bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Segmentation of Medical Image Based on Superpixel Boundary Perceptual Convolutional Network in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Yi Xiaochun , Hou Jing
Published: October 2020

In order to reduce the computational complexity of breast tumor segmentation algorithms and improve the accuracy of breast segmentation, this paper proposes a breast tumor segmentation method based on super pixel boundary perceptual convolutional network. This method first uses super
pixel segmentation convolutional network algorithm to segment breast medical images, and then uses region growth algorithm to achieve breast tumor segmentation at super pixel level. The research results show that in the classification of breast tumors, the fusion efficiency based on the classifier
level is better than the fusion based on the feature set; the index R proposed and adopted in this paper can effectively select the appropriate individual classifier and generate a better performing integration 06%. Classifier, the accuracy of this classifier is 88.73%, the sensitivity is
97.06%. The method can be used to assist doctors in breast cancer diagnosis, improve the efficiency and accuracy of doctors' work diagnosis, and has certain significance for clinical research and large-scale screening of breast cancer.
Analysis of MRI Image-Assisted Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis Based on Support Vector Machine Algorithm
Authors: Gai Dasheng , Liu Songlin , Zhang Hanyuan , Kuang Xu , Lu Qun , Gong Wei , Xiang Xin , Li Hai
Published: October 2020

Objective: To discuss the diagnostic value of X-ray film and MRI of knee osteoarthritis by using support vector machine algorithm. Materials and Methods: The data of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint confirmed by open or arthroscopy surgery were collected
in this paper. A total of 23 knee joints were performed in 23 cases, and plain films and MRI were performed before surgery. The support vector machine algorithm was used to retrospectively analyze its image performance and compare the positive rates of the two inspection methods. Results:
The plain bone film showed better bone changes, and it could not show soft tissue lesions. MRI showed less changes in bone quality than plain films, and showed better changes in cartilage, meniscus degeneration, joint effusion, intra-articular free body, synovial thickening, bone marrow edema,
and soft tissue swelling. Conclusion: MRI provides more positive signs than plain film, and the diagnosis accuracy of knee osteoarthritis is higher than plain film.
Application of MRI Images Based on Autoregressive Model Algorithm in Diagnosis and Classification of Anal Fistula Disease
Authors: Tian Ping , Tong Guanhui , Wang Weilin
Published: October 2020

Objective: To analyze the accuracy of DWI-MRI combined with conventional MRI sequence in the diagnosis and classification of anal fistula, and to explore its application value. Methods: The clinical and imaging data of 56 patients with anal fistula confirmed by surgery
were collected. All patients underwent conventional MR scans (axial T1WI, T2WI and axial, coronary, sagittal T2WI fat suppression) and axial DWI. With the surgical pathology results as the gold standard, the diagnostic compliance rate of anal fistula inside and outside mouth, main fistula,
branch fistula, and abscess were observed and relied on both conventional sequence and conventional sequence combined with DWI. At the same time, the patients in this group were classified according to Parks classification of anal fistula, and the results were compared with the surgical results.
Results: Fifty-six patients with anal fistula were confirmed to have 7 simple anal fistulas and 49 complicated anal fistulas. According to Parks anal fistula classification, MRI diagnosed 7 cases of intersphincteric fistula, 24 cases of trans sphincteric type fistula, 16 cases of superior
sphincteric type fistula, and included 9 cases of rectal vaginal/scrotal fistula into the scope of extra-sphincteric fistula. The overall coincidence rate of scores was 87.5% (49/56). Conclusion: In preoperative MRI examination of anal fistula, compared with relying only on conventional
sequences, the combined use of DWI sequences has higher accuracy in displaying the inner, outer and branch fistulas, and provides more detailed images before clinical operation. Anatomical information should be applied as a routine examination sequence for preoperative diagnosis of anal fistula.
Effect of MRI Images Based on Semi-Automatic Volume Segmentation in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Ji Peng , Jiang Limin , Guo Xiangdong , Sun Yajing , Qu Xueping , Kou Qixing , Sun Gen , Liu Songcan
Published: October 2020

Objective: To study the MRI and CT characteristics of different periods of acute ischemic stroke and evaluate its diagnostic value by using semi-automatic mention segmentation method. Methods: CT, conventional MRI and DWI were performed in 64 patients with acute ischemic
stroke. The average ADC value and average relative ADC (rADC) value of infarct lesions were measured and statistically analyzed. Results: There were no significant differences in CT, conventional MRI, and DWI signal characteristics between 1 and 7 days after the onset of acute ischemic
stroke. The average ADC value and the average rADC value decreased, but the average rADC in the infarct area increased with time. The rADC value was statistically significant with the onset of 1d, 2d, 3d, and 4d (P < 0.05), but not statistically significant
with the onset of 5d and 6d (P > 0.05). Conclusion: In the image processing method of semi-automatic segmentation method, the characteristics of CT, conventional MRI, and DWI signals combined with the evolution of rADC values over time can help to judge the pathophysiological
changes of acute ischemic stroke, which is ischemic. Stroke staging and treatment guidance are provided.
Application of CT Image Based on Three-Dimensional Image Segmentation Algorithm in Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Liu Songlin , Gai Dasheng , Lu Qun , Zhang Hanyuan , Kuang Xu , Gong Wei , Xiang Xin , Li Hai
Published: October 2020

Objective: To investigate the application of multi-slice spiral CT in degenerative changes of lumbar facet joints using the LOG algorithm. Methods: The CT findings of 100 cases of degenerative vertebral facet joint disease were reviewed and analyzed in this paper. Results:
The main CT manifestations of facet disease are osteophyte formation, articular hyperplasia and hypertrophy, osteosclerosis, narrowing of joint space, articular surface destruction, joint capsule calcification, joint gas accumulation, joint subluxation, and lateral recesses and vertebrae.
Signs such as narrow mesopores. Conclusion: The multi-slice spiral CT (MSCT) and multi-planar reconstruction (MPR) techniques are analyzed by the LOG operator algorithm. It is found that the two techniques can fully display the anatomical structure and pathological changes of the vertebral
facet joints, and are useful for the diagnosis of facet joint disease. Provide enough imaging evidence.
Analysis of the Effect of Three-Dimensional MRI Reconstruction of Human Placenta in Cesarean Section of Placenta Previa
Authors: Zhao Keyong , Huang Zhongli , Jian Yuanli , Duan Yaping
Published: October 2020

Objective: To explore the characteristics of three-dimensional ultrasound reconstruction and MRI imaging of placenta previa combined with placental implantation, and to compare its diagnostic accuracy. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 26 cases of ultrasound imaging
data that were initially confirmed as placenta previa and had a high risk of placenta implantation in pregnant women (maternal age ≥35 years, history of multiple abortions, and history of previous cesarean section) feature. The analysis results were compared with the intraoperative conditions
and postoperative medical examination results. Imaging of placenta previa has its characteristic features. The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 3D ultrasound reconstruction and MRI in the diagnosis of placenta previa combined with placenta were compared and analyzed.
Results: Twenty-one patients were confirmed as placental implants after operation. The placenta previa with placenta accrete was about 1800 m1 during delivery and postpartum, which was significantly more than those without concomitant placenta implantation. Hysterectomy in one case with
placental implantation. MRI accuracy was 65% (17/26), sensitivity was 80%, and specificity was 20%. The accuracy of ultrasound 3D reconstruction was 81% (21/26), the sensitivity was 89%, and the specificity was 67%. There was no significant difference between the two P > 0.05.
Conclusions: Placenta previa with placenta implantation is associated with a high incidence of placenta and placental implantation in pregnant women at high risk, and it poses a huge threat to the life of the mother and child at the termination of pregnancy. Both 3D ultrasound reconstruction
and MRI can accurately diagnose placental implantation. The estimation of the difficulty and prognosis of surgery has great diagnostic value.
Clinical Study of Percutaneous Puncture Radiofrequency Ablation Guided by CT Image Information Technology in Patients with Secondary Hyperparathyroidism of Uremia
Authors: Pan Chunqin , Zhou Xuecai , Sun Wenzhong , Fu Dou , Liu Jie
Published: October 2020

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness and safety of CT-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) in chronic renal failure. Methods: Thirty patients with SHPT in our hospital were selected as the study subjects.
Preoperative CT examinations confirmed that there were 1 to 4 hyperplastic parathyroid tissues. Under the guidance of CT, radiofrequency ablation of the hyperplastic parathyroid tissues was performed to detect ablation The levels of PTH, blood Ca, and blood P before and after 10 min, 1 d,
1 week, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year of ablation were observed to observe the improvement of clinical symptoms and the occurrence of complications. Results: First, the patients' blood PTH levels at 10 min, 1 d, 1 week, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year after ablation were significantly
lower than those before the ablation (P < 0.05); 10 min, 1 d, Blood Ca levels at 1 week, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year were significantly lower than those before ablation (P < 0.05); 10 min, 1 d, 1 week, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 month after ablation The blood P level
in 2015 was significantly lower than that before ablation (P < 0.05). Second, the symptoms of bone pain, itching of the skin, muscle weakness, and anorexia were significantly improved after ablation, and hoarseness occurred in 3 cases. The rate was 10%, all of which remitted spontaneously
within 1 week after operation; 2 cases of severe hypocalcemia occurred with a rate of 6.6%. All patients had remission after timely calcium supplementation, and all patients did not relapse. Conclusion: CT-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective method for
the treatment of SHPT, which can significantly improve the symptoms of renal bone disease and improve the quality of life.
Application of CT Image Scanning Technology Based on Iris Algorithm in Clinical Diagnosis of Patients with Hepatobiliary Stones
Authors: Wei Xianglei , Cui Ling , Li Zhenhuan , Yi Wang , Chen Xu , Ying Jinwei
Published: October 2020

Objective: To investigate the value of multi-slice spiral CT in the diagnosis of extrahepatic bile duct stones using Iris algorithm. Methods: 66 cases of extrahepatic bile duct stones underwent plain and enhanced multiline spiral CT. Observe the density, size, location
and number of stones during the plain scan. According to the venous phase enhanced scan, the extrahepatic bile duct wall ≥2 mm was used as the thickening criterion to evaluate the stone density, size, number, and composition ratio of the site and its relationship with tube wall thickening.
Results: A total of 57 cases of stones of different densities were found on CT. Nine cases of stones of equal density were not identified. Among the 56 cases with thickened wall, 87.50% (49/56) were concentric and 12.50% (7/56) were eccentric. The wall thickening occurred 62.50% (35/56)
below the stone; 17.86% (10/56) was located on the level or above the stone, and 8.93% (5/56) was above the stone. 6 cases (6/56) (10.71%) showed extensive tube wall thickening, all caused by multiple stones. Conclusion: In the study of extrahepatic bile duct stones using the Iris algorithm,
it was found that most concentric circular tube wall thickening occurred on or below the stone level. When plain CT scan does not show clear bile duct stones, and this phenomenon appears in the portal vein phase of enhanced scan, the possibility of stones should be considered.
Effect of Mental Nursing Intervention Under Magnetic Resonance Imaging on the Postoperative Outcome of Stent Therapy in Patients with Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Jiang Shuyin , Zhang Jingxiong
Published: October 2020

To explore the effect of different nursing intervention on the prognosis of esophageal stenting in patients with esophageal cancer, 160 patients with advanced esophageal cancer who accepted treatment in our hospital from January 2014 to December 2018 were the research objects. Firstly,
the maximum variance method was used to segment the dynamic enhanced Magnetic Resonance Image of the patient's esophagus. Then the gray co-occurrence matrix was used to extract the features of the image. The patients were then randomly divided into the control group (CP) (n = 72) and
the experimental group (EP) (n = 78). The CP received routine nursing intervention during the perioperative period, while the experimental group received psychiatric nursing intervention during the perioperative period, and the experimental group of patients in the perioperative period
were also given a certain spiritual nursing intervention in addition to the routine nursing. All patients were treated with esophageal stenting. Anxiety scores of the two groups were compared one day before and six days after surgery. Pain was scored on day 1, 3, 5 and 7 after surgery. The
satisfaction degree of patients with nursing work on discharge was investigated. Patients were followed up for 2 years after discharge to compare the complication rate. Finally, the correlation between postoperative complications and anxiety and pain score was compared. The results showed
that the proposed algorithm could effectively segment the esophagus of patients; the postoperative anxiety score, pain score, and complication rate of the experimental group were lower than that of the CP, and the difference was statistically significant (SS) (P < 0.05); the nursing
satisfaction score of the experimental group was higher than that of the CP, and the difference was SS (P < 0.05); postoperative chest pain, nausea and fever complications were positively correlated with postoperative pain score and anxiety score (P < 0.05), which showed
that mental nursing can effectively reduce the complication rate of esophageal stenting in patients with esophageal cancer (EC) and was beneficial to the prognosis of patients.
Correlation Between Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter and Intracranial Pressure Based on Ultrasonography
Authors: Pan Nifang , Xie Jie , He Jian , Wen Shun , Xu Chunyang , Zheng Feng , Ye Hongwei
Published: October 2020

Objective: This paper measures whether there is any difference between the non-invasive monitoring technology that shows the change in ICP value and the current "gold standard" intraventricular probe-type intracranial pressure monitoring technology. Methods: 61 critically
ill patients with traumatic brain injury requiring invasive ICP monitoring in the intensive care unit of our hospital from April 2017 to September 2017 were selected. The study subjects were selected in strict accordance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria of experimental design. Each
patient recorded the ICP values before and after intravenous drip of 20% mannitol 125 ml, and received ultrasound measurements at bedside by two different physicians before, after, 10 minutes, and 30 minutes after ICP changes. Results: The consistency of the ONSD values measured by
different doctors at the same time was the same, and the repeatability of the bedside ultrasound measurement of the ONSD values was better. There was no significant difference between the ONSD value measured immediately after the ICP drop and the ONSD value before the ICP drop. There was a
significant difference between the ONSD value measured 10 minutes after the ICP drop and the ONSD value before the ICP drop. However, there was no significant difference in the value of ONSD measured between 10 minutes and 30 minutes after the ICP decreased. Conclusion: ONSD reflects
that the lag time window of ICP changes is within 10 minutes, but the measured values of ONSD within the 20-minute period from 10 minutes to 30 minutes after ICP changes can better reflect the current ICP values.
Analysis of the Effect of Intra-Articular Injection of Platelet-Rich Plasma on Knee Arthritis Pain Based on MRI Image Segmentation Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Ying , Ruan Mo , Tan Hongbo , Chen Ming , Xu Yongqing
Published: October 2020

Objective: To study the effect of bone marrow platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection on osteoarthritis using a level set-based MRI image segmentation algorithm. Methods: 180 patients with knee osteoarthritis (206 knees) were randomly divided into observation group (92 knees)
and control group (88 knees). The observation group was injected with 2 mL of enriched stem cells and PRP suspension in the joint cavity, and then injected once again after 6 weeks. The control group was injected with 2 mL of sodium hyaluronate in the joint cavity, once a week for a total
of 5 times. After 3 months and 6 months of treatment, the patients were followed up, and the clinical efficacy of the two groups was evaluated by the WOMAC score. The MRI image segmentation of the patients was analyzed using the level set-based MRI image segmentation method. Results:
The WOMAC score observation group was 45.88 ± 9.54 points before treatment, 25.26 ± 6.67 points 3 months after treatment, 22.44 ± 5.19 points 6 months after treatment; the control group was 46.76 ± 8.06 points before treatment and 32.12 ± 5.35 3 months after
treatment. Points, 33.34 ± 6.32 points 6 months after treatment. The WOMAC score of the observation group and the control group was improved after treatment, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05) compared with that before treatment. Conclusion:
The observation group has a clear effect on the treatment of knee osteoarthritis and is worthy of clinical application.
Study on the Diagnostic Value of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients with Malignant Glioma
Authors: Wang Daoying , Li Haiyang , Niu Jingjing
Published: October 2020

Objective: To explore the value of multi-voxel-based monomer 1H-MRS (magnetic resonance imaging) in the classification of gliomas. Methods: 26 gliomas confirmed by surgery and pathology were examined by conventional MRI, multi-voxel 2D, and monomer 1H-MRS before surgery. Three
types of regions of interest (ROI) were used to measure Cho/NAA (Choline hydroxide solution/N-acetyl aspartic acid) values in the tumor. Methods: In the multi-voxel 2D hydrogen proton spectrum, the solid part of the tumor or the most intensive region of the tumor was selected to determine
the Cho/NAA value. At the same time, in the multi-voxel 2D hydrogen proton spectrum, the Fun/tool spectra's copy-2DBmin analysis software was used to obtain the Cho/NAA value distribution. Anatomically superimposed the pseudo-color image, and measure the Cho/NAA value in its largest Cho/NAA
value region. In addition, based on the level set algorithm, it uses the Otsu algorithm to initially locate the edema area and provide the initial contour. Results: The Cho/NAA values measured by the ROI selection method were statistically significant, and the sensitivity and specificity
of judging the benign and malignant gliomas indicated that Method 3 had the highest diagnostic value. Conclusion: Multi-voxel-based monomeric 1H-MRS magnetic resonance imaging has the highest value in guiding glioma classification and can improve the accuracy of glioma classification.
Research on Bone Age Automatic Judgment Algorithm Based on Deep Learning and Hand X-ray Image
Authors: Shen Xiang , Zhu Feng , Sun Zhi , Zhao Shuli
Published: October 2020

Objective: To learn the depth of paper using feature extraction, combined with critical areas of heat syndrome and related information, X-ray image of hand to analyze bone age children. Methods: The thesis of the X-ray image data preprocessing left hand, the use of depth
of depth neural network learning methods, combined with clinical data skeletal age evaluation model to evaluate the effectiveness of the test model. Results: X-ray image of hand artificial feature extraction, combined SVM classification, automatic assessment of skeletal age. The method
of automatic assessment of bone age SVM-based feature primarily artificial, SIFT features extracted image, LBP features, characteristics of GCLM, these features are combined, and then used to train the SVM, have some ability to automatically assess bone age assessment based on SVM. Conclusion:
This topic X-ray image based on the hand bones, computer vision, machine learning to extract the relevant methods, pretreatment and segmentation of X-ray images of the hand bones, characterized by automatic assessment of bone age, lack the core image of the sample problem.
3D Finite Element Analysis of the Effects of Lefort I Corticotomy on the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and Maxilla in Skeletal Class III Malocclusion Patients
Authors: Mejbel Mohamed , Alosman Hala Sadek , Uyanik Lokman Onur
Published: October 2020

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of Lefort I corticotomy using two skeletally anchored maxillary protraction protocols on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and maxilla of skeletal class III malocclusion patients using three-dimensional finite element
analysis. Methods: Protraction forces of 500 gm per side were applied on maxilla with two different types of Lefort I corticotomy, type A and type B osteotomy using two skeletally anchored maxillary protraction appliances: skeletally anchored facemask and bone-anchored with class III
traction. Results: For the facemask appliance the osteotomy types presented clockwise rotation in contrast with bone-anchored with class III traction which showed counter-clockwise rotation. Within the sagittal plane, the most significant amount of anterior displacement was associated
with bone-anchored with class III traction type A osteotomy. For the temporomandibular joint, the maximum stress distribution was concentrated in the anterior aspect condyle and superior aspect of the glenoid fossa for the two appliances. However, the stress distribution in bone-anchored with
class III traction was more than skeletally anchored facemask. Conclusion: Using Lefort I corticotomy can be a useful alternative for maxillary protraction in adult patients. Bone anchored with class III traction was more effective for maxillary forward displacement than skeletally
anchored facemask. However, the stress distribution on TMJ in bone-anchored was more than that in the facemask. However, the amount of rotation in type A cutting was more than in type B cutting.
Clinical Application of Doppler Ultrasound Imaging Technology in Thumb Reconstruction
Authors: Lu Yefeng , Chen Ping , Huang Xuehui , Zhou Junhui , Shen Dan
Published: October 2020

Objective: In order to increase the survival rate of clinical thumb reconstruction, the Doppler ultrasound (DU) imaging technology based on the minimum variance adaptive beamforming (MV) algorithm is applied to the preoperative examination of thumb reconstruction. Method:
75 patients who needed thumb reconstruction were divided into 40 study group and 35 traditional group. Before operation, color Doppler ultrasound was used to examine saphenous vein, radial artery in the receiving area, dorsalis pedis artery and cephalic vein in the donor area to determine
whether there was abnormality. In addition, the branch type of toe web and the Gilbert type of the first dorsal metatarsal artery were examined and confirmed. Through ultrasound examination, the operation plan was determined. In the traditional group, through doctor's pen Doppler auscultation
or touch feeling, the great saphenous vein-dorsalis pedis vein-dorsal metatarsal veins-dorsal digital veins of foot was dissected in the traditional way without ultrasonic examination. The MV algorithm was used to process the ultrasonic image. Results: The ultrasonic image processed
by MV algorithm is clearer and higher quality. There is no absence of dorsalis pedis artery in the contralateral donor area in 75 patients. There is no vascular crisis in the study group and one patient in the traditional group. The average operation time in the Gilbert III study group is
90 minutes, compared with 135 minutes in the traditional group. There is no walking pain of donor foot in the study group after Gilbert III operation, and there are three walking pain in the traditional group. Conclusion: The MV algorithm can be used in thumb reconstruction. It can
detect the branch type of toe web and the Gilbert type of the first dorsal metatarsal artery. On this basis, the operation plan can be determined, which can reduce the blindness of the operation, shorten the operation time, increase the survival rate of the reconstructed thumb, and reduce
the incidence of complications of the donor foot.
Design of Eye Health Monitoring System Under Color Fundus Image Visual Cup Segmentation Algorithm
Authors: Wang Hairong , Yan Zonghui
Published: October 2020

In order to study the application of color fundus image (CFI) visual cup segmentation (VCS) algorithm in the design of eye health monitoring system and solve the problem that traditional image processing technology requires artificial design features, which is time-consuming, laborious,
and inaccurate, deep learning (DL) algorithm is combined with residual neural network (RNN) to propose a new eye health monitoring system based on CFI VCS algorithm. Firstly, the forward propagation (FP) algorithm and back propagation (BP) algorithm of DL are theoretically derived and improved.
Then, the eye health monitoring and image processing system is designed and optimized with RNN. Finally, the effect analysis VCS of the system is carried out on the real data center platform; the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of image processing are compared with the traditional manual
processing technology and the general residual network technology. The results show that the results of RIM-ONE data set and Glaucoma Repo data set are consistent with the expert standard; in the RIM-ONE data set, the accuracy rate, sensitivity, and specificity of traditional manual processing
technology are 69.68%, 71.38%, and 74.71% respectively; the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of common residual network technology are 81.89%, 80.56%, and 86.82% respectively; the accuracy of the system is 93.57%, the sensitivity is 87.31%, and the specificity is 90.16%. In the Glaucoma
Repo data set, the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of conventional manual processing technology are 75.28%, 73.35%, and 82.63% respectively; the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of common residual network technology are 82.74%, 81.49%, and 88.82% respectively; the accuracy, sensitivity,
and specificity of the system are 94.66%, 91.33%, and 94.22% respectively, which show that the system has a good effect on the segmentation of CFI, can adapt to various features of the image, has a high degree of accuracy and robustness, and provides a new way of thinking for the monitoring
and management of eye health in daily life.
Assimilation, Heterolocalism and Ethnic Capital: The Case of an Immigrant Indian Community in America
Authors: Mukherjee Anirban , Pattnaik Binay Kumar
Published: October 2020

The article examines the assimilation dynamics and functioning of ethnic organisations of a small immigrant Bengali community in the Kansas City, USA. Indian Bengalis in Overland Park (a suburban neighbourhood) formed a closely knit group and bonding social capital was sustained through activities of ethnic associations, consumption of ethnic amenities, and through weekend parties/get-togethers. Such ethnic bonding and meagre ethnic/racial diversity in the city (compared to the larger cities of the USA) are found to be contributing to slow and limited assimilation of Bengalis to the American society. These findings challenge the existing erudition that assimilation increases with improvement in socio-economic standing and suburbanisation of immigrants. Further, the article finds that assimilation there is segmental and ethnic associations not only provide a comfort zone to the immigrants in a culturally and racially different country but also play a prominent role in preserving the ethnic identity of its members.
Narrating Fear, Tracing Landscape: Memory and Militancy ka Daur in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Mahajan Chakraverti
Published: October 2020

Jammu and Kashmir has been a theatre of conflict for almost three decades now. After the outbreak of militancy in 1989–1990 in the Kashmir valley, Doda belt was the first area outside the valley where armed conflict made inroads and affected lives variedly. Based on ethnographic field work, this paper addresses three interrelated questions about the manifestation of militancy in Doda: first, how did the armed struggle for the control of landscape invoke fear ( dehshat) in people and affect their way of living? Second, how did the violence by both non-state and state actors to seek control and assert power transform the local landscape itself? Third, how did the locals negotiate with shifting landscapes embedded with fear and memories of violence? I approach these questions through memory ethnography of the times of militancy ( militancy ka daur). Based on conversations, narratives and participant observation, the article shows that militancy and resultant armed conflict sowed fear in people’s lives and altered their relation with space and time in multiple ways. Actors involved in the armed conflict shaped the local landscape by resorting to spatial strategies to control territory and exercise power through fear. As a consequence, locals negotiated with the landscape of fear by conforming to outright commands and through silence. Although militancy ka daur has passed in Doda, the paper argues that it has left deep imprints upon the collective memory of the people.
The Improbability of a Temple: Hindu Mobilization and Urban Space in the Delhi Shiv Mandir Agitation of 1938
Authors: Baul Deepasri
Published: October 2020

The 1920s and 1930s were decades of intense religious polarization and violence in many parts of British India. These decades were also especially empowering ones for Hindu nationalist organizations in Delhi. So, it rankled Hindu leaders that Delhi’s built environment had a dearth of Hindu sacred structures to attest to their power, on account of the city’s past status as a Mughal capital. Instead, transitory spatial markers of local veneration made up its somewhat ephemeral Hindu sacred geography. The Shiv Mandir agitation of 1938 was a collective attempt by Hindu volunteers to forcibly occupy government land in a prominent arena of the city as a symbolic restitution of this historical inequality. The agitation itself had two parts—first, the occupation of a plot of land as a temple and, second, the aggregation of legal arguments supporting ownership of the plot for the Hindu public. By combining these two strategies, the Shiv Mandir agitation laid out the political and legal preconditions necessary for the production of a more conspicuous and enduring material landscape of organized Hindu religiosity in the city. Through this process, Hindu nationalist organizations consolidated themselves as the ultimate public custodians of temples and temple land. This was a powerful role that drew its prestige in good measure from control over prime urban property.
The Question of Dalit Conversion in the 1930s
Authors: Wanchoo Rohit
Published: October 2020

In June 1936, the Hindu Mahasabha leader B. S. Moonje and the Dalit leader and trenchant critic of Hinduism Dr B. R. Ambedkar jointly proposed mass conversions of the ‘untouchables’ to Sikhism. According to Ambedkar, if the untouchables converted to Sikhism, they would leave the Hindu religion but not Hindu culture. The untouchable converts to Sikhism would escape caste oppression without getting ‘denationalized’. This initiative provoked a major controversy, and leaders as diverse as M. M. Malaviya, Mahatma Gandhi, M. C. Rajah and P. N. Rajabhoj expressed their views on the subject. This article explores what Ambedkar meant by expressions like ‘de-nationalization’ and ‘Hindu culture’. Malaviya’s anxieties about the weakening of the Hindu community because of this initiative, Rajah’s fear that mass conversions could lead to a Sikh–Hindu–Muslim problem at a national level, Gandhi’s emphasis on spiritual values and the voluntary removal of untouchability in a spirit of repentance, and Tagore’s universalist and humanist attitude towards religion are explored. The complex political and intellectual responses of Hindu and Dalit leaders to the proposed mass conversions to Sikhism in the mid-1930s reveal dimensions not often considered in mainstream narratives about Hindu nationalism or Dalit conversions.
An Empirical Investigation of Industry 4.0 Preparedness in India
Authors: Singhal Neeraj
Published: October 2020

The term ‘Industry 4.0’ or the fourth Industrial Revolution refers to the addition of smart technology to traditional manufacturing and industrial practices. This practice was first introduced by the German government in the year 2011 to empower its economy. The trend steadily gained roots and spread to other countries across the globe. This study explores the preparedness of select Indian industries to implement Industry 4.0, or in other words, build smart factories using innovative technologies. It also throws light on the benefits, challenges, drivers and barriers to Industry 4.0 in the Indian context. Based on data from corporate executives, it also highlights issues and challenges related to investment cost, skills gap and data security in implementing Industry 4.0. The study also provides a framework for a mapping application to map the qualities, benefits and challenges faced by selected Indian industries at two levels: concept implementation and the full implementation.
East Asian Civilization and the Problem of Region Making
Authors: Pakhomov Oleg
Published: October 2020

The paper examines East Asia as regional civilization whose enduring characteristics emerged from long-term relations towards the Chinese model of a centralized state. The civilizational approach helps to understand the interrelation between different aspects of the region, such as politics, economy or culture. Chinese statehood relied on the principle of total power unrestricted by any norms of morality or laws and its neutralization by non-state institutions and informal networks. These two aspects helped to maintain a dynamic equilibrium of the political system and adapt it towards internal and external changes. The adoption of Chinese statehood came into contradiction with Korean and Japanese natural and social characteristics. This produced risks for the internal political legitimacy of political systems constructed according to the Chinese model in both countries. Necessity to preserve internal legitimacy encouraged external expansion of Imperial China and forced Korea and Japan to resist Sinocentric order but continue to adapt Chinese influence to local conditions. This contradiction defined reality of East Asian region during the traditional period, influenced its transition to modernity and remains relevant today.
Activities related to inflammatory bowel disease management during and after the coronavirus disease 2019 lockdown in Italy: How to maintain standards of care
Authors: Saibeni Simone , Scucchi Ludovica , Dragoni Gabriele , Bezzio Cristina , Miranda Agnese , Ribaldone Davide Giuseppe , Bertani Angela , Bossa Fabrizio , Allocca Mariangela , Buda Andrea , Mocci Gianmarco , Soriano Alessandra , Mazzuoli Silvia , Bertani Lorenzo , Baccini Flavia , Loddo Erika , Privitera Antonino Carlo , Sartini Alessandro , Viscido Angelo , Grossi Laurino , Casini Valentina , Gerardi Viviana , Ascolani Marta , Di Ruscio Mirko , Casella Giovanni , Savarino Edoardo , Stradella Davide , Pumpo Rossella , Cortelezzi Claudio Camillo , Daperno Marco , Ciardo Valeria , Nardone Olga Maria , Caprioli Flavio , Vitale Giovanna , Cappello Maria , Comberlato Michele , Alvisi Patrizia , Festa Stefano , Campigotto Michele , Bodini Giorgia , Balestrieri Paola , Viola Anna , Pugliese Daniela , Armuzzi Alessandro , Fantini Massimo C , Fiorino Gionata ,   IG‐IBD (Italian Group for the study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
Published: October 2020

Background and aims

Restructuring activities have been necessary during the lockdown phase of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. Few data are available on the post‐lockdown phase in terms of health‐care procedures in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) care, and no data are available specifically from IBD units. We aimed to investigate how IBD management was restructured during the lockdown phase, the impact of the restructuring on standards of care and how Italian IBD units have managed post‐lockdown activities.

Methods

A web‐based online survey was conducted in two phases (April and June 2020) among the Italian Group for IBD affiliated units within the entire country. We investigated preventive measures, the possibility of continuing scheduled visits/procedures/therapies because of COVID‐19 and how units resumed activities in the post‐lockdown phase.

Results

Forty‐two referral centres participated from all over Italy. During the COVID‐19 lockdown, 36% of first visits and 7% of follow‐up visits were regularly done, while >70% of follow‐up scheduled visits and 5% of first visits were done virtually. About 25% of scheduled endoscopies and bowel ultrasound scans were done. More than 80% of biological therapies were done as scheduled. Compared to the pre‐lockdown situation, 95% of centres modified management of outpatient activity, 93% of endoscopies, 59% of gastrointestinal ultrasounds and 33% of biological therapies. Resumption of activities after the lockdown phase may take three to six months to normalize. Virtual clinics, implementation of IBD pathways and facilities seem to be the main factors to improve care in the future.

Conclusion

Italian IBD unit restructuring allowed quality standards of care during the COVID‐19 pandemic to be maintained. A return to normal appears to be feasible and achievable relatively quickly. Some approaches, such as virtual clinics and identified IBD pathways, represent a valid starting point to improve IBD care in the post‐COVID‐19 era.
Social and Financial Efficiency: A Study of Indian Microfinance Institutions
Authors: Chauhan Swati
Published: October 2020

Microfinance institutions (MFIs) provides savings, credit, insurance and remittance facilities to more impoverished people without any collateral. MFIs have twin goals: social outreach and financial sustainability. Outreach refers to how many people are served by MFIs while the capacity of MFIs to serve longer is financial sustainability. The social and financial performance of MFIs is the most debatable issue in the Indian microfinance industry. Social efficiency indicates MFIs’ willingness to support a higher number of poorer consumers while financial efficiency indicates how long financial services can be offered to the poor by institutions. The success of these organizations is very critical for the continuity of funding support for donor agencies and the government. Using data envelopment analysis (DEA) techniques this paper calculates the efficiency of Indian NGO–MFIs. The research also uses Tobit regression to estimate the factors of the efficiency of MFIs. The data is taken from the Microfinance Information Exchange for the period 2009 to 2015. Results indicate that NGO–MFIs are financially more efficient than social ones. Regression findings show that the critical variable for the financial and social efficiency of NGO–MFIs is operational self-sufficiency (OSS). Very few empirical studies are available in the Indian context that discuss the efficiency of Indian NGO–MFIs. The present paper provides standards for performance measures of NGO–MFIs operating in India to assist in improving the performance and growth of microfinance firms.
Qualitätsbewußtsein. Komponenten, Prozesse und Maßnahmen
Authors: Müller Günter F.
Published: October 2020

Merkmale traditioneller und moderner Qualitätskonzepte werden einander gegenüber gestellt. Die Bedeutung des Wissens um psychologische Facetten qualitätsbewußten Arbeitsverhaltens wird erläutert. Perzeptuelle, kognitive, affektive, motivationale lind kompetenzspezijische Bewußtseinsprozesse werden analysiert und beschrieben, Bedingungen eines erfolgreichen Bewußtseinswandels skizziert und Schlußfolgerungen fur personalpsychologischfundierte Steuerungsmoglichkeiten gezogen.
Spezifisches Humankapital: Ökonomische Theorie und betriebliche Praxis
Authors: Knoll Leonhard , Koss Bernhard
Published: October 2020

Zur Sicherung der Erträge von spezifischen Humankapitalinvestitionen wird in der Theorie üblicherweise eine Beteiligung des Arbeitnehmers an der Finanzierung der Investition vorgeschlagen. Bisherige empirische Auswertungen lassen demgegenüber nur geringe Aufwendungen der Arbeitnehmer für entsprechende Aus- und Weiterbildungsmaßnahmen erkennen. Um genauere Rückschlüsse in bezug auf die Motive, die Probleme sowie die Kalkulation (vor allem) spezifischer Humankapitalinvestitionen zu erhalten, wurde von den Autoren eine Unternehmensbefragung durchgeführt. Die Antworten auf den weitgehend standardisierten Fragebogen zeigen, daß das Sicherungsproblem in der Praxis meist mit anderen Instrumenten behandelt und die Quantifizierung entsprechender Planungen vernachlässigt wird. Für die Humankapitalfinanzierung sollten deshalb vor allem Risikoteilungsaspekte stärker beachtet werden, während die Humanvermögensrechnung offensichtlich von einer allgemeinen Verbreitung selbst in vergleichsweise großen Unternehmen noch weit entfernt ist. In beiden Bereichen besteht noch ein großer Handlungsbedarf zur Überbrückung der ersichtlichen Kluft zwischen Theorie und Praxis.
Book review: Suraj Yengde, Caste Matters
Authors: Sonpimple Upendra
Published: October 2020

Suraj Yengde, Caste Matters. Haryana: Penguin Random House India Publication, 2019, 304 pp. ₹599 (Hardcover), ISBN: 978-0670091225.
White matter alterations in autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in relation to sensory profile
Authors: Ohta Haruhisa , Aoki Yuta Y. , Itahashi Takashi , Kanai Chieko , Fujino Junya , Nakamura Motoaki , Kato Nobumasa , Hashimoto Ryu-ichiro
Published: October 2020

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have high rates of co-occurrence and share atypical behavioral characteristics, including sensory symptoms. The present diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) study was conducted to examine whether and how white matter alterations are observed in adult populations with developmental disorders (DD) and to determine how brain–sensory relationships are either shared between or distinct to ASD and ADHD.

Methods

We collected DTI data from adult population with DD (a primary diagnosis of ASD: n = 105, ADHD: n = 55) as well as age- and sex-matched typically developing (TD) participants (n = 58). Voxel-wise fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity, axial diffusivity, and radial diffusivity (RD) were analyzed using tract-based spatial statistics. The severities of sensory symptoms were assessed using the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP).

Results

Categorical analyses identified voxel clusters showing significant effects of DD on FA and RD in the posterior portion of the corpus callosum and its extension in the right hemisphere. Furthermore, regression analyses using the AASP scores revealed that slopes in relationships of FA or RD with the degree of sensory symptoms were parallel between the two DDs in large parts of the affected corpus callosum regions. A small but significant cluster did exist showing difference in association between an AASP subscale score and RD across ASD and ADHD.

Limitations

Wide age range of the participants may be oversimplified.

Conclusions

These results indicate that white matter alteration and their relationships to sensory symptoms are largely shared between ASD and ADHD, with localized abnormalities showing significant between-diagnosis differences within DD.
Ureteroiliac artery fistula caused by full-length metallic ureteral stenting in a malignant ureteral obstruction: a case report
Authors: Miyauchi Yasuyuki , Osaki Yu , Naito Hirohito , Tsunemori Hiroyuki , Itoh Megumi , Kanenishi Kenji , Norikane Takashi , Sanomura Takayuki , Nishiyama Yoshihiro , Sugimoto Mikio
Published: October 2020

Background

The metallic stent is a new device for relieving the urinary tract in patients with malignant ureteral obstruction with short life expectancy and has been used frequently worldwide for its efficacy and safety. A ureteroarterial fistula with indwelling ureteral stent is rare but highly fatal, and there are several reports of ureteroarterial fistula treated by conventional polymer stents, although there are no reports on metallic stents. To our knowledge, this paper describes the first case of a ureteroiliac artery fistula caused by a full-length metallic ureteral stent in malignant ureteral obstruction.

Case presentation

Our patient was a 57-year-old Asian woman with a history of locally advanced cervical cancer who underwent abdominal total hysterectomy and chemoradiotherapy. She was diagnosed with right hydronephrosis and hydroureter secondary to upper ureteral obstruction because of retroperitoneal lymph node metastasis. A urinary tract obstruction after placement of 12 months of polymer stent followed by 18 months of metallic stent was relieved, consequently resulting in intermittent gross hematuria with bladder tamponade and anemia. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography could not reveal a ureteroarterial fistula; however, retrograde pyelography emphasized the existence of a ureteroiliac artery fistula. The patient underwent successful endovascular heparin-bonded stent graft placement, and her gross hematuria disappeared thereafter.

Conclusion

The metallic stent is a useful device for patients with malignant ureteral obstruction with a short life expectancy, although it may impose a higher pressure on the extraureteral tissue than conventional polymer stents due to its properties and may cause a ureteroarterial fistula. The narrowing of the external iliac artery diameter visualized by computed tomography may be helpful for predicting ureteroarterial fistulas.