bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyphonic sound event localization and detection based on Multiple Attention Fusion ResNet
Authors: Zhang Shouming , Zhang Yaling , Liao Yixiao , Pang Kunkun , Wan Zhiyong , Zhou Songbin
Published: January 2024

Sound event localization and detection have been applied in various fields. Due to the polyphony and noise interference, it becomes challenging to accurately predict the sound event and their occurrence locations. Aiming at this problem, we propose a Multiple Attention Fusion ResNet, which uses ResNet34 as the base network. Given the situation that the sound duration is not fixed, and there are multiple polyphonic and noise, we introduce the Gated Channel Transform to enhance the residual basic block. This enables the model to capture contextual information, evaluate channel weights, and reduce the interference caused by polyphony and noise. Furthermore, Split Attention is introduced to the model for capturing cross-channel information, which enhances the ability to distinguish the polyphony. Finally, Coordinate Attention is introduced to the model so that the model can focus on both the channel information and spatial location information of sound events. Experiments were conducted on two different datasets, TAU-NIGENS Spatial Sound Events 2020, and TAU-NIGENS Spatial Sound Events 2021. The results demonstrate that the proposed model significantly outperforms state-of-the-art methods under multiple polyphonic and noise-directional interference environments and it achieves competitive performance under a single polyphonic environment.
Changes in Adolescent Health Behavior and the Exacerbation of Economic Hardship During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Study From the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey
Authors: Kim Chaeeun , Lee Haeun , Jung-Choi Kyunghee , Park Hyesook
Published: January 2024

Objectives: This study investigated the association between exacerbated economic hardship during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and changes in the health behaviors of Korean adolescents.Methods: We analyzed data from the 2021 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey and included 44 908 students (22 823 boys and 22 085 girls) as study subjects. The dependent variables included changes in health behaviors (breakfast habits, physical activity, and alcohol use) that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aggravation of economic hardship by COVID-19 and the subjective economic status of the family were used as exposure variables. Multiple logistic regression analysis was utilized to calculate the prevalence odds ratios (PORs).Results: Severe exacerbation of a family’s economic hardship due to COVID-19 was negatively associated with the health behaviors of adolescents, including increased breakfast skipping (POR, 1.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.55 to 2.21 for boys and POR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.27 to 1.92 for girls) and decreased physical activity (POR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.19 to 1.57 for boys and POR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.19 to 1.60 for girls). These negative changes in health behaviors were further amplified when combined with a low subjective family economic status.Conclusions: The experience of worsening household hardship can lead to negative changes in health behavior among adolescents. It is crucial to implement measures that address the economic challenges that arise from stressful events such as COVID-19 and to strive to improve the lifestyles of adolescents under such circumstances.
Behavioral Predictors Associated With COVID-19 Vaccination and Infection Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Korea
Authors: Jung Minsoo
Published: January 2024

Objectives: This study investigated the impact of socioeconomic factors and sexual orientation-related attributes on the rates of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination and infection among men who have sex with men (MSM).Methods: A web-based survey, supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea, was conducted among paying members of the leading online portal for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer and questioning (LGBTQ+) community in Korea. The study participants were MSM living in Korea (n=942). COVID-19 vaccination and infection were considered dependent variables, while sexual orientation-related characteristics and adherence to non-pharmacological intervention (NPI) practices served as primary independent variables. To ensure analytical precision, nested logistic regression analyses were employed. These were further refined by dividing respondents into 4 categories based on sexual orientation and disclosure (or “coming-out”) status.Results: Among MSM, no definitive association was found between COVID-19 vaccination status and factors such as socioeconomic or sexual orientation-related attributes (with the latter including human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] status, sexual orientation, and disclosure experience). However, key determinants influencing COVID-19 infection were identified. Notably, people living with HIV (PLWH) exhibited a statistically significant predisposition towards COVID-19 infection. Furthermore, greater adherence to NPI practices among MSM corresponded to a lower likelihood of COVID-19 infection.Conclusions: This study underscores the high susceptibility to COVID-19 among PLWH within the LGBTQ+ community relative to their healthy MSM counterparts. Consequently, it is crucial to advocate for tailored preventive strategies, including robust NPIs, to protect these at-risk groups. Such measures are essential in reducing the disparities that may emerge in a post–COVID-19 environment.
Le pseudonyme sur le web social : un ethos discursif préalable
Authors: Seghier Souad
Published: January 2024

Dans la présente recherche, nous nous intéressons à la construction des pseudonymes que les internautes algériens utilisent dans leur compte Facebook. Le nœud de notre préoccupation git autour de la problématique de l’éthos (la présentation de soi) des Facebookers. Nous pensons que ces pseudonymes sont des masques utilisés non pour « mentir faux » mais pour « mentir vrai ». Ils sont considérés comme des discours préalables qui servent à présenter le nommer. Pour le confirmer, nous allons procéder à l’analyse de contenu des écrits publiés par les internautes en s’appuyant sur les méthodes et outils lexicométriques. Pour repérer les indices identificatoires qui émanent à la fois des pseudonymes et du discours, nous nous référons à la grille de l’image de soi de René L’Ecuyer1.
Les jeux électroniques au service du développement de la pensée réflexive
Authors: Haddad Meryem
Published: January 2024

Notre étude s’intéresse aux jeux vidéo comme étant des supports ludo-éducatifs permettant de développer des savoir-faire dans le cadre d’un environnement informel. Nous avons interrogé une population estimée de 111 collégiens algériens sur leurs attitudes relatives à la réflexivité, à l’habileté numérique et à la capacité de transposer le savoir-faire acquis par le jeu dans les attitudes sociales. Les résultats montrent qu’il existe une relation très forte entre le jeu et la pensée réflexive. Toutefois, notre étude révèle que les enquêtés ne transposent pas leurs habiletés virtuelles sur les scènes de vie quotidienne.
The Value Creation Model in the Sharing Economy
Authors: Pérez-Pérez Cristina , Nebreda-Calvo Rafael
Published: January 2024

The sharing economy has experienced exponential growth over the last decade, mainly based on its digital nature and on the changing trends regarding consumption habits. Based on digital platforms, this new consumption model promotes access over ownership and allows users to create communities with like-minded people to share their resources. Due to its popularization, it is necessary to analyze how the business model followed by sharing platforms and the peculiar characteristics of this phenomenon can generate different types of value. This chapter analyses how the sharing economy generates value from three different perspectives (economic, environmental, and social) and how it may represent a better alternative for consumption when compared to non-sharing alternatives.
Artificial Intelligence Educational Pedagogy Development
Authors: Matthew Ugochukwu Okwudili , Kazaure Jazuli Sanusi , Ndukwu Charles Chukwuebuka , Ebong Godwin Nse , Nwanakwaugwu Andrew Chinonso , Nwamouh Ubochi Chibueze
Published: January 2024

The current digital society has witnessed important developments in robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) research being applied to several spheres of life in order to address multitude of issues. While there are numerous studies on human-robot collaboration on low- and high-level tasks with a focus on robot development, in the current study, the chapter focused on organizational issues arising from human-robot co-working on education and research with particular reference to research and education network (REN) for universities as leverage to human capital development. The chapter identified critical issues in the current REN and tried to solve them with human-robot collaboration from an organizational and pedagogical normalization perspective. The research described an AI-powered instructional robotics application and the development process that the current society can participate and impact the AI pedagogic literacy using deep learning, introducing organizational robotics research studies with an emphasis on education and human capital expansion.
ChatGPT and Academia
Authors: Jose Shruti , Mohanty Priyakrushna
Published: January 2024

Since its launch in November 2022, this tool has brought massive transformations in almost every imaginable field. Among those fields, academia is perhaps the most discussed domain. However, much of what ChatGPT can do is still understudied. Therefore, this chapter aims to investigate the potential impact of ChatGPT in the domain of academia while exploring the possibilities for the future. The study emphasizes the theories that link ChatGPT's presence to its effects on academia and research.
Digital Educational Neuropsychology
Authors: Mudgil Mimansa , Chutani Vanshika
Published: January 2024

This chapter introduces the various facets of digital educational neuropsychology. It begins by explaining digital educational neuropsychology and the current practices in digital neuropsychology. It then explains the opportunities and the challenges faced by neuropsychology in digitization of neuropsychology education, training, assessment, and rehabilitation and how it can be improved. The challenges in the implementation of digital educational neuropsychology in terms of access and equity; validity and reliability of digital assessments; training and professional development; variability in the perceptual, motor, and cognitive demands across different devices; and the rapid changes in technology are explained elaborately. A full discussion on opportunities including enhancement of digital education using neuropsychological techniques, neuroscience experimental techniques, in tandem with behavioural measures is provided. Further, the importance of collaborative effort from professionals is required to build more effective strategies for digital education is emphasized.
Technology-Integrated After-School Program
Authors: Joseph Jasmine , Thomas Lijo , Gomes Roseline Florence , Yogesh L.
Published: January 2024

In the rapidly evolving context of the 21st century, education is experiencing a profound and transformative shift, driven by the emergence of digital technologies. This innovative paradigm seamlessly weaves technology into the very fabric of learning and administration, not only within the traditional school setting but also extending its transformative reach to affiliated initiatives like after-school programs. The aim of this chapter is to share the valuable insights and firsthand experiences gained from the integration of technology in the DREAMS program in both learning and project management. By sharing these learnings, the chapter aims to share the knowledge and best practices of adopting technology in any program.
The Application of Artificial Intelligence in Education
Authors: Singha Surjit , Singha Ranjit
Published: January 2024

The chapter investigates the challenges of implementing AI in education, including ethical and privacy concerns, the impact on teacher and student roles, bias and fairness in AI-based systems, and technical challenges. Furthermore, it discusses AI's potential policy and practice implications in education and outlines future research directions. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the transformative nature of AI in education and its capacity to enhance teaching and learning experiences, improve educational outcomes, and foster equitable access to quality education.
Quantitative Evaluation Method of Psychological Quality of College Teachers Based on Fuzzy Logic
Authors: Yang Liangqun , Li Jian
Published: January 2024

Based on the fuzzy method, this paper establishes a ranking model of the psychological quality of college teachers and an interception model of assessment indicators. On this basis, a quantitative evaluation method of college teachers' psychological quality is proposed by using the principles of fuzzy psychological evaluation and fuzzy recognition. According to empirical study, this evaluation approach is capable of providing a theoretical foundation for the next teacher training as well as a thorough assessment of the psychological qualities of teachers. The research concludes by pointing out that the model and evaluation approach can also be used to introduce and train university teachers, and it makes some sound recommendations for their development. An empirical study on the quantitative evaluation method of college teachers' psychological quality based on fuzzy psychological evaluation and fuzzy recognition principle is beneficial to better build the foundation of college teachers' psychological quality under the concept of harmonious education.
Deep Reinforcement Learning for Adaptive Stock Trading
Authors: Zhao Lei , Deng Bowen , Wu Liang , Liu Chang , Guo Min , Guo Youjia
Published: January 2024

In this study, the authors explore how financial institutions make decisions about stock trading strategies in a rapidly changing and complex environment. These decisions are made with limited, often inconsistent information and depend on the current and future strategies of both the institution itself and its competitors. They develop a dynamic game model that factors in this imperfect information and the evolving nature of decision-making. To model reward transitions, they utilize a combination of t-Copula simulation of a non-stationary Markov chain, probabilistic fuzzy regression, and chaos optimization algorithms. They then apply deep q-network, a method from deep reinforcement learning, to ensure the effectiveness of the chosen strategy during ongoing decision-making. The approach is significant for both researchers across fields and practical professionals in the finance industry.
Community-based assessment for infant, under-5 child and maternal mortality in tribal population of Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Bhardwaj Ashok , Singh Mitasha , Kumar Sanjay , Sharma Piyush
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Infant and child mortality rates are sensitive indicators of health services of any community. Tribal populations remain a disadvantaged group among other communities and the indicator of their accessibility and availability of health services is the infant and maternal mortality rates.Objectives: To assess reliable estimates and causes for the child (less than five year of age) mortality rate and maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of tribal population of Himachal Pradesh, and the maternal and child health services and facilities available in their health institutionsMethods: A community-based surveillance study was conducted in 2019-20 on the deaths of all children (less than five year of age) and maternal deaths in the entire population of two tribal districts i.e., Kinnaur and Lahau l & Spiti, and of two tribal blocks of Chamba District in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Sub-centres (SC) remained under the study for a period of one year. Verbal autopsies were conducted to ascertain the cause of death by community workers under the supervision of project staff. In addition, a cross-sectional facility survey was conducted, Health institution data were gathered using a pre-tested structured schedule adapted from the National Health Mission Facility Assessment Tool.Results: Majority (85%) of the SCs were functioning in Kinnaur District and 66% at Lahaul & Spiti District. In the latter district, the labour room was functional at primary health center (PHC). Civil and district hospitals were preferred for delivery while SC and PHC were preferred for preventive services. The infant mortality rate (IMR) of all districts was 24 per 1000 live births (LB). Most of the deaths were in post neonatal period (62%). Birth asphyxia and pneumonia were major causes. The 1-5-year mortality rate was 1 per 1000 LB, which was only reported from the district of Chamba. There were zero maternal mortalities during the survey period.Conclusions & Recommendations: The IMR in tribal districts was higher than the state average. Most deaths were due to birth asphyxia, hence indicates the importance of labour room preparedness at PHCs in these hard-to-reach areas.
Factors contributing to in-school bullying victimization among early adolescents – focus group discussions
Authors: Rupananda Dilini Shanika , Dissanayake Devani Sakunthala
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Bullying is a significant peer problem among school going adolescents which has many reported undesirable consequences. Identification of contributory factors of victimization is beneficial in addressing the bullying prevention programs.Objectives: To identify and explore the contributory factors of bullying victimization among school going adolescents in selected educational zone in Sri Lanka.Methods: Focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted among grade eight students from six randomly selected schools from each category of schools in the Kegalle educational zone. A convenient sampling technique was used to select the participants for each FGD. Thematic analysis was performed manually on the collected data.Results: Five main themes, namely, external appearance, problems with speech, suffering from illnesses, socioeconomic background and being a ‘newcomer’ were identified in the thematic analysis.Conclusions & Recommendations: Multiple contributory factors of in-school bullying victimization were identified in these focus group discussions. Therefore, the necessity of addressing the above factors, when addressing them in prevention programs is highlighted.
Reduced Expression of miR-146a Potentiates Intestinal Inflammation following Alcohol and Burn Injury
Authors: Herrnreiter Caroline J , Luck Marisa E , Cannon Abigail R , Li Xiaoling , Choudhry Mashkoor A
Published: January 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNA molecules that negatively regulate gene expression. Within the intestinal epithelium, miRNAs play a critical role in gut homeostasis, and aberrant miRNA expression has been implicated in various disorders associated with intestinal inflammation and barrier disruption. In this study, we sought to profile changes in intestinal epithelial cell miRNA expression after alcohol and burn injury and elucidate their impact on inflammation and barrier integrity. Using a mouse model of acute ethanol intoxication and burn injury, we found that small intestinal epithelial cell expression of miR-146a is significantly decreased 1 d following injury. Using in vitro studies, we show that reduced miR-146a promotes intestinal epithelial cell inflammation by promoting p38 MAPK signaling via increased levels of its target TRAF6 (TNFR-associated factor 6). Furthermore, we demonstrate that in vivo miR-146a overexpression significantly inhibits intestinal inflammation 1 d following combined injury and potentially supports intestinal barrier homeostasis. Overall, this study highlights the important impact that miRNA expression can have on intestinal homeostasis and the valuable potential of harnessing aberrant miRNA expression as a therapeutic target to control intestinal inflammation.
Ditterofauna (Insecta: Diptera) associata a carcasse di Colubridae e Natricidae (Reptilia: Squamata) nel sud del Piemonte (Italia nord occidentale)
Authors: Dutto Moreno , Carlomagno Francesco , Bonelli Domenico , Mendicino Federica
Published: January 2024

Il contributo riporta informazioni sulla Ditterofauna associata a carcasse di rettili rinvenuti in alcune aree del Piemonte. Calliphora vicina e Lucilia sericata (Diptera, Calliphoridae), Sarcophaga spp. e Megaselia spp. sono le specie rinvenute nel periodo primaverile-estivo, in aree urbane ed extraurbane.
New data on the Oriental Xantholinini. 54. New species from Mindanao (Philippines), new names and synonymies
Authors: Bordoni Arnaldo
Published: January 2024

Three new species from Mindanao (Metolinus zamboanga sp. n., Metolinus alamada sp. n., Manilla mindanaoensis sp. n.) are described and illustrated.
Segnalazioni faunistiche italiane
Authors: Trotta Alessio
Published: January 2024

640 - Turkozelotes noname Mazzia & Cornic, 2020 (Araneae, Gnaphosidae)
Note in merito al primo ritrovamento per l’Italia meridionale di un esemplare femmina di Stygioides italica Mazzei e Yakovlev (2016)
Authors: Rolli Erminio
Published: January 2024

In questa nota viene segnalato il primo ritrovamento per l’Italia meridionale di un esemplare femmina di Stygioides italica Mazzei e Yakovlev (2016) (Lepidoptera: Cossidae), viene inoltre descritto l’ambiente in cui l’esemplare è stato rinvenuto e vengono riportate alcune osservazioni in merito al suo comportamento.
Lemonia italiana: diffusione dettagliata, nuovi dati e note critiche
Authors: Parenzan Paolo , Potenza Luigi , Durante Antonio
Published: January 2024

Nel presente lavoro viene fatto un dettagliato compendio di quanto noto a tutt’oggi sulla diffusione di Lemonia italiana (Prozorov et al., 2022) e si aggiungono nuovi dati. Vengono inoltre corrette alcune inesattezze: A) Lemonia taraxaci ab. depuncta Stephens, 1924, recte Lemonia taraxaci ab. depuncta Stephan, 1924; B) Lemonia taraxaci ab. antigone Stauder, 1913 (type locality: Adriatic Sea coast), recte Lemonia taraxaci ab. antigone Stauder, 1913: typus “An einer Strassenlanterne in Scorcola” (circoscrizione di Trieste) (Venezia Giulia; Italia), va riferita a L. taraxaci e non a L. strigata.
Missed opportunity for tuberculosis screening among patients presenting at two health centres in Manafwa district, Uganda
Authors: Wamulima Titus , Masaba John P.M. , Musoke David , Mukunya David , Matovu Joseph K.B.
Published: January 2024

Background: Missed Tuberculosis (TB) screening opportunities are key drivers of continued tuberculosis transmission. Objective: To determine the proportion of and factors associated with missing TB screening amongst patients who attended two health centres in the Manafwa district to inform future TB prevention and control efforts in Uganda. Methods: A facility-based, cross-sectional study was conducted at two public health centres offering comprehensive TB services in Manafwa district, Uganda, among patients (≥ 18 years) who presented with at least one symptom suggestive of TB. Using exit interviews, data on demographics and TB symptoms were collected using an electronic structured questionnaire. A logistic regression model was performed to determine the factors associated with missed opportunities for TB symptom screening. Results: Of the 125 patients enrolled in the study, the majority 76.0%, (n=70) of patients presented with cough for 2 weeks or more (cough of any duration for HIV positive patients) and a big proportion, 68% (n=85) of patients missed the opportunity to be screened for TB. Having a; post-primary education level (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] =5.9; 95% Confidence Interval [95% CI] = 1.3, 27.1) and attending Bubulo HCIV (AOR= 0.01; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.2) were significantly associated with having a missed opportunity for TB screening. Conclusion: Slightly more than two-thirds of the patients who presented to the study health facilities with symptoms suggestive of TB missed the opportunity to be screened for TB. We suggest a need for a multifaceted intervention to improve TB screening, particularly among better-educated TB patients.
Virtue, well-being, and mentalized affectivity
Authors: Jurist Elliot , Greenberg David , Pizziferro Marissa , Alaluf Rozita , Perez Sosa Michael
Published: January 2024

Virtue ethics, featuring the claim that virtue leads to wellbeing, has been imported by psychologists from philosophy. In the first part of the paper, we re-examine the source of virtue ethics in Aristotle’s philosophy and question whether virtues can be the path to eudaimonistic well-being for us, given that contemporary society differs from ancient society in terms of a lack of consensus about virtues. We focus on the modulation of emotions as a good starting place for reconstruing virtue ethics, and we affirm a connection to well-being through the construct of “mentalized affectivity”, which is a specific kind of emotion regulation. In the second half of this hybrid paper, we provide evidence for the link between mentalized affectivity and well-being, based upon an empirical study with an adult sample (N=558). Our study examined how the Mentalized Affectivity Scale (MAS) predicts subjective well-being compared to five commonly used and related measures: Difficulty with Emotion Regulation Scale; Emotion Regulation Questionnaire; Flexibility Regulation of Emotional Expression scale; Reflective Functioning Questionnaire; Toronto Alexithymia Scale. The most important finding is that the MAS and Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale are most predictive of satisfaction with life. A second finding, less relevant for the present paper, is that the MAS (namely, its components of Identifying and Processing) strongly predicted psychopathology, including anxiety and mood disorders. This suggests that the MAS is a valuable tool for research on emotion regulation, well-being, and psychopathology, and that mentalized affectivity ought to be regarded as a promising construct for re-describing and specifying the contemporary relevance of virtue ethics.
Smart Insulin Pen: Managing Insulin Therapy for People with Diabetes in the Digital Era
Authors: Yoo Jee Hee , Kim Jae Hyeon
Published: January 2024

The number of insulin users in Korea has doubled over the past 20 years. Numerous studies have shown the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) on glycemic outcomes in people with diabetes receiving insulin therapy. However, patients often failed to reach the target even with the CGM. Advanced technology, such as automated insulin delivery (AID), can potentially reduce patient burden and improve glycemic status in people on insulin therapy. However, wearing a CGM all day and complex device operation could also burden users. Additionally, since insulin users are often elderly with type 2 diabetes, there is an urgent need for new devices that are more efficient and simpler than AID. In that sense, the smart insulin pen (SIP) is the expected future technology that does not need to be worn all day and helps to calculate insulin doses with a built-in bolus calculator integrated with CGM. In this context, we discuss efficient use of SIP as an educational tool.
Community-Based Intervention for Elderly Patients with Diabetes Mellitus: Assessing the Effectiveness of a YouTube Self-Education Program during the Global COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Son Hyo-Rim , Park So Youn , Ko Ye-Jin , Jung Da-Woon , Won Eun-Sook , Cho Aie-Hee , Shin Do Hyun , Kim Chun-Bae
Published: January 2024

Background: This study assessed a YouTube self-education program implemented for elderly patients with diabetes during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic at Hypertension and Diabetes Registration and Education Center (HDREC) in Hongcheon, Korea.Methods: Content analysis was conducted on diabetes-related videos uploaded on the YouTube channel ‘I want to know blood vessels!’ and the satisfaction of 266 patients with diabetes who participated in the online self-education program via a cross-sectional study was evaluated.Results: From 2020 to 2022, the HDREC periodically delivered a total of 38 diabetes care-related videos to this channel. The mean length of individual videos was approximately 7 minutes, and the total screening time for all videos reached about 289 minutes. Participants viewed videos on lifestyle habits such as nutrition care (up to 619 times), clinical understanding regarding diabetes (up to 578 times). In terms of satisfaction with self-education, 100% of the participants answered satisfied, and 100% answered helpful from video contents. The post-score (mean, 3.55 points) was significantly higher than the pre-score (mean, 2.43 points) after comparing the differences in knowledge levels of 74 patients who participated in this education program in 2022.Conclusion: Despite the stringent quarantine policies implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is expected that our YouTube education strategy will be more accessible for diabetes self-care, and will improve treatment compliance of patients with diabetes. Further research should focus on devising a more appropriate method for developing educational content based on patients’ video inquiry patterns and preferences in future crises involving non-communicable diseases.
Three-dimensional model of dolomitization patterns in the Salina Group A-1 Carbonate and A-2 Carbonate units, Sombra Township, Lambton County, southern Ontario
Authors: Carter T R , Logan C
E , Russell H A J
Published: January 2024

Dolomitization of carbonate rocks is a subject of considerable interest due to association with oil and gas reservoirs and Mississippi Valley Type ore deposits. Conceptual two-dimensional models of dolomitization are common in the literature, however numeric
models supported by high quality data are rare to nonexistent. This paper presents three-dimensional (3-D) dolomitization patterns in the Salina Group A-1 Carbonate Unit and A-2 Carbonate Unit located in Sombra Township, Lambton County. The source data consists of percent dolomite measurements
collected from 9727 drill cutting samples, stained with alizarin red, from 409 petroleum wells. Numerical interpolants of the percentage of dolomite versus limestone in the two formations are developed within the boundaries of lithostratigraphic formation layers derived from a 3-D geologic model of
southern Ontario, published as GSC Open File 8795 (Carter et al. 2021b). The model was developed using Leapfrog© Works software with a 400 m grid resolution. Results show that increased proportions of dolomite vs limestone in both formations are spatially associated with the flanks and crests
of pinnacles in the underlying Lockport Group carbonates, over which the B Salt has been dissolved, and the downthrown side of the Dawn Fault and Becher faults. In the A-1 Carbonate there is an increase in dolomite content over a minority of incipient reefs in the Lockport, and in the A-2 Carbonate
Unit there is a gradational increase in dolomite content upwards from a basal limestone to 100% dolomite. The cross-cutting relationships of dolomite occurrence in the A-1 Carbonate on the flanks and crests of some pinnacles support a post-depositional burial diagenesis mechanism, consistent
with previous interpretations. The pathway for the dolomitizing fluid was laterally through porous and permeable regional paleokarst in the underlying Lockport Group, uppermost Goat Island and Guelph formations, and upwards through the porous reefal carbonates of the pinnacles. Association of
dolomitization haloes with dissolution features in halite of the overlying B Salt Unit further suggest that the dolomitizing fluids were also responsible for salt dissolution. The preferential association of dolomite with the Dawn and Becher faults suggest that movement of the dolomitizing fluid was
also fault controlled. This project demonstrates the feasibility and merit of assignment and interpolation of attribute values constrained by lithostratigraphic layers in the regional 3-D geologic model of southern Ontario. Spatial associations of dolomite with other geological features are more
clearly resolved than in a 2-D study.
Geophysical data interpretation for the York University ATES site investigation, Ontario
Authors: Dietiker B , Pugin A J-M , Crow H , Brewer K , Russell H A J
Published: January 2024

Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) systems have the potential of reducing heating and cooling energy consumption at institutional and commercial scales. ATES systems are popular in Europe, particularly in areas of extensive glacial and post glacial
unconsolidated sediment. Southern Ontario shares numerous similarities with such settings. To support an ATES study at York University, Toronto, Ontario, three geophysical datasets were collected i) Microtremor analysis (the horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio technique, HVSR), ii) seismic
reflection, and iii) borehole geophysics. The three techniques provide different scales and resolution of subsurface investigation and form a complementary suite of tools. In areas with thick sediment cover, depth to bedrock estimations often suffer from sparse data. The HVSR technique is a low
cost, nonintrusive, rapid approach to estimating depth to bedrock. ATES systems commonly require enhanced information on the succession of surficial geological units, and aquifer geometry and heterogeneity. Seismic reflection data collection can provide insights into all these characteristics and
consequently provide greatly enhanced target information for follow-up drilling. The confidence in seismic interpretation can be improved through collection of subsurface information from drilling, either through the combination of drill core logging (sedimentology), core testing, and downhole
geophysics. Multiple downhole geophysical data were collected to support i) lithological characterisation (gamma, conductivity, magnetic susceptibility), ii) seismic velocity analysis (p and s-wave), and iii) hydrogeological characteristics (temperature, and porosity using nuclear magnetic
resonance). Collectively, the geophysical data can be framed in a basin analysis methodology. This study shows that these surveys can reduce uncertainty - and potentially the cost - of mitigating a poorly understood geological context that could compromise the full potential of an ATES
development.
Comparison of the analgesic efficacy of the ultrasound-guided transversalis fascia plane block and erector spinae plane block in patients undergoing open inguinal hernia repair under spinal anesthesia
Authors: Çelik Hale Kefeli , Tulgar Serkan , Bük Ömer Faruk , Koç Kadem , Ünal Murat , Genç Caner , Süren Mustafa
Published: January 2024

Background: Open inguinal hernia repair (OIHR) surgery is a common surgical procedure, and ultrasound guided interfascial plane blocks can also be included in current approaches to postoperative multimodal analgesia regimens. This study aimed to compare the postoperative analgesic efficacy of the erector spinae plane block (ESPB) and transversalis fascia plane block (TFPB) in patients undergoing OIHR.Methods: This prospective, randomized, assessor-blinded comparative study was conducted in the postoperative recovery room and ward of a tertiary hospital. A total of 80 patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I–III were enrolled and allocated equally to either the ESPB or TFPB group. The patients received standard multimodal analgesia in addition to an ultrasound-guided ESPB or TFPB. During the first 24 h postoperatively, tramadol consumption was assessed and pain levels at rest and during movement were compared using numeric rating scale (NRS) scores at 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 h postoperatively.Results: The results showed no difference in NRS scores at any time point between the groups, except for NRS at rest in the third hour. However, tramadol consumption was lower in the TFPB group than in the ESPB group overall (88 ± 75.2 vs. 131 ± 93.7 mg, respectively; P = 0.027, mean difference: −43, 95% CI [−80.82, −5.18]).Conclusions: The TFPB leads to lower tramadol requirements in the first 24 h postoperatively than the ESPB in patients undergoing OIHR.
Off-label use of KONAR-MF™ occluder for transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus in unusual circumstances
Authors: Banpurkar Ashishkumar , Koneti Nageswara Rao , Thakur Prashant , Kulkarni Snehal M. , Prabhu Atul , Doniparti Pavan Kumar Venkata
Published: January 2024

Background:

Transcatheter patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure with unusual morphology associated with multiple constrictions or unusual circumstances such as interruption of inferior vena cava (IVC) is still challenging. This study evaluates the use of KONAR-MF™ (Lifetech Scientific Co Ltd., Shenzhen) for transcatheter closure of PDA in such situations.

Materials and Methods and Results:

Between January 2021 and October 2021, 24 patients from three different tertiary care centers underwent PDA device closure using the KONAR-MF™ device and are included in the study. Patient demographics, echocardiographic assessment, procedural details including the approach, device details, complications, and follow-up data were recorded. The median age and weight of the cohort were 2 years (0.5–41) and 10 kg (5–98), respectively. The indications for using KONAR-MF™ were (a) unusual morphology of PDA in 14, long tubular PDA in 8, and long tubular with multiple constrictions in 6 patients and (b) unusual circumstances such as interrupted IVC in 6 and inability to cross PDA antegradely in 4 due to dilated main pulmonary artery. The procedure was successful in all the patients and no procedure-related complications were noted in this cohort. Median follow-up of 9 months (range: 5–18) showed no residual shunt and only one patient had flow acceleration across the left pulmonary artery (peak Doppler gradient 16 mmHg).

Conclusions:

KONAR-MF™ device can be used safely and effectively for transcatheter closure of PDA with unusual anatomy or in unusual circumstances.
Effectiveness of Oral Zinc Therapy as an Adjunct to Intralesional Measles, Mumps, and Rubella Vaccine in Patients of Verruca Vulgaris
Authors: Jain Sonia P , Bansode Dhaval Kumar , Harode Shantanu S , Sonkusale Pratiksha
Published: January 2024

Background:

Verruca vulgaris (VV) is caused by human papillomavirus affecting both keratinized and nonkeratinized epithelium. Different treatment modalities are available leading to scarring, pain, and ineffectiveness. Injection of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) not only clears treated warts but also distant warts by stimulating cell-mediated immunity.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to study the efficacy of adjuvant zinc with injectable MMR vaccine in treatment with side effects of treatments, the pattern of regression, the number of injections required for clearance, and the recurrence of verruca.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty patients having verruca were divided into groups A and B with 25 patients each. Group A received an injection of MMR and tablet of zinc whereas group B only injection MMR. A total of five injections were given in the largest wart at intervals of 2 weeks i.e., 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks. Follow-up was done at 3rd month and 6th months following 1st dose. Improvement in warts and patient satisfaction were assessed using visual analog scale and Likert scale, respectively.

Results:

Mean age of patients in groups A and B was 30.36 and 32.68 with male-to-female ratio 5.28:1 (21:4) and 1.77:1 (16:9), respectively. Mean numbers and size of lesions in group A and B were 2.24 (±1.59), 1.84 (±1.40) and 5.52 mm, 5.08 mm, respectively. Eighty-four percentage of patients in both groups needed five injections for complete clearance. Pain was the most common side effect in all patients of both groups whereas gastritis, fever, and lymphadenopathy were observed only in one patient of Group A. Patients in both groups were strongly satisfied on Likert’s scale.

Conclusion:

Oral zinc as an adjuvant with MMR vaccine for the treatment of VV was equally safe but did not prove to be of higher efficacy in our study.
A Descriptive Study of Nail Changes in Systemic Diseases
Authors: Mendagudli Chanabasappa , Thejaswi Sanjay Ramachandra , Ramesh M , Shendre Mohan Eshwar Rao , Thampi Anila Sara , Ankitha R
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives:

Nail findings may represent a part of the symptom complex that may be useful for the physical diagnosis. Thus, the present study was undertaken to know the nail changes in systemic diseases among patients attending the outpatient and inpatient departments of dermatology, medicine, nephrology, pulmonology, and surgery attached to Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Hubballi.

Methodology:

A hospital-based original study was conducted at KIMS, Hubballi. During January 1, 2021–January 30, 2023, data were collected by personal interview after obtaining informed consent from all eligible participants using a prestructured and pretested pro forma, among a convenient sample of 272 patients selected by the simple random sampling method.

Results:

Among 272 patients, 57.5% of the patients were young adults with male predominance (56.0%) and inpatients (66.0%) were more compared to outpatients (44%). Of the 272 patients, respiratory system (RS) (26%) was most common involved followed by hematology (21.0%), gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and liver (17%), cardiovascular system (CVS) and renal (12%), and clubbing was the most common nail change encountered (35.5%) followed by longitudinal ridging (33%) and pallor (31%) of the nail subsequently. RS was found as the common cause of clubbing followed by CVS and liver and GIT.

Conclusion:

RS (clubbing) was the most common system involved. Other systems involvement were renal system (half and half nail), liver, and GIT system (Terry’s nail) which are the specific nail changes that can lead us to the diagnosis. Thus, nails can serve as a window for the underlying systemic illness.
The Untold Story of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Srihari Sahana , Shenoy M Manjunath
Published: January 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD) has an impact on all aspects of patients’ life. It affects the quality of life and emotional well-being of a person. A great number of comorbidities occur in patients with AD, apart from the cutaneous features. This review is about the varied comorbidities of AD and its burden on the patient. There are three types of review: Scoping review; literature review; and nonsystematic review. There are various interrelated comorbidities in AD. Chronic pruritus and inflammation lead to psychosocial stress, anxiety, and depression. AD is associated with asthma, hay fever, food allergy, eosinophilic esophagitis, and allergic contact dermatitis. Other associations are cutaneous and extracutaneous infections of bacterial, viral, and fungal origin. AD is also associated with various autoimmune and cardiovascular diseases. AD is associated with several comorbidities which directly and indirectly affects the patient and their immediate family in terms of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. There is a need for such a review regarding the associations between AD and nonallergic conditions as the early detection and management improves the patient’s overall wellbeing.
Purpuric Macules in a Linear Distribution on the Left Forearm and Arm in a 14 Year Old Boy
Authors: Rai Tulika , Mahawar Rajendra Kumar , Mohan Atul , Goyal Deeksha
Published: January 2024

Angioma serpiginosum is a rare, benign vascular nevoid disorder due to ectatic dilatation of capillaries in the papillary dermis. It usually occurs in early childhood, affects females more than males, and is distributed predominantly over lower limbs. We report a case of a 14-year-old boy, who presented with multiple asymptomatic reddish, macules in a linear pattern on the inner aspect of the left upper limb for a total duration of 2 years with dermoscopic and histopathological features suggestive of angioma serpiginosum.
Fixed Eruptions: Drug, Food, and What More?
Authors: Sangolli Prabhakar Mallikarjuna , George Neethu Mary
Published: January 2024

Fixed drug eruption (FDE) is a common entity encountered in our day-to-day clinical practice. It is a T-cell-dependent pathway with induction of interferon-gamma-producing CD8+ T-cells in the dermis and epidermis. It is not just a drug that causes a fixed eruption but has also been described with food known as fixed food eruption and also with other agents. The article describes the common causes and pathomechanism of FDE.
Succinate dehydrogenase deficient renal cell carcinoma: A case report of an uncommon renal cancer
Authors: Kodare Duhita , Menon Santosh , Prakash Gagan , Desai Sangeeta
Published: January 2024

Succinate dehydrogenase-deficient renal cell carcinoma (SDH-deficient RCC) is a rare type of renal cancer with distinct morphological features and diagnostic immunohistochemistry characterized by the absence of SDH immunostaining. The pathologists and the clinician need to be aware of this entity in view of their indolent course in most cases. We present here the first case from India of SDHB-deficient RCC.
Optical coherence tomography in papilledema: A probe into the intracranial pressure correlation
Authors: Bassi Shikha Talwar , Pamu Ramesh , Ambika Selvakumar , Praveen Smita , Priyadarshini Durga , Dharini Vidhya , Padmalakshmi K
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

To study the optic nerve head characteristics on optical coherence tomography (OCT) in patients with papilledema and correlate them with intracranial pressure (ICP).

Methods:

A retrospective hospital-based study of 46 eyes of 23 patients with bilateral optic disc edema secondary to increased ICP. The clinical profile and the OCT features in terms of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFL), ganglion cell inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thickness, and enhanced depth imaging (EDI) B scan images of the optic nerve head were studied and correlated with the ICP.

Results:

Papilledema was secondary to idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) (n = 20), obstructive hydrocephalus (n = 2), and communicating hydrocephalus (n = 1). The mean ICP in 20 IIH patients was 347 mmH2O. The ICP and RNFL thickness in all four quadrants were found to be weakly positively correlated: superior RNFL r (38) = 0.17, P = 0.30, and nasal RNFL r (38) = 0.30, P = 0.05, inferior RNFL r (38) = 0.29, P = 0.07, and temporal RNFL, r (38) = −0.001, P = 0.99. The GCIPL layer thickness and the ICP were weakly negatively correlated in all sectors: superior (38) = −0.23, P = 0.16, superonasal, r (38) = −0.07, P = 0.67, inferonasal r (38) = −0.08, P = 0.64, inferior r (38) = −0.21, P = 0.19, inferotemporal r (38) = −0.23, P = 0.17, superotemporal, r (38) −0.21, P = 0.20. Descriptive features on the B scan, such as peripapillary hyperreflective ovoid mass-like structures and microcystic spaces, were observed most commonly with an ICP of 251–350 mmH2O, and the hyperreflective dots in the RNFL layer and Bruch’s membrane inward denting were observed more commonly with an ICP of 351–450 mmH2O.

Conclusion:

The RNFL thickness in all four quadrants had a weak positive correlation, and the GCIPL layer had a weak negative correlation with the ICP. The EDI descriptive features on OCT may vary with ICP.