bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Piloting Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Facilitate Online Discussion in Large Online Classes
Authors: Lantz Jessica Lynn , Liu Juhong Christie , Basnyat Iccha
Published: February 2022

This chapter unveils the teaching and course design experience when facilitating asynchronous online discussion with an AI-driven platform, Packback. Primarily focusing on the experience of four faculty members at a large public higher education institution in the United States, the case study conducts in-depth inquiries into faculty perception of using AI-driven discussion in teaching and learning. Using a qualitative research design, the researchers present the study and results from practical perspectives when integrating Packback in online classes. The findings of this case study also include the challenges and lessons that the faculty and instructional designers learned to help others implement an AI-based discussion tool. Strategies and recommendations for instructional design and redesign with these newer types of AI-driven online discussion are proposed to inform those in education and technology fields.
Reflective Learning With Video-Based Annotations
Authors: Bollinger Chelsey M. , Liu Juhong Christie
Published: February 2022

The use of video-based interactive annotation and analysis with time-attached comments and reflection are on the rise in teaching and learning. Although video technologies are becoming more affordable, video annotation tools require sophisticated integration of database management, metadata mapping and retrievability, user management, data privacy, and storage. These issues have contributed to the limited application of these tools in educational settings. To understand the teaching and learning possibilities of these video annotation tools, the researchers conducted a case study with a purposeful sample of faculty from interdisciplinary backgrounds. The study took an inductive approach through comparison of two video annotation systems, exploratory applications as different user roles, observations, usability tests, and pilots with in-service teachers.
The DACUM Virtual Institute
Authors: Hickey Sean , Correia Ana-Paula , Fergus Katherine Bradley
Published: February 2022

When the domestic and international travel restrictions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic made face-to-face training and professional development activities impossible, organizations needed to shift rapidly to a virtual format. One such organization, the DACUM International Training Center at The Ohio State University's Center on Education and Training for Employment, was forced to reimagine its five-day, in-person DACUM Institute—a workshop with a 35-year history of training human resources and learning and development professionals in the DACUM method of job analysis. This chapter examines the opportunities presented by and the challenges inherent in deconstructing this face-to-face experience and reimagining it as a virtual one, the DACUM Virtual Institute. This online program, a mix of synchronous and asynchronous learning activities, puts into practice learning design methodologies and learner experience design principles to capture the essential components of the in-person workshop experience while also leveraging new opportunities afforded by virtual and online learning.
Applying Chickering and Gamson's Principles to Engage Today's Online Learner
Authors: Griffith Jennifer S. , Statti Aubrey L. C. , Torres Kelly M.
Published: February 2022

Chickering and Gamson introduced seven principles for engaging undergraduate students into the literature in 1987. The principles provided faculty with the foundational best practices they could incorporate into their own courses. Using Chickering and Gamson's best practices, the authors of this chapter conducted a literature review on how these best practices could be used for engaging learners through the support of technology. Institutions of higher education are incorporating online degree programs in their strategies and should understand how to prepare faculty, especially new faculty, for facilitating online courses for nontraditional students using the learning management system (LMS), technology, pedagogical approaches, and best practices.
The Effects of Use of Restaurant Management Systems Perceived by the Personnel According to Their Demographic Characteristics
Authors: Memis Kocaman Emel , Türkmen Büşra Meltem
Published: February 2022

Restaurant management systems (RMSs) developed to increase business efficiency and service quality in operation and management processes in restaurants were discussed in this study. This research reveals the current impact of RMSs in restaurants processes from the perspectives of staff working in restaurants. The purpose of this study was to assess the restaurant staff's perspective on restaurant management systems (RMS) based on their demographic characteristics. Research data were collected by conducting face-to-face and online surveys to a total of 385 staff working in restaurants in different cities of Turkey. ANOVA test and independent-sample t-test were used in the analysis of research data. A significant difference was found between the education level of the restaurant staff and the components of operation management, sales increase, and production/service standard of the RMSs perspective scale (p<0.05). Sector employees with higher general education and/or vocational training have a more positive view of RMSs' contributions to the business.
Smart Management for Digital Transformation in China
Authors: Yu Poshan , Yu Muchen , Sampat Michael
Published: February 2022

Under the situation of an epidemic, the new industry based on digital technology and the rise of new platforms has injected new vitality into many economic subjects and enterprises, also bringing a series of new challenges such as digital asset security, digital financial risk, and platform monopoly. China is no exception. As one of the world's major economic entities, China has begun to emphasize the importance of digital economy for real economy or enterprise transformation; through government support and related policies, enterprises' own transformation planning has brought new opportunities for digital economic development. This chapter will focus on China's digital transformation of intelligence. Through data integration and data collection, the author conducts academic research on the characteristics of transformation, policy regulation, case studies, and existing shortcomings and challenges of smart management in China's digital transformation.
A Survey on Hybrid Case-Based Reasoning and Deep Learning Systems for Medical Data Classification
Authors: Safa Gasmi , Akila Djebbar , Farida Merouani Hayet
Published: February 2022

Several artificial intelligence approaches, particularly case-based reasoning (CBR), which is analogous to the context of human reasoning for problem resolution, have demonstrated their efficiency and reliability in the medical field. In recent years, deep learning represents the latest iteration of an advance in artificial intelligence technologies in medicine to aid in data classification, diagnosis of new diseases, and complex decision-making. Although these two independent approaches have good results in the medical field, the latter is still a complex field. This chapter reviews the available literature on CBR systems, deep learning systems, and CBR deep learning systems in medicine. The methods used and results obtained are discussed, and key findings are highlighted. Further, in the light of this review, some directions for future research are given. This chapter presents the proposed approach, which helps to make the retrieval phase of the CBR cycle more reliable and robust.
Machine Learning and Deep Learning as New Tools for Business Analytics
Authors: Bouguettaya Abdelmalek , Zarzour Hafed , Kechida Ahmed , Taberkit Amine Mohammed
Published: February 2022

Data scientists need to develop accurate and effective tools and techniques to handle a huge amount of data. Therefore, machine learning and deep learning algorithms have come to the life, especially with the impressive advances in both hardware and software fields. Many impressive existing services are helping us in our daily lives, such as Google Assistant, Uber, Alexa, and Siri, which are based on big data, machine learning, and deep learning. Although intelligent algorithms and big data have been adopted in many modern business intelligence and analytics applications, in this chapter, the authors aim to present the basics of machine learning and deep learning concepts and their utilization in the field of business intelligence. As concrete examples, with the high spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tesla and Amazon achieved the biggest revenue ever, where many other companies suffer. These high revenues could be due to the strategic decisions of their leaders, which are based especially on artificial intelligence.
A Comparison of Deep Learning Models in Time Series Forecasting of Web Traffic Data From Kaggle
Authors: Wang Bingnan , Chiu Dickson K. W. , Ho Kevin K. W.
Published: February 2022

In recent years, time series forecasting has attracted more attention from academia and industry. This research used raw data from the “Web Traffic Forecasting” competition on the Kaggle platform to test the prediction accuracy of different time series models, especially the generalization performance of various deep learning models. The experiments used historical traffic data from 145,063 web pages from Wikipedia from 2015-07-01 to 2017-11-13. Traffic data from 2015-07-01 to 2017-09-10 was used to forecast traffic from 2017-09-13 to 2017-11-13, a total of 62 days. The experimental results showed that almost all deep learning models predicted far more effectively than statistical and machine learning models, showing that deep learning models have great potential for time series forecasting problems.
Mentoring Doctoral Students in a Distance Learning Environment
Authors: Burkholder Gary J.
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this chapter is to describe research on mentoring and advising of doctoral students in a distance education context through the lens of for-profit education. Changes in the doctoral education landscape, including broad access mandates, mean that more students, many of whom are older, have family obligations, are first generation, and have established careers, have access to doctoral education. The role of the mentor has and will continue to change to meet the unique demands these students present. Findings from the examination of mentoring doctoral students online suggest that the characteristic of mentorship are well-examined and that more research is needed that disentangles the roles of mentors to provide targeted services needed by doctoral students. The for-profit, distance education sector has the potential to be a leader in knowledge on mentoring doctoral students in a virtual environment.
Innovations and Adjustments in Internship and Field Experience From Non-Traditional For-Profit Education
Authors: Leaver V. Wayne , Pineros Erika , Haefner Moriah
Published: February 2022

This chapter presents an overview of innovations and adjustments made by for-profit non-traditional education in the areas of recruitment, orientation, use of technology, focusing on the development of the whole person, life-long learners, and leaders, with special emphasis on internships in psychology and counseling. Many of the insights of non-traditional for-profit education have been adopted and incorporated into more traditional campus-based programs. Innovation and adaptation continue to drive progress in internships.
Humanitarian Needs and Challenges Related to the Disabled Population
Authors: Kadda Anastasia , Koumpouros Yiannis , Psaltopoulou Theodora , Toulias Thomas
Published: February 2022

People with disabilities raise important and special humanitarian approaches. There is a strong necessity for an epidemiological and sociological study of disabled population with regard to disease distribution and the patients' social profile based on the bio-psycho-social model of health and illness. Adverse economic data, low social cohesion, and consequently, social exclusion are often observed within the specific population. According to the quantitative research conducted, the population's nosological profile has serious effects on patients' everyday lives and is directly related to social parameters. Fundamental social factors and access to health services affect people with a degree of disability of over 67% health in terms of disease prevention and treatment. At the same time, social determinants seem to negatively affect their health and treatment. There is a clear need for an information technology system that will monitor and produce appropriate key performance indicators to help design appropriate policies for the specific population.
Development of an Efficient Electricity Distribution Model and Making the Model Robust Using Blockchain
Authors: Jain Dishi , Sharmila L.
Published: February 2022

There are villages and rural areas in modern India that still do not have electricity connection. And there are those places where there is a connection, but low voltage and frequent cut-offs are still a major problem. Electricity companies face a lot of issues regarding the efficient power supply to all their customers, and the customers have issues regarding their needs of power. Wastage of power during transmission is another big issue. This chapter aims to develop and implement algorithms to improve the above-mentioned situation. To make the pricing model more robust, blockchain is used as it ensures secure transactions. Blockchain can give users more efficiency and authority over their energy sources.
Improving the Quality of the Early Childhood Care and Education Workforce in Turkey
Authors: Özdoğru Asil Ali
Published: February 2022

Children's learning and development is shaped by their early experiences and environments. Early childhood care and education (ECCE) is a set of programs and services provided to children from birth to school years that supports their learning and development. Availability of quality ECCE programs is vital for the development of not only children and families but also communities and countries. High quality ECCE programs have certain structural and process characteristics. One of the most important determinants of quality in ECCE programs is the quality of professional workforce serving children and families. In order to increase quality, there should be systems and supports for the training and development of high quality ECCE professionals. This chapter takes a look into Turkey, outlines its preservice education for ECCE teachers, presents a national in-service training project, and offers implications for practice. There need to be effective policies and strategies to cultivate a high-quality workforce in early childhood education and development across the world.
Digital Accessibility and Distance Higher Education in the Context of COVID-19
Authors: Najab Amal , Amrani Oumniya
Published: February 2022

The digital divide and unequal access to technological tools in higher education raise questions of social justice and equal opportunity. In this chapter, the authors used Amartya Sen's capability approach as an analytical framework for understanding digital accessibility in higher education and its impact on learning. Empirically, they conducted a survey of students at FSJES-Souissi, Mohamed V University of Rabat, Morocco, in the context of the COVID-19 health crisis. The results revealed the existence of a digital divide among students, particularly in terms of technological tools and continuous access to platforms. Adaptability, autonomy, and affordability are not the same for all. The distance learning experience is therefore relatively costly for some. For the post-COVID-19 crisis, they have proposed several recommendations for equitable distance higher education, primarily the need for a gradual transition to a hybrid learning mode.
Distance Learning as a Safe Haven During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Prospects for Post Pandemic
Authors: Haoucha Malika , Basurto-Santos Nora Margarita , Nadri Youssef , Nechad Hamid
Published: February 2022

The abrupt spread of COVID-19 has resulted in a global pandemic that has claimed millions of lives so far. This unprecedented health emergency has taken a toll on the economy of millions of individuals and families worldwide. The pandemic has also impacted the educational systems of many countries as it forced educational institutions to change their teaching and learning strategies. This chapter aims to provide an answer to four main research questions: the issues Moroccan and Mexican teachers faced in resorting to distance learning, what coping strategies teachers used in both countries, what policies and procedures were implemented in distance learning by the Moroccan and the Mexican governments, and finally, if there were any infrastructure issues reported in both countries with regard to the adoption of distance learning during the outbreak of the pandemic and the future prospects for the post-pandemic. The answers to these questions were sought by using both quantitative and qualitative data collected from teachers of whom 150 were Moroccan and 196 were Mexican.
The Potential of Using Smartphones in Teaching and Learning in Secondary School Education
Authors: Imwa Mphatso , Cabral Pedro Barbosa
Published: February 2022

This study aimed at exploring the potential of smartphone use in education with a particular focus on secondary schools. The literature review provided massive methods and applications of the smartphone in teaching and learning plus the challenges that surround it. The review made it possible to identify that there is a group of teachers who perceive the use of the devices as pedagogical tools, and another group of teachers that are against or have a reservation towards its inclusion in education. Students deemed the smartphones as highly necessary compared to teachers. From a literature perspective, it can be that some teachers are immigrants; therefore, they have difficulties in adopting or adapting to the trend. The study suggested that it is essential to try out some projects, such as teaching students with smartphones, especially in developing countries like those in sub-Saharan Africa to yield comparison against traditional teaching and learning.
Simulated Work-Based Learning in Technical and Vocational Education and Training
Authors: Chinengundu Tawanda
Published: February 2022

The chapter brings to light innovations in teaching and learning in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in the form of simulated work-based learning. The study enriches our understanding of the holistic nature of simulated based learning in TVET, highlighting benefits, problems of using simulation, and the enhancement of the use of simulation-based learning as an alternative or a complementary pedagogy in TVET. The methodology involved the use of secondary data in the form of literature on simulated work-based learning. Research on simulation is reviewed, and points about its effectiveness as it relates to teaching practical skills in TVET are cited. While the discussion cautions the limitations of simulation in teaching practical skills, it advocates the empowerment of the lecturers and learners in digital skills. Suggestions on engaging all stakeholders in TVET for the adoption of the innovation are proposed to strengthen the resilience and responsiveness of TVET systems.
Active Learning and Student Engagement in Indian Teacher Education
Authors: Prakasha G. S.
Published: February 2022

This chapter explores the teaching approaches implemented and challenges faced by teacher educators in learner engagement. The chapter also examines the readiness for active learning among the pre-service teachers. The study adopted sequential qualitative quantitative mixed method research design. It involved in-depth interview (IDI) of teacher educators and a descriptive survey to measure readiness towards active learning among trainee teachers. The study interviewed eight teacher educators from high quality teacher training colleges. The descriptive data revealed a low level of readiness among teacher trainees. ANOVA and t-tests revealed that the readiness for active learning differed across the age categories, between first years and final year students, but it did not differ between fresher and those who came with prior teaching experience.
Fabrication and Application of Aluminum Metal Matrix Composites
Authors: Krishnan Pradeep Kumar
Published: February 2022

A substantial effort has recently been made to fabricate numerous combinations of metal matrix composites. Aluminium metal matrix composite (AlMMCs) has been extremely popular among MMCs and is best suited for lighter materials in various industries and domestic applications. AlMMCs have significant faults in terms of production costs. More research is needed to develop AlMMCs that are both economic and suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. AlMMCs are manufactured using the casting technique, solid-state processing, infiltration method, accumulative roll bonding, spray deposition, friction stir processing, and other technologies. This chapter will summarize the current state of the art in aluminum-based metal matrix composites, as well as recent developments in processing and application, all in one location, so that relevant stakeholders can benefit the most and new advancements on such themes can be fostered.
An Examination of Verbal Aggression in Politically-Motivated Digital Discourse
Authors: Tsoumou Jean Mathieu
Published: February 2022

Verbal aggression in digital discourse has emerged as a substantial focus of interest for scholars wishing to examine how conflicts begin, unfold and end on Twitter, YouTube, blogs, and WhatsApp. However, despite all the scholarly attention that Facebook has received since its origin, verbal aggression on Facebook is still relatively under-researched. This paper examines verbal aggression online in the political discourse of Congo-Brazzaville Facebook users. More specifically, quantitative along with qualitative analyses of a dataset of 9,330 Facebook comments were jointly carried out. One critical finding is that explicit aggressive comments are overwhelmingly pervasive and on the increase, pointing to the conclusion that historical, social, sociolinguistic, and political factors are to a larger extent instigators of verbal aggression on Facebook. Furthermore, users employ different strategies to express or intensify verbal aggression, favoring explicit expressions of aggression such as insult and abuse over others like teasing.
Social Media and Networks for Sharing Scholarly Information Among Social Science Research Scholars in the State Universities of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Baskaran C. , Pitchaipandi P.
Published: February 2022

The study examines the impact and utilization of social networks and media for disseminating scholarly information among social science research scholars in south universities of Tamil Nadu, India. The study analyzed the respondent coverage from the universities: University of Madras, Bharathiar University, Bharathidasan University, Madurai Kamaraj University, Alagappa University, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, and Periyar University. An aggregate of 520 polls appropriated to the respondents out of eight universities in Tamil Nadu and 501 (96.34%) of the filled survey got from the respondents in the social science departments of the universities for the examination. The task of research has taken effort to collect the data to find out usefulness and impact of the social media and networks among the respondents in the selected state universities of Tamil Nadu.
L'eutanasia nella bioetica di impostazione utilitaristica. Analisi critica dei testi di J. Rachels e H. Kuhse.
Authors: Reichlin Massimo
Published: February 2022

Vengono analizzate le critiche portate da Rachels e Kuhse, autorevoli esponenti dell'utilitarismo anglosassone, alla teoria della sacralità della vita in relazione al problema dell'eutanasia. In entrambi questi autori si mostra in maniera evidente un fraintendimento radicale della natura dell'etica, fondamentalmente dovuto al carattere rigidamente consequenzialista del loro approccio. L'utilitarismo mostra di non essere attrezzato per il discernimento dei caratteri moralmente rilevanti nelle situazioni complesse proposte dalle fasi terminali della vita. L'autore mostra poi come i tradizionali principi del duplice effetto e della proporzionalità delle cure si prestino ad una più adeguata interpretazione dell'esperienza concreta dell'agire morale.
Unfair labour practice on staff in primary health care facilities, North West province, South Africa: A qualitative study
Authors: Serapelwane Maserapelo G. , Manyedi Eva M.
Published: February 2022

Background: Unfair labour practices on staff is a worldwide concern which creates conflicts and disharmony among health workers in the workplace. It is found that, nursing staff members are unfairly treated without valid reasons in primary health care (PHC) facilities and predominantly in the developing countries and South Africa is not an exception.Objectives: The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of operational managers regarding unfair labour practices on staff by their local health area managers, and describe the perceptions of operational managers towards such treatment.Method: A qualitative, descriptive, exploratory and contextual research approach was considered appropriate for the study. The population of the study comprised operational managers working in PHC facilities in the North West province, South Africa. Purposive sampling was used to select participants for the study and focus group interviews used to interview 23 operational managers. Ethical measures were applied throughout the study.Results: The six phases of thematic analysis were used to analyse the data collected for the study. Two themes that emerged are experiences of factors related to unfair labour practices in the PHC facilities and the perceptions regarding how to improve their working conditions. The categories that were found in the first themes were favouritism and discrimination. In the second theme, in-service training and transparency regarding staff training and development emerged. Recommendations comprised, among others, training on the concepts of equality in the workplace, and reinforcement of transparency regarding granting of study leave and attending workshops.Conclusion: Operational managers in the PHC facilities experienced unfair labour practices as evidenced by favouritism and discrimination.
Experiences of adolescents and parents on the mental health management of depression in adolescents, North West province, South Africa
Authors: Chukwuere Precious C. , Sehularo Leepile A. , Manyedi Mofatiki E.
Published: February 2022

Background: Living with or managing an adolescent suffering from depression predisposes the adolescent and parents to various experiences, considering the multifactorial nature of depression and associated symptoms.Objective: This study explored and described the experiences of adolescents and their parents on the mental health management of depression in the North West province (NWP), South Africa.Method: A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive, contextual research design was adopted. Data was collect from two mental health care institutions and two mental health care units attached to two general hospitals in the NWP, SA. Thirty-two participants (18 adolescents and 14 parents) were purposefully selected for the study. Data were collected through individual interviews and analysed using Tesch’s open-coding method to generate themes and categories which were presented with the concurrent support of participants direct quotations.Results: The study revealed that the experiences of adolescents with depression and their parents taking care of them at homes include the following: emotional distress, poor coping mechanisms, financial burden, repeated suicidal attempts, negative attitudes from support systems and withdrawal behaviours. Appropriate therapeutic environments, ongoing monitoring by mental healthcare practitioners and adequate support systems were suggested by participants as management approaches that could enhance the recovery of adolescents from depression.Conclusion: The findings revealed the devastating experiences of adolescents with depression and their parents taking care of them in their various homes which confirms the dire need for attention on the plights of these groups in order to facilitate adolescents’ recovery and strengthen the adolescents’ and parents’ coping mechanisms for a healthier family.
In-hospital interventions to promote relational practice with families in acute care settings: A scoping review
Authors: Emmamally Waheedha , Erlingsson Christen , Brysiewicz Petra
Published: February 2022

Relational practice is characterised by genuine interaction between families and healthcare professionals that promotes trust and empowerment. Positive clinical outcomes have been associated with relational practice. To assess and examine in-hospital interventions designed to promote relational practice with families in acute care settings of emergency departments, intensive care units and high care units. The preferred reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines informed the design of this scoping review. To identify relevant studies, databases (Academic Search Complete; CINAHL; PubMed; PsyInfo) and the search engine Google Scholar were searched using terms for core elements of relational practice and family engagement. Of the 117 articles retrieved, eight interventional studies met the search criteria. The interventions focused on relational practice elements of collaborating with and creating safe environments for families, whilst only one addressed healthcare professionals being respectful of families’ needs and differences. In relation to the nature of engagement of families in interventions, the focus was mainly on improving family functioning. Family engagement in the interventions was focused on involving families in decision-making. The scoping review revealed a limited number of in-hospital interventions designed to promote relational practice with families in acute care settings. Further research is encouraged to develop such interventions.Contribution: The scoping review has highlighted specific elements of relational practice that have been overlooked in the mapped interventions. This provides guidance on where future interventional research may be focused.
Comparative Study of Postoperative Pain Relief Using Preincisional Versus Postincisional Infiltration With 0.25% Bupivacaine in Abdominal Hysterectomy Under General Anesthesia
Authors: Mishra Smarika , Gogia Pratiksha , Yadav Sandeep , Kumar Sumit , Singh Prachi , Malviya Deepak
Published: February 2022

Background and Aims:

Hysterectomy, probably the most common non-pregnancy related surgery performed in gynaecology, is associated with moderate to severe post-operative pain. Wound infiltration with local anaesthetic agent reduces the transmission of pain from the wound, in addition, local inflammatory response to the injury is also suppressed. The infiltration of local anaesthesia can be done either pre- or post-operatively. The present study was designed to determine the efficacy of pre-incisional infiltration versus post-incisional infiltration with 0.25% Bupivacaine in providing post-operative pain relief in patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy.

Methods:

In Prospective Interventional Randomised study, 90 female patients posted for elective abdominal hysterectomy under general anaesthesia were randomly allocated into three equal groups of 30 patients each.

Group I:

Patients receiving subcutaneous infiltration with 40 mL of 0.25% Bupivacaine 5 mins before skin incision.

Group II:

Patients receiving subcutaneous infiltration of surgical area with 40 mL of 0.25% Bupivacaine at end of surgery (after peritoneal closure).

Group III (Control Group):

Patients receiving no local anaesthetic infiltration. Observations were made for the duration of effective analgesia from end of the surgery until the first use of rescue analgesic along with the frequency and cumulative amount of rescue analgesics in 24 hours.

Results:

We found that at baseline, pain score of patients in Group III (3.87±1.17) was maximum followed by that in Group I (2.57±0.90) and minimum in Group II (2.20±0.61). Requirement of first analgesia was earliest in Group III (79.50±23.90 minutes) followed by Group I (136.83±13.16 minutes) and last in Group II (146.17±12.78 minutes), in addition, cumulative dose of analgesia was required by patients in Group III (152.50±36.76 mg) followed by that in Group I (132.50±37.80 mg) and minimum by that in Group II (115.00±38.06 mg).

Conclusion:

Subcutaneous infiltration of Bupivacaine either pre-incisional or post-incisional, helped to reduce the immediate post-operative pain intensity, delayed the first rescue analgesic requirement, reduced the post-operative dose and frequency of rescue analgesia. However, post-incisional intervention had an edge over pre-incisional intervention.
Oxygen Supply in Hospitals
Authors: Jain Ragi , Sharma Charu
Published: February 2022

Medical oxygen is an essential medicine as is aptly stated by the World Health Organization. With the advent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and with increased lung involvement, oxygen has become a precious life-saving drug. With more than 200 million cases worldwide, this pandemic has put tremendous pressure on scarce healthcare resources. In a step toward our readiness for further COVID-19 waves, we would like to bring forth the information regarding oxygen supply in the hospitals. We searched various published literature in journals and books, as well as scientific databases, including PubMed Central, Google Scholar, National Medical Library, and Medline, using search terms as “oxygen sources,” “oxygen supply,” and “hospitals.” The relevant articles published during the period of 1990–2021 and in the English language were selected. This article is an attempt to enrich the readers in further strengthening the oxygen supplies in hospitals during such pandemics and other natural disasters.
Comparative Study to Evaluate the Effect of Ultrasound-Guided Pericapsular Nerve Group Block Versus Fascia Iliaca Compartment Block on the Postoperative Analgesic Effect in Patients Undergoing Surgeries for Hip Fracture under Spinal Anesthesia
Authors: Natrajan Pratheeba , Bhat Ravindra Rahuveera , Remadevi R. , Joseph Idhuyya Raajesh , Vijayalakshmi S. , Paulose T. Deepak
Published: February 2022

Background:

Fractures in and around the hip are a major concern in young as well as the elderly. Ultrasound-guided (USG) peripheral nerve blocks help in early surgical fixation of these fractures by providing perioperative pain relief as well as early mobilization resulting in reduced morbidity and mortality.

Aims:

This study aims to compare the efficacy of USG pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block versus fascia iliaca compartment (FIC) block.

Setting and Design:

Prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled study.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty-four patients above 18 years of age with hip fracture belonging to the American Society of Anaesthesiologists physical status Classes I and II scheduled for hip surgery were randomly allocated into two groups. Group 1(PENG block) received USG-guided PENG block and Group 2 (FIC block) received USG guided FIC block for postoperative pain relief. Postoperative pain relief (at rest) was evaluated by Numeric Rating Scale score from 20th min and at regular interval for 24 h. The total analgesic consumption in the first 24 h was also noted.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data were analyzed by using nonparametric test and Chi-square test. Hemodynamic variables and pain scores were analyzed using analysis of variance for two groups and independent t-test was used for comparison between two groups.

Results:

Postoperative NRS score was higher in FIC block than PENG block which was statistically significant at 1 h (P = 0.035) and at 4 h (P = 0.001). The first requirement of analgesic was significantly late in PENG block group (8.17 ± 3.129) as compared to FIC block group (4.00 ± 1.477).

Conclusions:

PENG block provides better postoperative analgesia, with reduced requirement of rescue analgesics in 24 h as compared to FIC block in patients undergoing surgeries for hip fracture under spinal anesthesia.
Usefulness of Thromboelastography for Perioperative Evaluation of Hemostatic Profile in Patients with Primary Brain Tumors Undergoing Surgery
Authors: Khatri Vikalp , Hemlata  , Mehrotra Megha Kohli , Kohli Monica , Malik Anita , Verma Anupam
Published: February 2022

Context:

Hemostatic abnormalities are more common in patients with brain tumors than systemic malignant diseases. Conventional coagulation tests (CCT) are poor assays for dynamic assessment of clot strength in whole blood. Thromboelastography (TEG) gives us detailed information on the dynamics of clot development, stabilization, and dissolution reflecting in vivo hemostasis. TEG can assess both thrombosis and fibrinolysis.

Aims:

This study aimed to investigate the temporal trends in hemostatic profile occurring during surgery for primary brain tumors, using a combination of TEG and CCT, and to assess perioperative blood component support.

Subjects and Methods:

A prospective, observational study was done on 40 patients with primary brain tumors larger than 4 cm in maximum diameter on computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. The tests (TEG and CCT [PT, INR, activated partial thromboplastin time, and platelet count]) were performed preoperatively (on the day of surgery), intraoperatively (2 h into surgery), and postoperatively (the day after surgery).

Statistical Analysis:

SPSS Version 21.0 statistical analysis software was used.

Results:

We found a universal trend toward hypercoagulability (persistent decrease in R-time, K-time and increase in MA, α-angle, Coagulation Index) in all the TEG parameters measured intraoperatively and postoperatively even though the values were within normal limits. Results of CCT had poor correlation with TEG parameters. The mean intraoperative blood loss was 737.7 ± 185.6 mL, for which PRBC was transfused in 17 patients, FFP in 13, but no platelet transfusion was done intraoperatively.

Conclusions:

We found a trend toward hypercoagulability in our study in intraoperative and postoperative period using TEG which was not evident on CCT. TEG was a useful diagnostic tool to identify coagulation abnormalities and to guide perioperative blood transfusion.
To Study the Role of Perfusion Index as a Predictor of Hypotension during Spinal Anesthesia in Lower Segment Cesarean Section – A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Jabarulla Reehana , Dhivya D , Kumar M S Prasanth
Published: February 2022

Background and Aims:

Spinal anesthesia has become the choice of neuraxial anesthesia for cesarean delivery. Hypotension, the most common side effect of spinal anesthesia is more in parturients. Perfusion index (PI) is one of the newest methods, used noninvasively for the prediction of hypotension postspinal anesthesia, evaluation of regional block success, and a tool for pain assessment. In our study, we have used PI for predicting the occurrence of hypotension postsubarachnoid block in elective lower segment cesarean section (LSCS).

Methods:

In this prospective observational study, parturients posted for elective LSCS under spinal anesthesia were included. Spinal anesthesia was performed at L3-L4 interspace using 25G (gauge) Quincke needle, with 1.8 mL of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine plus 20 μg fentanyl. Hypotension was defined as a decrease in systolic blood pressure >25% from the baseline.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Statistical analysis was performed using the paired sample t-test, Chi-square test, and independent t-test.

Results:

From our study, we had found that a positive correlation exists between the baseline PI of the patient and the occurrence of hypotension intraoperatively. A cutoff value of 1.75 (with P < 0.001) was found to be significant; above which the occurrence of hypotension was definite. The sensitivity of this cutoff value was 75% and specificity was 71% for this value.

Conclusion:

Baseline perfusion of >1.75 can predict hypotension postspinal anesthesia in LSCS. The incidence of hypotension was about 93% in parturients whose baseline was above the cutoff value.
Comparison of Real-Time Ultrasound with Capnography to Confirm Endotracheal Tube Position in Patients in Critical Care Unit—A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kuppusamy Anand , Mirunalini Gunaseelan , Koka Mohana Vatsalya , Ramamurthy Balaji
Published: February 2022

Background:

Confirmation of the position of the endotracheal tube is a crucial step in the management of critically ill patients. Confirmation by capnography is the gold standard but it is practically impossible in all situations. Ultrasound (USG) can be used as an effective alternative to confirm the endotracheal tube (ETT) position. We aimed to determine the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy of real-time USG with capnography to determine the correct placement of the ETT.

Patients and Methods:

The study population consisted of a nonselected series of 65 consecutive patients aged above 18 years who required endotracheal intubation in the critical care unit. Outcomes measured were confirmation of ETT by USG and capnography and time taken to confirm ETT position by USG and capnography, ruling out endobronchial placement of the ETT.

Results:

The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of real-time USG of the upper airway to detect the ETT position were 98.36% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 91.20%–99.96%), 100% (95% CI: 39.76%–100%), 100%, 80% (95% CI: 36.41%–96.54%), and 98.46% (95% CI: 91.72%–99.96%), respectively. The mean time taken to detect the position of ETT by capnography (T2) was 15.91 ± 3.14 s, whereas that by real-time upper airway ultrasonogram (T1) was 11.85 ± 2.32 s, and the difference was statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Real-time tracheal USG is an alternative method to confirm the ETT position, which is not only sensitive and accurate but also faster than capnography.
Comparison of Ramosetron, Ondansetron, and Granisetron in Attenuating Maternal Hypotension after Spinal Anesthesia in Patients Undergoing Lower Segment Caesarean Section
Authors: Narendra Suvina , Singh Dipali , Prakash Jay , Priye Shio , Kumar Shailesh , Bharati Bharati
Published: February 2022

Background:

Spinal anesthesia (SA) has many advantages in lower segment caesarean section (LSCS), but hypotension is the main issue that can be managed in different ways. This study was conducted to know the effectiveness of three intravenous serotonin receptor antagonists (ramosetron, ondansetron, and granisetron) in the prevention of bradycardia and hypotension during LSCS under SA.

Patients and Methods:

A total of 160 parturients posted for LSCS under SA were enrolled in this study and divided equally into four groups. Five minutes before SA, Group R received intravenous (IV) 0.3 mg ramosetron, Group O received 4 mg ondansetron IV, Group G received 1 mg granisetron IV, and Group S received IV normal saline. All solutions were diluted with normal saline to 5 mL to blind the drugs. Heart rate (HR), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure were recorded. The total consumption of vasopressor and side effects were recorded.

Results:

The decrease in mean arterial pressure and mean HR was significantly lower in group R than other groups at all intervals (P < 0.05). The incidence of hypotension was 25% in group R compared with 42.5%, 55%, and 72.5% in groups O, G, and S, respectively.

Conclusion:

Premedication with intravenous ramosetron significantly reduced hypotension, HR, and total vasopressor usage in LSCS parturients. Intravenous ondansetron and granisetron had lesser effects than ramosetron.
Arterial Blood Gases Interpretation
Authors: Ibrahem Shimaa Elsoudy , Morsy Warda Youssef Mohamed , Mohamed Reda Biomy , Seloma Yousria Abd Elsalam
Published: February 2022

Background

Understanding the arterial blood gases’ (ABG) analysis report, its interpretation, and applying this in practice represents an essential skill for critical care nurses.

Aim

To assess critical care nurses’ knowledge and practices regarding ABG interpretation at a university hospital, Kafr-Elsheikh Governorate.

Research questions

Q1: What is the level of critical care nurses’ knowledge regarding ABG’ interpretation at a university hospital, Kafr-Elsheikh Governorate? Q2: What is the level of critical care nurses’ practice regarding ABG interpretation at a university hospital, Kafr-Elsheikh Governorate?

Design

A descriptive exploratory research design was utilized.

Sample

A sample of convenience, including all male and female critical care nurses who are working in the selected settings and willing to participate in this study.

Setting

This study was conducted at different ICUs affiliated to a University Hospital − Kafr-Elsheikh Governorate.

Tools

Three tools were developed, tested for clarity, and feasibility: (a) nurse’s personal and background data sheet, (b) nurses’ knowledge-assessment questionnaire about ABG’ interpretation, and (c) critical care nurses’ practice regarding ABG interpretation observational checklist.

Results

The majority of the studied sample (94.6 and 100%) had unsatisfactory knowledge and practice level with a mean of 9.45±2.94 and 30.5+8.7, respectively. Moreover, 29.7% of the study participants had satisfactory practice level about double-check of ABG result and had unsatisfactory practice level about analysis of ABG parameters, recording ABG results, reporting ABG results, follow-up of medical care, and double-check of ABG with a percentage of 100, 100, 94.6, 83.8, and 70.3%, respectively. Finally, knowledge level was not found to differ significantly in relation to sex (t=1.142 at P≤0.261). However, sex did not play a role in relation to practice (t=0.528 at P≤0.601).

Conclusion

Critical care nurses (in the current study) had unsatisfactory knowledge and practice scores regarding ABG interpretation.

Recommendations

Updating knowledge and practice of ICU nurses through carrying out continuing educational programs about ABG interpretation, strict observation of nurses’ practice when caring for patients with acid and base imbalance and providing feedback to maintain practices, and replication of this study on larger-probability sample selected from different geographical areas.
Incidentally Diagnosed Type 2 Youssef's Syndrome with Migrated Postcesarean Postpartum Intrauterine Contraceptive Device
Authors: Mishra Vibha , Pandey Himanshu , Shekhar Shashank , Sharma Charu
Published: February 2022

Vesicouterine fistula (VUF) also called Youssef's syndrome is a rare and the least commonly encountered entity among genitourinary fistulae. Treatment options range from excision of the fistulous tract with hysterectomy and primary closure of the urinary bladder to fistula repair. Migrated postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device is one of the rarest causes for VUF. Here, we are describing a case of incidentally diagnosed VUF with Type 2 Youssef's syndrome with migrated postplacental (postcesarean) intrauterine contraceptive device, treated with uterus-sparing laparoscopic VUF closure.