bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design And Fabrication of a Domestic Biogas Unit for Cooking Applications
Authors: Fathima Rehana Munas  , J. A. D. A. S. Appuhamy  , Abdul Majeed Muzathik
Published: November 2021

This paper presents the design and fabrication of a domestic biogas unit by using daily organic waste for cooking. Basically, this unit consists a gas storage unit and a digester barrel. Initially, the organic wastes including kitchen wastes were deposited into the digester barrel which contains water with pH 6 once in every two days for two weeks. Then the mix started to produce biogas when the pH value reached around 6.8-7.5. After that food wastes were added slowly every day. When this step is continued further, the daily collection of biogases is 50 liters. As the digestate of this anaerobic digester is rich in nutrients this is also a good organic fertilizer for plants in the home garden. Also, this unit is designed and fabricated with easy maintenance and usage. Further, it is very much beneficial to dispose biodegradable kitchen wastes in an eco-friendly manner. In order to answer the energy demand in domestic level, it is highly essential to utilize the daily organic waste as a source of energy and produce methane as an alternative solution for cooking-energy requirement.
Reacting Flow Characteristics and Multifuel Capabilities of a Multi-Nozzle Dry Low NOx Combustor: A Numerical Analysis
Authors: Mohammad Nurizat Rahman  , Mohd Fairus Mohd Yasin  , Mohd Shiraz Aris
Published: November 2021

The fluctuating quality of natural gas (NG) in Peninsular Malaysia (PM) makes it challenging for the gas turbine (GT) combustor to meet the combustion performance requirements from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Moreover, the gas quality sensitivity is more apparent in modern dry low NOx (DLN) combustors. Many of the prior combustion investigations were conducted on a modest scale in the laboratory. In actuality, combustion characterizations in complicated DLN combustors are more valuable to the power generation sector. Hence, the current numerical analysis utilized the RANS formulation and a detailed chemistry to examine the impact of ethane (C2H6), carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrogen (N2) proportions in NG on combustion characteristics in a multi-nozzle DLN (MN-DLN) combustor, with the support of Modified Wobbe Index (MWI) calculations. Validations were performed using the combustor outlet temperature (COT) from the power plant where the actual MN-DLN combustor is operated, which revealed less than 10 % discrepancy. Qualitative validations were carried out by comparing the burn trace from the actual combustor wall to the predicted results, revealing an adequate Structural Similarity Index (SSIM) of 0.43. From numerical results of flame fronts and COTs, the addition of 20 % diluents (CO2 and N2) to NG demonstrated the blowoff risk. When MWIs of Kerteh and the JDA (major NG resources) were used as baselines, MWI ranges of all NG compositions under study surpassed the OEM’s ± 5 % limit. The increase in CO2 proportion results in a wide MWI range, especially when Kerteh is used as the baseline. Therefore, any GTs in PM that have previously been calibrated to use Kerteh's NG are more likely to have combustion instabilities if CO2 levels in NG suddenly increase. The higher MWI range backs up the current numerical results that showed the deleterious effects of a high CO2 composition throughout the combustor firing process. However, increasing the amount of C2H6 by up to 20 % is predicted to have minor effects on combustion characteristics. Overall, the validated numerical model of the MN-DLN combustor provided critical information about combustion characteristics and multifuel capabilities in respect to the NG quality in PM.
Diyabetik Annelerde Antenatal Anne Sütü Ekspresyonu
Authors: TECİK Seda , AÇIKGÖZ Sevgi , ÇINAR Nursan
Published: November 2021

Antenatal anne sütü ekspresyonu, doğum sonrasında anne sütü üretimin zor olabileceği durumlarda, kolostrumun doğum öncesi dönemde sağılması ve saklanmasıdır. Özellikle gebelikte diyabeti olan annelerde doğum sonu laktasyonun hızlandırılması, emzirme başarısının arttırılması, yenidoğanın sonuçlarının iyileştirilmesi ve formül mama kullanımının azaltılması gibi nedenlerle birçok sağlık profesyoneli tarafından önerilmektedir. Literatürde antenatal anne sütü ekspresyonunun güvenliği, etkinliği ve kabul edilebilirliğine olan ilginin arttığı gözlenmektedir. Bununla birlikte, bu uygulamanın potansiyel zararları ve faydaları hakkında sınırlı sayıda kanıt vardır. Bu derlemenin amacı, diyabetik annelerde antenatal anne sütü ekspresyonunun etkilerini, anne ve yenidoğan açısından literatür doğrultusunda incelemektir.
The Relationship between Serum Total Oxidant Status, Total Antioxidant Status, and Oxidative Stress Index with Severity Levels of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Literature Review
Authors: Imro'ati Tri Asih , Sugihartono Titong , Widodo Budi , Nefertiti Eva Pravitasari , Rovian Ivan , Nyoman Wibawa I Gede
Published: November 2021

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a global health problem in which the prevalence is increasing over periods. This disease is a significant cause of disorders in the upper gastrointestinal tract with very complex pathogenesis. Oxidative stress (OS) due to gastric acid reflux plays a role in the inflammatory response of the esophageal epithelium. Several OS markers have been widely studied and are thought to affect the severity degree of the esophageal mucosa. However, there has been no research on total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), and OS index (OSI) in the adult with GERD; hence the aim of this review was to determine the association between TOS, serum TAS, and OSI with the GERD degree. A literature review was conducted by searching articles related to the TOS, TAS, OSI, and its correlation with GERD degree on an online database, particularly Pubmed and Google scholar. We conclude that TAS and OSI might influence the severity of GERD; however, further clinical study is needed to prove this theory.
Zakat Management Concept to Accelerate Health and Economic Recovery during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Chotib Moch
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic impacts the zakat management of zakat institutions. Zakat is an Islamic obligation to donate a portion of one’s wealth. This is because the income of the muzakki (the people who pay the zakat) decreased. The pandemic caused the decline of people’s income, thus increasing the number of mustahik (zakat recipients). This condition encourages the application of a zakat empowerment concept that aims to accelerate people’s economy.

AIM: This paper aims analyze the zakat empowerment concept in the health and welfare aspects during the pandemic, to obtain legal protection based on the benefit (maslahah) and policy theories.

METHODS: This qualitative research aims to focus on the zakat empowerment concept in the aspects of health and welfare during the pandemic.

RESULTS: The zakat institutions may channel the zakat to the mustahik who are affected by the pandemic in the form of medicine, COVID-19 vaccines, and capitals to families whose breadwinners lost their jobs or died due to the pandemic. This qualitative research aims to analyze the zakat empowerment concept during the pandemic in the aspects of health and welfare and its legal protection based on benefit (maslahah) theory and the policy theory. According to the policy theory, the zakat empowerment concept in the health and economic sectors during the pandemic is according to Law No. 23 of 2011 on Zakat Management.

CONCLUSION: According to the maslahah theory, it is categorized as a maslahah hajiyah from the basis of maslahah al-mursalah. However, to give legal certainty and legal protection, the zakat empowerment concept in the health and economic sectors during the pandemic should be validated in legal regulation.
Au-delà de la déroute afghane
Authors: David Dominique
Published: November 2021

La débâcle américano-occidentale en Afghanistan nous contraint à réfléchir sur nos engagements extérieurs. Depuis plusieurs décennies, les échecs se multiplient. Il s’agit de « retrouver le monde réel » et non celui que « nous rêvons d’offrir ». Nous ne sommes plus le centre d’un monde que nous pourrions remodeler seuls. Un multilatéralisme est à reconstruire, sur des bases concrètes et à partir d’un diagnostic réaliste.
L’éveil d’un nouveau Chili
Authors: Larrouqué Damien
Published: November 2021

Au Chili, des mouvements sociaux de grande ampleur débutèrent en octobre 2019. La violence des manifestations a surpris le pouvoir politique qui s’est trouvé déstabilisé. Même si la crise sanitaire en a provoqué le ralentissement, un processus de changement constitutionnel est en cours. Il semble que l’ère Pinochet soit bel et bien close.
Les collectivités françaises d’Océanie, actrices et atouts en Indo-Pacifique
Authors: Lechervy Christian
Published: November 2021

Les collectivités françaises d’Océanie sont des actrices essentielles dans la zone indo-pacifique. C’est un atout de premier plan à condition qu’elles participent pleinement à la définition d’une stratégie globale au cœur d’une des zones où le monde se fait aujourd’hui. L’État doit s’appuyer sur cette puissance insulaire.
Le Japon : un partenaire stratégique de la France dans l’Indo-Pacifique
Authors: Setton Philippe
Published: November 2021

Le partenariat entre la France et le Japon est ancien et solide. Il s’est renforcé dans de nombreux domaines pour atteindre désormais une dimension stratégique, y compris dans le champ de la défense. La présence française en Indo-Pacifique renforce le besoin de coopération avec Tokyo dans le contexte actuel.
Dans le Sahel, « Terroriste » ne veut pas forcément dire « Terroriste » !
Authors: Mara Moussa , Tribot La Spière Loic
Published: November 2021

La situation sécuritaire au Sahel reste fragile, malgré les efforts fournis depuis plusieurs années dont l’opération Barkhane . Il faut désormais une approche plus globalisante, venant des pays africains avec une gouvernance plus efficace et mieux ancrée territorialement pour répondre aux besoins de leurs populations.
Les enjeux de sécurité en Méditerranée : l’orage approche
Authors: Ausseur Pascal
Published: November 2021

La désoccidentalisation du monde est une réalité consacrant une rupture des équilibres traditionnels. La Méditerranée est ainsi redevenue un espace de rivalité où les acteurs jouent du rapport de force. À l’inverse, l’Europe semble bien atone et devient une proie désormais facile à conquérir.
Histoire militaire
Authors: Franc Claude
Published: November 2021

Bien que «  capital ship  » des marines au début de la Seconde Guerre mondiale, les cuirassés ont montré leur vulnérabilité face à l’aviation embarquée dès 1940. Pour autant, les marines mirent du temps à prendre en compte le déclassement de ces navires, quintessence de la construction navale depuis le milieu du XIX e  siècle.
Reinforcement learning-based optimization of locomotion controller using multiple coupled CPG oscillators for elongated undulating fin propulsion
Authors: Nguyen Van Dong ,   Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Vo Dinh Quoc , Duong Van Tu , Nguyen Huy Hung , Nguyen Tan Tien ,   Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Linh Trung Ward, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam,   National Key Laboratory of Digital Control and System Engineering (DCSELab), HCMUT, 268 Ly Thuong Kiet, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam,   Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunication, Saigon University, Vietnam
Published: November 2021

This article proposes a locomotion controller inspired by black Knifefish for undulating elongated fin robot. The proposed controller is built by a modified CPG network using sixteen coupled Hopf oscillators with the feedback of the angle of each fin-ray. The convergence rate of the modified CPG network is optimized by a reinforcement learning algorithm. By employing the proposed controller, the undulating elongated fin robot can realize swimming pattern transformations naturally. Additionally, the proposed controller enables the configuration of the swimming pattern parameters known as the amplitude envelope, the oscillatory frequency to perform various swimming patterns. The implementation processing of the reinforcement learning-based optimization is discussed. The simulation and experimental results show the capability and effectiveness of the proposed controller through the performance of several swimming patterns in the varying oscillatory frequency and the amplitude envelope of each fin-ray.
Progression of COVID-19 under the Highly Restrictive Measures Imposed in Argentina
Authors: Sagripanti Jose-Luis , Aquilano Daniel R.
Published: November 2021

The variety and extent of non-pharmaceutical measures implemented by the government to control COVID-19 in Argentina were exceptional, making this country the best example to analyze the evolution of COVID-19 under the most stringent and longerlasting restrictive policies- which up to May 31st 2021 included 119 days of strict nation-wide lock-down, 304 days of less restrictive lock-downs, and 35 days of curfews. Two of the three peaks of infection correlated with the germicidal solar flux received in Argentina, suggesting a seasonal component and a role for the virus persisting in the environment. A massive public gathering crowding the presidential square in Buenos Aires, during which nearly half of those present were without face masks, did not alter the infection curve in that city. Comparative epidemiological data (standardized per million inhabitants) shows that COVID-19 in Uruguay, a neighboring country whose capital is at a similar latitude than Buenos Aires and who did not mandate lock-downs or curfews, progressed much slower (until vaccination started) than in Argentina. The number of yearly deaths caused by respiratory diseases and influenza in Argentina before the pandemic was similar to the total number of deaths attributed to COVID-19 cumulated on April 25, 2021, more than a year after the pandemic started. The failure to detect any benefit on ameliorating COVID-19 by the long and strict nation-wide lock-downs in Argentina should raise world-wide concerns about mandating costly and ineffective restrictive measures during ongoing or future pandemics.
First Identification of the Effects of Low Frequency Electromagnetic Field on the Micromolecular Changes in Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Łach Kornelia , Cebulski Józef , Chaber Radosław , Kocan Beata , Wojnarowska-Nowak Renata , Banaś-Ząbczyk Agnieszka
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

In this study, we hypothesize that exposure of adipose tissue-mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSCs) to electromagnetic field (EMF) may impact adipose stem cells' micromolecular structure (analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy [FTIR]).

Materials and Methods:

The AT-MSCs were exposed to continuous vertically applied sinusoidal EMF with a frequency of 50 Hz and a flux density of 1.5 mT for 24, 48, and 72 h. After an appropriate time (24, 48, 72 h) cells were washed with PBS, scrubbed, and immediately taken into FTIR analyses.

Results:

EMFs affect AT-MSCs. The greatest differences were in the range of nucleic acids and proteins in the fingerprint region which occurred after 24 and 48 h of EMF exposure. However, in the case of 72 h of EMF exposure, no significant differences were noticed in the FTIR spectra towards the control.

Conclusions:

FTIR spectra show differences between samples under the influence of EMF before they will be manifested at the morphological level. The largest differences in the range of nucleic acids and proteins in the fingerprint region occurred at 24 and 48 h of EMF exposure. That means it was during the first 48 h after EMF exposure a great number of dynamic changes occurred. However, in the case of AT-MSCs in 72 h EMF and 72 h control, no significant differences were noted in the FTIR spectra, which means that the chemical composition in these two cases is similar. EMF is not neutral for stem cells, especially in the in the first hours of interaction (24 h, 48 h).
Surface Dose Measurements in Chest Wall Postmastectomy Radiotherapy to Achieve Optimal Dose Delivery with 6 MV Photon Beam
Authors: Lobo Dilson , Banerjee Sourjya , Srinivas Challapalli , Athiyamaan M. S. , Reddy Shreyas , Sunny Johan , Ravichandran Ramamoorthy , Kotian Himani , Prakash Saxena PU
Published: November 2021

Aim:

A tissue-equivalent bolus of sufficient thickness is used to overcome build up effect to the chest wall region of postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) patients with tangential technique till Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) Grade 2 (dry desquamation) skin reaction is observed. The aim of this study is to optimize surface dose delivered to chest wall in three-dimensional radiotherapy using EBT3 film.

Materials and Methods:

Measurements were conducted with calibrated EBT3 films with thorax phantom under “open beam, Superflab gel (0.5 cm) and brass bolus conditions to check correlation against TPS planned doses. Eighty-two patients who received 50 Gy in 25# were randomly assigned to Group A (Superflab 0.5 cm gel bolus for first 15 fractions followed by no bolus in remaining 10 fractions), Group B or Group C (Superflab 0.5 cm gel or single layer brass bolus, respectively, till reaching RTOG Grade 2 skin toxicity).

Results:

Phantom measured and TPS calculated surface doses were within − 5.5%, 4.7%, and 8.6% under open beam, 0.5 cm gel, and single layer of brass bolus applications, respectively. The overall surface doses (OSD) were 80.1% ±2.9% (n = 28), 92.6% ±4.6% (n = 28), and 87.4% ±4.7% (n = 26) in Group A, B, and C, respectively. At the end of treatment, 7 out of 28; 13 out of 28; and 9 out of 26 patients developed Grade 2 skin toxicity having the OSD value of 83.0% ±1.6% (n = 7); 93.7% ±3.2% (n = 13); and 89.9% ±5.6% (n = 9) in Groups A, B, and C, respectively. At the 20th–23rd fraction, 2 out of 7; 6 out of 13; and 4 out of 9 patients in Groups A, B, and C developed a Grade 2 skin toxicity, while the remaining patients in each group developed at the end of treatment.

Conclusions:

Our objective to estimate the occurrence of optimal dose limit for bolus applications in PMRT could be achieved using clinical EBT3 film dosimetry. This study ensured correct dose to scar area to protect cosmetic effects. This may also serve as quality assurance on optimal dose delivery for expected local control in these patients.
Genotoxicity in Oral Mucosal Epithelial Cells of Petrol Station Attendants
Authors: Rehani Shweta , Raj Naresh , Jeergal Prabhakar , Sharma Mohit , Bishen Kundendu Arya , Nagpal Ruchi
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

Occupational exposure to petrol derivatives possesses an increased risk of various cancers including that of the oral mucosa. Scientific studies have shown the correlation of micronuclei assay (MN) with the cytogenotoxic changes in petrol station attendants. However, very few have reported the use of MN assay as a promising tool for assessing the impact of smoking in these workers.

Aim:

To explore the cytogenotoxic damage in exfoliated buccal cells obtained from petrol station attendants and control subjects using the MN assay along with additional effects due to smoking.

Materials and Methods:

The study comprised 60 males who were divided into Group I–IV with each having 15 subjects. These subjects were categorized as exposed smokers, exposed nonsmokers, unexposed smoker group, and unexposed nonsmokers. The MN and additional nuclear abnormalities (karyorrhexis [KH], binucleation [BN], pyknosis [P], and karyolysis [KL]) were calculated in PAP-stained slides.

Results:

Statistically higher mean frequencies of overall nuclear anomalies were observed in petrol pump workers in comparison with the control group. Petrol pump smokers carry the highest nuclear anomalies followed by non-exposed smokers than exposed non-smokers and the count was the least among unexposed non-smoker workers.

Discussion and Conclusion:

The present study indicated that the petrol pump workers are under higher cytogenotoxic damage. Also, smoking added to the frequency of damage. Thus, MN and other nuclear anomalies are in-vitro reliable biomarker assays available and should be routinely employed as a screening tool in their periodic medical evaluation.
Comparison of gastric motility in patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus with various degrees of glycemic control
Authors: Jain Sanchay , Dhingra Vandana , Kant Ravi , Kumari Ranjeeta
Published: November 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of glycemic control as estimated by glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) on gastric emptying in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) using gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES). This was a cross-sectional study conducted at a tertiary health care center in Northern India. The study included 44 patients who underwent GES using a radiolabeled solid Idli meal containing 1 mCi of Tc-99 m Sulfur Colloid. Patients were divided into three groups based on glycemic control as Group A, B, and C with HbA1c <7%, 7%–9%, and >9%. Statistical analysis was performed using the IBM® SPSS® Statistics Version 23.0 The comparison of proportions was done using the Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test. Means were compared using the independent t-test and one-way analysis of variance. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. No statistically significant correlation was found between delayed gastric emptying and glycemic control (P = 0.09), gender (P = 0.228), dietary patterns (P = 0.91), symptoms of gastroparesis (P = 0.06), body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.267), and duration of type 2 DM (P = 0.565). No statistically significant association was also found between glycemic control and time taken for half gastric emptying (t1/2) (P = 0.225). Scintigraphy using Tc-99m Sulfur Colloid radiolabeled Idli meal can be effectively used for the assessment of gastric emptying. There is no significant correlation of delayed gastric emptying with glycemic control, gender, BMI, type of diet, and duration of diabetes mellitus.
Discordant findings of different positron emission tomography/CT tracers in a case of glioblastoma
Authors: Kumar Ram , Gupta Nitin , Ranjan Rajeev , Verma Ritu , Belho Ethel , Sen Ishita
Published: November 2021

18F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose ([18F]-FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) CT has proven useful in the evaluation of high-grade glioma and is also useful as a predictor of the degree of malignancy in newly diagnosed brain tumors. It is commonly accepted that high-grade gliomas are characterized by increased FDG uptake, whereas the low-grade glioma demonstrates reduced or absent FDG uptake. [18F]-FDOPA is an amino acid PET tracer which is a marker of the proliferative activity of brain tumors and demonstrates positive uptake in all grades of brain tumors; however, the degree of tracer uptake is significantly higher in high-grade tumors as compared to low-grade tumors. Here, we discuss a case where both FDG and DOPA PET/CT scans raised suspicion of low-grade glioma; however, the final histopathology report confirmed WHO grade IV Glioblastoma.
Clinicopathological features and outcome of thyroglobulin elevation and negative iodine scintigraphy (TENIS) patients with negative neck ultrasound: Experience from a thyroid carcinoma clinic in India
Authors: Vijayan Roopa , Palaniswamy Shanmuga , Vadayath Usha , Nair Vasantha , Kumar Harish
Published: November 2021

Management of differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) patients with thyroglobulin (Tg) elevation and negative iodine scintigraphy (TENIS) and negative neck ultrasound scan causes considerable diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma, especially in resource-poor settings. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinicopathological features and outcome of TENIS patients with negative neck US attending a thyroid cancer clinic in India. From a DTC database of 722 containing 193 TENIS patients, subjects with negative neck US and negative Tg antibody (TgAb) were selected retrospectively and analyzed using appropriate statistical methods. The study group included 64 patients (male – 17, female – 47, mean age – 44.7 ± 12.8 years) with 54 papillary and 10 follicular thyroid carcinomas, American Thyroid Association (ATA) recurrence risk categorization (2009) – low – 16, intermediate – 28, and high – 2 0. Most of the patients became TENIS within 1 year of diagnosis with median Tg level of 6.5 ng/mL (1.2–996 ng/mL) and mean follow-up of 7.8 years. On follow-up, Tg dropped spontaneously in 27 patients, more among the low and intermediate-risk categories. For those with high or increasing Tg level, further imaging (fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography) was done and 14 out of 18 were positive. Treatment included empiric radioactive iodine therapy-16, external beam radiation therapy (EBRT)-7, and lymph node dissection (LND)-10. A favorable outcome was seen in 36 patients and unfavorable in 28. Distant metastases were associated with unfavorable outcome and poor survival. Progression-free survival was significantly better in the Tg group of <10 at the time of TENIS (111 months) compared to the Tg group >10 (72 months). Tg level dropped spontaneously in nearly half the patients, especially if levels were <10 and more so among the low-risk category. Distant metastasis was predictive of unfavorable outcomes. Along with Tg level, the ATA risk category might help to predict clinical course and reduce unnecessary expensive imaging in resource-poor settings.
Fixed 30 mCi (1110 MBq) 131I-iodine therapy in autonomously functioning nodules: Single toxic nodule as a predictive factor of success
Authors: Pereira Lívia , Riguetto Cinthia , Neto Arnaldo , Tambascia Marcos , Ramos Celso , Zantut-Wittmann Denise
Published: November 2021

Aims: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a fixed 30 mCi (1110 MBq) 131I-iodine dose for the treatment of hyperthyroidism due to uninodular or multinodular toxic goiter and identify predictors of success. Materials and Methods: Fifty-nine patients diagnosed with nonautoimmune toxic goiter were treated with a fixed 30 mCi dose of 131I-iodine and were followed at a tertiary service between 2000 and 2016. The therapy was considered successful if the patient reached euthyroidism or hypothyroidism without needing an extra 131I-iodine dose or antithyroid drugs for at least 1 year after the radioiodine therapy (RIT). Results: Patients with a single toxic nodule were younger at diagnosis (52 vs. 63 years; P = 0.007), presented a shorter disease duration until RIT (2 vs. 3.5 years; P = 0.007), smaller total thyroid volume (20 vs. 82 cm3; P = 0.044), and lower pre-RIT thyroid uptake (P = 0.043) than patients with multinodular goiter. No significant difference was seen with antithyroid drug use, thyroid-stimulating hormone and free thyroxine level, and follow-up after RIT. After RIT, 47 patients (79.66%) met the success criteria, and 12 (20.33%) remained hyperthyroid. Among the success group, 32 (68.08%) reached euthyroidism, while 31.92% developed hypothyroidism after 1 year. Patients with single toxic nodules who achieved success after RIT presented smaller nodules (2.8 vs. 5.75 cm; P = 0.043), while the pre-RIT thyroid uptake was higher among patients with multinodular toxic goiter who achieved success after RIT (5.5% vs. 1.5%; P = 0.007). A higher success rate was observed among patients with a single toxic nodule than those with a toxic multinodular goiter (92.3% vs. 55%; P = 0.001), and a single toxic nodule presentation was found to be an independent predictor of success (P = 0.009). Conclusions: The fixed 30 mCi 131I-iodine dose was particularly effective in the group of patients with single autonomously functioning nodule rather than the group with multiple nodules. A single toxic nodule was an independent predictor of treatment success.
Utility of different positron emission tomography/computed tomography tracers in the evaluation of incidentally detected dual malignancies: An experience from a tertiary care center
Authors: Kumar Ram , Gupta Nitin , Verma Ritu , Belho Ethel
Published: November 2021

Multiple primary malignancies in a cancer patient are not a rare occurrence. The most common presentation of multiple primary malignancies is dual malignancies. The usefulness of different positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) tracers in the evaluation of dual synchronous primary malignancies is not well documented. Here, we present a case series, where two patients, referred for PET/CT, after being diagnosed with one primary malignancy were found to be having a second primary malignancy, diagnosed incidentally in PET/CT, further validated by PET/CT with another tracer.
Technetium-99m methylene diphosphonate bone scan in evaluation of insufficiency fractures – A pictorial assay and experience from South India
Authors: Srivastava Madhur , Pagala Ram , Kendarla Vinodh , Nallapareddy Kavitha
Published: November 2021

Insufficiency fractures (IFs) can be challenging to diagnose due to varied presentations, and sometimes, it changes the course of treatment, as in cancer patients in whom it has to be differentiated with metastatic disease. We present the role of Technetium 99m methylene diphosphonate (99mTc-MDP) bone scan, which is a low-cost, simple to perform, whole body diagnostic investigation in the diagnosis of IFs. This is a retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent a 99mTc-MDP bone scan in a tertiary care teaching hospital during 2013–2017 and were diagnosed as having an IF on bone scan. The bone scans were performed on a dual-head gamma camera using low-energy high-resolution collimators. Of all the bone scan performed during 2013–2017, a total of 138 patients with a mean age of 57.5 ± 14.7 years were diagnosed as having IFs based on bone scan and final clinical diagnosis. Among them, the most common complaint was regional bony pain in 62% of patients, while the most common cause was osteoporosis in 47% of patients, both postmenopausal and senile osteoporosis. In all, 265 sites of fractures were identified with a fracture average of 1.9/patient, the most common site being dorsolumbar vertebrae, followed by ribs and lower limb bones. Many unusual sites were also identified such as talus, sternum, clavicle, and scapula. 99mTc-MDP bone scan, being noninvasive whole-body imaging, is a useful investigation for evaluation of IFs and in correlation with biochemical analysis and other imaging can be used to determine the etiology of IF.
Early diagnosis of focal congenital hyperinsulinism: A fluorine-18-labeled l-dihydroxyphenylalanine positron emission tomography/computed tomography study
Authors: Burroni Luca , Palucci Andrea , Biscontini Giuseppina , Cherubini Valentino
Published: November 2021

Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) is responsible for hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia which needs aggressive treatment in order to prevent neurological damages. Recent advances in genetics have linked CHI to mutations in many different genes that play a key role in regulating insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells. Furthermore, histopathological lesions, diffuse and focal, have been associated with these different genetic alterations. This short manuscript describes how the advent of fluorine-18-labeled L-dihydroxyphenylalanine-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-DOPA-PET/CT) scanning has changed the management of patients with CHI. 18F-DOPA PET/CT imaging differentiates focal from diffuse disease and is 100% accurate in localizing the focal lesion. In these patients, the lesion can be surgically removed allowing complete resolution of clinical alterations. We report a case in which clinical experience together with rapid genetic analysis and imaging with 18F-DOPA-PET/CT, were able to guide the correct clinical management of this condition. We confirm that advances in molecular genetics, imaging methods (18F-DOPA PET-CT), medical therapy, and surgical approach have completely changed the management and improved the outcome of these children.
18FDG PET-CT in sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, correlated with MRI and histology
Authors: Morley Nicholas , Hofer Monika , Wilkinson Philip , Bradley Kevin
Published: November 2021

We present a case of sporadic Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease with profoundly abnormal 18fluoro-deoxy-glucose positron emission tomography with computed tomography (FDG PET-CT) at an early stage, and correlate this with the clear findings at magnetic resonance imaging and also postmortem histology. Prion diseases are rare but important causes of cognitive impairment. The role of FDG PET-CT is discussed, along with other investigations such as electroencephalography and cerebro-spinal fluid analyses.
Carcinoma penis manifesting as upfront supraclavicular lymph node metastases detected by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography scan: Report of an extremely rare and aggressive case
Authors: Purkayastha Abhishek , Suhag Virender , Taneja Sachin , Husain Azhar
Published: November 2021

Carcinoma penis is a rare malignancy accounting 0.5%–1% of cases in the developed countries with a slightly higher incidence in the developing nations. Slow locoregional progression is characteristic of penile carcinoma (PC) and distant metastases are very uncommon. We hereby report a case of highly aggressive squamous cell PC in a 46-year-old male with fulminant upfront distant dissemination to left supraclavicular lymph nodes (LNs) without involving the inguinal and pelvic nodes detected by whole-body 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography scan. The scan also detected lytic destructive lesion involving the pelvic and adjacent bones with infiltration of skeletal muscles. He was treated with palliative radiotherapy to the wight-bearing sites followed by systemic chemotherapy. A thorough review of literature reveals that our case may be one of the rarest cases ever reported in world literature where an asymptomatic PC presents with upfront supraclavicular LN metastasis bypassing the inguinal, pelvic, and retroperitoneal LN chains.
Intrathoracic Goiter Visualized on iodine-123 and technetium-99m Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography
Authors: Kristensen Mattias , Abrahamsen Jan , Thomsen Henrik
Published: November 2021

Goiter with an intrathoracic component is relatively common; however, it is less common to see extent outside the anterior or posterior mediastinum. We present a case of intrathoracic goiter of significant size and abnormal placement which is examined using both 99mTc-pertechnetate and iodine-123 single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography.
Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography in a pregnant woman with carcinoma breast
Authors: Mahato Abhishek , Joshi Richa , Harish S , Paliwal Dharmesh
Published: November 2021

A 35-year-old female with a 15-week period of gestation was detected with locally advanced cancer of the left breast. She was suggested to undergo a medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) followed by invasive Oncological imaging - Contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) chest–abdomen–pelvis/fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-CT (FDG PET-CT) for staging the disease. However, to avoid the risk of iatrogenic novel coronavirus 2019 infection to the patient, on her request, the hospital admission was carried out after the oncological workup and thus PET-CT was conducted before the MTP. FDG PET-CT revealed FDG avid primary in the left breast along with extensive metastases to liver and skeletal lesions. The developing fetus also showed physiological FDG uptake. The patient has undergone an MTP and is presently under treatment for metastatic breast cancer. The case report illustrates the radiation safety guidelines on fetal radiation exposure, steps to decrease fetal radiation exposure, and illustration of fetal FDG uptake.
COVID-19 induced psychosocial challenges in South African higher education: Experiences of staff and students at two rural universities
Authors: Olawale Babawande Emmanuel , Mutongoza Bonginkosi Hardy , Adu Emmanuel , Omodan Bunmi Isaiah
Published: November 2021

Although the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the education and mental health of the university environment is relatively unknown, it is expected to be very significant considering the high incidence of emotional reactions amongst university students and staff.  While fears around COVID-19 exposure, anxieties, and the challenges of support normalize stress, anxiety, and depression as emotional reactions in the face of the pandemic, this psychosocial impact has negative consequences for the university community. Thus, in order to salvage the higher education institutions from the debilitating effects of the pandemic, there is a clear need to safeguard the welfare of students and staff. Hence, it becomes vital to examine the experience of members of the university community during the COVID-19 crisis in order to develop measures and implement interventions that will assist in navigating psychosocial challenges. To achieve this objective, the study employed a mixed-method research approach in which data was collected using web-based survey and online interviews. Concurrent triangulation sampling technique was employed to select a sample of fifteen (15) students, five (5) university managers, and five (5) lecturers – making twenty-five (25) respondents at each of the two universities, thus making a cumulative total of fifty (50) at two (2) rural universities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Thus, qualitative and quantitative data collected were analysed concurrently by first reporting the qualitative findings and then comparing them to the quantitative findings. Findings revealed that although the university environment traditionally provided opportunities for strengthening social ties which satisfy the universal need to belong to a community, the COVID-19 pandemic has altered rural university life, thus, significantly impacting on psychosocial wellbeing. The study recommends that rural institutions must facilitate psychosocial wellness programming with the assistance of wider stakeholders such as the government and the private sector who can assist in financing this initiative.
PRESENCE OF INORGANIC CONTAMINANTS IN FARM-RAISED FISH AND WILD-CAUGHT FISH
Authors:   Faculdade Fátima, Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil., Troian Sinara Andressa , Gottardo Franciele Maria ,   Faculdade Cenecista de Bento Gonçalves, Bento Gonçalves, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil., Alves Márcia Keller ,   Faculdade Fátima, Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil.
Published: November 2021

Commercial fishing and fish farms represent important sectors in the food industry. The global demand for these products had a significant increase in the last decades, due to the growth of the population, increase in income and in urbanization. To ensure a safe product to the population, the National Plan for Control of Residues and Poisoning (PNCRC) was developed, analyzing risks in products of both fishing and farming, aiming to ensure quality in food product throughout the production chain. In this way, the current document analysis aimed to verify, through reports from 2010 to 2016, the presence of inorganic poisons in fish from farming and commercial fishing. From those reports, the number of unsatisfactory samples in regards to poisons was extracted. This study reported that only fish from commercial fishing showed sample numbers with contamination from mercury, arsenium, plumbum and cadmium, with variations from 8,61% and 25,95%. These contaminated fish shouldn’t be made available for human consumption. For this reason, the NPCRP is an important tool to manage the risks of poisoning, promoting chemical safety on food with animal origins produced in Brazil.
Estudio sobre género y la diversidad sexual en las fuerzas armadas de Brasil
Authors: Verbicaro Soares Douglas
Published: November 2021

El presente estudio tiene por objetivo visibilizar los problemas enfrentados por diversas personas motivados por discriminación de género/orientación sexual dentro de las Instituciones Militares de Brasil. Se realizó una investigación bibliográfica, utilizando el método deductivo y el análisis cualitativo. El estudio concluye por la perpetuación de prácticas que dificultan el respeto de los Derechos Humanos. Por lo tanto, se necesitan esfuerzos continuos para permitir la protección y el cumplimiento reales de los derechos comentados, en favor de una sociedad más justa, igualitaria y solidaria, sin discriminaciones, en especial sobre sexualidad y género.
A PROTEÇÃO DE DADOS DO CONSUMIDOR NO COMÉRCIO ELETRÔNICO (E-COMMERCE): ANÁLISES DA LEI N. 13.709/2018 NAS RELAÇÕES DE CONSUMO VIRTUAIS
Authors: Pinto Laryssa Carolyne Oliveira , Verbicaro Soares Douglas
Published: November 2021

O presente artigo traz como tema a proteção de dados do consumidor no comércio eletrônico, com enfoque na análise da Lei Geral de Proteção de Dados Pessoais - LGPD. Nas últimas duas décadas, houve um crescente avanço na utilização da internet para se realizar compras e contratar serviços. Consequentemente, tornou-se um desafio para os juristas a possibilidade de acompanhamento das atualizações acerca da nova relação de consumo. Tal fato se tornou ainda mais difícil quando surgiu o novo modo de contratar – o contrato eletrônico. A referida prática não apenas trouxe muitos benefícios para a população brasileira e, ainda, para o mundo, como também trouxe riscos, notadamente aqueles que envolvem a segurança da informação nos dados do consumidor. Para tanto, neste trabalho foram utilizadas as metodologias de pesquisa bibliográfica, exploratória e qualitativa.
Readiness of Students in Flexible Learning Modality
Authors: Licayan Rodrigo Jr , Angelli B Herrera, , Michelle S Bersano, , Rocris Glenn R Idul,
Published: November 2021

This convergent-parallel mixed-methods study was conducted to examine students' readiness on flexible learning modality established in the local context based on Commission on Higher Education Memorandum Order No. 04 series of 2020 or the "Guidelines on the Implementation "Flexible Learning in the Philippines." A sample of  408 students participated in the study. The self-determination theory model and contextual approach to e-learning delivery (learning flexibility, online learning, study management, technology, modular learning, and online interaction) were used as theoretical underpinnings. Data collected using electronic surveys and information from semi-structured interviews were analyzed. The application of a descriptive survey confirms the low level of readiness among students. When compared across the population, the results provided no significant difference in the level of readiness among students when grouped according to sex and provided significant difference according to year level and Course. Interpreting the results together with qualitative analysis parallels the notion of difficulties among students in all dimensions of flexible learning. This research places the thrust of improving curriculum delivery by addressing flexible learning policies in the local context.
Deploying Blended Learning in the New Normal Pedagogy
Authors: Khan Mohammad Ehsanul Islam
Published: November 2021

While the world is experiencing a severe global crisis for the Covid-19 pandemic, the academic education sectors of several developing countries face formidable challenges, including Bangladesh. The current study aimed at finding out the barriers and possibilities for blended learning in the new normal situation in the education sector of Bangladesh. The researcher followed a descriptive approach with reviews of related literature and conducted Focus Group Discussions (FGD) with twenty-one university teachers to collect data and develop the study. The study found some challenges for blended education, e.g., poverty, lack of familial and institutional support, inadequate internet facilities, untrained teachers for using technological gadgets, electricity issues in rural and coastal areas. Still, the study found prospects to deploy blended learning and flipped classrooms in the post-pandemic period because of the countenance of 71.43% of participants. Finally, the study recommended some possible strategies in the new normal life for a more balanced educational system, particularly at the tertiary level.
Sosyal Bilgiler Dersinde Kullanılan Web 2.0 Araçlarının Ortaokul Öğrencilerinin Çevresel Duyarlılıklarına Etkisi
Authors: BALÇIN Kıvılcım , ÇALIŞKAN Hüseyin
Published: November 2021

Bu araştırmada sosyal bilgiler dersinde kullanılan Web 2.0 araçlarının ortaokul öğrencilerinin çevresel duyarlılıklarına etkisinin araştırılması amaçlanmıştır. Araştırma nicel araştırma yöntemi desenlerinden ön test-son test kontrol gruplu yarı deneysel desene göre tasarlanmıştır. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu 2020-2021 eğitim ve öğretim yılının güz döneminde İstanbul ili Küçükçekmece ilçesinde bulunan bir ortaokulda öğrenim görmekte olan 39 (20 deney grubu, 19 kontrol grubu) beşinci sınıf öğrencisi oluşturmaktadır. Veri toplama aracı olarak “Çevresel Duyarlılık Ölçeği” kullanılmıştır. Uygulama, sosyal bilgiler dersinin “İnsan ve Çevre” ünitesi kapsamında 19 ders saati (19x30 dk.) sürecinde gerçekleştirilmiştir. Kontrol grubuna yürürlükte olan program doğrultusunda derse yönelik uygulamalar gerçekleştirilmiş, deney grubunda ise yürürlükte olan programla birlikte Web 2.0 araçlarının kullanıldığı uygulamalar ile dersler yürütülmüştür. Uygulamalar öncesinde ve sonrasında ön ve son test olarak uygulanan ölçekten elde edilen veriler araştırmanın hipotezleri bağlamında analize tabi tutulmuştur. Araştırmanın sonucunda sosyal bilgiler dersinde kullanılan web 2.0 araçlarının öğrencilerinin çevresel duyarlılıkları ön test ve son test puanları arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bir fark oluşturmadığı; ancak olumlu yönde etkilerinin olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
ANALISIS KETERAMPILAN BERBICARA PADA PEMBELAJARAN BAHASA INDONESIA SISWA KELAS IV SDN KAMPUNG MELAYU 4 KABUPATEN TANGERANG
Authors: Isma Imelda Melva , Sari Ramdhani Intan , Enawar Enawar , Sumiyani Sumiyani
Published: November 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan bagaimana keterampilan berbicara dalam bercerita pada pembelajaran bahasa Indonesia siswa kelas IV SDN Kampung Melayu 4 Kabupaten Tangerang. Keterampilan berbicara menjadi salah satu aspek yang penting dalam keterampilan berbahasa siswa yang terampil dalam berbicara lebih mudah untuk menyampaikan pendapat serta idenya. Salah satu cara untuk meningkatkan keterampilan berbicara di kelas adalah kegiatan bercerita yang berkaitan dengan materi yang sedang dibahas. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif deskriptif dengan mengambil data di SDN Kampung Melayu 4 Kabupaten Tangerang dengan subyek penelitian guru kelas IV dan 15 orang siswa. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan tes, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Analisis data dilakukan dengan reduksi data, penyajian data dan menarik kesimpulan. Hasil Penelitian menujukan bahwa keterampilan berbicara siswa dalam bercerita sudah cukup baik. Pada aspek keberanian, dari 15 orang siswa terdapat 7 orang siswa yang sudah berani bercerita dengan rasa percaya diri dengan suara yang lantang dan pandangan mata yang penuh keyakinan. Pada aspek ketepatan dari 15 orang siswa terdapat 8 siswa yang sudah tepat dalam pengucapan kata dan tata bahasanya. Pada aspek kejelasan dari 15 orang siswa terdapat 8 orang siswa yang sudah menyampaikan isi cerita dengan jelas sehingga mudah dipahami oleh pendengarnya. Pada aspek kelancaran dari 15 orang siswa hanya terdapat 5 orang siswa yang lancar menyampaikan isi cerita. Pada aspek kosakata dari 15 orang siswa hanya terdapat 2 orang siswa yang bercerita dengan kosakata yang beragam sedangkan 13 orang siswa lainnya masih menggunakan kosakta yang terbatas. Pada aspek penampilan dari 15 orang siswa hanya terdapat 7 orang siswa yang menggunakan ekspresi. melalui gerak tubuh dan mimik wajah, gerak tubuh digambarkan melalui lambaian tangan.