bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
National Bank of Romania
Authors: Nuţă Florian Marcel , Marcuta Alina , Marcuta Liviu , Nuta Alina Cristina
Published: February 2024

Recent global developments have created multidimensional and diverse pressures on countries' economies. The economic, financial, and social impact level differs from country to country. However, the globalization framework of economic relations allowed a much more intense expansion of the capacity to propagate the effects of risks. In this sense, events such as the crisis generated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the outbreak and continuation of the war in Ukraine and other geopolitical imbalances, the recent turmoil in the banking system, the energy crisis, the rapid developments in the field of digitization (digital transition), and last but not least, the concerns of reducing the negative effects of human activity on the environment (green transition). All of these are major factors that require a systemic and common (concerted) approach of national and international institutions, with the role of regulation, supervision, and recovery of the economic-social context.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and E-Waste Management
Authors: Patra Bhairab Chandra , Mishra Dibya Nandan
Published: February 2024

Electronic trash (e-waste) creation has increased exponentially as a result of the widespread use of electronic devices and the quick rate of technical development, posing a serious environmental concern. Extended producer responsibility (EPR) has become a crucial tactic for addressing the negative social and environmental effects of e-waste. This chapter provides entrepreneurs with a detailed roadmap for navigating the challenges of EPR adoption in e-waste management. For entrepreneurs, the application of extended producer responsibility in the management of e-waste poses both a difficulty and an opportunity. By embracing the EPR precepts and following the recommended roadmap, entrepreneurs may significantly minimize the environmental impact of e-waste, promote resource conservation, and create a more sustainable future.
Equity-Driven Solutions
Authors: Babu C. V. Suresh , Anniyappa C. S. Akkash , Karthik Anamanamudi Sai , Babu Sekhar , Pavan Yedlapalli Sai Durga , Brahanandam Ch Bala
Published: February 2024

This chapter delves into the global e-waste challenge, emphasizing health risks and equity issues. Positioned within the book's theme, it justifies the relevance of IoT-driven solutions for addressing e-waste's social impacts. The discussion navigates through health risks and disparities in developing nations. IoT-enabled e-waste monitoring is explored, detailing how sensors create real-time databases for precise tracking. Analysis of IoT data assesses health risks, identifies contamination hotspots, and facilitates equitable resource allocation. The chapter highlights IoT's role in tailored awareness campaigns, particularly for underserved populations, and underscores its impact on policy development and enforcement. The conclusion summarizes vital insights, emphasizing the imperative of awareness, regulation, responsible recycling, and global collaboration in tackling e-waste's societal repercussions. This chapter serves as a crucial resource for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers engaged in the effective management of e-waste's social consequences.
Creating Business Process Intelligence Through Value Network Analysis
Authors: Baum Iniga Antonia , Stary Christian
Published: February 2024

Value-driven (process) management is an established means of networked business operation. Value networks effectively represent value exchanges between stakeholders and the resulting business transactions. Holomaps as simple, but expressive value network representations form the core of the organizational development and transformation technique value network analysis (VNA). Knowledge generated throughout a VNA application is the baseline to specify business process models. Value exchanges among concerned stakeholders need to be transformed to communication and operational tasks. So far, this transformation has not been guided in a structured and thus effective way. The authors propose a respective tagging mechanism. It takes into account the structure of holomaps and semantic process design. By using a behavior specification technique for semantic process design, process models can be executed for validation purposes. Hence, prior to implementation, organizational practice cannot be expressed and experienced by concerned stakeholders as part of human-centered transformation processes.
Artificial Intelligence in Chess-Playing Automata
Authors: Wheeler Stephen F.
Published: February 2024

This chapter presents the results of a study for improving the performance of the quiescence phase of Alpha-Beta (α-β) search. The Minimax algorithm's α-β enhancement enhances depth-first search performance by optimizing solutions in near best-first order, thereby reducing the computational effort from O(bd) to O(√bd) where b is the branching factor of the game-tree and d is the depth of the search. This research uses a full breath search to delay the asymptotic behavior of the combinatorial explosion to five levels of depth. A narrow width search involves expanding solutions involving material exchange, pawn promotion, or king-in-check until the position reaches quiescence without any material exchanges or promotions. When quiescence is reached, the evaluation function scores the leaf nodes of the game-tree. This chapter's research shows that α-β pruning is enhanced when a solution without material exchange or promotion is attempted first during the quiescence phase of α-β search which applies to chess playing programs as well.
Generative AI-Powered Chatbots
Authors: Deshmukh Ajita , Gomes Natasha Maria
Published: February 2024

Imagine having a concept for a literary work but being unable to see it take shape because of a plethora of reasons: paucity of time, writer's block, linguistic barriers, among others. Gen AI promises to be a supportive partner in these creative endeavours. With the synergy of mind and machine, literary texts are born. This chapter attempts to provide insights into the comparison between the nuances of human-AI co-creative partnerships through the crafting of short stories. Using the lens of Collaborative Autoethnography, two seasoned educators collaboratively reflect on cognitive, behavioural, and affective dimensions of co-creating with ChatGPT, a chatbot developed by Open AI. The chapter analyses the co-creation process followed by each of the authors and brings out the commonalities and specificities of the individual lived experience to achieve a narrative piece of work. The insights of the co-creation process would be beneficial to educators, curriculum designers, technology specialists, students and those who intend to use AI-powered chatbots as co-creators.
Revolutionizing Content Creation and Curriculum Development Through Generative AI
Authors: Singha Surjit , Singha Ranjit
Published: February 2024

AI can generate and provide customized, inclusive, and engaging learning experiences. This chapter emphasizes the collaborative partnership between human educators and AI systems, highlighting its crucial role in maximizing AI's potential. Educators provide context and guidance through adaptive learning platforms, AI-powered feedback, and AI-enhanced content creation to ensure students receive a personalized, contextually relevant education. Human knowledge, including pedagogical insight and ethical considerations, complements the capabilities of artificial intelligence. AI promises personalized perpetual learning, enhanced accessibility, and dynamic curriculum design in the future. This vision of collaboration promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and inclusiveness. Educators, institutions, policymakers, and AI developers must ensure that education remains empowering, inclusive, and excellent for AI to be integrated responsibly. By embracing this partnership, education becomes more accessible, individualized, and influential.
Automated Assessment and Feedback in Higher Education Using Generative AI
Authors: Naseer Fawad , Khalid Muhammad Usama , Ayub Nafees , Rasool Akhtar , Abbas Tehseen , Afzal Muhammad Waleed
Published: February 2024

This chapter explores the integration of generative AI in higher education assessment, addressing the inadequacies of traditional methods in meeting the diverse needs of contemporary learners. It highlights the potential of AI technologies, such as natural language processing and computer vision, to offer personalized, scalable, and insightful evaluations. The chapter critically examines both the enhanced capabilities introduced by AI in educational settings and the ethical challenges it poses. Emphasizing the need for a balanced approach, it suggests synergizing AI's analytical strengths with human expertise to ensure equitable and effective assessments. This work aims to guide educators, administrators, and policymakers through the complexities of AI adoption in academic evaluation, focusing on maintaining academic integrity and inclusivity while leveraging the transformative potential of AI in education.
Leading the Fintech Revolution
Authors: Madanchian Mitra
Published: February 2024

Financial technology (Fintech) has emerged as a disruptive force reshaping our conceptions of money, payments, investments, and banking. As the financial environment evolves, the importance of leadership in the Fintech industry grows. This chapter examines the dynamic intersection of leadership and Fintech, delving into leaders' unique challenges and opportunities in a landscape where innovation and regulatory complexities coexist. The reader will navigate the complexities of Fintech leadership, obtaining insight into the essential skills, strategies, and attitudes required to flourish in this swiftly evolving field. Various topics are covered, from fostering innovation and embracing risk to navigating regulatory obstacles and cultivating resilient teams.
Advancements in the Indian Fintech Landscape
Authors: Stobdan Jigmet , Kumar Sunil
Published: February 2024

The financial sector across the globe has been witnessing continuous disruptions every year. India is not an exception to the phenomenon. India figured in the list of economies where Fintech adoption was one of the highest in the year 2021. This kind of rare feat can be attributed to the conducive ecosystem that has been ensured by the state and subjects of the country over the years. During the past few years especially after 2016, there has been a paradigm shift in the Indian Fintech landscape. Numerous advancements have taken place in the sector and new players are emerging as serious threats to established financial institutions. Fintech has become synonymous with innovations and disruptions. This chapter aims to explain the current state of affairs and the innovations in the Indian Fintech landscape. The authors intend to show how new fintech players are coming up with out-of-the-box thoughts and disrupting the status quo of established financial institutions.
Financial Technology
Authors: Alveno Marcela , Gironda Diego Sebastian , Giraldo Valeria , Zamarron Carlos , Paez Paula
Published: February 2024

FinTech investments in the Asia-Pacific region exceeded North America for the first time in 2017. These sources of FinTech come primarily from North-East Asia with fast-growing young markets such as China and mature economies like Japan and South Korea. As technologically fierce competition tackles the industry, data analytics, network externalities, and interwoven activities in the North and East Asia region made them stand out. By shedding light on the journey of FinTech adoption across the region, this research seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of China, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and Mongolia`s evolving financial landscape in the FinTech setting.
New Marketing Approaches and Consumer Trends in Line With Technological Developments
Authors: Atasoy Aylin , Basal Murat
Published: February 2024

Today, it is clear that brands that want to provide consumers with useful and helpful experiences must use information and technology to positively influence the future process. In the digital age, masses of data about consumers, products and services are coming from many channels. This big data is now being used for customers who expect to be special, through personalization-based marketing approaches such as phygital, data-based and content marketing. Also, data-driven, predictive, contextual, augmented and agile marketing approaches as components of Marketing 5.0 are new marketing trends that increase the performance of brands and their competitiveness in the market. These new technology-enabled marketing trends include augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), chatbots and digital assistants, influencer marketing, video marketing, location-based marketing, machine learning and artificial intelligence, and content marketing.
Unleashing the Déjà Rêvé Effect in Marketing
Authors: Sahin Fatih
Published: February 2024

Déjà rêvé, subjective sensation of re-experiencing a past dream, is a key concept in marketing. It involves the sensation of déjà vu, blurring the lines between reality and representation. The concept of simulacra, where replicas surpass their original sources, challenges the conventional understanding of reality. The metaverse, a concept that integrates digital experiences, raises concerns about the replacement of genuine reality with simulated ones. The convergence of VR, postmodernism, and innovative marketing strategies has reshaped how individuals interact with technology and perceive reality. The integration of VR and AR technologies with postmodern influences has led to immersive experiences that evoke a sense of déjà rêvé, blurring the boundaries between reality and the virtual world. This immersive experience can blur the boundaries between digital identities and real-life experiences, offering marketers a unique opportunity to engage with consumers authentically. By leveraging technologies, marketers can create familiarity, personalization, engagement, and consumer value.
Can Social Media Be a Transformative Tool for Building a Better Society?
Authors: Paker Neslihan
Published: February 2024

The study aims to evaluate consumers' perceptions of social marketing designed to enhance environmental awareness through social media platforms. The approach employed in this study is exploratory and interpretive. The data gathered from YouTube videos on the “Doğa İçin Çal” platform filmed during the 2019-2023 period were semiotically analyzed in terms of their content characteristics. Afterwards, the user comments were evaluated as well. During the analysis process, the consumer perception framework was used by utilizing the content analysis method through the Maxqda software program. The findings indicate that the videos effectively captured the target audience's attention and fostered social cohesion by promoting unity. However, the perception elements utilized in the videos indicate that the viewers pay greater attention to the aspects associated with musical performance, while the matter of environmental awareness remains in the background.
Maximizing Cyber Intelligence and Security Team Capabilities Through DEI
Authors: MacLennan Helen
Published: February 2024

The cyber intelligence and security sector faces a growing number of threats and attacks that are increasing in complexity, but reports indicate that the current workforce lacks the qualified professionals needed to combat them. The U.S. Government and the educational community have been increasing efforts to help grow and diversify a workforce that continues to be primarily white male dominated. However, there are organization-level tactics that can be leveraged to increase and enhance the talent pool. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiates should be viewed not only as opportunities to engender equality but also as an opportunity to help recruit and develop the talent pool necessary to strategically heighten cyber intelligence and security capabilities. Consequently, the author reviews the benefits that DEI can bring to cybersecurity and discuss practical recommendations for moving forward with DEI initiative that can help support the industry's growing challenges.
Do Green Human Resource Management Practices Improve Sustainable Performance?
Authors: Allam Nehal M. , Mansour Marwa M.
Published: February 2024

This article explores the role of green human resource management (GHRM) practices in improving the sustainable performance of Egyptian private hospitals. Based on the collected data from 398 workers in Egyptian private hospitals, the results show that Egyptian private hospitals applied GHRM practices with lower level of applying the green compensations, green gob analysis and HR planning, and green recruitment and selection. The results supported the relationship between GHRM practices and sustainable performance with moderate level. This requires Egyptian private hospitals to commit to applying GHRM practices with the aim of developing environmental awareness among employees, directing them towards green behavior, and spreading green culture with the aim of supporting sustainable performance.
Artificial Intelligence Ethics Best Practices Model for Financial Decision-Making in Chinese Financial Institutions
Authors: Mai Wenzhen , Ambashe Mohamud Saeed , Ohueri Chukwuka Christian
Published: February 2024

Chinese financial institutions (CFIs) are increasingly embracing artificial intelligence (AI) for their financial decision-making driven by AI's capacity to mitigate risks and enhance efficiency and accuracy. However, there remain ethical challenges related to the integration of AI in financial decision-making. This study develops the AI ethics best practices model (AB-PraM) to mitigate ethical concerns and enhance the application of AI in financial decision-making. By employing a quantitative methodology, this research collected questionnaire data from 320 financial experts in CFIs. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was adopted to identify AI ethics best practices for the implementation of the AB-PraM. The findings of this research will mitigate AI ethics challenges in CFIs and provide a practical framework for transparent and accountable decision-making in alignment with ethical standards and regulations.
Audit on the safety and effectiveness of the use of KTP laser in stapedotomy: One year experience in an Otorhinolaryngology Center at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Sri Lanka
Authors: Thelikorala S. M. , Damsen D. , Daminda D. A. D. G.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: This retrospective descriptive study was conducted to assess the effectiveness and safety of using KTP laser in surgically diagnosed patients with otosclerosis who underwent Endoscopic Laser Stapedotomy at the Teaching Hospital Anuradhapura from October 2020 to September 2021. Endoscopic Laser Stapedotomy is used as a minimally invasive technique and it is considered superior to conventional stapedectomy.Methods: Nine patients who underwent laser stapedotomy were incorporated in the study. Data was collected via a pre-formed paper-based operator filled questionnaire. The results of pre-operative pure tone audiogram (PTA) were compared with a three-month post-operative audiogram in addition to demographic and clinical variables and post-operative complications.Results: Mean post-operative air bone gap closure within 10dB was achieved in 55.5% patients. Mean four frequency air bone gap improvement was 25.3dB. Statistically significant post-operative impairment in bone conduction was not demonstrated.Conclusion: Use of KTP laser in endoscopic stapedotomy has produced improvement in air bone gap closure resulting in improvement of hearing with less side effects as a minimally invasive surgical modality in patients with otosclerosis.
Assessing cardiac resynchronization therapy response in heart failure patients: a comparative analysis of efficacy and outcomes between transvenous and epicardial leads
Authors: Neves Pereira Maria Tamara , Tinoco Mariana , Castro Margarida , Pinheiro Luísa , Cardoso Filipa , Calvo Lucy , Ribeiro Sílvia , Monteiro Vitor , Sanfins Victor , Lourenço António
Published: February 2024

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an effective treatment for selected heart failure (HF) patients. Although transvenous implantation is the standard method, it is not feasible in some patients, so the epicardial lead emerges as an alternative. We aim to compare CRT response, procedure-related complications, and the occurrence of clinical outcomes between patients with transvenous and epicardial leads. In a single-center retrospective study, we enrolled consecutive HF patients submitted to CRT implantation with a defibrillator between 2013 and 2022. Clinical response was defined as an improvement of at least one of the New York Heart Association classes with no occurrence of cardiovascular death or HF hospitalization in the first year of follow-up. Echocardiographic response was attained with an increase in left ventricular ejection fraction 10% or a reduction of left ventricular end-diastolic volume >15% at 6-12 months after CRT implantation. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (cardiovascular mortality and HF hospitalization) and all-cause mortality were evaluated. From a total of 149 patients, 38% (n=57) received an epicardial lead. Clinical (63% versus 60%, p=0.679) and echocardiographic (63% versus 60%, p=0.679) responses were similar between the transvenous and epicardial groups. Patients in the transvenous group had a shorter hospital stay (2 versus 7 days, p<0.001). Procedure-related complications were comparable between groups (24% versus 28%, p=0.572), but left ventricular lead-related complications were more frequent in the transvenous group (14% versus 2%). During a median follow-up of 4.7 years, the rate of MACE was 30% (n=44), with no differences in both groups (p=0.591), neither regarding HF hospitalization (p=0.917) nor cardiovascular mortality (p=0.060). Nevertheless, the epicardial group had a higher rate of all-cause mortality (35% versus 20%, p=0.005), the majority occurring during long-term follow-up (>12 months), with no deaths in the postoperative period. Considering the comparable rates of CRT response, procedure-related complications, and MACE between groups, we conclude that epicardial lead is a feasible alternative for CRT when transvenous lead implantation is not possible. The occurrence of a higher number of all-cause deaths in epicardial patients in the long-term follow-up was mainly due to infectious complications (unrelated to the lead) and the progression of oncological/chronic diseases.
Hybrid glycophorin GP (A-B) and anti-Ena antibody in a multiparous woman
Authors: Banerjee Soumee , Mathur Ankit , Chakraborty Santanu , Reddy T. Vijay
Published: February 2024

The MNS system is a large, complex group of antigens, with 50 antigens at present. The major antigens of the system are carried on glycophorins A and B, which are important red cell sialoglycoproteins. Altered expression of MNS antigens is possible in cases where there is a formation of hybrid glycophorins. Some of these patients may make clinically significant antibodies which can be associated with hemolytic transfusion reactions (HTR) or hemolytic disease of the fetus and the newborn. This is a report of one such case with both these phenomena, in a multiparous woman. Incompatible cross-matches at the referral center caused the samples to be sent to this immunohematological laboratory where the serological profile was detailed. On sending the samples to a third blood group reference laboratory, gene sequencing was done and the antibody was identified. At this immunohematological laboratory, the phenotype was determined as M-N+. The patient’s sera showed panreactivity with all panel cells (3-cell and 11-cell). At blood group reference laboratory, the findings were as follows- GYP (A-B) hybrid gene consistent with hemi/homozygosity for GYP*JL was confirmed and the panreactive antibody was identified as anti - Ena. Rare, atypical phenotypes in the MNS system can result from mutations affecting the sialoglycoproteins the antigens are carried on. The subset of antigens expressed in individual phenotypes varies and these patients can develop antibodies against the antigens they lack. When they present with immunohematological challenges such as panreactivity and incompatibility, a combination of serology, molecular technologies, and family studies help solve the problem. Alternatives to transfusion are also useful options in managing such cases.
Safety and efficacy of least incompatible red cell units in autoimmune hemolytic anemia: A prospective analysis of hemoglobin increment and hemolysis after transfusion
Authors: Michael Harsha , Shaiji P. S. , Sreenath S. , Mayadevi S.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is a challenge in autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) patients due to pan reactivity and crossmatch incompatibility. Apprehensions about the safety and efficacy of least incompatible (best-matched) red cells are common among treatment providers.

AIM:

A primary objective was to study the effect of RBC transfusion on hemolysis parameters (hemoglobin [Hb], serum bilirubin, serum lactate dehydrogenase [LDH], and reticulocyte count) in AIHA patients.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN:

This was a hospital-based prospective observational study conducted on 40 AIHA patients attending the department of internal medicine from January 2020 to July 2021 who received RBC Transfusions.

METHODOLOGY:

Blood samples were collected for evaluating hemolysis parameters: Hb, reticulocyte count, serum bilirubin, and serum LDH before transfusion and compared with the same parameters within 12 h after transfusion.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS:

Analysis was done by SPSS software Version 16. Paired t-test was used to find the effect of RBC transfusion on hemolysis parameters and independent t-test was used to compare the effect of compatible and incompatible RBC transfusions.

RESULTS:

The median age at presentation was 42 years with a female preponderance (67.5%). Majority of the patients belong to warm AIHA (73%) and Secondary AIHA (60%). Compatible RBC units could be provided to 57% of cases and 43% were transfused with the least incompatible units. The mean pretransfusion Hb in AIHA was 4.3 mg/dl and showed a statistically significant increase after transfusion (P < 0.001). A significant difference between reticulocyte levels of compatible and incompatible transfusions was noted with a P = 0.025. No statistically significant difference noticed in Hb, serum LDH, serum bilirubin levels between compatible and incompatible RBC transfusions.

CONCLUSION:

RBC transfusions in AIHA patients provide Hb increment similar to other anemic patients. RBC transfusions should not be denied in AIHA patients in view of hemolysis and best-matched units also may be transfused in indicated cases.
Prevalence of unexpected red blood cell antibodies in pregnant women and follow-up of pregnancy outcome in pregnant women treated with intra-uterine transfusion
Authors: Golia Sunil , Tiwari Aseem Kumar , Aggarwal Geet , Khetrapal Anil , Tyagi Sandeep Kumar , Jain Chetna , Gupta Shubham , Pawar Samruddhi
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

For the management of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN), it is important to detect unexpected red cell antibody in pregnant women. We assessed the prevalence of unexpected red cell antibodies in consecutive pregnant women attending antenatal clinic (ANC). More importantly, cases with unexpected antibody causing severe anemia were followed-up for intervention (Intra-uterine transfusion {IUT}) and outcome of pregnancy (still-birth/live-healthy).

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:

The study was conducted with an objective to find the prevalence of unexpected RBC antibodies in pregnant women, their specificity and to do the follow-up for IUT and outcome of pregnancy (still-birth, live-birth) in antibody positive women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a prospective study from January 2021 to May 2022 at two tertiary care centres. All antenatal samples received by the laboratory were screened for unexpected red cell antibody. Whenever antibody screen was positive, antibody identification was performed. Patients, positive for unexpected antibody and anemia were followed up for any transfusion-based intervention and outcome of pregnancy.

RESULTS:

A total of 539 consecutive samples were worked up and among these, 10 samples (1.85%) were found to be antibody positive. The antibodies identified were Anti-D (n=6), anti-Leb (n=1), anti-M (n=1), anti-C (n=1) and anti-E (n=1).The prevalence of unexpected antibodies in Rh positive and Rh negative pregnant women was 0.83% and 10.9% respectively. Follow-up was done for all 10 cases with unexpected antibody and anemia was monitored by MCA PSV (middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity).Two women developed severe anemia thus requiring single intrauterine transfusion (at 26 weeks and 28 weeks respectively) each, for correction of anemia. In both these cases, healthy male child was delivered. At 3-month follow-up both children were alive and healthy.

CONCLUSION:

The study found prevalence of unexpected RBC antibodies in pregnant women as 1.85%. The study also underlined importance of transfusion-based interventions contributing to successful outcome in couple of cases with severe anemia.
Utility of saliva to detect secretor status in para-Bombay blood group and Bombay blood group
Authors: Chavan Surekha K. , Borade Devika Suresh , Shah Pranjal S.
Published: February 2024

Bombay blood group, H-deficient nonsecretor phenotype and para-Bombay blood group, and H-deficient secretor phenotype are both rare blood groups. Secretor status refers to the presence or absence of water-soluble ABO blood group antigens in an individual’s body fluids, such as saliva, tears, breast milk, urine, and semen. Individuals who secrete these antigens in their body fluids are referred to as secretors, while people who do not, are termed nonsecretors. Bombay phenotype individuals are red cell H-deficient nonsecretors, whereas para-Bombay individuals are red cell H-deficient secretors. We present a comparative study of two individuals, a 27-year-old male patient having para-Bombay phenotype blood group and a 30-year-old female patient having Bombay phenotype blood group. In both of these patients, saliva was utilized to demonstrate the secretor status.
Comparative analysis of alloimmunization in healthy voluntary blood donors versus general patients: A 6-year experience from regional transfusion center in Northwestern part of India
Authors: Yadav Anshika , Agarwal Pankaj , Gupta Gajendra Nath
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Alloimmunization is a significant complication of blood transfusion and can lead to hemolytic transfusion reactions. The prevalence of alloimmunization in healthy voluntary blood donors and patients in the northwestern part of India is not well documented.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE:

This study aims to investigate the prevalence, specificity, and clinical significance of antibodies in blood donors and general patients in a regional transfusion centre in the North Western part of India.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of alloimmunization in voluntary blood donors and patients over a six-year period in a regional transfusion center. A total of 145,299 donor samples and 58,009 patient samples were screened for unexpected antibodies using standard techniques.

RESULTS:

Of the 145,299 donor samples screened, only 16 (0.011%) were positive for unexpected antibodies, with anti-M being the most common (62.5%). In contrast, among the 58,009 patients screened, 275 (0.47%) were found to be positive for alloantibodies, with blood group B showing the highest prevalence. The most common alloantibodies found in patients were anti-D, anti-E, anti-c, and anti-K in the Rh and Kell blood group systems.

CONCLUSION:

The incidence of alloimmunization in voluntary blood donors is low and comparable to other regions, which can be attributed to strict donor selection criteria and pre-donation screening practices. However, the incidence of alloimmunization in patients is higher, highlighting the need for routine screening for unexpected antibodies in patients to prevent hemolytic transfusion reactions. Further studies are needed to explore the underlying factors contributing to the higher incidence of alloimmunization in patients.
Evaluation of hepatic fibrosis by transient elastography in βthalassemia children before and after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Salama Reem , Elhawary Eslam , Ziada Dina , Elshanshory Mohamed , Elkaffas Asmaa
Published: February 2024

Background

Iron overload is a major concern in all patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT). The liver, being a target for iron deposition is at risk of developing liver fibrosis or even cirrhosis. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only curative treatment in clinical practice, a process that is surrounded by several precautions and complications that may affect the liver condition as well.

Aim

To evaluate the degree of hepatic fibrosis in children with TDT before and after HSCT.

Methodology

Twenty-five children with TDT who underwent HSCT were investigated by serum ferritin in addition to the assessment of liver fibrosis using transient elastography by FibroScan and liver fibrosis scores before and 1-year after HSCT.

Results

Out of the 25 children enrolled, only 16 completed a 1-year post-transplantation follow-up period. Slightly increased liver stiffness values measured by FibroScan 1-year post-transplantation, but the patients were still having the same degree of fibrosis of the pre-transplant period. FIB-4 score and APRI also showed statistically significant increase post-transplant as compared to pre-transplantation.

Conclusion

Stationary degree of fibrosis in thalassaemic children after HSCT with slight increases in the liver stiffness values by transient elastography that necessitates longer follow-up of the fibrosis status of patients’ post-transplant. Transient elastography is considered a helpful noninvasive tool for assessment of the hepatic status before and after HSCT.
Prevalence of chromosomal abnormalities detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia at Alexandria Main University Hospital
Authors: Sorour Amani F , Imbaby Salma A E , Tawfik Nourane
Published: February 2024

Background

Understanding the genetic basis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) will help in risk stratification and a better therapeutic strategy. We aimed to evaluate the frequency of chromosomal abnormalities using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) panel at our institution compared with other studies.

Patients and methods and results

A CLL FISH panel that included P53/ATM Probe Combination and D13S319/13qter/12cen Deletion Enumeration Probe was analyzed in 100 newly diagnosed patients with CLL. TP53 deletion was the most prevalent aberration, which is in contrast with other Middle Eastern countries, where deletion 13q14 was the commonest aberration among patients.

Conclusion

The heterogeneity of CLL clinical course is possibly explained by underlying molecular factors that affect prognosis including data from FISH probes. It is proposed that these abnormalities should be investigated at the time of diagnosis to better understand the disease outcome and prognosis.
The prevalence of neonatal anemia in Al Baha, Saudi Arabia: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Alharbi Raed A
Published: February 2024

Background

Neonatal anemia contributes to the global burden of anemia, a crucial public health concern. It is primarily associated with mild to severe neurological impairment, which may result in perinatal mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anemia and its association with sex and age in newborns at Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia. A retrospective observational study was performed using the R-studio/r-base coding tool. The analysis included the mean, standard deviation, median, interquartile range, correlation matrix, and logistic regression. The overall prevalence of neonatal anemia was 25.36% (n = 140). The mean±SD of hemoglobin (Hgb) (g/dl) was significantly different between anemic and nonanemic neonates, with values of 9.36 ± 1.04 and 15.74 ± 3.35 (P < 0.0001). The prevalence of neonatal anemia in males and females was 29.8% and 20.5%, respectively. Among males, the neonatal anemia Severity was 14.4% (mild anemia) and 6.1% (moderate anemia), while among females, it was 20.1% (mild anemia) and 9.7% (moderate anemia). In female neonates, the prevalence of microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic anemia was 6.08%, 62.36%, and 31.56%, respectively. In contrast, the prevalence rate of microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic anemia among male neonates, was 8.3%, 54.4%, and 29.07%, respectively. In females, only normocytic iron deficiency anemia was observed (55%), whereas the prevalence of normocytic iron deficiency anemia and microcytic iron deficiency anemia in males was 69% and 31%, respectively. Overall, iron deficiency anemia affected 65% of males. Compared with neonates aged 0-90 days, neonates aged 90-180 days have ~0.4 times more likelihood of developing neonatal anemia. Female sex is one of the risk factors associated with anemia. Further investigation and implementation of preventive measures are crucial to address the prevalence and severity of neonatal anemia.
Therapeutic evidence of tranexamic acid effectiveness in reducing postoperative blood loss among patients with femoral shaft fractures: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Khameneh Mohsen P , Bozorgmanesh Mohamadreza , Shiri Rahim , Modir Hesameddin
Published: February 2024

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the effect of tranexamic acid on decreasing surgery-related blood loss among patients diagnosed with femoral shaft fracture.

Patients and methods

This double-blinded, randomized, clinical trial was designed on 60 patients, who have been referred for femoral shaft fracture surgery to the Arak Valiasr Hospital. The eligible patients were assigned into intervention and control groups using balanced block randomization. For patients administered 10 mg/kg of intravenous tranexamic acid slowly to the first group before the surgery, when strict control of vital signs and standard monitoring were utilized throughout the procedure.

The amount of blood loss during and after the surgery (6 and 24 h later) and hemoglobin and hematocrit at, before, and after the procedure was measured, and data was analyzed by SPSS 22 (IBM Corp.).

Results

The clinical evidence revealed lower levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit in the control than in the intervention group within postoperative 24 h (P=0.001), while less blood loss was observed in the intervention group during surgery and at 6 and 24 h later (P=0.001).

Conclusion

Our results highlight strong support for the hypothesis that in femoral shaft fractures, a tranexamic acid regime significantly decreases blood loss, and subsequently a postoperative improvement in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels was made in patients in the intervention group versus those in the control group. Hence, tranexamic acid administration seems to be an excellent, safe option for controlling bleeding in orthopedic surgeries, where a possible intraoperative blood loss is expected and the clinical circumstances of the patient allow them.
Digital necrosis in a chronic hemodialysis patient with multiple myeloma
Authors: Jabrane Marouane , Bouchoual Mohammed , Arrayhani Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Digital ulcer generally reflects the presence of focal ischemia related to a microangiopathy. Etiologies are dominated by connectivites in women and by diffuse arteriopathies such as Leo-Buerger disease in men, as well as emboligenic heart disease. This article describes the case of a 46-year-old chronic hemodialysis female patient with nephroangiosclerosis, who presented a progressive onset of intermittent cyanosis of the fingertips and toes. The symptomatology was worsened by the evolution toward necrosis at the amputation stage. Etiological workup was in favor of multiple myeloma, requiring the initiation of chemotherapy.
Clinicopathologic Study of Sickle Cell-associated Kidney Disease: A Nigerian Experience
Authors: Hassan Muzamil Olamide , Arogundade Fatiu Abiola , Osasan Stephen Adebayo , Gbadegesin Babajide A. , Omotoso Bolanle Aderonke , Okunola Oluyomi Oluseun , Sanusi Abubakr Abefe , Adelusola Kayode A. , Akinola Norah O. , Akinsola Adewale
Published: February 2024

Background:

Improvements in sickle cell disease (SCD) care have resulted in the survival of many patients into adulthood, although this is accompanied by the increased incidence of end-organ damage, including chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Objectives:

This study assessed the prevalence, pattern and predictors of renal dysfunction in SCD patients and investigated the associated renal histopathologic changes.

Methods:

We evaluated 105 patients with SCD, for proteinuria, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and tubular dysfunction. Renal biopsy was conducted on 22 patients who qualified. Data were analysed using SPSS package version 23.

Results:

Thirty-seven (35.2%) of the 105 patients had CKD, as defined by an eGFR of 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and/or proteinuria. The fractional excretion of potassium (FEK) was elevated in all patients, whereas the fractional excretion of sodium (FENa) was elevated in 98.1%. Glomerular filtration rate was negatively correlated with irreversible percentage sickle cell count (r = −0.616, P = 0.0001), FEK (r = −0.448, P = 0.0001) and FENa (r = −0.336, P = 0.004). Age, irreversible percentage sickle cell count, haemoglobin levels and FENa were the major predictors of CKD. The histological pattern in the 22 patients who had biopsies was consistent with mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis 11 (50%), minimal change disease 6 (27.3%), focal segmental glomerulosclerosis 3 (13.6%) and interstitial nephritis 2 (9.1%).

Conclusions:

CKD was prevalent in SCD patients, and it was characterised by tubular dysfunction and mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis. The main predictors of CKD were increased age, severity of vaso-occlusive crisis, worsening anaemia and tubular dysfunction.
Vaccine Safety: Assessing the Prevalence and Severity of Adverse Events Following COVID-19 Vaccination amongst Healthcare Workers in Tertiary Health Facilities in Nigeria
Authors: Azees Ayotunde Sherif , Fasiku Mojirola Martina , Isa Abdulfattah , Ezenwoko Ahuna Zainab , Ahmed Abdullahi , Temitayo-Oboh Abiola Oluwatoyin , Utulu Rowland , Adeniyi Makinde Adebayo , Musa Abubakar , Alo Chihurumnanya , Ibrahim Usman Muhammed , Imhonopi Gloria Bosede , Adesoye Oluwaseun Opeyemi , Okeke Ifeyinwa Maureen , John Godwin ThankGod , Ayinla Abdulquadri Yeketi
Published: February 2024

Background:

Vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines, are known to be cost-effective interventions for disease prevention and control. However, adverse events following immunisation (AEFI) may challenge the acceptance of these vaccines. This study assessed the prevalence and severity of COVID-19-related AEFI amongst healthcare workers at tertiary health facilities in Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare workers who had received the COVID-19 vaccine. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select participants from six Tertiary Health Facilities in Nigeria. Ethical approval (NHREC/01/01/2007-19/07/2021) was obtained from NHREC. Data were analysed using IBM® SPSS version 25 and categorical variables were presented in tables/charts using frequencies and proportions.

Results:

A total of 2130 respondents participated in the study, with a mean age of 37.4 ± 9.1 years. Most of the respondents, 1674 (78.6%), had two doses of the vaccine, and the overall prevalence of AEFI was 813 (38.2%). Common among the AEFI reported following the administration of the first dose of the vaccine were fever 649 (30.5%) and pain at the injection site 644 (30.2%), while it was pain at the injection site 216 (10.1%) and fever 173 (8.1%) for second dose. The higher proportions of AEFI were mostly mild to moderate.

Conclusion:

The study observed a relatively low prevalence of AEFI, with the commonly reported ones being fever and injection site pain. It is crucial that countries continuously collect the data on AEFI and establish causality as a way to improve quality and guarantee vaccine safety.
Modal Analysis of Combustion Chamber Acoustic Resonance to Reduce
High-Frequency Combustion Noise in Pre-Chamber Jet Ignition Combustion
Engines
Authors: Torii Kenji , Kimura Noritaka , Kobayashi Hiroki , Kobayashi Hiroyuki , Konishi Keizo
Published: February 2024

The notable increase in combustion noise in the 7–10 kHz band has become an issue
in the development of pre-chamber jet ignition combustion gasoline engines that
aim for enhanced thermal efficiency. Combustion noise in such a high-frequency
band is often an issue in diesel engine development and is known to be due to
resonance in the combustion chamber. However, there are few cases of it becoming
a serious issue in gasoline engines, and effective countermeasures have not been
established. The authors therefore decided to elucidate the mechanism of
high-frequency combustion noise generation specific to this engine, and to
investigate effective countermeasures. As the first step, in order to analyze
the combustion chamber resonance modes of this engine in detail, calculation
analysis using a finite element model and experimental modal analysis using an
acoustic excitation speaker were conducted. As a result, it was found that there
are two combustion chamber resonance modes in the 7–10 kHz band, both of which
affect the high-frequency oscillation of the in-cylinder pressure. Both resonant
modes have mode shapes that form a single nodal plane in the diametrical
direction including the central axis of the cylinder, but the orientations of
those nodal planes differ by 90 degrees. In addition, the two resonance
frequencies are influenced by not only the bore diameter, temperature, and heat
capacity ratio, but also the spatial shape of the combustion chamber. Therefore,
when the piston descends and the spatial shape of the combustion chamber
changes, the resonance frequencies change as well.