bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
Authors: Smith Andrea N.
Published: April 2021

Since the conception of education in the United States, schools have been the battlegrounds for equal opportunities among African American students. In an effort to improve educational options and achievement for such students, charter schools have emerged as a popular solution for failing schools. The literature and case study in this chapter provides a sociohistorical look at the education of African Americans and African American parents' perceptions of charter schools and their expectations that they hold for educational institutions. The level of hope that was evident from the parent narratives centered on non-academic measures such as cultural pride and caring environments and mirrored that of pre-Brown schools that served African American students. The case study does not suggest that charters are the solution to educational inequity but may serve as one promising avenue for educational reform that should be informed by culturally responsive practices that encourage collaboration between schools and African American families.
Advancing Global Business Ethics in China
Authors: Wolf Ruth , Thiel Monica
Published: April 2021

This chapter presents China's global business outlook within an analysis of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to reduce poverty through human welfare improvement. The chapter examines human rights within China's social, environmental, and economic resources domestically and globally. Although China's economic acceleration has been substantial, its inability to consistently observe and enforce international human rights laws and norms detracts from its economic success. This is not something that China can easily achieve due to challenges of social instability and increasing demographic problems stemming from a large population with diverse needs. The authors suggest ways to enhance human rights conduct according to the UN Guiding Principles in China and in other countries through responsible management education.
Self and Peer E-Assessment
Authors: Babo Rosalina , Rocha Joana , Fitas Ricardo , Suhonen Jarkko , Tukiainen Markku
Published: April 2021

In recent years, universities and other academic institutions have been performing collaborative learning to improve the students' skills, competencies, and learning outcomes. The problem-based learning approach is a learning method where students can work in groups to develop these skills. However, when working in groups, the students are not always being assessed accordingly to their contributions to the work development. Therefore, self and peer assessment are becoming a common practice in academic institutions. With the technology evolution and the emerging of assessment software tools, the evaluators' work is becoming easier. This paper presents seven different tools, as well as their features and functionalities. To evaluate and compare these tools, some parameters are presented and described, based on usability and user experience definitions. It concludes that there is a demand to develop a freeware tool, with parameters not presented in the existing evaluation tools to assist the lecturer in the assessment.
Assessing the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge of Pre-Service Science Teachers at a South African University
Authors: Ramnarain Umesh , Pieters Annesca , Wu Hsin-Kai
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate preservice science teachers' proficiency levels regarding their practical knowledge of technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK-P). A sample of 103 third- and fourth-year participants from a South African university were surveyed on their TPACK-P proficiency levels using a 17-item questionnaire developed by Yeh, Lin, Hsu, Wu, and Hwang. Rasch analysis was employed to analyse the data. The findings of the study showed that the great majority of preservice science teachers have a proficiency level of 3 for their knowledge on TPACK-P. A proficiency level of 3 demonstrates the infusive application, where the teacher makes use of ICTs to guide learners to self-explore and independently construct their science knowledge. These baseline findings could inform higher education institutions in reviewing their teacher development programmes for pre-service science teacher preparedness in harnessing the affordances of ICT in their teaching.
Endoscopic Anatomy of Lateral and Third Ventricles
Authors: Sahana Debabrata , Rathore Lavlesh , Kumar Sanjeev , Sahu Rajiv K
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Endoscopic third ventriculostomy is a safe alternative to ventriculo-peritoneal shunt for certain cases of obstructive hydrocephalus. It has the advantage of not leaving a permanent foreign body in-situ, besides preventing over-drainage and reducing chances of infection. A thorough knowledge of endoscopic anatomy of ventricles is a must for performing various endoscopic procedures.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the endoscopic anatomy of ventricles for educational purpose.

Procedure:

ETV is done using a zero-degree LOTTA endoscope. Right Kocher's point is usually chosen as entry site into ventricle. The scope is negotiated into third ventricle through foramen of Monro. The premammillary membrane is perforated and dilated, thereby communicating the third ventricle to the chiasmatic, interpeduncular and prepontine cisterns. The video was recorded on Karl Storz recording system. It was edited using Imovie software. Photographs labeling was done using Windows PowerPoint 2018.

Conclusion:

Endoscopic anatomy knowledge allows a neurosurgeon to perform ETV safely.
A Rare Case of Wobbly, Psychotic Patient with Frozen Eyes - Anti-AMPA Receptor Encephalitis
Authors: Ashok V R , Nagabushana D , Yashwanth G , Mahadevan A , Netravathi M
Published: April 2021

Background:

Anti α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR) encephalitis is a rare autoimmune encephalitis. They present with memory, confusion or behavioral changes.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to describe unusual clinical features in a patient with AMPAR-associated encephalitis.

Case:

A 42-year-old female presented to us with bulbar and gait disturbances of three weeks duration and behavioral changes for ten days. She was found to have memory impairment along with psychosis. She had left eye ptosis, restricted eye movements, sluggish deep tendon reflexes, and bilateral cerebellar signs. Her serum and CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) AMPAR2 antibodies were strongly positive; CT (computed tomography) chest showed evidence of Thymoma. She was treated with steroids with significant improvement initially but expired within 3 months of diagnosis.

Conclusion:

This is the first report of AMPAR associated encephalitis from India presenting with unique clinical features affecting both the CNS (central nervous system)––(psychosis, ataxia, cognition) and PNS––peripheral nervous system involvement (ptosis, restricted eye movements, bulbar disturbances).
Is “En Masse” Tumor Resection a Safe Surgical Strategy for Low-Grade Gliomas? Feasibility Report on 74 Patients Treated Over Four Years
Authors: Goel Atul , Shah Abhidha , Vutha Ravikiran , Dandpat Saswat , Hawaldar Akshay
Published: April 2021

Background:

Gliomas are “confined” tumors arising from a named white fiber tract and displacing adjoining “normal” white fibers. The surgical strategy of “en masse” resection of gliomas based on this concept is evaluated.

Objective:

We evaluate the feasibility of the surgical strategy of “en masse” tumor resection for low-grade gliomas arising from the short arcuate fibers.

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated our series of 74 patients with low-grade gliomas involving the short arcuate fibers who were operated on between the years January 2016 and June 2019. The tumor resection was done on the premise that gliomas arise from and grew along a specific white fiber tract and the expanding tumor displaced but did not transgress the border formed by adjoining tracts. Although modified as per the situation, an en masse tumor resection strategy was the basis of surgical resection. Intraoperative motor cortical and subcortical mapping was performed in 14 cases. Awake surgery was performed on 11 patients.

Results:

There were 46 males and 28 females. Total/supratotal tumor resection was achieved in 62 (83.8%) patients. Forty-seven patients had an essentially en masse tumor resection. Seventy-one patients improved in their preoperative complaints. The follow-up ranged from 11 to 56 months. Sixty-two patients who underwent a total or supratotal resection were not given any adjuvant treatment. Twelve patients with subtotal resection were subjected to adjuvant radiotherapy with or without additional chemotherapy.

Conclusions:

En masse tumor resection of low-grade gliomas is possible and “safe” based on understanding that gliomas are “confined” tumors and have a well-defined plane of surgical dissection.
Removal of Perirolandic Cavernoma with Direct Cortical Stimulation and Neuronavigation with DTI
Authors: Yeole Ujwal , Gohil Dhaval , Shukla Dhaval , Bhardawaj Suparna
Published: April 2021

Background and Introduction:

Intraoperative neuromonitoring for eloquent cortical lesions is irreplaceable in present-day neurosurgery.

Objective:

We report a novel technique of combining awake craniotomy with direct cortical stimulation of the motor cortex using the NIM© nerve monitoring system.

Technique:

A 17-year-old boy presenting with focal motor seizures, diagnosed with left perirolandinc cavernoma, underwent awake craniotomy and complete excision under direct cortical stimulation with NIM monopolar stimulator electrode to locate the motor cortex.

Result:

The patient developed transient weakness of handgrip during surgery, which improved by the same day evening. At 3 months follow-up, he could perform all the activities with his dominant right hand.

Conclusion:

Cortical stimulation using a nerve monitoring system is a useful technique in case of nonavailability of standard evoked potential monitoring system for motor cortex mapping.
Utility of Serial Nerve Conduction Studies in the Electrodiagnosis of Guillain–Barre Syndrome
Authors: Mani Arun Mathai , Prabhakar Appaswamy Thirumal , Alexander P T , Nair Aditya , Vijayaraghavan Asish , Shaikh Atif , Benjamin Rohit , Sivadasan Ajith , Mathew Vivek , Aaron Sanjith , Alexander Mathew
Published: April 2021

Background:

Guillain–Barre syndrome can be electrophysiologically classified into demyelinating and axonal subtypes and nerve conduction studies remain the mainstay in electrodiagnosis. Accurate electrodiagnosis has both therapeutic and prognostic significance and different criteria sets have been proposed for classification.

Objectives:

To electrophysiologically classify GBS patients into AIDP and axonal subtypes according to various published criteria (Cornblath, 1990: Hadden, 1998, Rajabally, 2015), investigate if serial NCS changes the classification, and to identify additional parameters which may support the electrodiagnosis.

Materials and Methods:

In a retrospective study, we included all patients aged 15 to 80 years, admitted with a diagnosis of GBS between August 2015 and July 2017, who had at least two serial NCS. The various published criteria were applied to the two serial NCS and subtype classification along with diagnostic shifts on serial NCS were ascertained.

Results:

At the first test, the established criteria gave a yield of 45.2% to 71% for AIDP, while 29% to 54.8% of patients were classified as axonal GBS. In the second study, there was a change in electrodiagnosis, ranging from 9.6% to 16.1%. The resolution of reversible conduction failure and misclassification of subtypes were the major reason for diagnostic shifts. Sural sparing pattern, facial nerve dysfunction, abnormal blink reflex, and phrenic nerve dysfunction were more common in AIDP.

Conclusions:

Serial nerve conduction studies allow an accurate electrodiagnosis of GBS subtypes, which has both therapeutic and prognostic implications. Also, the use of additional parameters such as blink reflex facial and phrenic nerve conduction may supplement routine NCS.
Determinants of Suboptimal Outcome Following Thymectomy in Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Shreedhara A S , Nair Sruthi S , Unnikrishnan Madathipat , Sandhyamani S , Sarma P S , Nair Muralidharan , Sarada C
Published: April 2021

Background:

Response to thymectomy in myasthenia gravis (MG) is influenced by various patient-, disease-, and therapy-related factors.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of 128 patients with MG who underwent maximal thymectomy over 15 years was done to identify the determinants of suboptimal clinical outcome.

Results:

Among the 128 patients, 62 (48.4%) were females with a mean age of 38.97 (12.29) years. Thymomatous MG occurred in 66 (51.6%). Overall improvement from preoperative status was noted in 88 (68.8%) patients after mean follow-up of 51.68 (33.21) months. The presence of thymoma was the major predictor of suboptimal clinical outcome (P = 0.001), whereas age, gender, preoperative disease severity, and seropositive status did not attain significance. Patients with better outcome had received higher steroid dose preoperatively (P = 0.035).

Conclusions:

Suboptimal response after thymectomy occurred in one-third of MG patients, more commonly with thymomatous MG. Relationship of preoperative steroid therapy to remission merits evaluation.
A Case of CNS Actinomycosis
Authors: Limaye Harshad S , Hinduja Anupa R A , Verma Mitusha , Oak Pradyumna J
Published: April 2021

We report a case of cerebral actinomycosis in a 62-year-old male who presented with right-sided weakness and focal convulsions. MRI scan showed a solid intra axial space occupying lesion in the left frontal lobe. Left parietal craniotomy with intra-operative USG guided aspiration and excision of the mass (containing necrotic material) was done. Actinomyces israelii was isolated from the aspirated material. Patient received ceftriaxone and clindamycin for 12 weeks. Physiotherapy and anti-epileptic drugs were continued. On subsequent follow-up visits, his power improved to 5/5 in lower limb, 4/5 in proximal upper limb, 2/5 in distal upper limb. Actinomycosis can cause diverse clinical manifestations, and therefore clinical suspicion is key to diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to good treatment outcomes.
Primary Central Nervous System Lymphomatoid Granulomatosis Presenting as Diffuse Corpus Callosum Lesions
Authors: Xiang Yuanyuan , Li Jifeng , Sun Qinjian , Liu Xiaohui
Published: April 2021

Lymphomatoid granulomatosis (LYG) is a rare lymphoproliferative disease characterized by angiocentric and angiodestructive infiltrate. It primarily affects the lung and sometimes may also affect the central nervous system (CNS), skin, kidney, liver, etc., but the involvement of lymph nodes and/or bone marrow is extremely rare, and if present, other diagnoses are usually considered. Isolated CNS involvement is very rare, and its pathogenesis and biological behavior have been controversially discussed. Here, we report a 46-year-old man with diffuse and symmetrical corpus callosum involvement. The histopathological findings were in keeping with LYG. Since there was no evidence of involvement of other organs, he was diagnosed with primary CNS-LYG. He responded well to steroids and his symptoms improved significantly. We also conduct an English literature review to provide clues for the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
Clinical and Mutation Spectra of Cockayne Syndrome in India
Authors: Narayanan Dhanya L , Tuteja Moni , McIntyre Adam D , Hegele Robert A , Calmels Nadege , Obringer Cathy , Laugel Vincent , Mandal Kausik , Phadke Shubha R
Published: April 2021

Background:

Cockayne syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by biallelic mutations in ERCC6 or ERCC8 genes.

Aims:

To study the clinical and mutation spectrum of Cockayne syndrome.

Setting and Design:

Medical Genetics Outpatient Department of Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow. This was a prospective study from 2007 to 2015.

Materials and Methods:

Clinical details were recorded, and sequencing of ERCC6 and ERCC8 were performed.

Results and Conclusions:

Of the six families, one family had a homozygous mutation in ERCC8 and the other five families had homozygous mutations in ERCC6. Novel variants in ERCC6 were identified in four families. Phenotypic features may vary from severe to mild, and a strong clinical suspicion is needed for diagnosis during infancy or early childhood. Hence, molecular diagnosis is needed for confirmation of diagnosis in a child with a suspicion of Cockayne syndrome. Prenatal diagnosis can be provided only if molecular diagnosis is established in the proband.
Impact of sleep quality on cognitive functions in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Aggrawal Saurav , Paul Birinder Singh , Singh Gagandeep , Bansal Rajinder Kumar
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND:

Sleep disorders lead to cognitive deficits in healthy people and are thought to have significant impact on cognition in Parkinson’s disease (PD).

OBJECTIVE:

To study the sleep pattern and its relationship to cognitive functioning in non-demented PD cohort.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Sleep was evaluated by Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) in a cohort of PD patients. Comprehensive assessment of cognitive domains including attention, executive functions, short/long-term verbal memory, visual memory, and visuospatial functioning was done by battery of neuro-physiological tests on patients in “ON” state. Based on the component PSQI sleep score, patients were grouped as having "good quality sleep" (PSQI score ≤ 5) or "poor quality sleep" (PSQI score > 5). The demographic profile, disease characteristics, treatment, and cognitive tests were then compared between the two groups.

RESULTS:

Of 130 patients with diagnosis of PD, 85 patients were included. 63 (74.1%) had good sleep quality while 22 (25.9%) had poor sleep quality. Mean age and disease characteristic were comparable between two groups except that females had statistically significant (P = 0.001) poor sleep quality as compared to men. Poor sleep quality had significant effect on cognitive functions including generativity, inhibition, set-shifting, perseveration, and attention but there was no impact of sleep on verbal memory, visual memory, and visuospatial abilities.

CONCLUSION:

PD patients with poor sleep quality on PSQI questionnaire should be carefully screened for presence of any cognitive impairment especially executive impairment, as these two may be inter-related. Intervention to improve sleep would have far reaching benefits to improve the quality of life of PD patients.
A Survey of the History and Applications of American Ginseng (西洋参)
Authors: Bahaji Azami Nisma Lena , Yu Qun , Shen Yun-Hui
Published: April 2021

American ginseng (Panax Quinquefolium L), also known as Xi Yang Shen (西洋参 Radix Panacis Quinquefolii), is indigenous to the United States and Canada. Its discovery in the 1700s paved the way for international trade, which boosted the economy of the New World and helped build commercial ties between the US and China. Due to its therapeutic effects, the demand for American ginseng grew steadily, eventually causing the volume of wild ginseng to dwindle. As a result, laws and regulations were introduced requiring farmers and exporters to engage in harvesting practices that would preserve wild American ginseng. Nowadays, wild American ginseng is considered an endangered and protected species. This article discusses the history, properties, and applications of American ginseng to optimize its use and protection.
Umbilical cord artery atresia
Authors: Nayar Sakshi , Sharma Nidish , Rao Seema , Mansukhani Chandra , Gujral Kanwal
Published: April 2021

Umbilical cord has two arteries and one vein. The absence of one artery is referred to as single umbilical artery which could be because of primary agenesis of umbilical artery or atrophy or secondary atresia of the previously normally developed umbilical artery. The former is associated with foetal malformations and later can lead to haemodynamic changes in foetal circulation resulting in impaired foetal growth and its consequences. Histopathology of the umbilical cord is the gold standard for confirmation of the diagnosis.
Depression, Anxiety, Stress and Workplace Stressors among Nurses in Tertiary Health Care Settings
Authors: Kaushik Akshiti , Ravikiran SR , Suprasanna K , Nayak Malathi G. , Baliga Kiran , Acharya Sahana Devadasa
Published: April 2021

Background:

Chronic job stress adversely impacts both mental health of nurses and patient care. There is paucity of data regarding workplace stressors and negative emotions among nurses.

Aims:

To assess depression, anxiety and stress among nurses and analyse their association with workplace stressors.

Settings and Design:

A hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted in two tertiary care hospitals.

Methods and Material:

Four hundred and thirty one nurses completed nurses rated depression, Anxiety and Stress instrument (DASS-21) and a questionnaire probing perceived workplace stressors on a 4 point Likert scale . The stressors across subgroups of workareas were compared.

Satistical Analysis:

Association between stress, anxiety or depression and workplace stressors were analysed using binary logistic regression.

Results:

50.8% of nurses had stress; 74% had anxiety; 70.8% had depression. 79.1% had at least one of them. Stressed, anxious or depressed nurses were more concerned about lack of job satisfaction and conflicts with supervisors. Work-place stressors varied with work areas: private hospital, no job satisfaction, conflicts with doctors and patients; government hospital, acquiring infectious diseases; ICUs, inadequate salary; non-ICUs, odour and sounds in workplace and conflicts with patients.

Conclusions:

Prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress was high. Workplace stressors varied across different working areas. Interventions need are to be tailored accordingly.
Evaluation of Analgesic Efficacy of Caudal Bupivacaine with Clonidine Versus Bupivacaine alone in Pediatric Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Kumar Lakshmi , Nair Mahesh Chandran , Divakar Kalesh , Vijayakumar Meenakshi , Varghese Rekha , Rajan Sunil
Published: April 2021

Background:

Caudal local anesthetics with and without additives are increasingly being used for pain management in children. The primary objective of the present study was to compare intraoperative fentanyl consumption in pediatric patients undergoing laparoscopic surgeries under general anesthesia with supplemental caudal analgesia with and without addition of clonidine. The secondary outcomes were comparison of intraoperative and postoperative hemodynamic changes, postoperative pain, and postoperative analgesic requirements.

Materials and Methods:

In this prospective randomized trial, 32 children aged 6 months to 6 years were recruited. Group B received 2 mg/kg bupivacaine in 1.25 ml/kg, while Group BC received 2 mg/kg bupivacaine with 1 µg/kg clonidine in 1.25 ml/kg as caudal medication after induction of general anesthesia. Chi-square test, independent sample t-test, and Mann–Whitney U-test were used as applicable.

Results:

Intraoperative use of fentanyl and percentage of patients who required additional fentanyl intraoperatively and postoperatively were comparable in both groups. Intraoperative heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were comparable in both groups most of the time. HR was significantly higher in Group B at 1 h intraoperatively with significantly higher SBP at 10 min after caudal. Postoperative HR and SBP were comparable in both groups. Group B had significantly higher MAP in the immediate postoperative period. Postoperative pain as assessed by FLACC (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability) scale was comparable between groups with the exception of it being lesser in Group B at 8 h postoperatively.

Conclusion:

Clonidine 1 µg/kg added to caudal bupivacaine did not improve analgesia in comparison to bupivacaine alone in children undergoing laparoscopic surgery.
Our Experience with the Mid-Point Transverse Process to Pleura Block in Two Patients Undergoing Modified Radical Mastectomy
Authors: Syal Rashmi , Chhabra Swati , Kumar Rakesh , Kamal Manoj
Published: April 2021

Thoracic paravertebral block is frequently used in the breast surgeries. Procedure-related complications lead to the development of safer approaches to make patient pain free with fewer side effects. One such approach is the “mid-point transverse process to pleura” (MTP) block. Here, we present our experience with two patients scheduled for modified radical mastectomy where ultrasound-guided MTP block was performed for analgesia.
Epidural Pump Implantation in Refractory Pain in Pancreatic Carcinoma
Authors: Malik Sunny , Joshi Saurabh , Malik Shraddha , Dadhwal Leena , Dey Samarjit
Published: April 2021

Reported is a case of an epidural pump implantation done in a patient with refractory pancreatic cancer pain. The patient was earlier given celiac and splanchnic nerve block and later an epidural pump was implanted when the total oral morphine dose requirements increased to >100 mg/day that led to poor tolerance of its side effects. The patient responded very well to the epidural pump with >50% pain relief.
Celiac Plexus Neurolysis for Intractable Upper Abdominal Malignant Pain
Authors: Agarwal Anurag , Rastogi Shivani , Gautam Anuj , Malviya Deepak , Rai Sujeet , Giri Manoj , Mishra Shilpi , Yadav Sandeep
Published: April 2021

Celiac plexus neurolysis (CPN) is an effective intervention of upper abdominal malignant pain. Multiple approaches have been described for performing CPN. This narrative review has been done to evaluate current literature on CPN by different approaches and to determine whether anyone approaches is better. The literature search of PubMed and Google Scholar was done and relevant literature was compiled for the review. The literature was reviewed to find the preferred technique of CPN by different investigators and differences in the outcome and/or complications and side effects. Multiple techniques of CPN such as classic retrocrural approach, antecrural approach, transaortic approach, anterior approach, and transdiscal approach have been used by different researchers. Effective pain relief and improved quality of life (QOL) have been reported to be achieved by all the approaches. Unilateral transaortic approach has been found to be associated with less morbidity owing to single needle and with a lesser volume of neurolytic agent used. The most common imaging method used by a large number of researchers is c-arm fluoroscope, though few authors have recommended computed tomography scan-guided CPN, especially in cases with distorted anatomy due to disease spread or metastasis. This review has focused only on CPN by the pain physicians. Other techniques such as endoscopic ultrasound technique by gastroenterologists and splanchnic radio-frequency ablation have not been compared. CPN is an effective technique for pain control and improved QOL in upper abdominal malignant pain. The selection of approach is largely dependent on the pain physician's choice and does not show the difference in the outcomes.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Care of Renal Patients
Authors: Sharma Gaurav Shekhar , Lata Hem , Bhowmik Dipankar , Sharma Suresh K
Published: April 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has adversely affected the care of patients with renal diseases, who are at a high risk of contracting COVID-19, in several ways. We searched the search engines such as PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar for articles published from March 2020 to October 2020. Data pertaining to the impact of COVID-19 on renal patients and the referral system were extracted from the various published narrative reviews and the guidelines of the professional organisations. In this review, we have tried to focus on all these aspects, including various challenges faced in delivering routine hospital services and of providing renal replacement therapy. We believe that this unprecedented and globally alarming situation has, by now, taught us enough, so that we can be more careful in executing optimal care of renal patients, should similar situation arise in future.
Viral Hepatitis C Infection Among Injecting Drug Users and their Partners in Manipur
Authors: Karam Romeo Singh , Singh Thangjam Dhabali , Akoijam Brogen Singh , Rajkumar Nalinikanta
Published: April 2021

Background:

People who inject drugs (PWID) are the key population at risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. In this study, HCV infection among PWID was carried out with the objective of determining the proportion of hepatitis C antibody-positive individuals in the state of Manipur, in Manipur, a small northeastern state of India.

Aims:

The present study aims to establish prevalence data of hepatitis C antibody among population in the state of Manipur, India. The study was conducted from July to December 2018 in the nine districts of state of Manipur. Blood samples were collected for HCV testing; along with this, we conducted awareness sessions during camps. Pre- and post-tests were done using a questionnaire. A total of 2219 participants are PWID and their spouses were enrolled.

Results:

Male: female ratio was 1885/334. Majorities of the participants were from 25 to 44 years of age. Forty-three per cent were positive in the screening. Ukhrul district has the highest HCV positive closely followed by Churachandpur district. About 13.5% of participants with known human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status were positive of HCV.

Conclusions:

HCV infection in PWID in Manipur, Northeast of India, is 43%, most of them are young and co-infection with HIV is seen in 13.5%.
Fast Fourier Transform Transformed, Electroencephalography Correlates of Introduction to Meditation and Transcendence Shift in Novices
Authors: Singh Yogesh , Sharma Ratna
Published: April 2021

Objectives:

The objectives of the study were to explore the fast Fourier transformation (FFT)-transformed individual alpha frequency (IAF)-based electroencephalographic (EEG) correlates of introduction to a special type of meditation, and transcendence shift in meditation novices.

Methods:

The study was conducted on 34 healthy male student volunteers. The participants were introduced to 15 min of a special type of meditation under the supervision of an expert. EEG was recorded from 19 scalp locations according to the 10–20 international system of electrode placement. To overcome the problems of the fixed band system, IAF-based band method was adopted. The outcome measures were FFT-transformed absolute powers (APs) in the six bands at 19 electrode positions. These outcome measures were analysed for early, middle and late phases (5 min each) of the meditation and compared with the relaxed eyes-closed mental state as the control in the same participants.

Results:

The special type of meditation showed a trend of decrease in AP over increasing electrodes' positions in theta, lower 1 alpha and lower 2 alpha with progression. However, power in the beta band was consistently decreased, while upper alpha (except in C3) and gamma-band power remained unchanged throughout the meditation.

Conclusions:

Introduction to a special type of meditation has distinct EEG correlates and resembles a deeper relaxed focus of attention and partial transcendence as compared to the simple relaxation with eyes-closed-state in the novice's participants.
О формуле следов для обыкновенных дифференциальных операторов высокого порядка
Authors: Gal'kovskii Egor Denisovich , Nazarov Alexander Il'ich
Published: April 2021

Получена формула следа первого порядка для дифференциального оператора высокого порядка на отрезке в случае, когда возмущающий оператор является оператором умножения на конечный комплекснозначный заряд. Для операторов четных порядков $n\geqslant4$ результат содержит слагаемое нового типа, не известное ранее.
Библиография: 15 названий.
Occurrence of Anti-Rickettsia spp. Antibodies in Hospitalized Patients with Undifferentiated Febrile Illness in the Southern Region of Kazakhstan
Authors: Turebekov Nurkeldi , Abdiyeva Karlygash , Yegemberdiyeva Ravilya , Kuznetsov Andrey , Dmitrovskiy Andrey , Yeraliyeva Lyazzat , Shapiyeva Zhanna , Batyrbayeva Dinara , Tukhanova Nur , Shin Anna , Musralina Lyazzat , Hoelscher Michael , Froeschl Guenter , Dobler Gerhard , Freimueller Klaus , Wagner Edith , Frey Stefan , Essbauer Sandra
Published: April 2021

Undifferentiated febrile illness still represents a demanding medical problem all over the world, but primarily in low- and middle-income countries. Scientific and clinical investigations related to undifferentiated febrile illness and rickettsial diseases in Kazakhstan are lacking. This study reflects the investigation of antibodies against spotted fever group (SFG) and typhus group (TG) rickettsiae in patients with undifferentiated febrile illness in the southern region of Kazakhstan (Almaty and Kyzylorda oblasts). Paired serum samples were gathered from 13 hospitals in these two oblasts and explored for the presence of IgM and IgG antibodies against typhus group and IgG antibodies against spotted fever group rickettsiae using ELISA. Patient’s questionnaires were statistically analyzed. In total, 802 inpatients from Almaty (N = 9) and Kyzylorda (N = 4) hospitals were included in this research. Based on ELISA results, 250 patients out of 802 (31.2%) from both oblasts had IgG antibodies against SFG rickettsiae. Results from 11 (1.4%) patients indicated acute infection with tick-borne rickettsiosis. Regarding TG rickettsiae (R. typhi), a past infection was detected in 248 (30.9%) febrile patients and acute infection in 22 (2.7%) patients in the two selected oblasts. The data indicated that SFG and TG rickettsioses are present in Kazakhstan. Kazakh physicians should be aware of these emerging diseases in both investigated oblasts because the occurrence of these diseases is not suspected during day-to-day clinical practice. The identification of rickettsial pathogens and implementation of modern laboratory methods for the diagnostics of rickettsioses are in need throughout Kazakhstan.
Inaccuracies in Google’s Health-Based Knowledge Panels Perpetuate Widespread Misconceptions Involving Infectious Disease Transmission
Authors: Haddow Andrew D. , Clarke Sarah C.
Published: April 2021

Google health-based Knowledge Panels were designed to provide users with high-quality basic medical information on a specific condition. However, any errors contained within Knowledge Panels could result in the widespread distribution of inaccurate health information. We explored the potential for inaccuracies to exist within Google’s health-based Knowledge Panels by focusing on a single well-studied pathogen, Ebola virus (EBOV). We then evaluated the accuracy of those transmission modes listed within the Google Ebola Knowledge Panel and investigated the pervasiveness of any misconceptions associated with inaccurate transmission modes among persons living in Africa. We found that the Google Ebola Knowledge Panel inaccurately listed insect bites or stings as modes of EBOV transmission. Our scoping review found 27 articles and reports that revealed that 9 of 11 countries where misconceptions regarding insect transmission of EBOV have been reported are locations of current (i.e., Democratic Republic of Congo and Guinea) or previous EBOV outbreaks. We found reports that up to 26.6% (155/582) of study respondents in Democratic Republic of Congo believed mosquito bite avoidance would prevent EBOV; in other locations of previous large-scale EBOV outbreaks (e.g., Guinea), up to 61.0% (304/498) of respondents believed insects were involved in EBOV transmission. Our findings highlight the potential for errors to exist within the health information contained in Google’s health-based Knowledge Panels. Such errors could perpetuate misconceptions or misinformation, leading to mistrust of health workers and aid agencies and in turn undermining public health education or outbreak response efforts.
Factors Influencing Road Traffic Delay: Drivers’ Perspectives And Loss Of Man-Hour Along Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Bako A.I. , Agunloye O.O.
Published: April 2021

This study examined drivers’ perception of road traffic delay attributes and factors influencing road traffic delay with a view to assessing loss of man hours along Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway. This view translated to policy statements that can tremendously reduce the road traffic delay in the study area. Primary data were collected through questionnaire administration, traffic volume survey and direct field observation while the secondary data were obtained from past relevant journals, textbooks among others. The sample frame evolved from an average of 3 day traffic volume survey, which translated into 17,647 drivers between 7 am – 7 pm in the study area. The sample size was 117 (0.007%) as the purposive sampling technique was adopted. The frequency tables and likert scale outputs were adopted for data analyses.  The study found that most drivers along this road were majorly (75.2%) young educated working adults while the trips made accounted for the concentration of work and after-work trips along this road. The study revealed that traffic delay along the road was largely due to indiscreet use of bus-stops, bad roads condition, drivers’ recklessness with DAI values of 4.70, 3.77 and 3.41 respectively using a 5 Point Likert Scale. This study established that a total of 2,920 ‘man-hours’ was lost annually on this road as the daily accumulated estimate for man hour loss was estimated as 8 hours per day. The strict enforcement and monitoring of proper usage of bus-stops and prompt rehabilitation of bad roads are needed among other recommendations.Key Words: Road Traffic Delay, Drivers’ Perspectives, Man-Hour Loss
Determining Factors For Housing Affordability In Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Akinyode Babatunde Femi
Published: April 2021

Housing affordability has been a concern in developed and developing world because of its role in man’s welfare and productivity. This study aims at investigating determining factors for housing affordability in Ibadan urban centres. Questionnaire was developed based on consumers’ evaluation on variables identified from the literatures. The administration of questionnaire was carried out among 494 respondents within five local government areas that constitute Ibadan metropolis. The data collected was analysed statistically using statistical softwares SPSS version 22. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) technique was applied to define the determining factors for housing affordability. The result through EFA revealed house rents, housing preference, housing satisfaction, land price and government intervention as the determining factors for housing affordability. The multiple regression analysis confirmed land price, housing satisfaction and housing preference to be the most significant factors. The study encouraged and suggested urgent steps to be taken for the improvement and transformation in the Nigerian housing delivery to achieve affordable housing in Ibadan urban centres.Key Words: Determining factor, Housing, Housing affordability, Ibadan, Urban centres
Trends in monthly rainfall and temperature in Rachuonyo North Sub-County, Kenya
Authors: Opere E , Juma S.G. , Sitienei B
Published: April 2021

We analyse Climate Research Unit (CRU) Precipitation (1961-2014) and Temperature (1985-2014) data trends over Rachuonyo North Sub County at 50×50 km resolution. Time series and correlation analysis of the data was carried out. Temporal characteristics of temperature and Rainfall were determined. One sample t-tailed test of hypothesis was carried out. An increasing trend in temperature is observed over the years while a decreasing trend in precipitation is observed by the year 2014. The trends exhibited a cyclic and Seasonal pattern with Increasing Variability. Descriptive statistics revealed Rainfall and Temperature Means of 119.8 mm and 19.6 °C respectively. The results of one tailed t-test revealed that the change in Rainfall and temperature patterns over the area of study were not statistically significant.Keywords: Climate Change, Temperature, Rainfall Trend, Rachuonyo, Kenya
Application of Kingdon and Hall Models to Review Environmental Sanitation and Health Promotion Policy in Ethiopia: A Professional Perspective as a Review
Authors: Doyore Agide Feleke , Garmaroudi Gholamreza , Sadeghi Roya , Shakibazadeh Elham , Yaseri Mehdi , Koricha Zewdie Birhanu , Tefese Tadesse Bekele
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND: In the world, many countries, including Ethiopia, are framing policies to roll back the problem of the sanitation. For this, the Kingdon and Hall models are the two distinct models formed to articulate the policy agenda to the health problem. The Kingdon model includes problem, policy and politics streams whereas the Hall model includes legitimacy, feasibility and support of the health policies. Therefore, this review aims to integrate the two models with diseases prevention and health promotion policies of Ethiopia.METHODS: We used the existing frameworks of the models as a guiding principle. Then, we applied the frameworks of the two models as an important consideration to interlink policy agenda to a given health problem. We also described the existing scientific literature about the sanitation and health promotion. After thoroughly reviewing, possible policy inputs and country setups were included with a brief discussion by comparing different kinds of literatures.RESULTS: The two models are recognized as an opportunity to get an essential sanitation policy. The government settled and has closed links to the new innovation as an emerged discourse. Therefore, the two model streams came together for setting sanitation problem on the policy agenda. The technical feasibility, public acceptability and congruence with existing values were all judged to be favorable.CONCLUSION: The integration of policies within the policy frameworks has very important outputs in various countries. Therefore, the field specialists should figure out the problem of policy integration through policy evaluation researches.
Leech in the Rectum Causing Lower GI Bleeding in a Four Years Old Child: A Case Report
Authors: Tsion Tilahun  , Hawi Babu  , Melkamu Berhane
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND፡ Leeches belong to a group of annelids of the class Hirudinea which are blood feeding ecto-parasites of humans, wild animals and domesticated animals. A leech can suck out as much blood as ten times its own weight. Leech can occur at different sites in humans commonly in the eyes, nasopharynx, larynx, urethra, and vagina and rarely in the rectum.CASE DETAILS: This is a four years old male child who presented with painless, bright red rectal bleeding for two weeks. Heamatocrit was 9.2%. Leech was removed from the rectum by letting the child sit on a bucket of water. The patient was transfused, followed for 24 hours and discharged with iron sulphate syrup.CONCLUSION: Leech infestation should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a child presenting with hematochezia.
Pengaruh Inflasi, Suku Bunga BI, Tingkat Bagi Hasil dan Office Channeling terhadap Total Aset Perbankan Syariah di Indonesia
Authors: Purnamasari Try Ratna , Imamah Nurul , Wahyuni Susi Tri
Published: April 2021

Pertumbuhan perbankan syariah di Indonesia masih kalah bersaing dengan perbankan konvensional. Hal ini dapat diukur melalui total aset perbankan syariah yang jauh tertinggal dibandingkan dengan perbankan konvensional. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh inflasi, suku bunga BI, tingkat bagi hasil dan office channeling terhadap total aset perbankan syariah yang ada di Indonesia. Teknik analisis yang digunakan adalah regresi linier berganda dengan menggunakan data sekunder yang dipublikasi website resmi Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (OJK) dan Bank Indonesia (BI) periode Agustus 2016 – Juli 2019. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa inflasi, suku bunga BI dan tingkat bagi hasil secara parsial berpengaruh signifikan terhadap total aset, sedangkan office channeling tidak berpengaruh signifikan. Secara simultan variabel bebas (inflasi, suku bunga BI, tingkat bagi hasil dan office channeling) berpengaruh signifikan terhadap total aset. Dari keempat variabel, yang berpengaruh dominan terhadap total aset adalah tingkat bagi hasil dengan nilai koefisien regresi beta sebesar 1,167 atau pengaruhnya terhadap total aset sebesar116,7%.
Entangled Migrations The Coloniality of Migration and Creolizing Conviviality
Authors: Gutiérrez Rodríguez Encarnación
Published: April 2021

This Working Paper discusses entangled migrations as territorially and temporally entangled onto-epistemological phenomena. As a theoretical-analytical framework, it addresses the material, epistemological and ethical premises of spatial-temporal entanglements and relationality in the understanding of migration as a modern colonial phenomenon. Entangled migrations acknowledges that local migratory movements mirror global migrations in complex ways, engaging with the analysis of historical connections, territorial entrenchments, cultural confluences, and overlapping antagonistic relations across nations and continents. Drawing on European immigration to the American continent and specifically to Brazil in the 19th century, this argument is tentatively developed by discussing two opposite moments of entangled migrations, the coloniality of migration and creolizing conviviality. To do this, the paper engages first with the theoretical framework of spatial-temporal entanglements. Second, it approaches the coloniality of migration. Finally, it briefly discusses creolizing conviviality.
PENINGKATAN MINAT BELAJAR PROSES INDUSTRI KIMIA MELALUI PENDEKATAN CONTEXTUAL TEACHING AND LEARNING (CTL) DENGAN MODEL PASA (PECTURE AND STUDENT ACTIVE)
Authors: Yulianti Mrs.
Published: April 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan minat siswa belajar proses industri kimia melalui penerapan metode Pendekatan Contextual Teaching And Learning (CTL) dengan Model PASA (Pictures And Student Active) dan meningkatkan prestasi belajar siswa. Penelitian dilakukan melalui dua siklus. Standar kompetensi yang dilaksanakan adalah Membaca Diagram Alir Proses Sederhana. Pada siklus pertama kompetensi dasar yang diberikan adalah membaca diagram alir proses industri pulp dan kertas, sedangkan pada siklus kedua kompetensi dasar yang diajarkan membaca diagram alir proses industri pupuk. Pada setiap siklus dilakukan diskusi dan tugas kelompok, penyelesaian tabel dan diberikan tes akhir berupa ulangan harian. Pada akhir siklus selalu dilakukan pengisian kuesioner minat dan motivasi belajar siswa setelah mengikuti proses pembelajaran dengan penerapan metode Pendekatan Contextual Teaching And Learning (CTL) dengan Model PASA (Pictures And Student Active). Pada siklus pertama kualifikasi minat adalah baik dengan nilai 3,74 dan meningkat menjadi kualifikasi sangat baik dengan nilai 4,19 pada siklus kedua. Dengan meningkatnya minat siswa, motivasi siswa juga meningkat dari baik dengan nilai 3,6 pada siklus pertama menjadi baik dengan nilai 3,82 pada siklus kedua. Hasil belajar juga menunjukan peningkatan dari rata-rata kelas 82,95 pada siklus pertama menjadi 83,93 pada siklus kedua. Begitu juga dengan nilai akhir rata-rata kelas meningkat dari 84,39 pada siklus pertama menjadi 85,24 pada siklus kedua. Dengan demikian penerapan metode Pendekatan Contextual Teaching And Learning (CTL) dengan Model PASA (Pictures And Student Active) dalam pembelajaran proses industri kimia telah berhasil meningkatkan minat dan motivasi belajar siswa, sekaligus prestasi belajar siswa.