI) and resistance index (UtA-RI). Statistical analyses were considered significant for P < 0.05.

Results:

There were 30 participants. At the first quarter (T1), 36.7% of them were at high risk of PE according to the FMF algorithm and were consequently prescribed aspirin (100 mg/d). By the end of the observation period, we have found a 13% incidence of PE. MBP was higher in the higher risk PE group than in the lower risk group as early as the T1 (90 ± 6 vs. 81 ± 6 mmHg; P = 0.0007, threshold is >86 mmHg/area under the curve (AUC) = 0.86; P = 0.0012). It was the same for PlGF (58 ± 24 vs. 88 ± 38 pg/ml; P = 0.03; threshold is <71.98 pg/ml/AUC = 0.73; P = 0.03). At the second quarter (20–27 WG), biochemical markers did not change between the two groups. UtA-RI, UtA-PI and notch were unconclusive individually, but they are still very important for FMF algorithm application.

Conclusion:

Early detection of PE using the FMF algorithm is possible in routine practice in Gabon. MBP and PlGF levels at T1 seem to be very significant. However, the present study must continue to obtain the larger cohorts that would achieve more conclusive statistical analyses.
Medical Checks for Professional Football Players in Franceville, Gabon
Authors: Ekomy Hervé Martial , Abogo Joefred Mbogho , Begouabe Herman , Kinga Armel , Eboue Brice Angwe , Ekouaghe Laetitia Pauline Abang , Karmakar Jayanta , Obiang Cedric Sima
Published: February 2024

The Aim of the Study:

To describe the clinical and non-clinical characteristics of Gabon footballers in the Haut-Ogooue Polyclinic in Franceville, Gabon, during visits, to assess whether they are not contraceptive to sports.

Patients and Methods:

A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in the city of Franceville, Gabon, in May 2022. The first and second divisions of footballers were subjected to medical examinations to determine whether they had any contraindications for playing sports, including clinical examinations, rest electrocardiograms (ECG), rest cardiac ultrasounds, chest X-rays, Rick-Dickson and biological checks.

Results:

The average age of 88 footballers (22–25 years) was 23 years. Blood pressure (BP) is abnormal in 19% of players, and alcohol and tobacco consumption is reported in 70% and 30%, respectively. Exercise adaptation was also closely associated with age (P= 0.00137724; P = 0.008974301), football position (P= 0.009957548;P= 0.006646182) and alcohol consumption (P= 0.000531971). Electrical and biological changes were 16% and 86.79%, respectively. Sinus bradycardia and first-degree atrioventricular block are the most common ECG abnormalities. Metabolic, inflammatory, infectious, electrolyte and anaemia syndromes were found in 22.64%, 24.53%, 19.81%, 7.55% and 12.26%, respectively. Midfielders and defenders have shown the greatest changes in biological parameters.

Conclusion:

Medical checks are essential to determine if sports are contraindicated, as they can help identify physiological and pathological conditions and improve the monitoring of athletes.
Placental Site Trophoblastic Tumour Mimicking Placenta Previa
Authors: Bukar Mohammed , Kawuwa Mohammed Bello , Nggada H. A. , Pindiga H. U. , Malgwi Adamu
Published: February 2024

We present a 42-year-old Nigerian woman who had three previous caesarean sections and is being managed conservatively for placenta previa. She underwent a caesarean hysterectomy on account of uncontrollable bleeding, and histopathology revealed a placental site trophoblastic tumour.
Time Domain Analysis of Ride Comfort and Energy Dissipation
Characteristics of Automotive Vibration Proportional–Integral–Derivative
Control
Authors: Li Jie , Dou Lei , Zhao Qi , Qiao Bin , Liu Jiayong , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2024

A time domain analysis method of ride comfort and energy dissipation
characteristics is proposed for automotive vibration
proportional–integral–derivative (PID) control. A two-degrees-of-freedom single
wheel model for automotive vibration control is established, and the
conventional vibration response variables for ride comfort evaluation and the
energy consumption vibration response variables for energy dissipation
characteristics evaluation are determined, and the Routh stability criterion
method was introduced to assess the impact of PID control on vehicle stability.
The PID control parameters are tuned using the differential evolution algorithm,
and to improve the algorithm’s adaptive ability, an adaptive operator is
introduced, so that the mutation factor of differential evolution algorithm can
change with the number of iterations. The PID control parameter optimization
method presented in this article is versatile and can be used to optimize PID
control parameters under different conditions. This article provides the results
of PID control parameter optimization under different conditions. Based on PID
control and its parameter tuning, a time domain solution method for two types of
vibration response variables, their root mean square values, and the average
power of energy consumption vibration of automotive vibration PID control is
proposed. Two kinds of simulation test schemes are designed under urban driving
conditions, which are commonly used Class B road and pulse road, with a commonly
used vehicle speed of 60 km/h. The ride comfort and energy dissipation
characteristics of passive suspension and PID control are compared. The results
show that introducing energy consumption vibration response variables as a
supplement to the conventional vibration response variables is beneficial for
expanding the research and application scope of the automotive vibration and its
control; with the sprung mass acceleration deviation as the control input, PID
control can effectively improve the vehicle ride comfort, but it makes the
vibration energy dissipation characteristics worse.
Application of Color Light-Emitting Diodes in Automotive Exterior
Lighting
Authors: Janeva Azdejkovic Mersida , Denis Xavier , Matsuyama Yuji , Miyairi Hiroshi
Published: February 2024

Trends in automotive lighting are moving toward vehicle exterior lights, which
will communicate with drivers and surroundings. The small size, lower power
consumption, high efficiency, and substantially long life make LEDs a leading
light source in automotive lighting applications. Losses in optical power for
InGaN-based LEDs can be reduced up to 45% compared to AlGaInP, and
phosphor-converted color LEDs can contribute to stable light output over the
lifetime. Color LEDs will fulfill different requirements such as uniformity in
color and luminance. Additionally, the mixing of different colors with white
will underline the exterior features and aesthetic design of vehicles.
High-Efficiency Methanol Engine Development for Heavy Commercial
Vehicles
Authors: He Jianxiang , Song Zhihui , Ge Feng , Zhang Hua , Ma En , Xu You , Liu Yan , Shen Yuan
Published: February 2024

Under China’s “3060” target of carbon peak and carbon neutrality, heavy
commercial vehicles are a key breakthrough point to promote the automobile
industry to achieve carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals. Green methanol,
as a clean alternative fuel, are an effective technical route for heavy
commercial vehicles to achieve energy conservation and emission reduction. Based
on a 13L methanol engine, this study fully considers the methanol combustion
characteristics, the ω shape combustion system of the base engine is redesigned
as a pent-roof combustion chamber. The intake port is changed from a swirl port
to a high-tumble port, and the piston crown is also adjusted adaptively. At the
same time, the cam profile, cooling water jacket, intake and exhaust system are
redesigned, and the turbocharger is re-matched according to the physical
properties of methanol. CAE tools and means are used to optimize and determine
the design proposal. Finally, after bench test verification, the thermal
efficiency of the new engine has significantly improved, reaching 45.7%.