bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Book Review - Handbook of Research on K-12 Online and Blended Learning
Authors: Mayse Diane Lynn
Published: February 2017

The Handbook of Research on K-12 Online and Blended Learning, which is edited by Richard E. Ferdig and Kathryn Kennedy, is designed to be a collection of what is currently known about research in the field of K-12 online and blended learning and to serve as a resource for researchers, practitioners, and policy makers.

Richard Ferdig is an accomplished researcher and current professor of Learning and Instructional Technologies at Kent State University. His research, teaching, and service work focus on combining cutting-edge technologies with current pedagogic theory to create innovative learning environments, such as educational games and simulations. Ferdig is also the editor-in-chief of the International Journal of Gaming and Computer Mediated Simulations and the associate editor-in-chief of the Journal of Technology and Teacher Education. He currently serves as a consulting editor for the development editorial board of Educational Technology Research and Development and on the review panel of the British Journal of Educational Technology.

Kathryn Kennedy is an award-winning teacher, researcher, and professor in the area of curriculum and instruction with a focus on educational technology. Kennedy is a senior researcher at the Michigan Virtual Learning Research Institute (MVLRI)–an organization with the goals of supporting new learning models, engaging in active research to inform new policies in online and blended learning, and strengthening the infrastructure for sharing best practices. She was awarded the International Association for K-12 Online Learning (iNACOL) Online Learning Innovator Award for Outstanding Research in 2010 and 2012.

The intended audience of this book includes anyone working, researching, teaching, or interested in learning more about K-12 online and blended learning.

The editors’ purpose was to create a publicly available, free online resource to begin to synthesize the various strands of research in K-12 online and blended learning into one comprehensive catalogue.

The editors’ thesis is that this resource will strengthen further research in the K-12 online and blended learning field by clarifying what is currently known and what is currently unknown; provide empirical resources for researchers, educators, administrators, and policy officials; and begin a process of annually reexamining research in the field.
An Examination of an Online Tutoring Program’s Impact on Low-Achieving Middle School Students’ Mathematics Achievement
Authors: Chappell Shanan , Arnold Pamela , Nunnery John , Grant Melva
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this mixed methods study was to determine the impact of synchronous online tutoring services on struggling middle school students’ mathematics achievement. The online tutoring was provided as a response to intervention (RTI) Tier 3 support (intensive, individualized intervention) in schools implementing a school-wide mathematics program that addresses Tier 1 (high-quality classroom instruction) and Tier 2 (small group interventions). We employed quasi-experimental, within- and between-group designs to examine impacts for 119 students in two schools to measure the tutoring’s impact on mathematics assessment scores. We also conducted qualitative analyses of student and tutor postsession commentary. The findings suggest that the tutoring contributed to statistically significant gains in student assessment scores postintervention. Online tutors’ descriptions of their practice centered on ongoing progress monitoring of student learning, delivery of guided practice to students, the use of multiple explanations and representations of target concepts. Student perceptions of the online tutoring were predominately positive in nature.
Real-Time Virtual Teaching: Lessons Learned From a Case Study in a Rural School
Authors: Barbour Michael K.
Published: February 2017

Due to the challenges facing rural schools, many jurisdictions have resorted to the use of virtual school programs to provide curricular opportunities to their students. While the number of virtual schools that rely on synchronous instruction as a primary or significant method of delivery is quite small, there are some programs that do (and a growing number of virtual schools that use it with small groups or individuals). This case study examined the use of synchronous online instruction by one virtual school with students in a single rural school in Newfoundland and Labrador. The data from a variety of collection methods revealed three themes: similarities with online student experiences and their traditional classroom experiences, the development of local learning communities, and the preference for students to use chat over audio.
Interview with Joe Freidhoff: A Bird's Eye View of K-12 Online Learning
Authors: Pourreau Leslie
Published: February 2017

This article showcases an interview conducted with Dr. Joe Freidhoff, Executive Director of the Michigan Virtual Learning Research Institute, specifically for this special issue of the OLC Online Learning Journal. The perspectives provided by Dr. Freidhoff on the ever-changing field of K-12 online learning served two purposes: to introduce long-time profession-based journal readership to the field of K-12 online learning and to provide K-12 online learning scholars with perspective and direction for meeting the current and future needs of K-12 stakeholders.
Assessing the Reliability of Merging Chickering & Gamson’s Seven Principles for Good Practice with Merrill’s Different Levels of Instructional Strategy (DLISt7)
Authors: Jabar Syaril Izwann
Published: February 2017

Based on Chickering and Gamson’s (1987) Seven Principles for Good Practice, this research project attempted to revitalize the principles by merging them with Merrill’s (2006) Different Levels of Instructional Strategy. The aim was to develop, validate, and standardize a measurement instrument (DLISt7) using a pretest-posttest Internet quasi-experiment. It was proposed that the instrument could then be used as a rubric either for facilitating the implementation of DLISt7, or as a set of unobtrusive diagnostic indicators for assessing the quality of learning experienced by students in blended and online courses. The study was conducted across five faculties at a regional Australian multi-campus university. The intent was to contribute to knowledge building by leveraging the data that had been collected, analyzed, and reported to generate awareness about the likelihood of scaffolding and scaling, varying levels of instructional strategies for communicating expectations, and relaying information. The idea was to produce a tool that would create more opportunities for more of the principles to be put to good use as an effectiveness multiplier. The findings from the analysis conducted using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis verified the validity of DLISt7 and demonstrated excellent internal reliability values.
Using Learning Analytics to Identify Medical Student Misconceptions in an Online Virtual Patient Environment
Authors: Poitras Eric G , Naismith Laura , Doleck Tenzin , Lajoie Susanne P
Published: February 2017

This study aimed to identify misconceptions in medical student knowledge by mining user interactions in the MedU online learning environment. Data from 13000 attempts at a single virtual patient case were extracted from the MedU MySQL database. A subgroup discovery method was applied to identify patterns in learner-generated annotations and responses to multiple-choice items on the diagnosis and management of acute myocardial infarction (i.e., heart attack). First, the algorithm generated rules where single terms from the learner annotations were used to predict incorrect answers to the multiple-choice items. Second, the possible combinations of terms and their relevant synonyms were used to determine whether their inclusion led to better rates of prediction. The second step was found to significantly increase prediction precision and weighted relative accuracy, uncovering four misconceptions at a rate greater than 70%. These findings serve to inform the design of an adaptive system that tailors the delivery of formative feedback to promote better learning outcomes in the domain of clinical reasoning.
Examining Interactive and Metacognitive Processes in Student Learning: Findings from a Hybrid Instructional Environment
Authors: Meyers Shelly , Feeney Linda
Published: February 2017

This study examines the interaction behaviors and metacognitive behaviors of graduate students in the online portion of a flipped classroom. For their time outside the face to face classroom, students were given the choice of two online methods for their interactions -- synchronous verbal discussions and asynchronous written discussions. Students were provided a detailed outline for their discussions. Discussions were analyzed and interactive and metacognitive behaviors were categorized and counted. Interaction behaviors and metacognitive behaviors were present in both environments. Synchronous verbal discussions were found to include significantly more interaction behaviors in five of six categories. There was no significant difference in the number of metacognitive behaviors. Students demonstrated the same level of learning behaviors in both environments.
A National Study of Differences between Distance and Non-distance Community College Students in Time to First Associate Degree Attainment, Transfer, and Dropout
Authors: Shea Peter , Bidjerano Temi
Published: February 2017

Abstract

Previous research indicates that online learning at the community college level results in higher rates of withdrawal, failure, and dropout compared to classroom-based education (Xu & Smith Jaggars, 2011; Smith-Jaggars & Xu, 2010). The primary goal of the current study was to examine national data (US Dept. of Ed. Beginning Postsecondary Student Survey, 2004-09) on three outcomes for community college students with and without online education experiences. The outcomes were attainment of first associate degree, transfer, and dropout. In contrast to previous research, compared to exclusively classroom-based students, results suggest significantly more students who had engaged in online education had attained an associate degree at the end of the observation period. There were no significant differences in transfer or dropout. These results are interpreted with regard to their implications for policy and practice.
Culturally Responsive Teaching Knowledge and Practices of Online Faculty
Authors: Heitner Keri L. , Jennings Miranda
Published: February 2017

Cultural differences between faculty and their students can create important challenges that affect the quality and efficacy of online teaching and learning. The objectives of this study were to: (a) create and pilot test an assessment for online faculty to measure culturally responsive teaching knowledge (CRT) and culturally responsive educational practices (CREP) in teaching and advising students of color, military students, LGBTQ students, religious minority students, and international students; (b) describe participants’ CRT knowledge, value, and CREP; and (c) examine differences between their knowledge and their practices. The combined pilot and main study sample was comprised of 47 completed surveys. Internal consistency reliability was high for all subscales (.895-.970); subscale intra-class correlation coefficients ranged from .526-.833. The pilot round revealed strong face and content validity. Campbell-Fiske multitrait-multimethod matrix generated evidence of construct validity. Within-group comparisons of subscale scores using Wilcoxon Signed-ranks test revealed some significant differences between perceived knowledge and practice. Mann Whitney U test did not reveal significant differences in subscale scores or overall score by sector, degree level taught, or gender. The results have important implications for faculty training, professional development, mentoring, and support. Faculty who teach online who understand and value culturally responsive pedagogy and have the knowledge and skills to implement best practices in meeting the needs of diverse learners will enhance both teaching and learning. Culturally responsive knowledges and practice are particularly important as online programs are becoming ubiquitous across traditional institutions of higher education and their core faculty are teaching an increasingly diverse student body.
Students' Perceptions of Learner-Learner Interactions that Weaken a Sense of Community in an Online Learning Environment
Authors: Phirangee Krystle
Published: February 2017

Despite the growth of its popularity in recent years, online learning has demonstrated high dropout rates compared to dropout rates in traditional face-to-face courses. Prior research attributes attrition to the physical isolation of students from one another and the lack of interaction between and among them—factors which foster feelings of alienation, isolation, and disconnection. The goal of this research study was to more deeply understand the causes of such negative feelings, which may eventually lead students to drop out of online courses. More specifically, this study adopted a qualitative approach by interviewing six graduate students to further explore which specific learner-learner interactions weaken online students’ sense of community. Seven learner-learner, interactions were identified: the keener, lack of meaningful data, selective listening, lack of attribution, going off on tangents, editing notes, and cultural exclusion.
Semiotika: Sebuah Pendekatan dalam Studi Agama
Authors: Khotimah Khusnul
Published: February 2017

Semiotic is a science about sign in form word, picture, sound and literary work. Semiotic often used asapproach to analyze text, in order to formulate structure and possible meaning, and often used as approach in socialculture matter, literary works and religious texts. In religious texts, we can see Arkoun’s reading on surah al-Fatihah, when basicassumes offered by Arkoun based on al-Qur’an that according to him have open characteristic by using syntax andsemantic analysis. Netton also using semiotic approach that focused to reveal meaning behind Suhrawardi works.
Continuous radiotelemetric monitoring of intragastric pH in a dog with peptic ulceration
Authors: Lane Michael B. , Larson Jeanne C. , Stokes Jennifer E. , Tolbert M. Katherine
Published: February 2017

CASE DESCRIPTION A 6-year-old castrated male Boxer was evaluated for a 5-week history of frequent vomiting, melena, and signs of abdominal pain following accidental ingestion of 5 to ten 15-mg meloxicam tablets (approx ingested dose, 3.1 to 6.2 mg/kg [1.4 to 2.8 mg/lb]).

CLINICAL FINDINGS Clinical signs persisted despite 3 weeks of treatment with sucralfate (41.8 mg/kg [19 mg/lb], PO, q 8 h) and omeprazole (0.8 mg/kg [0.36 mg/lb], PO, q 24 h). Results of a CBC and serum biochemical analysis were unremarkable. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed peptic ulceration, and esophagogastroduodenoscopy confirmed the presence of severe proximal duodenal ulceration.

TREATMENT AND OUTCOME A radiotelemetric pH-monitoring capsule was placed in the gastric fundus under endoscopic guidance for continuous at-home monitoring of intragastric pH and response to treatment. Treatment was continued with sucralfate (as previously prescribed) and omeprazole at an increased administration frequency (0.8 mg/kg, PO, q 12 h). Intragastric pH was consistently ≥ 3.0 for > 75% of the day during treatment, with the exception of 1 day when a single dose of omeprazole was inadvertently missed. Ulceration and clinical signs completely resolved.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE Continuous radiotelemetric monitoring of intragastric pH in the dog of this report was useful for confirming that treatment achieved a predetermined target pH and for demonstrating the impact of missed doses. Duodenal ulceration resolved with twice-daily but not once-daily omeprazole administration. Findings suggested that twice-daily administration of omeprazole may be necessary to achieve this target pH and that a pH ≥ 3.0 for 75% of the day may promote healing of peptic ulcers in dogs.
Transseptal Access with Crossing Multiple Incisions for Improved Pedicle Control and Septum Preservation: “How I do it”
Authors: Omura Kazuhiro , Asaka Daiya , Nayak Jayakar V. , Tanaka Yasuhiro
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Recently, the surgical management of nasal tumors has been greatly influenced by advanced endoscopic techniques. To achieve complete endoscopic resection of large obstructing nasal tumors, a sufficient corridor for adequate exposure is also required. In the Japanese language, TACMI means “master expert,” and herein we describe an endoscopic technique with novel elements that we term transseptal access with crossing multiple incisions (TACMI). This approach enables a direct transseptal approach to the pedicle through tumor transposition while allowing complete septal reconstruction and stability.

Methods

We prospectively collected data from eight patients who underwent the TACMI approach for sinonasal tumors.

Results

When using TACMI, complete en bloc neoplasm resection was achieved in all but one patient, who underwent piecemeal tumor removal. The follow-up duration ranged from 10 to 28 months (mean, 19 months). None of the patients experienced septal perforation, nasal valve incompetence, or tumor recurrence.

Conclusion

We presented evidence that TACMI was a simple, efficient, and effective technique for tumor transposition, and for pedicle visualization and access of challenging unilateral sinonasal lesions. These advantages contributed to limited blood loss, improved pedicle control, and complete nasal valve and septum preservation without functional deficits.
Interim estimates of 2016/17 vaccine effectiveness against influenza A(H3N2), Canada, January 2017
Authors: Skowronski Danuta M , Chambers Catharine , Sabaiduc Suzana , Dickinson James A , Winter Anne-Luise , De Serres Gaston , Drews Steven J , Jassem Agatha , Gubbay Jonathan B , Charest Hugues , Balshaw Robert , Bastien Nathalie , Li Yan , Krajden Mel
Published: February 2017

Using a test-negative design, the Canadian Sentinel Practitioner Surveillance Network (SPSN) assessed interim 2016/17 influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE) against dominant influenza A(H3N2) viruses considered antigenically matched to the clade 3C.2a vaccine strain. Sequence analysis revealed substantial heterogeneity in emerging 3C.2a1 variants by province and over time. Adjusted VE was 42% (95% confidence interval: 18–59%) overall, with variation by province. Interim virological and VE findings reported here warrant further investigation to inform potential vaccine reformulation.
Is a cardiac catheterization procedure at hospitals without on-site surgical backup safe?
Authors: Regmi S R , Dhital B M , Sharma B
Published: February 2017

Percutaneous cardiac catheterization procedures have now become an established and preferable method. Initially, these procedures were performed at clinical sites with surgical backup as complication rates and need of urgent surgery were high. With the improvement in catheter technique, experienced operators and the development of new devices, overall complication rates of catheterization are low and emergency cardiac surgery has become an increasingly rare event. The aim of the study was to evaluate the procedural outcomes for cardiac interventions in a tertiary-level hospital without onsite cardiac surgery backup. This was a prospective descriptive study. All consecutive patients who were admitted for percutaneous cardiac interventions, including both diagnostic as well as therapeutic interventions, between September 2013 and August 2015 were included in this study. Total 692 percutaneous cardiac interventions were performed. The mean age was 61.9 ± 18.3 years. 439(63.52%) procedures were carried out in men. PCI was done in 189(27 .31%). Percuteneous transvenous mitral comissurotomy was done in 49(7.08%) cases, coronary angiogram was done in 395(57.08%), permanent pacemaker insertion in 29(4.20%), peripheral angiogram in 16(2.30%), pericardiocentesis in 14(2 .02%).Primary PCI was done in 62(32.88%). The most frequent indication for PCI was STEMI 106(56.16%). Complications like Post-procedural cardiogenic shock in 4 (2.11%) cases, arrhythmias and minor complications in 7 (3.70%), and death in 4 (2.11%) patients was witnessed. Similarly, periprocedural MI and contrast induced nephropathy (CIN) requiring dialysis stroke or transient ischemic attack were not noted.Cardiac tamponade was observed in 1 (2.02%) patient during PTMC. There was no need of emergency cardiac surgery Percutaneous cardiac intervention was feasible with acceptable complications in a tertiary-level hospital without onsite cardiac surgery backup.
Is a cardiac catheterization procedure at hospitals without on-site surgical backup safe?
Authors: Regmi S R , Dhital B M , Sharma B
Published: February 2017

Percutaneous cardiac catheterization procedures have now become an established and preferable method. Initially, these procedures were performed at clinical sites with surgical backup as complication rates and need of urgent surgery were high. With the improvement in catheter technique, experienced operators and the development of new devices, overall complication rates of catheterization are low and emergency cardiac surgery has become an increasingly rare event. The aim of the study was to evaluate the procedural outcomes for cardiac interventions in a tertiary-level hospital without onsite cardiac surgery backup. This was a prospective descriptive study. All consecutive patients who were admitted for percutaneous cardiac interventions, including both diagnostic as well as therapeutic interventions, between September 2013 and August 2015 were included in this study. Total 692 percutaneous cardiac interventions were performed. The mean age was 61.9 ± 18.3 years. 439(63.52%) procedures were carried out in men. PCI was done in 189(27 .31%). Percuteneous transvenous mitral comissurotomy was done in 49(7.08%) cases, coronary angiogram was done in 395(57.08%), permanent pacemaker insertion in 29(4.20%), peripheral angiogram in 16(2.30%), pericardiocentesis in 14(2 .02%).Primary PCI was done in 62(32.88%). The most frequent indication for PCI was STEMI 106(56.16%). Complications like Post-procedural cardiogenic shock in 4 (2.11%) cases, arrhythmias and minor complications in 7 (3.70%), and death in 4 (2.11%) patients was witnessed. Similarly, periprocedural MI and contrast induced nephropathy (CIN) requiring dialysis stroke or transient ischemic attack were not noted.Cardiac tamponade was observed in 1 (2.02%) patient during PTMC. There was no need of emergency cardiac surgery Percutaneous cardiac intervention was feasible with acceptable complications in a tertiary-level hospital without onsite cardiac surgery backup.
Effects of exercise on pulmonary function tests: A comparative study between athletes and non-athletes in Nepalese settings
Authors: Mahotra N B , Amatya T M , Rana B SJB , Banstola D
Published: February 2017

Due to regular exercises, athletes tend to have an increase in pulmonary functions when compared to non exercising individuals, especially when the exercise is strenuous. Intensity and severity of sports engaged in by the athletes determines the extent of strengthening of the inspiratory muscles with a resultant increase in the lung volumes and capacities. Pulmonary parameters like tidal volume and forced vital capacity are significantly higher in athletes than in non athletes. A cross sectional comparative study was carried out in national sports council, Tribhuvan army club and institute of medicine, Kathmandu, Nepal. The athletes were footballers from Tribhuvan army club and sprinters from national sports council. The non-athletes were medical students from the institute of medicine, Kathmandu. Data were collected after performing spirometry and mean values were compared between athletes and non-athletes. Pulmonary functions were assessed based on forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) expressed as percent predicted for the age, sex, height, weight and race. Spirometry was performed in 169 subjects, out of which 84 were athletes and 85 were non-athletes. Athletes had a significantly superior FVC (P =0.00) compared to non-athletes. FEV1 was also recorded significantly higher in athletes than in non-athletes (P=0.023). Athletes have better pulmonary function tests than non-athletes because exercise in athletes strengthens the muscles of respiration.
Knowledge and attitude towards infection control among supporting staffs of Chitwan Medical College, Bharatpur, Chitwan
Authors: Lopchan M , Gurung G , Rajbanshi L , Osti C , Baniya A
Published: February 2017

Nosocomial infections (NIs) are one of the most important health issues, particularly in developing countries, because these infections cause high mortality and morbidity, and economic and human resource loss as a consequence Nosocomial infections can be defined as those occurring within 48 hours of hospital admission, 3 days of discharge or 30 days of an operation. Many studies have examined risk factors of nosocomial infections. However, knowledge of frontline workers (attendants) in infection prevention have been reported rarely in developing countries. The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge of attendants working in different wards and OPDs about infection prevention. S: Data were collected from 100 attendants in Chitwan Medical College Teaching Hospital. Regarding the knowledge on hand washing, gloving and personal accessories for Infection Prevention, majority of the respondents had good knowledge ranging from 94-100%. Though hospital has established Infection Prevention Committee and regular training on infection prevention is provided to all the staffs, the data indicated that only 68% respondents were benefitted by the infection prevention training and proper use of virex solution to disinfect the equipment’s was found unsatisfactory. Infection control is the responsibility of all Health Care Facility (HCF) personnel. The goal of the infection control policies are to identify and reduce risks of acquiring and transmitting infections among patients, staff, students, volunteers, contract service workers, and visitors Although significant effort has been made to reduce the Nosocomial infections, regular training as well as monitoring supervision will enhance the capacity of the health care providers and front line workers for cleaning services they are our valued respondents.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmc.v6i1.55069
Scalp swelling of long duration
Authors: Dahal P , Rai S M
Published: February 2017

Malignant tumors occurring in the scalp are uncommon. When scalp swellings are asymptomatic, small in size or covered by hair usually they are neglected by patients. This may lead to a potential risk of delay in detection and treatment which may cause poorer results. Here we are presenting the case of scalp swelling of unknown duration and pre-operative investigation had showed benign lesion and was managed accordingly but post operatively it was found malignant and metastasized rapidly and become incurable. So any unusual, ulcerated/pigmented lesion of the scalp we must consider the possibility of a tumor and reconstruction with flap should be done after confirmation of the diagnosis.
Finding the Balance: Uncovering Resilience in the Veterinary Literature
Authors: Cake Martin A. , McArthur Michelle M. , Matthew Susan M. , Mansfield Caroline F.
Published: February 2017

Resilience is an issue of emerging importance in veterinary education and research, as in other professional contexts. The aim of this study was to perform an appraisal of how resilience is portrayed in the contemporary (1995–present) research and education literature around veterinary mental health, and to attempt a provisional synthesis informing a conception of resilience in the veterinary context. Qualitative analysis of the literature (59 sources included) revealed a dominant emphasis on mental health problems, particularly stress, which outweighs and potentially obscures complementary approaches to well-being and resilience. We found the construct of resilience underdeveloped in the veterinary literature and in need of further research, but provide a preliminary synthesis of key themes emerging from the current literature (emotional competence, motivation, personal resources, social support, organizational culture, life balance, and well-being strategies). We advocate for greater balance between complementary perspectives in veterinary mental health education and research, and propose that an increasing focus on resilience (here endorsed as a dynamic and multi-dimensional process involving personal and contextual resources, strategies, and outcomes) will help to address this balance.
Development of a New Scale to Measure Ambiguity Tolerance in Veterinary Students
Authors: Hammond Jennifer A. , Hancock Jason , Martin Margaret S. , Jamieson Susan , Mellor Dominic J.
Published: February 2017

The ability to cope with ambiguity and feelings of uncertainty is an essential part of professional practice. Research with physicians has identified that intolerance of ambiguity or uncertainty is linked to stress, and some authors have hypothesized that there could be an association between intolerance of ambiguity and burnout. We describe the adaptation of the TAMSAD (Tolerance of Ambiguity in Medical Students and Doctors) scale for use with veterinary students. Exploratory factor analysis supports a uni-dimensional structure for the Ambiguity tolerance construct. Although internal reliability of the 29-item TAMSAD scale is reasonable (α=.50), an alternative 27-item scale (drawn from the original 41 items used to develop TAMSAD) shows higher internal reliability for veterinary students (α=.67). We conclude that there is good evidence to support the validity of this latter TAVS (Tolerance of Ambiguity in Veterinary Students) scale to study ambiguity tolerance in veterinary students.
Veterinary Students' Perspectives on Resilience and Resilience-Building Strategies
Authors: Moffett Jenny E. , Bartram David J.
Published: February 2017

In recent years, resilience has been lauded as a valuable, even necessary, facet of an effective veterinary practitioner. This study describes a mixed-methods research exploration of the impact of a self-care and mental well-being teaching intervention on the self-reported resilience of 105 first-year veterinary students enrolled at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, UK. Quantitative data were obtained through a questionnaire, the 10-item Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC 10), which students completed before and after the teaching intervention. The median total score on the scale increased from 27 (IQR=25–30) to 29 (IQR=26–32) (p<.001), a medium effect size (r=−0.28). Student focus groups were held to allow qualitative data analysis of the students' perspectives on the teaching intervention and on the topic of resilience in general. The results of this study suggest that appropriate training in resilience-building strategies can help veterinary students build greater awareness of resilience, and potentially support their development of a more resilient approach in their personal and professional lives. In this study, veterinary students felt that resilience training was a valuable addition to the veterinary curriculum, and that resilience likely plays an important role in achieving a successful veterinary career. The study also suggested that veterinary students utilize a variety of different resilience-building strategies, including drawing on past experiences, seeking help from support networks, and developing an ability to change their perspectives.
Potential Effects of Heavy Vehicles on Operations of Super 2 Highways
Authors: Brewer Marcus A. , Fitzpatrick Kay
Published: February 2017

Increasing volumes, specifically heavy truck volumes, have an increasingly greater effect on operations on the nation’s two-lane highways. Various strategies have been implemented to reduce delay and increase capacity, particularly the use of marked passing zones and the addition of periodic passing lanes to allow faster vehicles to pass slower vehicles and to disperse platoons. However, much existing guidance and previous research focused on those design features in the context of passenger vehicles. As the volume of heavy vehicles increases, particularly in high-demand corridors such as those related to energy exploration or manufacturing distribution, so does the number of individual trucks and truck convoys that can further erode operational characteristics on two-lane highways. This paper summarizes existing guidance and recent literature on passing treatments and design guidelines for passing sight distance, passing lanes, and passing zones. This paper also presents results from a proof-of-concept exercise to demonstrate potential effects of trucks on extending the lengths of passing sight distance for certain scenarios.
Functional Classification System to Aid Contextual Design
Authors: Stamatiadis Nikiforos , Kirk Adam , Jasper Jeff , Wright Samantha
Published: February 2017

A proposed functional classification system has been developed to address context and multimodal accommodation of the existing classification system. The proposed functional classification system is intended to facilitate optimal geometric design solutions while accounting for context, user needs, and functions. The new classification system communicates improved information to the designer so that balanced designs can be achieved through documented prioritization of roadway users. The proposed functional classification system identifies user groups, which include drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Fundamental design elements for each mode are identified, and design ranges for each are provided according to the overall roadway network type. The correlation results of context, roadway types, and users are displayed in the expanded functional classification system matrix, allowing for the development of a multimodal, context-based design with some degree of flexibility. Each matrix cell defines the various users (drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians) and identifies those characteristics to be balanced.
Operational and Safety Performance Investigation of Skew Superelevation Runoff
Authors: Aoun Joelle , Apostoleris Konstantinos , Psarianos Basil , Choueiri Elias
Published: February 2017

Hydroplaning and the corresponding hydroplaning speed of a vehicle are critical road safety concerns. To avoid hydroplaning, nine technical measures are available. One of the most effective is the construction of skew superelevation runoff at the critical pavement section of a highway, especially in highway rehabilitation and reconstruction projects. The concept was introduced in the German RAS-L design guide of 1984; its implementation is found mainly in central European countries. Skew superelevation runoff was adopted in recent freeway projects, some of which are reconstructions of existing two-lane highways into freeways to address identified sections with high potential for hydroplaning. Its use under normal traffic has resulted in concerns about its safety and comfort effectiveness. To investigate the operational and safety performance of the constructed skew superelevation runoffs, accurate triaxial acceleration measurements were carried out on the Korinthos-Patra freeway in Greece for a combination of vehicles and speeds along these skew superelevation runoff sections. Resulting limitational thresholds were shown to be adequate for safe operation of the skew superelevation runoff. Vehicle occupant comfort thresholds, however, are narrow and require specific additional construction improvements when design values are not observed.
Acceptability and Feasibility of Reducing Unsafe Abortion through Medication among Early Pregnant Women who are Attending in RHSTEP at DMCH
Authors: Akther Lutfa , Nesa Ayatun , Hossain Muhammad Belal , Hauque Zuhaina Noor , Sultana Quazi Suraiya
Published: February 2017

Background: Over the past two decades, the health evidence, technologies and human rights rationale for providing safe, comprehensive abortion care have evolved greatly. Unsafe abortion is one of the four main causes of maternal mortality and morbidity.Material & Methods: A prospective study were done from December, 2013 to January, 2015, over 13th months in RHSTEP at DMCH. Pregnant women of 5-9 weeks of pregnancy wanted to terminate their pregnancy were included in this study. Pregnant women had over 9th week of pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy and severe anemia were excluded from this study. A total 294 patients were enrolled in this study and MRM service was given them.Results: Among the 294 patients 268 (91%) found successful termination of pregnancy and 26 (8.8%) patients found unsuccessful termination. In these 26 patients, 24 had incomplete abortion and two had viable pregnancy (failed MRM). Most of the patients complained of moderate bleeding (156) and pain (182) after taking medication but some of them revealed excessive bleeding (138) and marked pain relieved by pain killer (112). Some of them also had fever (76), nausea (82), diarrhea (12), vertigo (30) and few also found itching palm (05) and oral ulcer (02). 87% patients told overall side effects were acceptable and 8 % said natural & only 5 % found unacceptable. On interview about the satisfaction of the patients in using this method for early termination, 90 % patients were satisfied with this method.Conclusion: Menstrual regulation with medication (MRM) using mifepristone and misoprostol is a safe, effective and acceptable method for early termination of pregnancy. Expansion of this service will reduce unsafe abortion in our country.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 7, No. 1: Jan 2016, P 23-27
Isolation and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of Urinary Escherichia Coli in Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Tashmin Afroz Binte , Shamsuzzaman SM , Rahman Irin , Ferdousi Faria
Published: February 2017

Background: Escherichia coli is the major bacterial pathogen being isolated and reported from urine, globally. For these uropathogens the therapeutic management becomes limited, so knowledge about the antimicrobial resistance pattern of these agents at a specific area may help the doctors to choose correct treatment regimen. The aim of the current study was to detect the common uropathogens from urine and the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Escherichia coli in Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH).Methods: Samples were collected over a period of 12 months from July 2011 to June 2012 from the patients of DMCH irrespective of age and sex. Samples were cultured in blood agar and MacConkey agar media and organisms were identified by different biochemical tests such as oxidase test, reaction in MIU and simmon's citrate media and different sugar fermentation tests. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel (2007).Results: From total 300 urine samples, 177 (59%) Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria were isolated. Among them, Esch. coli was the most predominant 112 (63.28%) organism followed by Enterobacter spp. (11.87%). The prevalence of Esch. coli was significantly higher in females (63.39%) of younger age group than in males (36.61%). Esch. coli was highly sensitive to imipenem (100%) followed by ceftriaxone (62.50%), ceftazidime (55.36%) and azitromycin (35.72%) respectively. Low sensitivity patterns were found against doxycycline (13.39%), co-trimoxazole (16.07%), amoxiclav (21.43%) and ciprofloxacin (23.22%) respectively.Conclusion: The result of this study provides insight into the high proportion of multidrug resistant Escherichia coli and creates a need to report them routinely in laboratories.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 7, No. 1: Jan 2016, P 40-44
An Overview of Reports on Clinical Case Report
Authors: Khan Md Abdul Wohab , Arif Abdus Salam
Published: February 2017

Case reports represent the oldest and most familiar form of medical communication. It is one of the best ways for the beginners to get familiar with scholarly writing. It is the time-honored vehicle for medical teaching. It is also the foundational 'building block' of scientific inquiry. Unfortunately from late 1970s in scientific community there was a tendency to see the case report as least important and a 'second class' publication. The authors tried to find out how this 'fertile seeds' were cultivated and valued by the scientific community. Articles on case reports were collected consecutively by daisy chaining from web and published journals. Many logical arguments are found in favor of encouraging in writing and publishing case reports. There are also issues to be addressed further. Diversified criteria and stylescan be followed. Uniqueness is not the only principle, any information which someone find useful and beneficial in clinical practice can be presented as case report. Facts in a case report can be considered as one of the weakest evidence and should not be considered as anecdotal information. To make others aware of unusual presentationsor complications;case report is the rapid and effective means of communication.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 7, No. 1: Jan 2016, P 50-55
Foods For People With Kidney Diseases: Fundamental Guidelines & Choice
Authors: Rahman Md Mahfuzar , Mahmood Nazneen , Rahman Md Atiqur , Sajani Tabassum Tahmin , Alo Kamrunnahar
Published: February 2017

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) leads to increased cardiovascular mortality and a loss of disabilityadjusted life years. In addition lack of data / information in most low- and middle-income countries made it difficult to ascertain the true burden. Moreover, high incidence and prevalence of CKD is being driven by regional and global increase in the prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus (DM), hypertension, obesity and aging in particular. Community surveys indicate people with end-stage kidney disease are only the tip of "CKD iceberg." Therefore, preventive strategies of CKD must involve educating the population creating public awareness with early detection of CKD. The paper highlights categories of healthy foods for the people with kidney diseases for one's better choice and alternatives in choosing one's meal plan. Therefore, to deal with CKD emphasis should be given on people's awareness about fundamental guidelines and choice of available foods in order to prepare a kidney friendly diet towards better and prolong life.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 7, No. 1: Jan 2016, P 56-59
Raphaël Hythlodée et l’utopique Cité des Anges
Authors: Mancel François
Published: February 2017

This article wishes to elucidate two capital mysteries of Thomas More’s Utopia, which have remained unsolved nearly five hundred years after its publication: who hides behind the fictional portrait of Raphael Hythloday? And can we discover a plausible model of the island of Utopia somewhere on earth, in Thomas More’s time? This study shows that the never really abandoned thesis of recognizing Erasmus in Hythloday, is today reinforced by new suggestions, even if Erasmus is to share the embodiment of Hythloday with a Portuguese adventurer-writer. Besides, and although Thomas More asserts that Raphael is back from the Southern hemisphere, this essay also wishes to point out the surprising similarities between the Utopian island, with its capital Amaurot, and 16th century Siam, a land which, in Hythloday’s view, offered a reversed image of England.
“Colour” that Fails “To Set”: Unethical Persuasion and the Nature of Rhetoric in More’s History of King Richard III
Authors: Beier Benjamin V.
Published: February 2017

In The History of King Richard III, Thomas More presents a tyrant whose skill in speaking we often take for granted. This article, however, provides a more complicated view of the sophistic Duke of Gloucester. While More evokes the Roman ideal-orator tradition when describing Richard and while the future King and his henchmen give speeches that help Richard secure the throne, these acts of persuasion usually fail to persuade audiences. Such failures disclose More’s (limited) epistemological confidence in the ability of human beings to see through false appearances. This belief, in turn, helps to reveal More’s conviction – which he dramatizes in The History – about the nature of rhetoric: true and apt words are more persuasive than sophistic falsehoods that are delivered with equal skill.
The City of the Sun : a Machiavellian Utopia?
Authors: Monteiro Regina Maria Carpentieri
Published: February 2017

Tommaso Campanella, in The City of the Sun, a utopian text written in 1602, transfers his political philosophy to fiction. A priest, named “Metaphysician” or “Hoh,” assisted by a triumvirate – Pon (Power), Sin (Wisdom) and Mor (Love) – governs a republic of wise men, in which religion and politics form a single unit. The Calabrian philosopher has always defended the union of all people under the aegis of a single monarch, who holds laic and ecclesiastical powers. Machiavelli defends the notion that it is men’s duty to build and to conduct state politics, and that only concrete reality can provide its characteristics and principles. On the other hand, Campanella believes that the precepts by which men must be ruled can be found in nature. Therefore, a community will be happier if it exists in a closer relationship with nature. The main purpose of this communication lies in an examination of The City of the Sun, considering these two points of view.
The Lion and the Fox: an Unholy Animal Kingdom
Authors: Cro Stelio
Published: February 2017

This article compares the History of Richard III (1512) of Thomas More and The Prince (1513) of Niccolò Machiavelli. More attributes to Richard III a detailed list of moral vices that leaves no doubt as to his very negative view of Richard. On the other hand, in The Prince, Machiavelli deals with contemporary events without moral or religious preoccupations. In essence, for More history is “magistra vitae”, as long as the Christian values are conveyed by the historian, whereas for Machiavelli history’s lesson is valid regardless of religious and/or moral issues.
Wings and Crosses: Boethius’s De Consolatione Philosophiae and More’s Dialogue of Comfort against Tribulation and Other Writings
Authors: McCutcheon Elizabeth
Published: February 2017

Thomas More was deeply affected by Boethius’s Consolation of Philosophy and made the work part of his innermost being. His use of specific topics and topoi – in particular, the idea of Fortune and arguments against it – has long been recognized. But his responses to the Consolation of Philosophy were often more holistic and experiential, as he responded to the deeper, metaphysical, and transcendent movement of the work. More, like Boethius, understood that the entire world is a prison, and hungered for his true home, which is above. He paraphrased Boethius’s Consolation in his early English poems, while citations became overt in later writings. When More later found himself, like Boethius, a prisoner of conscience, he too wrote a dialogue that grew out of the reality of his imprisonment and testified to the values and beliefs he embraced. Boethius’s dialogue has a cosmic and vertical orientation: Philosophy is a supra-mundane figure (and a personification allegory) representing the mind within, while More’s Dialogue of Comfort against Tribulation combines the transcendent with a vision of Christ crucified. And More’s interlocutors are more grounded in time and space; besides the cognitive therapy that Philosophy administers to the prisoner in Boethius’s dialogue, the two very human figures in More’s Dialogue of Comfort struggle with their temptations and fears. But both works depend upon grasping the difference between matters temporal and the illusory or deceptive goods of this world (fortune, wealth, fame, etc.) and the true good, which is eternal. And both Boethius and More witness the reality of human finitude and the mysteries of a divine purpose that orders the universe and shapes our ends.