bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reflexive Thematic Analysis for Applied Qualitative Health Research
Authors: Campbell Karen , Orr Elizabeth , Durepos Pamela , Nguyen Linda , Li Lin , Whitmore Carly , Gehrke Paige , Graham Leslie , Jack Susan
Published: July 2021

Thematic analysis is a widely cited method for analyzing qualitative data. As a team of graduate students, we sought to explore methods of data analysis that were grounded in qualitative philosophies and aligned with our orientation as applied health researchers. We identified reflexive thematic analysis, developed by Braun and Clarke, as an interpretive method firmly situated within a qualitative paradigm that would also have broad applicability within a range of qualitative health research designs. In this approach to analysis, the subjectivity of the researcher is recognized and viewed not as problematic but instead valued as integral to the analysis process. We therefore elected to explore reflexive thematic analysis, advance and apply our analytic skills in applied qualitative health research, and provide direction and technique for researchers interested in this method of analysis. In this paper, we describe how a multidisciplinary graduate student group of applied health researchers utilized Braun and Clarke’s approach to reflexive thematic analysis. Specifically, we explore and describe our team’s process of data analysis used to analyze focus group data from a study exploring postnatal care referral behavior by traditional birth attendants in Nigeria. This paper illustrates our experience in applying the six phases of reflexive thematic analysis as described by Braun and Clarke: (1) familiarizing oneself with the data, (2) generating codes, (3) constructing themes, (4) reviewing potential themes, (5) defining and naming themes, and (6) producing the report. We highlight our experiences through each phase, outline strategies to support analytic quality, and share practical activities to guide the use of reflexive thematic analysis within an applied health research context and when working within research teams.
Using Framework Analysis in Applied Qualitative Research
Authors: Goldsmith Laurie
Published: July 2021

Framework analysis and applied qualitative research can be a perfect match, in large part because framework analysis was developed for the explicit purpose of analyzing qualitative data in applied policy research. Framework analysis is an inherently comparative form of thematic analysis which employs an organized structure of inductively- and deductively-derived themes (i.e., a framework) to conduct cross-sectional analysis using a combination of data description and abstraction. The overall objective of framework analysis is to identify, describe, and interpret key patterns within and across cases of and themes within the phenomenon of interest. This flexible and powerful method of analysis has been applied to a variety of data types and used in a range of ways in applied research. Framework analysis consists of two major components: creating an analytic framework and applying this analytic framework. This paper details the five steps in framework analysis (data familiarization, framework identification, indexing, charting, and mapping and interpretation) through conducting secondary analysis on this special issue’s common dataset. This worked example adds to the existing framework analysis methodology literature both through describing the analysis specifics and through highlighting the importance of multiple considerations of units of analysis. This paper also includes reflection on the myriad reasons that framework analysis is valuable for applied research.
A molecular outlook review on how coffee and oats can help redefine the way we take care of our health
Authors:   Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular, San Nicolás de los Garza, Ave. Francisco I. Madero y Dr. Aguirre Pequeño Col. Mitras Centro, Nuevo León, 64460 México, Delgado-Gallegos Juan Luis , Garza-Juarez Aurora de Jesus ,   Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular, San Nicolás de los Garza, Ave. Francisco I. Madero y Dr. Aguirre Pequeño Col. Mitras Centro, Nuevo León, 64460 México, G-Buentello Zuca ,   Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular, San Nicolás de los Garza, Ave. Francisco I. Madero y Dr. Aguirre Pequeño Col. Mitras Centro, Nuevo León, 64460 México, Islas Jose Francisco ,   Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular, San Nicolás de los Garza, Ave. Francisco I. Madero y Dr. Aguirre Pequeño Col. Mitras Centro, Nuevo León, 64460 México
Published: July 2021

Chronic degenerative diseases like obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, fatty liver, have gained high prevalence in the world, due to sedentarism, improper nutritional habits as well as alcohol and tobacco consumption. Studies have shown that regular consumption of breakfast leads to a wide range of benefits, especially for the liver. The liver is a key organ for metabolic homeostasis regulating and governing energy metabolism, mostly providing nutrients for reabsorption. Benefits of a nutrimental quality breakfast seem to help lower body mass index, prevent metabolic diseases, and overall improve quality of life. Unfortunately, these include either high cholesterol or high-sugar foods including cold cuts, bread, eggs, and sugary beverages. Also, much of the population’s work schedule relates to long hours and high-level of stress, therefore malnutrition, and inadequate eating schedules are common.
BASIC SCHOOL TEACHERS’ ASSESSMENT PRACTICES IN THE SISSALA EAST MUNICIPALITY, GHANA
Authors: Osman Shani
Published: July 2021

This study employed a sequential explanatory mixed-method design to examine basic school teachers’ classroom assessment conceptions in the Sissala East Municipality in the Upper West Region of Ghana. In particular, the study examined the classroom assessment practices of teachers and their demographic characteristics that influence their assessment practices. Quantitative data gathered from 203 respondents were analyzed using mean, standard deviations, t-test and ANOVA. In the follow-up qualitative phase, semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 12 participants and the data subjected to interpretive thematic analysis. The findings revealed that teachers mostly employ traditional assessment methods than alternative assessment tools Furthermore, gender, age, assessment training, teaching experience and class teaching level impacted the teachers’ use of assessment methods. It was recommended among other issues that regular in-service training in assessment be conducted for teachers for them to be up-to-date and also develop their skills and use of appropriate alternative classroom assessment practices.

 

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LA COMPETENCE COMMUNICATIVE EN FRANÇAIS DE SPECIALITE / COMMUNICATIVE COMPETENCE IN FRENCH FOR SPECIAL PURPOSES
Authors: Koske Lily
Published: July 2021

La préoccupation autour de la compétence communicative a été à la genèse du renouvellement méthodologique dans la didactique des langues depuis les années 1970. En effet, l’objectif principal de l’apprentissage d’une langue étrangère est d’acquérir une compétence communicative. C’est d’autant plus le cas en ce qui concerne l’apprentissage d’une langue de spécialité où l’apprenant ne cherche pas tant à maîtriser la langue qu’à développer certaines compétences pour communiquer dans des situations spécifiques. Un regard plus attentif sur cette compétence révèle qu’elle est constituée d’un certain nombre d’autres composantes. La question qui se pose alors est de savoir si l’enseignement de la langue de spécialité nécessite de prendre en compte le développement de toutes ces composantes. Pour répondre à cette question, nous avons mené une recherche auprès de professionnels travaillant dans le secteur du tourisme et de l’hôtellerie et de la restauration (THR) au Kenya au moyen de questionnaires. Les données recueillies ont révélé que les compétences liées à la compréhension du français parlé, et en particulier la compréhension des demandes et la réponse aux clients, sont considérées comme étant de prime importance.

The question of communicative competence has been at the heart of the language teaching studies since the 1970s. Indeed, the main objective of learning a foreign language is to acquire communicative competence. This is particularly the case in the learning of languages for special purposes, where the learner does not so much seek to master the language as to develop certain skills for communicating in specific work situations. A closer look at this competence reveals that it is made up of a number of other components. The question then arises as to whether the teaching of the language for special purposes needs to take into account the development of all these components. To answer this question, we conducted research among professionals working in the tourism, hospitality and catering sector in Kenya using questionnaires. The data collected revealed that skills related to understanding spoken French, and in particular understanding requests and responding to customers, are considered to be of primary importance.

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STRENGTHENING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS' LISTENING AND SPEAKING SKILLS IN ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE: ONLINE INTERNATIONAL CONVERSATION CLUBS / FORTALECIMIENTO DE HABILIDADES DE ESCUCHA Y HABLA DE ESTUDIANTES EN INGLÉS COMO IDIOMA EXTRANJERO: CLUBES INTERNACIONALES DE CONVERSACIÓN EN LÍNEA
Authors: Mosquera Ordoñez Jonny Evelio , Villafuerte Holguín Jhonny Saulo
Published: July 2021

This work aims to determine the contribution of Online Conversation Clubs to university students' listening and speaking skills. It used the action research technique to plan and implement an educational intervention that articles the education for peace and global citizenship with the linguistic practice in COVID19 pandemic times. The participants were twenty-five university students from 6 different countries who took part in six conversation sessions. All participants identified flaws in their pronunciation when observing the language practices videos and showed high motivation to work on their self-correction. Contrast of listening and speaking skills pretest and post-test results shows that 100% of participants improved their communication skills significantly. It concluded that online conversation club practice could refine participants' listening comprehension and activates their speaking self-correction in using English as a Foreign Language. Besides, it became an efficient instrument to promote peace and global citizenship as part of their professional profile.

Este trabajo tiene como objetivo determinar la contribución de los Clubes de Conversación en Línea a las habilidades de escucha y expresión oral de los estudiantes universitarios. Se utilizó la técnica de investigación-acción para planificar e implementar una intervención educativa que articula la educación para la paz y la ciudadanía global con la práctica lingüística en tiempos de pandemia de COVID19. Los participantes fueron veinticinco estudiantes universitarios de 6 países diferentes que participaron en seis sesiones de conversación. Todos los participantes identificaron fallas en su pronunciación al observar los videos de prácticas lingüísticas y mostraron una alta motivación para trabajar en su autocorrección. El contraste de los resultados de las pruebas previas y posteriores a las habilidades para escuchar y hablar muestra que el 100% de los participantes mejoraron significativamente sus habilidades de comunicación. Concluyó que la práctica del club de conversación en línea podría refinar la comprensión auditiva de los participantes y activar su autocorrección oral al usar el inglés como lengua extranjera. Además, se convirtió en un eficaz instrumento para promover la paz y la ciudadanía global como parte de su perfil profesional.

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INTERVENTION APPROACHES IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN ORDINARY SCHOOL TO ENHANCE SOCIAL INTERACTION IN A STUDENT WITH AUTISTIC SPECTRUM DISORDER: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Markaki Maria , Chyta Nikoleta , Maggouritsa Georgia , Kokaridas Dimitrios
Published: July 2021

Co-education of students with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) during the lesson of Physical Education (PE) in the Greek School constitutes contemporary educational reality. However, its success depends on many factors, with the most important being the effective employment of cooperative physical education methods for students with disabilities or no disabilities. The purpose of this case study was to analyze the impact of a physical education intervention program on the reinforcement of the social interaction of a student with ASD, aged 10, in the ordinary school. The intervention exercise program included the following specific educational approaches and intervention strategies: a) game with the support of an adult (adult support game) b) integrated playgroups with guided involvement (Integrated Play Groups Model) and c) games between peers providing a model to imitate. The duration of the program was eight weeks, with a frequency of three times per week, each lesson of PE (Physical Education) lasting 45 minutes. The data collection tools that were used in the pre-intervention program were the semi-structured interview and the «Autism Social Skills Profile» scale (Bellini & Hopf, 2007), which was adapted in the Greek Language by Syriopoulou- Delli, Agaliotis and Papaefstathiou (2016). It was used before and after the intervention. The results of the research study showed that the student with ASD had positive experiences through his relationship with his classmates, increased his level of participation in the lesson of Physical Education (PE) throughout the implementation of the intervention program, and improved his social reciprocity through interaction and collaboration with his peers, without displaying improper or detrimental social behavior patterns.

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Hubungan Health Locus of Control dengan Kepatuhan Diet pada Pasien Diabetes Mellitus Tipe 2 di RSUD Kota Depok Tahun 2020
Authors: Adhanty Shania , Ayubi Dian , Anshari Dien
Published: July 2021

Latar Belakang. Diabetes Mellitus (DM) telah menyebabkan 4,2 juta kematian pada tahun 2019. Di Indonesia, penyakit DM merupakan salah satu PTM yang menyebabkan kematian utama. Kepatuhan diet menjadi perilaku yang sangat penting dan diperlukan kendali diri.Tujuan. Tujuan penelitian adalah mengetahui hubungan lokus kendali diri untuk sehat baik dimensi internal, orang berpengaruh, keberuntungan dan faktor lainnya dengan kepatuhan diet pasien DM tipe 2 di RSUD Kota Depok tahun 2020.Metode. Penelitian menggunakan desain cross-sectional, pengambilan data dilakukan melalui convenience sampling pada 52 pasien DM tipe 2 yang berkunjung ke poli penyakit dalam RSUD Kota Depok.Hasil. Pasien memiliki nilai kepatuhan diet yang cukup yaitu 66,23 dari skala 100. Hasil uji korelasi pearson menunjukkan terdapat hubungan yang signifikan dengan kekuatan sedang dan positif antara lokus kendali untuk sehat dimensi internal dan dimensi orang berpengaruh dengan kepatuhan diet (r= 0,46 dan r= 0,28) diikuti dengan dimensi keberuntungan menunjukkan kekuatan sedang dan negatif terhadap kepatuhan diet (r= -0,28).Kesimpulan. Terdapat hubungan yang signifikan antara health locus of control dimensi internal, powerful others dan chance dengan kepatuhan diet dengan kekuatan hubungan sedang dan arah korelasi positif pada dimensi internal dan powerful others sedangkan negatif pada dimensi chance. ABSTRACTBackground. Diabetes Mellitus (DM) caused 4.2 million deaths in 2019. In Indonesia, DM is an NCD that causes major deaths. Dietary adherence becomes a vital behavior and requires self-control. Objective. This study aimed to determine the relationship between health locus of control on internal, powerful-others, chance dimensions and other factors with dietary adherence among type 2 DM patients at Depok City Hospital in 2020.Method. This study used a cross-sectional design and data collection through convenience sampling on 52 type 2 DM patients who visited internist poly in Depok City Hospital.Results. This study indicates that patients have adequate dietary adherence values 66,23 on a scale of 100. Pearson correlation test results show a significant relationship between health locus of control on internal and powerful-others dimensions with a moderate and positive relationship with dietary adherence (r= 0,46 and r= 0,28). Meanwhile, the chance dimension shows a moderate and negative relationship with dietary adherence (r= -0,28).Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between health locus of control internal, powerful others and chance dimensions with dietary compliance with moderate strength. The direction of the correlation is positive on the internal dimension and powerful others while negative on the chance dimension.
Segitiga Kebijakan dan Analisis SWOT Mengenai Implementasi Kebijakan PSBB dalam Penanggulangan COVID-19 di DKI Jakarta
Authors: Wati Risa Laras , Elisabet Belinda Meliana , Goenawan Goalbertus , Nurhanifah Nurhanifah , Pratomo Hadi
Published: July 2021

Latar Belakang. Provinsi DKI Jakarta merupakan provinsi dengan kasus tertinggi COVID-19 di Indonesia. Pada 23 Juni 2020 terdapat 10.123 kasus terkonfirmasi dan merupakan provinsi yang pertama kali menetapkan status Pembatasan Sosial Berskala Besar (PSBB).Tujuan. Mengkaji implementasi kebijakan PSBB untuk merumuskan strategi pelaksanaan kebijakan di masa mendatang.Metode. Implementasi kebijakan PSBB Provinsi DKI Jakarta dianalisis dengan menggunakan analisis SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, Threat). Analisis SWOT merupakan suatu alat perencanaan strategis yang banyak digunakan dalam program pengembangan masyarakat, kesehatan dan pendidikan. Penelitian menggunakan data sekunder berupa kebijakan-kebijakan PSBB yang diperoleh melalui situs resmi Pemerintah Provinsi DKI Jakarta dan berita-berita terkait kebijakan PSBB DKI Jakarta yang dimuat di media cetak maupun elektronik pada rentang waktu antara 25 Februari 2020 sampai dengan 5 Juni 2020.Hasil. Adanya dukungan dari tokoh masyarakat, aplikasi untuk mendukung pekerjaan dan pendidikan jarak jauh, serta adanya dukungan dari pemerintah pusat, TNI dan Polri serta tokoh masyarakat merupakan suatu peluang agar bisa menerapkan kebijakan secara maksimal.Kesimpulan. Kebijakan PSBB sudah diimplementasikan dengan baik karena sudah mengatur seluruh aspek kehidupan masyarakat dan berhasil menekan penyebaran COVID-19 di Ibu Kota. ABSTRACTIntroduction. DKI Jakarta is the province with the highest COVID-19 cases in Indonesia, with 10.123 confirmed cases as of 23th June 2020, and it was the first province to determine the status of Large-Scale Social Restrictions (PSBB).Objective To review the implementation of large scale social restrictions policy to formulate a strategy for implementing future policies Methods. The implementation of the DKI Jakarta PSBB policy was analyzed using a SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, Threat) analysis. SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool that is widely used in community development, health and education programs. The study uses secondary data in the form of PSBB policies obtained through the official website of the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government as well as news related to the DKI Jakarta PSBB policies published in print and electronic media in the period between 25 th February 2020 to 5 th June 2020 Results. The existence of support from community leaders, applications to support work and study from home, as well as support from the Central Government, TNI and Polri as well as community leaders are an opportunity to be able to implement policies optimallyConclusion. The PSBB policy has been well implemented because it has managed all aspects of people’s lives and has succeeded in suppressing the spread of COVID-19 in the capital city.
Bagaimana Media Memberitakan Pandemi: Analisis Isi Berita Mengenai COVID-19 di detik.com dan kompas.com
Authors: Aribah Ghina , Anshari Dien
Published: July 2021

Latar Belakang. Dalam situasi pandemi COVID-19, komunikasi risiko terkait pencegahan dan penanganan merupakan hal yang penting disampaikan secara berkesinambungan melalui media massa yang mudah diakses oleh publikTujuan. mendapatkan gambaran komunikasi risiko dalam berita tentang COVID-19 yang dipublikasi oleh detik.com dan kompas.com.Metode. menggunakan metode analisis isi artikel berita dengan pendekatan deskriptif kuantitatif. Artikel berita yang menjadi data untuk penelitian ini diambil pada Maret-April 2020 dengan metode pengambilan sampel secara acak stratifikasi proporsional.   Hasil. Hanya sebagian kecil berita yang memuat informasi mengenai ukuran epidemiologi, sifat penyakit, cara penanganan, dampak non-kesehatan, dan kritik terhadap kebijakan pemerintah tentang COVID-19. Hampir sebagian berita memuat informasi mengenai kebijakan pemerintah daerah maupun pusat, serta sebagian besar berita pada kedua media daring tersebut memuat informasi mengenai cara pencegahan. Adapun sumber informasi sebagian besar berasal dari institusi. Jenis pesan yang paling banyak adalah pesan yang mengandung ancaman. Kedua media berbeda dalam penggunaan deskripsi bukti, dimana detik.com lebih sering menggunakan bentuk naratif, sedangkan kompas.com lebih sering menggunakan bentuk kombinasi antara angka, data statistik dan naratif.Kesimpulan. Pemberitaan di detik.com dan kompas.com belum sepenuhnya selaras dengan kaidah dalam komunikasi risiko. Media daring sebaiknya lebih banyak memuat pesan efikasi yang dapat membantu publik melewati situasi pandemi. ABSTRACTIntroduction. During the pandemic COVID-19, online news is one of the most accessible channels to disseminate information about the current situation and prevent and mitigate the disease.Objective to get the portrayals of risk communication in news articles about the COVID-19 pandemicMethods. Used content analysis method with descriptive quantitative approach. Data came from selecting news articles published by detik.com and kompas.com in March and April 2020 using a stratified proportional random sampling technique. Results. There were limited news articles that provide epidemiology information, disease characteristics, how to mitigate the disease, the non-health effects of COVID-19, and criticism of the government’s policy. Almost half of the articles from both media shared information about prevention. In terms of message type, most of the articles used threat messages. Both media also mostly cited institutions as the source of information. Both media differ in depicting the evidence, whereas detik.com mostly used narrative forms, while kompas.com more frequently used the combination of numbers, statistical data, and narrative structures.Conclusion. News on detik.com and kompas.com is not entirely in line with the rules in risk communication. Online news media should incorporate efficacy messages into their news articles during this pandemic situation.
Smart Face Detection and Recognition in Low Resolution Images Using Alexnet CNN Compare Accuracy with SVM
Authors: Mahesh S. , Ramkumar Dr.G.
Published: July 2021

Aim: Machine learning algorithm plays a vital role in various biometric applications due to its admirable result in detection, recognition and classification. The main objective of this work is to perform comparative analysis on two different machine learning algorithms to recognize the person from low resolution images with high accuracy. Materials & Methods: AlexNet Convolutional Neural Network (ACNN) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifiers are implemented to recognize the face in a low resolution image dataset with 20 samples each. Results: Simulation result shows that ACNN achieves a significant recognition rate with 98% accuracy over SVM (89%). Attained significant accuracy ratio (p=0.002) in SPSS statistical analysis as well. Conclusion: For the considered low resolution images ACNN classifier provides better accuracy than SVM Classifier.
MOLIENDA DE ZANAHORIA: UNA ESTRATEGIA PARA PRODUCIR ALIMENTOS CON VALOR AGREGADO
Authors: Patiño Cristian , Muñoz Cristina , Patiño Marcelo , Muñoz Eduardo
Published: July 2021

La molienda es una operación unitaria ampliamente utilizada en la industria alimentaria para transformar granos, vegetales y carnes, a productos con tamaño pequeño. En este sentido, en el presente trabajo se diseñó y construyó un molino de martillos a pequeña escala con el objetivo de reducir el tamaño de zanahoria deshidratada y así, obtener un alimento con valor agregado. Los parámetros del molino como fuerza, torque y potencia se determinaron mediante cálculos teóricos, mientras que los parámetros operacionales como coeficiente de molienda y rendimiento se determinaron mediante el proceso de molienda y tamizado de la zanahoria. La fuerza necesaria del equipo para moler la zanahoria fue 5820 kg*m/s2, mientras que el torque y potencia requerida por el motor para generar los cortes a través de los martillos fueron 34,92 kg*m2/s2 y 989,28 kg*m2/s3, respectivamente. Un rendimiento del 90 % y un coeficiente de molienda de 10 permitió reducir el diámetro de la zanahoria desde 5 cm hasta 0,5 cm. Estos resultados demuestran que el equipo diseñado y construido en este trabajo permite reducir el tamaño de zanahoria deshidratada, proceso que da valor agregado al alimento y que se podría consumir como un snack natural.
Efficacy of Telmisartan in Pristane Induced Arthritis Rat Model
Authors: Mehdi Quratulain , Ishaq Noaman , Batool Saba , Farhat Kulsoom , Omer Saman , Shahid Arooj
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common systemic inflammatory diseases characterized by progressive damage to the joints. There is rising evidence that Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone System signaling is also involved in the inflammatory response in rheumatoid arthritis and its blockers possess anti-arthritic properties. Telmisartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker and PPAR-? agonist and its anti-arthritic effects were evaluated.Aims & Objectives: This experimental study was designed to evaluate the anti-arthritic efficacy of telmisartan in pristane induced rat model of arthritis in adult female rats.Place and duration of study: The study was conducted in the Department of Pharmacology, Army Medical College, Rawalpindi, in collaboration with National Institute of Health and Armed Forces Institute of Pathology from July 2020to August 2020.Material & Methods: Twenty four (24) adult non-pregnant female Sprague Dawley rats were divided in three groups (n=8) designated as Group A (normal control), Group B (arthritic control) and Group C (telmisartan group) & maintained on standard diet and water adlibitum. Rheumatoid arthritis was induced in each rat of Groups B &C by a single intradermal injection of 0.5ml pristane at the base of its tail on day 0 and the disease developed in two weeks. All3 groups were given distilled water 2.5 ml/kg from 2-4 weeks and Group C was additionally given dissolved telmisartan orally at 2 mg/kg/day. Anti-arthritic efficacy was determined by assessing arthrogram score and total leukocyte count on day 0, 14 and 28 along with histological examination done at the end of the study. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 25.Results: Healthy rats in group A maintained a unremarkable arthogram & histogram score & TLC count of 6675±350/?l during the entire study period. Telmisartan administration in Group C for two weeks after pristane induction resulted in significant reduction in arthrogram score (AS) 9.5±3.66, total leukocyte count (TLC) 7350±550/?l and histological score (HS) to 6.88±1.24 as compared to (AS) 14.50±2.07, WBC 10150±350/?L & (HS) 10.75±2.05 in Group B, left untreated with pristane alone. The intergroup comparison showed significant p value < 0.05 respectively.Conclusion: Anti-arthritic effect was shown by telmisartan as it was able to ameliorate the changes induced by pristane.
Morphological Spectrum of Ovarian Teratomas: A 6 Years Experience at a Specialized Diagnostic Institute
Authors: Khalid Fatima , Afzal Sameen , Zafar Ghazi , Chughtai Anila , Zaman Samina , Chughtai Akhtar Sohail
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Ovarian teratomas include mature cystic teratoma (MCT), immature teratoma (IT) and monodermal teratoma (MoT). Malignant transformation (MT) can occur in MCT and MoT, which remains a diagnostic challenge.Aims & Objectives: To discuss the morphological spectrum of ovarian teratomas reported during the last six years at our specialized diagnostic institute and determine the frequency of MT in MCT and MoT.Place and duration of study: The study was carried out at Chughtai Institute of Pathology from January 2015 to December 2020.Material & Methods: A retrospective study was performed by retrieving 1018 cases of ovarian teratomas reported in last 6 years. SPSS version 20 was used for data analysis.Results: MCT was most frequent ovarian teratoma with frequency of 95.6% (n=973), 2.26% (n=23) being IT and 2.16% (n=22) being MoT. IT were mostly seen in pediatric age group. MT in benign MCT was seen in 0.72% of MCT (n=7). Squamous cell carcinoma was most frequent malignancy 71.4% (n=5). One case of MoT also showed MT into papillary thyroid carcinoma, classic type, with frequency of MT in Mot being 4.76% (n=1). All MT in MCT had age >30 yearswhich was a significant finding (p <0.001).Conclusion: Ovarian masses in postmenopausal patients with suspicious radiological features, irrespective of lesional size warrant a thorough gross examination, extensive sampling and a careful microscopic evaluation.
Comparative Effects of Cane Sugar, Honey & Jaggery on Plasma Glucose Level & Body Weight of Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Anjum Ambreen , Qureshi Hamid Javed , Tabassum Saima , Anwar Wardah , Shakil Rida , Anwar Maria , Ghouri Muhammad Hashim
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is characterized by hyperglycemia with impaired metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins resulting from insufficiency of secretion or action of insulin. The interplay of genes and environmental factors is believed to stress glucose homeostasis. Simple dietary and lifestyle modifications have a role in prevention and slow progression of the disease. The choice and role of sweeteners (sugars) such as ordinary cane sugar, honey, and jaggery have always been a difficult decision for patients with Type 2 diabetes.Aims & Objectives: Evaluation and comparison of the effects of cane sugar, honey, and jaggery on plasma glucose in the sera and body weights of alloxan-induced male Wistar rats with diabetes.Place and duration of study: The study was conducted at the animal house of Services Institute of Medical Sciences Lahore for a duration of 20 months approximately.Material & Methods: In this experimental study 120 male Wistar (albino) rats were randomly allocated into 4 groups of 30 each. After acclimatization, freshly prepared 2% alloxan monohydrate was administered to all the rats via intraperitoneal injection in a single dose of 120mg/kg body weight. Blood sample via tail tipping method was analyzed for fasting serum glucose at 4th post-diabetes induction day. Rodents having ? 200mg/dl serum glucose were regarded as type 2 diabetes models for further study. All animals had access to usual pelleted diet ad libitum. Diabetic controls in group I were fed with equivalent amount of distilled water. Group II, III and IV rats were fed freshly prepared sweetener containing cane sugar, honey and jaggery solutions respectively in a dose of 1g/kg body weight dissolved in 2ml distilled water on pre-scheduled time of the day for 28 days via oral syringe-dosing. Final serum glucose was estimated at 29thday of study by terminal blood sampling and final body weights were recorded. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 20.Results: Group III (honey fed) rats had least hyperglycemia of 34.53±77.31mg/dL, followed by group II (cane sugar fed) rats (79.31±73.03 mg/dL) then group I diabetic control rats (88.11±92.56mg/dL) and maximal rise in jaggery fed rats with value of 134.50 mg/dL. Significant reduction (p=0.049) in body weight (-40.50g) was noted in group II rats whereas maximum weight gain occurred in group I (127.57 ±72.475), than those of group IV rats (69.13 ± 92.88) followed by II rats (38.42±89.43).Conclusion: The result demonstrates that honey in type 2 diabetes mellitus possess antidiabetic properties via minimum hyperglycemic and weight gaining effects than processed cane sugar. As it was presumed, minimally processed jaggery has not shown significant beneficial effects on serum glucose and body weight. Owing to the advantageous effects on metabolic profile, honey may be regarded as a relatively safer sweetener in diabetics.
Frequency and Pattern of Bronchiectasis in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Presenting in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Karamat Asifa , Batool Huma , Anwar Sohail , Akram Shazia , Masood Atif , Rafai Wajid Ali
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a high burden respiratory issue all over the world. It has high morbidity and mortality in the United States. Bronchiectasis is associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and is under diagnosed as diagnostic tools like HRCT though easily available but an expensive test in developing countries like Pakistan. We aim to establish the frequency and patterns of bronchiectasis in patients of  COPD.Aims and Objectives: To establish the frequency and pattern of bronchiectasis in COPD in our population so that we can improve patient care and quality of life of these patients.Place and duration of study: We did a cross sectional survey in Department of Pulmonology, Gulab Devi Hospital, Lahore. Study was completed from 1st September 2017 to 28th February 2018.Material & Methods: After taking an informed consent 150 already diagnosed COPD patients were included. Bronchiectasis was seen on high resolution CT scan (HRCT). Data was collected on a structured proforma and analyzed on SPSS version 20.Results: Bronchiectasis was observed in 76 (50.6%) patients of COPD while 74 patients had no bronchiectasis. Out of 76, cylindrical bronchiectasis was seen in 82%. Lower lobe and bilateral involvement was more common. Means of age, gender, exacerbations of COPD, and history of pulmonary tuberculosis were not related to bronchiectasis while pack years of smoking, duration of illness and Modified Medical Research Council (MMRC) Dyspnea Scale were significantly related to bronchiectasis.Conclusion: This is observed that bronchiectasisis quite common (50.6%) in patients of COPD in our population.
Vaping and Adolescents’ Characteristics: Implications for Prevention and Intervention
Authors: Chae Ava , Stark Janet
Published: July 2021

Vaping in the United States has increased in the past decade especially among teens and young adults, causing a rise in public concern for their health. What is relatively scarce in the previous research and the current discussion is the question about what groups of adolescents may be more vulnerable to vaping. This research investigates this very issue by analyzing the associations between vaping use and adolescents’ individual characteristics using a national survey of drug use among U.S. adolescents (“Monitoring the Future: A Continuing Study of American Youth (12th-Grade Survey), 2018”). The findings for logistic regression show that students who struggle with academics and skip school are more vulnerable to vaping than other students. In addition, there is a greater chance of vaping with those students going out more often than others. The amount of money students earn from a job and other work may also be increasing the chance for vaping. The findings can be valuable elements in designing a program of effective prevention and intervention of vaping in the U.S.
A research proposal to study the life cycle of COV
Authors: Tin Phelps , Kunes Sam
Published: July 2021

SARS-CoV2 continues to affect the lives of the majority of the world, and although vaccines are beginning to become available, much of the world will still be unable to obtain them. Furthermore, some studies have suggested that there may have to be annual vaccines and as strains of the virus continue to increase, it is essential for us to move to the next stage of research and attempt to better understand the virus.

By utilizing a chemical genetics approach where numerous ligands of distinct chemical libraries are screened through high-throughput screening, we may be able to form an ordered viral cycle of metabolic events that could help identify drug targets more efficiently and coordinate drug use to improve efficacy. A modified version of the virus (to decrease its ability of infection) along with the URA3 protein is then inserted into yeast cells (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and screened. A simple assay involving the addition of 5’- fluoroorotic acid helps to determine ligand interference and after identifying the compounds, we can order their action into specific steps in the lifecycle and order the events of the life cycle.
Plain geometry, a novel approach to increase solar panel efficiency
Authors: Khashayar Parisa , Trumbauer Eric
Published: July 2021

Traditional flat solar panels with solar tracking and cooling systems are known to be very inefficient, expensive, and difficult to maintain. Additionally their large footprints make it difficult to install in largely populated areas. This paper examines the advantages of using 3D solar panels in pyramid shapes over the conventional flat panels.
The McGurk Effect In Relation to Musicians' Abilities
Authors: Luo Claire , Yeroushalmi Olivia , Schorn Alan
Published: July 2021

The original study of the McGurk Effect, a perceptual phenomenon caused by contradictory audiovisual stimuli fusing together to create the illusion of a third sound, was carried out by psychologists McGurk and MacDonald in 1976. The results of early experiments displayed that observers used both auditory and visual signals while being spoken to, auditory signals being the sound waves entering their ears, and visual signals being how the speaker moved his face while pronouncing a word. When conflicting signals are given, a third sound is perceived, as the brain is disoriented from the different signals. The idea that musicians have superior audiovisual cortexes have led some to speculate if musicians are as susceptible to the McGurk Effect as non-musicians. To research the susceptibility of musicians to the McGurk Effect, the experiment conducted included a total of 40 subjects, 20 musicians and 20 non-musicians. The subjects were played a control video of a speaker saying “ga” and were then presented with four audiovisually incongruent videos, all containing a speaker mouthing the word “ga” with the audio recording of the speaker saying “ba” dubbed on. Two main 2x2 Chi Square tests and fifteen secondary 2x2 Chi Squares tests were run in total. The two main tests, which compared the amount of McGurk interpretations to either audio or visual interpretations, both produced a p-value of <.0005. Upon further research, 25.7% of musicians reported a McGurk interpretation, as opposed to 52.2% of non-musicians, which implied that musicians are less susceptible to the McGurk effect.
Understanding the Gender Gap in Sports through a socio-environmental lens.
Authors: Mahmood Lano
Published: July 2021

The issue of low levels of women’s participation in the sports has always been a key global issue. The discipline of sport psychology allows for a psychological interpretation of reasons to why this is the unfortunate case. The main focus in sport psychology lies upon the concepts of gender stereotyping. This research paper will explore the socio-environmental approach: through gender schema and parental involvement; and the biological approach: through the understanding of various concepts regarding hormones and evolution. Both these approaches help explain why this difference of participation levels exist between the two biological genders.
Investigating Auditory and Visual Memory and Sequencing- Exploring Strengthening Therapeutics for Alzheimer's Patients
Authors: Ganjian Chloe , McCarthy Merideth
Published: July 2021

In modern society, the inherent differences found between females and males are a sensitive topic of debate. It is common for people to associate females with the possession of stronger and more profound visual and auditory memory in comparison to males. This research explored the variances between the sexes by examining and comparing the auditory and visual memories of a population of females and a population of males. The auditory and visual memories of the different sexes will be analyzed through a variety of tasks that will measure their memory capabilities. 
 
Participants of the experiment took two pre-designed tests, a different test for each type of memory. The auditory test included four distinct sounds that played in a specific pattern and challenged the participants’ memory capacities. Through the use of MATLAB, a program developed by MathWorks, and by using coding language, a visual memory game was developed for the visual test. This test contained four different colors that illuminated in a specific sequence. Each participant completed two trials for each type of test to allow them the opportunity to achieve their maximum potential. 
 
The analysis of the results contradicted stereotypical beliefs embedded in societal norms. Males collectively demonstrated a higher capacity for memory than females. Notably, both sexes improved their memory performance on the visual tests more than the auditory tests. An application of these results could be used as therapeutic exercises to help strengthen the memory of patients who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and other memory loss.
The Carrot and the Stick
Authors: Echambadi Mira , Chennamaneni Pavan Rao
Published: July 2021

After I helped construct a school in Guatemala, I found their educational system might be corrupt. I used game theory, or the study of strategic interdependence, to analyze this issue. Each actor anticipates the other’s reactions and acts accordingly. Payoff matrices, 2-by-2 grids in which one actor’s options are listed across the top of the boxes and the second actor’s options are listed by the left side of the boxes, helped simplify this complex situation into a workable model that shows individual incentives and actions as well as the collective best action for societal welfare. If the first player makes “x” choice rather than “y” choice, is the second player incentivized to make “a” or “b” choice? Conversely, if the first player makes “y” choice, is the second player incentivized to make “a” or “b” choice? If, for a particular choice, no player can do better by unilaterally changing its decision, it is a Nash equilibrium.

                Ideally, the government won’t receive a bribe, and the parents will send their children to volunteer. The penalty if the local government gets caught accepting a bribe plays an important role; interestingly, increasing the government's goodwill amongst the local population through the school-building process would also lead to the ideal outcome. Further, simultaneously increasing both the penalty from accepting a bribe, as well as the goodwill to the government from school-building, produces the optimal outcome. I call this the “carrot and the stick” approach, and it may prove quite effective in ending corruption entirely.
The Effect of Temperature on the Braking Force Experienced by Magnet Falling Through a Copper Pipe
Authors: Bansal Miyu , Duivestein John
Published: July 2021

The braking experienced by a magnet falling through a conductive pipe is often shown in laboratories, as it is highly intriguing and captures the imagination of students. The Eddy current is the physical phenomenon behind Eddy current braking, which has a lot of utility as Eddy current brakes do not utilise friction and hence do not wear. Linear eddy current brakes, often used on rail vehicles, use the rail as a conductor. Consequently, it is important to address the impact of the rail's properties. Previous papers have explored the significance of thickness and material however temperature has yet to be considered.

Here, coils were wrung around a copper pipe and an oscilloscope was used to determine the position of a neodymium magnet falling through pipe at various temperatures in order to determine the magnet’s terminal velocity. This data was then used to determine the braking force exerted by the pipe on the magnet. The experimental findings were compared to a theoretical model for the braking force. Graphing the inverse of the dragging constant and temperature showed a positive linear relationship suggesting that increasing the temperature reduces the braking force experienced by the magnet, which is in line with pre-existing theory that increasing the temperature will reduce conductivity, in turn reducing the eddy currents that cause the braking force.

Finally, this study establishes that temperature, and hence the weather plays a significant role and needs to be considered when designing eddy current based machines, such as magnetic brakes in high-speed trains.
The Effects of Cosmic and Ultraviolet Rays on Yeast and Seeds
Authors: Steinfeld Samara , Brustoloni Caroline , Bui Dat , Chothani Emma , Harhai Caitlin , Harrington Joseph , Kaluri Amrit , Klein Anna , LaDuke Duncan , Lee Sein , Miller Adam , Rose Tyler , Serrano William , Stentz Jason , Gullo Michael , Scalzo Vince
Published: July 2021

Cosmic and ultraviolet rays are pervasive and often difficult to avoid, for atmospheric pollution has caused an increase in harmful radiation reaching the Earth's surface due to the rapid depletion of the ozone layer. Because the deterioration of the ozone layer is a recent phenomenon, it is important to understand the rays’ effects on the DNA of organisms. It is also an area of interest in the field of astrobiology as humans begin to consider the possibility of long-term exposure of crops to these types of radiation in prolonged space travel. The Bioballoon project, described in this paper, was a payload for a weather balloon built to expose samples of yeast and seeds to cosmic and ultraviolet rays in the middle to upper stratosphere. After plating the yeast and planting the seeds, it was found that although cosmic and UV radiation appeared to induce mutations in yeast genes, they do not produce significant phenotypic differences in plants.
Hesitant language use and self-esteem in adolescent girls across ethnicity
Authors: Sopher Lucy , Puzio Angelica
Published: July 2021

Language is dynamic and changes across the course of adolescence. Researchers have found that usage of some words and phrases, such as “um…” and “I don’t know,” increase during the teenage years, especially when youth are confronted with topics that they may not feel comfortable discussing. Hesitant language is defined as words or styles of speech that communicate 1. a distancing of the declarative content of one's speech and 2. interpersonal sensitivity towards the listener. These phrases are typically used because one is nervous or unsure about what to say and they can signify a variety of issues and may or may not be linked to self-esteem. In this study, we analyzed eighth-grade girls’ usage of hesitant language and how the use of this type of language may or may not be correlated with their scores on the Rosenberg self-esteem test. We also ran an ANOVA to determine if there was a significant difference in correlation across ethnicity. Our current study is focused on eighth grade and we plan on expanding to include the 6th and 11th-grade data. There have been very few studies done on how hesitant language and self-esteem correlate and change through girls’ adolescence. We hope our study will help add to the important conversation around girls' self-esteem and what can be used as indicators of a change in that self-esteem over time.