bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of a hinged pupil expansion device in small pupil cataract surgery
Authors: Uy Harvey S , Cruz Franz M , Kenyon Kenneth R
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a hinged pupil expansion device (PED) in eyes with small pupils undergoing phacoemulsification.

Methods:

In this prospective, multicenter, interventional case series of 57 eyes with suboptimal pharmacologic pupil dilation (<5 mm diameter), a hinged PED (I-Ring, Beaver-Visitec International, Waltham, MA) was applied to facilitate surgical visualization during cataract surgery. The pupil diameters (PD) were measured at different stages of the procedure and at the 1-month follow-up visit. Rate of successful intraoperative PED deployment, pupil size, and shape were assessed.

Results:

The mean patient age was 70.5 ± 12.1 years. The I-Ring PED was successfully applied in all eyes. The mean PD at various stages were 4.1 ± 1.1 mm (dilation with eye drops only preoperatively), 4.3 ± 1.1 mm (dilation after intracameral epinephrine and ophthalmic viscoelastic device), 6.80 ± 0.00 mm (with PED applied), and 5.7 ± 1.1 mm (end of surgery). A statistically significant difference (P < 0.001) was observed between the mean PD with intracameral medications and with PED application. Postoperative circular pupil was observed in 54 of 57 eyes (94.7%) and the mean eccentricity index (n = 57 eyes) was 0.11 ± 0.22. No significant adverse events were observed.

Conclusion:

The I-Ring PED safely and effectively provided and maintained adequate pupil expansion and surgical visualization in eyes with small pupils undergoing cataract surgery. Postoperatively 95% of eyes attained circular pupils. This hinged PED is an additional instrumentation option for the safe and effective expansion of inadequately sized pupils during cataract surgery.
Cobalt blue light unit filter - A smartphone attachment for blue light photography
Authors: Puthalath Athul S , Gupta Neeti , Samanta Ramanuj , Singh Anupam , Kumawat Devesh , Mittal Sanjeev K
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to carry out blue light photography of fluorescein-stained corneas using a novel smartphone attachment.

Methods:

A smartphone attachment known as the cobalt blue light unit (C-BLU) was developed. It can filter out all wavelengths of light except the blue light emerging from the flashlight of a smartphone. A pilot study was carried out wherein the images captured with the C-BLU system were compared with slit-lamp photographs of the same patients. This setup was then used to photo document fluorescein-stained corneas in various clinical settings assembled at point-of-care.

Results:

Many pathologies of the fluorescein-stained cornea were captured using the C-BLU filter. It was used effectively in various settings (remote eye camps, intensive care units (ICU), pediatric group, corneal trauma triaging, etc.). C-BLU was assembled and used by optometrists and ophthalmology residents. The images captured were used for documenting, assisting in the treatment, and also for telecommunication of the patients’ findings.

Conclusion:

C-BLU is a low-cost pocket-size filter which is easy to use with a modern smartphone without any technical expertise needed to obtain a clear image of fluorescein-stained pathological corneas.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the orbit, Part 2: Characterization of orbital pathologies
Authors: Nagesh Chinmay P , Rao Raksha , Hiremath Shivaprakash B , Honavar Santosh G
Published: October 2021

In this article we focus on a systematic approach to assess common orbital lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The identification of the probable compartment or structure of origin helps narrow the differential diagnosis of a lesion. Analyzing the morphology, appearance, and signal intensity on various sequences, the pattern, and degree of contrast enhancement are key to characterize lesions on MRI. Imaging features suggesting cellularity and vascularity can also be determined to help plan for biopsy or surgery of these lesions. MRI can also distinguish active from chronic disease in certain pathologies and aids in selecting appropriate medical management. MRI may thus serve as a diagnostic tool and help in guiding therapeutic strategies and posttreatment follow-up.
Xerophthalmia with secondary malabsorption syndrome in a young lady
Authors: Khan Shama Irfan , Kumar Arvind , Panda Prasan Kumar , Gupta Neeti
Published: October 2021

Delayed recognition and treatment of vitamin A deficiency (VAD) in adults leads to devastating complications. A 24-year-old woman presented with diarrhea, malaise, and shortness of breath. Her medical history included blunt abdominal trauma for which, she had bowel resection surgery and revision surgery within a year of the last surgery at the age of 8 years. She had difficulty in night vision and dry eyes. The best-corrected visual acuity was 6/18 in the BE. On slit-lamp examination in the both eyes (BE), the conjunctiva was thick, dry-looking with wrinkling, and the cornea had diffused superficial punctate keratitis and in the left eye, there was corneal xerosis of 1.5 × 1.5 mm. Tear film breakup time was 0-s in the BE. Schirmer's were 30 mm BE. The rest of the ocular examination was within normal limits. A clinical diagnosis of xerophthalmia secondary to malabsorption was made and treated with systemic vitamin A and intense lubrication. With time, ophthalmic conditions improved, but she died due to poor general wellbeing and repeated hospital-acquired infections. The infrequent presentation of VAD in adults and the unusual etiology in this patient make this case interesting, whereas its potentially devastating consequences highlight the importance of its early recognition, treatment, and regular follow up needed by both patient and physician in the community (general practitioner and ophthalmologists) for the prevention of VAD complications and poor prognosis.
The prevalence of E-cigarette uses among medical students at Umm Al-Qura University; a cross-sectional study 2020
Authors: Alshanberi Asim Muhammed , Baljoon Tebra , Bokhari Aziza , Alarif Sara , Madani Abrar , Hafiz Haneen , Altayyar Abrar , Abo-Ali Ehab A.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) is becoming increasingly popular worldwide, and commercially a commonplace in the media. Health concerns and the avoidance of smoking are the most frequently reported factors for conventional smokers to turn to e-cigarettes. However, there is insufficient information about the use of e-cigarettes in Makkah city; therefore, this study aims to determine the prevalence of electronic cigarette uses among medical students at Umm al-Qura University (UQU).

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in February 2020 among medical students at UQU, Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a prevalidated printed version of a self-questionnaire to determine the prevalence and the main factors that influence medical students to smoke e-cigarettes and to evaluate their awareness, knowledge, and attitude.

Results:

Out of 1249medical students, 910 participated in the survey, about 31.8 % of them confirmed using e-cigarette regularly. 14.7% think e-cigarettes are medically approved method for smoking cessation, while 59.5% believe it can cause addiction similar to tobacco cigarettes. Among the regular users, 24.3% used it to quit tobacco smoking, 18.9% think it is less harmful, 20.3 % use it because it is less costly, and 18.9% because of stress. Also, 28.4% found it tasty. 30.8% believed that it is less harmful, about 74% stated that they received information about e-cigarettes and only 16% of them received it from medical school.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of e-cigarette uses among medical student in UQU found to be relatively high, and their overall knowledge is insufficient, which conflict our hypothesis.
Clinical features and mortality in COVID-19 SARI versus non COVID-19 SARI cases from Western Rajasthan, India
Authors: Sharma Ankur , Kothari Nikhil , Goel Akhil Dhanesh , Narayanan Balakrishnan , Goyal Shilpa , Bhatia Pradeep , Kumar Deepak , Bohra Gopal Krishna , Chauhan Nishant Kumar , Jalandra Ramniwas , Dutt Naveen , Bhardwaj Pankaj , Garg Mahendra Kumar , Misra Sanjeev
Published: October 2021

Background:

In March 2020, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) issued guidelines that all patients presenting with severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) should be investigated for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Following the same protocol, in our institute, all patients with SARI were transferred to the COVID-19 suspect intensive care unit (ICU) and investigated for COVID-19.

Methods:

This study was planned to examine the demographical, clinical features, and outcomes of the first 500 suspected patients of COVID-19 with SARI admitted in the COVID-19 suspect ICU at a tertiary care center. Between March 7 and July 20, 2020, 500 patients were admitted to the COVID-19 suspect ICU. We analyzed the demographical, clinical features, and outcomes between COVID-19 positive and negative SARI cases. The records of all the patients were reviewed until July 31, 2020.

Results:

Of the 500 suspected patients admitted to the hospital, 88 patients showed positive results for COVID-19 by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of the nasopharyngeal swabs. The mean age in the positive group was higher (55.31 ± 16.16 years) than in the negative group (40.46 ± 17.49 years) (P < 0.001). Forty-seven (53.4%) of these patients in the COVID-19 positive group and 217 (52.7%) from the negative group suffered from previously known comorbidities. The common symptoms included fever, cough, sore throat, and dyspnea. Eighty-five (20.6%) patients died in the COVID-19 negative group, and 30 (34.1%) died in the COVID-19 positive group (P = 0.006). Deaths among the COVID-19 positive group had a significantly higher age than deaths in the COVID-19 negative group (P < 0.001). Among the patients who died with positive COVID-19 status had substantially higher neutrophilia and lymphopenia (P < 0.001). X-ray chest abnormalities were almost three times more likely in COVID-19 deaths (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

In the present article, 17.6% of SARI were due to COVID-19 infection with significantly higher mortality (34.1%) in COVID-19 positive patients with SARI. Although all patients presenting as SARI have considerable mortality rates, the COVID-19-associated SARI cases thus had an almost one-third risk of mortality.
Effect of peer support on breastfeeding self-efficacy in ilamian primiparous women
Authors: Chehreh Razhan , Zahrani Shahnaz Tork , Karamelahi Zolaykha , Baghban Alerza Akbarzadeh
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Mother's belief, ability, and self-confidence, which is interpreted as breastfeeding self-efficacy, play a key role in the initiation and continuation of breastfeeding. Numerous factors affect this ability of the mother. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of peer support on breastfeeding self-efficacy in primiparous women.

Materials and Methods:

In this clinical trial, 240 primiparous women were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. The control group program included routine training, and the experimental group received counseling and training by 30 peers during the first three months after delivery. To determine breastfeeding self-efficacy, Denis's long-term breastfeeding self-efficacy questionnaire was used at the end of week 12 after delivery. Data were analyzed using SPSS software program, version 16.0 and independent t test, Chi-square test, and Mann–Whitney U test.

Results:

The mean of breastfeeding self-efficacy score at the end of week 12 after delivery was 141.11 ± 93.4 in the experimental group versus 114.40 ± 60.16 in the control group. Then, the two groups had a statistically significant difference (P = 0.001). Also, exclusive breastfeeding in the experimental group was higher than in the control group (P = 0.001).

Conclusion:

Peer support for primiparous women can effectively improve breastfeeding self-efficacy and continuity of exclusive breastfeeding.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in lean and obese patients in Saudi patients from a single center
Authors: Alsuhaibani Khalid A. , Althunayyan Faris S. , Alsudays Ali M. , Alharbi Ahmad A. , Aljarallah Badr M.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Fatty liver is a disease caused by the accumulation of fat in the liver. It is one of the major risk factors for developing cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Saudi Arabia is one of the most prevalent countries in diabetes and obesity; the overall prevalence of diabetes is 23.7% and obesity is 35.6%.

Aim:

To study the correlation between fatty liver finding on abdominal ultrasound (US) and their clinical and biochemical profile including BMI, blood glucose level, lipid profile, liver function tests, and blood pressure in both group lean and obese patients.

Methods:

Cross-sectional study of 346 fatty liver ultrasound-proven patients were enrolled in the study from January to May 2016 in King Saud Hospital- Qassim, Saudi Arabia.

Results:

Mean age of the participants was 50.3 years. Female participants were 55% of the cohort. Participants were divided based on their BMI: BMI <25 (lean), BMI of 25–30 (overweight and mild obesity), and BMI >30 (morbid obesity). We found that cholesterol (P = 0.007) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (P = 0.015) were higher in lean compared to others (5 and 3.1), respectively. Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) was higher in mildly obese patients (113.2) and ALT, which was higher in lean patients (60.4). In addition, 34.5% of the overall patients had Diabetes Mellitus (DM). We found that HbA1c was lower in lean (7.3) compared to morbidly obese patients (7.6). Platelets counts were higher in morbidly obese patients (278) compared to other groups.

Conclusion:

High cholesterol and LDL strongly correlated with lean fatty liver patients. There was a significant relationship between the female gender and the risk of development of fatty liver. However, liver enzymes were within the normal range, except GGT, which was higher in all the groups, with the highest value in mildly obese patients. Therefore, they are not sensitive for diagnosing fatty liver patients.
The barriers for tobacco cessation counseling in teaching health care institutions
Authors: Koka Krishna M. , Yadlapalli Sravanthi , Pillarisetti Pranitha , Yasangi Manoj Kumar , Yaragani Anusha , Kummamuru Satyendra
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Recently, Dental Council of India directed all the teaching dental institutions in the country to set up tobacco cessation centers (TCC). International experiences suggest that there are many barriers for the provision of tobacco cessation counseling at dental clinics. In this context, it is important to understand the dental students' attitudes toward this initiative of tobacco cessation counseling at dental settings.

Materials and Methods:

This qualitative study to document the dental students' perspectives toward the provision of tobacco cessation counseling using focus group interviews was conducted in two teaching dental institutions in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. 133 house surgeons from two dental institutions participated in the study and were interviewed as 13 focus groups. MAXQDA (version 12, VERBI GmbH, Berlin, Germany) was used for data analysis. All the interviews were audio recorded and the transcripts were open coded by three independent investigators.

Results:

The response rate in this study was 78.45%. The following themes were extracted from the views and opinions shared by the students: the reluctance of patients to discuss tobacco-related problems; tobacco use among students discouraging them to actively participate in counseling; an opinion that dental clinics are not suitable for the provision of tobacco cessation counseling; belief among students that they are not qualified enough.

Conclusion:

The directives given by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in association with Dental council of India to set up TCC at every teaching dental institution are laudable and demonstrate the commitment at policy level toward bringing down tobacco consumption in the country. However, few reforms need to be made in the curriculum to better execute the delegated responsibilities, which include orientation programs for dental students on the scope of the dental profession and workshops on tobacco cessation counseling.
Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics associated with COVID mortality among hospitalized patients in Rajasthan
Authors: Verma Anjana , Patyal Ashish , Mathur Medha , Choudhary Suresh , Mathur Navgeet
Published: October 2021

Background:

It has been over a year since the declaration of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as pandemic by World Health Organization on March 11, 2020. Although mortality in India is low, as compared to western countries, the steady increase in the number of cases is still a worrying sign. The objectives of this study were to identify and quantify the association between sociodemographic and clinical characteristics with mortality among patients, suffering from COVID-19 at a tertiary care hospital in Udaipur, Rajasthan.

Material and Methods:

This retrospective observational study involved 824 patients hospitalized for COVID 19 at a tertiary hospital in Udaipur, who were discharged or had died. Electronic health records of the patients were accessed to retrieve the sociodemographic information (age, gender, residence, religion, socioeconomic status), history of exposure, clinical characteristics on admission, comorbidities, and outcomes (recovery or death). The Cox regression model was used to calculate associations between mortality and baseline characteristics in the form of hazard ratios (HRs).

Results:

Mortality in this study was found to be 5.82%. The mean age of the patients was 48.14 ± 16.2 years. The median time from time of admission to discharge was 8 days (interquartile range (IQR) 5–11), whereas the median time to death was 5 days (IQR 4–10). The variables found to be associated with higher mortality were age (HR 1.17; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.15–1.24), residing in urban area (HR 1.29; 95% CI 1.17–2.15), diabetes mellitus (HR 1.3; CI 1.02–5.57), and patients having both diabetes and hypertension (HR 2.4; CI 1.69–3.14).

Conclusion:

Sociodemographic variables and comorbidities impact the mortality among COVID 19 patients. The variables most clearly associated with a greater hazard of death were older age, urban area, diabetes, and having both diabetes and hypertension.
Epidemiological determinants of leptospirosis in rural and urban districts of Maharashtra, India
Authors: Kembhavi Ravindra S. , Velhal Gajanan D. , Shah Anuradha K.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Leptospirosis is emerging as one of the growing public health problems in many parts of India. It can occur in both rural and urban areas with varied risk factors. This study was taken up in three districts of Maharashtra namely—Mumbai, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg to understand the determinants of leptospirosis in both the urban and rural areas and look for differences if any.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was carried out during the year 2017. A pretested validated questionnaire was used to collect data. Field observations were made. Eighty-seven cases from Sindhudurg and 14 from Ratnagiri and 307 cases from Mumbai were included in the study.

Results:

A total of 408 cases were included in the study. A total of 63 (62.4%) were males and 38 (37.6%) were females. Most cases belonged to the 20–35 year age group (37%). In rural areas, 32.7% of them visited government facilities first, whereas, in the urban areas, it was 73.9% (P = 0.006). Headache, myalgia, and prostration were more common in cases from rural areas (P = <0.05). Skin rash was found to be associated with urban cases of leptospirosis. The presence of rodents, cattle sheds, pets, and working in paddy fields were common environmental risks in rural areas, and using water for recreational activities were common in urban areas (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Context-specific risk factors were found significantly associated with the cases. No important difference was found in the epidemiology of leptospirosis in the urban and rural areas except the source of infection.
Agreement between WHO-UMC causality scale and the Naranjo algorithm for causality assessment of adverse drug reactions
Authors: Shukla Ajay K. , Jhaj Ratinder , Misra Saurav , Ahmed Shah N. , Nanda Malaya , Chaudhary Deepa
Published: October 2021

Background:

The Pharmacovigilance Program of India recommends the use of the World Health Organization-Uppsala Monitoring Centre (WHO-UMC) scale, while many clinicians prefer the Naranjo algorithm for its simplicity. In the present study, we assessed agreement between the two widely used causality assessment scales, that is, the WHO-UMC criteria and the Naranjo algorithm.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, 842 individual case safety reports were randomly selected from 1000 spontaneously reported forms submitted to the ADR Monitoring Center at a tertiary healthcare Institute in Central India between 2016 and 2018. Two well-trained independent groups performed the causality assessment. One group performed a causality assessment of the 842 ADRs using the WHO-UMC criteria and the other group performed the same using the Naranjo algorithm. The agreement between two ADR causality scales was assessed using the weighted kappa (κ) test.

Results:

Cohen's kappa coefficient (κ) statistical test was applied between the two scales (WHO-UMC scale and Naranjo algorithm) to find out the agreement between these two scales. “No” agreement was found between the two scales {Kappa statistic with 95% confidence interval = 0.048 (P < 0.001)}.

Conclusion:

There was no agreement found between the WHO-UMC criteria and the Naranjo algorithm in our study.
Love in the time of corona
Authors: Shah Janhavi
Published: October 2021

This is a story about finding joy and love in unexpected times and places. I am a family medicine resident in rural India nearing the end of my training. Family physicians rise to the occasion no matter what. Here, I describe how two of us met and managed a wedding in the midst of a lockdown.
The Feasibility of Using Biomarkers Derived from Circulating Tumor DNA Sequencing as Predictive Classifiers in Patients with Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Feng Yu , Liu Yutao , Yuan Mingming , Dong Guilan , Zhang Hongxia , Zhang Tongmei , Chang Lianpeng , Xia Xuefeng , Li Lifeng , Zhu Haohua , Xing Puyuan , Wang Hongyu , Shi Yuankai , Wang Zhijie , Hu Xingsheng
Published: October 2021

Purpose To investigate the feasibility of biomarkers based on dynamic circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) to classify small cell lung cancer (SCLC) into different subtypes. Materials and Methods Tumor and longitudinal plasma ctDNA samples were analyzed by next-generation sequencing of 1,021 genes. PyClone was used to infer the molecular tumor burden index (mTBI). Pre-treatment tumor tissues [T1] and serial plasma samples were collected (pre-treatment [B1], after two [B2], six [B3] cycles of chemotherapy and at progression [B4]). Results Overall concordance between T1 and B1 sequencing (n=30) was 66.5%, and 89.5% in the gene of RB1. A classification method was designed according to the changes of RB1 mutation, named as subtype Ⅰ (both positive at B1 and B2), subtype Ⅱ (positive at B1 but negative at B2), and subtype Ⅲ (both negative at B1 and B2). The median progressive-free survival for subtype Ⅰ patients (4.5 months [95%CI: 2.6-5.8]) was inferior to subtype Ⅱ (not reached, p<0.0001) and subtype Ⅲ (10.8 months [95%CI: 6.0-14.4], p=0.002). The median overall survival for subtype Ⅰ patients (16.3 months [95%CI: 5.3-22.9]) was inferior to subtype Ⅱ (not reached, p=0.01) and subtype Ⅲ (not reached, p=0.02). Patients with a mTBI dropped to zero at B2 had longer median overall survival (not reached vs. 19.5 months, p=0.01). The changes of mTBI from B4 to B1 were sensitive to predict new metastases, with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 85.7%. Conclusion Monitoring ctDNA based RB1 mutation and mTBI provided a feasible tool to predict the prognosis of SCLC.
Ideals of étale groupoid algebras and Exel’s Effros–Hahn conjecture
Authors: Steinberg Benjamin
Published: October 2021

We extend to arbitrary commutative base rings a recent result of Demeneghi that every ideal of an ample groupoid algebra over a field is an intersection of kernels of induced representations from isotropy groups, with a much shorter proof, by using the author’s Disintegration Theorem for groupoid representations. We also prove that every primitive ideal is the kernel of an induced representation from an isotropy group; however, we are unable to show, in general, that it is the kernel of an irreducible induced representation. If each isotropy group is finite (e.g., if the groupoid is principal) and if the base ring is Artinian (e.g., a field), then we can show that every primitive ideal is the kernel of an irreducible representation induced from isotropy.
Del “engaño de masas” de la teoría crítica al “vecindario indefinido” de Bauman
Authors: Núñez Ladevéze Luis , Vázquez Barrio Tamara , Álvarez de Mon Pan de Soraluce Ignacio
Published: October 2021

Introducción. Frente a la atribución al progreso comunicativo de un imperativo políticamente democratizador, Bauman, en su póstuma Retrotopía, describe la red como flujo individualista de autorreproducción expansiva que forma un «vecindario indefinido global» de «servidumbre voluntaria». Método. Análisis fenomenológico del diagnóstico de Bauman mediante revisión de sus obras. Adoptada la perspectiva del «vecindario indefinido», examinar si las tendencias de la red pueden interpretarse como consumismo masivo igualitario o como imperativamente democratizadoras. Resultados. La proposición de que la red global de comunicación interindividual generaliza una «servidumbre voluntaria» merece ser planteada en proyectos de investigación empírica como hipótesis contrastable. Discusión. La red ecuménica de prosumidores que constituye el «vecindario indefinido» en la globalización líquida necesita ser visible en todos los ámbitos sociales y en el mercado. Conclusiones. La condición para establecer una relación entre teoría crítica y empiría es circular: requiere describir la “visibilidad” por medios cuantitativos como suma de elecciones individuales.
Retos del periodismo frente a las redes sociales, las fake news y la desconfianza de la generación Z
Authors: Pérez-Escoda Ana , Pedrero Esteban Luis Miguel
Published: October 2021

Introducción: Las redes sociales se han convertido en el actual escenario de crisis no sólo en el canal más consumido por los jóvenes, sino también en un caudal descontrolado de informaciones que tienden a polarizar las opiniones, a alimentar las controversias y a sembrar desconfianzas. Los medios –y con ellos los periodistas– deben definir nuevos modelos comunicativos adaptados a estos espacios virtuales donde recuperen su legitimidad y contrarresten la problemática expansión de la desinformación. Este trabajo se centra en el estudio de la confianza, el consumo y la percepción de los jóvenes españoles hacia los medios y las fake news sobre la premisa de que el conocimiento de las audiencias ayudará a los profesionales a recuperar la esencia del periodismo. Metodología: A partir de una metodología cuantitativa de carácter descriptivo y exploratorio, se aplica un cuestionario a una población de 465 jóvenes entre 18 y 24 años. El análisis se centra en dos constructos de estudio: 1) uso y consumo de medios y redes sociales; y 2) recepción, distinción y percepción de las fake news. Resultados: Los resultados evidencian una desconfianza abierta de la generación Z hacia a los medios, las redes, los políticos y los periodistas. La gran paradoja es que, admitiendo su recelo hacia las redes, los jóvenes declaran su consumo masivo. Discusión y conclusiones: La adecuación entre la información que se comunica y la realidad, así como la conexión con las expectativas de quienes la reciben, se convierte en una necesidad sustancial para el periodismo en el reto de legitimar su discurso en las redes sociales.
Effects of gamma irradiation and ethyl methane sulphonate on morphometric traits and prevalence of common viral diseases and whiteflies in cassava.
Authors: Baguma J.K. , Ogwok E. , Elegba W. , Sarkodie A. , Otu S. , Apio H.B. , Kawuki R.S. , Bua A. , Danso K. , Alicai T.
Published: October 2021

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is an important staple and food security crop for millions of people in Africa. However, its nutritional value is limited; yet its productivity is constrained by several pests and diseases. Induced mutagenesis is one approach with the potential to overcome such biotic stresses. The objective of this study was to assess the variability in morphometric traits and prevalence of common viral diseases and whiteflies in cassava to different doses and concentrations of gamma irradiation and ethyl methane sulphonate (ems) treatments. The effects were assessed on seed germination and growth of stakes, as well as foliar viral disease symptoms and whitefly counts. Radio-sensitivity tests revealed LD50 for sprouting as 37.6Gy for g-irradiation and 0.08% for EMS treatment. There was notable decrease in sprout, epicotyl length, shoot height, petiole length and number of leaf lobes, with increasing g-ray doses and EMS concentrations. Contrastingly, total chlorophyll content increased with increasing doses of g-rays and EMS concentrations. Basing on foliar whitefly counts and disease symptoms, there was a general increase in susceptibility to whitefly infestation and cassava mosaic disease (CMD) incidence. Significantly varying levels of resistance or tolerance to whiteflies and CMD were observed among plantlets derived from irradiated and EMS treated stems, compared to the controls. These findings lay a foundation for more future research on breeding for various traits, including disease resistance in cassava using induced mutagenesis approach.
Improved callogenesis and plant regeneration from immature male flowers of East African highland banana cv. “Nakitembe” (AAA-EA)
Authors: Talengera D. , Mwami C. , Tazuba A.F. , Namukwaya B.
Published: October 2021

Application of biotechnological tools in breeding, germplasm conservation and propagation of the East African bananas (Musa sp.) is limited by the crop’s recalcitrance to somatic embryogenesis. This study was undertaken to establish an efficient callus induction and plant regeneration protocol from immature male flowers in the most commercial and farmer preferred banana cultivar “Nakitembe”. Embryogenic callusing was improved from 2.9% on conventional MA1 culture medium to 4.2% with 500 mg L-1 L-Glutamine, 500 mg L-1 L-Proline and 300 mg L-1 casein hydrolysate supplements. A combination of the three amino acids with Chui N6 salts yielded the highest callusing of 10.2%. Cell suspensions were developed and maintained on conventional MS based MA2 medium. Subsequently, the highest efficiency of embryos germination (up to 80%) was achieved on MA4 medium, supplemented with 2.25 mg L-1 BAP and 0.2 mg L-1 IAA. The developed protocol has been successfully applied in Agrobacterium mediated genetic transformations of this variety.
Effects of Child Abuse on Academic Performance of Primary School Pupils in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Tersoo Timothy Tsegba  , Ologele Ibrahim , Kafayah Adeola Jidda  , Joseph Abiodun Stephen
Published: October 2021

Several factors contributing to the low standard of education in Nigeria where child abuse identified to be an important factor. The study, therefore, investigates the effect of child abuse on the academic performance of primary school pupils in the Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. The population of the study comprised all primary school pupils and their teachers in the study area. The descriptive research design of survey type employed for the study. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select ten public primary schools out of fifty seven public primary schools in the study area. Nine hundred and forty–six (946) respondents selected for the study. Researchers developed a questionnaire validated by three experts from the related field was used as an instrument for the study. The findings revealed that child abuse has a significant effect on pupils participation in the class and also had a significant effect on pupils assessment in the Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. The researchers' recommends among others that the government should carry out an enlightenment campaign through mass media for parents and guardians on the consequences of child abuse on the educational achievement of primary school pupils to improve their participation in classes as well as improve their assessment grades in test and examination.
Qualitative Research in Applied Linguistics: A Practical Introduction, edited by Juanita Heigham and Robert Croker
Authors: Siddiqui Kamran Akhtar , Bahawal Soomro  , Rashid Hussain Abbasi  , Usama Abdul Rehman  , Aizaz Soomro
Published: October 2021

This review makes a point in favor of the assertion made for the book that it is a practical introduction to the qualitative research in applied linguistics. The book consists of four parts: an overview of qualitative research, qualitative research methods, qualitative data collection methods, ethical practice issues and the writing of research reports. After proving a rich introduction to the qualitative research, the book discusses qualitative research approaches using a reader-friendly and interactive structure: pre-reading and post-reading questions along with the list of further readings. Then the data collection tools have been thoroughly discussed. What makes this book more useful is the use of illustrative examples for each qualitative research approach and data collection tool. The last part discusses core issues of ethics and drafting a research report. From the perspective of a novice researcher, it has achieved the goal of educating readers about qualitative research methods and data collection tools, as it gradually tracks the reader and provides them with a linking concept for a better understanding. However, reference to one study for both ethnography and case study remains a confusing point. Besides, the review suggests addition of some images to make reading of the book more interesting, especially for visual learners. Besides, a diagram should be given at the end of research methods chapters to outline the steps taken by researchers to do their studies.
Prophetic Education at Pesantren As A Efforts To Prevent Religious Radicalism
Authors: Dimas Indianto s  , Sunhaji  , Intan Nur Azizah  , Ahmad Roja Badrus Zaman
Published: October 2021

Whether it is recognized or not, religion is the most influencing factor in many social conflict phenomena. An unbalanced understanding of religion is suspected of being one of the triggers. Thus, efforts are needed to educate the public about good religious behaviour so that people understand that religion's existence is to create harmony in life, not contrary to incite hostility. Pesantren is one of the alternatives which is expected to be a way out to untangle the tangled threads of religious issues that have become a classic problem in Indonesia today. Pesantren have an essential role in realizing peace in heterogeneous life, namely through prophetic education. One of the pesantren that applies a predictive education pattern is Pesantren An Najah  Purwokerto. This research is qualitative, to analyze prophetic teaching at Pesantren An Najah  Purwokerto to prevent religious radicalism and describe the supporting and inhibiting factors of prophetic education at Pesantren An Najah  Purwokerto. The results showed that the application of prophetic teaching at Pesantren An Najah Purwokerto through several activities, including (1) Introducing the concept of "liyan" or the other in the context of social or community life; (2) Grounding the rationales of the "hubbul wathan" nationalism; (3) Implementing "Peace Education". (4) Religious education based on local culture.
The Development of Two Stay-Two Stray Cooperative Learning Instrument on Respiratory System to Improve Scientific Literacy Skills
Authors: Sylvani Kumala Ulinnuha  , Muslimin Ibrahim  , Utiyah Azizah
Published: October 2021

Science literacy is an ability to understand, communicate science through oral or written, apply and analyze the current scientific issues in society.  This study aims to produce a valid, practical, and effective learning tool, and has been carried out using the 4D (Define, Design, Development, and Disseminate) method; however, the Disseminate one wasn’t carried out. The examination was limited in using one group pretest-post test design. The study was conducted within two meetings with 16 who were doing online learning. The data retrieval used a validated instrument. RPP tools with very decent results, LKPD tools (Student Worksheets) with very decent results, and test kits (Pre-test and post-test) with very decent results. As the result, the learning method shows to be very decent, effective, and practical, while the items of the method used are included in the sensitive category ≥0.30.
Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) Model to Students Improve Learning Outcome at Senior High School of Model Terpadu Bojonegoro
Authors: Tamam Syaifuddin  , Luthfiyah Nurlaela  , Sukma Perdana P
Published: October 2021

The purpose of the study was to analyze the improvement of student learning outcomes with the Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) learning model at Senior High School of Model Terpadu Bojonegoro in Civics subjects. The experimental study used a factorial design using pre-test and post-test. Collecting data using observation, documentation, and test methods. The research sample was carried out in class XI of Bojonegoro Model Terpadu Senior High School, a total of 120 students were in 4 (four) classes, each class consisted of 30 students. The technique used to check the validity in this study is triangulation and review of informants. Based on the results of research and discussion, it can be concluded that the application of the Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) learning model can improve Civics learning outcomes for XI grade students at Senior High School of Model Terpadu Bojonegoro. Increase in student learning outcomes by 7.08% in the second cycle.
Assessment for Learning: Changes in the Role of Assessment in Learning
Authors: Tatang Mulyana  , Surti Kurniasih  , Didit Ardianto
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this research is to describe the state of assessment for learning (AfL) in science learning. The research was conducted in February 2021. This research was conducted with a descriptive method using data collection techniques, namely a survey via google form. Before the instrument is used, calibration and testing are carried out and the test results of all items are declared valid and reliable. The results showed that the teacher agreed to the use of Assessment for Learning (AfL) in science learning, which could activate the learning process and accelerate the achievement of goals. In addition to the use of Assessment for Learning (AfL) in science learning, teachers also answered effectively in developing students' literacy skills according to subject coverage. Assesment for Learning (AfL) provides an overview of how students learn and achieve learning goals effectively that can be reported to students' parents. The obstacle in implementing assessment for learning (AfL) is that teachers still find it difficult to compile and develop assessment-based learning designs that are in accordance with process standards, so that most of these teachers adopt learning designs that are already available from various sources, so that the role of assessment is not yet a an integral part of the teaching and learning process.
Online Learning System for Kampus Merdeka : Innovative Learning In Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Budi Harijanto  , Meyti Eka Apriyani  , Elok Nur Hamdana
Published: October 2021

Innovations in learning media for "Kampus Merdeka" currently require students active roles in online lectures and interact with lecturers and college friends to be able to use social networking media. Massive Online Open Course (MOOC) is web-based learning that can be accessed anywhere and anytime by integrating technology into the learning process that can help improve understanding of the material. In this reasearch an online learning design using MOOC as a solution in the implementation of "Kampus Merdeka" using Web Programming Design course. The reason for choosing these subjects is because practical learning activities require an understanding of a strong theoretical basis. Learning Outcomes in this course are students can understand the basics and concepts in website before finally carrying out the practicum. In the study sample population in the MOOC Web Programming course which was attended by 30 students from various backgrounds, it was seen that on average 78.2% interesting join the MOOC online class. The results of this percentage show that students are interested in joining MOOC online classes because they can provide a self-development model, namely institutional (materials that are in accordance with the syllabus), pedagogical in the form of learning videos) and technical (in the form of practicums)
The Effects of Non-Digital Game-Based Learning on Students’ Mathematical Perspectives and Achievements
Authors: Mohd. Yusof Nurul Aqilah , Shahrill Masitah
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of non-digital game-based learning approach by assessing the students’ achievement score differences of the pre-test with the post-test on the topic of multiplication and division with indices. A paired sample t-test was used to investigate whether there is a significant difference in the students’ achievements after implementing the non-digital game-based learning intervention. A total of 35 students from two Year 9 classes in one of the secondary schools in Brunei Darussalam were involved in the study. Another aim of this study is also to investigate on the students’ perspectives on using non-digital game-based learning approach in their learning process. This was analysed through the questionnaire and interviews. The results showed that the integration of non-digital game-based learning in the mathematics lesson did have a positive effect on the students’ achievement scores. More than half of the students believed that the game has helped them to improve their skills.
Nous: Philosophische Texte zum Schmunzeln und Staunen
Authors: Anders Anika , Knitsch Karin , Lucht Annika , Neumann Carolin , Reiners-Selbach Stefan , Said Timor , Sönmeztürk Seda , Zimmermann Philipp
Published: October 2021

Im Rahmen eines Seminars der Fakultät für Philosophie I an der Ruhr-Universität Bochum setzten sich Studierende im Sommersemester 2017 mit populärwissenschaftlichen Einführungen in die Philosophie auseinander - ein Jahr später nahmen sie selbst die Feder in die Hand. In dem Seminar „Philosophisches Schreiben“ trafen sich im Sommersemester 2018 wöchentlich bis zu 45 Nachwuchsphilosoph:innen, die den Raum bekamen, ihre eigenen philosophischen Texte einander vorzustellen. Nach dem Vorbild der Gruppe 47 wurden die Beiträge kritisch reflektiert und diskutiert, um adressatengerechte und kreative Geschichten, Gedichte oder Essays zu entwickeln, die Lust auf mehr Philosophie machen. In dieser Anthologie mit dem Namen „Nous. Philosophische Texte zum Schmunzeln und Staunen“ finden sich ausgewählte Beiträge wieder, die in den verschiedensten literarischen Formen philosophische Phänomene und Theorien aufbereiten. Philosophie wird somit nicht nur unterhaltsam und lebensnah vermittelt, sondern ist auch ohne Vorwissen leicht zugänglich und verständlich. Das Ziel dieses Werks ist es, die Philosophie in ihren verschiedensten Facetten aus dem sprichwörtlichen „Elfenbeinturm“ der Universität heraus, in das alltägliche Leben von Jedermann zu bringen. So richten sich die Beiträge an Philosophieinteressierte und -begeisterte, die neugierig auf die bunte Welt der Philosophie sind.
Post Slavery and the Plight of Black Americans: An Analysis of Langston Hughes’ “Not without Laughter”
Authors: Ncube Christopher , Dhliwayo Alice
Published: October 2021

This paper discussed the lives of black Americans in the Post Slavery period. It was believed that black Americans who were former slaves were then free from being treated brutally by the slave masters and that the whipping of the so called offenders was a thing of the past. On the contrary, Black Americans were not free to receive education, have access to legal marriages, own properties and enjoy all other benefits that an American should enjoy. Life after slavery was still difficult. The reality was that black Americans were free only in a narrow sense as they were still discriminated by the government institutions. This gave rise to activism and movements such as Civil Rights Movement and Black Power Movement. Great Black scholars, The Talented Tenth, such as Alice Walker, Du Bois, and Langston Hughes emerged. Not without Laughter is one of the books that Langston Hughes wrote. This paper is an analysis of civil injustices that Black Americans had to endure according to Hughes in Not without Laughter. Today, the situation has not changed much as racism is still rampant as depicted by violence still perpetrated against the Blacks. The rise of the Black Lives Matter Movement worldwide against the death of Floyd in the USA gives evidence to such. One encouraging aspect, though, is that the current President, Joe Biden is against racism as he has ordered that those that killed Floyd should face the full wrath of the law.
The Influence of Summative Evaluation on Classroom Practices in
Rarieda Sub-County, Kenya
Authors: Olela Michael , Allida Daniel , M. Role Elizabeth
Published: October 2021

This study investigated the perceptions on summative evaluation and its influences on the teachers’ classroom practices among secondary schools in Rarieda Sub-county in Kenya. The study was guided by the extrinsic and intrinsic motivational theories. It employed the descriptive and correlational research designs. Stratified and simple random sampling techniques were used to obtain the sample of 250 teachers who participated in the stud through questionnaire and focus group discussion. Data was analyzed descriptively, thematically and through Pearson Correlations. The study revealed that the teachers had positive perceptions of both the classroom summative evaluation and national examination. In addition, the study established that there is significant relationship between perceptions on classroom summative evaluation and classroom management (r=.264), formative assessment (r=.383) and syllabus completion (r=.192) and between perceptions on national examination and lesson preparation (r=.281), lesson implementation (lower-order/higher-order) (r=.183), (r=.281), classroom management (r=.451) and formative assessment (r=.541). The study recommended that teachers should give their focus to students’ acquisition of attitudes, values and skills that are needful in this century. They should also adopt good classroom practices to ensure in-depth learning.