bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of trinary discretization method for structural distribution analysis of carbon in graphene-contained shungite
Authors:   Syktyvkar State University, Syktyvkar, Russia, Antonets I.V. , Golubev E.A. ,   Geology Institute Komy SC UrD RAS, Syktyvkar, Russia, Shavrov V.G. ,   Institute of Radio Engineering and Electronics RAS, Moscow, Russia, Shcheglov V.I. ,   Institute of Radio Engineering and Electronics RAS, Moscow, Russia
Published: December 2023

Using the high-permission raster electron microscopy on nano-level the structure distribution of carbon in natural graphene-containing shungite applied for manufacturing adsorbing surfaces is investigated. The analysis is executed in specimens with specific carbon containing about 80-97% and specific conductivity from 2200 to 8600 Sm/m. The results of measuring were the cards of carbon distribution along the specimen surface. It was investigated four specimens and in each specimen was copied five cards in different its points, as a result – twenty cards. It is found the presence on the cards the graphene packets and long graphene ribbons and also domains without clear graphene-similar structure. For the analysis of local carbon distribution, it is proposed the discretization method which consist of applying on the card plane the grid with square cells and following analysis of regularity graphene layers by each cell. It is found three levels of structure regularization: high, middle and low. For the high level it is typical the regular periodic distribution of graphene layers along the whole square of cell, for middle – explosive character of graphene layers, for low – absence of graphene layers along the whole cell. For individual characteristics of each specimen, it is proposed the concept of order degree which supposed the relative number cells in three levels which is averaged on all its cards. It is found that in typical case the high degree of order presents on 35,4% of card area, middle in 47,3% and low in 17,3% of the same area. By way of possible course of distinction in order level is proposed the specific geological origin of specimens from different depositions.
Die Auswirkungen des Klimawandels auf unsere Gesundheit und was uns erwartet
Authors: Traidl-Hofmann Claudia , Orasche Jürgen
Published: December 2023

Der Klimawandel ist voll im Gange. Die Hitze macht uns allen zu schaffen. Sie macht gesunde Menschen krank, kranke Menschen kränker und fordert heute bereits tausende Hitzetote besonders bei den Ärmsten und Schwächsten unserer Gesellschaft. Spätestens jetzt sollte ein Staat seine Bürger schützen und Voraussetzungen dafür schaffen, dass sich Menschen überhaupt gesund und nachhaltig ernähren, bewegen und wohnen können. Die größte Herausforderung der Menschheit kann gleichzeitig auch ihre größte Chance werden, wenn der transformative Wandel gelingt und die Menschen daran teilhaben.
Klimawandel, Gesundheit und Ethik – Der Klimawandel als bioethisches Gerechtigkeitsproblem
Authors: Bartmann Marius
Published: December 2023

Der Klimawandel ist eine der größten Bedrohungen für die menschliche Gesundheit. Fragen der globalen und intergenerationellen Gerechtigkeit spielen dabei eine zentrale Rolle. In diesem Beitrag werden einige zentrale ethische Herausforderungen im Kontext der vielfältigen Folgen des Klimawandels für die menschliche Gesundheit dargestellt, indem der Klimawandel vor allem als ein bioethisches Gerechtigkeitsproblem aufgefasst wird.
Estudio ecológico sobre una población domiciliaria de Triatoma infestans klug de la Provincia Biogeográfica Chaqueña
Authors: Ronderos Ricardo A. , Schnack Juan A. , Ghilini Jorge M. , Spinelli Gustavo R.
Published: December 2023

A typical country house located in an endemic chagasic area (La Batea, Córdoba,Argentina), was completely demolished on order lo look primarily upon the numerical level achieved by triatomines population as well as to establish distribution patterns and habitat preference. Furthermore, some emergent population parameters and attributes were studied, such as density, fecundity, age, structure and sex ratio.

Triatoma infestans was the only well established resident population species in thedomestic boundary, even though very few individuals belonging to the congeneric T. guasayana were detected in coexistence with the former species. A low degree of egg's parasitism by microhymenoptera was found. Ninety six sample units were taken during demolition in the bedroom’s walls in ordor to count number of eggs per unit and calculation of a dispersión index. Three removal methods for relative estimates were tested before the demolition took place, which were compared with values obtained from direct counting while demolition.

Our results show a high degree of crowding and different habitat preference fornymphs, adults and oviposition microhabitats. T. infestaos population seems to be still well below the carrying capacity of the environment. The use of a feeding index, to calculate number of bites per day and person, required to satisfy “vinchucas” feeding needs, alowed us to postulate T. infestaos domestic population haven't yet developed an intensive intraspecific competition. This is so because the studied population would be undergoing an expansión stage of growing.
Insights on Investment Psychology of Individual Investors at Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) During The Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Muzareba AM  , Hossain T  , Nesa Z
Published: December 2023

Almost all calamities make a footmark on the financial sector, and COVID-19 is no different. On this ground, stock market investors' attitudes, thinking, and everything receives severe attention as investors' psychology is a common determinant of the trading activity and investment decisions which ultimately drive the market. Investors in developing countries like Bangladesh need a more rigorous analysis of their behavior as they are now more concerned and worried about their investments than before. They must be more vigilant in terms of preparation to eliminate the impacts of COVID-19. This paper aims at focusing on understanding how the spread of the pandemic is reshaping the psychological aspect of investors with a focus on four selected factors, risk perception, market psychology, media effect, and loss aversion. Three hundred eighty-five responses were collected through a questionnaire during the COVID-19 pandemic, where data was tested using Smart PLS 3.0 in conjunction with IBM SPSS 25. With the help of the measurement model and structural model of partial least square, the suggested framework in this paper has been studied to identify some aspects of investors' psychology that could potentially have insights and information on how countries should place themselves to respond to future epidemics. The effect size and individual t-test of the factors explain the affected state of thinking of retail investors, where loss aversion and risk perception affect investors the most. In contrast, media effects have a moderate influence, and market psychology has the least. The findings are expected to help investors and policymakers understand the behavior of the market and prepare accordingly for challenging the upcoming economic crisis in the corona war.
The Disease of All Times: A Retrospective Study of 272 Syphilis Cases
Authors: ÜNVER ULUSOY Tülay , HAYKIR SOLAY Aslı , DEMİRKÖSE Hacer , KUZİ Semanur , HEKIMOGLU Can Huseyin , ŞENCAN İrfan
Published: December 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the changes in our syphilis cases over the years, their demographic and clinical characteristics, and their laboratory findings.

Methods: The study included patients diagnosed with syphilis between 2018 and 2022 at a tertiary hospital's Dermatology and Infectious Diseases (ID) outpatient clinics. Patients'; demographic, clinical, and laboratory data evaluated at the time of diagnosis. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 20.0 program was used to analyze the data.

Results: A total of 272 syphilis cases were included in the study. Among these cases, 82.4% were male, and 39.6% were 41–60 years old. In total, 7.4% were anti-HIV, and 2.9% were positive for HBsAg. The rates of the cases diagnosed at primary and secondary stages were 74.4%. Syphilis cases were detected more in 2018 than in other years (except 2020) and fewer in 2022 than in other years (p< 0.001). Anti-HIV positive cases were diagnosed more frequently at ID outpatient clinics, and cases with clinical findings were diagnosed more at dermatology outpatient clinics (p< 0.001). The rate of sexual partners not tested for syphilis was significantly higher in males than in females (p= 0.027). The rates of syphilis cases in the study and Turkey as a whole were similar in 2018–2019 but significantly different in 2020-2021-2022 (p< 0.001).

Conclusion: Reporting syphilis is essential to identify the at-risk population prevent complications, and reduce transmission. Monitoring the profile of syphilis cases admitted to the hospital can increase the detection rate of syphilis cases.
Impact of maternal age on perinatal results
Authors: SUMAN Kamuran , GÖK Ebru , BÜYÜK Musa , SUMAN Murat
Published: December 2023

Background/Purpose: In our study, we aimed to evaluate maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes of pregnancies managed by our perinatologists, obstetricians, and pediatricians in 3 different centers over the past five years, by age group.

Methods: In this retrospective study, we collected the maternal and neonatal data from the hospital electronic records of 403 adolescents (15-19 years of age), 491 women of advanced age (>40 years of age), and 200 pregnant controls (20-39 years of age) who delivered in our obstetrics units between 2016 and 2021.

Results: Obstetric and fetal outcomes affected from women bearing children early or late stages in life. According to our results, rates of one or more parity, cesarean section, gestational hypertension, and acute fetal distress in the women of advanced age were significantly higher than those in the controls (p34 gestational weeks in the adolescents were significantly lower than those in the controls (p
Investigation of the Relationship between Self-confidence Levels and Professional Attitudes among Nursing Department Students
Authors: CİNEMRE Şenay , TÜRK Rukiye
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between self-confidence levels and professional attitudes of nursing students.

Material and Method: The descriptive and correlational study was conducted with 533 nursing students at the Faculty of Health Sciences Nursing Department of Kafkas University between October 10 and November 5, 2022. Data collection tools were created on the internet using Google Forms and a link was created online. Data were collected using the "Identification Characteristics Question Form", "Self-Confidence Scale", and "Attitude Scale towards Nursing Profession", and analyzed by utilizing the IBM SPSS Statistics 28 package program.

Results: The mean self-confidence score of nursing students participating in the study was 113.23 ± 28.40 and the mean attitude score towards the nursing profession was 153.93 ± 24.87. The Pearson correlation coefficient between the self-confidence scale scores and attitude scale scores towards the nursing profession of nursing students participating in the study was found to be 0.394.

Conclusion: As a result, it was determined that nursing students participating in the study had moderate self-confidence and positive professional attitudes. In addition, a statistically significant moderate positive correlation was found between nursing students' self-confidence and their attitudes towards the nursing profession (p
RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PERCEIVED SOCIAL SUPPORT AND TREATMENT ADHERENCE IN TYPE-2 DIABETES PATIENTS
Authors: KARATAŞ Derya
Published: December 2023

Background/Purpose: Type-2 Diabetes is a disease that may cause many complications or even early mortality. Thus, adherence to treatment is crucial for people with Type-2 Diabetes. Treatment regimens for diabetes include many steps like controlling for blood sugar levels and exercising and also it is known that support from the environment might motivate patients to adhere to their treatment regimens more. Accordingly, the purpose of the current research article is to understand the relationships between perceived social support and treatment adherence in Type-2 Diabetes patients.

Methods: After obtaining the necessary ethical approval, I administered surveys to 119 Type-2 Diabetes patients.

Results: I found that patients who feel more support from their significant ones adhere to their treatment regimens significantly more.

Conclusion: This result shows the importance of social support for Type 2 Diabetes patients. Thus, in the future researchers might try to understand how people make those people suffer from diseases feel more supported and create some intervention programs accordingly.
Musculoskeletal Pain Prevalence and Association with Breastfeeding Position in Lactating Mothers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alazmi Abeer A. , Algabbani Maha F.
Published: December 2023

Background: Musculoskeletal pain (MSP) is common among lactating mothers. The aims of this study were to assess the prevalence of MSP and its association with the positioning of lactating mothers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional survey study using an online self-administered questionnaire. Results: 336 women aged 20–50 years participated in this study (58.3% reported vaginal delivery, 74.1% had one to four children, 61.3% had a bachelor’s degree or higher, and 45.5% worked). Only 25% of the mothers were given health education regarding MSP. 97.3% of mothers reported pain on at least one part of their body. There were differences in pain intensity ratings across different locations (with a median and interquartile range in parentheses): lower backs at 0 (0, 6) and upper backs at 2 (0, 5), necks at 3 (0, 6), shoulders at 3 (0, 5) and arms at 2 (0, 4), and hands at 1 (0, 4). MSP prevalence ranges from 58.6% for arm and hand to 72.3% and 67.6% for lower back and neck, respectively. MSP prevalence is significantly associated with breastfeeding positions (p < 0.001). A cradle position was the most commonly used (54.8%), and it was associated with MSP across different locations (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The prevalence of lower back and neck pain is higher among breastfeeding mothers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. MSP and breastfeeding position were significantly associated. Mothers received limited health education about MSP.
Prognostic and Immune Infiltration Signatures of GIMAP Family Genes in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Mengjiao , Zhang Xu , Hou Jing , Liang Xuemei , Zhang Ming
Published: December 2023

Background: Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is a common malignant tumor of the urinary system characterized by abundant immunocytes infiltration. The impact of guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases) of immunity-associated proteins (GIMAPs) on the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and prognosis of ccRCC is unclear. Methods: The expression of GIMAPs in ccRCC was determined through multiple datasets (ONCOMINE, TCGA and UALCAN). The relationship between GIMAP family members was analyzed through Spearman correlation analysis. The interaction among the GIMAPs protein was analyzed using STRING. Prognostic values of GIMAPs were evaluated by Survival analysis, Lasso and Cox regression analysis; Prognostic risk model and nomogram were constructed. The correlation between GIMAPs and TIME was explored using TIMER, Cibersort and Pearson correlation analysis. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed to discuss their function and mechanism in ccRCC. Results: GIMAPs were over-expressed in ccRCC and significantly related to overall survival (OS) of the patients. GIMAPs were positively correlated with each other, the risk model based on GIMAPs had good prognostic value in ccRCC. GIMAPs mainly expressed in TIME and were associated with abundant immunocytic infiltration in ccRCC, the risk model also had close correlation with TIME. Our results showed GIMAPs may affect the development of ccRCC by regulating the amount and antitumor activity of immunocytes in TIME. Conclusions: GIMAPs were over-expressed in ccRCC, and their expression levels were significantly related to the OS of patients and immunocytic infiltration in TIME. GIMAPs are potential therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers for ccRCC.
Pulsed Field Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Matos Carlos D. , Hoyos Carolina , Miranda-Arboleda Andres F. , Diaz Juan C. , Hincapie Daniela , Patino Carlos , Hernadez Ricardo H. , Zei Paul C. , Romero Jorge E. , Osorio Jose
Published: December 2023

Pulsed-field ablation (PFA) has emerged as a promising nonthermal ablation alternative for treating atrial fibrillation (AF). By delivering ultra-rapid high-energy electrical pulses, PFA induces irreversible electroporation, selectively targeting myocardial tissue while sparing adjacent structures from thermal or other damage. This article provides a comprehensive review of multiple pre-clinical studies, clinical studies, and clinical trials evaluating the safety, efficacy, and long-term outcomes of PFA in various settings and patient populations. Overall, the reviewed evidence highlights PFA’s potential as a revolutionary ablation strategy for AF treatment. Offering comparable procedural efficacy to conventional ablation methods, PFA distinguishes itself with shorter procedure times and reduced risks of complications such as phrenic nerve palsy and potential esophageal injury. While further research is warranted to establish long-term efficacy, PFA’s distinct advantages and evolving clinical evidence suggest a promising future for this novel nonthermal ablation approach. As PFA continues to advance, it has the potential to transform AF ablation procedures, providing a safer alternative for patients with atrial fibrillation.
Fatwas of Orenburg Muftis in the context of socio-cultural transformations in the Ural-Volga region (19th – early 20th century)
Authors: Azamatova Gulnaz , Farkhshatov Marsil , Mukhetdinov Damir , Ozturk Mustafa
Published: December 2023

The article examines the ways of influence of state and official religious institutions on the public consciousness of the Turkic-Muslim peoples of the eastern regions of Russia. The support of government events and individual initiatives of the authorities with the help of fatwas conclusions of authoritative leaders of the Muslim clergy on various theological, legal and social issues has become an effective tool for educating loyal subjects of the empire.
Radical Ukrainian nationalism and its anti-Russian orientation (1914–2023)
Authors: Kiknadze Vladimir
Published: December 2023

A comparative analysis of the Melnikovites and Banderaites in the service of the Third Reich and their pro-American followers in modern Ukraine, who are related by a single ideology radical Ukrainian nationalism and its anti-Russian orientation.
The genesis of the education system in Russia in the middle of the 18th century: historical, pedagogical and sociocultural aspects
Authors: Kicheva Inna , Kolesnikov Ilya , Babayan Anzhela , Svintorzhitskaya Irina , Vorobyev Gennadiy
Published: December 2023

The scientific article explores the main trends in the development of the education system in Russia in the middle of the 18th century. The authors conduct a historical and pedagogical analysis of the period of the 1730s 1760s, characterized by the inconsistency of the state educational policy in the post-Petrine era and the formation of stable socio-cultural trends for the transition to subsequent cardinal education reforms. It is shown that during this period the idea of the need for education, enlightenment and determining the orientation towards the secular nature of education matured in Russian society and gradually permeated public consciousness, created the systemic contours of general education in Russia in the second half of the 18th century.
Hybridisation of artificial neural network with particle swarm optimisation for water level prediction
Authors: Mohammed Sarah J. , Zubaidi Salah L.
Published: December 2023

Accurate water level (WL) prediction is essential for the efficient management of various water resource projects. The creation of a reliable model for WL forecasting is still a difficult task in water resource management. This study applies an artificial neural network (ANN) integrated with the particle swarm optimisation algorithm (PSO-ANN) for simulating monthly WL of the Tigris River in Alkut City, Iraq. Data pre-treatment methods are utilised for improving raw data quality and detect the optimal predictors. Monthly WL and climatic variables from 2011 to 2020, were used to construct and validate the proposed technique. The results showed that singular spectrum analysis (SSA) is a high-performance technique for denoising time series. The PSO-ANN model produces good results coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.85.
An experimental study of noise reduction of portable generator using local made acoustic enclosure
Authors: Kareem 1dalal9 , J. Jubear Abbas , R. Al-Bugharbee Hussain
Published: December 2023

Portable generators are now widely used in shops, offices, and homes to provide electrical power during power outages in Iraq. However, these generators produce a lot of noise emitted from rotating mechanical parts and fuel combustion inside engine chamber. This noise has a negative impact on the neuroendocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, and digestive systems. The reduction of generator noise still attracts the interest of many researchers. In this work, the reduction of generator noise under the use of an acoustic enclosure, made from local materials, is investigated experimentally. Experimental work is conducted using a 2kW generator and compares the sound intensity for two cases: a generator without enclosure and one with enclosure. The enclosure is made from plywood, galvanized sheet, glass wool, cork, and a compressed sponge.  The results include the measurement of sound intensity at day and night, at zero to full load, and at two different distances. The findings depicted that generator noise reduction reaches 10.3 dB at night and 9.6 dB during the day. In addition, the engine temperature, in case of using the enclosure, is kept within the allowable range of air-cooled generators which is 300 °C.  The maximum temperature at 100% load measured inside the enclosure was 77.86 °C during the night time and 91.75 °C at day time.
Grow a Successful Business: Market and Product Development in Business Plan
Authors: Aura Annisa
Published: December 2023

The success of a business can be achieved through several key factors through business planning. Starting from effective strategies, product innovation, good management and focus on creating value for customers. Business success also often involves sustainable business growth. Apart from that, wise risk taking and the ability to learn from failure can help achieve business success according to the desired targets. Whatever the industry or business field, keep trying to innovate and don't be afraid to fail with the support of a representative business plan.
Predicting Personality State Variability: Conscientiousness, Neuroticism, and Personality Dysfunction
Authors: Chenery Peter , Monaghan Conal
Published: December 2023

A person’s pattern of behaviour is highly stable on average (i.e., their personality traits), yet highly varied between situations (i.e., their personality states). Research suggests the function of personality is to maintain stable relationships with oneself and others and that variability in expression of personality is related to Personality Dysfunction. We investigated the personality traits of Conscientiousness and Neuroticism and variability in their respective personality states during daily life. We further considered the role of Personality Dysfunction in people's awareness of their personality state variability. Employing an ecological momentary assessment design, a general population sample (N = 61; 62% female) completed baseline surveys measuring trait Conscientiousness, Neuroticism, and Personality Dysfunction, before reporting on the state expression of these variables four times a day for 10-days. We used correlational analyses to assess the relationships between trait domains and the distributional parameters of their state expressions. We additionally explored the relationship between Personality Dysfunction and participant's awareness of their personality state variability. As anticipated, Conscientiousness and Neuroticism traits were both related to the average of their personality states. Trait Neuroticism predicted variability in respective states, however, trait Conscientiousness largely did not. People were poor predictors of their Conscientiousness state variability and adequate predictors of variability in state Neuroticism. Personality Dysfunction was only significantly related to discrepancies between people’s retrospective predictions of how much their Conscientiousness state, Organisation, varied and the observed state variability. We discuss implications of these findings for our investigation of personality trait and state relationships.
Emotion and social intention effects of naturalistically priming secure attachment in older adults: A culturally tailored Covid-19 intervention
Authors: Kafetsios Konstantinos , Masoura Elvira , N Katerina , Tsinidou Kyriaki , Kouvatsou Zoe , Goulis Demetrios
Published: December 2023

Using attachment security schema and cultural fluency theories we designed and produced short films based on the same Covid-19 related scenario, which differed in terms of: whether the short films primed attachment security (experimental conditions) or positive emotions (control condition) and, whether, among the security priming conditions collectivistic primes were also present. Following the film exposure, older adult participants reported on positive and attachment related emotions and a list of intentions to socially connect with others. Compared to the control condition, participants who watched the security priming short films reported significantly higher level of security (but not positive) feelings post film-exposure. Among the security priming conditions, those involving collectivistic elements of security priming resulted in significantly higher ratings of security feelings and intentions to socially connect. Importantly, older persons’ anxious and avoidant attachment orientations moderated the effects of collectivistic security priming versus the non-collectivistic security priming conditions in line with expectations deriving from attachment-culture fit and cultural fluency theories. The results suggest that a naturalistic film-based method of priming the secure attachment schema in older adults can have the intended effects, at least in the short run, and that cultural fluency aspects can integrate with older adults’ attachment security schemas.
The value of multi-proxy experiments to study pro-environmental behavior
Authors: Millet Kobe , Weijters Bert
Published: December 2023

In the study of pro-environmental behavior, experimental studies are essential for identifying causal relationships and underlying psychological mechanisms. However, despite the multi-dimensional nature of the construct “pro-environmental behavior”, experimental studies often adopt a single, fixed, proxy measure (e.g. one specific pro- environmental decision) to capture this construct. The problem herewith is that this approach ignores the idiosyncratic nature of the specific proxy used, undermining the reliability of study conclusions on pro-environmental behavior in general. In contrast herewith, the proposed multi-proxy experimental approach makes use of a wide variety of proxy measures to operationalize pro-environmental behavior: participants are randomly assigned to one out of a large set of different proxy measures (i.e. a variety of different pro-environmental decisions). This approach preserves the strengths of classic experimental design while increasing the reliability of study conclusions. Moreover, it allows for the collection of additional information about specific characteristics of the proxy measures used (also post hoc), which can then in turn be employed as moderating variables. This may not alone help identify the specificity of the experimental effects, but can also be used to test different conceptual models against each other. We provide a roadmap to implement the multi-proxy experimental approach.
From one half to 12th: acquisition of fraction writing in adult education program students and children
Authors: Starling-Alves Isabella , Gomides Mariuche , Ribeiro Denise O. , Haase Vitor Geraldi , Hubbard Edward M.
Published: December 2023

Learning fractions is essential for academic and daily life success. A critical first step in acquiring fractions is learning to transcode them (e.g., writing ½ when hearing “one half”). However, little is known about how students master fraction transcoding. We addressed this gap by assessing fraction writing in two groups of Brazilian students with limited education: adults in the first year of an adult education program (AEP-1) and 2nd graders. Both groups made frequent transcoding errors. Errors were classified into three categories, Syntactic: correct numerator/denominator values with an incorrect notation (12th for “one half”); Lexical: incorrect numerals with the correct notation (⅓ for “one half”); Combined: incorrect numerals and notation (15th for “one-half”). AEP-1 students’ performance was strongly bimodal: those with weak fraction writing skills made predominantly syntactic errors, whereas those with strong fraction writing skills made mostly lexical errors. Second graders did not transcode any fractions correctly making exclusively syntactic or combined errors. Approximately half the AEP-1 students with the lowest levels of schooling (< 3 years) succeeded in writing fractions, suggesting an important role of informal experiences. In the early stages of learning fractions transcoding, students know how to write whole numbers, but do not yet know fractions syntax, leading to the preponderance of syntactic errors. As students learn fractions syntax, they make infrequent, predominantly lexical, errors. We conclude by proposing a model of fraction writing development that incorporates formal and informal learning experiences, executive functions, and phonemic awareness to explain the mastery of this important skill.
Idiopathic intraosseous ganglion of the distal tibia in a young adult male: A case report with review of literature
Authors: Ahmad Javed , Patel Brijmohan , Ayaz Ahmad , Shrivastava Vivek Kumar , Singh Mohit Kumar
Published: December 2023

Intraosseous ganglion is a benign cystic bony lesion containing viscous and mucinous gelatinous material, which is usually seen in middle-aged individuals. It is similar to soft-tissue ganglion cysts present in other parts of the body. We, hereby, report a rare case of idiopathic intraosseous ganglion of the tibia in a young adult who presented with chronic pain in his lower leg. The patient was subjected to X-ray and MRI investigations and managed by excisional curettage of the lesion and histopathological examination. On histopathology, the diagnosis of intraosseous ganglion was confirmed. On 2-year follow-up, the patient was doing well without any complication and recurrence. This report describes the diagnosis and successful management of intraosseous ganglion at a very rare site in a young individual. More in-depth studies are required to understand the predisposing factors, underlying pathology, early diagnosis, and management of this lesion.
Clinical and etiological profile of new-onset seizures in adult patients: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Sivakumaran K  , Jacinth Preethi J  , Sinrasu P  , Manikandan V
Published: December 2023

Background: In terms of the severity of the disease, the nature of the sickness, and its effects on the individual, the family, and the community, seizure disorder is a significant public health concern.
Aims and Objectives: This study evaluated the clinical and etiological profile of new-onset focal or generalized seizures in adult patients.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 100 new-onset seizure patients admitted to the Government Ariyalur Medical College Hospital. A detailed history was taken from the relatives about the type of seizure and comorbid conditions. An examination of the central nervous system was done to find any underlying neurological deficits. Investigations done in all patients were blood sugar, urea, creatinine, serum electrolytes, and liver function tests. ECG, chest X-ray, electroencephalographic, and computerized tomography of the brain. Magnetic resonance imaging brain was done in the indicated cases.
Results: Of the 100 patients, 76% were males and 24% were females. The majority of the patients belonged to the age group of 41–60 years (40%). The most common type of seizure observed was the generalized tonic-clonic type (49%), followed by the focal type of seizure (23%). Of the various comorbid illnesses observed, diabetes mellitus was seen in about 41% of the patients; hypertension was seen in 40% of the patients; chronic kidney disease was seen in 24%; and cerebrovascular diseases were seen in 15%. The commonest etiology of new-onset seizures observed in this study was metabolic causes, constituting 41% of the cases, cerebrovascular diseases (32%), and alcohol-related seizures (10%).
Conclusion: Accurate identification of the cause of adult-onset seizures is crucial, and knowledge of clinical and etiological profiles will facilitate better treatment.
Screening for sleep deprivation and mood states among staff nurses of tertiary care hospital in central India
Authors: Aryashree L  , Verma Prashant , Thakur Aditya , Dhakar Jagmohan Singh , Tiwari Rajesh
Published: December 2023

Background: A Nurse’s fatigue raises significant concerns for individual and patient safety. The impact of sleep deprivation on the quality of patient care is an important consideration in today’s health-care environment.
Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to find the proportion of sleep deprivation among nurses in a tertiary care hospital and to find the association between sleep deprivation and mood states among staff nurses.
Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional design done in a duration of 2 months from September to October 2022. The study group consisted of nurses working in a tertiary care hospital located in Jabalpur district. A sample size of 70 nurses was calculated through the statistical formula. The questionnaire has three sections: Demographics (nine questions), Epworth sleep scale (eight questions), and Profile of mood states (65 questions). The collected data were tabulated and analyzed using MS Office Excel and SPSS version 21.
Results: Interviews were conducted with 70 nurses and 8.6% of them were found to be excessively sleepy and should seek medical attention. Significant results have been obtained for the association with tension, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion with sleep deprivation.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that sleep deprivation exists in a considerable state. Some workplace interventions need to be done to make the efforts of nurses worthwhile and to increase their vigor and positive mood.
To study the planned surgical procedure in single-dose antibiotic prophylaxis
Authors: Chandrakala Dutt  , Dutt RD  , Tarushi Dutt  , Arya Jayendra
Published: December 2023

Background: Postoperative wound infection may be due to many causes, of which “microbial contamination” is the factor that is influenced by antibiotic administration. Since the concept of antimicrobial prophylaxis has emerged, several workers have searched for optimal antimicrobial drugs, their routes, and the timing of their administration, with the ultimate goal of achieving zero sepsis. The use of preoperative systemic antibiotics has brought down the incidence of wound infection considerably.
Aims and Objectives: The aim is to identify which drug is the best option for single-dose antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent postoperative wound infection.
Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study. The study was conducted in the surgical ward of J.A. Group of Hospitals, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India, from May 2020 to April 2022. Patients of all sexes and ages were included in the study. Patients were divided into five groups according to a class of antibiotics. The study consisted of a total of 125 patients admitted to the surgical ward. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences–(10 systems) was applied for the study. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: A total of 125 patients were studied in five groups, depending on the antibiotics. The A, B, C, and D groups were given only a single dose of antibiotics, while group E was given a full course of antibiotics during preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative periods. Out of 125 cases, only 5 patients had clinical and bacteriological evidence of wound sepsis in different groups of single-dose antibiotics, and one case in group E had multiple doses of antibiotic given. The wound infection rate in clean patients was 20% in ceftazidine, 12.5% with piperacillin tazobactum and cefoperazone sulbactum, and 21.1% in the multiple dose group. No infection was reported with amoxycillin-clavulanic acid. Staphylococcus, Escherichia Coli, and Klebsiella were the offending agents, and anaerobic infections were not found.
Conclusion: A single dose of antibiotic prevents the suppression of normal, sensitive microbial flora, which is usually seen with multiple doses of antibiotics. In this way, it helps in keeping the patients infection-free without interfering with their naturally inherited immunological status of the patient.
Prevalence of hematuria and proteinuria in asymptomatic pediatric age group in suburban Chennai
Authors: Belukurichi Sadasivam Sangeetha  , Rajesh Haridass  , Jamunarani Srirangaramasamy  , Chinnadurai Peermohamed Luck  , Sumithasree Ramamoorthi
Published: December 2023

Background: Hematuria is rare in normal physiology. Proteinuria is almost always abnormal. It has been reported that hematuria and proteinuria are present even in apparently healthy children.
Aims and Objectives: This study was carried out to find the prevalence of proteinuria and hematuria in asymptomatic pediatric age group in suburban Chennai.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out among 200 apparently healthy children of a suburban community in Chennai. Urine samples were collected from all children who satisfied the study criteria. The study period was from June 2020 to December 2021. The collected urine samples were analyzed in the laboratory for hematuria and proteinuria. The data were entered into Microsoft Excel and analyzed using SPSS version 23.
Results: Of the 200 children, 105 (52.5%) were males and 95 (47.5%) were females. The mean±standard deviation of the age of the study participants was 6.275±4.0362. Twenty-nine (14.5%) had hematuria, 45 (22.5%) had proteinuria, and 10 (5%) children had both.
Conclusion: Hematuria and proteinuria are present in asymptomatic children. Urinalysis is an effective, easy, and non-invasive screening method for early detection of an underlying renal disease.
Cervical intradural extramedullary chaotic lipoma in an elderly patient: A rare case report
Authors: Anurup Saha  , Sibaji Dasgupta
Published: December 2023

Intradural spinal lipoma (ISL) prevalent in children and young adults usually presents with spastic progressive quadriparesis, sensory disturbances, and gait abnormalities. Chaotic lipomas named due to their haphazard distribution are an extremely rare variant of ISL present at the dorsal root entry zone. We describe a case of chaotic spinal lipoma and elucidate the challenges faced in the management of this entity.
Morphometrical parameters of acetabulum of hip bone - An osteological study
Authors: Meril Ann Soman  , Rani Nallathamby  , Shivarama Bhat  , Godly Sara Sabu
Published: December 2023

Background: Acetabulum is an approximately hemispherical cavity on the lateral aspect of the hip bone. Acetabulum is not always of the same shape, size, or depth. Any deviations of the parameters from normal range have strong correlation with the development of various kinds of pathologies.
Aims and Objectives: Acetabulum is an approximately hemispherical cavity on the lateral aspect of the hip bone. Acetabulum is not always of the same shape, size or depth. Any deviations of the parameters from normal range have strong correlation with the development of various kinds of pathologies.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in department of Anatomy, Yenepoya Medical College, Mangalore. Two hundred hip bones were included in the study. Various parameters of the acetabulum were measured. The morphometrical parameters measured were: (a) Transverse diameter of acetabulum, (b) acetabular height, (c) acetabular depth, (d) acetabular volume, (e) distance from pubic tubercle to anterior rim of acetabulum, (f) ratio between distance from pubic tubercle to anterior rim of acetabulum and acetabular height. Range, mean, standard deviation, and standard error of mean were determined for each parameter. P value was also calculated to compare the parameters side wise.
Results: The independent T test was done and the P value was calculated for each parameter. Acetabular volume showed a significant difference between left- and right-sided bones. Most of the parameters showed highly significant difference between male and female hip bones in both right side and left side.
Conclusion: As total and partial hip replacements are common surgeries performed these days, knowledge of the dimensions of acetabulum will assist prosthetists to construct suitable prosthesis for Indian population. It would be also useful in the fields of anatomy, osteology, and anthropology.
A cross-sectional study of feeding practice status in children (6–23 months), association with malnutrition, and impacts of maternal determinants
Authors: Anil K Agarwal  , Anita Rajput  , Mahore RN  , Gunjan Dubey
Published: December 2023

Background: Inadequate complementary feeding practices lead to poor cognition, stunting, and increased rate of infections. Insight into deficiencies of complementary feeding practices could help in planning and implementing newer approaches at various levels of intersection.
Aims and Objectives: The aim and purpose of the study were to determine the complementary feeding practices, to identify maternal determinants of each practice, and to analyze the associations between complementary feeding practices with malnutrition.
Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Pediatrics, of a tertiary hospital over a 14-week period. All children aged 6–23 months were included in the study. Data were collected using a pre-structured questionnaire based on the World Health Organization Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) indicators for assessing IYCF practices.
Results: A total of 400 mothers participated in the study. The mean age of children was 12.58 20±5.02 months, male: female = 1.6:1. The mean age of starting complementary feeding was 6.81±1.79 months. Semisolid food was introduced in 90.2% of children, minimum dietary diversity was received by 61.0%, minimum meal frequency by 83.8%, and minimum acceptable diet by 58.2%, eggs and flesh by 14.2% and 3.5% children, respectively; only 9.2% received vitamin A rich fruits and 38.5% did not receive any vegetable or fruit. Bottle feeding was present in 55.5% of population. Maternal parameters (education, employment access to media) and socioeconomic status were significantly associated with feeding practices (P<0.05). A significant difference was found in the nutritional status (wasting and stunting) of children who did not receive minimum dietary diversity (P<0.01).
Conclusion: Wide gap exists in feeding practices even in urban settings and was significantly associated with child’s nutritional status.
Organophosphorus poisoning: A retrospective study on clinical profile and outcomes in ICU
Authors: Nadia Rose  , Sowmya Madihalli Janardhan Iyengar  , Navaneethan NK  , Sarath Chandra B
Published: December 2023

Background: Organophosphorus (OP) compounds are widely used in India as insecticides and contribute to both acute and chronic poisoning. Several parameters have been analyzed to evaluate the severity of poisoning and to prognosticate the outcome but contradictory results have been obtained from studies for example for the relationship between hypokalemia and outcome, pseudocholinesterase (PChE) levels, and outcome.
Aims and Objectives: The objectives of this retrospective study were to explore the epidemiological characteristics and clinical profile of patients admitted to intensive care unit with OP poisoning and to evaluate the outcomes including complications, in hospital mortality, and the predictors of mortality.
Materials and Methods: All the patients above 18 years admitted with a history of ingestion of OP poisoning during the study period were included in the study. Data were collected from case records.
Results: The mean age of the patients was 34±13.54. Fifty-four patients were male (69.2%) and 24 were female (30.8%). The correlation coefficient between intubation and PChE levels was 0.266. The mean period of ventilation was 4.16 days±2.41 days. About 80% (n=20) put on ventilator survived. Correlation of hypokalemia with patients getting ventilator support was 0.26 and that with mortality was 0.038.
Conclusion: OP poisoning cases were primarily noted in the younger male group with the intent to self-harm. Chlorpyrifos was the most common compound consumed. Early admission and appropriate treatment can reduce mortality and complications as there is no single factor which can be used to predict the outcome in these patients.
Rhomboid intercostal subserratus plane block – the Holy Grail of post-operative analgesia in modified radical mastectomy or just another dot in the long list?
Authors: Priyanka Bansal  , Nidhi Sultania  , Kunal Bansal
Published: December 2023

Despite the presence of numerous options for breast analgesia, our women continue to suffer the consequences of acute post-operative pain that progresses to chronic pain in up to 55% of the post-mastectomy patients a rapid surge in the use of interfacial blocks for analgesia of chest and abdominal procedures. The importance and efficacy of these blocks are because of the continuity of the interfacial planes across varied anatomical tissues. We report a series of cases of modified radical mastectomy (MRM) in five female patients with the American Society of Anesthesiology Grade II/III in whom rhomboid intercostal subserratus was used for post-operative analgesia proved to be a boon. Two were post-radiation with metastasis to axillary lymph nodes. The other three had invasive ductal carcinoma and were on chemotherapy. Rhomboid intercostal subserratus plain block is a novel block and provides pain management for patients of MRM. The analgesic efficacy may not be superior but the non-inferiority to an epidural is certainly an added advantage with safe efficacious profile fulfilling the enhanced recovery after surgery protocols following minimally invasive surgical techniques.