bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supporting Preservice Teachers to Explore School Censorship and Teacher Advocacy
Authors: Pule Heather , Kerbs Macie
Published: December 2023

This study combined experiential, authentic literacy instruction with scenarios of censorship preservice teachers (PTs) will encounter in their future classrooms. By presenting these questions and scenarios through authentic literacy practices, PTs were able to think critically and discuss the issues of challenges to culturally responsive texts, and the possibilities of teacher advocacy. The class context and design are presented in this chapter along with the results of this mixed-methods study to determine how successful the classroom environment and literacy instruction was for preservice teachers to discuss the issues and challenges to culturally responsive texts and to explore how these preservice teachers viewed their role as advocates following that discussion. Implications and future research directions for teacher education are also discussed.
Advocating for the Right to Read
Authors: Whitaker Westry A. , Sachdeva Danielle E.
Published: December 2023

As censorship attempts become more commonplace, knowing where to go for support is imperative when facing or anticipating a book challenge. This chapter's purpose is to offer educators a theoretical rationale for supporting students' right to read and describe contemporary efforts to counter censorship in public schools and libraries. The chapter begins with a history of book banning in the United States and shifts to the ways that radical change theory and literacy research can be used in defense of intellectual freedom. Then, the chapter concludes by highlighting the ways that professional organizations, institutions like librarians, and advocacy groups are working to protect the right to read.
Environmental and Ecological Challenges in Central Asia
Authors: Saini Ayushi , Jayaprakash Rajoli Siddharth
Published: December 2023

Oil was discovered in Uzbekistan in 1885, in Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan in the 1900s, and since then the geopolitical interests of these hydrocarbon-rich states have always remained predominant. During the Soviet era, they were energy peripheries of the Union. Post dissolution, these nations reaped the rents generated from hydrocarbons which translated to economic development in the region. However, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are hydrocarbon energy poor and do not dominate the geopolitics of Central Asia. However, it is critical to note that the ecology of Central Asia was massively impacted by Soviet projects in the regions, for instance the nuclear waste in Kazakhstan or the drying up of the Aral Sea and the Belt and Road Initiative projects since 2013. Nations have announced their net-zero targets and doled out renewable energy projects. This chapter will compare the renewable energy policies of Central Asian countries.
Parameters of Poverty Alleviation Through Efficient Modern Energy Utilization in Nigeria
Authors: Abubakar Yusuf Wara
Published: December 2023

Efficient energy utilization should contribute to poverty alleviation in developing countries. A society that successfully shifted from non-modern sources of energy consumption to modern ones is said to witness more significant development. In developing countries such as Nigeria, inefficient modern energy use is connected with the high poverty level among the populace. Targeting assistance to improve modern energy utilization in society that directly affects people experiencing poverty might enhance a healthy society, improve the physical environment, and increase production in society. This research tends to establish the nexus between three parameters: modern energy efficiency health improvement wealth, modern energy efficiency environmental protection wealth, and the modern energy efficiency increased production wealth, relationships. The research will test the hypothesis that the higher the modern energy utilization, the lower the poverty in society. It will also respond to the question of how efficient modern energy utilization can alleviate poverty in society.
Nudging Motivation to Learn English Through a ChatGPT Smartphone-Based Hybrid Model
Authors: Muthmainnah Muthmainnah , Apriani Eka , Seraj Prodhan Mahbub Ibna , Obaid Ahmed J. , Al Yakin Ahmad M.
Published: December 2023

The artificial intelligence revolution as a medium and learning technology is increasingly popular in EFL. The trend of using ChatGPT is increasing. ChatGPT is a media and technology that helps in accelerating learning to help write, becomes teaching materials, learning resources with a conversation system. The purpose of this research is to find out the motivation to learn by developing the ChatGPT function as a teaching material in EFL classes among undergraduate students at universities. As an AI-based teaching material, ChatGPT was chosen with consideration of the ease of accessing fast information.
ChatGPT in Content Creation
Authors: Htet Arkar , Liana Sui Reng , Aung Theingi , Bhaumik Amiya
Published: December 2023

This book chapter delves into the transformative role of ChatGPT in content creation, exploring its underlying techniques, diverse applications, and associated ethical implications. The investigation spans several industries including journalism, marketing, and entertainment, demonstrating the model's adaptability and power. This comprehensive analysis not only spotlights the challenges inherent in implementing ChatGPT, but also illuminates the unique opportunities it presents. By offering a thorough examination of the current state of ChatGPT in content creation and potential future developments, this chapter contributes to the ongoing discourse surrounding AI's impact on content creation.
Enhancing User Privacy in Natural Language Processing (NLP) Systems
Authors: Behera Chandan Kumar , Lakshmi D. , Kondurkar Isha
Published: December 2023

NLP has witnessed a remarkable improvement in applications, from voice assistants to sentiment analysis and language translations. However, in this process, a huge amount of personal data flows through the NLP system. Over time, a variety of techniques and frameworks have been developed to ensure that NLP systems do not ignore user privacy. This chapter highlights the significance of privacy-enhancing technologies (differential privacy, secure multi-party computation, homomorphic encryption, federated learning, secure data aggregation, tokenization and anonymization) in protecting user privacy within NLP systems. Differential privacy introduces noise to query responses or statistical results to protect individual user privacy. Homomorphic encryption allows computations on encrypted data to maintain privacy. Federated learning facilitates collaborative model training without sharing data. Tokenization and anonymization preserve anonymity by replacing personal information with non-identifiable data. This chapter explores these methodologies and techniques for user privacy in NLP systems.
Social Commerce Recommendation Systems
Authors: Taliwal Aanchal , Pathania Mimansa , Chugh Mitali
Published: December 2023

Recommender systems are software tools that make recommendations based on user needs and are increasingly popular in both commercial and research settings, with various approaches being suggested for providing recommendations. To choose the appropriate algorithm, system designers must focus on specific properties of the application, such as accuracy, robustness, and scalability. Comparative studies are used to compare algorithms, and experimental settings are described. The chapter discusses the importance of understanding user acceptance of recommendations provided by recommender systems and the influence of source characteristics in human-human, human-computer, and human-recommender system interactions. This chapter contributes to the study of social commerce by assessing the effects of the social web on different stages of purchase decision making and presents a model for analyzing social commerce.
An Investigation of the Relationship Between Employee Perception of Corporate Citizenship Behaviour and Organisational Sustainability
Authors: Yadav Anshu
Published: December 2023

Corporate greening practices such as measures to reduce pollution emission, management of waste, use of green technologies, sustainable reporting, consuming removable energy sources, implementation of ISO environment management certification, auditing, etc. are required for sustainability. A lot of studies of stakeholder perceptions of corporate responses towards societal concerns are mostly from the point of view of marketing, existing or prospective customers, and industry at a large, but the employee's aspects is most neglected. This chapter investigates the employee's perception of corporate citizenship (CC) and organisational sustainability and also the interrelationship of these variables.
Corporate Social Responsibility, Irresponsibility, and Citizenship
Authors: Windsor Duane
Published: December 2023

This article explains the three related conceptions of corporate social responsibility (CSR), corporate social irresponsibility (CSiR), and corporate citizenship. The three conceptions involve different approaches for answering the overarching question of the appropriate relationship between “business and society”. The article lays out the basics of the three conceptions; and contrasts economic, ethical, and strategic perspectives on these three conceptions. The article connects the three conceptions to corporate social performance (CSP), corporate governance, and stakeholder theory. The author provides the reader with a guide to the extant literature in a way that will facilitate further exploration into key issues. The author proposes some recommendations and solutions for addressing key problems in the field; and suggests future research directions. The article emphasizes key contributions to the development of the field. Work of important authors such as A. B. Carroll, Milton Friedman, Michael E. Porter, and Donna J. Wood among others receives attention.
Ethical Values and Responsibilities of Directors in the Digital Era
Authors: Windsor Duane
Published: December 2023

This chapter addresses the ethical values and responsibilities of corporate directors in the unfolding digital era. Explanation for directors of private or public companies in the digital era involves three principal dimensions. The first concerns the ethical values and responsibilities of any director defined independently of the company or industry or era. The second concerns the additional ethical responsibilities of a director in the digital era, which imposes further conditions on directors. These conditions are heightened for directors of high technology, digital era-oriented businesses. The third dimension concerns whether ethical values and responsibilities of directors vary across countries and legal systems. This dimension separates into legal standards for directors and cultural variations in attitudes and behaviors of directors and managers. The chapter offers real company illustrations for these three dimensions. The chapter recommends four solutions: better and better prepared directors, sounder regulation, and a more unified theory of ethics and responsibility.
Modelling the Mediating Effects of Knowledge Sharing Behavior in the Education Sector
Authors: Ngugi James K. , Goosen Leila
Published: December 2023

Research had previously identified individual and contextual antecedents, which promote innovative behaviors through implementation in organizational contexts. The purpose of this chapter is to introduce drivers of individual innovative behavior (IIB) by modelling the mediating effect of knowledge sharing behavior through implementation in non-organizational contexts, such as for technology students. The study provided recommendations on how to leverage the individual and contextual antecedents of course design characteristics and self-regulated learning to prompt IIB.
Responsible Practices by Tour Guides Promoting Sustainable Tourism
Authors: Paatlan Sandeep , Ranga Jayati
Published: December 2023

In the context of sustainable tourism, the part that tour guides play in influencing visitors' experiences and views has drawn a lot of attention. This study explores the crucial function of tour operators as advocates for ethical behavior in the field of sustainable tourism. The research examines how tour guides operate as change agents, encouraging sustainable practices among tourists, in light of growing concerns regarding the environmental, sociocultural, and economic implications of tourism. This chapter investigates the many duties of tour guides in sharing knowledge about sustainable tourism practices. It does so by drawing on a thorough review of academic literature and case studies. It emphasizes the significance of tour guides' capacity to persuade various tourist groups to adhere to responsible tourism's core values. Tour guides can encourage tourists to adopt more responsible behaviour by raising understanding about the local ecosystems, cultures, and social norms through engaging storytelling.
Dimensional Role of the Latest Trends in Sustainability at Religious Places in Rural Rajasthan
Authors: Bhartwal Umang , Monika  , Tiwari Ravi Kumar , Sharma Naveen , Mathur Deep , Saxena Sandeep
Published: December 2023

Religious tourism is the blissful and mindful action of a human being. Much of the evidence is present by way of the printed manuscript in the written form of articles in the journal, and news newspapers along with physical evidence from Temples, Mosques, Gurudawaras, and many other places in the world. In earlier ages, some of these temples and mosques were in isolated places or away from society which helped to make them in “DHYAN” (spending time in concentration for GOD). Later some of these places became urban and rural in regions of the world. Rajasthan is the province of India which is known for its colorful culture, rich tradition, royalness, and religious places all over the world. Religious places present in regions of Rajasthan are famous names such as Dargah Sharif Ajmer, Khatu Shyam Ji Ringus, Salasar Balazi Sikar, Karni Mata Mandir, Bikaner, Mahandipur Balazi Karauli, and so on.
Empowering Employees' Enablement Intelligently With Data and Realizing Business Excellence
Authors: Hajra H. , Jayalakshmi G.
Published: December 2023

Data excellence denotes the strategic manipulation of data to boost business performance and secure a competitive advantage. It empowers companies to extract critical insights about their operations, customer behavior, and market trends. This intelligence fosters data-driven decision-making, and with effective employee enablement, it leads to superior outcomes. Employee engagement, distinct from job performance, focuses on workers' emotional alignment with the company's values and interpersonal conduct. Engaged employees actively collaborate to elevate their job performance and are attuned to the company culture. HR experts link engagement to employees' perceptions of their job experience and treatment within the organization, emphasizing the pivotal role of emotions in driving a company's success and profitability. Employees are naturally inclined to commit to their organizations, fulfilling a profound desire to forge meaningful connections and contribute significantly to a valued cause.
Applications of Artificial Intelligence Tools in Higher Education
Authors: Venkateswaran P. S. , Ayasrah Firas Tayseer Mohammad , Nomula Varun Kumar , Paramasivan P. , Anand P. , Bogeshwaran K.
Published: December 2023

The rapid integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) in higher education has brought about transformative changes to traditional teaching and learning practices. This chapter examines the multifaceted impacts of ICT in the higher education sector. Over the past two decades, ICT has revolutionized the way educational institutions operate, impacting teaching methodologies, student engagement, and administrative processes. In the realm of pedagogy, ICT has facilitated the shift towards student-centered learning, empowering learners with access to diverse digital resources and interactive learning platforms. Moreover, administrative tasks within higher education have been streamlined through the adoption of ICT, resulting in enhanced efficiency in enrollment, record-keeping, and communication between stakeholders. This optimization allows educators to focus more on instructional design and student support, fostering a conducive learning environment.
Synergizing Efficiency and Customer Delight on Empowering Business With Enterprise Applications
Authors: Lavanya D. , Rangineni Sandeep , Reddi Latha Thamma , Regin R. , Rajest S. Suman , Paramasivan P.
Published: December 2023

Enterprise applications have never been more important in an era where organizations thrive on efficiency and consumer happiness. This chapter is an enthralling voyage into the world of cutting-edge technology in which the authors investigate the revolutionary power of enterprise applications and their significant impact on modern enterprises. They delve into the dense web of corporate applications that serve as the backbone of enterprises, fueling growth and fostering innovation. These applications are intended to optimize procedures, streamline operations, and improve cross-departmental communication, allowing firms to function at maximum efficiency while maintaining a laser-like focus on customer satisfaction. They show how, in an ever-changing technological context, enterprise applications have developed from traditional software tools to agile, intelligent, and integrated solutions. The alternatives are endless, from enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to customer relationship management (CRM) platforms.
A Study on Consumer Preference and Satisfaction Towards Various Brands of Hair Shampoo in Ahmedabad City
Authors: Rawal Nupur , Singh Gurmeet Sikh
Published: December 2023

Hair shampoo plays a wide role in cosmetic products. Healthy roots and tips, daily shine, stronger hairs are the prime factors among the male and female genders driving the hair care product market globally. In this research, consumer preference and satisfaction towards different brands of hair shampoo in Ahmedabad city is studied. Hence, in this research, 26 brands have been taken both national and international brands to identify consumers' brand preference and factors that consumers consider. A total of 200 respondents' data is collected with the aid of a standardised questionnaire, and exploratory factor analysis and cluster analysis are used to analyse it. The result of the study shows that Dove and L'Oreal Paris are the most preferred brands. Brand image and usage experience, ethical and ecofriendly product, brand preference, product quality, and problem solving ability are the five factors which influence the consumer preference towards hair shampoo through factor analysis. Brand attributes and brand perception are the identified cluster groups through regression factor scores.
Data-Driven Talent Management Practices for Eco-Innovation in State-Owned Enterprises
Authors: Atiku Sulaiman Olusegun , Menjengua Doreen K. , Jeremiah Andrew , Villet Hylton James
Published: December 2023

This study explores the influence of data-driven talent management practices on eco-innovation in state-owned enterprises. A literature review was conducted to examine the role of people data, HR metrics, and people analytics in enhancing talent management practices and eco-innovation in state-owned enterprises. Findings revealed that people data is essential for making talent decisions and developing effective talent retention strategies. Additionally, two key drivers of eco-innovations were identified and grouped into external and internal drivers. External drivers include environmental regulations, competition pressures, and customers' demands for eco-friendly products and services. Internal drivers are organizational capabilities, technological capabilities, and corporate social responsibility. Therefore, data-driven talent development interventions are necessary for advancing organizational and technological capabilities to boost eco-innovation performance in state-owned enterprises.
Impact of Intangible Capital, Organisational Culture, and Innovative Capabilities on the Organisational Performance of the Indian IT Industry
Authors: Kannan Asuri Simhakutty , Aranganathan P. , Elamurugan B. , Sheela Christina , Anandavel V. , Ravichandran K.
Published: December 2023

There is well-researched evidence for the linkages among intellectual capital, innovation capability, and organisational performance. However, no concrete evidence of such a relationship can be identified in knowledge-based industries such as the information technology (IT) sector. This study examined how organisational performance, organizational culture, and intellectual capital (human capital and organizational capital) are interconnected in the Indian IT sector and explored further how innovation capability can play a mediating role. In Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai, 486 middle-level employees of selected IT companies were randomly selected for data collection. The authors used Smart PLS 3. A positive substantial impact is demonstrated by human capital, organizational capital, and culture on innovation capability, and an equally favorable substantial impact is demonstrated by innovation capability, human capital, and organizational capital on organizational performance.
MHD Casson Flow over a Non-Linear Convective Inclined Plate with Chemical Reaction and Arrhenius Activation Energy
Authors: Akindele Akintayo Oladimeji , Obalalu Adebowale Martins , Ogunsola Amos Wale , Ajala Olusegun Adebayo , Akeem Oladapo Olayinka
Published: December 2023

This study examines the Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) Casson flow passing over a non-linear convective inclined plate with incorporating a chemical reaction and Arrhenius activation energy. However, the magneto-hydrodynamic flow of two-dimensional radiative Casson fluid (CF) across a non-linear convective inclined plate in the existence of heat generation is addressed theoretically and numerically. The Arrhenius activation energy and chemical reaction are two additional impacts that have been added to the innovative nature of the model. By applying the appropriate transformations, PDEs (partial differential equations) were converted into coupled ODEs (ordinary differential equations) in terms of similarity variables combined with the boundary conditions. The finite difference method (FDM) and MAPLE 18.0 software were used to solve the resultant equations numerically. According to the findings, the thermal Grashof number and the mass Grashof number of the nano-fluid flow model were able to improve the strength of the drag coefficient, the rate of heat transfer at the surface of the plate, and the Sherwood number. Additionally, there was a reduction in the velocity gradient as the magnetic field strength increased. The concentration decreases when a chemical reaction is present, but it improves as the activation energy rises. These findings will help engineers create devices with strong heat and mass transfer rates. The results were compared to previously published research to assess their validity and discovered a large degree of consistency.
Cooperative Ocean Survey Method by a UAV and an AUV: State Estimation of the AUV Based on the UAV
Authors: Matsuda Takumi , Yokota Yusuke
Published: December 2023

Abstract This paper proposes a new concept of the ocean exploration method using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) in cooperation. Conventional ocean survey by AUVs is supported by a ship and humans for deployment, recovery, and positioning
during its survey. Therefore, it has been difficult to survey shallow areas that are inaccessible by ships or far from the land without a ship. In this study, however, this problem is solved by using the UAV to support the entire process from the beginning to the end of the survey. The UAV
also acts as a positioning reference station for the AUV by deploying an acoustic positioning system. This allows the AUV to perform ocean exploration while estimating its position relative to the UAV. Sea experiments were conducted using a small AUV and UAVs, demonstrating that although the
UAVs were manually controlled, the UAV and AUV can perform the entire exploration process from the beginning to the end, and especially that the AUV can estimate its position based on the UAV.
Enhanced Coconut Somatic Embryogenesis of Unfertilized Ovary Derived Callus through Improved Media Composition
Authors: Jayarathna S. P. N. C. , Balasooriya J. O. S. , Vidhanaarachchi V. R. M. , Perera D.
Published: December 2023

Coconut is an economically demanding plantation crop in Sri Lanka, having an out-breeding nature with no vegetative propagation methods. Propagation by seeds generates heterogenous population and it is not sufficient to fulfill the increasing demand for coconut plantlets. Therefore, in vitro propagation is the ultimate approach of producing clones of coconut from the mother palms of interest. Coconut in vitro propagation is achieved through somatic embryogenesis and improvements of this process will easily cater the demand for plantlets. Hence, the main objective of the study was to enhance somatic embryogenic pathway of coconut using two different auxins (2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid [2,4-D] and 3,6-Dichloro-2-methoxybenzoic acid [Dicamba]) at the concentration of 300 μM. These auxins were tested alone and in combination with calcium ionophore (A23187) and 22(S),23(S)-homobrassinolide. Translucent structures or the ear-like structures obtained from culturing of unfertilized ovaries were used for the treatments. After six weeks of the culture establishment number of embryogenic structures per one translucent structure were counted. Each treatment produced embryogenic structures but a significantly greater number of embryogenic structures were developed with 2,4-D containing media than dicamba. The results revealed the potential of using 300 μM 2,4-D with calcium ionophore (A23187) and 22(S), 23(S)-homobrassinolide to improve the somatic embryogenic pathway of unfertilized ovary derived callus of coconut.
Analyses of walkability in city centers:  a framework to assess Walkabiity based on street conditions,  proximity of services & urban morphological conditions
Authors: Nissanka S. M. , Jayasinghe A. B.
Published: December 2023

Many studies utilized the ‘Walkability Index’ to measure the level of the walkability of cities predominately based on street conditions and road infrastructure availability while giving limited attention to factors such as urban morphological conditions and proximity to activities and services. This study argues that the actual walkability should be calculated by using not only considering the effects of walking conditions on streets but also, considering the urban morphological conditions and the proximity of services. The main objective of the study is to develop a framework to measure walkability in the city centers’ by accessing the multidimensional aspects including walking conditions on streets, density, functional mix, accessibility, and proximity to services. As the main outcomes, the study was able to i. develop a quantitative framework to measure walkability in the city centers’ by considering and combining the multidimensional aspects ii. quantify the level of the walkability of ten small and medium-sized towns in Sri Lanka and rank them. Accordingly, the study concludes that the findings could be beneficial for urban planners as they can effectively quantify the level of walkability in town centers by using the developed framework when developing Site Plans/ Development Guide Plans/ Local Plans. Further planners can utilize this framework to identify the parameters that they need to enhance to improve the walkability of towns.
Malignant Portal Vein Thrombosis with No Obvious Liver Parenchymal Mass on Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography
Authors: Chandra Piyush , Sethi Ashish , Chinnappan Sheela
Published: December 2023

The presence of portal vein thrombosis (PVTT) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with adverse prognosis with dismal survival. Malignant portal vein thrombosis usually develops as a contiguous extension of the liver tumour into portal vein or its branches. Here we present an interesting FDG PET-CT image of a patient with chronic hepatitis B infection having isolated malignant portal vein thrombosis without any obvious liver mass.
Ilizarov pelvic support osteotomy in a case of post-infective pathological fracture-dislocation of hip
Authors: Pal Jitendra Nath , Bera Amiya Kumar , Roy Amarendra Nath
Published: December 2023

Various pelvic support osteotomies provide improved hip stability. Unequal limb length remains a major disability. Ilizarov hip reconstruction procedure could additionally correct excessive distal limb valgus, inequality of limb length, and flexion contracture of the hip. This procedure is applied to the present case to note the short-term result. A 16-year-old girl presented 9 years after the initial infection with the sequel of septic arthritis of the right hip. She had frequent pain over her groyne and a significant Trendelenburg gait. Scanogram showed 5 cm proximal femoral migration, but 4 cm shortening at knee level. A 10° flexion contracture with a significant reduction of all movement, except adduction, is noted. After preoperative planning and confirming under C-arm image proximally femur is osteotomized at the level of ischium to achieve 50° abduction (40° maximum abduction + 10° over correction) and fixed using 6 mm Schanz pins. The distal ring is connected to the middle ring by a motor on the lateral and hinges on the medial aspect. Distraction starts on the 3rd day to obtain 10° varus and 2 cm lengthening, which aligns knees at the same level and equidistance from the midline. Osteotomies are united in 4 months and the frame is removed after 5 months. The length is equalised, correction of Trendelenburg gait, exaggerated lumbar lordosis and pain-free groyne. Available pain-free movements are as that of the preoperative stage except for adduction. Harris hip score improved from 49.2 to 94. Ilizarov hip reconstruction procedure improves Trendelenburg gait, equalises limb length discrepancy, alleviates groyne pain, and corrects pelvic tilt.
Hindfoot fusion with various auxiliary techniques in Charcot’s management
Authors: Ramakanth Rajagopalakrishnan , Sundararajan Silvampatti Ramasamy , D’souza Terence , Rajasekaran Shanmuganathan
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Management of Charcot’s arthropathy of the hindfoot (Sanders/Frykberg Type IV) is a challenging situation to address. Complex deformities linked with ankle/hindfoot Charcot’s disease are frequently multiplanar. Due to the collapse of the distal tibia and the two bones of the hindfoot, the talus, and calcaneus, the limb frequently shortens when the skeletal architecture is damaged. A varus ankle or heel results in increased lateral column plantar pressure of the foot due to changed foot pressure loading, predisposing the patient to develop lateral foot ulceration. Collapse and secondary avascular necrosis of the talus; additional stress on the injured bone exacerbates these deformities and contributes to ulcers in the foot, instability during walking, and limb-length discrepancy.

Management:

The primary indication for surgical ankle stabilization is a foot that cannot be braced and is unstable during walking. Other surgical indications include imminent ulceration, nonhealing ulcers, recurring ulcers, osteomyelitis, and/or severe pain. Achieving ankle and/or hindfoot arthrodesis and correcting these complex multiplanar deformities in this location stabilizes the hindfoot. Various auxiliary techniques that can be combined with Tibio-talo-calcaneal (TTC) are tricortical iliac crest graft and femoral head allograft to build hindfoot, plate augmentation, distally mobilized fibula as biological augmentation and multiple 6.5-mm screws. The choice between internal or exterior fixation is mostly determined by the presence or absence of an active infection and the quality of the bone.

Conclusion:

Surgical stabilization with TTC nail for Charcot’s arthropathy of the ankle and hindfoot is associated with good clinical outcomes. Despite the high likelihood of complications, limb salvage rates are between 80% and 90%. A meticulous selection of cases, a diligent multimodal strategy, and an experienced team are required to attain this result. Assessment of vascular status, glycemic control, optimum foot care, use of protective footwear during the acute inflammatory phase to prevent inadvertent trivial foot injuries, correction of calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, and cessation of tobacco and alcohol use are preoperative factors that can improve outcomes. Various auxiliary techniques can be combined with TTC nailing for optimum results.
Total contact casting in diabetic foot
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Abhijit
Published: December 2023

Total contact casting, commonly referred to as contact casting, is a therapeutic method for treating diabetic foot ulcers. To relieve pressure from the damaged area, lessen shear pressures and speed the healing of diabetic foot ulcers, a specific cast that covers the foot and lower leg is applied. This study is an overview of ‘Contact cast in diabetic foot’ to highlight its clinical use, indications, advantages and disadvantages. Apart from that, the steps of contact casting are also discussed.
The Effect of Cord Blood Lead Level on Neonatal Growth Parameters at a Tertiary Care Center in Southern India
Authors: Abinaya S. S. , Mannu Alexander , Vasudevan Jaishree
Published: December 2023

Context:

Environmentally prevalent lead is a potentially hazardous metal. Depending on its absorption and desorption, lead causes detrimental effects. The growth of fetus and newborn is seriously impacted in utero due to lead exposure in mothers.

Aims:

(1) To determine the lead levels in cord blood and (2) to determine the relationship of blood lead levels with anthropometry in newborns.

Settings and Design:

Cross-sectional study, department of pediatrics for 6-month period (May 2022 to October 2022).

Subjects and Methods:

The study included term and preterm babies above 28 weeks of gestation, born to mothers without risk factors. Cord blood samples from 83 newborns were analyzed for lead levels by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry.

Statistical Analysis:

Taking power as 80% and alpha error as 5%, sample size (n = 83) was obtained using regression methods.

Results:

The average lead concentration in the cord blood was detected to be 0.4 μg/dL (0.05–1.90 μg/dL). Using Pearson’s correlation coefficient, decrease in birth weight with increasing lead levels was statistically significant (P = 0.0005, r = −0.464). The correlation between gestational age, length, head circumference, chest circumference of newborn, and cord blood lead level (r = −0.364, P = 0.001); (r = −0.343, P = 0.001); (r = −0.435, P = 0.0005); and (r = 0.446, P = 0.0005), respectively, was highly significant. A moderately significant correlation was found between abdominal circumference and cord blood lead level (r = −0.343, P = 0.001).

Conclusions:

Reduction in neonatal anthropometric measurements, especially the birth weight, length, chest circumference, and head circumference, was noted with increasing lead levels in umbilical cord blood.
Assessment of serum and salivary visfatin levels in newly diagnosed patients of type-II DM
Authors: Jerusha Faith R. , Raghunath Vandana
Published: December 2023

Background:

Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disorder. It is thought to be an autoinflammatory disease, as inflammatory mediators are associated with the progression of the disease. Visfatin, an adipokine, is linked to insulin resistance.

Aims:

We aimed to study serum and salivary visfatin levels, at the time of diagnosis of T2DM, in middle-aged individuals, in the context of other diagnostic parameters like fasting blood sugar (FBS), postprandial blood sugar (PPBS), and glycated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).

Materials and Methods:

Thirty newly diagnosed T2DM (Group-I, T2DM) patients and 30 healthy nondiabetic individuals (Group-II, health controls [HC]) matched for age and sex were studied. In both the groups, we assessed serum and salivary visfatin levels, and serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels. We also compared serum and salivary visfatin levels and serum hs-CRP levels between Group-I and Group-II individuals.

Statistical Analysis:

The correlation between the groups was tested using Pearson’s correlation. A P- value < 0.001 was considered to be statistically significant. The data was tabulated using software MS Excel and analysed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 22.0.

Results:

A positive correlation with a value of 0.8836 and a P value of 0.001 was noted between serum and salivary visfatin of Group-I.

Conclusion:

This is the first study in the Indian scenario to study the serum and salivary visfatin in newly diagnosed T2DM individuals. Serum visfatin and hs-CRP levels increased in T2DM, thus defining the link between visfatin, inflammation and T2DM, but we failed to notice a positive correlation.
Significance of tumour budding and invasive characteristics in grading of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Selvaraj Freeda M. , Joseph Anna P. , Pillai Varun Raghavan , Ramani Pratibha , Pazhani Jayanthi , Mony Vinod
Published: December 2023

Background:

Tumour budding has been recognized as a morphologic marker of tumour invasion. Invasive characteristics such as depth of invasion, mode of invasion and worst pattern of invasion are potentially powerful parameters predicting the regional metastasis.

Aim:

This study was done to understand the significance of tumour budding and various characteristics of invasion and their impact on grading of oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Materials and Methods:

An immunohistochemical study was performed on tissue sections obtained from 34 paraffin-embedded blocks of clinically and histologically diagnosed cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma. The sections were stained with pan cytokeratin and observed under high power magnification.

Results:

Tumour budding and the invasive patterns were found to be significant in OSCC. A proposed grading system based on tumour budding and cell nest was found to have a significant correlation with the WHO grading system.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated the importance of using tumour buds as an additional parameter in the grading system and also assessed the importance of invasive patterns, cellular atypia and stromal contents in OSCC.
Evaluation of salivary MMP-9 in oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral leukoplakia using ELISA
Authors: Pazhani Jayanthi , Chanthu Krishnasree , Jayaraman Selvaraj , Varun B. R.
Published: December 2023

Background:

Cancer of the lip and the oral cavity is collectively the sixth most common malignancy worldwide, out of which 90% are oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs). Oral cancer survival rates depend mainly upon the stage in which it is diagnosed. Successful early detection would eventually increase the survival rate. OSCCs may be preceded by potentially malignant disorders (PMDs) that are characterised by visible clinical changes in the oral mucosa. Correct diagnosis and timely treatment of PMDs may help prevent malignant transformation in oral lesions. Oral leukoplakia (OL) is the best known potentially malignant disorder of the oral mucosa with a malignant transformation rate of about 3% to 33%. Tumour markers in saliva have emerged as a new diagnostic tool in the early detection of oral cancer. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) is a gelatinase which plays an important role in tumourogenisis. The present study was done to evaluate the salivary levels of MMP-9 in OSCC and oral leukoplakia patients using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted among 102 subjects, which included 34 OSCC patients (group I), 34 OL patients (group II), and 34 healthy subjects (group III). Unstimulated saliva was collected by the passive drooling method from all the study subjects during the study period, centrifuged, and stored at -80°C. The salivary MMP-9 was estimated in mg/ml using the sandwich ELISA technique. The data were analysed using a statistical software package, EZR. One-way analysis of variance was used for the comparison of salivary MMP-9 levels in OSCC, OL, and normal oral mucosa. Scheffe’s multiple comparison was carried out to compare salivary MMP-9 levels among the different histological grades of OSCC and oral epithelial dysplasia. For all statistical interpretations, P ≤ 0.0 was considered the threshold for statistical significance.

Results and Conclusion:

The mean salivary MMP-9 level in OSCC, OL, and normal oral mucosa was 50.9 ± 5.7 ng/ml, 31.6 ± 6 ng/ml, and 16.2 ± 4.8 ng/ml, respectively. Patients with OSCC had significantly higher levels of salivary MMP-9 when compared to OL and normal mucosa. Higher levels of salivary MMP-9 were observed in poorly differentiated OSCC when compared to well and moderately differentiated OSCCs. The salivary MMP-9 was higher in severe oral epithelial dysplasia when compared to mild and moderate oral epithelial dysplasias. As malignant transformation rates are higher in patients with severe oral epithelial dysplasia when compared to mild and moderate oral epithelial dysplasia, salivary MMP-9 could be considered as a surrogate marker of malignant transformation.
Diagnostic challenges of superficial mucoceles: An update
Authors: Pandarathodiyil Anitha K. , Sivapathasundharam B.
Published: December 2023

A superficial mucocele is a unique variant of a mucocele of the oral cavity that was described by Eveson for the first time in 1988. It occurs due to subepithelial extravasation of sialomucin at the epithelial–connective tissue interface and is related to damage of the minor salivary gland ducts. Clinically, they appear as small, asymptomatic, clear, tense vesicles with a predilection for the soft palate, retromolar pads, and posterior buccal mucosa. They are reported to occur more frequently in women than in men. Before Eveson endeavoured to describe these rather peculiar lesions, they were often misdiagnosed as vesiculobullous lesions such as bullous lichen planus, mucous membrane pemphigoid, and the like. It is incumbent on the present-day pathologist to be cognizant of the presence of these entities as it could present a formidable diagnostic challenge otherwise. This review gives an updated account on the etiology, prevalence, clinical features, differential diagnosis, and management of superficial mucoceles.
Decomposition of socioeconomic inequalities in glaucoma knowledge in Taiwan
Authors: Hou Chiun-Ho , Pu Christy
Published: December 2023

OBJECTIVES:Glaucoma knowledge is strongly associated with medication adherence and preventive behavior. Studies have frequently reported socioeconomic inequalities in glaucoma knowledge. This study aimed to decompose such inequalities. Decomposition analysis enables the design of policies directly targeting the underlying causes of inequality.METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional survey from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019, at the departments of ophthalmology of 2 medical centers belonging to a hospital chain in northern Taiwan. Socioeconomic inequalities in glaucoma knowledge were ranked based on 3 aspects of socioeconomic status (SES): (1) education, (2) income, and (3) self-perceived financial status. The concentration index was calculated and decomposed using decomposition analysis. Elasticity and marginal effects were estimated for each decomposed factor.RESULTS: In total, 1,203 patients completed the survey. Both measures of glaucoma knowledge and overall glaucoma knowledge score significantly contributed to the progressivity of knowledge inequalities (pro-high-SES inequalities). The concentration index for overall knowledge score with respect to education was 0.166 (p<0.001). Both objective and subjective measures of SES were associated with pro-high-SES inequalities. Our decomposition analysis revealed that demographic factors and attitudinal factors such as the level of concern regarding developing glaucoma contributed significantly to SES-based inequalities in glaucoma knowledge.CONCLUSIONS: Our decomposition analysis provided empirical evidence regarding the underlying causes of SES-based inequalities in glaucoma knowledge. Efforts to improve glaucoma knowledge should consider specific factors that drive SES-based inequalities, such as age, sex, and concern about vision health, to ultimately achieve low SES-based inequalities.
Un mundo que canta: crítica, protesta y resonancia
Authors: Fazio-Vargas Daniela
Published: December 2023

Las protestas constituyen un momento en el que el mundo se detiene; la aceleración se suspende y se posibilita la resonancia. En ellas la realidad pierde su carácter necesario, lo que permite la enunciación de críticas. Ambos conceptos, crítica y resonancia, aunque deriven de diferentes tradiciones teóricas, ponen al arte al centro; por ello, permiten explorar la relación entre arte, protesta y transformación. Hartmut Rosa concibe al arte como una importante esfera de resonancia en la modernidad y Luc Boltanski destaca la crítica artista como una de las principales críticas al capitalismo. Mientras la crítica permite comprender cómo los actores pueden poner en tela de juicio la necesidad de la realidad, la resonancia permite explorar la constitución de una relación en la que el sujeto y el mundo son mutuamente transformados.
Influence of Passive Pre-Chamber Nozzle Diameter on Jet Ignition in a
Constant-Volume Optical Engine under Varying Load and Dilution
Conditions
Authors: Lee Dong Eun , Yu Tianxiao , Alam Afaque , Iyer Claudia , Wooldridge Steven , Qiao Li , Yi Jianwen J.
Published: December 2023

Despite the growing prominence of electrified vehicles, internal combustion
engines remain essential in future transportation. This study delves into
passive pre-chamber jet ignition, a leading-edge combustion technology, offering
a comprehensive visualization of its operation under varying load and dilution
conditions in light-duty GDI engines. Our primary objectives are to gain
fundamental insights into passive pre-chamber jet ignition and subsequent main
combustion processes and evaluate their response to different load and dilution
conditions. We conducted experimental investigations using a light-duty,
optical, single-cylinder engine equipped with three passive pre-chamber designs
featuring varying nozzle diameters. Optical diagnostic imaging and heat release
analysis provided critical insights. Findings reveal that as load decreases,
fuel availability and flow conditions deteriorate, leading to delayed and
suboptimal jet characteristics impacting main chamber ignition and combustion.
Notably, at high and medium loads without dilution, the 1.2 mm-PC (smallest
nozzle diameter) excels, exhibiting superior jet ignition and main combustion.
This is attributed to earlier jet ejection, improved penetration, and
intensified jets, all enabled by the smaller nozzle diameter. Conversely, under
low load conditions, the 1.6 mm-PC (largest nozzle diameter) performs better due
to enhanced scavenging and reduced pre-chamber residuals, resulting in more
balanced pre-chamber combustion and jet characteristics. Furthermore, nozzle
diameter significantly influences cycle-to-cycle variations, with smaller
diameters enhancing jet ignition but intensifying variability. The impact of
external residuals (dilution) on jet ignition performance varies with nozzle
diameter, with the 1.6 mm-PC displaying less degradation and demonstrating
earlier jet ejection and CA50 timing under higher dilution conditions. In
summary, this research underscores the importance of scavenging and residual
levels in pre-chamber design, influencing dilution tolerance, and extending
possibilities for high-efficiency engines. It contributes essential insights
into the behavior of passive pre-chamber jet ignition systems, facilitating
their optimization for future internal combustion engines.