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musculoskeletal involvement</title> <meta name="description" content="Search results for: musculoskeletal involvement"> <meta name="keywords" content="musculoskeletal involvement"> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1, minimum-scale=1, maximum-scale=1, user-scalable=no"> <meta charset="utf-8"> <link href="https://cdn.waset.org/favicon.ico" type="image/x-icon" rel="shortcut icon"> <link href="https://cdn.waset.org/static/plugins/bootstrap-4.2.1/css/bootstrap.min.css" rel="stylesheet"> <link href="https://cdn.waset.org/static/plugins/fontawesome/css/all.min.css" rel="stylesheet"> <link href="https://cdn.waset.org/static/css/site.css?v=150220211555" rel="stylesheet"> </head> <body> <header> <div class="container"> <nav class="navbar navbar-expand-lg navbar-light"> <a class="navbar-brand" href="https://waset.org"> <img src="https://cdn.waset.org/static/images/wasetc.png" alt="Open Science Research Excellence" title="Open Science Research Excellence" /> </a> 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action="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search"> <div id="custom-search-input"> <div class="input-group"> <i class="fas fa-search"></i> <input type="text" class="search-query" name="q" placeholder="Author, Title, Abstract, Keywords" value="musculoskeletal involvement"> <input type="submit" class="btn_search" value="Search"> </div> </div> </form> </div> </div> <div class="row mt-3"> <div class="col-sm-3"> <div class="card"> <div class="card-body"><strong>Commenced</strong> in January 2007</div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-3"> <div class="card"> <div class="card-body"><strong>Frequency:</strong> Monthly</div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-3"> <div class="card"> <div class="card-body"><strong>Edition:</strong> International</div> </div> </div> <div class="col-sm-3"> <div class="card"> <div class="card-body"><strong>Paper Count:</strong> 1351</div> </div> </div> </div> <h1 class="mt-3 mb-3 text-center" style="font-size:1.6rem;">Search results for: musculoskeletal involvement</h1> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">31</span> Targeting Basic Leucine Zipper Transcription Factor ATF-Like Mediated Immune Cells Regulation to Reduce Crohn’s Disease Fistula Incidence</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Mohammadjavad%20Sotoudeheian">Mohammadjavad Sotoudeheian</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Soroush%20Nematollahi"> Soroush Nematollahi</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic gastrointestinal segment inflammation encompassing immune dysregulation in a genetically susceptible individual in response to the environmental triggers and interaction between the microbiome and immune system. Uncontrolled inflammation leads to long-term complications, including fibrotic strictures and enteric fistulae. Increased production of Th1 and Th17-cell cytokines and defects in T-regulatory cells have been associated with CD. Th17-cells are essential for protection against extracellular pathogens, but their atypical activity can cause autoimmunity. Intrinsic defects in the control of programmed cell death in the mucosal T-cell compartment are strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of CD. The apoptosis defect in mucosal T-cells in CD has been endorsed as an imbalance of the Bcl-2 and the Bax. The immune system encounters foreign antigens through microbial colonization of mucosal surfaces or infections. In addition, FOSL downregulated IL-26 expression, a cytokine that marks inflammatory Th17-populations in patients suffering from CD. Furthermore, the expression of IL-23 is associated with the transcription factor primary leucine zipper transcription factor ATF-like (Batf). Batf-deficiency demonstrated the crucial role of Batf in colitis development. Batf and IL-23 mediate their effects by inducing IL-6 production. Strong association of IL-23R, Stat3, and Stat4 with IBD susceptibility point to a critical involvement of T-cells. IL-23R levels in transfer fistula were dependent on the AP-1 transcription factor JunB that additionally controlled levels of RORγt by facilitating DNA binding of Batf. T lymphocytes lacking JunB failed to induce IL-23- and Th17-mediated experimental colitis highlighting the relevance of JunB for the IL-23/ Th17 pathway. The absence of T-bet causes unrestrained Th17-cell differentiation. T-cells are central parts of immune-mediated colon fistula. Especially Th17-cells were highly prevalent in inflamed IBD tissues, as RORγt is effective in preventing colitis. Intraepithelial lymphocytes (IEL) contain unique T-cell subsets, including cells expressing RORγt. Increased activated Th17 and decreased T-regulatory cells in inflamed intestinal tissues had been seen. T-cells differentiate in response to many cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-23, and TGF-β, into Th17-cells, a process which is critically dependent on the Batf. IL-23 promotes Th17-cell in the colon. Batf manages the generation of IL-23 induced IL-23R+ Th17-cells. Batf is necessary for TGF-β/IL-6-induced Th17-polarization. Batf-expressing T-cells are the core of T-cell-mediated colitis. The human-specific parts of three AP-1 transcription factors, FOSL1, FOSL2, and BATF, are essential during the early stages of Th17 differentiation. BATF supports the Th17 lineage. FOSL1, FOSL2, and BATF make possession of regulatory loci of genes in the Th17 lineage cascade. The AP1 transcription factor Batf is identified to control intestinal inflammation and seems to regulate pathways within lymphocytes, which could theoretically control the expression of several genes. It shows central regulatory properties over Th17-cell development and is intensely upregulated within IBD-affected tissues. Here, we demonstrated that targeting Batf in IBD appears as a therapeutic approach that reduces colitogenic T-cell activities during fistula formation while aiming to affect inflammation in the gut epithelial cells. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=immune%20system" title="immune system">immune system</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Crohn%E2%80%99s%20Disease" title=" Crohn’s Disease"> Crohn’s Disease</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=BATF" title=" BATF"> BATF</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=T%20helper%20cells" title=" T helper cells"> T helper cells</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Bcl" title=" Bcl"> Bcl</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=interleukin" title=" interleukin"> interleukin</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=FOSL" title=" FOSL"> FOSL</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/151227/targeting-basic-leucine-zipper-transcription-factor-atf-like-mediated-immune-cells-regulation-to-reduce-crohns-disease-fistula-incidence" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/151227.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">145</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">30</span> Facilitating Primary Care Practitioners to Improve Outcomes for People With Oropharyngeal Dysphagia Living in the Community: An Ongoing Realist Review</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Caroline%20Smith">Caroline Smith</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Professor%20Debi%20Bhattacharya"> Professor Debi Bhattacharya</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Sion%20Scott"> Sion Scott</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Introduction: Oropharyngeal Dysphagia (OD) effects around 15% of older people, however it is often unrecognised and under diagnosed until they are hospitalised. There is a need for primary care healthcare practitioners (HCPs) to assume a proactive role in identifying and managing OD to prevent adverse outcomes such as aspiration pneumonia. Understanding the determinants of primary care HCPs undertaking this new behaviour provides the intervention targets for addressing. This realist review, underpinned by the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), aims to synthesise relevant literature and develop programme theories to understand what interventions work, how they work and under what circumstances to facilitate HCPs to prevent harm from OD. Combining realist methodology with behavioural science will permit conceptualisation of intervention components as theoretical behavioural constructs, thus informing the design of a future behaviour change intervention. Furthermore, through the TDF’s linkage to a taxonomy of behaviour change techniques, we will identify corresponding behaviour change techniques to include in this intervention. Methods & analysis: We are following the five steps for undertaking a realist review: 1) clarify the scope 2) Literature search 3) appraise and extract data 4) evidence synthesis 5) evaluation. We have searched Medline, Google scholar, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, AMED, Scopus and PsycINFO databases. We are obtaining additional evidence through grey literature, snowball sampling, lateral searching and consulting the stakeholder group. Literature is being screened, evaluated and synthesised in Excel and Nvivo. We will appraise evidence in relation to its relevance and rigour. Data will be extracted and synthesised according to its relation to Initial programme theories (IPTs). IPTs were constructed after the preliminary literature search, informed by the TDF and with input from a stakeholder group of patient and public involvement advisors, general practitioners, speech and language therapists, geriatricians and pharmacists. We will follow the Realist and Meta-narrative Evidence Syntheses: Evolving Standards (RAMESES) quality and publication standards to report study results. Results: In this ongoing review our search has identified 1417 manuscripts with approximately 20% progressing to full text screening. We inductively generated 10 IPTs that hypothesise practitioners require: the knowledge to spot the signs and symptoms of OD; the skills to provide initial advice and support; and access to resources in their working environment to support them conducting these new behaviours. We mapped the 10 IPTs to 8 TDF domains and then generated a further 12 IPTs deductively using domain definitions to fulfil the remaining 6 TDF domains. Deductively generated IPTs broadened our thinking to consider domains such as ‘Emotion,’ ‘Optimism’ and ‘Social Influence’, e.g. If practitioners perceive that patients, carers and relatives expect initial advice and support, then they will be more likely to provide this, because they will feel obligated to do so. After prioritisation with stakeholders using a modified nominal group technique approach, a maximum of 10 IPTs will progress to test against the literature. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=behaviour%20change" title="behaviour change">behaviour change</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=deglutition%20disorders" title=" deglutition disorders"> deglutition disorders</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=primary%20healthcare" title=" primary healthcare"> primary healthcare</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=realist%20review" title=" realist review"> realist review</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/154062/facilitating-primary-care-practitioners-to-improve-outcomes-for-people-with-oropharyngeal-dysphagia-living-in-the-community-an-ongoing-realist-review" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/154062.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">85</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">29</span> Recovery in Serious Mental Illness: Perception of Health Care Trainees in Morocco</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Sophia%20El%20Ouazzani">Sophia El Ouazzani</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Amer%20M.%20Burhan"> Amer M. Burhan</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Mary%20Wickenden"> Mary Wickenden</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Background: Despite improvements in recent years, the Moroccan mental healthcare system still face disparity between available resources and the current population’sneeds. The societal stigma, and limited economic, political, and human resources are all factors in shaping the psychiatric system, exacerbating the discontinuity of services for users after discharged from the hospital. As a result, limited opportunities for social inclusion and meaningful community engagement undermines human rights and recovery potential for people with mental health problems, especially those with psychiatric disabilities from serious mental illness (SMI). Recovery-oriented practice, such as mental health rehabilitation, addresses the complex needs of patients with SMI and support their community inclusion. The cultural acceptability of recovery-oriented practice is an important notion to consider for a successful implementation. Exploring the extent to which recovery-oriented practices are used in Morocco is a necessary first step to assess the cultural relevance of such a practice model. Aims: This study aims to explore understanding and knowledge, perception, and perspective about core concepts in mental health rehabilitation, including psychiatric disability, recovery, and engagement in meaningful occupations for people with SMI in Morocco. Methods: A pilot qualitative study was undertaken. Data was collected via semi-structured interviews and focusgroup discussions with healthcare professional students. Questions were organised around the following themes: 1) students’ perceptions, understanding, and expectations around concepts such as SMI, mental health disability, and recovery, and 2) changes in their views and expectations after starting their professional training. Further analysis of students’ perspectives on the concept of ‘meaningful occupation’ and how is this viewed within the context of the research questions was done. The data was extracted using an inductive thematic analysis approach. This is a pilot stage of a doctoral project, further data will be collected and analysed until saturation is reached. Results: A total of eight students were included in this study which included occupational therapy and mental health nursing students receiving training in Morocco. The following themes emerged as influencing students’ perceptions and views around the main concepts: 1) Stigma and discrimination, 2) Fatalism and low expectations, 3) Gendered perceptions, 4) Religious causation, 5) Family involvement, 6) Professional background, 7) Inaccessibility of services and treatment. Discussion/Contribution: Preliminary analysis of the data suggests that students’ perceptions changed after gaining more clinical experiences and being exposed to people with psychiatric disabilities. Prior to their training, stigma shaped greatly how they viewed people with SMI. The fear, misunderstanding, and shame around SMI and their functional capacities may contribute to people with SMI being stigmatizedand marginalised from their family and their community. Religious causations associated to SMIsare understood as further deepening the social stigma around psychiatric disability. Perceptions are influenced by gender, with women being doubly discriminated against in relation to recovery opportunities. Therapeutic pessimism seems to persist amongst students and within the mental healthcare system in general and regarding the recovery potential and opportunities for people with SMI. The limited resources, fatalism, and stigma all contribute to the low expectations for recovery and community inclusion. Implications and future directions will be discussed. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=disability" title="disability">disability</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=mental%20health%20rehabilitation" title=" mental health rehabilitation"> mental health rehabilitation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=recovery" title=" recovery"> recovery</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=serious%20mental%20illness" title=" serious mental illness"> serious mental illness</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=transcultural%20psychiatry" title=" transcultural psychiatry"> transcultural psychiatry</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/144651/recovery-in-serious-mental-illness-perception-of-health-care-trainees-in-morocco" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/144651.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">143</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">28</span> National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Reaccreditation, the Challenges and Advantages: A Qualitative Case Study</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Narottam%20Puri">Narottam Puri</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Gurvinder%20Kaur"> Gurvinder Kaur</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Background: The National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) is India’s apex standard setting accrediting body in health care which evaluates and accredits healthcare organizations. NABH requires accredited organizations to become reaccredited every three years. It is often though that once the initial accreditation is complete, the foundation is set and reaccreditation is a much simpler process. Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, a part of the Fortis Healthcare group is a 262 bed, multi-specialty tertiary care hospital. The hospital was successfully accredited in the year 2012. On completion of its first cycle, the hospital underwent a reaccreditation assessment in the year 2015. This paper aims to gain a better understanding of the challenges that accredited hospitals face when preparing for a renewal of their accreditations. Methods: The study was conducted using a cross-sectional mixed methods approach; semi-structured interviews were conducted with senior leadership team and staff members including doctors and nurses. Documents collated by the QA team while preparing for the re-assessment like the data on quality indicators: the method of collection, analysis, trending, continual incremental improvements made over time, minutes of the meetings, amendments made to the existing policies and new policies drafted was reviewed to understand the challenges. Results: The senior leadership had a concern about the cost of accreditation and its impact on the quality of health care services considering the staff effort and time consumed it. The management was however in favor of continuing with the accreditation since it offered competitive advantage, strengthened community confidence besides better pay rates from the payors. The clinicians regarded it as an increased non-clinical workload. Doctors felt accountable within a professional framework, to themselves, the patient and family, their peers and to their profession; but not to accreditation bodies and raised concerns on how the quality indicators were measured. The departmental leaders had a positive perception of accreditation. They agreed that it ensured high standards of care and improved management of their functional areas. However, they were reluctant in sparing people for the QA activities due to staffing issues. With staff turnover, a lot of work was lost as sticky knowledge and had to be redone. Listing the continual quality improvement initiatives over the last 3 years was a challenge in itself. Conclusion: The success of any quality assurance reaccreditation program depends almost entirely on the commitment and interest of the administrators, nurses, paramedical staff, and clinicians. The leader of the Quality Movement is critical in propelling and building momentum. Leaders need to recognize skepticism and resistance and consider ways in which staff can become positively engaged. Involvement of all the functional owners is the start point towards building ownership and accountability for standards compliance. Creativity plays a very valuable role. Communication by Mail Series, WhatsApp groups, Quizzes, Events, and any and every form helps. Leaders must be able to generate interest and commitment without burdening clinical and administrative staff with an activity they neither understand nor believe in. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=NABH" title="NABH">NABH</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=reaccreditation" title=" reaccreditation"> reaccreditation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=quality%20assurance" title=" quality assurance"> quality assurance</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=quality%20indicators" title=" quality indicators"> quality indicators</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/54828/national-accreditation-board-for-hospitals-and-healthcare-reaccreditation-the-challenges-and-advantages-a-qualitative-case-study" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/54828.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">224</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">27</span> A Computational Investigation of Potential Drugs for Cholesterol Regulation to Treat Alzheimer’s Disease</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Marina%20Passero">Marina Passero</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Tianhua%20Zhai"> Tianhua Zhai</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Zuyi%20%28Jacky%29%20Huang"> Zuyi (Jacky) Huang</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Alzheimer’s disease has become a major public health issue, as indicated by the increasing populations of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease. After decades of extensive research in Alzheimer’s disease, only seven drugs have been approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Five of these drugs were designed to treat the dementia symptoms, and only two drugs (i.e., Aducanumab and Lecanemab) target the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, especially the accumulation of amyloid-b plaques. However, controversial comments were raised for the accelerated approvals of either Aducanumab or Lecanemab, especially with concerns on safety and side effects of these two drugs. There is still an urgent need for further drug discovery to target the biological processes involved in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Excessive cholesterol has been found to accumulate in the brain of those with Alzheimer’s disease. Cholesterol can be synthesized in both the blood and the brain, but the majority of biosynthesis in the adult brain takes place in astrocytes and is then transported to the neurons via ApoE. The blood brain barrier separates cholesterol metabolism in the brain from the rest of the body. Various proteins contribute to the metabolism of cholesterol in the brain, which offer potential targets for Alzheimer’s treatment. In the astrocytes, SREBP cleavage-activating protein (SCAP) binds to Sterol Regulatory Element-binding Protein 2 (SREBP2) in order to transport the complex from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi apparatus. Cholesterol is secreted out of the astrocytes by ATP-Binding Cassette A1 (ABCA1) transporter. Lipoprotein receptors such as triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) internalize cholesterol into the microglia, while lipoprotein receptors such as Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) internalize cholesterol into the neuron. Cytochrome P450 Family 46 Subfamily A Member 1 (CYP46A1) converts excess cholesterol to 24S-hydroxycholesterol (24S-OHC). Cholesterol has been approved for its direct effect on the production of amyloid-beta and tau proteins. The addition of cholesterol to the brain promotes the activity of beta-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), secretase, and amyloid precursor protein (APP), which all aid in amyloid-beta production. The reduction of cholesterol esters in the brain have been found to reduce phosphorylated tau levels in mice. In this work, a computational pipeline was developed to identify the protein targets involved in cholesterol regulation in brain and further to identify chemical compounds as the inhibitors of a selected protein target. Since extensive evidence shows the strong correlation between brain cholesterol regulation and Alzheimer’s disease, a detailed literature review on genes or pathways related to the brain cholesterol synthesis and regulation was first conducted in this work. An interaction network was then built for those genes so that the top gene targets were identified. The involvement of these genes in Alzheimer’s disease progression was discussed, which was followed by the investigation of existing clinical trials for those targets. A ligand-protein docking program was finally developed to screen 1.5 million chemical compounds for the selected protein target. A machine learning program was developed to evaluate and predict the binding interaction between chemical compounds and the protein target. The results from this work pave the way for further drug discovery to regulate brain cholesterol to combat Alzheimer’s disease. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Alzheimer%E2%80%99s%20disease" title="Alzheimer’s disease">Alzheimer’s disease</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=drug%20discovery" title=" drug discovery"> drug discovery</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=ligand-protein%20docking" title=" ligand-protein docking"> ligand-protein docking</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=gene-network%20analysis" title=" gene-network analysis"> gene-network analysis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cholesterol%20regulation" title=" cholesterol regulation"> cholesterol regulation</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/162391/a-computational-investigation-of-potential-drugs-for-cholesterol-regulation-to-treat-alzheimers-disease" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/162391.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">74</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">26</span> Integrating Evidence Into Health Policy: Navigating Cross-Sector and Interdisciplinary Collaboration </h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Tessa%20Heeren">Tessa Heeren</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The following proposal pertains to the complex process of successfully implementing health policies that are based on public health research. A systematic review was conducted by myself and faculty at the Cluj School of Public Health in Romania. The reviewed articles covered a wide range of topics, such as barriers and facilitators to multi-sector collaboration, differences in professional cultures, and systemic obstacles. The reviewed literature identified communication, collaboration, user-friendly dissemination, and documentation of processes in the execution of applied research as important themes for the promotion of evidence in the public health decision-making process. This proposal fits into the Academy Health National Health Policy conference because it identifies and examines differences between the worlds of research and politics. Implications and new insights for federal and/or state health policy: Recommendations made based on the findings of this research include using politically relevant levers to promote research (e.g. campaign donors, lobbies, established parties, etc.), modernizing dissemination practices, and reforms in which the involvement of external stakeholders is facilitated without relying on invitations from individual policy makers. Description of how evidence and/or data was or could be used: The reviewed articles illustrated shortcomings and areas for improvement in policy research processes and collaborative development. In general, the evidence base in the field of integrating research into policy lacks critical details of the actual process of developing evidence based policy. This shortcoming in logistical details creates a barrier for potential replication of collaborative efforts described in studies. Potential impact of the presentation for health policy: The reviewed articles focused on identifying barriers and facilitators that arise in cross sector collaboration, rather than the process and impact of integrating evidence into policy. In addition, the type of evidence used in policy was rarely specified, and widely varying interpretations of the definition of evidence complicated overall conclusions. Background: Using evidence to inform public health decision making processes has been proven effective; however, it is not clear how research is applied in practice. Aims: The objectives of the current study were to assess the extent to which evidence is used in public health decision-making process. Methods: To identify eligible studies, seven bibliographic databases, specifically, PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Web of Science, ClinicalKey, Health and Safety Science Abstract were screened (search dates: 1990 – September 2015); a general internet search was also conducted. Primary research and systematic reviews about the use of evidence in public health policy in Europe were included. The studies considered for inclusion were assessed by two reviewers, along with extracted data on objective, methods, population, and results. Data were synthetized as a narrative review. Results: Of 2564 articles initially identified, 2525 titles and abstracts were screened. Ultimately, 30 articles fit the research criteria by describing how or why evidence is used/not used in public health policy. The majority of included studies involved interviews and surveys (N=17). Study participants were policy makers, health care professionals, researchers, community members, service users, experts in public health. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cross-sector" title="cross-sector">cross-sector</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=dissemination" title=" dissemination"> dissemination</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=health%20policy" title=" health policy"> health policy</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=policy%20implementation" title=" policy implementation"> policy implementation</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/60398/integrating-evidence-into-health-policy-navigating-cross-sector-and-interdisciplinary-collaboration" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/60398.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">225</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">25</span> Leveraging Information for Building Supply Chain Competitiveness</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Deepika%20Joshi">Deepika Joshi</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Operations in automotive industry rely greatly on information shared between Supply Chain (SC) partners. This leads to efficient and effective management of SC activity. Automotive sector in India is growing at 14.2 percent per annum and has huge economic importance. We find that no study has been carried out on the role of information sharing in SC management of Indian automotive manufacturers. Considering this research gap, the present study is planned to establish the significance of information sharing in Indian auto-component supply chain activity. An empirical research was conducted for large scale auto component manufacturers from India. Twenty four Supply Chain Performance Indicators (SCPIs) were collected from existing literature. These elements belong to eight diverse but internally related areas of SC management viz., demand management, cost, technology, delivery, quality, flexibility, buyer-supplier relationship, and operational factors. A pair-wise comparison and an open ended questionnaire were designed using these twenty four SCPIs. The questionnaire was then administered among managerial level employees of twenty-five auto-component manufacturing firms. Analytic Network Process (ANP) technique was used to analyze the response of pair-wise questionnaire. Finally, twenty-five priority indexes are developed, one for each respondent. These were averaged to generate an industry specific priority index. The open-ended questions depicted strategies related to information sharing between buyers and suppliers and their influence on supply chain performance. Results show that the impact of information sharing on certain performance indicators is relatively greater than their corresponding variables. For example, flexibility, delivery, demand and cost related elements have massive impact on information sharing. Technology is relatively less influenced by information sharing but it immensely influence the quality of information shared. Responses obtained from managers reveal that timely and accurate information sharing lowers the cost, increases flexibility and on-time delivery of auto parts, therefore, enhancing the competitiveness of Indian automotive industry. Any flaw in dissemination of information can disturb the cycle time of both the parties and thus increases the opportunity cost. Due to supplier’s involvement in decisions related to design of auto parts, quality conformance is found to improve, leading to reduction in rejection rate. Similarly, mutual commitment to share right information at right time between all levels of SC enhances trust level. SC partners share information to perform comprehensive quality planning to ingrain total quality management. This study contributes to operations management literature which faces scarcity of empirical examination on this subject. It views information sharing as a building block which firms can promote and evolve to leverage the operational capability of all SC members. It will provide insights for Indian managers and researchers as every market is unique and suppliers and buyers are driven by local laws, industry status and future vision. While major emphasis in this paper is given to SC operations happening between domestic partners, placing more focus on international SC can bring in distinguished results. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Indian%20auto%20component%20industry" title="Indian auto component industry">Indian auto component industry</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=information%20sharing" title=" information sharing"> information sharing</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=operations%20management" title=" operations management"> operations management</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=supply%20chain%20performance%20indicators" title=" supply chain performance indicators"> supply chain performance indicators</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/29323/leveraging-information-for-building-supply-chain-competitiveness" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/29323.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">550</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">24</span> Effect of Cerebellar High Frequency rTMS on the Balance of Multiple Sclerosis Patients with Ataxia</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Shereen%20Ismail%20Fawaz">Shereen Ismail Fawaz</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Shin-Ichi%20Izumi"> Shin-Ichi Izumi</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Nouran%20Mohamed%20Salah"> Nouran Mohamed Salah</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Heba%20G.%20Saber"> Heba G. Saber</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Ibrahim%20Mohamed%20Roushdi"> Ibrahim Mohamed Roushdi</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, inflammatory, mainly demyelinating disease of the central nervous system, more common in young adults. Cerebellar involvement is one of the most disabling lesions in MS and is usually a sign of disease progression. It plays a major role in the planning, initiation, and organization of movement via its influence on the motor cortex and corticospinal outputs. Therefore, it contributes to controlling movement, motor adaptation, and motor learning, in addition to its vast connections with other major pathways controlling balance, such as the cerebellopropriospinal pathways and cerebellovestibular pathways. Hence, trying to stimulate the cerebellum by facilitatory protocols will add to our motor control and balance function. Non-invasive brain stimulation, both repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), has recently emerged as effective neuromodulators to influence motor and nonmotor functions of the brain. Anodal tDCS has been shown to improve motor skill learning and motor performance beyond the training period. Similarly, rTMS, when used at high frequency (>5 Hz), has a facilitatory effect on the motor cortex. Objective: Our aim was to determine the effect of high-frequency rTMS over the cerebellum in improving balance and functional ambulation of multiple sclerosis patients with Ataxia. Patients and methods: This was a randomized single-blinded placebo-controlled prospective trial on 40 patients. The active group (N=20) received real rTMS sessions, and the control group (N=20) received Sham rTMS using a placebo program designed for this treatment. Both groups received 12 sessions of high-frequency rTMS over the cerebellum, followed by an intensive exercise training program. Sessions were given three times per week for four weeks. The active group protocol had a frequency of 10 Hz rTMS over the cerebellar vermis, work period 5S, number of trains 25, and intertrain interval 25s. The total number of pulses was 1250 pulses per session. The control group received Sham rTMS using a placebo program designed for this treatment. Both groups of patients received an intensive exercise program, which included generalized strengthening exercises, endurance and aerobic training, trunk abdominal exercises, generalized balance training exercises, and task-oriented training such as Boxing. As a primary outcome measure the Modified ICARS was used. Static Posturography was done with: Patients were tested both with open and closed eyes. Secondary outcome measures included the expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and 8 Meter walk test (8MWT). Results: The active group showed significant improvements in all the functional scales, modified ICARS, EDSS, and 8-meter walk test, in addition to significant differences in static Posturography with open eyes, while the control group did not show such differences. Conclusion: Cerebellar high-frequency rTMS could be effective in the functional improvement of balance in MS patients with ataxia. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=brain%20neuromodulation" title="brain neuromodulation">brain neuromodulation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=high%20frequency%20rTMS" title=" high frequency rTMS"> high frequency rTMS</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cerebellar%20stimulation" title=" cerebellar stimulation"> cerebellar stimulation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=multiple%20sclerosis" title=" multiple sclerosis"> multiple sclerosis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=balance%20rehabilitation" title=" balance rehabilitation"> balance rehabilitation</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/171813/effect-of-cerebellar-high-frequency-rtms-on-the-balance-of-multiple-sclerosis-patients-with-ataxia" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/171813.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">90</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">23</span> Post COVID-19 Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome Masquerading as an Acute Abdomen</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Ali%20Baker">Ali Baker</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Russel%20Krawitz"> Russel Krawitz</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> This paper describes a rare occurrence where a potentially fatal complication of COVID-19 infection (MIS-A) was misdiagnosed as an acute abdomen. As most patients with this syndrome present with fever and gastrointestinal symptoms, they may inadvertently fall under the care of the surgical unit. However, unusual imaging findings and a poor response to anti-microbial therapy should prompt clinicians to suspect a non-surgical etiology. More than half of MIS-A patients require ICU admission and vasopressor support. Prompt referral to a physician is key, as the cornerstone of treatment is IVIG and corticosteroid therapy. A 32 year old woman presented with right sided abdominal pain and fevers. She had also contracted COVID-19 two months earlier. Abdominal examination revealed generalised right sided tenderness. The patient had raised inflammatory markers, but other blood tests were unremarkable. CT scan revealed extensive lymphadenopathy along the ileocolic chain. The patient proved to be a diagnostic dilemma. She was reviewed by several surgical consultants and discussed with several inpatient teams. Although IV antibiotics were commenced, the right sided abdominal pain, and fevers persisted. Pan-culture returned negative. A mild cholestatic derangement developed. On day 5, the patient underwent preparation for colonoscopy to assess for a potential intraluminal etiology. The following day, the patient developed sinus tachycardia and hypotension that was refractory to fluid resuscitation. That patient was transferred to ICU and required vasopressor support. Repeat CT showed peri-portal edema and a thickened gallbladder wall. On re-examination, the patient was Murphy’s sign positive. Biliary ultrasound was equivocal for cholecystitis. The patient was planned for diagnostic laparoscopy. The following morning, a marked rise in cardiac troponin was discovered, and a follow-up echocardiogram revealed moderate to severe global systolic dysfunction. The impression was post-COVID MIS with myocardial involvement. IVIG and Methylprednisolone infusions were commenced. The patient had a great response. Vasopressor support was weaned, and the patient was discharged from ICU. The patient continued to improve clinically with oral prednisolone, and was discharged on day 17. Although MIS following COVID-19 infection is well-described syndrome in children, only recently has it come to light that it can occur in adults. The exact incidence is unknown, but it is thought to be rare. A recent systematic review found only 221 cases of MIS-A, which could be included for analysis. Symptoms vary, but the most frequent include fever, gastrointestinal, and mucocutaneous. Many patients progress to multi-organ failure and require vasopressor support. 7% succumb to the illness. The pathophysiology of MIS is only partly understood. It shares similarities with Kawasaki disease, macrophage activation syndrome, and cytokine release syndrome. Importantly, by definition, the patient must have an absence of severe respiratory symptoms. It is thought to be due to a dysregulated immune response to the virus. Potential mechanisms include reduced levels of neutralising antibodies and autoreactive antibodies that promote inflammation. Further research into MIS-A is needed. Although rare, this potentially fatal syndrome should be considered in the unwell surgical patient who has recently contracted COVID-19 and poses a diagnostic dilemma. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=acute-abdomen" title="acute-abdomen">acute-abdomen</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=MIS" title=" MIS"> MIS</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=COVID-19" title=" COVID-19"> COVID-19</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=ICU" title=" ICU"> ICU</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/148999/post-covid-19-multi-system-inflammatory-syndrome-masquerading-as-an-acute-abdomen" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/148999.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">123</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">22</span> Traditional Wisdom of Indigenous Vernacular Architecture as Tool for Climate Resilience Among PVTG Indigenous Communities in Jharkhand, India</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Ankush">Ankush</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Harshit%20Sosan%20Lakra"> Harshit Sosan Lakra</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Rachita%20Kuthial"> Rachita Kuthial</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Climate change poses significant challenges to vulnerable communities, particularly indigenous populations in ecologically sensitive regions. Jharkhand, located in the heart of India, is home to several indigenous communities, including the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). The Indigenous architecture of the region functions as a significant reservoir of climate adaptation wisdom. It explores the architectural analysis encompassing the construction materials, construction techniques, design principles, climate responsiveness, cultural relevance, adaptation, integration with the environment and traditional wisdom that has evolved through generations, rooted in cultural and socioeconomic traditions, and has allowed these communities to thrive in a variety of climatic zones, including hot and dry, humid, and hilly terrains to withstand the test of time. Despite their historical resilience to adverse climatic conditions, PVTG tribal communities face new and amplified challenges due to the accelerating pace of climate change. There is a significant research void that exists in assimilating their traditional practices and local wisdom into contemporary climate resilience initiatives. Most of the studies place emphasis on technologically advanced solutions, often ignoring the invaluable Indigenous Local knowledge that can complement and enhance these efforts. This research gap highlights the need to bridge the disconnect between indigenous knowledge and contemporary climate adaptation strategies. The study aims to explore and leverage indigenous knowledge of vernacular architecture as a strategic tool for enhancing climatic resilience among PVTGs of the region. The first objective is to understand the traditional wisdom of vernacular architecture by analyzing and documenting distinct architectural practices and cultural significance of PVTG communities, emphasizing construction techniques, materials and spatial planning. The second objective is to develop culturally sensitive climatic resilience strategies based on findings of vernacular architecture by employing a multidisciplinary research approach that encompasses ethnographic fieldwork climate data assessment considering multiple variables such as temperature variations, precipitation patterns, extreme weather events and climate change reports. This will be a tailor-made solution integrating indigenous knowledge with modern technology and sustainable practices. With the involvement of indigenous communities in the process, the research aims to ensure that the developed strategies are practical, culturally appropriate, and accepted. To foster long-term resilience against the global issue of climate change, we can bridge the gap between present needs and future aspirations with Traditional wisdom, offering sustainable solutions that will empower PVTG communities. Moreover, the study emphasizes the significance of preserving and reviving traditional Architectural wisdom for enhancing climatic resilience. It also highlights the need for cooperative endeavors of communities, stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers to encourage integrating traditional Knowledge into Modern sustainable design methods. Through these efforts, this research will contribute not only to the well-being of PVTG communities but also to the broader global effort to build a more resilient and sustainable future. Also, the Indigenous communities like PVTG in the state of Jharkhand can achieve climatic resilience while respecting and safeguarding the cultural heritage and peculiar characteristics of its native population. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=vernacular%20architecture" title="vernacular architecture">vernacular architecture</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=climate%20change" title=" climate change"> climate change</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=resilience" title=" resilience"> resilience</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=PVTGs" title=" PVTGs"> PVTGs</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Jharkhand" title=" Jharkhand"> Jharkhand</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=indigenous%20people" title=" indigenous people"> indigenous people</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=India" title=" India"> India</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/173876/traditional-wisdom-of-indigenous-vernacular-architecture-as-tool-for-climate-resilience-among-pvtg-indigenous-communities-in-jharkhand-india" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/173876.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">74</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">21</span> Clinico-pathological Study of Xeroderma Pigmentosa: A Case Series of Eight Cases</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Kakali%20Roy">Kakali Roy</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Sahana%20P.%20Raju"> Sahana P. Raju</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Subhra%20Dhar"> Subhra Dhar</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Sandipan%20Dhar"> Sandipan Dhar</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Introduction: Xeroderma pigmentosa (XP) is a rare inherited (autosomal recessive) disease resulting from impairment in DNA repair that involves recognition and repair of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) induced DNA damage in the nucleotide excision repair pathway. Which results in increased photosensitivity, UVR induced damage to skin and eye, increased susceptibility of skin and ocular cancer, and progressive neurodegeneration in some patients. XP is present worldwide, with higher incidence in areas having frequent consanguinity. Being extremely rare, there is limited literature on XP and associated complications. Here, the clinico-pathological experience (spectrum of clinical presentation, histopathological findings of malignant skin lesions, and progression) of managing 8 cases of XP is presented. Methodology: A retrospective study was conducted in a pediatric tertiary care hospital in eastern India during a ten-year period from 2013 to 2022. A clinical diagnosis was made based on severe sun burn or premature photo-aging and/or onset of cutaneous malignancies at early age (1st decade) in background of consanguinity and autosomal recessive inheritance pattern in family. Results: The mean age of presentation was 1.2 years (range of 7month-3years), while three children presented during their infancy. Male to female ratio was 5:3, and all were born of consanguineous marriage. They presented with dermatological manifestations (100%) followed by ophthalmic (75%) and/or neurological symptoms (25%). Patients had normal skin at birth but soon developed extreme sensitivity to UVR in the form of exaggerated sun tanning, burning, and blistering on minimal sun exposure, followed by abnormal skin pigmentation like freckles and lentiginosis. Subsequently, over time there was progressive xerosis, atrophy, wrinkling, and poikiloderma. Six patients had varied degree of ocular involvement, while three of them had severe manifestation, including madarosis, tylosis, ectropion, Lagopthalmos, Pthysis bulbi, clouding and scarring of the cornea with complete or partial loss of vision, and ophthalmic malignancies. 50% (n=4) cases had skin and ocular pre-malignant (actinic keratosis) and malignant lesions, including melanoma and non melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) like squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) in their early childhood. One patient had simultaneous occurrence of multiple malignancies together (SCC, BCC, and melanoma). Subnormal intelligence was noticed as neurological feature, and none had sensory neural hearing loss, microcephaly, neuroregression, or neurdeficit. All the patients had been being managed by a multidisciplinary team of pediatricians, dermatologists, ophthalmologists, neurologists and psychiatrists. Conclusion: Although till date there is no complete cure for XP and the disease is ultimately fatal. But increased awareness, early diagnosis followed by persistent vigorous protection from UVR, and regular screening for early detection of malignancies along with psychological support can drastically improve patients’ quality of life and life expectancy. Further research is required on formulating optimal management of XP, specifically the role and possibilities of gene therapy in XP. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=childhood%20malignancies" title="childhood malignancies">childhood malignancies</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=dermato-pathological%20findings" title=" dermato-pathological findings"> dermato-pathological findings</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=eastern%20India" title=" eastern India"> eastern India</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Xeroderma%20pigmentosa" title=" Xeroderma pigmentosa"> Xeroderma pigmentosa</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/162111/clinico-pathological-study-of-xeroderma-pigmentosa-a-case-series-of-eight-cases" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/162111.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">76</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">20</span> The Relationship between Fight-Flight-Freeze System, Level of Expressed Emotion in Family, and Emotion Regulation Difficulties of University Students: Comparison Experienced to Inexperienced Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Students (NSSI)</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Hyojung%20Shin">Hyojung Shin</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Munhee%20Kweon"> Munhee Kweon</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Non-suicide Self Injuri (NSSI) can be defined as the act of an individual who does not intend to die directly and intentionally damaging his or her body tissues. According to a study conducted by the Korean Ministry of Education in 2018, the NSSI is widely spreading among teenagers, with 7.9 percent of all middle school students and 6.4 percent of high school students reporting experience in NSSI. As such, it is understood that the first time of the NSSI is in adolescence. However, the NSSI may not start and stop at a certain time, but may last longer. However, despite the widespread prevalence of NSSI among teenagers, little is known about the process and maintenance of NSSI college students on a continuous development basis. Korea's NSSI research trends are mainly focused on individual internal vulnerabilities (high levels of painful emotions/awareness, lack of pain tolerance) and interpersonal vulnerabilities (poor communication skills and social problem solving), and little studies have been done on individuals' unique characteristics and environmental factors such as substrate or environmental vulnerability factors. In particular, environmental factors are associated with the occurrence of NSSI by acting as a vulnerability factor that can interfere with the emotional control of individuals, whereas individual factors play a more direct role by contributing to the maintenance of NSSI, so it is more important to consider this for personal environmental involvement in NSSI. This study focused on the Fight-Flight-Freeze System as a factor in the defensive avoidance system of Reward Sensitivity in individual factors. Also, Environmental factors include the level of expressed emotion in family. Wedig and Nock (2007) said that if parents with a self-critical cognitive style take the form of criticizing their children, the experience of NSSI increases. The high level of parental criticism is related to the increasing frequency of NSSI acts as well as to serious levels of NSSI. If the normal coping mechanism fails to control emotions, people want to overcome emotional difficulties even through NSSI, and emotional disturbances experienced by individuals within an unsupported social relationship increase vulnerability to NSSI. Based on these theories, this study is to find ways to prevent NSSI and intervene in counseling effectively by verifying the differences between the characteristics experienced NSSI persons and non-experienced NSSI persons. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to examine the relationship of Fight-Flight-Freeze System (FFFS), level of expressed emotion in family and emotion regulation difficulties, comparing those who experienced Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) with those who did not experienced Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI). The data were collected from university students in Seoul Korea and Gyeonggi-do province. 99 subjects were experienced student of NSSI, while 375 were non- experienced student of NSSI. The results of this study are as follows. First, the result of t-test indicated that NSSI attempters showed a significant difference in fight-flight-freeze system, level of expressed emotion and emotion regulation difficulties, compared with non-attempters. Second, fight-flight-freeze system, level of expressed emotion in family and emotion regulation difficulties of NSSI attempters showed a significant difference in correlation. The correlation was signiﬁcant only freeze system of fight-flight-freeze system, Level of expressed emotion in family and emotion regulation difficulties. Third, freeze system and level of expressed emotion in family predicted emotion regulation difficulties of NSSI attempters. Fight-freeze system and level of expressed emotion in family predicted emotion regulation difficulties of non-NSSI attempters. Lastly, Practical implications for counselors and limitations of this study are discussed. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=fight-flight-freeze%20system" title="fight-flight-freeze system">fight-flight-freeze system</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=level%20of%20expressed%20emotion%20in%20family" title=" level of expressed emotion in family"> level of expressed emotion in family</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=emotion%20regulation%20difficulty" title=" emotion regulation difficulty"> emotion regulation difficulty</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=non-suicidal%20self%20injury" title=" non-suicidal self injury"> non-suicidal self injury</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/120147/the-relationship-between-fight-flight-freeze-system-level-of-expressed-emotion-in-family-and-emotion-regulation-difficulties-of-university-students-comparison-experienced-to-inexperienced-non-suicidal-self-injury-students-nssi" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/120147.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">110</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">19</span> Sustainability Framework for Water Management in New Zealand's Canterbury Region</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Bryan%20Jenkins">Bryan Jenkins</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Introduction: The expansion of irrigation in the Canterbury region has led to the sustainability limits being reached for water availability and the cumulative effects of land use intensification. The institutional framework under New Zealand’s Resource Management Act was found to be an inadequate basis for managing water at sustainability limits. An alternative paradigm for water management was developed based on collaborative governance and nested adaptive systems. This led to the formulation and implementation of the Canterbury Water Management Strategy. Methods: The nested adaptive system approach was adopted. Sustainability issues were identified at multiple spatial and time scales and defined potential failure pathways for the water resource system. These included biophysical and socio-economic issues such as water availability, cumulative effects on water quality due to land use intensification, projected changes in climate, public health, institutional arrangements, economic outcomes and externalities, and, social effects of changing technology. This led to the derivation of sustainability strategies to address these failure pathways. The collaborative governance approach involved stakeholder participation and community engagement to decide on a regional strategy; regional and zone committees of community and rūnanga (Māori groups) members to develop implementation programmes for the strategy; and, farmer collectives for operational management. Findings: The strategy identified improvements in the efficiency of use of water already allocated was more effective in improving water availability than a reliance on increased storage alone. New forms of storage with less adverse impacts were introduced, such as managed aquifer recharge and off-river storage. Reductions of nutrients from land use intensification by improving management practices has been a priority. Solutions packages for addressing the degradation of vulnerable lakes and rivers have been prepared. Biodiversity enhancement projects have been initiated. Greater involvement of Māori has led to the incorporation of kaitiakitanga (resource stewardship) into implementation programmes. Emerging issues are the need for improved integration of surface water and groundwater interactions, increased use of modelling of water and financial outcomes to guide decision making, and, equity in allocation among existing users as well as between existing and future users. Conclusions: However, sustainability analysis indicates that the proposed levels of management interventions are not sufficient to achieve community targets for water management. There is a need for more proactive recovery and rehabilitation measures. Managing to environmental limits is not sufficient, rather managing adaptive cycles is needed. Better measurement and management of water use efficiency is required. Proposed implementation packages are not sufficient to deliver desired water quality outcomes. Greater attention to targets important to environmental and recreational interests is needed to maintain trust in the collaborative process. Implementation programmes don’t adequately address climate change adaptations and greenhouse gas mitigation. Affordability is a constraint on adaptive capacity of farmers and communities. More funding mechanisms are required to implement proactive measures. The legislative and institutional framework needs to be changed to incorporate water framework legislation, regional sustainability strategies and water infrastructure coordination. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=collaborative%20governance" title="collaborative governance">collaborative governance</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=irrigation%20management" title=" irrigation management"> irrigation management</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=nested%20adaptive%20systems" title=" nested adaptive systems"> nested adaptive systems</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=sustainable%20water%20management" title=" sustainable water management"> sustainable water management</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/82029/sustainability-framework-for-water-management-in-new-zealands-canterbury-region" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/82029.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">158</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">18</span> Targeting Matrix Metalloprotease-9 to Reduce Coronary Artery Manifestations of Kawasaki’s Disease</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Mohammadjavad%20Sotoudeheian">Mohammadjavad Sotoudeheian</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Navid%20Farahmandian"> Navid Farahmandian</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Kawasaki disease (KD) is the primary cause of acquired pediatric heart disease as an acute vasculitis. In children with prolonged fever, rash, and inflammation of the mucosa KD must be considered as a clinical diagnosis. There is a persuasive suggestion of immune-mediated damage as the pathophysiologic cascade of KD. For example, the invasion of cytotoxic T-cells supports a viral etiology and the inflammasome of the innate immune system is a critical component in the vasculitis formation in KD. Animal models of KD propose the cytokine profiles, such as increased IL-1 and GM-CSF, which cause vascular damage. CRP and IFN-γ elevated expression and the upregulation of IL-6, and IL-10 production are also described in previous studies. Untreated KD is a critical risk factor for coronary artery diseases and myocardial infarction. Vascular damage may encompass amplified T-cell activity. SMAD3 is an essential molecule in down-regulating T-cells and increasing expression of FoxP3. It has a critical effect in the differentiation of regulatory T-cells. The discrepancy of regulatory T-cells and pro-inflammatory Th17 has been studied in acute coronary syndrome during KD. However in the coronary artery damaged lymphocytes and IgA plasma cells are seen at the lesion locations, the major immune cells in the coronary lesions are monocytes/macrophages and neutrophils. These cells secrete TNF-α, and activates matrix metalloprotease (MMP)-9, reducing the integrity of vessels and prompting patients to arise aneurysm. MMPs can break down the components of the extracellular matrix and assist immune cell movement. IVIG as an effective form of treatment clarified the role of the immune system, which may target pathogenic antigens and regulate cytokine production. Several reports have revealed that in the coronary arteries, high expression of MMP-9 in monocyte/macrophage results in pathologic cascades. Curcumin is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory molecule. Curcumin decreases the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and inhibits transcription factors like AP-1 and NF-κB. Curcumin also contains the characteristics of inhibitory effects on MMPs, especially MMP-9. The upregulation of MMP-9 is an important cellular response. Curcumin treatment caused a reverse effect and down-regulates MMP-9 gene expression which may fund the anti-inflammatory effect. Curcumin inhibits MMP-9 expression via PKC and AMPK-dependent pathways in Human monocytes cells. Elevated expression and activity of MMP-9 are correlated with advanced vascular lesions. AMPK controls lipid metabolism and oxidation, and protein synthesis. AMPK is also necessary for the MMP-9 activity and THP-1 cell adhesion to endothelial cells. Curcumin was shown to inhibit the activation of AMPKα. Compound C (AMPK inhibitor) inhibits MMP-9 expression level. Therefore, through inactivating AMPKs and PKC, curcumin decreases the MMP-9 level, which results in inhibiting monocyte/macrophage differentiation. Compound C also suppress the phosphorylation of three major classes of MAP kinase signaling, suggesting that curcumin may suppress MMP-9 level by inactivation of MAPK pathways. MAPK cascades are activated to induce the expression of MMP-9. Curcumin inhibits MAPKs phosphorylation, which contributes to the down-regulation of MMP-9. This study demonstrated that the potential inhibitory properties of curcumin over MMP-9 lead to a therapeutic strategy to reduce the risk of coronary artery involvement during KD. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=MMP-9" title="MMP-9">MMP-9</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=coronary%20artery%20aneurysm" title=" coronary artery aneurysm"> coronary artery aneurysm</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Kawasaki%E2%80%99s%20disease" title=" Kawasaki’s disease"> Kawasaki’s disease</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=curcumin" title=" curcumin"> curcumin</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=AMPK" title=" AMPK"> AMPK</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=immune%20system" title=" immune system"> immune system</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=NF-%CE%BAB" title=" NF-κB"> NF-κB</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=MAPK" title=" MAPK"> MAPK</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/151199/targeting-matrix-metalloprotease-9-to-reduce-coronary-artery-manifestations-of-kawasakis-disease" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/151199.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">304</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">17</span> Case Report: A Rare Presentation of Fowler's Syndrome in Pregnancy with Mitrofanoff Procedure</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Humaira%20Saeed%20Malik">Humaira Saeed Malik</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Salma%20Saad"> Salma Saad</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Introduction: Fowler's syndrome, first described by Clare Fowler in 1985, is a rare urological condition characterized by difficulty in urination due to the abnormal function of the urethral sphincter. It predominantly affects young women and leads to chronic urinary retention. The main concern in managing this condition is ensuring regular bladder emptying. Clam cystoplasty is a bladder augmentation surgery in which the bladder is clam-shelled open, and a segment of the intestine is used to increase the bladder's capacity and reduce bladder pressure. The Mitrofanoff procedure, a surgical creation of a continent urinary diversion, is often performed in patients with Fowler's syndrome who require long-term catheterization. This procedure involves creating a conduit (from the appendix or a segment of the small intestine) between the bladder and the skin, allowing for intermittent self-catheterization to manage urinary retention. Study: This case study examines a 39-year-old gravida 3, para 0+2 woman with a BMI of 40, Fowler's syndrome, type I diabetes, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), presenting at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary at 8 weeks of gestation. Diagnosed with Fowler's syndrome at 23, . A sacral nerve stimulator (SNS) device was initially placed but was subsequently removed after one year due to malfunction caused by trauma, subsequently she had undergone clam cystoplasty and the Mitrofanoff procedure for bladder management. Her pregnancy was complicated by vaginal bleeding at 10 weeks, treated with progesterone pessaries, and a urinary tract infection at 14 weeks, managed with antibiotics. Despite these challenges, she continued self-catheterization through the Mitrofanoff stoma and was placed on prophylactic antibiotics. Her diabetes was well-controlled on insulin, and a 20-week fetal anomaly scan was normal. The multidisciplinary team, including an obstetrician and a urologist, planned for serial growth scans and the initiation of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) from 28 weeks due to the intermediate risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and to continue six weeks after delivery. A planned cesarean delivery at 37 weeks was arranged, with an MRI scan scheduled later in the pregnancy to assist in surgical planning, ensuring the preservation of the Mitrofanoff stoma's function. The surgery will occur in an elective setting and include a consultant urologist. Conclusion: Pregnancy in women with Fowler's syndrome who have undergone Clam cystoplasty and the Mitrofanoff procedure is rare, and management requires careful planning and a multidisciplinary approach. This case highlights the importance of individualized care plans and close monitoring of both mother and fetus. The patient's risk of recurrent UTIs, coupled with her diabetes and high BMI, necessitated coordinated care across specialties to ensure the best possible outcomes. The Mitrofanoff procedure proved effective in managing her urinary retention, allowing her to maintain self-catheterization during pregnancy. The multidisciplinary team approach was crucial in addressing her complex medical needs, involving obstetrics, urology, and endocrinology. This case adds valuable information to the limited literature on pregnancy management in patients with Fowler's syndrome who have undergone the Mitrofanoff procedure, highlighting the need for comprehensive, individualized care and the involvement of a multidisciplinary team to achieve the best results. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=fowler%27s%20syndrome" title="fowler's syndrome">fowler's syndrome</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=clam%20cystoplasty" title=" clam cystoplasty"> clam cystoplasty</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=mitrofanoff%20procedure" title=" mitrofanoff procedure"> mitrofanoff procedure</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=pregnancy" title=" pregnancy"> pregnancy</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/189296/case-report-a-rare-presentation-of-fowlers-syndrome-in-pregnancy-with-mitrofanoff-procedure" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/189296.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">32</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">16</span> Insights on Nitric Oxide Interaction with Phytohormones in Rice Root System Response to Metal Stress</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Piacentini%20Diego">Piacentini Diego</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Della%20Rovere%20Federica"> Della Rovere Federica</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Fattorini%20Laura"> Fattorini Laura</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Lanni%20Francesca"> Lanni Francesca</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Cittadini%20Martina"> Cittadini Martina</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Altamura%20Maria%20Maddalena"> Altamura Maria Maddalena</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Falasca%20Giuseppina"> Falasca Giuseppina</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Plants have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to cope with environmental cues. Changes in intracellular content and distribution of phytohormones, such as the auxin indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), have been involved in morphogenic adaptation to environmental stresses. In addition to phytohormones, plants can rely on a plethora of small signal molecules able to promptly sense and transduce the stress signals, resulting in morpho/physiological responses thanks also to their capacity to modulate the levels/distribution/reception of most hormones. Among these signaling molecules, nitrogen monoxide (nitric oxide – NO) is a critical component in several plant acclimation strategies to both biotic and abiotic stresses. Depending on its levels, NO increases plant adaptation by enhancing the enzymatic or non-enzymatic antioxidant systems or by acting as a direct scavenger of reactive oxygen/nitrogen (ROS/RNS) species produced during the stress. In addition, exogenous applications of NO-specific donor compounds showed the involvement of the signal molecule in auxin metabolism, transport, and signaling, under both physiological and stress conditions. However, the complex mechanisms underlying NO action in interacting with phytohormones, such as auxins, during metal stress responses are still poorly understood and need to be better investigated. Emphasis must be placed on the response of the root system since it is the first plant organ system to be exposed to metal soil pollution. The monocot Oryza sativa L. (rice) has been chosen given its importance as a stable food for some 4 billion people worldwide. In addition, increasing evidence has shown that rice is often grown in contaminated paddy soils with high levels of heavy metal cadmium (Cd) and metalloid arsenic (As). The facility through which these metals are taken up by rice roots and transported to the aerial organs up to the edible caryopses makes rice one of the most relevant sources of these pollutants for humans. This study aimed to evaluate if NO has a mitigatory activity in the roots of rice seedlings against Cd or As toxicity and to understand if this activity requires interactions with auxin. Our results show that exogenous treatments with the NO-donor SNP alleviate the stress induced by Cd, but not by As, in in-vitro-grown rice seedlings through increased intracellular root NO levels. The damages induced by the pollutants include root growth inhibition, root histological alterations and ROS (H2O2, O2●ˉ), and RNS (ONOOˉ) production. Also, SNP treatments mitigate both the root increase in root IAA levels and the IAA alteration in distribution monitored by the OsDR5::GUS system due to the toxic metal exposure. Notably, the SNP-induced mitigation of the IAA homeostasis altered by the pollutants does not involve changes in the expression of OsYUCCA1 and ASA2 IAA-biosynthetic genes. Taken together, the results highlight a mitigating role of NO in the rice root system, which is pollutant-specific, and involves the interaction of the signal molecule with both IAA and brassinosteroids at different (i.e., transport, levels, distribution) and multiple levels (i.e., transcriptional/post-translational levels). The research is supported by Progetti Ateneo Sapienza University of Rome, grant number: RG120172B773D1FF <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=arsenic" title="arsenic">arsenic</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=auxin" title=" auxin"> auxin</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cadmium" title=" cadmium"> cadmium</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=nitric%20oxide" title=" nitric oxide"> nitric oxide</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=rice" title=" rice"> rice</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=root%20system" title=" root system"> root system</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/160128/insights-on-nitric-oxide-interaction-with-phytohormones-in-rice-root-system-response-to-metal-stress" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/160128.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">80</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">15</span> Classical Improvisation Facilitating Enhanced Performer-Audience Engagement and a Mutually Developing Impulse Exchange with Concert Audiences</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Pauliina%20Haustein">Pauliina Haustein</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Improvisation was part of Western classical concert culture and performers’ skill sets until early 20th century. Historical accounts, as well as recent studies, indicate that improvisatory elements in the programme may contribute specifically towards the audiences’ experience of enhanced emotional engagement during the concert. This paper presents findings from the author’s artistic practice research, which explored re-introducing improvisation to Western classical performance practice as a musician (cellist and ensemble partner/leader). In an investigation of four concert cycles, the performer-researcher sought to gain solo and chamber music improvisation techniques (both related to and independent of repertoire), conduct ensemble improvisation rehearsals, design concerts with an improvisatory approach, and reflect on interactions with audiences after each concert. Data was collected through use of reflective diary, video recordings, measurement of sound parameters, questionnaires, a focus group, and interviews. The performer’s empirical experiences and findings from audience research components were juxtaposed and interrogated to better understand the (1) rehearsal and planning processes that enable improvisatory elements to return to Western classical concert experience and (2) the emotional experience and type of engagement that occur throughout the concert experience for both performer and audience members. This informed the development of a concert model, in which a programme of solo and chamber music repertoire and improvisations were combined according to historically evidenced performance practice (including free formal solo and ensemble improvisations based on audience suggestions). Inspired by historical concert culture, where elements of risk-taking, spontaneity, and audience involvement (such as proposing themes for fantasies) were customary, this concert model invited musicians to contribute to the process personally and creatively at all stages, from programme planning, and throughout the live concert. The type of democratic, personal, creative, and empathetic collaboration that emerged, as a result, appears unique in Western classical contexts, rather finding resonance in jazz ensemble, drama, or interdisciplinary settings. The research identified features of ensemble improvisation, such as empathy, emergence, mutual engagement, and collaborative creativity, that became mirrored in audience’s responses, generating higher levels of emotional engagement, empathy, inclusivity, and a participatory, co-creative experience. It appears that duringimprovisatory moments in the concert programme, audience members started feeling more like active participants in za\\a creative, collaborative exchange and became stakeholders in a deeper phenomenon of meaning-making and narrativization. Examining interactions between all involved during the concert revealed that performer-audience impulse exchange occurred on multiple levels of awareness and seemed to build upon each other, resulting in particularly strong experiences of both performer and audience’s engagement. This impact appeared especially meaningful for audience members who were seldom concertgoers and reported little familiarity with classical music. The study found that re-introducing improvisatory elements to Western classical concert programmes has strong potential in increasing audience’s emotional engagement with the musical performance, enabling audience members to connect more personally with the individual performers, and in reaching new-to-classical-music audiences. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=artistic%20research" title="artistic research">artistic research</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=audience%20engagement" title=" audience engagement"> audience engagement</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=audience%20experience" title=" audience experience"> audience experience</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=classical%20improvisation" title=" classical improvisation"> classical improvisation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=ensemble%20improvisation" title=" ensemble improvisation"> ensemble improvisation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=emotional%20engagement" title=" emotional engagement"> emotional engagement</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=improvisation" title=" improvisation"> improvisation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=improvisatory%20approach" title=" improvisatory approach"> improvisatory approach</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=musical%20performance" title=" musical performance"> musical performance</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=practice%20research" title=" practice research"> practice research</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/145986/classical-improvisation-facilitating-enhanced-performer-audience-engagement-and-a-mutually-developing-impulse-exchange-with-concert-audiences" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/145986.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">128</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">14</span> Implementing Equitable Learning Experiences to Increase Environmental Awareness and Science Proficiency in Alabama’s Schools and Communities</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Carly%20Cummings">Carly Cummings</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Maria%20Soledad%20Peresin"> Maria Soledad Peresin</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Alabama has a long history of racial injustice and unsatisfactory educational performance. In the 1870s Jim Crow laws segregated public schools and disproportionally allocated funding and resources to white institutions across the South. Despite the Supreme Court ruling to integrate schools following Brown vs. the Board of Education in 1954, Alabama’s school system continued to exhibit signs of segregation, compounded by “white flight” and the establishment of exclusive private schools, which still exist today. This discriminatory history has had a lasting impact of the state’s education system, reflected in modern school demographics and achievement data. It is well known that Alabama struggles with education performance, especially in science education. On average, minority groups scored the lowest in science proficiency. In Alabama, minority populations are concentrated in a region known as the Black Belt, which was once home to countless slave plantations and was the epicenter of the Civil Rights Movement. Today the Black Belt is characterized by a high density of woodlands and plays a significant role in Alabama’s leading economic industry-forest products. Given the economic importance of forestry and agriculture to the state, environmental science proficiency is essential to its stability; however, it is neglected in areas where it is needed most. To better understand the inequity of science education within Alabama, our study first investigates how geographic location, demographics and school funding relate to science achievement scores using ArcGIS and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Additionally, our study explores the implementation of a relevant, problem-based, active learning lesson in schools. Relevant learning engages students by connecting material to their personal experiences. Problem-based active learning involves real-world problem-solving through hands-on experiences. Given Alabama’s significant woodland coverage, educational materials on forest products were developed with consideration of its relevance to students, especially those located in the Black Belt. Furthermore, to incorporate problem solving and active learning, the lesson centered around students using forest products to solve environmental challenges, such as water pollution- an increasing challenge within the state due to climate change. Pre and post assessment surveys were provided to teachers to measure the effectiveness of the lesson. In addition to pedagogical practices, community and mentorship programs are known to positively impact educational achievements. To this end, our work examines the results of surveys measuring educational professionals’ attitudes toward a local mentorship group within the Black Belt and its potential to address environmental and science literacy. Additionally, our study presents survey results from participants who attended an educational community event, gauging its effectiveness in increasing environmental and science proficiency. Our results demonstrate positive improvements in environmental awareness and science literacy with relevant pedagogy, mentorship, and community involvement. Implementing these practices can help provide equitable and inclusive learning environments and can better equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to bridge this historic educational gap within Alabama. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=equitable%20education" title="equitable education">equitable education</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=environmental%20science" title=" environmental science"> environmental science</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=environmental%20education" title=" environmental education"> environmental education</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=science%20education" title=" science education"> science education</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=racial%20injustice" title=" racial injustice"> racial injustice</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=sustainability" title=" sustainability"> sustainability</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=rural%20education" title=" rural education"> rural education</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/170870/implementing-equitable-learning-experiences-to-increase-environmental-awareness-and-science-proficiency-in-alabamas-schools-and-communities" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/170870.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">68</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">13</span> Farm-Women in Technology Transfer to Foster the Capacity Building of Agriculture: A Forecast from a Draught-Prone Rural Setting in India</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Pradipta%20Chandra">Pradipta Chandra</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Titas%20Bhattacharjee"> Titas Bhattacharjee</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Bhaskar%20Bhowmick"> Bhaskar Bhowmick</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The foundation of economy in India is primarily based on agriculture while this is the most neglected in the rural setting. More significantly, household women take part in agriculture with higher involvement. However, because of lower education of women they have limited access towards financial decisions, land ownership and technology but they have vital role towards the individual family level. There are limited studies on the institution-wise training barriers with the focus of gender disparity. The main purpose of this paper is to find out the factors of institution-wise training (non-formal education) barriers in technology transfer with the focus of participation of rural women in agriculture. For this study primary and secondary data were collected in the line of qualitative and quantitative approach. Qualitative data were collected by several field visits in the adjacent areas of Seva-Bharati, Seva Bharati Krishi Vigyan Kendra through semi-structured questionnaires. In the next level detailed field surveys were conducted with close-ended questionnaires scored on the seven-point Likert scale. Sample size was considered as 162. During the data collection the focus was to include women although some biasness from the end of respondents and interviewer might exist due to dissimilarity in observation, views etc. In addition to that the heterogeneity of sample is not very high although female participation is more than fifty percent. Data were analyzed using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) technique with the outcome of three significant factors of training barriers in technology adoption by farmers: (a) Failure of technology transfer training (TTT) comprehension interprets that the technology takers, i.e., farmers can’t understand the technology either language barrier or way of demonstration exhibited by the experts/ trainers. (b) Failure of TTT customization, articulates that the training for individual farmer, gender crop or season-wise is not tailored. (c) Failure of TTT generalization conveys that absence of common training methods for individual trainers for specific crops is more prominent at the community level. The central finding is that the technology transfer training method can’t fulfill the need of the farmers under an economically challenged area. The impact of such study is very high in the area of dry lateritic and resource crunch area of Jangalmahal under Paschim Medinipur district, West Bengal and areas with similar socio-economy. Towards the policy level decision this research may help in framing digital agriculture for implementation of the appropriate information technology for the farming community, effective and timely investment by the government with the selection of beneficiary, formation of farmers club/ farm science club etc. The most important research implication of this study lies upon the contribution towards the knowledge diffusion mechanism of the agricultural sector in India. Farmers may overcome the barriers to achieve higher productivity through adoption of modern farm practices. Corporates will be interested in agro-sector through investment under corporate social responsibility (CSR). The research will help in framing public or industry policy and land use pattern. Consequently, a huge mass of rural farm-women will be empowered and farmer community will be benefitted. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=dry%20lateritic%20zone" title="dry lateritic zone">dry lateritic zone</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=institutional%20barriers" title=" institutional barriers"> institutional barriers</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=technology%20transfer%20in%20India" title=" technology transfer in India"> technology transfer in India</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=farm-women%20participation" title=" farm-women participation"> farm-women participation</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/36090/farm-women-in-technology-transfer-to-foster-the-capacity-building-of-agriculture-a-forecast-from-a-draught-prone-rural-setting-in-india" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/36090.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">373</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">12</span> Case Report: Peripartum Cardiomyopathy, a Rare but Fatal Condition in Pregnancy and Puerperium</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Sadaf%20Abbas">Sadaf Abbas</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=HimGauri%20Sabnis"> HimGauri Sabnis</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Introduction: Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that presents as heart failure during the last month of pregnancy or within five months postpartum. The incidence of postpartum cardiomyopathy ranges from 1 in 1300 to 1 in 15,000 pregnancies. Risk factors include multiparty, advanced maternal age, multiple pregnancies, pre-eclampsia, and chronic hypertension. Study: A 30-year-old Para3+0 presented to the Emergency Department of St’Marry Hospital, Isle of Wight, on the seventh day postpartum, with acute shortness of breath (SOB), chest pain, cough, and a temperature of 38 degrees. The risk factors were smoking and class II obesity (BMI of 40.62). The patient had mild pre-eclampsia in the last pregnancy and was on labetalol and aspirin during an antenatal period, which was stopped postnatally. There was also a history of pre-eclampsia and haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets (HELLP syndrome) in previous pregnancies, which led to preterm delivery at 35 weeks in the second pregnancy, and the first baby was stillborn at 24 weeks. On assessment, there was a national early warning score (NEWS score) of 3, persistent tachycardia, and mild crepitation in the lungs. Initial investigations revealed an enlarged heart on chest X-ray, and a CT pulmonary angiogram indicated bilateral basal pulmonary congestion without pulmonary embolism, suggesting fluid overload. Laboratory results showed elevated CRP and normal troponin levels initially, which later increased, indicating myocardial involvement. Echocardiography revealed a severely dilated left ventricle with an ejection fraction (EF) of 31%, consistent with severely impaired systolic function. The cardiology team reviewed the patient and admitted to the Coronary Care Unit. As sign and symptoms were suggestive of fluid overload and congestive cardiac failure, management was done with diuretics, beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors), proton pump inhibitors, and supportive care. During admission, there was complications such as acute kidney injury, but then recovered well. Chest pain had resolved following the treatment. After being admitted for eight days, there was an improvement in the symptoms, and the patient was discharged home with a further plan of cardiac MRI and genetic testing due to a family history of sudden cardiac death. Regular appointment has been made with the Cardiology team to follow-up on the symptoms. Since discharge, the patient made a good recovery. A cardiac MRI was done, which showed severely impaired left ventricular function, ejection fraction (EF) of 38% with mild left ventricular dilatation, and no evidence of previous infarction. Overall appearance is of non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. The main challenge at the time of admission was the non-availability of a cardiac radiology team, so the definitive diagnosis was delayed. The long-term implications include risk of recurrence, chronic heart failure, and, consequently, an effect on quality of life. Therefore, regular follow-up is critical in patient’s management. Conclusions: Peripartum cardiomyopathy is one of the cardiovascular diseases whose causes are still unknown yet and, in some cases, are uncontrolled. By raising awareness about the symptoms and management of this complication it will reduce morbidity and mortality rates and also the length of stay in the hospital. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cardiomyopathy" title="cardiomyopathy">cardiomyopathy</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cardiomegaly" title=" cardiomegaly"> cardiomegaly</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=pregnancy" title=" pregnancy"> pregnancy</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=puerperium" title=" puerperium"> puerperium</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/189014/case-report-peripartum-cardiomyopathy-a-rare-but-fatal-condition-in-pregnancy-and-puerperium" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/189014.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">29</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">11</span> An Engaged Approach to Developing Tools for Measuring Caregiver Knowledge and Caregiver Engagement in Juvenile Type 1 Diabetes</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=V.%20Howard">V. Howard</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=R.%20Maguire"> R. Maguire</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=S.%20Corrigan"> S. Corrigan</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Background: Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease, typically diagnosed in childhood. T1D puts an enormous strain on families; controlling blood-glucose in children is difficult and the consequences of poor control for patient health are significant. Successful illness management and better health outcomes can be dependent on quality of caregiving. On diagnosis, parent-caregivers face a steep learning curve as T1D care requires a significant level of knowledge to inform complex decision making throughout the day. The majority of illness management is carried out in the home setting, independent of clinical health providers. Parent-caregivers vary in their level of knowledge and their level of engagement in applying this knowledge in the practice of illness management. Enabling researchers to quantify these aspects of the caregiver experience is key to identifying targets for psychosocial support interventions, which are desirable for reducing stress and anxiety in this highly burdened cohort, and supporting better health outcomes in children. Currently, there are limited tools available that are designed to capture this information. Where tools do exist, they are not comprehensive and do not adequately capture the lived experience. Objectives: Development of quantitative tools, informed by lived experience, to enable researchers gather data on parent-caregiver knowledge and engagement, which accurately represents the experience/cohort and enables exploration of questions that are of real-world value to the cohort themselves. Methods: This research employed an engaged approach to address the problem of quantifying two key aspects of caregiver diabetes management: Knowledge and engagement. The research process was multi-staged and iterative. Stage 1: Working from a constructivist standpoint, literature was reviewed to identify relevant questionnaires, scales and single-item measures of T1D caregiver knowledge and engagement, and harvest candidate questionnaire items. Stage 2: Aggregated findings from the review were circulated among a PPI (patient and public involvement) expert panel of caregivers (n=6), for discussion and feedback. Stage 3: In collaboration with the expert panel, data were interpreted through the lens of lived experience to create a long-list of candidate items for novel questionnaires. Items were categorized as either ‘knowledge’ or ‘engagement’. Stage 4: A Delphi-method process (iterative surveys) was used to prioritize question items and generate novel questions that further captured the lived experience. Stage 5: Both questionnaires were piloted to refine wording of text to increase accessibility and limit socially desirable responding. Stage 6: Tools were piloted using an online survey that was deployed using an online peer-support group for caregivers for Juveniles with T1D. Ongoing Research: 123 parent-caregivers completed the survey. Data analysis is ongoing to establish face and content validity qualitatively and through exploratory factor analysis. Reliability will be established using an alternative-form method and Cronbach’s alpha will assess internal consistency. Work will be completed by early 2024. Conclusion: These tools will enable researchers to gain deeper insights into caregiving practices among parents of juveniles with T1D. Development was driven by lived experience, illustrating the value of engaged research at all levels of the research process. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=caregiving" title="caregiving">caregiving</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=engaged%20research" title=" engaged research"> engaged research</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=juvenile%20type%201%20diabetes" title=" juvenile type 1 diabetes"> juvenile type 1 diabetes</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=quantified%20engagement%20and%20knowledge" title=" quantified engagement and knowledge"> quantified engagement and knowledge</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/179278/an-engaged-approach-to-developing-tools-for-measuring-caregiver-knowledge-and-caregiver-engagement-in-juvenile-type-1-diabetes" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/179278.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">55</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">10</span> The Pro-Reparative Effect of Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide in Chronic Inflammatory Osteolytic Periapical Lesions</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Michelle%20C.%20S.%20Azevedo">Michelle C. S. Azevedo</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Priscila%20M.%20Colavite"> Priscila M. Colavite</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Carolina%20F.%20Francisconi"> Carolina F. Francisconi</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Ana%20P.%20Trombone"> Ana P. Trombone</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Gustavo%20P.%20Garlet"> Gustavo P. Garlet</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> VIP (vasoactive intestinal peptide) know as a potential protective factor in the view of its marked immunosuppressive properties. In this work, we investigated a possible association of VIP with the clinical status of experimental periapical granulomas and the association with expression markers in the lesions potentially associated with periapical lesions pathogenesis. C57BL/6WT mice were treated or not with recombinant VIP. Animals with active/progressive (N=40), inactive/stable (N=70) periapical granulomas and controls (N=50) were anesthetized and the right mandibular first molar was surgically opened, allowing exposure of dental pulp. Endodontic pathogenic bacterial strains were inoculated: Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella nigrescens, Actinomyces viscosus, and Fusobacterium nucleatum subsp. polymorphum. The cavity was not sealed after bacterial inoculation. During lesion development, animals were treated or not with recombinant VIP 3 days post infection. Animals were killed after 3, 7, 14, and 21 days of infection and the jaws were dissected. The extraction of total RNA from periodontal tissues was performed and the integrity of samples was checked. qPCR reaction using TaqMan chemistry with inventoried primers were performed in ViiA7 equipment. The results, depicted as the relative levels of gene expression, were calculated in reference to GAPDH and β-actin expression. Periodontal tissues from upper molars were vested and incubated supplemented RPMI, followed by processing with 0.05% DNase. Cell viability and couting were determined by Neubauer chamber analysis. For flow cytometry analysis, after cell counting the cells were stained with the optimal dilution of each antibody; (PE)-conjugated and (FITC)-conjugated antibodies against CD4, CD25, FOXP3, IL-4, IL-17 and IFN-γ antibodies, as well their respective isotype controls. Cells were analyzed by FACScan and CellQuest software. Results are presented as the number of cells in the periodontal tissues or the number of positive cells for each marker in the CD4+FOXp3+, CD4+IL-4+, CD4+IFNg+ and CD4+IL-17+ subpopulations. The levels mRNA were measured by qPCR. The VIP expression was predominated in inactive lesions, as well part of the clusters of cytokine/Th markers identified as protective factors and a negative correlation between VIP expression and lesion evolution was observed. A quantitative analysis of IL1β, IL17, TNF, IFN, MMP2, RANKL, OPG, IL10, TGFβ, CTLA4, COL5A1, CTGF, CXCL11, FGF7, ITGA4, ITGA5, SERP1 and VTN expression was measured in experimental periapical lesions treated with VIP 7 and 14 days after lesion induction and healthy animals. After 7 days, all targets presented a significate increase in comparison to untreated animals. About migration kinetics, profile of chemokine receptors expression of TCD4+ subsets and phenotypic analysis of Tregs, Th1, Th2 and Th17 cells during the course of experimental periodontal disease evaluated by flow cytometry and depicted as the number of positive cells for each marker. CD4+IFNg+ and CD4+FOXp3+ cells migration were significate increased 7 days post VIP treatment. CD4+IL17+ cells migration were significate increased 7 and 14 days post VIP treatment, CD4+IL4+ cells migration were significate increased 14 and 21 days post VIP treatment compared to the control group. In conclusion, our experimental data support VIP involvement in determining the inactivity of periapical lesions. Financial support: FAPESP #2015/25618-2. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=chronic%20inflammation" title="chronic inflammation">chronic inflammation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cytokines" title=" cytokines"> cytokines</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=osteolytic%20lesions" title=" osteolytic lesions"> osteolytic lesions</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=VIP%20%28Vasoactive%20Intestinal%20Peptide%29" title=" VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide)"> VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide)</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/76218/the-pro-reparative-effect-of-vasoactive-intestinal-peptide-in-chronic-inflammatory-osteolytic-periapical-lesions" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/76218.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">193</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">9</span> Resveratrol Ameliorates Benzo(a)Pyrene Induced Testicular Dysfunction and Apoptosis: Involvement of p38 MAPK/ATF2/iNOS Signaling</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Kuladip%20Jana">Kuladip Jana</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Bhaswati%20Banerjee"> Bhaswati Banerjee</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Parimal%20C.%20Sen"> Parimal C. Sen</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Benzo(a)pyrene [B(a)P] is an environmental toxicant present mostly in cigarette smoke and car exhaust, is an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligand that exerts its toxic effects on both male and female reproductive systems along with carcinogenesis in skin, prostate, ovary, lung and mammary glands. Our study was focused on elucidating the molecular mechanism of B(a)P induced male reproductive toxicity and its prevention with phytochemical like resveratrol. In this study, the effect of B(a)P at different doses (0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 5 mg /kg body weight) was studied on male reproductive system of Wistar rat. A significant decrease in cauda epididymal sperm count and motility along with the presence of sperm head abnormalities and altered epididymal and testicular histology were documented following B(a)P treatment. B(a)P treatment resulted apoptotic sperm cells as observed by TUNEL and Annexin V-PI assay with increased Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), altered sperm mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) with a simultaneous decrease in the activity of antioxidant enzymes and GSH status. TUNEL positive apoptotic cells also observed in testis as well as isolated germ and Leydig cells following B(a)P exposure. Western Blot analysis revealed the activation of p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (p38MAPK), cytosolic translocation of cytochrome-c, upregulation of Bax and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) with cleavage of poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) and down regulation of BCl2 in testis upon B(a)P treatment. The protein and mRNA levels of testicular key steroidogenesis regulatory proteins like steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cytochrome P450 IIA1 (CYPIIA1), 3β hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase (3β HSD), 17β hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase (17β HSD) showed a significant decrease in a dose dependent manner while an increase in the expression of cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1), Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR), active caspase- 9 and caspase- 3 following B(a)P exposure. We conclude that exposure of benzo(a)pyrene caused testicular gamatogenic and steroidogenic disorders by induction of oxidative stress, inhibition of StAR and other steroidogenic enzymes along with activation of p38MAPK and initiated caspase-3 mediated germ and Leydig cell apoptosis. Next we investigated the role of resveratrol on B(a)P induced male reproductive toxicity. Our study highlighted that resveratrol co-treatment with B(a)P maintained testicular redox potential, increased serum testosterone level and prevented steroidogenic dysfunction with enhanced expression of major testicular steroidogenic proteins (CYPIIA1, StAR, 3β HSD,17β HSD) relative to treatment with B(a)P only. Resveratrol suppressed B(a)P-induced testicular activation of p38 MAPK, ATF2, iNOS and ROS production; cytosolic translocation of Cytochome c and Caspase 3 activation thereby prevented oxidative stress of testis and inhibited apoptosis. Resveratrol co-treatment also decreased B(a)P-induced AhR protein level, its nuclear translocation and subsequent CYP1A1 promoter activation, thereby decreased protein and mRNA levels of testicular cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A1) and prevented BPDE-DNA adduct formation. Our findings cumulatively suggest that resveratrol prevents activation of B(a)P by modulating the transcriptional regulation of CYP1A1 and acting as an antioxidant thus prevents B(a)P-induced oxidative stress and testicular apoptosis. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=benzo%28a%29pyrene" title="benzo(a)pyrene">benzo(a)pyrene</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=resveratrol" title=" resveratrol"> resveratrol</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=testis" title=" testis"> testis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=apoptosis" title=" apoptosis"> apoptosis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cytochrome%20P450%201A1%20%28CYP1A1%29" title=" cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1)"> cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1)</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=aryl%20hydrocarbon%20receptor%20%28AhR%29" title=" aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)"> aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=p38%20MAPK%2FATF2%2FiNOS" title=" p38 MAPK/ATF2/iNOS"> p38 MAPK/ATF2/iNOS</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/49374/resveratrol-ameliorates-benzoapyrene-induced-testicular-dysfunction-and-apoptosis-involvement-of-p38-mapkatf2inos-signaling" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/49374.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">232</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">8</span> PsyVBot: Chatbot for Accurate Depression Diagnosis using Long Short-Term Memory and NLP</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Thaveesha%20Dheerasekera">Thaveesha Dheerasekera</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Dileeka%20Sandamali%20Alwis"> Dileeka Sandamali Alwis</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The escalating prevalence of mental health issues, such as depression and suicidal ideation, is a matter of significant global concern. It is plausible that a variety of factors, such as life events, social isolation, and preexisting physiological or psychological health conditions, could instigate or exacerbate these conditions. Traditional approaches to diagnosing depression entail a considerable amount of time and necessitate the involvement of adept practitioners. This underscores the necessity for automated systems capable of promptly detecting and diagnosing symptoms of depression. The PsyVBot system employs sophisticated natural language processing and machine learning methodologies, including the use of the NLTK toolkit for dataset preprocessing and the utilization of a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model. The PsyVBot exhibits a remarkable ability to diagnose depression with a 94% accuracy rate through the analysis of user input. Consequently, this resource proves to be efficacious for individuals, particularly those enrolled in academic institutions, who may encounter challenges pertaining to their psychological well-being. The PsyVBot employs a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model that comprises a total of three layers, namely an embedding layer, an LSTM layer, and a dense layer. The stratification of these layers facilitates a precise examination of linguistic patterns that are associated with the condition of depression. The PsyVBot has the capability to accurately assess an individual's level of depression through the identification of linguistic and contextual cues. The task is achieved via a rigorous training regimen, which is executed by utilizing a dataset comprising information sourced from the subreddit r/SuicideWatch. The diverse data present in the dataset ensures precise and delicate identification of symptoms linked with depression, thereby guaranteeing accuracy. PsyVBot not only possesses diagnostic capabilities but also enhances the user experience through the utilization of audio outputs. This feature enables users to engage in more captivating and interactive interactions. The PsyVBot platform offers individuals the opportunity to conveniently diagnose mental health challenges through a confidential and user-friendly interface. Regarding the advancement of PsyVBot, maintaining user confidentiality and upholding ethical principles are of paramount significance. It is imperative to note that diligent efforts are undertaken to adhere to ethical standards, thereby safeguarding the confidentiality of user information and ensuring its security. Moreover, the chatbot fosters a conducive atmosphere that is supportive and compassionate, thereby promoting psychological welfare. In brief, PsyVBot is an automated conversational agent that utilizes an LSTM model to assess the level of depression in accordance with the input provided by the user. The demonstrated accuracy rate of 94% serves as a promising indication of the potential efficacy of employing natural language processing and machine learning techniques in tackling challenges associated with mental health. The reliability of PsyVBot is further improved by the fact that it makes use of the Reddit dataset and incorporates Natural Language Toolkit (NLTK) for preprocessing. PsyVBot represents a pioneering and user-centric solution that furnishes an easily accessible and confidential medium for seeking assistance. The present platform is offered as a modality to tackle the pervasive issue of depression and the contemplation of suicide. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=chatbot" title="chatbot">chatbot</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=depression%20diagnosis" title=" depression diagnosis"> depression diagnosis</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=LSTM%20model" title=" LSTM model"> LSTM model</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=natural%20language%20process" title=" natural language process"> natural language process</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/167943/psyvbot-chatbot-for-accurate-depression-diagnosis-using-long-short-term-memory-and-nlp" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/167943.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">68</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">7</span> A Case Report on the Course and Outcome of a Patient Diagnosed with Trichotillomania and Major Depressive Disorder</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Ziara%20Carmelli%20G.%20Tan">Ziara Carmelli G. Tan</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Irene%20Carmelle%20S.%20Tan"> Irene Carmelle S. Tan</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Background: Trichotillomania (TTM) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) are two psychiatric conditions that frequently co-occur, presenting a significant challenge for treatment due to their complex interplay. TTM involves repetitive hair-pulling, leading to noticeable hair loss and distress, while MDD is characterized by persistent low mood and loss of interest or pleasure, leading to dysfunctionality. This case report examines the intricate relationship between TTM and MDD in a young adult female, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive, multifaceted therapeutic approach to address both disorders effectively. Case Presentation: The patient is a 21-year-old female college student and youth church leader who presented with chronic hair-pulling and depressive symptoms. Her premorbid personality was marked by low self-esteem and a strong need for external validation. Despite her academic and social responsibilities and achievements, she struggled with managing her emotional distress, which was exacerbated by her family dynamics and her role within her church community. Her hair-pulling and mood symptoms were particularly triggered by self-esteem threats and feelings of inadequacy. She was diagnosed with Trichotillomania, Scalp and Major Depressive Disorder. Intervention/Management: The patient’s treatment plan was comprehensive, incorporating both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. Initial pharmacologic management was Fluoxetine 20mg/day up, titrated to 40mg/day with no improvement; hence, shifted to Escitalopram 20mg/day and started with N-acetylcysteine 600mg/day with noted significant improvement in symptoms. Psychotherapeutic strategies played a crucial role in her treatment. These included supportive-expressive psychodynamic psychotherapy, which helped her explore and understand underlying emotional conflicts. Cognitive-behavioral techniques were employed to modify her maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. Grief processing was integrated to help her cope with significant losses. Family therapy was done to address conflicts and collaborate with the treatment process. Psychoeducation was provided to enhance her understanding of her condition and to empower her in her treatment journey. A suicide safety plan was developed to ensure her safety during critical periods. An interprofessional approach, which involved coordination with the Dermatology service for co-management, was also a key component of her treatment. Outcome: Over the course of 15 therapy sessions, the patient demonstrated significant improvement in both her depressive symptoms and hair-pulling behavior. Her active engagement in therapy, combined with pharmacological support, facilitated better emotional regulation and a more cohesive sense of self. Her adherence to the treatment plan, along with the collaborative efforts of the interprofessional team, contributed to her positive outcomes. Discussion: This case underscores the significance of addressing both TTM and its comorbid conditions to achieve effective treatment outcomes. The intricate interplay between TTM and MDD in the patient’s case highlights the importance of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes both pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches. Supportive-expressive psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive-behavioral techniques, and Family therapy were particularly beneficial in addressing the complex emotional and behavioral aspects of her condition. The involvement of an interprofessional team, including dermatology co-management, was crucial in providing holistic care. Future practice should consider the benefits of such a multidisciplinary approach to managing complex cases like this, ensuring that both the psychological and physiological aspects of the disorders are adequately addressed. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cognitive-behavioral%20therapy" title="cognitive-behavioral therapy">cognitive-behavioral therapy</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=interprofessional%20approach" title=" interprofessional approach"> interprofessional approach</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=major%20depressive%20disorder" title=" major depressive disorder"> major depressive disorder</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=psychodynamic%20psychotherapy" title=" psychodynamic psychotherapy"> psychodynamic psychotherapy</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=trichotillomania" title=" trichotillomania"> trichotillomania</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/188942/a-case-report-on-the-course-and-outcome-of-a-patient-diagnosed-with-trichotillomania-and-major-depressive-disorder" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/188942.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">30</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">6</span> Modelling Farmer’s Perception and Intention to Join Cashew Marketing Cooperatives: An Expanded Version of the Theory of Planned Behaviour</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Gospel%20Iyioku">Gospel Iyioku</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Jana%20Mazancova"> Jana Mazancova</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Jiri%20Hejkrlik"> Jiri Hejkrlik</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The “Agricultural Promotion Policy (2016–2020)” represents a strategic initiative by the Nigerian government to address domestic food shortages and the challenges in exporting products at the required quality standards. Hindered by an inefficient system for setting and enforcing food quality standards, coupled with a lack of market knowledge, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) aims to enhance support for the production and activities of key crops like cashew. By collaborating with farmers, processors, investors, and stakeholders in the cashew sector, the policy seeks to define and uphold high-quality standards across the cashew value chain. Given the challenges and opportunities faced by Nigerian cashew farmers, active participation in cashew marketing groups becomes imperative. These groups serve as essential platforms for farmers to collectively navigate market intricacies, access resources, share knowledge, improve output quality, and bolster their overall bargaining power. Through engagement in these cooperative initiatives, farmers not only boost their economic prospects but can also contribute significantly to the sustainable growth of the cashew industry, fostering resilience and community development. This study explores the perceptions and intentions of farmers regarding their involvement in cashew marketing cooperatives, utilizing an expanded version of the Theory of Planned Behaviour. Drawing insights from a diverse sample of 321 cashew farmers in Southwest Nigeria, the research sheds light on the factors influencing decision-making in cooperative participation. The demographic analysis reveals a diverse landscape, with a substantial presence of middle-aged individuals contributing significantly to the agricultural sector and cashew-related activities emerging as a primary income source for a substantial proportion (23.99%). Employing Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) with Maximum Likelihood Robust (MLR) estimation in R, the research elucidates the associations among latent variables. Despite the model’s complexity, the goodness-of-fit indices attest to the validity of the structural model, explaining approximately 40% of the variance in the intention to join cooperatives. Moral norms emerge as a pivotal construct, highlighting the profound influence of ethical considerations in decision-making processes, while perceived behavioural control presents potential challenges in active participation. Attitudes toward joining cooperatives reveal nuanced perspectives, with strong beliefs in enhanced connections with other farmers but varying perceptions on improved access to essential information. The SEM analysis establishes positive and significant effects of moral norms, perceived behavioural control, subjective norms, and attitudes on farmers’ intention to join cooperatives. The knowledge construct positively affects key factors influencing intention, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making. A supplementary analysis using partial least squares (PLS) SEM corroborates the robustness of our findings, aligning with covariance-based SEM results. This research unveils the determinants of cooperative participation and provides valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to empower and support this vital demographic in the cashew industry. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=marketing%20cooperatives" title="marketing cooperatives">marketing cooperatives</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=theory%20of%20planned%20behaviour" title=" theory of planned behaviour"> theory of planned behaviour</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=structural%20equation%20modelling" title=" structural equation modelling"> structural equation modelling</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=cashew%20farmers" title=" cashew farmers"> cashew farmers</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/179213/modelling-farmers-perception-and-intention-to-join-cashew-marketing-cooperatives-an-expanded-version-of-the-theory-of-planned-behaviour" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/179213.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">84</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">5</span> A Case Study on Utility of 18FDG-PET/CT Scan in Identifying Active Extra Lymph Nodes and Staging of Breast Cancer</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Farid%20Risheq">Farid Risheq</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=M.%20Zaid%20Alrisheq"> M. Zaid Alrisheq</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Shuaa%20Al-Sadoon"> Shuaa Al-Sadoon</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Karim%20Al-Faqih"> Karim Al-Faqih</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Mays%20Abdulazeez"> Mays Abdulazeez</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer worldwide, and a common cause of death among women. Various conventional anatomical imaging tools are utilized for diagnosis, histological assessment and TNM (Tumor, Node, Metastases) staging of breast cancer. Biopsy of sentinel lymph node is becoming an alternative to the axillary lymph node dissection. Advances in 18-Fluoro-Deoxi-Glucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (18FDG-PET/CT) imaging have facilitated breast cancer diagnosis utilizing biological trapping of 18FDG inside lesion cells, expressed as Standardized Uptake Value (SUVmax). Objective: To present the utility of 18FDG uptake PET/CT scans in detecting active extra lymph nodes and distant occult metastases for breast cancer staging. Subjects and Methods: Four female patients were presented with initially classified TNM stages of breast cancer based on conventional anatomical diagnostic techniques. 18FDG-PET/CT scans were performed one hour post 18FDG intra-venous injection of (300-370) MBq, and (7-8) bed/130sec. Transverse, sagittal, and coronal views; fused PET/CT and MIP modality were reconstructed for each patient. Results: A total of twenty four lesions in breast, extended lesions to lung, liver, bone and active extra lymph nodes were detected among patients. The initial TNM stage was significantly changed post 18FDG-PET/CT scan for each patient, as follows: Patient-1: Initial TNM-stage: T1N1M0-(stage I). Finding: Two lesions in right breast (3.2cm2, SUVmax=10.2), (1.8cm2, SUVmax=6.7), associated with metastases to two right axillary lymph nodes. Final TNM-stage: T1N2M0-(stage II). Patient-2: Initial TNM-stage: T2N2M0-(stage III). Finding: Right breast lesion (6.1cm2, SUVmax=15.2), associated with metastases to right internal mammary lymph node, two right axillary lymph nodes, and sclerotic lesions in right scapula. Final TNM-stage: T2N3M1-(stage IV). Patient-3: Initial TNM-stage: T2N0M1-(stage III). Finding: Left breast lesion (11.1cm2, SUVmax=18.8), associated with metastases to two lymph nodes in left hilum, and three lesions in both lungs. Final TNM-stage: T2N2M1-(stage IV). Patient-4: Initial TNM-stage: T4N1M1-(stage III). Finding: Four lesions in upper outer quadrant area of right breast (largest: 12.7cm2, SUVmax=18.6), in addition to one lesion in left breast (4.8cm2, SUVmax=7.1), associated with metastases to multiple lesions in liver (largest: 11.4cm2, SUV=8.0), and two bony-lytic lesions in left scapula and cervicle-1. No evidence of regional or distant lymph node involvement. Final TNM-stage: T4N0M2-(stage IV). Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that 18FDG-PET/CT scans had significantly changed the TNM stages of breast cancer patients. While the T factor was unchanged, N and M factors showed significant variations. A single session of PET/CT scan was effective in detecting active extra lymph nodes and distant occult metastases, which were not identified by conventional diagnostic techniques, and might advantageously replace bone scan, and contrast enhanced CT of chest, abdomen and pelvis. Applying 18FDG-PET/CT scan early in the investigation, might shorten diagnosis time, helps deciding adequate treatment protocol, and could improve patients’ quality of life and survival. Trapping of 18FDG in malignant lesion cells, after a PET/CT scan, increases the retention index (RI%) for a considerable time, which might help localize sentinel lymph node for biopsy using a hand held gamma probe detector. Future work is required to demonstrate its utility. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=axillary%20lymph%20nodes" title="axillary lymph nodes">axillary lymph nodes</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=breast%20cancer%20staging" title=" breast cancer staging"> breast cancer staging</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=fluorodeoxyglucose%20positron%20emission%20tomography%2Fcomputed%20tomography" title=" fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography"> fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=lymph%20nodes" title=" lymph nodes"> lymph nodes</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/69254/a-case-study-on-utility-of-18fdg-petct-scan-in-identifying-active-extra-lymph-nodes-and-staging-of-breast-cancer" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/69254.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">313</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">4</span> Restoring Total Form and Function in Patients with Lower Limb Bony Defects Utilizing Patient-Specific Fused Deposition Modelling- A Neoteric Multidisciplinary Reconstructive Approach</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Divya%20SY.%20Ang">Divya SY. Ang</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Mark%20B.%20Tan"> Mark B. Tan</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Nicholas%20EM.%20Yeo"> Nicholas EM. Yeo</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Siti%20RB.%20Sudirman"> Siti RB. Sudirman</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Khong%20Yik%20Chew"> Khong Yik Chew</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Introduction: The importance of the amalgamation of technological and engineering advances with surgical principles of reconstruction cannot be overemphasized. With earlier detection of cancer, consequences of high-speed living and neglect, like traumatic injuries and infection, resulting in increasingly younger patients with bone defects. This may result in malformations and suboptimal function that is more noticeable and palpable in the younger, active demographic. Our team proposes a technique that encapsulates a mesh of multidisciplinary effort, tissue engineering and reconstructive principles. Methods/Materials: Our patient was a young competitive footballer in his early 30s who was diagnosed with submandibular adenoid cystic carcinoma with bony involvement. He was thus counselled for a right hemi mandibulectomy, the floor of mouth resection, right selective neck dissection, tracheostomy, and free fibular flap reconstruction of his mandible and required post-operative radiotherapy. Being young and in his prime sportsman years, he was unable to accept the morbidities associated with using his fibula to reconstruct his mandible despite it being the gold standard reconstructive option. The fibula is an ideal vascularized bone flap because it’s reliable and easily shaped with relatively minimal impact on functional outcomes. The fibula contributes to 30% of weightbearing and is the attachment for the lateral compartment muscles; it is stronger in footballers concerning lateral bending. When harvesting the fibula, the distal 6-8cm and up to 10% of the total length is preserved to maintain the ankle’s stability, thus, minimizing the impact on daily activities. There are studies that have noted gait variability post-operatively. Therefore, returning to a premorbid competitive level may be doubtful. To improve his functional outcomes, the decision was made to try and restore the fibula's form and function. Using the concept of Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), our team comprising of Plastics, Otolaryngology, Orthopedics and Radiology, worked with Osteopore to design a 3D bioresorbable implant to regenerate the fibula defect (14.5cm). Bone marrow was harvested via reaming the contralateral hip prior to the wide resection. 30mls of his blood was obtained for extracting platelet rich plasma. These were packed into the Osteopore 3D-printed bone scaffold. This was then secured into the fibula defect with titanium plates and screws. The flexor hallucis longus and soleus were anchored along the construct and intraosseous membrane, done in a single setting. Results: He was reviewed closely as an outpatient over 10 months post operatively. He reported no discernable loss or difference in ankle function. He is satisfied and back in training and our team has video and photographs that substantiate his progress. Conclusion: FDM allows regeneration of long bone defects. However, we aimed to also restore his eversion and inversion that is imperative for footballers and hence reattached his previously dissected muscles along the length of the Osteopore implant. We believe that the reattachment of the muscle stabilizes not only the construct but allows optimum muscle tensioning when moving his ankle. This is a simple but effective technique in restoring complete function and form in a young patient whose minute muscle control is imperative to life. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=fused%20deposition%20modelling" title="fused deposition modelling">fused deposition modelling</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=functional%20reconstruction" title=" functional reconstruction"> functional reconstruction</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=lower%20limb%20bony%20defects" title=" lower limb bony defects"> lower limb bony defects</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=regenerative%20surgery" title=" regenerative surgery"> regenerative surgery</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=3D%20printing" title=" 3D printing"> 3D printing</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=tissue%20engineering" title=" tissue engineering"> tissue engineering</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/165790/restoring-total-form-and-function-in-patients-with-lower-limb-bony-defects-utilizing-patient-specific-fused-deposition-modelling-a-neoteric-multidisciplinary-reconstructive-approach" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/165790.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">73</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">3</span> General Evaluation of a Three-Year Holistic Physical Activity Interventions Program in Qatar Campuses: Step into Health (SIH) in Campuses 2013- 2016</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Daniela%20Salih%20Khidir">Daniela Salih Khidir</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Mohamed%20G.%20Al%20Kuwari"> Mohamed G. Al Kuwari</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Mercia%20V.%20Walt"> Mercia V. Walt</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Izzeldin%20J.%20Ibrahim"> Izzeldin J. Ibrahim</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> Background: University-based physical activity interventions aim to establish durable social patterns during the transition to adulthood. This study is a comprehensive evaluation of a 3-year intervention-based program to increase the culture of physical activity (PA) routine in Qatar campuses community, using a holistic approach. Methodology: General assessment methods: formative evaluation-SIH Campuses logic model design, stakeholders’ identification; process evaluation-members’ step counts analyze and qualitative Appreciative Inquiry session (4-D model); daily steps categorized as: ≤5,000, inactive; 5,000-7,499 low active; ≥7,500, physically active; outcome evaluation - records 3 years interventions. Holistic PA interventions methods: walking interventions - pedometers distributions and walking competitions for students and staff; educational interventions - in campuses implementation of bilingual educational materials, lectures, video related to PA in prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCD); articles published online; monthly emails and sms notifications for pedometer use; mass media campaign - radio advertising, yearly pre/post press releases; community stakeholders interventions-biyearly planning/reporting/achievements rewarding/ qualitative meetings; continuous follow-up communication, biweekly steps reports. Findings: Results formative evaluation - SIH in Campuses logic model identified the need of PA awareness and education within universities, resources, activities, health benefits, program continuity. Results process evaluation: walking interventions: Phase 1: 5 universities recruited, 2352 members, 3 months competition; Phase 2: 6 new universities recruited, 1328 members in addition, 4 months competition; Phase 3: 4 new universities recruited in addition, 1210 members, 6 months competition. Results phase 1 and 2: 1,299 members eligible for analyzes: 800 females (62%), 499 males (38%); 86% non-Qataris, 14% Qatari nationals, daily step count 5,681 steps, age groups 18–24 (n=841; 68%) students, 25–64; (n=458; 35.3%) staff; 38% - low active, 37% physically active and 25% inactive. The AI main themes engaging stakeholders: awareness/education - 5 points (100%); competition, multi levels of involvement in SIH, community-based program/motivation - 4 points each (80%). The AI points represent themes’ repetition within stakeholders’ discussions. Results education interventions: 2 videos implementation, 35 000 educational materials, 3 online articles, 11 walking benefits lectures, 40 emails and sms notifications. Results community stakeholders’ interventions: 6 stakeholders meetings, 3 rewarding gatherings, 1 focus meeting, 40 individual reports, 18 overall reports. Results mass media campaign: 1 radio campaign, 7 press releases, 52 campuses newsletters. Results outcome evaluation: overall 2013-2016, the study used: 1 logic model, 3 PA holistic interventions, partnerships 15 universities, registered 4890 students and staff (aged 18-64 years), engaged 30 campuses stakeholders and 14 internal stakeholders; Total registered population: 61.5% female (2999), 38.5% male (1891), 20.2% (988) Qatari nationals, 79.8% (3902) non-Qataris, 55.5% (2710) students aged 18 – 25 years, 44.5% (2180) staff aged 26 - 64 years. Overall campaign 1,558 members eligible for analyzes: daily step count 7,923; 37% - low active, 43% physically active and 20% inactive. Conclusion: The study outcomes confirm program effectiveness and engagement of young campuses community, specifically female, in PA. The authors recommend implementations of 'holistic PA intervention program approach in Qatar' aiming to impact the community at national level for PA guidelines achievement in support of NCD prevention. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=campuses" title="campuses">campuses</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=evaluation" title=" evaluation"> evaluation</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Qatar" title=" Qatar"> Qatar</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=step-count" title=" step-count"> step-count</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/53601/general-evaluation-of-a-three-year-holistic-physical-activity-interventions-program-in-qatar-campuses-step-into-health-sih-in-campuses-2013-2016" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/53601.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">310</span> </span> </div> </div> <div class="card paper-listing mb-3 mt-3"> <h5 class="card-header" style="font-size:.9rem"><span class="badge badge-info">2</span> Design and Construction of a Solar Dehydration System as a Technological Strategy for Food Sustainability in Difficult-to-Access Territories</h5> <div class="card-body"> <p class="card-text"><strong>Authors:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Erika%20T.%20Fajardo-Ariza">Erika T. Fajardo-Ariza</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Luis%20A.%20Castillo-Sanabria"> Luis A. Castillo-Sanabria</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Andrea%20Nieto-Veloza"> Andrea Nieto-Veloza</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=Carlos%20M.%20Zuluaga-Dom%C3%ADnguez"> Carlos M. Zuluaga-Domínguez</a> </p> <p class="card-text"><strong>Abstract:</strong></p> The growing emphasis on sustainable food production and preservation has driven the development of innovative solutions to minimize postharvest losses and improve market access for small-scale farmers. This project focuses on designing, constructing, and selecting materials for solar dryers in certain regions of Colombia where inadequate infrastructure limits access to major commercial hubs. Postharvest losses pose a significant challenge, impacting food security and farmer income. Addressing these losses is crucial for enhancing the value of agricultural products and supporting local economies. A comprehensive survey of local farmers revealed substantial challenges, including limited market access, inefficient transportation, and significant postharvest losses. For crops such as coffee, bananas, and citrus fruits, losses range from 0% to 50%, driven by factors like labor shortages, adverse climatic conditions, and transportation difficulties. To address these issues, the project prioritized selecting effective materials for the solar dryer. Various materials, recovered acrylic, original acrylic, glass, and polystyrene, were tested for their performance. The tests showed that recovered acrylic and glass were most effective in increasing the temperature difference between the interior and the external environment. The solar dryer was designed using Fusion 360® software (Autodesk, USA) and adhered to architectural guidelines from Architectural Graphic Standards. It features up to sixteen aluminum trays, each with a maximum load capacity of 3.5 kg, arranged in two levels to optimize drying efficiency. The constructed dryer was then tested with two locally available plant materials: green plantains (Musa paradisiaca L.) and snack bananas (Musa AA Simonds). To monitor performance, Thermo hygrometers and an Arduino system recorded internal and external temperature and humidity at one-minute intervals. Despite challenges such as adverse weather conditions and delays in local government funding, the active involvement of local producers was a significant advantage, fostering ownership and understanding of the project. The solar dryer operated under conditions of 31°C dry bulb temperature (Tbs), 55% relative humidity, and 21°C wet bulb temperature (Tbh). The drying curves showed a consistent drying period with critical moisture content observed between 200 and 300 minutes, followed by a sharp decrease in moisture loss, reaching an equilibrium point after 3,400 minutes. Although the solar dryer requires more time and is highly dependent on atmospheric conditions, it can approach the efficiency of an electric dryer when properly optimized. The successful design and construction of solar dryer systems in difficult-to-access areas represent a significant advancement in agricultural sustainability and postharvest loss reduction. By choosing effective materials such as recovered acrylic and implementing a carefully planned design, the project provides a valuable tool for local farmers. The initiative not only improves the quality and marketability of agricultural products but also offers broader environmental benefits, such as reduced reliance on fossil fuels and decreased waste. Additionally, it supports economic growth by enhancing the value of crops and potentially increasing farmer income. The successful implementation and testing of the dryer, combined with the engagement of local stakeholders, highlight its potential for replication and positive impact in similar contexts. <p class="card-text"><strong>Keywords:</strong> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=drying%20technology" title="drying technology">drying technology</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=postharvest%20loss%20reduction" title=" postharvest loss reduction"> postharvest loss reduction</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=solar%20dryers" title=" solar dryers"> solar dryers</a>, <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=sustainable%20agriculture" title=" sustainable agriculture"> sustainable agriculture</a> </p> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/190066/design-and-construction-of-a-solar-dehydration-system-as-a-technological-strategy-for-food-sustainability-in-difficult-to-access-territories" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Procedia</a> <a href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/190066.pdf" target="_blank" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">PDF</a> <span class="bg-info text-light px-1 py-1 float-right rounded"> Downloads <span class="badge badge-light">29</span> </span> </div> </div> <ul class="pagination"> <li class="page-item"><a class="page-link" href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=musculoskeletal%20involvement&page=44" rel="prev">&lsaquo;</a></li> <li class="page-item"><a class="page-link" href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=musculoskeletal%20involvement&page=1">1</a></li> <li class="page-item"><a class="page-link" href="https://publications.waset.org/abstracts/search?q=musculoskeletal%20involvement&page=2">2</a></li> <li class="page-item disabled"><span class="page-link">...</span></li> <li class="page-item"><a class="page-link" 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