bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Striped Jets in Post–Neutron Star Merger Systems
Authors: Kaufman Emma , Christie I. M. , Lalakos A. , Tchekhovskoy A. , Giannios D.
Published: August 2023

Models invoking magnetic reconnection as the particle acceleration mechanism within relativistic jets often adopt a gradual energy dissipation profile within the jet. However, such a profile has yet to be reproduced in first-principles simulations. Here we perform a suite of 3D general relativistic magnetohydrodynamic simulations of post–neutron star merger disks with an initially purely toroidal magnetic field. We explore the variations in both the microphysics (e.g., nuclear recombination, neutrino emission) and system parameters (e.g, disk mass). In all of our simulations, we find the formation of magnetically striped jets. The stripes result from the reversals in the poloidal magnetic flux polarity generated in the accretion disk. The simulations display large variations in the distributions of stripe duration, τ, and power, 〈P
Φ〉. We find that more massive disks produce more powerful stripes, the most powerful of which reaches 〈P
Φ〉 ∼ 1049 erg s−1 at τ ∼ 20 ms. The power and variability that result from the magnetic reconnection of the stripes agree with those inferred in short-duration gamma-ray bursts. We find that the dissipation profile of the cumulative energy is roughly a power law in both radial distance, z, and τ, with a slope in the range of ∼1.7–3; more massive disks display larger slopes.
The Solar Origin of an In Situ Type III Radio Burst Event
Authors: Wang 王 Meiqi 美祺 , Chen 陈 Bin 彬 , Yu 余 Sijie 思捷 , Gary Dale E. , Lee Jeongwoo , Wang Haimin , Cohen Christina
Published: August 2023

Solar type III radio bursts are generated by beams of energetic electrons that travel along open magnetic field lines through the corona and into interplanetary space. However, understanding the source of these electrons and how they escape into interplanetary space remains an outstanding topic. Here we report multi-instrument, multiperspective observations of an interplanetary type III radio burst event shortly after the second perihelion of the Parker Solar Probe (PSP). This event was associated with a solar jet that produced an impulsive microwave burst event recorded by the Expanded Owens Valley Solar Array. The type III burst event also coincided with the detection of enhanced in situ energetic electrons recorded by both PSP at 0.37 au and WIND at 1 au, which were located very closely on the Parker spiral longitudinally. The close timing association and magnetic connectivity suggest that the in situ energetic electrons originated from the jet’s magnetic reconnection region. Intriguingly, microwave imaging spectroscopy results suggest that the escaping energetic electrons were injected into a large opening angle of about 90°, which is at least nine times broader than the apparent width of the jet spire. Our findings provide an interpretation for the previously reported, longitudinally broad spatial distribution of flare locations associated with prompt energetic electron events and have important implications for understanding the origin and distribution of energetic electrons in interplanetary space.
Illustrated key to the European genera of Opiinae (Hymenoptera, Braconidae), with the description of two new Palaearctic genera and two new species
Authors: van Achterberg Cornelis
Published: August 2023

An illustrated key to the European genera of the subfamily Opiinae (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) is presented and two new genera are described and illustrated: Cavopiusgen. nov. (type species: Opius (Agnopius) daghoides Zaykov & Fischer, 1983) from West and East Palaearctic regions and Pseudosteresgen. nov. (type species: Biosteres adanaensis Fischer & Beyarslan, 2005) from West Palaearctic region. Two new species are described and illustrated: Cephaloplites gijswijtisp. nov. from Greece and Cavopius depressoriussp. nov. from S. Korea. Opius (Hypocynodus) kilisanus Fischer & Beyarslan, 2005 is a new synonym of Cephaloplites mocsaryi Szépligeti, 1897. The following new combinations are proposed: Cavopius daghestanicus (Telenga, 1950), comb. nov., C. daghoides (Zaykov & Fischer, 1983), comb. nov., Pseudosteres adanaensis (Fischer & Beyarslan, 2005), comb. nov., P. arenaceus (Jakimavičius, 1986), comb. nov., P. christenseni (Papp, 1982), comb. nov., P. pseudarenaceus (Fischer & Beyarslan, 2005), comb. nov., and P. riphaeus (Tobias, 1986), comb. nov. Keys to species are provided for Cavopiusgen. nov., Cephaloplites Szépligeti, 1897, and Pseudosteresgen. nov.
A study of doped polycrystalline diamond plates by non-destructive methods
Authors: Azoulay Itsh'ak , Klonsky Ory , Gelbstein Yaniv , Beker Peter
Published: August 2023

Diamond offers great promise as a solution to some of the limitations of current state of the art semiconductor technologies. Yet, significant challenges associated with the doping process remain a primary impediment to the development of diamond-based electronic devices. At present, it is unclear which simple measurement methods are needed to evaluate the diamond doping process. We propose non-destructive inspection methods for evaluating the polycrystalline chemical vapor deposition (CVD) diamond doping process, by analyzing the wettability, optical absorption, photoluminescence emission spectroscopy and atmospheric scanning electron microscope (Air-SEM) tests. Our results show that the properties of the measured samples are distinctly changed due to the presence of the doping elements, thereby confirming the effectiveness of these non-destructive methods for the diamond production industry.
A new distributional approach: estimation, Monte Carlo simulation and applications to the biomedical data sets
Authors: Kamal Mustafa , Alsolmi Meshayil M. , Nayabuddin  , Al Mutairi Aned , Hussam Eslam , Mustafa Manahil SidAhmed , Nassr Said G.
Published: August 2023

This paper introduces the generalized exponential-$ U $ family of distributions as a novel methodological approach to enhance the distributional flexibility of existing classical and modified distributions. The new family is derived by combining the T-$ X $ family method with the exponential model. The paper presents the generalized exponential-Weibull model, an updated version of the Weibull model. Estimators and heavy-tailed characteristics of the proposed method are derived. The new model is applied to three healthcare data sets, including COVID-19 patient survival times and mortality rate data set from Mexico and Holland. The proposed model outperforms other models in terms of analyzing healthcare data sets by evaluating the best model selection measures. The findings suggest that the proposed model holds promise for broader utilization in the area of predicting and modeling healthcare phenomena.
Slovenska mladinska avtobiografska proza
Authors: Zorman Barbara
Published: August 2023

V prispevku obravnavam slovensko avtobiografsko mladinsko prozo, in sicer kot specifičen podžanr avtobiografske proze, ki tematizira otroštvo oziroma odraščanje in je naslovljen (ali ga literarni posredniki naslavljajo) na mladega bralca. Ta vrsta proze se je oblikovala skupaj z uveljavitvijo modela pisatelja kot estetsko avtonomnega umetnika, se najbolj razmahnila v drugi polovici dvajsetega stoletja, v sodobni mladinski prozi pa je skoraj ni zaznati. V prispevku primerjam pet primerov mladinske avtobiografske proze, Moje življenje Ivana Cankarja, Solzice Prežihovega Voranca, Pridi, mili moj Ariel Mire Mihelič, Otroštvo Franja Frančiča in Pink Janje Vidmar, v katerih analiziram utrjevanje oziroma preseganje značilnosti, ki jih je določil prototip tega podžanra. V Cankarjevi in Prežihovi pripovedi izpostavljam fragmentiranost in liričnost pripovedi, introspekcijo kot temeljni cilj pripovedi, specifično dvojnost kronotopa, ki je pogojena s fokalizatorjevim odnosom do kronotopa, in lik matere kot poosebitev osrednjih vrednot pripovedovalca. Mira Mihelič omenjeni vzorec prelomi z vpeljavo samosvoje dekliške protagonistke in njene odsotne mame, Frančič pa z vpeljavo motivov disfunkcionalne družine in prikrito kritiko oblasti. Besedilo Janje Vidmar se že umešča v nov model literarnega sistema, ki ga zaznamuje diktat tržne uspešnosti knjige.
Computer Modeling of Inhomogeneous Media Using the Abaqus Software Package
Authors: Pasternak Viktoriya , Ruban Artem , Zolotova Nina , Suprun Oleg
Published: August 2023

The article describes in detail the process of modelling an inhomogeneous environment. It should be noted that the modelling of a rectangular plate is justified by the Kirchhoff – Love methods. A special feature of this simulation with the intervention of the Abaqus software package was the setting of different steps at different points in time. We also constructed H-adaptive schemes of finite element methods and their triangulation with different steps and with pre-guaranteed accuracy. When adapting the grid at the places of the greatest errors, a local thickening of the Triangle grid was observed, which ultimately determines that the structure of the desired solutions contains features in the edges of the vertices of the fixed edge. We also found that the proximity to linear growth of the number of nodes and finite elements in the initial stages of adaptation slows down their growth in the final stages. It should also be noted that the proposed H-adaptive schemes of ITU using the Abaqus software package with pre-guaranteed accuracy of calculating approximations showed satisfactory results, since they obtained a final deviation error of 2%. Also, a detailed description of the step-by-step adaptation results allowed us to generate the reliability of the proposed schemes with different steps.
The Environmental Impacts of Unauthorized Activities. A Case of the Maragala Mountain Range Environment protection area in Sri Lanka
Authors: Herath H. M. S. S. , Patabandi K. P. L. N.
Published: August 2023

Unauthorized activities are generally known as illegal activities. Unauthorized activities mostly take place in mountainous ranges. This system originally belonged to the ago-farming system and falls within the larger scope of sustainable agriculture. In recent decades, however, considerable literature has shown that chena cultivation and the people who use it neglect their environmental responsibilities. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to systematically review and identify the environmental impact of unauthorized activities in the mountain range. The study was conducted in the Maragala mountain range EPA using 120 families focusing on 2 Gramaniladari divisions. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative data analysis and content analysis was used for qualitative data analysis. With Results revealed that currently, people cut down 76% of trees on the premises ignoring the principles of chena cultivation and trade. Mechanical saws have been used for this purpose. 62% of the land is encroached land and also, and they doing agricultural activities without permission. More than 80% of the sample families have removed all trees in their fields during the last five years. Forest fires rapidly increased last five years as a result of chena cultivation that destroyed 500 acres of forest area. The main reason for all these activities is the settlements located in the upper part of the Maragala mountain range EPA. The study revealed that the patterns of agricultural land use in traditional villages have changed significantly over the past few decades.
A new series on diagnostic echographic cases and living brief reviews: a potentially useful tool for clinicians edited by FADOI
Authors: Mumoli Nicola , Zuretti Francesca , Mastroiacovo Daniela , Dentali Francesco Dentali , Cipollini Francesco
Published: August 2023

Sonography – similar to what happened almost two centuries ago with the introduction of stethoscopes – has completely changed patients’ clinical management in Internal Medicine. The availability of performant, sometimes even small-sized and cost-effective machines, has allowed doctors in Internal-Medicine units to perform bedside-ultrasound examinations alongside regular clinical ones. [...]
Factors Affecting the Recovery of Renal Function in Geriatric Multiple Myeloma Patients after Hemodialysis
Authors: Ahmed Rabab M. , El Husseiny Noha M.
Published: August 2023

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a disease of the elderly. Renal failure is a common complication in MM. In this study, we evaluated clinical and laboratory parameters that might contribute to the recovery of renal function in geriatric MM patients. Twenty-five geriatric patients aged >65 years were retrospectively compared with 20 patients aged <65 years with a diagnosis of MM and renal failure between October 2016 and October 2019. Variables that might be associated with the discontinuation of dialysis in these patients were examined in the 6 months of follow-up after the diagnosis. Among the geriatric patients aged >65 years, 100% remained on regular hemodialysis (HD) at the end of the follow-up period in contrast to eight patients (40%) in the younger group, and this was statistically significant P = 0.001. We have noticed that geriatric patients who required maintenance HD had lower mean hemoglobin concentrations (P = 0.02), and higher mean serum calcium (P = 0.03). Other factors were statistically insignificant. Our study showed that age of >65 years, hemoglobin levels, and serum calcium were significantly different between the group who recovered from renal failure and those who required a continuation of HD, but none was an independent prognostic factor for predicting the probability of recovery from severe renal failure and discontinuation of HD in both groups studied.
Treatment and Outcomes of Coronavirus Disease 2019 in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Single-center Experience
Authors: Bansal Shyam Bihari , Babras Mayur , Rana Abhyuday , Gadde Ashwini , Jha Pranaw , Jain Manish , Yadav Dinesh , Bansal Dinesh , Sethi Sidharth , Kher Vijay
Published: August 2023

There is a paucity of literature about the outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 after kidney transplantation in developing countries (e.g., India). We included 50 consecutive kidney transplant recipients diagnosed with COVID-19 from August 2020 to December 2020. The mean age was 50 ± 10 years, and the median interval since transplantation was 34 months. Fever (100%), cough (40%), and shortness of breath (32%) were the most common presenting symptoms. Mild disease occurred in 26 patients, moderate disease in 12, and severe disease in 12. All 24 patients with moderate-to-severe disease received remdesivir and high-dose steroids, whereas 17 of 26 patients with mild disease received favipiravir. Convalescent plasma was given to 13 of 24 patients with moderate-to-severe disease, and 7 of 12 patients with severe disease received tocilizumab. The median hospital stay was 7 days (interquartile range: 4–20 days). Of 30 patients who developed acute kidney injury, seven required renal replacement therapy and eight required mechanical ventilation. Eight patients with severe disease died. An age of >50 years, coughing, shortness of breath at presentation, C-reactive protein levels of >100 mg/dL, D-dimer levels of >1 mg/L, computed tomography severity scores of >20 at presentation, supplemental oxygen, and mechanical ventilation correlated significantly with mortality in our cohort. COVID-19 infection in kidney transplant recipients had a high mortality rate; however, remdesivir and high-dose steroids were associated with better outcomes compared with earlier studies.
Male Breast Cancer – Experience at a Tertiary Care Center in India
Authors: Dwivedi Surjeet , Lohia Nishant , Nair Lakshmi Geetha , Thakur Nikhil , Kumar Surender , Saha Manish , Anto A. K. Ajin
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Male breast cancer (MBC) is a rare affliction accounting for approximately 1% of all breast cancer cases. The treatment guidelines of MBC mirror those of female breast cancer which are derived mostly from data obtained from studies involving female breast cancer patients. Data on MBC are mostly limited to single-institution studies due to the rarity of the disease. This study was undertaken to assess retrospectively the pattern of demographic and clinicopathological factors in MBC treated at our tertiary care center.

Materials and Methods:

Records of MBC treated between January 2019 and December 2020 in our institute were analyzed and data regarding the demographic and clinicopathological profile of patients was recorded. Observational retrospective single centre study.

Results:

A total of 12 patients of MBC were encountered with a median age of 58 years. The painless lump was the most common presentation with the retro-areolar region being the most commonly involved site. The most common American Joint Committee on Cancer anatomical stage group observed was Stage II with the left breast being involved more than the right. None of the patients had a family history of breast carcinoma. Out of the 12 patients, 10 patients were positive for hormonal receptors, whereas only two patients showed human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 amplifications.

Conclusion:

MBC is a rare disease. Further multi-institutional studies involving a larger number of patients are needed for a better understanding and formulation of gender-specific guidelines for the effective management of MBC.
Knowledge, Attitude, and the Practice Study among the Kshar Sutra Practicing Surgeons
Authors: Javed Danish , Dixit Ashish Kumar , Tarique Barkati Md. , Dhama Yudhveer , Chaudhary Praveen
Published: August 2023

Background:

Kshar Sutra treatment in cases of fistula is quite common in India. We conducted a cross-sectional study among Kshar Sutra practitioners to find out knowledge, attitude, and practicing approach in the present scenario. A total of 192 participants completed this online survey through a self-administered questionnaire.

Materials and Methods:

Two experts assessed the content and face validity of the questionnaire. The tool was pilot-tested to validate the questionnaire and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was calculated to assess the acceptable internal consistency before the data collection. A total of 32 questions in three domains, knowledge (6), attitude (12), and practice (14), respectively, were asked to participants. We performed linear and logistic regressions to find out the relations with respect to independent variables such as experience, nature of job, qualification, and number of surgeries performed every year by participants.

Results:

Knowledge was found positively related to qualification and experience significantly. Less use of analgesics and antibiotics was positively related to qualification but negatively related to experience. More cosmetic scar in postoperative cases was positively supported by more cases performing surgeons but negatively by private practitioners. Less time required for surgery was positively related to more experienced surgeons. The use of self-prepared Kshar Sutra was seen 2–6 times popular among more qualified and experienced private practitioners. Most of the surgeons were in favor of investigations and indoor admission before surgery.

Conclusion:

Re-orientation programs are required to conduct for Kshar Sutra surgeons and the availability of commercial Kshar Sutras is extremely demanding to fill the gap in current practice.
Vitamin D Supplementation as a Probable Measure to Alleviate Musculoskeletal Pain, Prevent Infection and Enhance Physical Ability among Indian Adults from Urban Low Socioeconomic Backgrounds: An Observational Study
Authors: Mahtani Renu , Bora Pranita , Wikhe Anjali , Garcha Sonia , Mahtani Raunak , Kodali Prakash Babu , Nair Pradeep M. K.
Published: August 2023

Problem Considered:

Vitamin D deficiency is a global concern that needs significant attention. This observational study reports the impact of Vitamin D supplementation on general body aches, frequency of infection, and energy levels among Indian adults.

Methods:

This study included 508 adults aged 19–89 years old from low socioeconomic backgrounds who were given Vitamin D supplements for 4 months. The severity of musculoskeletal symptoms, frequency of infection or its symptoms, and perceived energy levels of the participants before and after the exposure were measured using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed descriptively for the frequencies, and a Chi-square and Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to analyze the impact of Vitamin D on the variables studied.

Results:

The majority of the participants were female (82.3%) and were never exposed to Vitamin D supplementation earlier (84%). Nearly 65% of the participants were either homemakers, students, unemployed, or retired. Vitamin D supplementation was significantly associated with the reduction in back pain (P < 0.001), fatigue and body pain (P < 0.001), knee pain (P < 0.001), and pain in the hands and legs (P < 0.001). Vitamin D also significantly reduced the frequency of infection and/or its symptoms (P < 0.001) and improved physical work capacity (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Vitamin D supplementation for urban low socioeconomic groups may be beneficial as it can reduce the pain, frequency of infection and improve general well-being. The limitations of this study, such as the lack of a nonexposed group and data on the Vitamin D status of the participants, warrant consideration in future studies.
A Cross-sectional Study: Assessment of Optimal Breastfeeding Practices among Tribal Women Having Children 0–23 Months of Age Residing in an Island of Sundarbans, West Bengal
Authors: Reshma A. S. , Bandyopadhyay Lina , Paul Bobby , Jaiswal Aditi Ajit , Das Arpita , Pal Niladri Sekhar
Published: August 2023

Context:

Tribal population is vulnerable to all inequities of the society and less penetrated by the service providers. Breastfeeding, 0–23 months old children is important for their development and is boon for their health.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to estimate the prevalence of optimal breastfeeding practices (OBFs) and elicit its predictors.

Materials and Methods:

This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the tribal area of Sunderbans, West Bengal, among mothers having children 0–23 months of age, from May 2021 to September 2021. Participants were selected by the cluster sampling technique. OBFs were assessed by initiation of breastfeeding within 1 h of birth, exclusive breastfeeding till 6 months of age, and continuation of breastfeeding along with complementary feed till 23 months of age. Iowa Infant Feeding Attitude Scale was administered to assess attitude toward breastfeeding. Statistical analysis was done using multivariable logistic regression.

Results:

The mean age of the study participants was 24.8 ± 4.1 years. Early initiation of breastfeeding was done by 76.5% of the participants, but continuation beyond 6 months of age by 70.9%. OBFs were shown by 25.5% of the participants, which has a significant association with the knowledge about the breastfeeding practices (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.14; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.52–3.01) and maternal education (aOR: 3.78; 95% CI: 1.17–12.17).

Conclusion:

This study showed that only one-fourth of the participants have OBFs. This situation must be addressed with imparting proper knowledge about the importance of breastfeeding. Support group of women in the community should be formulated to aid mothers in continuation of breastfeeding.
Carcinoma buccal mucosa treated with definitive hypofractionated accelerated radiotherapy: a retrospective analysis of treatment outcomes
Authors: Babu Geethu , Ravikumar Rejnish , Rafi Malu , Sharafuddin Zuzaki , Shankar S Arun , George Preethi Sara , Kainickal Cessal Thommachan , Kunnambath Ramadas
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Oral cancer is a major public health concern in India. Both conventional and altered fractionation radiotherapy schedules have been used in curative treatment of oral cancer. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the clinical profile and treatment outcomes of patients with carcinoma buccal mucosa who underwent treatment with definitive hypofractionated accelerated radiotherapy.

Methods:

A total of 517 patients treated from January 2011 to December 2016 were eligible for the analysis. All patients were treated with definitive hypofractionated accelerated radiotherapy schedule of 5,250 cGy in 15 fractions over 3 weeks. Survival estimates were generated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results:

At a median follow-up of 77.4 months, 473 (91.5%) patients attained complete remission with radiation therapy. The 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 69% and 80.5%, respectively. The 5-year OS for stage I, II, III and IVa tumours was 80.3%, 84.4%, 81.4% and 73.7%, respectively, and the DFS was 75.7%, 73.2%, 69.6% and 60.2%, respectively. Age >50 years was found to be a significant factor affecting DFS (P = 0.026) and OS (P = 0.048) in multivariate analysis. Fifty-three (10.3%) patients developed osteoradionecrosis of the mandible.

Conclusion:

Excellent outcome could be achieved in less-aggressive, low-volume carcinoma of the buccal mucosa with radical accelerated hypofractionated radiotherapy. A radiotherapy schedule over a 3-week period is useful in high-volume centres.
Feasibility of nonoperative treatment of acute appendicitis in children: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Perveen Shazia , Akhtar Jamshed , Ali Sajid , Jabbar Abdul
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

The management of acute appendicitis is a matter of debate even in contemporary era. Non-operative management is proposed as a valid treatment option for acute appendicitis in children.

Methods:

A prospective cohort study was conducted from April 2020 to September 2021 at the National Institute of Child Health, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan, in children aged ≤ 12 years who were suspected of having acute appendicitis. Children with diffuse peritonitis and complex mass on ultrasonography were excluded. All children were kept nil per oral and started on intravenous fluid hydration and antibiotics. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS version 20. Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test were applied to determine the statistical significance.

Results:

A total of 190 patients were admitted with a diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Thirty-two children with advanced disease underwent surgery. The remaining 158 patients were managed with nonoperative treatment. In 138 (87.3%) patients, resolution of symptoms occurred. Twenty (12.7%) patients underwent operation during the same admission (non-responders). Thirteen (9.4%) patients had recurrence of symptoms and underwent appendectomy. A total of 33 (20.9%) patients had appendectomy either at the primary admission or after discharge. Non-operative treatment was more likely to be successful in patients with symptoms of ≤ 24 h duration (P = 0.02), total leucocyte count of <12 × 109 cells/L (P = 0.005) and smaller size of the appendix on ultrasound (P = 0.001).

Conclusion:

Among children with uncomplicated acute appendicitis, a non-operative approach resulted in resolution of symptoms in 87.3% of patients at the initial admission. Failure of non-operative treatment and recurrence of disease after discharge from the hospital occurred in 9.4% of patients after successful initial treatment. Thus, the overall success rate at a mean follow-up of 3 months was about 78%.
Presenting characteristics, histological subtypes and outcomes of adult central nervous system tumours: retrospective review of a surgical cohort
Authors: Lim Mervyn Jun Rui , Zheng Yilong , Eng Sean Wai-Onn , Seah Celest Wen Ting , Fu Shuning , Lam Lucas Zheng Long , Wong Joel Yat Seng , Vellayappan Balamurugan , Wong Andrea Li-Ann , Teo Kejia , Nga Vincent Diong Weng , Lwin Sein , Yeo Tseng Tsai
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

The most recent local study on the incidence of histological subtypes of all brain and spinal tumours treated surgically was published in 2000. In view of the outdated data, we investigated the presenting characteristics, histological subtypes and outcomes of adult patients who underwent surgery for brain or spinal tumours at our institution.

Methods:

A single-centre retrospective review of 501 patients who underwent surgery for brain or spinal tumours from 2016 to 2020 was conducted. The inclusion criteria were (a) patients who had a brain or spinal tumour that was histologically verified and (b) patients who were aged 18 years and above at the time of surgery.

Results:

Four hundred and thirty-five patients (86.8%) had brain tumours and 66 patients (13.2%) had spinal tumours. Patients with brain tumours frequently presented with cranial nerve palsy, headache and weakness, while patients with spinal tumours frequently presented with weakness, numbness and back pain. Overall, the most common histological types of brain and spinal tumours were metastases, meningiomas and tumours of the sellar region. The most common complications after surgery were cerebrospinal fluid leak, diabetes insipidus and urinary tract infection. In addition, 15.2% of the brain tumours and 13.6% of the spinal tumours recurred, while 25.7% of patients with brain tumours and 18.2% of patients with spinal tumours died. High-grade gliomas and metastases had the poorest survival and highest recurrence rates.

Conclusion:

This study serves as a comprehensive update of the epidemiology of brain and spinal tumours and could help guide further studies on brain and spinal tumours.
Treating overactive bladder symptoms after transurethral prostatic surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia – Which medication to choose?
Authors: Lee Cheng-Ling , Kuo Hann-Chorng
Published: August 2023

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

Overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms are often encountered in patients after transurethral resection of the prostate (TUR-P) or transurethral incision of the prostate (TUI-P) for benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). Either antimuscarinics or b-3 agonist has been found effective in relieving OAB symptoms. However, urologists usually do not prescribe such medication immediately after TUR-P or TUI-P to avoid an increase in postvoid residual and risk of urinary tract infection. If OAB medication can be used and adverse events (AEs) can be reduced to minimum, patients’ quality of life after bladder outlet obstruction surgery could be improved. This study compared the safety and efficacy between solifenacin and mirabegron in men undergoing TUR-P or TUI-P.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective, randomized trial compared the safety and efficacy of OAB medication on the reduction in Urgency Severity Score (USS), OAB Symptoms Score (OABSS), International Prostate Symptom Score, and urgency urinary incontinence episodes in men with BPO undergoing surgical intervention. All patients could void smoothly after catheter removal and were randomly received daily solifenacin 5 mg, mirabegron 50 mg, or no interventions for 4 weeks. At 2 and 4 weeks postoperatively, participants’ OAB symptoms and AEs were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 57 men were enrolled in this study with a mean age of 70.8 ± 6.1 years. At 2 weeks postoperatively, USS (1.56 ± 1.72 vs. 2.39 ± 1.72 vs. 2.26 ± 1.73, P < 0.011) and OABSS (5.33 ± 3.65 vs. 7.67 ± 4.19 vs. 8.58 ± 4.31, P < 0.000) were significantly reduced in patients taking solifenacin, mirabegron, or control, respectively. Two patients in the solifenacin group developed urinary retention. However, the changes of variables at 4 weeks postoperatively were insignificant among the three groups.

Conclusion:

Solifenacin and mirabegron are two different drug classes both equally effective in treating immediate OAB symptoms after TUR-P or TUI-P. However, OAB symptoms could be relieved at 4 weeks without any medication. Considering AEs, b-3 agonist has a more favorable safety profile than antimuscarinics.
The Correlation between Prospective Teachers' Knowledge of Algebraic Inverse Operations and Teaching Competency - using the square root as an example
Authors: Leung Issic Kui Chiu , Ding Lin , Leung Allen Yuk Lun , Wong Ngai Ying
Published: August 2023

This study is part of a larger study investigating the subject matter knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge of Hong Kong prospective mathematics teachers, the relationship between the knowledge of algebraic operation and its inverse, and their teaching competency. In this paper, we address the subject matter knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge of eight Hong Kong prospective teachers in teaching the mathematical concept of the square root of a number in junior secondary school. The results suggest that insufficient understanding of the concept of algebraic operation is a major obstacle for effective teaching of this topic by prospective teachers. The results corroborate the viewpoint that subject matter knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge are interrelated constructs and that rich subject matter knowledge leads to high-quality pedagogical content knowledge. We conclude it with a suggestion on how teachers can enrich their pedagogical content knowledge by looking at elementary mathematics from an advanced standpoint (EMFAS), when they possess a substantial subject knowledge
A snapshot of the role of the textbook in English secondary mathematics classrooms
Authors: O'Keeffe Lisa , White Bruce
Published: August 2023

The role and function of the mathematics textbook has been widely discussed since its inclusion in the Trends in International Mathematics and Science study (TIMSS) in the late nineties. They are a common feature in many classrooms worldwide and have been identified as important vehicles for the promotion of curricula. However, there has also been much debate about the role of a mathematics textbook and as a result there is anecdotal evidence to suggest a decline in the use of mathematics textbooks in England. This paper reports on an examination of the current role of mathematics textbooks in secondary and middle schools in the North-West of England based on teachers self-reported use of mathematics textbooks. The data indicates that for all teachers in this sample who used a mathematics textbook, there is a positive correlation between the number of years teaching experience a teacher has and the amount of their classroom time that is 'textbook driven' and a negative correlation between the number of years' experience a teacher has and the likelihood that they will use a mathematics textbook as their key resource for planning. These teachers also identified as having access to a range of different resources to supplement their use of mathematics textbook and using textbooks in varied ways such as to set reading tasks.
Working with the Dynamic Perpendicular Quadrilateral in a Whole Class Setting
Authors: Forsythe Susan Kathleen
Published: August 2023

This paper describes how a dynamic figure was used as the basis for a task designed to support students in developing the hierarchical classification of the kites and their subsets. Following on from a previous study using the task with pairs of students, I describe how I embedded the task into a pedagogical sequence of activities, which included class discussion and an animation of the dynamic figure. The findings from this study, essentially the final iteration of a larger Design Based Research study, show how the task can be effectively used in a whole class context. The dynamic nature of the figure together with the narrative descriptions of what happens to the figure under dragging can be shown to be valuable in the development of geometrical concepts and in particular the inclusion of the rhombus as a subset of the kites.
Mathematical Practices in a Social Learning Environment Guided by the Hypothetical Learning Trajectory for Quadrilaterals
Authors: UYGUN TUGBA
Published: August 2023

The purpose of the current article is to test and revise the hypothetical learning trajectory designed for teaching quadrilaterals by reporting the classroom mathematical practices emerged in a social learning environment developing preservice middle school mathematics teachers' understanding of quadrilaterals. Ten preservice teachers participated in five-week instructional sequence guided by the hypothetical learning trajectory designed by problem-based learning strategy about quadrilaterals. This teaching experiment study by a case study focused on their learning and understanding of quadrilaterals through argumentations. Hence, the qualitative data collected through whole class and peer group discussions, field notes, written worksheets, group meetings, and interviews were analysed by three-phase methodology of Rasmussen and Stephan (2008) based on Toulmin's model of argumentation (1969).  Three mathematical practices emerged through the five-week instructional sequence: reasoning on definitions of quadrilaterals, reasoning on relationship between quadrilaterals and reasoning on properties of quadrilaterals. Moreover, it was observed that preservice teachers developed their learning and understanding of quadrilaterals by the hypothetical learning trajectory.
Developing Knowledge of Student Thinking: Understanding Big Ideas behind Students’ Difficulties with Connecting Representations in Algebra
Authors: Moon Kyunghee
Published: August 2023

This study concerns preservice teachers’ knowledge of student thinking at the secondary level. In particular, it examines in what ways a three-week unit integrating content and student thinking was beneficial in developing preservice teachers’ knowledge of student thinking associated with big ideas in algebra—such as variation, Cartesian Connection, and graph as a locus of points. In the early stage of discussion of student work, preservice teachers tended to focus mostly on students’ errors/mistakes, correct ways the problems should have been solved, or the types of problems that students had. However, with the progress made in discussion, they were able to attribute students’ difficulties to a lack of understanding of qualities such as definitions, properties, and concepts, and further to a lack of the understanding of big ideas underneath the qualities, with the help from instructors. The majority were also able to design contextualized tasks that could stimulate students’ interests; yet they struggled to explain how they would use the tasks to promote students’ development of big ideas by connecting multiple representations.
Model-Based Combustion Control to Reduce the Brake Specific Fuel
Consumption and Pollutant Emissions under Real Driving Maneuvers
Authors: Brusa Alessandro , Mecagni Jacopo , Shethia Fenil Panalal , Corti Enrico
Published: August 2023

A previously developed piston damage and exhaust gas temperature models are
coupled to manage the combustion process and thereby increasing the overall
energy conversion efficiency. The proposed model-based control algorithm is
developed and validated in a software-in-the-loop simulation environment, and
then the controller is deployed in a rapid control prototyping device and tested
online at the test bench. In the first part of the article, the exhaust gas
temperature model is reversed and converted into a control function, which is
then implemented in a piston damage-based spark advance controller. In this way,
more aggressive calibrations are actuated to target a certain piston damage
speed and exhaust gas temperature at the turbine inlet. A more anticipated spark
advance results in a lower exhaust gas temperature, and such decrease is
converted into lowering the fuel enrichment with respect to the production
calibrations. Moreover, the pollutant emissions associated with production
calibrations and the implementation of the developed controller are compared
through a GT-Power combustion model.

Finally, the complete controller is validated for both the transient and
steady-state conditions, reproducing a real vehicle maneuver at the engine test
bench. The results demonstrate that the combination of an accurate estimation of
the damage induced by knock and the value of the exhaust gas temperature allows
to reduce the brake specific fuel consumption by up to 20%. Moreover, the
stoichiometric area of the engine operating field is extended by 20%, and the
GT-Power simulations show a maximum CO reduction of about 50%.
Recursos didácticos tecnológicos en el desarrollo óculo manual en las niñas y niños de 3 a 4 años
Authors: Macías Zambrano María Alejandra , Zambrano Alcívar Johanna Isabel
Published: August 2023

En este estudio se aborda la importancia que tiene el uso de las TIC como medio dinamizador en el proceso de enseñanza a través de actividades didácticas que potencien el desarrollo del aprendizaje en las aulas. Se plantea la problemática relacionada a la falta de coordinación visomanual y desarrollo motriz en las niñas y niños de 3 a 4 años de edad. El objetivo que se propone es implementar recursos didácticos tecnológicos para el desarrollo de las habilidades óculo manual. Para el desarrollo de la investigación se abordó un enfoque mixto, enmarcado en un tipo de alcance exploratorio. Se utilizaron técnicas de recolección de datos, ficha de observación, encuesta y entrevista, lo que permitió en primera instancia comprobar el problema y en segunda instancia como resultado mostrar que el uso de recursos didácticos fomenta el aprendizaje convirtiendo el aula más dinámica e innovadora. El presente estudio concluye en que las tecnologías digitales se muestran como potentes medios de comunicación entre la familia y el entorno educativo, haciendo más visible el significado y el valor de los procesos vividos.
Hubungan Budaya Organisasi, Komitmen Organisasi, dan Disiplin Kerja Terhadap Kinerja Karyawan PT Sankin Indonesia
Authors: Paryantoni Paryantoni
Published: August 2023

Tujuan utama dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui Hubungan Budaya  Organisasi, Komitmen Organisasi dan Disiplin kerja terhadap kinerja karyawan PT. Sankin Indonesia. Menggunakan desain penelitian pendekatan deskriptif kuantitatif kausal. Objek dalam penelitian ini adalah karyawan PT. Sankin Indonesia sebanyak 62 orang responden. Alat pengumpulan data dengan menggunakan kuisioner dengan metode skala likert. Analisis data dalam penelitian ini menggunakan analisis regresi linier berganda, uji asumsi klasik, uji r square dan uji hipotesis, menggunakan alat pengolahan data SPSS. Tahap pertama dalam penelitian ini menentukan indicator setiap variabel dan menyusun pernyataan yang akan di jadikan kuisioner, selanjutnya setelah data terkumpul dilakukan uji validitas pertanyaan setiap variabel berikut dengan reliabilitasnya. Tahap kedua menguji hubungan antara Budaya Organisasi (X1), komitmen Organisasi (X2) dan Disiplin kerja (X3) terhadap kinerja karyawan. Tahapan selanjutnya akan mengukur hasil penelitian dari setiap hubungan variable.
Strategi Bertumbuh (Scale Up) Pelaku Usaha UMKM Kabupaten Lombok Barat Dalam Upaya Untuk Meningkatkan Kesejahteraan
Authors: Hadi Sulhan , Eikman Alfian , Salmin Salmin
Published: August 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana variasi bahasa terjadi pada komunikasi digital pada transakasi e-commerce di situs jual beli Tokopedia. Peneltian ini hanya membatasi pada kajian variasi bahasa dari sudut pandang penuturnya. Metode penelitian ini adalah deskriptif kualitatif bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi bentuk-bentuk variasi bahasa dan dan mengelompokkan kedalam jenisnya. Sumber data penelitian ini adalah kumpulan teks dialog diskusi transaksi pada situs jual beli online Tokopedia. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa terdapat berbagai variasi bahasa dari aspek penutur yaitu Dialek bahasa daerah di indoensia, Register yang khas pada kegiatan jual beli online, model model sosiolek berdasarkan kelompok maysarakat, dan variasi bahasa kronolek.
Model Variasi Bahasa Pada Transaksi E- Commerce; Suatu Kajian Sosiolinguistik
Authors: Mahmud Mahmud , Wirabhakti Agus
Published: August 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana variasi bahasa terjadi pada komunikasi digital pada transakasi e-commerce di situs jual beli Tokopedia. Peneltian ini hanya membatasi pada kajian variasi bahasa dari sudut pandang penuturnya. Metode penelitian ini adalah deskriptif kualitatif bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi bentuk-bentuk variasi bahasa dan dan mengelompokkan kedalam jenisnya. Sumber data penelitian ini adalah kumpulan teks dialog diskusi transaksi pada situs jual beli online Tokopedia. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa terdapat berbagai variasi bahasa dari aspek penutur yaitu Dialek bahasa daerah di indoensia, Register yang khas pada kegiatan jual beli online, model model sosiolek berdasarkan kelompok maysarakat, dan variasi bahasa kronolek.
SMARTBOX PENERIMA PAKET BELANJA ONLINE
Authors: Ronaldo Deddy , Nugrahaningsih Nahumi , Pratamajaya Edy
Published: August 2023

At the time of the development of industry 4.0, freight forwarding services urgently needed increased online buying and selling services supported by e-commerce. Problems with delivery services are usually caused by the sender himself. For example, such as damage and loss of goods sent, high shipping costs and erratic delivery times. To overcome the above problems, the researcher created a design in the form of a package receiving box using a linear sequential method such as analysis, design, coding and testing where this box can later be used when the box owner is not at the box's house. The box that is made has a camera that is used to monitor the whereabouts of the person in front of the box, if someone is in front of the box, the box will send a notification to the telegram so that later the owner can control the box to open so that packages can be put into the box. The final result of this research is a package receiving box that can be controlled and provides notification via telegram, where this tool uses a camera as a person detector and ultrasonic to detect items in the box, which will later provide notifications to the telegram bot so that the package owner knows if there is a courier or not in front of the package receiving box, and also telegram can control the servo to unlock the package receiving box itself.
RANCANG BANGUN SISTEM DETEKSI KEMATANGAN BUAH KELAPA SAWIT BERDASARKAN DETEKSI WARNA MENGGUNAKAN ALGORITMA K-NN
Authors: Saputra Ade chandra , Oktaviyani Enny Dwi
Published: August 2023

The rapid growth of the palm oil industry has made it increasingly important to develop applications that can detect the maturity level of oil palm fruit. This paper presents the design and development of an application for detecting the maturity level of oil palm fruit based on color composition using the K-NN algorithm. The K-NN algorithm is used to classify the oil palm fruit based on the color composition that is related to its maturity level.

 

The application uses image processing technology to measure the qualitative and quantitative parameters of various maturity indicators, such as color, size, and texture. Different color compositions of the oil palm fruit indicate different maturity levels, and using the K-NN algorithm, the fruit can be classified based on its maturity level. The application helps reduce production costs and losses caused by errors in harvesting the fruit.

 

The application is designed to be user-friendly and accessible to farmers and plantation managers. The user interface is simple and intuitive, allowing users to easily input the image of the oil palm fruit and get a quick analysis of its maturity level. The results are displayed in a clear and understandable way, making it easy for users to make informed decisions about when to harvest the fruit.

 

In conclusion, the application for detecting the maturity level of oil palm fruit based on color composition using the K-NN algorithm is a useful tool in the palm oil industry. It helps farmers and plantation managers determine the optimal time for harvesting the fruit, reducing production costs and increasing productivity. The user-friendly interface makes it accessible to a wider range of users and facilitates informed decision-makin
Poemas, Encruzilhadas e Vozes Insubmissas: o escreviver de mulher preta como estilhaçamento das amarras coloniais
Authors: Santos Dayanne da Silva
Published: August 2023

Poema