bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Media Use in Teaching and Learning
Authors: Ekenna Ugochi Chioma , Ezema Leonard Anezi
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 outbreak opened a new scenario where social media use for school educational activities became imperative to teach online and to implement a current and innovative educational model. This chapter provides the most relevant information on types of social media, social media effect of COVID-19 on education, educational social networking, student privacy issues and education technology, safety measures for the use of social media in schools, role of social media and its importance in teaching and learning, application of social media platforms to education, numerous opportunities that social media offer to both students and educators, and challenges of social media in education.
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
Authors: Smith Andrea N.
Published: July 2021

Since the conception of education in the United States, schools have been the battlegrounds for equal opportunities among African American students. In an effort to improve educational options and achievement for such students, charter schools have emerged as a popular solution for failing schools. The literature and case study in this chapter provides a sociohistorical look at the education of African Americans and African American parents' perceptions of charter schools and their expectations that they hold for educational institutions. The level of hope that was evident from the parent narratives centered on non-academic measures such as cultural pride and caring environments and mirrored that of pre-Brown schools that served African American students. The case study does not suggest that charters are the solution to educational inequity but may serve as one promising avenue for educational reform that should be informed by culturally responsive practices that encourage collaboration between schools and African American families.
Working With Immigrant Children and Families
Authors: Yu Hae Min
Published: July 2021

This chapter discusses ways of understanding and supporting immigrant children and families. Sociocultural theory and a funds of knowledge framework are introduced to provide pertinent guidelines for early childhood education leadership who is working with immigrant children and families. Looking deeply at the experiences and challenges of immigrant children and families, this chapter proposes that leaders need to ask new questions about the complex realities of immigrants in the U.S. schools in order to respond more effectively to their needs and provide more equitable education for all children. Recommended practices include employing the lens of culturally responsive teaching. It challenges deficit views and negative labels against immigrant children and families, invites early childhood education leadership to rethink curriculum and assessment, and explores ways of empowering immigrant families and communities.
Culturally Responsive Social-Emotional Learning
Authors: Cressey James
Published: July 2021

Culturally responsive teaching (CRT), social-emotional learning (SEL), and positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) are powerful, evidence-based approaches to teaching and supporting students. Special educators and related professionals often use an integrated approach that draws from all three perspectives. However, scholarly researchers and professional development providers too often present each approach in isolation. This chapter proposes an integrated model of classroom and behavior management theories and practices, seeking to promote equity, cultural responsiveness, and social-emotional wellness. A review of pertinent research will be offered, followed by a series of real-world case example vignettes illustrating how special educators and rehabilitation professionals have integrated CRT, SEL, and PBIS in their work with students from PreK through high school.
Story Cubing Strategies
Authors: Amodei Michelle L. , Strong Laura J.
Published: July 2021

Educational expectations vary according to a child's culture. In the United States and many other parts of the world, the population of young people entering the educational system is becoming more culturally diverse. In response, educators seek new ways to adapt pedagogical practices to meet the needs of diverse learners. Storytelling is a universal approach that is practiced in many cultures, and story cubes are highly motivating because they encourage children's personal and relevant contributions while addressing the following language domains: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The first part of this chapter provides a framework for linking the needs of dual language learners to developmentally appropriate practices using storytelling, and the second part addresses the importance of storytelling for young children who are dual language learners while providing specific strategies for using story cubes as a culturally responsive approach to enhancing and supporting linguistic, social, and cognitive development.
Considerations Regarding the Green Retrofitting of Residential Buildings From Human Wellbeing Perspectives
Authors: Felseghi Raluca Andreea , Şoimoşan Teodora Melania , Filote Constatin , Răboaca Maria Simona
Published: July 2021

Currently, buildings are considered to be a continuously evolving organism that over time has to be treated, rehabilitated, and upgraded to meet the requirements set by the user at a certain stage. Buildings are a central element of the EU member states' energy efficiency policies, accounting for about 40% of final energy consumption, and 36% of greenhouse gas emissions, and about 75% of buildings are not energy efficient. Recent applications and studies establish that green retrofitting has maintained older existing buildings to increase energy efficiency, optimize building performance, increase occupants' satisfaction, and boost economic return while decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. In this regard, this chapter aims to address the main factors that negatively affect the performance of residential buildings and presents the common green retrofitting measures that can be taken to ensure the state of human well-being in residential buildings.
Social Life-Cycle Assessment for Building Materials
Authors: Kutschke Liz
Published: July 2021

The goal of sustainable design and development is threefold, including economic, environmental, and social sustainability. While there are well-established methods for assessing the economic and environmental performance of products and buildings, the determination of social performance is less clear. This chapter explores the emerging field of social life cycle assessment (S-LCA), particularly as it relates to building materials and construction. This chapter includes 1) an introduction to and overview of S-LCA, summarized case studies of S-LCA; 2) a discussion of the relevance of S-LCA in sustainable design practice and education; 3) an examination of the role of environmental life cycle assessment (E-LCA) in building performance standards and certifications as a model for the incorporation of S-LCA; and 4) a reflection on areas for future research, including the addition of social science theory and practice for methodology, criteria, and metric development.
Do Demographic Variables Make a Difference in Entrepreneurial Leadership Style?
Authors: Gunawan Aristo Surya , Cahayani Ati
Published: July 2021

Industry 4.0 brings a challenge in terms of labor reduction. However, there is an opportunity in job creation for the creative industry/economy. The creative economy in Indonesia shows an increasingly contribution to the Indonesian economy in recent years, and it is also predicted to continue increasing in the future. Leadership for the entrepreneur is needed to make their business entity (Micro Small Medium Enterprises) to survive and succeed. This research aims to find out whether there is a difference in entrepreneurial leadership style with four demographic variables, i.e., gender, age, education level, and marital status.
Recent Advances in Edge Computing Paradigms
Authors: Sodanapalli Sana , Shrestha Hewan , Dhasarathan Chandramohan , Puviyarasi T.  , Goundar Sam
Published: July 2021

Edge computing is an exciting new approach to network architecture that helps organizations break beyond the limitations imposed by traditional cloud-based networks. It has emerged as a viable and important architecture that supports distributed computing to deploy compute and storage resources closer to the data source. Edge and fog computing addresses three principles of network limitations of bandwidth, latency, congestion, and reliability. The research community sees edge computing at manufacturing, farming, network optimization, workplace safety, improved healthcare, transportation, etc. The promise of this technology will be realized through addressing new research challenges in the IoT paradigm and the design of highly-efficient communication technology with minimum cost and effort.
Exploring Important Aspects of Service Quality While Choosing a Good Doctor
Authors: Shah Adnan Muhammad , Yan Xiangbin , Shah Syed Asad Ali , Ullah Rizwan
Published: July 2021

Online reviews generated by patients on physician rating Websites (PRWs) have recently received much attention from physicians and their patients. In these reviews, patients exchange opinions as a diverse set of topics regarding different aspects of healthcare quality. This study aimed to propose a novel service quality-based text analytics (SQTA) model with other qualitative methods to mine different aspects of physicians and their clinical relevance in choosing a good doctor. Data included 45,560 online reviews that the authors scraped from a U.S.-based PRW (Healthgrades.com). The resulting topics demonstrate excellent classification results across different disease ranks, with overall accuracy and recall of 98%. The proposed classifier’s performance was 3% better than the existing topic classification methods applied in previous studies. The resulting clinically informative topics could help patients and physicians to maximize the usefulness of online reviews for efficient clinical decisions and improving the quality of care.
Drivers of Performance Indicators for Success of Green SCM Strategy and Sustainability Performance
Authors: Al-Batayneh Ahmad Rajaa , Khaddam Amineh A. , Irtaimeh Hani Jaza'a , Al-Batayneh Suliman Raja
Published: July 2021

This study sought to identify drivers of performance improvement indicators for GSCM strategy in Alban Al-Youm Company in Jordan and hence the impact of this strategy on sustainability performance through innovation strategy. Quantitative data were collected from a sample of participants from Alban Al-Youm Company in Jordan by a questionnaire-base survey to analyze research hypotheses via structural equation modeling (SEM). GSCM strategy success depends on pivotal drivers of performance improvement indicators. Eighteen significant drivers were identified in the current study. Moreover, the results found that GSCM strategy success exerted a significant effect on both innovation strategy and sustainability performance. Principally, innovation strategy mediated the effect of GSCM strategy on sustainability performance. This study is the first one to address performance indicators of GSCM practices in the dairy industry sector in Jordan. The study added knowledge value on the assessment of GSCM strategy performance, its impact on sustainability performance through innovation strategy.
Monitoring Immune Activation with Whole-Body Fluorodeoxyglucose–Positron-Emission Tomography in Simian Immunodeficiency Virus–Infected Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Sinharay Sanhita , Srinivasula Sharat , Schreiber-Stainthorp William , Shah Swati , Degrange Paula , Bonvillain Andrew , Wang Jing , Dodd Lori , Carrasquillo Jorge A , Hammoud Dima A , Di Mascio Michele
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to assess immune activation in tissues by measuring glucose metabolism with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) and investigate the associations of various peripheral markers of disease progression with initiation and interruption of combination antiretroviral therapy in SIV-infected rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta). Mixed-effect linear models revealed a significant inverse association of peripheral blood CD4+ T cell counts (p < 0.01) and a direct association of plasma viral load (p < 0.01) with the FDG uptake in the spleen, bone marrow, and most clusters of lymph nodes. In contrast, no significant associations were found for the liver and the bowel FDG uptake. We also found no association of the fraction of proliferating peripheral blood T and B lymphocytes with FDG uptake in any analyzed tissues. The bowel FDG uptake of uninfected animals was heterogeneous and reached levels as high as those seen in the bowel or the clusters of lymph nodes or the spleen of high viremic SIV-infected animals, suggesting that factors beyond SIV-induced immune activation dominate the gut FDG uptake.
Electroless Plating with UV Modification for Thermosetting Dielectric and Decay Suppression of High Frequency Transmission Property
Authors: Toba Masaya , Mitsukura Kazuyuki , Yamaguchi Masaki
Published: July 2021

Semiconductor packages for high-performance devices with printed circuit boards having multi-wiring layers such as FC-BGA have been attracting attention to realize ultrareliable and low-latency communications in 5G networking. Cu wirings for the package are usually fabricated by the semi-additive process (SAP) with the de-smear process and/or the modified semi-additive process (MSAP) by using Cu film with large surface roughness. Although a de-smear process and Cu film can obtain enough adhesion between dielectric and Cu seed layer by the anchoring effect to secure reliabilities, the interface between dielectric and Cu seed layer should be smooth to achieve low attenuation of electric signals at high frequencies. Here, instead of those processes, we applied UV modification for the surface of our developed thermosetting dielectric to realize a smooth and high-adhesive seed layer against the dielectric. We obtained .5 kN/m of peel strength between dielectric and Cu seed layer despite surface roughness (Ra) of dielectric being 265 nm by the nano-level anchoring effect at UV modified layer. Because of the smooth interface by UV modification, the normalized S21 value of micro-strip line was about 29% improved compared with that assembled through Cu film with Ra of 2,400 nm at 50 GHz.
The Effect of Cu Target Pad Roughness and Solution Flow on the Growth Mode and Void Formation in Electroless Cu Films
Authors: Bernhard Tobias , Zarwell Sebastian , Massey Roger , Steinhäuser Edith , Kempa Stefan , Branduuml Frank
Published: July 2021

The effect of the Cu target pad roughness on the growth mode of electroless Cu from two different Cu baths was investigated, with bath A having a cyanide based, and bath B, a non-cyanide-based stabilizer system. Both baths are commonly used within the PCB industry. In the case of bath B, for an average target pad roughness higher than Ra = 300 nm, two growth modes are observed. The first mode is a copying of the subjacent Cu substrate morphology, whereas the second forms spherical grains (Cu-nodules) predominantly at the exposed sites of the substrate crystals. These Cu nodules typically have a radius comparable to that of the plated electroless Cu thickness and contain a high density of nanovoids toward their base. The related void formation seems relevant to weaken the overall Cu/Cu/Cu interconnection in the blind microvia. Interestingly, the tendency to form nodules with increasing Cu base roughness is widely suppressed for the cyanide-based bath A, where the deposit is nodule free up to a target pad roughness of approximately Ra=1,000 nm. When solution delivery and exchange were investigated, it is apparent that a low exchange rate has a negative impact on the electroless Cu deposition, and results with undesirable nodules and voids, even if the surface roughness values would suggest otherwise, could be expected.
Multimode Bus Coupler for Device Communication Integrated in 3D-Opto-MID
Authors: Lorenz Lukas , Nieweglowski Krzysztof , Bock Karlheinz
Published: July 2021

In this article, we give an overview of the development of an asymmetric optical bus coupler (AOBC) from the theoretical basis, the optical continuous wave, and bit rate performance to the implementation in a 3-D-Opto-MID package. The coupler allows for an interruption-free and bidirectional connection between two multimode waveguides, with different coupling ratios at the same node up to an aspect ratio of 5:1 depending on the coupling direction. For the first time, data transmission up to 12.5 Gbit/s is demonstrated with the AOBC, as well as the full implementation of the coupling element into a 3-D-Opto-MID package including an electrical test circuit.
Epidemiology of Injuries in National Collegiate Athletic Association Men's Baseball: 2014–2015 Through 2018–2019
Authors: Boltz Adrian J. , Powell Jacob R. , Robison Hannah J. , Morris Sarah N. , Collins Christy L. , Chandran Avinash
Published: July 2021

Context

The National Collegiate Athletic Association has supported men's baseball championships since 1947. Since its inception, the number of participating teams and athletes has considerably expanded.

Background

Frequently conducting injury surveillance of collegiate baseball athletes is essential for identifying developing temporal patterns.

Methods

Exposure and injury data collected in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Injury Surveillance Program during 2014–2015 through 2018–2019 were analyzed. Injury counts, rates, and proportions were used to describe injury characteristics; injury rate ratios were used to examine differential injury rates.

Results

The overall injury rate was 3.16 per 1000 athlete-exposures. The preseason injury rate was significantly higher than the regular season injury rate. The most commonly injured body parts were shoulder (16.1%), arm or elbow (16%), and hand or wrist (13.9%). The most reported specific injury was hamstring tear (7.9%).

Conclusions

The findings of this study aligned with previous studies—most injuries were due to noncontact and overuse mechanisms, less than one-half of injuries were related to upper extremity body parts, and one-third of all injuries were reported among pitchers.
Epidemiology of Injuries in National Collegiate Athletic Association Men's Basketball: 2014–2015 Through 2018–2019
Authors: Morris Sarah N. , Chandran Avinash , Lempke Landon B. , Boltz Adrian J. , Robison Hannah J. , Collins Christy L.
Published: July 2021

Context

Basketball has remained a popular sport for players and spectators in the United States since before the first National Collegiate Athletic Association men's championship tournament in 1939.

Background

Routine examinations of men's basketball injuries are important for identifying emerging temporal patterns.

Methods

Exposure and injury data collected in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Injury Surveillance Program during 2014–2015 through 2018–2019 athletic seasons were analyzed. Injury counts, rates, and proportions were used to describe injury characteristics, and injury rate ratios were used to examine differences in injury rates.

Results

The overall injury rate was 7.28 per 1000 athlete exposures, with competition rates twice those of practices (injury rate ratio = 2.07; 95% CI = 1.93, 2.22). Injuries to the ankle (22.2%), knee (13.0%), head/face (11.3%), and hand/wrist (10.1%) accounted for most reported injuries, with sprains (30.4%), contusions (14.3%), and strains (13.9%) most commonly reported. Ankle sprain rates initially trended upward and decreased between 2017–2018 and 2018–2019; concussion rates remained relatively stable during 2014–2015 through 2018–2019.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that common injury rates are trending downward relative to previous study findings.
Epidemiology of Injuries in National Collegiate Athletic Association Men's Tennis: 2014–2015 Through 2018–2019
Authors: Robison Hannah J. , Boltz Adrian J. , Morris Sarah N. , Collins Christy L. , Chandran Avinash
Published: July 2021

Context

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has sponsored men's tennis programs since 1982. The popularity of tennis has grown, as has sponsorship of men's tennis within NCAA institutions.

Background

Continued monitoring of athletic injuries is important for identifying emerging temporal patterns.

Methods

Exposure and injury data collected in the NCAA Injury Surveillance Program during 2014–2015 through 2018–2019 were analyzed. Injury counts, rates, and proportions were used to describe injury characteristics, and injury rate ratios were used to examine differential injury rates.

Results

The overall injury rate was 4.41 per 1000 athlete-exposures. Lateral ligament complex tears of the ankle (8.5%) were the most reported injury. Trunk (15.1%) and shoulder (13.2%) injuries accounted for the largest proportions of all injuries. Noncontact and overuse were the most common mechanisms of injury among all reported injuries, together accounting for 69.4% of all injuries.

Conclusions

Findings of this study differed slightly from previous studies, most notably in specific injuries reported. Continued monitoring of specific injury incidence as well as greater participation in injury surveillance is needed to inform the development of nuanced injury prevention strategies for this population.
Epidemiology of Injuries in National Collegiate Athletic Association Women's Lacrosse: 2014–2015 Through 2018–2019
Authors: Bretzin Abigail C. , D'Alonzo Bernadette A. , Chandran Avinash , Boltz Adrian J. , Robison Hannah J. , Collins Christy L. , Morris Sarah N.
Published: July 2021

Context

Lacrosse is an increasingly popular sport; the number of teams participating in collegiate women's lacrosse has increased by 21.4% in the past 5 years.

Background

The growth of National Collegiate Athletic Association women's lacrosse, coupled with the ongoing discussions surrounding protective equipment, necessitates further epidemiologic studies in this population.

Methods

Exposure and injury data collected in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Injury Surveillance Program during 2014–2015 through 2018–2019 were analyzed. Injury counts, rates, and proportions were used to describe injury characteristics, and injury rate ratios with 95% CIs were used to examine differential injury rates.

Results

The overall injury rate was 4.99 per 1000 athlete exposures. Less than 30% of injuries were time-loss injuries; injuries were most commonly attributed to noncontact (26.6%) and overuse (25.2%) mechanisms. The most commonly reported specific injuries were lateral ligament complex tears (ankle sprains; 9.1%), concussions (7.2%), and hamstring tears (3.8%).

Findings from this study were consistent with the existing epidemiologic evidence in previous studies. Injury incidence in practices, in preseason, and as a result of player contact warrant further attention in this population.
Epidemiology of Injuries in National Collegiate Athletic Association Women's Softball: 2014–2015 Through 2018–2019
Authors: Veillard Kevin L. , Boltz Adrian J. , Robison Hannah J. , Morris Sarah N. , Collins Christy L. , Chandran Avinash
Published: July 2021

Context

Women's softball athletes account for approximately 9% of all female athletes competing within the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

Background

Routine surveillance of NCAA women's softball injuries is important for identifying the emerging injury patterns in this sport.

Methods

Exposure and injury data collected during competitive seasons in the NCAA Injury Surveillance Program during 2014–2015 through 2018–2019 (5 years) academic years were analyzed. Injury counts, rates, and proportions were used to describe injury characteristics; injury rate ratios (IRRs) were used to examine differential injury rates.

Results

The overall injury rate was 3.92 per 1000 athlete exposures. Practice and preseason injury rates increased during 2015/16 through 2018/19. Most injuries were shoulder (15.2%), hand/wrist (11.8%), knee (11.2%), and head/face injuries (11.2%) and were classified as contusions (14.2%), sprains (14.1%), and inflammatory conditions (14.1%). Concussion (6.8%) was the most commonly reported injury, and concussion incidence fluctuated during 2014–2015 through 2018–2019.

Results indicate an increasing trend in practice and preseason injury incidence. Findings also suggest that workload accumulation in the shoulder and the mechanisms of concussion warrant further attention in this population.
Descriptive histomorphological evaluation of the testis and caudal epididymis following treatment with rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) and sutherlandia (Lessertia frutescens) in healthy and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Omolaoye Temidayo S. , du Plessis Stefan S.
Published: July 2021

Objective:

To evaluate the testis and the cauda epididymis after treating both healthy and diabetic rats with rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia), and sutherlandia (Lessertia frutescens), respectively.

Methods:

Ninety male Wistar rats were randomly divided into nine groups (n=10 per group). Fifty rats were randomized to receive tap water, 0.1 M citrate buffer, 2.0% fermented rooibos, 4.0% fermented honeybush, or 0.2% unfermented sutherlandia. Diabetes was induced via a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) at 45 mg/kg in 40 rats. The diabetic rats were randomized to receive tap water, 2.0% fermented rooibos, 4.0% fermented honeybush, or 0.2% unfermented sutherlandia. Rats were sacrificed after seven weeks of diabetic induction. Blood was collected for hormonal assay, while the testes and caudal epididymis were retrieved for histomorphological evaluations.

Results:

Diabetic rats treated with 2.0% fermented rooibos exhibited a significant increase in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) versus the vehicle group (P=0.002), and a 3.6% decrease compared to the diabetic control group (P>0.05). Diabetic rats treated with honeybush or sutherlandia showed 23.6% and 15.4% decrease in FPG when compared to the diabetic control group, respectively (both P>0.05). The diabetic control rats had a significant decrease in the percentage of histologically normal seminiferous tubules compared to the control group (P=0.049). There was 21.0%, 14.0%, and 5.4% rise in the percentage of normal seminiferous tubules in diabetic rats receiving rooibos, honeybush or sutherlandia, respectively, compared to the diabetic control group. The infusion control groups (rooibos, honeybush and sutherlandia) showed normal seminiferous tubules, presence of spermatozoa in the epididymal lumen, and had normal overall architecture. Both testicular and epididymal morphology were altered in the diabetic control group, but these disruptions were mildly ameliorated by rooibos, honeybush, and sutherlandia.

Conclusions:

The detrimental effects of diabetes on the histomorphological architecture of the testis and epididymis are mildly ameliorated by the infusions (2.0% fermented rooibos, 4.0% fermented honeybush, and 0.2% unfermented sutherlandia).
Effect of lactoferrin in the prevention of late-onset sepsis in preterm neonates
Authors: Farag Marwa M. , Eldin Omneya M.K.B. , Attia MennattAllah H. , Morsi Nada I.A. , El haddad Rania M.A.S.
Published: July 2021

Background

Lactoferrin (LTF) is a promising drug in the prevention of late-onset sepsis (LOS) in preterm infants as it causes priming of the immune system before the occurrence of insult.

Aim

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of LTF in the prevention of LOS.

Participants and methods

Preterm infants of gestational age less than or equal to 34 weeks showing no signs of sepsis in the first 72 h and admitted to NICU of Alexandria University Children Hospital from August 2019 to April 2020 were included in this study. Fifty six patients were randomly allocated into two groups: LTF group (n=28 patients) and control group (n=28 patients). Patients in the LTF group received LTF for 28 days postnatally or till 36 weeks postmenstrual age, whichever is reached first. All patients were monitored for development of LOS.

Results

Compared with the control group, LTF treatment was associated with a significantly lower incidence of culture-proven LOS (8/28 vs. 2/28, respectively) with a P value of 0.036. The administration of LTF decreased the serum C-reactive protein level at the end of the study in comparison with the level at the beginning of the study in the LTF group, with a mean value of 5.44±16.18 versus 3.71±2.57, respectively (P=0.021), and in comparison with the control group, with a mean value of 5.44±16.18 versus 27.45±55.20, respectively (P=0.021).

Conclusion

LTF reduces the incidence of culture-proven LOS in preterm neonates aged less than or equal to 34 weeks. LTF has been proven to have anti-inflammatory properties through its ability to decrease the C-reactive protein level.
Descriptive clinical study of children with beta-thalassemia at Damanhour Medical National Institute
Authors: Monem Ahmed A. , Shehata Saad , Elsayed Madiha , Ayad Ashraf
Published: July 2021

Background

Thalassemia is a genetic disorder of hemoglobin synthesis. Beta-thalassemia is particularly prevalent among Mediterranean people. Long-term transfusion therapy and iron chelating agents are the mainstay treatments of thalassemia patients.

Aim

The aim of this study was to identify the demographic, clinical, laboratory profile, and therapeutic features of B-thalassemia patients attending the Pediatric Hematology Clinic at Damanhour Medical Institute.

Patients and methods

This study included 74 thalassemia patients in the age range of 2–16 years, mostly from rural areas (el Behera Governorate). The total number of thalassemia patients followed up in the Pediatric Hematology Unit at Damanhour Medical Institute is up to 400 cases; the patients of this study were selected randomly from among them.

Results

Dysmorphic features were demonstrated in 44% of cases; 74% of cases were receiving packed red blood cells every month and 26% were receiving packed red blood cells more than once a month. Oral iron chelator (Deferasirox) was the main chelator used. Most of the patients had serum ferritin greater than 1000 µg/ml; thyroid dysfunction was evident in 21% of cases, with no definite clinical manifestations.
Prognostic value of red cell distribution width in neonatal sepsis in patients admitted at Assiut University Children Hospital
Authors: Akhnoukh Mariam N.G. , Mohie Zeinab M. , Shalaby Amira M.
Published: July 2021

Background

Sepsis accounts for 40% of neonatal emergencies and is a leading cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity.

Patients and methods

This prospective observational study was conducted at Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Assiut University Children Hospital.

Aim

The aim of the study was to detect the prognostic value of red cell distribution width (RDW) in cases of neonatal sepsis. The study enrolled all patients with neonatal sepsis who were admitted at Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Assiut University Children Hospital in period between July 2019 and June 2020. The study was approved by the Ethical Committee of Scientific Research, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, with IRB no. 17100401. Informed consent was taken from the patients’ parents. All neonates were full-term and subjected to the following: complete history taking and clinical examination for signs of sepsis, severe sepsis, or septic shock. Complete blood count, with differential leukocytic count; C-reactive protein (CRP); blood, cerebrospinal fluid, and urine cultures; and RDW were done for all enrolled neonates.

Results

Neonates with septic shock had significantly higher CRP (61.81±35.50 g/dl) in comparison with each of those with sepsis (23.66±24.90 g/dl) or severe sepsis (48.10±27.44 g/dl). It was noticed that mean RDW was significantly higher among neonates with septic shock (18.53±2.63%) in comparison with those with severe sepsis (17.54±2.05%) as well as those with sepsis (15.74±2.12%). RDW had positive significant correlations with CRP (r=0.75, P<0.001) and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (r=0.46; P<0.001). At cutoff value greater than 17.2%, RDW had 87% sensitivity and 71.4% specificity in prediction of mortality among neonates with neonatal sepsis, with overall accuracy of 76%. CRP at a cutoff point greater than 27 mg had 80% sensitivity and 63% specificity in prediction of mortality among neonates with neonatal sepsis, with overall accuracy of 68%.

Conclusion

RDW is a simple and cheap method and can be used for prediction of outcome of neonatal sepsis.
Assessment of cluster of differentiation 4 and 8 among children with trisomy 21
Authors: El Deriny Ghada F. , Marzouk Iman M. , Deghady Akram A. , Elshahat Noha E.
Published: July 2021

Background

Down syndrome (DS) is the most common genetic disorder with more probability of recurrent infections.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the differences in lymphocyte subgroups (CD4 and CD8) between DS children and to study the pattern and likelihood for recurrent infections and hospital admission due to infection.

Patients and methods

This study was carried out in the Genetic Unit of Alexandria University Children’s Hospital, Egypt. The study enrolled 61 individuals with DS. They were assessed for recurrent infections [including otitis media, pneumonia, upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), and gastroenteritis] and hospital admission due to infections. All patients were subjected to complete blood count and flow cytometric analysis for expression markers of T lymphocytes (CD4 and CD8).

Results

The authors found a statistically significant increase in the frequency of URTIs. In terms of the type of recurrent infection in DS, it was the highest for URTIs. A statistically significant decrease was found in CD4 in the DS patients. Nonsignificant correlations were found between CD markers and hospital admission.

Conclusion

An increase in the incidence and the recurrence of infections among children with DS, especially URTI, pneumonia and gastroenteritis, was reported in the present work. Children with DS showed decreased absolute CD4 and CD4/CD8 ratio less than normal values of similar children younger than 6 years of age. Also, normal or even increased levels of absolute CD8 were evident in children with DS.
Plasma level of deoxyribonuclease I (DNASE I) and its relationship with immune disorders in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Zedan Mohamed M. , Attia Zeinab R. , Mutawi Thuraya M. , Saleh Mona T.
Published: July 2021

Background

Nucleosomes are the key autoantigens in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Immune complexes including nucleosomes are the chief reason for tissue injury. Deoxyribonuclease 1 (DNASE I), as an endonuclease enzyme, is one of the key molecules involved in the degradation of the apoptosis pathway and its function is diminished in SLE patients.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate DNASE I concentration in the plasma of systemic lupus patients and its relationship with immune disorders.

Patients and methods

This study was carried out on 90 SLE children and 92 healthy controls matched for age and sex. Plasma DNASE I level and levels of serum antinuclear antibody and serum anti-dsDNA were evaluated by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. Complement components C3 and C4 were estimated by the turbidimetric assay.

Conclusion

The authors found a lower level of DNASE I among SLE patients than the healthy control group. In addition, our results suggested no significant association between the enzyme level and immune disorders, or any complications among systemic lupus patients.
Risk factors of ventilator-associated pneumonia in children in an Egyptian University Children’s Hospital
Authors: Noaman Ahmed
Published: July 2021

Aim

To evaluate the risk factors that contribute to the development of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in children.

Settings and design

A prospective observational study was conducted. The study was done in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) at Mansoura University Children’s Hospital, Egypt, over 1 year. The study included 154 patients.

Patients and methods

Many variables were analyzed such as demographic characteristics; previous hospital and PICU admission; drugs used such as inotropes, steroids, sedatives, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors; nutritional therapies; chronic illnesses; invasive procedures such as central line insertion; duration of mechanical ventilation (MV); and PICU stay before development of VAP.

Statistical analysis used

All patients were assessed by Pediatric Risk of Mortality Score III in the first 24 h and evaluated for VAP by daily clinical examination and by radiological and laboratory evaluation.

Results

Duration of MV and PICU stay (before development of VAP) markedly increased the incidence of VAP (P value for both was <0.001). Steroid and sedative increased the incidence of VAP significantly (P=0.001 and 0.007, respectively).

Conclusions

Use of steroids and sedatives, prolonged MV, and length of PICU stay are the main risk factors that contribute toward the increased risk of VAP development in Mansoura University Children’s Hospital intensive care.
A rare case of female hypospadias associated with congenital heart disease
Authors: Talaeepur Somaye , Arshadi Hamid , Amirzargar Hossein , Moghtaderi Mastaneh
Published: July 2021

Female hypospadias is a rare lower urogenital female anomaly. Hypospadias is primarily a congenital defect of males in which the urethra opens on the underside (ventral aspect) of the penis and is one of the most common congenital anomalies in the USA, occurring in about one of every 125 live male births. The corresponding defect in females is opening of the urethra into the vagina, and is quite rare and often associated with other genitourinary anomalies such as Cloacal malformation, female pseudo hermaphrodism, nonneurogenic neurogenic bladder and urethral duplication. Early diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion. Early treatment plays an important role in reducing the psychological and psychosocial impacts, decreases indolent kidney damages and prevents urinary incontinence. Although, interestingly, sometimes, with conservative management and close follow-up (like in our case), symptoms and signs may get better spontaneously over time. The authors report on a 4-year-old girl with hypospadias presented by hydronephrosis and recurrent urinary tract infection in infancy associated with congenital heart disease who was closely observed until spontaneous resolution of her hypospadias.
Association of tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced protein 3 gene polymorphism and systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Bakr Ashraf M. , Zedan Mohamed M. , Attia Zeinab R. , Mutawi Thuraya M. , El Shehawy Amora S.
Published: July 2021

Background

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha-induced protein 3 (TNFAIP3) is a negative regulator of the activity of NF-κB in the cells and genetic variations in TNFAIP3 may be implicated in the risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) development.

Objective

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate TNFAIP3 gene polymorphism in SLE and its relationship with autoimmune parameters.

Methods

The study was carried out on 94 children suffering from SLE and 94 healthy controls of matched age and sex. TNFAIP3 polymorphism by RT-PCR using TaqMan assay, and levels of serum antinuclear and serum anti-double-stranded DNA were measured by ELISA technique. Complement C3 and C4 were estimated by using turbidimetric assay.

Results

The results showed that there is no significant correlation of TNFAIP3 alleles or genotypes with risk of development of SLE (P>0.05). In addition, the authors did not detect any significant correlation between alleles or genotypes of TNFAIP3 with SLE clinical features and immune disorders (P>0.05).

Conclusion

The authors concluded that TNFAIP3 polymorphism is not associated with SLE risk. In addition, these results suggested no significant association between the TNFAIP3 SNP and autoimmune parameters, or any complications among SLE individuals.
Prognostic impact of the 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography/computed tomography metabolic parameters and correlation with hematological inflammatory markers in lung cancer
Authors: Goksel Sibel , Cengiz Arzu , Ozturk Hakan , Yurekli Yakup
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Hematological inflammatory markers and metabolic parameters in positron-emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) are important indicators predicting the prognosis of the disease in lung cancer as in many cancers. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between pretreatment hematological inflammatory markers and PET/CT metabolic parameters in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients and to predict the prognostic value of these parameters.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 132 patients with diagnosed NSCLC who underwent PET/CT at staging were retrospectively evaluated. Hematological parameters were obtained from the hemogram taken no more than 2 weeks prior to PET/CT. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and mean platelet volume (MPV) were recorded. Maximum standard uptake value, SUVmean, metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) were calculated. Clinical stage, tumor pathology, and overall survival were analyzed with these parameters.

Results:

NLR and PLR were significantly positively correlated with MTV and TLG (all P < 0.001), MPV was negatively correlated with TLG (P = 0.021). While TLG, MTV, NLR, and PLR were increased in advanced stage disease, MPV was decreased. Univariate Cox-regression analysis demonstrated that greater age (P = 0.015), advanced stage (P < 0.001), low MPV (P = 0.017), high NLR (P < 0.001), PLR (P < 0.001), MTV (P = 0.004), TLG (P = 0.001) values, multivariate Cox-regression analysis revealed that NLR (P < 0.001) and advanced stage (P < 0.001) were significant predictors of poor prognosis in patients with NSCLC.

Conclusions:

There were significant associations between hematological inflammatory markers and PET/CT metabolic parameters in the patients with NSCLC at the time of diagnosis. These indicators can contribute to predicting prognosis in patients with NSCLC.
Use of mHealth technology for modification of behavioural risk factors of noncommunicable diseases in primary health care settings
Authors: Banerjee Bratati
Published: July 2021

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) kill 41 million people each year, of which more than three-quarters occur in low- and middle-income countries. Four groups of diseases, namely cardiovascular diseases, cancers, respiratory diseases, and diabetes, account for over 80% of all premature NCD deaths, and four common modifiable behaviors, namely tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and the harmful use of alcohol, increase the risk of NCDs. The use of mHealth interventions for Behavior Change Communication has been shown to be effective in modifying the behavioral risk factors, through various studies. The present study proposes to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of the use of mHealth in improving diet and increasing physical activity, which are two of the major behavioral risk factors of NCDs. Research reported on this, from countries in the South-East Asian Region, during the past 20 years, will be included in this review.
Prevalence of Ocular Surface Disease in Glaucoma Patients on Long-Term Antiglaucoma Medications
Authors: Abraham Emem G. , Udofia Inyene E.
Published: July 2021

Objective:

Long term use of preservative-containing medications has been associated with the development or worsening of ocular surface disease (OSD). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of OSD in glaucoma patients on long-term antiglaucoma medications.

Methods:

A cross-sectional hospital-based study was carried out on 208 respondents using Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, tear break-up time (TBUT), and Schirmer 1 test. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Science version 22.0 (SPSS Inc, Chicago, Illinois, USA).

Results:

The prevalence of OSD was higher in those on antiglaucoma medication using all modalities of assessment. Prevalence of OSD in glaucoma patients on antiglaucoma drugs was highest using TBUT- 69.2% (P = 0.031), with OSDI questionnaire it was 62.5% (P = 0.005), and it was lowest for Schirmer 1 test - 59.6%. For those nonglaucoma cases/not on any antiglaucoma medication, the prevalence using TBUT was 42.3%, using OSDI it was 16.3%, and with Schirmer 1 test it was 25.9%. Prevalence also increased with the increase in the number of eye drops from 1 to 2 drops/day using all modalities of assessment (P = 0.004). Using multivariate analysis, adjusting for sex and age, subjects who instilled 2 drops/day had four to five times the odds of having OSD.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of OSD is higher in patients with glaucoma on topical antiglaucoma medication than the nonglaucoma population studied and this increased with the increase in number of drops per day.
Exploring the Relationship Between Central Corneal Thickness and Intraocular Pressure Among Nonglaucoma Patients in a General Ophthalmology Clinic, South East Nigeria
Authors: Mbatuegwu Adaku I. , Achigbu Ebere O. , Mbatuegwu Chidi U. , Nkwogu Florence U. , Omoti Afekhide E.
Published: July 2021

Context:

Glaucoma is an important cause of irreversible blindness and visual impairment in Nigeria. Studies have shown that intraocular pressure (IOP) is the only modifiable risk factor for glaucoma. The true IOP of an individual, in turn, is determined by the central corneal thickness (CCT).

Aim:

The aim of the study is to describe the relationship between IOP and CCT among nonglaucoma patients in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.

Methods:

This was a hospital-based, cross-sectional, analytical study done on nonglaucomatous patients aged 18 years and above. A comprehensive ocular examination was carried out for all participants and IOP was measured between 8 am and 12 noon to reduce the effect of diurnal variations.

Results:

Four hundred and twenty-two subjects with a mean age of 40.34 ± 14.468 years and a female to male ratio of 1.7:1 participated. The mean measured IOP was 16.77 ± 4.37 mmHg, and the mean CCT was 533.05 ± 33.92 μm. The mean corrected IOP was 17.61 ± 4.57 mmHg indicating a pattern of falsely low IOP. There was a positive, statistically significant correlation between IOP and CCT (P = 0.045).

Conclusion:

There was a positive correlation between IOP and CCT with the resultant effect that thin corneas presented with falsely low IOP and thick corneas with falsely high IOP. Routine CCT measurement in addition to IOP measurement should be done on every patient.