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International Journal of Clinical... 2023The aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness of visual and sign motivation on the oral hygiene of students with hearing and speech impairment studying in special...
AIM
The aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness of visual and sign motivation on the oral hygiene of students with hearing and speech impairment studying in special schools of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A cross-sectional study was carried out on 200 students. The sample was divided into two groups. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Committee. Data were collected at three points of time-at baseline, 1st and 3rd month.
RESULTS
In the age-group, 8-13 years, on intergroup comparison of mean oral hygiene index (OHI) score, no significant difference was observed on the first visit (-value of 0.351) and second visit, respectively (-value of 0.687), but on comparing the mean simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S) score on third visit significant difference was observed (-value of 0.03) and in the age 14-18 years, on intergroup comparison of mean OHI-S score no significant difference was observed on first visit (-value of 0.593) and second visit, respectively (-value of 0.404), but on comparing the mean OHI-S score on third visit, significant difference was observed (-value of 0.018) Both the groups have shown that there was the positive impact of reinforcement on the oral hygiene of students in this age-group as well.
CONCLUSION
There was a significant improvement in oral hygiene status and a significant improvement in participant satisfaction toward oral health in both groups. Sign language video playback is not as effective and efficient in improving the maintenance of oral health in hearing and speech-impaired children as compared to sign language.
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
This study has helped in the better understanding of different methods of maintaining good oral hygiene of hearing and speech-impaired children.
HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE
Singh R, Saraf BG, Sheoran N, Comparison of Effectiveness of Visual and Sign Motivation on the Oral Hygiene of Students. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(5):671-677.
PubMed: 38162250
DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10005-2640 -
Cureus Nov 2023Introduction The literature informs us that people who are Deaf frequently struggle with health services, which contributes to lower health literacy due to communication...
Introduction The literature informs us that people who are Deaf frequently struggle with health services, which contributes to lower health literacy due to communication and language barriers. Few health professionals understand sign language, so communication between a Deaf person and a health professional may rely on a mediator, usually a family member or an interpreter, to provide communication assistance. Aim This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of healthcare workers (HCWs) at King Saud University Medical City (KSUMC) toward Deaf adult patients. Subjects and methods This cross-sectional study was conducted among HCWs at KSUMC, Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire was sent to the HCWs using an online survey. The questionnaire includes socio-demographic data (i.e., age, gender, marital status, etc.), previous interaction with Deaf patients, and KAP items. Results Of the 351 HCWs, 63.8% were females, and 41.6% were aged between 28 and 37 years old. The overall mean knowledge score was 1.14 out of 7 points. The overall mean attitude score was 46.2 out of 90 points, and the mean practice score was 19.1 out of 35 points. Significant factors of increased attitude include being a non-Saudi, being married, having children, increasing years of working experience, and being a nurse, while being a male, having previous interaction with a Deaf patient, and having skills in any type of sign language were the significant predictors of increased practice. Working in the surgery department was the only predictor associated with increased knowledge. Conclusion There was a significant deficiency, particularly with regard to knowledge and attitude toward Deaf patients. Increasing knowledge was associated with increasing practices but not with attitude. HCWs who had previous interactions with Deaf patients and had knowledge of any sign language tended to demonstrate better practice in dealing with Deaf patients. Further, longitudinal studies are needed to determine the level of KAP among HCWs in our region.
PubMed: 38161849
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49655 -
Frontiers in Neurology 2023Subjective cognitive complaints (SCC) refer to self-reported cognitive decline that may or may not be reflected in objective neuropsychological evaluations. Such SCC are...
INTRODUCTION
Subjective cognitive complaints (SCC) refer to self-reported cognitive decline that may or may not be reflected in objective neuropsychological evaluations. Such SCC are prevalent in neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease (PD), but the prevalence and clinical features in patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) have not been investigated.
METHODS
We recruited 83 PSP patients without dementia and investigated their SCC using a semi-structured interview. Comprehensive neuropsychological test results and patient clinical features were compared according to presence of SCC and underlying cognitive state.
RESULTS
Among the 83 patients, 16 had normal cognition (NC), 67 had mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 36 (43.4%) reported SCC. Among NC patients, 37.5% (6/16) had SCC, while 44.8% (30/67) of MCI patients reported SCC. There were no differences between the neuropsychological test results or demographic and clinical characteristics of PSP patients with or without SCC in the NC group. The demographic and clinical characteristics of the MCI+SCC (MCI with SCC)and MCI-SCC (MCI without SCC) groups were comparable, but the MCI+SCC group had significantly worse neuropsychological scores than the MCI-SCC group, particularly in tests assessing attention, language, visual memory, and fronto-executive function domains.
DISCUSSION
While SCC are commonly reported by PSP patients, patients with PSP and MCI+SCC had worse cognitive function than those who did not report SCC. These findings suggest that SCC in PSP patients with MCI could be a worsening sign of cognitive function. Therefore, it is crucial for physicians to assess SCC in PSP patients and to provide timely diagnosis and management of cognitive decline.
PubMed: 38156084
DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1326571 -
Heliyon Jan 2024Sign language recognition (SLR) contains the capability to convert sign language gestures into spoken or written language. This technology is helpful for deaf persons or...
Sign language recognition (SLR) contains the capability to convert sign language gestures into spoken or written language. This technology is helpful for deaf persons or hard of hearing by providing them with a way to interact with people who do not know sign language. It is also be utilized for automatic captioning in live events and videos. There are distinct methods of SLR comprising deep learning (DL), computer vision (CV), and machine learning (ML). One general approach utilises cameras for capturing the signer's hand and body movements and processing the video data for recognizing the gestures. One of challenges with SLR comprises the variability in sign language through various cultures and individuals, the difficulty of certain signs, and require for realtime processing. This study introduces an Automated Sign Language Detection and Classification using Reptile Search Algorithm with Hybrid Deep Learning (SLDC-RSAHDL). The presented SLDC-RSAHDL technique detects and classifies different types of signs using DL and metaheuristic optimizers. In the SLDC-RSAHDL technique, MobileNet feature extractor is utilized to produce feature vectors, and its hyperparameters can be adjusted by manta ray foraging optimization (MRFO) technique. For sign language classification, the SLDC-RSAHDL technique applies HDL model, which incorporates the design of Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM). At last, the RSA was exploited for the optimal hyperparameter selection of the HDL model, which resulted in an improved detection rate. The experimental result analysis of the SLDC-RSAHDL technique on sign language dataset demonstrates the improved performance of the SLDC-RSAHDL system over other existing DL techniques.
PubMed: 38148822
DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23252 -
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland) Dec 2023Human-to-human communication via the computer is mainly carried out using a keyboard or microphone. In the field of virtual reality (VR), where the most immersive...
Human-to-human communication via the computer is mainly carried out using a keyboard or microphone. In the field of virtual reality (VR), where the most immersive experience possible is desired, the use of a keyboard contradicts this goal, while the use of a microphone is not always desirable (e.g., silent commands during task-force training) or simply not possible (e.g., if the user has hearing loss). Data gloves help to increase immersion within VR, as they correspond to our natural interaction. At the same time, they offer the possibility of accurately capturing hand shapes, such as those used in non-verbal communication (e.g., thumbs up, okay gesture, …) and in sign language. In this paper, we present a hand-shape recognition system using data gloves, including data acquisition, data preprocessing, and data classification to enable nonverbal communication within VR. We investigate the impact on accuracy and classification time of using an and a approach in our data preprocessing. To obtain a more generalized approach, we also studied the impact of artificial , i.e., we created new artificial data from the recorded and filtered data to augment the training data set. With our approach, 56 different hand shapes could be distinguished with an accuracy of up to 93.28%. With a reduced number of 27 hand shapes, an accuracy of up to 95.55% could be achieved. The voting meta-classifier (VL2) proved to be the most accurate, albeit slowest, classifier. A good alternative is random forest (RF), which was even able to achieve better accuracy values in a few cases and was generally somewhat faster. was proven to be an effective approach, especially in improving the classification time. Overall, we have shown that our hand-shape recognition system using data gloves is suitable for communication within VR.
Topics: Humans; Hand; Recognition, Psychology; Gestures; Virtual Reality; Sign Language
PubMed: 38139692
DOI: 10.3390/s23249847 -
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland) Dec 2023This work addresses the design and implementation of a novel PhotoBiological Filter Classifier (PhBFC) to improve the accuracy of a static sign language translation...
This work addresses the design and implementation of a novel PhotoBiological Filter Classifier (PhBFC) to improve the accuracy of a static sign language translation system. The captured images are preprocessed by a contrast enhancement algorithm inspired by the capacity of retinal photoreceptor cells from mammals, which are responsible for capturing light and transforming it into electric signals that the brain can interpret as images. This sign translation system not only supports the effective communication between an agent and an operator but also between a community with hearing disabilities and other people. Additionally, this technology could be integrated into diverse devices and applications, further broadening its scope, and extending its benefits for the community in general. The bioinspired photoreceptor model is evaluated under different conditions. To validate the advantages of applying photoreceptors cells, 100 tests were conducted per letter to be recognized, on three different models (V1, V2, and V3), obtaining an average of 91.1% of accuracy on V3, compared to 63.4% obtained on V1, and an average of 55.5 Frames Per Second (FPS) in each letter classification iteration for V1, V2, and V3, demonstrating that the use of photoreceptor cells does not affect the processing time while also improving the accuracy. The great application potential of this system is underscored, as it can be employed, for example, in Deep Learning (DL) for pattern recognition or agent decision-making trained by reinforcement learning, etc.
Topics: Humans; Animals; Sign Language; Gestures; Neural Networks, Computer; Photoreceptor Cells; Algorithms; Mammals
PubMed: 38139492
DOI: 10.3390/s23249646 -
Journal of Imaging Nov 2023Several sign language datasets are available in the literature. Most of them are designed for sign language recognition and translation. This paper presents a new sign...
Several sign language datasets are available in the literature. Most of them are designed for sign language recognition and translation. This paper presents a new sign language dataset for automatic motion generation. This dataset includes phonemes for each sign (specified in HamNoSys, a transcription system developed at the University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany) and the corresponding motion information. The motion information includes sign videos and the sequence of extracted landmarks associated with relevant points of the skeleton (including face, arms, hands, and fingers). The dataset includes signs from three different subjects in three different positions, performing 754 signs including the entire alphabet, numbers from 0 to 100, numbers for hour specification, months, and weekdays, and the most frequent signs used in Spanish Sign Language (LSE). In total, there are 6786 videos and their corresponding phonemes (HamNoSys annotations). From each video, a sequence of landmarks was extracted using MediaPipe. The dataset allows training an automatic system for motion generation from sign language phonemes. This paper also presents preliminary results in motion generation from sign phonemes obtaining a Dynamic Time Warping distance per frame of 0.37.
PubMed: 38132680
DOI: 10.3390/jimaging9120262 -
BMC Health Services Research Dec 2023This study identified and explored how National Health Service (NHS) hearing aid clinics address cultural competence concerning Deaf British Sign Language (BSL) users....
BACKGROUND
This study identified and explored how National Health Service (NHS) hearing aid clinics address cultural competence concerning Deaf British Sign Language (BSL) users. This was approached by (i) investigating how organisational processes meet the needs of Deaf signers from a hospital and hearing aid clinic perspective, (ii) analysing policies and guidelines to investigate if they equip practitioners to meet the needs of Deaf signers and (iii) exploring with practitioners who work in hearing aid clinics about their experiences of working with Deaf signers.
METHODS
This study utilised a mixed-methods multiple case study design, incorporating documentary analysis and semi-structured interviews. Interview analysis was conducted using Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA). The research encompassed two hearing aid clinics in separate hospitals, producing 19 documents and eight interviews (four at each site) with audiologists ensuring a representative mix of professional experience levels.
RESULTS
Four themes emerged from the integrated analysis: (1) Understanding Deaf signers; (2) Communicating with Deaf signers; (3) Barriers and Facilitators and (4) Service improvement. A noticeable gap in understanding BSL as both a language and a cultural system was apparent across various policies, strategies, training programmes and staff expertise. Over-reliance on interpreters provided a false sense of accessibility and most participants felt tentative to engage directly with Deaf signers. Positive practices observed at Sites A and B encompassed accurate identification of patients as Deaf signers, improved interpreter availability, communication methods, enhanced training and the encouragement of professional self-awareness.
CONCLUSION
This is the first study that explores cultural competence of hearing aid clinics and its staff concerning Deaf signers in the UK. The results show both clinics require development to become an effective provider for culturally Deaf signers. Examples of how to design culturally competent practices have been provided to assist hearing aid clinics. The findings may be applicable to other underrepresented groups who are not typical users of conventional, acoustic hearing aids provided by the NHS.
Topics: Humans; Deafness; Sign Language; Hearing Aids; Cultural Competency; State Medicine; United Kingdom
PubMed: 38114981
DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10339-4 -
Frontiers in Psychology 2023
PubMed: 38111863
DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1334171 -
Basic and Clinical Neuroscience 2023Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive case of primary brain cancer which remains among the most fatal tumors worldwide. Although, some and models have been...
INTRODUCTION
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive case of primary brain cancer which remains among the most fatal tumors worldwide. Although, some and models have been developed for a better understanding of GBM behavior; a natural model of GBM would improve the efficiency of experimental models of human GBM tumors. We aimed the present study to examine the survival and durability of U87 cells in the brain of wild-type rats.
METHODS
U87 cells were intracranially implanted in twenty-one wild-type rats. Tumor size and morphology as well as infiltration of immune cells were investigated at three-time points by H&E and immunohistochemistry (IHC).
RESULTS
The results demonstrated that the inoculation of GBM cells led to the infiltration of host defense system cells which caused immunological regression of the tumor mass after six weeks. While the tumors successfully developed without any sign of host defense invasion in the second week of GBM inoculation. Also, a decrease in tumor size and infiltration of immune system cells were observed in the fourth week.
CONCLUSION
These data remarkably suggest that time plays a crucial role in activating the immune system against human GBM tumors in rats; it shows that the regression of tumor mass depends on a time slope.
HIGHLIGHTS
A noticeable proliferation of tumor cells was observed in the rat's brain by the second week.The distant metastatic masses of cancer infiltrated into the adjacent normal tissue by the second week.Tumor mass underwent a noticeable diminution in the size by the fourth week.Cancer cells completely regressed by the sixth week due to immunological reactions.In tumor rejection, the effective mechanism depends on immune system activity and the slope of time.
PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY
One of the most malignant tumors is the brain tumor in the world. Unfortunately, no effective treatment has yet been found for it. Of course, researchers need efficient animal models to find the appropriate treatment. The xenograft model is one of the tumor models in the laboratory. However, the main challenge is the interaction of the animal's immune system with induced-cancer cells so that the immune system finally rejects the tumor. In this study, we investigated how long the immune system needs to reject induced tumors in the xenograft model completely. For this purpose, we studied the animals in three periods (second week, fourth week, and sixth week). We concluded that the immune system does not recognize the induced cancer cells until the second week of the experiment. It results in the growth of cancer cells and the formation of tumors in the animal brain. However, the immune system begins to recognize the tumor mass after the fourth week which leads to a reduction in metastasis and tumor size. Eventually, the immune system completely rejects the formed tumor in the sixth week.
PubMed: 38107534
DOI: 10.32598/bcn.2021.3370.1