bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Islands and Resilience Experiences From the Pandemic Era
Authors: Dávid Lóránt Dénes , El Archi Youssef , Benbba Brahim , Zhu Kai
Published: June 2023

This is a complete book that fits the aims and scope of the SpringerBriefs on Case Studies of Sustainable Development. This book offers a multidisciplinary perspective on resilience in the context of islands. By exploring different facets of resilience, from social inclusion to wayfinding,
the authors aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of what resilience means for island communities, and how it can be fostered in the face of crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pengembangan Modul Berbasis Blended Learning Pendidikan Agama Buddha Materi Kelas VII Semester Ganjil di SMP Kabupaten Blitar
Authors: Aningsih Dwi , Sadtyadi Hesti , Darma Widia
Published: June 2023

Students who have grown accustomed to online instruction may experience cognitive dissonance while transitioning back to traditional classroom settings due to Covid-19's oversight. The creation of a blended learning module that incorporates online and in-person instruction is one approach to resolving the issue of how to carry out the learning process. This research set out to answer two questions: (1) how one might go about creating a blended learning module, and (2) whether or not such a module might be used effectively to teach Buddhist religious education content to seventh-semester middle school. Cennamo and Kalk's Spiral model is used for this study. In the spiral model, you first define the problem, then create a solution, then show how it works, and last deliver the solution. The average proportion, based on questionnaire data from large-scale experiments, was 92.24%. This blended learning module of Buddhist religious education has been found to be quite viable in order to be used for seventh grade students in junior high schools in Blitar Regency, as per the previously established requirements. Blended learning-based module solutions are suitable for usage as demonstrated by the results of completed questionnaires from content experts and media experts. The average percentage acquired in the massive study, as calculated by the table data from the questionnaires, was 92.24%. The integrated learning module for Buddhist religious education has been found to be quite viable in order to be used and applied to pupils in Blitar Regency's seventh grade of junior high school. After that, SPSS factor analysis indicated that the KMO and Bartlett's Test values were both more than 0.5, indicating that the product was viable. As a result, the study determines that the module can be used.
IMPROVEMENT OF HIGHER EDUCATION STUDY PROCESS BASED ON MULTIMEDIA VISUALIZATION SOFTWARE
Authors:   Samarkand State University, Faculty Of Mathematics Applied Mathematics, 2nd Year Graduate Student, Uzbekistan, Ugli Meliboyev Shakhzod Ibragim
Published: June 2023

The article discusses the use of multimedia technologies in vocational education, allowing for the design, implementation of content, methods, and forms of education effectively with the task of achieving the goals of the educational process, which involve the use of hardware and software multimedia and interactive software. Multimedia technologies are equipped with educational resources, which are considered one of the most powerful, since their use ensures the formation of the student, as well as the manifestation of his core competencies. The use of multimedia technologies in the learning process is associated with its enrichment due to the effectiveness of this application, as well as the susceptibility of students based on sensory components. Multimedia technologies are a promising direction in the learning process.
DIRECTIONS FOR IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION IN PHYSICS CLASS
Authors:   Senior Teacher At Jizzakh Branch Uznu, Uzbekistan, Yusufjon Azimov
Published: June 2023

The article examines the requirements for improving the quality of learning in physics classes and various aspects of the process of creative teaching.
THE ROLE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS AND THE MEDIA IN THE ACTIVITY OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATIVE BODIES
Authors:   Master Of Uzbekistan University Of Journalism And Mass Communications, Uzbekistan, Baxshilloyevna Aslonova Firuza
Published: June 2023

The article talks about the information level of the society, democratic values, information services, ensuring the independence of the mass media and the increase in the demand for public relations in public administration.
FEATURES OF MODERNIZATION OF THE POLITICAL SYSTEM OF THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA
Authors:   University Of World Economy And Diplomacy, Faculty Of International Relations 1st Year Master's Student, Uzbekistan, Alisherovich Pulatov Khasan
Published: June 2023

The article examines the phenomenon of modernization of the political system of the PRC. The main roots of the formation and development of the political system of the PRC are explored. The author peruses the prototype of political modernization in the PRC. Among the specific features of Chinese modernization, one can separately distinguish national traditions and norms, cultural and ideological factors. The main vectors and mechanisms of transformation of the political system in the PRC are analyzed.
COOPERATIVE LEARNING ACTIVITIES IN HISTORY CLASSES
Authors:   Teacher Of School 28, Kumkurgan District, Surkhandarya Region, Uzbekistan, Gayratovna Hamraeva Iroda
Published: June 2023

The article mentions the problems of using cooperative education in accordance with the modernization processes of history teaching in general education schools. Collaborative education in the teaching of history is interpreted as an important means of developing the level of cognitive activity of students, methodological recommendations are presented within the topic.
REGULATION OF MIGRATION RELATIONS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES
Authors:   Doctor In Law, Professor, Department Of Ecological Law Tashkent State University Of Law, Uzbekistan, Narzullaev Olim Kh.
Published: June 2023

The article describes the emergence of international migration, its causes, and the participation of migrants in this process. Issues and legal aspects of regulation of migration flows around the world (European migration system, USA) are described. The necessity and directions of regulation of the process of labor migration in the process of globalization at the world level were highlighted. Also, issues of labor migration were analyzed and opinions were expressed regarding its improvement.
THE STRUCTURE AND CONTENT OF TEXTS OF DIFFERENT GENRES
Authors:   Senior Teacher, Translation Faculty, UZSWLU, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Maxsutbayevich Kalimbetov Sharapat , Kamol kizi Nematova Farida ,   Trainee-teacher, Translation Faculty, UZSWLU, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Published: June 2023

The article discusses the problem of studying of the structure and content of texts of different genres. Text is the main structure of language construction at the highest level. Metaphorical expressions of the English language were mainly selected from well-known electronic sources. The main one is, of course, the British National Corps. (British National Corpus). This corpus contains samples of texts of various genres, but poetry speech samples are very rare. Literature Online (LO) was chosen as the second source. This electronic resource contains more than 2000 poems by 797 authors. A total of 554 metaphorical expressions on the subject of Sadness were selected from the "British National Corpus", while 518 expressions were found in Literature Online.
USE OF MODERN PEDAGOGICAL TECHNOLOGIES IN TEACHING ENGLISH
Authors:   Associate Professor, The Department Of Practical English And Literature, Faculty Of Foreign Philology National University Of Uzbekistan, Bolibekova Mavjuda M.
Published: June 2023

This article discusses the use of modern pedagogical technologies in teaching English. These technologies provide opportunities for individualized learning, enhance engagement, and improve accessibility to education. However, teachers must be aware of the potential drawbacks of using these technologies, such as technological challenges, boredom, repetition, and inaccuracies. As such, teachers must ensure that they use modern pedagogical technologies effectively to meet the needs of their students.
ANALYSIS OF INVESTMENTS INTO THE ACTIVITY OF SMALL BUSINESS SUBJECTS IN THE REPUBLIC OF KARAKALPAKSTAN
Authors:   Independent Researcher (Phd) Of Institute For Staff Advanced Training And Statistical Research Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Abdiraxmanovich Saparov Kuatbay
Published: June 2023

The article examines the activities of small businesses on the basis of regional policy, in accordance with which describes ways to attract investment in small businesses in the Republic of Karakalpakstan and measures for their effective use. The article also carried out a statistical analysis of the distribution of investments in small businesses and private entrepreneurship by region. In particular, a mechanism has been developed to attract domestic and foreign investments to the Republic of Karakalpakstan, as well as to familiarize investors with information about the potential and opportunities of the Republic of Karakalpakstan and create greater interest and inclination for them.
METHODS OF EFFECTIVE HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Authors:   Department Of ", Mukhtorov Botir ,   Social And Economic Sciences",   , Jizzakh Branch Of The National University Of Uzbekistan, Ermatov Murodjon ,   Department Of "Social And Economic Sciences", 1st Year Graduate Student, Jizzakh Branch Of Uzmu, Faculty Of Psychology, Uzbekistan
Published: June 2023

Labor resources and their effective management are important factors in creating a perfect and competitive national economic system in the Republic of Uzbekistan. Therefore, the article covers issues such as the definition of the concept of "Management of human resources" and the study of the level of application of methods of effective management of human resources in Uzbekistan.
PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF CLUSTER MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES IN INCREASING COMPETITIVENESS
Authors:   Teacher ", Bakhromovna Abdikarimova Zilola ,   Mamun University",   Non-Governmental Educational Institution, Uzbekistan
Published: June 2023

This article provides information on methods of laboratory condition of daphnia species from lower crustaceans and their survival. It is also given valuable information on the shortcomings in the field of fisheries, the problems of feeding fish in the cultivation of quality fish products and their solutions.
Lucha anticorrupción y derechos humanos: Una sola agenda reforzada por convenciones especializadas
Authors: De León Quintero Joel A.
Published: June 2023

La corrupción es un flagelo social de vieja data, que evoluciona constantemente, adquiriendo nuevas modalidades que impactan negativamente los sectores público y privado.  El efecto destructivo de la corrupción trastoca la capacidad que los Estados tienen para desarrollar, respetar, proteger y cumplir los derechos humanos.  Históricamente han surgido iniciativas anticorrupción, entre ellas a nivel de país como ocurrió con la ley FCPA (Estados Unidos, 1977), a nivel regional con la Convención Interamericana Contra La Corrupción (CICC- Caracas, 1996) y a nivel internacional con la  Convención Anti cohecho de la OCDE (1997), la Convención de las Naciones Unidas contra la delincuencia organizada transnacional y sus Protocolos complementarios (2000) y la Convención de Naciones Unidas Contra la Corrupción (CNUC, 2003).  Finalmente, a través de este artículo reconocemos que el éxito de la lucha anticorrupción se fundamenta en el cumplimiento de objetivos comunes, los cuales a vez redundan positivamente en la modernización de la administración pública, promoviendo así atención oportuna y respeto por los derechos humanos de la población, especialmente de aquellas personas y grupos en situación de vulnerabilidad y marginación.
An ESP Approach to Teaching Nursing Students the Quality of Clinical Nursing Notes Writing
Authors: Ahmed Rawda Bashir Abdalla , Al-Enezi Eman Huwaidi
Published: June 2023

For nursing students in the education system in Saudi Arabia, English-language writing skills, whether for general or specific purposes, have long been ignored, which may jeopardize their success in medical-oriented courses and their future careers. This study designed clinical nursing note-writing course (CNNWC) for university nursing students and explored the teaching outcomes of its implementation. The three main objectives were to (a) examine the effectiveness of the CNNWC in enhancing learners’ competencies; (b) survey learners’ satisfaction with the CNNWC, and (c) investigate learners’ perceptions of the CNNWC. In this action research, 47 students practiced four writing tasks while guided with four teaching tools, namely, multiple revisions, peer review activities, and direct and indirect teacher feedback, for a semester. External examiners included a language teacher and a nursing professional, and the data-collection instruments used included a writing competence scale and a course satisfaction questionnaire. The results showed that the learners’ writing competence significantly improved after the CNNWC. They also demonstrated a fair level of satisfaction toward the CNNWC. The learners indicated a preference for feedback from the teacher rather than from peers, and they perceived vocabulary capability to be crucial. ESP/ENP teachers are advised to consider the implementation of the CNNWC when designing syllabi.
Environmental Disclosure and Price-earnings Ratio of Manufacturing Companies Listed in Nigeria
Authors: Ajayi Ademola , Adegbie Festus Folajimi , Dada Samuel Olajide
Published: June 2023

A good price-earnings ratio is a result of excellent corporate performance; nevertheless, reaching a desirable price-earnings ratio in typical Nigerian manufacturing enterprises is complex and difficult. Meeting price-earnings ratio expectation of shareholder as companies were faced with complexities and unethical non-compliances issues. Studies have suggested that effective environmental disclosure has the capacity to enhance the price-earnings ratios in manufacturing companies. This study was to examine the effect of environmental disclosure on the price-earnings ratio of listed manufacturing companies listed in Nigeria. The study employed an ex-post facto research design. The population of the study was the 66 listed manufacturing companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group as of 31st December 2021. Using purposive sampling technique 29 manufacturing companies were selected. Validated data, covering a period of 16 years (2006 -2021) were extracted from published financial statements of the selected manufacturing companies. The reliability of the data was premised on the statutory audit of the financial statements. Descriptive and inferential (multiple regression) statistics were used to analyze the data at a 5% significant level. The findings revealed that environmental disclosure affected the price-earnings ratio of manufacturing companies in Nigeria (Adj.R2 = 0.218, F (5, 458) = 22.87, p < 0.05) . The study recommended that the management of companies should embrace sustainable environmental disclosure to ensure an effective price-earnings ratio for manufacturing companies in Nigeria
The Influence of Leverage, Firm Size and Financial Distress on Accounting Conservatism
Authors: DARMAYANTI Novi , AFRICA Laely Aghe , SARI A.A Pt. Agung Mirah Purnama , SUHARDIYAH Martha
Published: June 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of leverage, firm size, and financial distress on accounting conservatism partially or simultaneously. This study uses an observation period of 2016-2020 with purposive sampling method obtained a sample of 8 companies. The data analysis method used in this research is multiple linear regression test. The variables used are leverage, firm size, and financial distress as independent variables. While the variable of accounting conservatism as the dependent variable. The results of this study resulted in the finding that partially leverage is significant on accounting conservatism. Firm size has no significant effect on conservatism and financial distress has a significant effect on accounting conservatism. Simultaneously, leverage, firm size, and financial distress have a significant effect on accounting conservatism.
Study of Traditional Village Arrangement in Rote Ndao District
Authors: MESSAKH Hendrikhsan A.B. , DJAHA Ajis Salim Adang , TODA Hendrik
Published: June 2023

The regulation regarding the designation of customary villages is a form of formal juridical recognition by the government of the existence and rights of indigenous peoples who are spread throughout Indonesia, especially in Rote Ndao District. This research is a qualitative descriptive study with primary and secondary data sources collected through qualitative observation, qualitative interviews, qualitative documents search and qualitative audio and visual materials. ) then the data that has been collected is analyzed using the data analysis steps proposed by Miles, Huberman and Saldana (2014: 14) The results of the study found that the structuring of villages into traditional villages in Rote Ndao Regency does not fulfill several elements, namely; (a) customary territories and customary assets no longer function according to community development, (b) customary government institutions, solidarity of indigenous peoples and instruments of customary law norms that still exist and do not conflict with applicable laws and regulations, (c) solidarity indigenous peoples and instruments of customary law norms that still exist and do not threaten the sovereignty and integrity of the state and (d) customary territories, solidarity of indigenous peoples, customary government institutions, customary assets and instruments of customary law norms have partially disappeared and have not been recognized by the state while the inhibiting factors in village management, especially changing the status of a village to a traditional village in Rote Ndao Regency, namely; (a) bad policies and (b) the will of regional heads.
The Governance Of Tourism Village In Sipirok Subdistrict South Tapanuli Regency
Authors: LUBIS Anwar Fuad Alamsyah
Published: June 2023

A tourist village is an alternative tourism development whose management relies on the values of socio-cultural wisdom, economy, building forms, history, natural wealth and village human resources. Discussions and practices of tourism villages are trending both globally, nationally and regionally. South Tapanuli Regency is one of the areas that has implemented a tourism village policy. There are 18 tourist villages in South Tapanuli Regency and 6 of them are in Sipirok District. The purpose of this study was to analyze and compare the governance of 6 tourist villages in Sipirok District, South Tapanuli Regency. This study uses a qualitative descriptive method and data collection techniques are observation, interviews, and documentation. The results of the study show that the coordination between the tourism office, village government, and Pokdarwis is not intense, resulting in different perceptions in the management of tourist villages. Several villages cooperate and coordinate with institutions outside the government so that they are assisted in managing tourism. Community participation can be seen when the village has found a tourist target that is in accordance with the existing tourism potential in the village.
Les administrations centrales face aux autres acteurs de la politique de l’État dans le champ social : concurrence ou complémentarité ?
Authors: Piveteau Denis
Published: June 2023

Les administrations centrales de l’État en charge des politiques sociales n’ont pas, comme leurs homologues de la santé, connu la vague de création d’établissements publics, ayant traduit à la fin du xx e  siècle ce qui a été souvent déploré comme un « démembrement » de l’action publique. En revanche, on a pu constater l’émergence de diverses structures, délégations ou missions, en général éphémères mais chargées d’importantes priorités politiques, dont le positionnement a pu paraître insolite car, faute de disposer d’une personnalité morale propre, elles agissent au nom de l’État mais en échappant très largement à l’autorité des administrations centrales. Comment expliquer cette présence, dont les mérites d’agilité et de dynamisme se paient de possibles empiètements ? En partie par les difficultés récurrentes du pilotage interministériel, dans un domaine où il est structurellement nécessaire. Mais en partie aussi par l’indispensable articulation à trouver avec d’autres acteurs extérieurs à l’État. Plutôt que leur disparition, c’est donc leur installation structurée qu’il faudrait savoir penser.
L’action subsidiaire et de proximité des CCAS
Authors: Hoareau Antoine
Published: June 2023

Liberté d’action et proximité avec l’usager. Ces deux dynamiques, au cœur de la décentralisation, concernent au premier chef les communes. En matière de solidarité, leurs ccas se sont ainsi vu confier un rôle de prévention et de développement social leur laissant a priori une grande marge de manœuvre dans la réponse apportée aux problématiques sociales des habitants de leur commune. L’action subsidiaire de ces derniers est complémentaire de celle de bon nombre d’autres administrations partenaires. Elle est aussi souvent essentielle pour en pallier les limites. Dans cet article, nous nous proposons d’étudier jusqu’à quel point les ccas contribuent à lutter contre l’enchevêtrement des administrations sociales, préjudiciable à l’efficience de l’action publique, tout comme ils en font aussi parfois eux-mêmes les frais, et avec eux les personnes qu’ils accompagnent.
La métropole des solidarités : le sens de l’histoire ?
Authors: Klein Mathieu
Published: June 2023

Les métropoles sont une construction juridique récente dans l’histoire de notre pays. De gestionnaires d’infrastructures et de réseaux (eau, assainissement, déchets, voirie), les intercommunalités ont assumé au fil des réformes des responsabilités de plus en plus marquées en matière de services de proximité et de politiques de solidarité. La politique de la ville, le déploiement de tarifications sociales, l’émergence de centres intercommunaux d’action sociale ou, plus récemment, le déploiement à l’échelle intercommunale des conventions territoriales globales traduisent un tel mouvement vers la « métropole sociale ». Contre le modèle dépassé d’une métropole exclusivement tournée vers l’attractivité et le rayonnement international au risque de mettre en avant les concurrences entre territoires, les modèles actuels de développement des métropoles voient la montée en puissance de leur rôle en matière d’insertion et d’emploi, d’inclusion et plus globalement de cohésion sociale et territoriale, et ceci parfois au-delà de leur seul périmètre administratif puisque le législateur leur assigne une responsabilité spécifique dans le développement du territoire régional. Cet avènement de la métropole comme acteur concret de la solidarité doit être pleinement reconnu et revendiqué. Cette nouvelle place doit permettre non pas de faire monter les oppositions, en particulier avec les communes et les départements, dont le rôle social est historiquement reconnu, mais plutôt de faciliter les articulations, les coordinations, et parfois les délégations de responsabilités pour optimiser l’action publique en matière de solidarité.
Spatial relevancy of digital finance in the urban agglomeration of Pearl River Delta and the influence factors
Authors: Chen Yi , Nie Benhuan , Huang Zhehao , Zhang Changhong
Published: June 2023

At present, the rapid development of digital finance is closely related to the economic development of urban agglomerations. An urban agglomeration provides conditions for digital finance to form a spatial relevancy network. Exploring the development of digital finance in the urban agglomeration of the Pearl River Delta (PRD), which is the bellwether of China's economy, can provide important practical experience for the economic construction of coastal areas and even the whole country. In this study, using the urban digital finance index issued by the Guangzhou Institute of International Finance, we measured the intensity and direction of the spatial relevancy of digital finance in the PRD urban agglomeration by applying the gravity model, modified in the calculation of distance between cities. Then, we examined the influencing factors of the spatial network of digital finance through the quadratic assignment procedure (QAP) approach. The achieved results are as follows. First, although the overall density is low, the network is tightly connected and stable. Second, in terms of individual characteristics of the network, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Foshan still play the leading roles in the spatial network of digital finance. Third, the digital finance network does not have bidirectional spillover block. The links between segments are relatively loose. Fourth, economic level, degree of opening up, Internet level and geographical location are important factors in driving the formation of spatial relevancy of digital finance in the PRD urban agglomeration.
Positive solutions for a critical quasilinear Schrödinger equation
Authors: Xue Liang , Xu Jiafa , O'Regan Donal
Published: June 2023

In our current work we investigate the following critical quasilinear Schrödinger equation

   \begin{document}$ -\Delta \Theta+\mathcal V(x)\Theta-\Delta (\Theta^2)\Theta = |\Theta|^{22^*-2}\Theta+\lambda \mathcal K(x)g(\Theta), \ x \ \in \mathbb R^N, $\end{document}

where $ N\geq 3 $, $ \lambda > 0 $, $ \mathcal V, \ \mathcal K\in C(\mathbb R^N, \mathbb R^+) $ and $ g\in C(\mathbb R, \mathbb R) $ has a quasicritical growth condition. We use the dual approach and the mountain pass theorem to show that the considered problem has a positive solution when $ \lambda $ is a large parameter.
Sémiotique du groupe chez Flaubert
Authors: Gendrel Bernard
Published: June 2023

Partant du constat de l’omniprésence des moments de sociabilité dans l’œuvre de Flaubert, même pour les personnages les plus solitaires, cet article s’interroge sur la place du groupe dans le système sémiotique flaubertien. Bien que certaines configurations (cérémonies religieuses, repas, soirées de bal ou de théâtre, réunions politiques…) soient déjà fortement usées par la tradition littéraire, les jeux de modifications, d’enrichissements ou de déplacements opérés aux différents niveaux du parcours génératif permettent très souvent, selon la formule de Greimas, de « produire avec presque rien de l’inattendu ».
First occurrence of the genus Sphenothallus Hall, 1847 (Cnidaria) in the Carboniferous of the Dnipro-Donets Depression, Ukraine
Authors: Dernov Vitaly
Published: June 2023

The first occurrence of the problematic cnidarians Sphenothallus Hall (S. sp. 1 and S. sp. 2) is described from upper Viséan and ?Bashkirian (Carboniferous) black shales of the Dnipro-Donets Depression in NE Ukraine. Carboniferous Sphenothallus spp. from the Dnipro-Donets Depression apparently led an epifaunal gregarious lifestyle, preferring paleobasin areas with slow sedimentation rates, low current energy, and dysaerobic environments, as already suggested by literature data. The discovery of representatives of the genus Sphenothallus in Carboniferous strata of Ukraine significantly extends our knowledge about the geographic distribution of these animals. Further, it confirms their preference for environments with slow sedimentation. Keywords: cnidarians, Sphenothallus, Carboniferous, Dnipro-Donets Depression, Ukraine.
New postcranial remains of ground sloths (Xenarthra, Folivora, Mylodontidae) from Southern Brazil
Authors: Cirino Mariana , Pitana Vanessa Gregis , Negri Francisco Ricardo , Cartelle Cástor , Ferigolo Jorge , Ribeiro Ana Maria
Published: June 2023

Diagnoses of Mylodontidae species are generally based on skull, mandibular, and tooth characteristics, and rarely on postcranial morphology, due to the lack of postcranial material associated with the cranial material. The studies of postcranial anatomy have generally a biomechanical focus and reflect a set of functions of skeletal structures, but their interpretation in phylogenetic analysis is still limited. In Pleistocene deposits of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, an important set of postcranial specimens was collected, belonging to Mylodontidae. They were morphologically and morphometrically analyzed, allowing us to observe some diagnostic characters such as the humeral entepicondylar foramen and crests, shape of the radial shaft, angle of distal articulation of the tibia, as well as the angle of proximal articulation of the astragalus. The material was also compared with specimens from other South American localities. Most of the remains were assigned to Glossotherium robustum and Lestodon armatus. In addition, a new Scelidotheriinae was recorded for Rio Grande do Sul State. The study indicated significant differences in the postcranial morphology, which allowed the recognition of some specific diagnostic characters. Keywords: Mylodontinae, Scelidotheriinae, hindlimb, forelimb, Pleistocene, Rio Grande do Sul.
Utility of 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in Cardiac Infections
Authors: Jaleel Jasim , Kaushik Prateek , Patel Chetan , Chandra Khangembam Bangkim , Yadav Satyavir , Siddharthan Deepti
Published: June 2023

Diagnosis of cardiac infections, which includes infective endocarditis (IE) and cardiac device infections, despite having a high death rate, is still challenging. Frequently used modalities such as echocardiography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging cannot confirm the presence of an active infection or extracardiac findings. Taking these things to consideration, newer guidelines have suggested the inclusion of 18F fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/CT (18F FDG PET/CT) in the workup of patients with suspected prosthetic valve IE. In this pictorial essay, we are demonstrating the utility of 18F-FDG PET/CT in varied cases of IE, cardiac implantable electronic devices, and coronary stent infection and how they helped in solving diagnostic dilemmas.
Role of Sentinel Lymph Node Drainage Mapping for Localization of Contralateral Lymph Node Metastasis in Locally Advanced Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma – A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Singh Parneet , Kaul Pallvi , Singhal Tejasvini , Kumar Amit , Garg Pankaj Kumar , Narayan Manishi L.
Published: June 2023

Aim/Background:

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has become the standard of care for nodal staging in early-stage oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) as an alternative to elective neck dissection. However, the role of sentinel lymph node (SLN) and lymphatic drainage mapping with image-guided surgery has not been studied in locally advanced OSCC. Therefore, this study was undertaken to evaluate the role of lymphatic drainage mapping in the identification of contralateral cervical lymph node metastasis in locally advanced OSCC (Stage III-IVb).

Materials and Methods:

We have prospectively analyzed treatment-naïve patients of locally advanced, lateralized OSCC (n = 20). All patients underwent SLN imaging using peritumoral injection 0.5–1.0 mCi of 99 mTc-Sulfur colloid (Filtered) and intraoperative identification of contralateral neck nodes using a handheld gamma probe (Crystal Photonics).

Results:

A total of 20 patients (18 males and 2 females) with a median age of 52.5 (33–70 years) were included. Ipsilateral SLN was localized in 18 (90%) patients. Bilateral cervical nodes were visualized only in 7 (35%) patients on lymphoscintigraphy (LSG). Out of the seven patients, 5 patients underwent bilateral neck dissection and 2 patients had unilateral neck dissection with LSG-guided exploration of contralateral cervical node and intraoperative frozen section examination. Six out of these seven patients had one or other risk factor for contralateral metastasis (patients had either primary in the tongue, involvement of floor of mouth, or tumor thickness >3.75 mm). On postoperative HPE, only 1/20 (5%) patient showed metastasis in the contralateral cervical lymph node.

Conclusion:

Correct identification of metastatic disease in contralateral neck directly influences clinical management, as it can reduce contralateral neck failure rate and limit the morbidity associated with unnecessary contralateral neck dissection, and it is also crucial in radiotherapy planning in locally advanced OSCC. In the current study, lymphatic drainage mapping showed a metastatic rate of 5% in the contralateral neck nodes in locally advanced, lateralized OSCC. However, the role of SLNB and lymphatic drainage mapping in this subgroup of OSCC needs to be studied in larger population to validate these findings.
Role of (F-18) Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in the Prediction of Response to Neoadjuvant Therapy in Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Robles Barba Javier J. , Llobera Aida Sabaté , Cenzano Cristina Gámez , Martin Marcuartu Juan J. , Martínez Natalia Romero , Paules Villar Maria J. , Larrañaga Carla Bettonica , Inglada Anna Boladeras , Campos Mariona Calvo , Pous Albert Font , Guzmán Maica Galán , Romera Montserrat Cortés
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of this study is to assess the correlation between metabolic response with fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) and pathological response in patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and to study FDG-PET parameters for the prediction of pathological response and outcome.

Methods:

Twenty-five patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer underwent two FDG-PET/CT scans for initial staging and after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. FDG uptake in the primary tumor was calculated in both scans (SUVmax, SULpeak, and TLG). Metabolic response was assessed according to the reduction of PET parameters: complete response (mCR = 100%), partial response (mPR ≥50%), and no response (mNR ≤50%). Pathological response was also classified as complete (pCR), partial (pPR), or no response (pNR). Patients were followed up (range, 8–99 months) determining free-disease interval (FDI) and overall survival (OS).

Results:

Two patients were excluded due to exitus for nonesophageal-related causes. The metabolic response was observed in 18/23 remaining patients (3mCR, 15 mPR), of which 12/18 patients showed a pathological response (3 pCR, 9 pPR). A major discrepancy was observed in 2 mNR patients who achieved pPR. FDI and OS were longer in patients with metabolic response than nonresponders, but no statistical difference was found. No significant correlation was found between PET parameters and pathological response, FDI, and OS.

Conclusions:

FDG-PET/CT is a useful technique to assess response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in esophageal cancer. Although in this preliminary study, no correlation between metabolic and pathologic response was found and no statistical differences between responders and nonresponders were observed, a tendency of longer FDI and OS was apparently found in responders patients.
A Review on the Usage of Bone Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography/Computed Tomography in Detecting Skeletal Metastases in the Post-COVID-19 Era
Authors: Suppiah Subapriya , Mohd Rohani Mohd Fazrin , Zanial Ahmad Zaid , Ahmad Shahrir Ahmad Danial , Khairuman Khairul Aliff , Vinjamuri Sobhan
Published: June 2023

Planar whole-body bone scanning (WBS) is widely used to evaluate skeletal lesions seen in cancer and noncancer cases. Frequently, degenerative, or other benign bony changes may give rise to indeterminate lesions that mimic bone metastases. In the post-COVID-19 era, there is an evolutionary phase that puts importance on global development and adaptability, which encompasses to include nuclear medicine practices worldwide. Single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) can be used to improve the characterization of these lesions and help to resolve the diagnostic conundrum while reducing the need for patients to undergo multiple different examinations at various imaging departments. The fusion of SPECT and CT allows morphological characterization of functional abnormality detected by focal tracer uptake on planar scintigraphy, which provides a one-stop center imaging in nuclear medicine departments. The objective of this study was to review the diagnostic accuracy of SPECT/CT in diagnosing bone metastases in a variety of oncology and nononcology cases and to determine the feasibility of performing bone SPECT/CT in all suspected cancer cases, including cases of bone infection instead of planar imaging alone. The utilization of hybrid SPECT/CT in indeterminate bone lesions detected on planar WBS can significantly increase the diagnostic confidence and accuracy of image interpretation. Recognition of patterns of disease identified using hybrid imaging can improve the management of patients with potentially lower costs in the long term. Currently, hybrid SPECT/CT machines are becoming a norm in nuclear medicine departments, thus potentially making single planar application machines obsolete in the near future. We hypothesize that in the interest of providing a meaningful interpretation of isotope bone scans, the default protocol should involve the option of acquiring SPECT/CT images rather than relying on whole-body scans only. Departments choosing to upgrade existing equipment or those choosing to invest in only one gamma camera should proactively opt for hybrid SPECT/CT systems.
Disseminated Nocardia farcinica Infection and Treatment Response on F-18 Fludeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography
Authors: Oksuzoglu Kevser , Kesim Selin , Turoglu Halil Turgut , Tigen Elif Tukenmez , Ulger Nurver , Erdil Tanju Yusuf
Published: June 2023

We report a rare case of nocardiosis with increased F-18 Fludeoxyglucose (F-18 FDG) uptake in widespread abscess foci of Nocardia
farcinica infection in an immunocompromised patient on positron emission tomography computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging. A relatively infrequent cause of nocardiosis, N. farcinica is an opportunistic infection that may present with clinically aggressive disseminated disease. Whole-body F-18 FDG-PET/CT allows identifying the extent of disease, as well as monitoring response to therapy in patients with nocardiosis especially the disseminated form.
Kugel’s Artery as a Rare Intracoronary Collateralization Does Not Effectively Guarantee the Presence of Viable Hibernating Myocardium
Authors: Ahmadi Reyhane , Yazdi Amirhossein , Qutbi Mohsen
Published: June 2023

In this note, it was aimed to describe a 66-year-old patient for ischemia evaluation following the episodes of chest discomfort using dipyridamole stress-rest myocardial perfusion single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Invasive coronary angiography demonstrated a total occlusion of the right coronary artery (RCA) and prominent RCA intracoronary collateral (Kugel’s artery) associated with nonviable, infarcted myocardium in the inferior wall of left ventricular LV on myocardial perfusion SPECT. Thus, recanalization of RCA was not performed in our patient. It is concluded that performing complementary imaging modalities for assessing myocardial perfusion like SPECT for the prediction of viability to sole reliance on angiographic data in decision making for revascularization is encouraged.
Recurrent Renal Cell Carcinoma Presenting as Port-Site Metastases, Detected on 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography
Authors: Emerson Ralph , Singh Parneet , Parida Girish Kumar , Kumar Pramit , Agrawal Kanhaiyalal
Published: June 2023

The incidence of port-site metastases (PSMs) varies with the tumor type with adenocarcinoma having a high incidence. However, it is rarely seen in urological malignancies and more so in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We hereby describe one such case of PSM after laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for RCC, which was detected on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography.
Askin’s Tumor a Rare Clinical Entity of Thoracopulmonary Region Cresenting as a Case of Paraparesis
Authors: Das Kalpa Jyoti , Kumar Akash , Prakash Sneha , Singhal Abhinav
Published: June 2023

Askin’s tumors are rare malignant neoplasms located in the thoracopulmonary region and mainly occur in children and adolescents. In this report, we describe a case of histologically proven Askin’s tumor in a 24-year-old male. The patient was admitted with a history of 3-month lower back pain and with a rare presentation of paraparesis.
Artifactual Hot Spots on Technetium-99m Macroaggregated Albumin Perfusion Lung Scan
Authors: Sebbar Chaimae , Hiroual Soufiane , Kouassi Nathalie , Bsiss Mohamed Aziz , Matrane Aboubaker
Published: June 2023

A 40-year-old male patient with pulmonary tuberculosis was subjected to a perfusion lung scan to rule out pulmonary embolism. Administration of technetium-99m macroaggregated albumin through preexisting venous access resulted in multiple round hot spots in both pulmonary fields. This finding was interpreted as an artifact caused by injection through preexisting venous access.
Angiogenesis Imaging of Adrenocortical Carcinoma with Ga-68-NODAGA-RGD Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Verma Priyanka , Chandak Ashok , Shetye Suyog Sharad , Nazar Aamir K. , Bagul Swati Dinesh , Malhotra Gaurav
Published: June 2023

A 53-year-old female, with a known case of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC), underwent F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for initial staging, which revealed FDG avid large left suprarenal mass contiguous with hypermetabolic tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava (IVC) through the left renal vein. Thereafter, she underwent angiogenesis imaging using Ga-68-NODAGA-RGD PET/CT, which showed similar avid tracer uptake in both primary and IVC thrombus. Demonstration of RGD avidity in ACC in this case opens a new horizon for targeted radionuclide therapy (e.g., Lu-177 RGD) in selected patients, who may have limited therapeutic options.
99m-Tc TRODAT Single-Photon Emission Computerized Tomography Scan Image Compression using Singular Value Decomposition
Authors: Chaudhary Jagrati , Pandey Anil Kumar , Hemrom Angel , Sharma Param Dev , Patel Chetan , Kumar Rakesh
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

The objective of the study was to compress 99m-Tc TRODAT single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) scan image using Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) into an acceptable compressed image and then calculate the compression factor.

Materials and Methods:

The SVD of every image from the image dataset of 2256 images (of forty-eight 99m-Tc TRODAT SPECT studies [48 studies X 47 trans-axial images = 2256 trans-axial images]) was computed and after truncating singular values smaller than a threshold, the compressed image was reconstructed. The SVD computation time and percentage compression achieved were calculated for each image. Two nuclear medicine physicians visually compared compressed image with its original image, and labeled it as either acceptable or unacceptable. Compressed image having loss of clinical details or presence of compression artifact was labeled unacceptable. The quality of compressed image was also assessed objectively using the following image quality metrics: Error, structural similarity (SSIM), brightness, global contrast factor (GCF), contrast per pixel (CPP), and blur. We also compared the TRODAT uptake in basal ganglia estimated from the compressed image and original image.

Results:

Nuclear Medicine Physician labeled each image acceptable, as they found compressed image identical to its original image. The values of brightness, GCF, CPP, and blur metrics show that compressed images are less noisy, brighter, and sharper than its original image. The median values of error (0.0006) and SSIM (0.93) indicate that the compressed images were approximately identical to its original image. In 39 out of 48 studies, the percentage difference in TRODAT uptake (in basal ganglia from compressed and original image) was negligible (approximately equal to zero). In remaining 9 studies, the maximum percentage difference was 13%. The SVD computation time and percentage compression achieved for a TRODAT study were 0.17398 s and up to 54.61%, respectively.

Conclusions:

The compression factor up to 54.61% was achieved during 99m-Tc TRODAT SPECT scan image compression using SVD, for an acceptable compressed image.
The Impact of a Smartphone Application and Internet Resource Usage on Dental Education
Authors: Aljohani Khalid , Agou Shoroog , Alnahdi Fatimah , Bakhuraybah Abdullah , Abed Hassan
Published: June 2023

Background:

Smartphones are being used for several educational purposes. The Internet serves a vital role in the dissemination of information.

Objectives:

This observational cross-sectional study aimed to identify the most common smartphone applications/health Internet sites visited by dental care providers in the KSA and to assess factors that impact on the choices of the Internet site/applications by dental care providers.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional web-based survey was used. Data on demographics and smartphone usage were collected. Besides, participants were able to add their suggestions at the end of the study using a free open box. The statistical significance was at P > 0.05.

Results:

A total of 151 valid responses were collected. Of these, the majority were female (57.6%). All the participants had a smartphone, and 36.4% spent 6 to <8 h surfing. Google Scholar (81.5%) was the most used source for finding information, followed by PubMed (69.5%) and Wikipedia (49%). Almost 95.4% of participants used their smartphones to read scientific papers. Nearly 71.5% of respondents said that they used their smartphones for social networking.

Conclusions:

Most dental care providers regularly use smartphone applications/health Internet sites for education and research. In this study, we found many Internet sites and applications commonly used by the interns, which can be reviewed, updated, and utilized by the curriculum committee and included in the teaching process as this will save time and effort in training.
Determinants of Intravitreal Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Treatment Outcomes in Diabetic Patients Having Macular Edema
Authors: Asiri Ashwaq Yahya
Published: June 2023

Background:

With a growing number of patients diagnosed with microvascular complications of diabetes, cases of diabetic retinopathy (DR) are on the rise. This study helps to determine the treatment outcomes and factors associated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment for macular edema associated with diabetes in a Regional Hospital in Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective study based on the data collected from the patient records of cases of diabetic macular edema presenting from May 2016 to December 2021 and treated with anti-VEGF agents. Information on demographics, disease, and treatment was extracted on a data driven form for 1293 patients. Student's paired t-tests and ordered logistic regression analysis were carried out to study the effect of various factors on treatment outcomes. All values were considered statistically significant at a value of P ≤ 0.05.

Results:

We found improvement in visual acuity (VA) and macular thickness following the treatment with anti-VEGF. VA improved from 0.24 ± 0.27 m to 0.28 ± 0.27 t (1716) = −2.958, P < 0.005, t (1716) = 27.30; and macular thickness decreased from 267.32 ± 200.17 to 194.40 ± 151.38 (P < 0.001). Younger patients, male gender, and patients having multimorbidity (presence of hypertension [HTN] or chronic kidney disease long with diabetes) significantly improved VA (P < 0.001). Intravitreal ranibizumab has significantly more effect on improvement in VA (P < 0.001), while all intravitreal anti-VEGF agents have a significant effect on reducing macular thickness (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Anti-VEGF agents provide successful treatment outcomes in patients having DR; however, treatment outcomes differ by gender, age, and co-existing HTN and kidney disease. Treatment with ranibizumab significantly increases VA.