bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Effects of Three Sequences of Moves for Teaching Selected Mathematical Concepts to College Students
Authors: Catanzano Robert , Godwin Wanda
Published: August 2020

Thirty undergraduate students enrolled in a mathematics course for the elementary teacher were randomly assigned to three experimental groups. Each group was taught three unrelated mathematical concepts by one of three different sequences of instructional moves--a characterization-exemplification (CE) sequence, an exemplification-characterization-exemplification (ECE) sequence, or an exemplification-characterization-exemplification (interrogative) (ECEI) sequence. The purpose was to determine the effects of these three sequences on immediate acquisition and short-term retention of the concepts. Applying the analysis of variance to a randomized blocks design revealed that for certain concepts: (a) the CE sequence was more effective than either the ECE or the ECEI sequence on an immediate acquisition subtest containing low level items, (b) the ECE sequence was more effective than the CE sequence on a short-term retention test containing high level items, and (c) both the CE and the ECE were more effective on an immediate acquisition test containing high level items. No other significant differences on any of the criterion tests were found.
Story Problems: Merely Confusing or Downright Befuddling?
Authors: Blankenship Colleen S. , Lovitt Thomas C.
Published: August 2020

This study investigated the effect of varying problem vocabulary on students' accuracy and speed in computing story problems. Twelve types of story problems were identified, with problem types based on the information contained in each problem. The daily performance of seven learning-disabled boys was measured over an 11-month period, with an average of 100 observations per student. The results indicated that problems containing extraneous information were computed more slowly and less accurately than any other class of problems. Student performance on initially difficult classes of problems was improved by using one of three simple teaching techniques: Reread (Technique I), Write (Technique II), and Reexamine Solution (Technique III).
Relations Among Piagetian Grouping Structures: A Training Study
Authors: Silver Edward
Published: August 2020

The possibility of clear relationships among the grouping structures was explored using a “transfer of training” strategy. Tests of number and substance conservation, class inclusion, and transitivity were administered to 55 first-grade students. Twenty-seven subjects were trained using a highly verbal procedure emphasizing class addition activities. On the posttests, trained subjects significantly improved their class inclusion (p<.001) and number conservation (p<.01) scores. However, no effects were found for substance conservation or transitivity. In general, the data indicated that relations among grouping structures do exist but do not conform to simple hypotheses.
A Forum for Researchers: Research Implications and Questions from the Year 04 NAEP Mathematics Assessment
Authors: Carpenter Thomas P. , Coburn Terrence G. , Reys Robert E. , Wilson James W.
Published: August 2020

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) conducted its first mathematics assessment during 1972–73, obtaining census data on 283 mathematics exercises and involving 9-year-olds, 13-year-olds, 17-year-olds, and young adults. Background information on NAEP and the mathematics assessment is abundantly available (see Merwin and Higgins, 1968; Foreman and Mehrens, 1971; Martin and Wilson, 1974; NAEP Newsletters). Selected results of the 1972–73 mathematics assessment have been discussed in a set of articles (Carpenter, Coburn, Reys, and Wilson, 1975a, 1975b).
An Evaluation of the Mathematics-Methods Program Involving the Study of Teaching Characteristics and Pupil Achievement in Mathematics
Authors: Thornton Carol Dodd
Published: August 2020

One element that should accompany the development of teacher education programs-and one that is often neglected (Elam, 1971)-is that of program assessment. Several techniques used in recent years have improved the quality of research in teacher education (Peck & Tucker, 1973) and can be applied to program evaluation. In particular, the use of observation instruments or some adaptation of the microteaching technique have helped educators to focus more clearly on and to delineate more carefully components of teacher/ pupil behavior in the interactive setting. An increasing number of process-product studies (which relate teacher characteristics to pupil achievement) have been noted (Rosenshine & Furst, 1973). Further, at the 1973 symposium of the American Educational Research Association. Popham described a teaching &performance test& paradigm that assesses teacher competency in terms of pupil achievement.
The Effects of History of Mathematics on Attitudes toward Mathematics of College Algebra Students
Authors: McBride Cecil C. , Rollins James H.
Published: August 2020

To determine the effects of the history of mathematics on the attitudes toward mathematics of college algebra students, an experiment was conducted in which a test group was exposed to historical items in the classroom and a control group received no such exposure. Analysis of a measure of attitude change indicated that there was a difference in attitude change for the two groups.
The Elementary School as a Training Laboratory and Its Effect on Low-Achieving Sixth Graders
Authors: Fennell Francis , Trueblood Cecil R.
Published: August 2020

A pilot program was organized to identify the teaching functions required by a goal-referenced instructional module to implement four types of individualized instruction. Each type of instruction was operationally described by specifying tasks teachers need to perform to use each type of individualized instruction. Formative data from a feasibility study is presented to describe the impact of two teacher training experiences (TES1 and TES2) on the achievement and attitude scores of low-achieving sixth-grade pupils who were taught a unit on functions by the teacher trainees. TES1 produced significant gains in the achievement and attitude of their pupils. TES2 produced significant gains in achievement but not attitude. TES1 made better use of instructional time through individual pacing of instruction.
Students' Interests in Particular Mathematics Topics
Authors: Hogan Thomas P.
Published: August 2020

Students' interests were assessed in a wide variety of specific topics in mathematics rather than on a global conception of mathematics. Data were obtained on nationally representative groups of students in Grades 1-8. A total of 72 mathematics topics was covered, with various subgroups of students responding to subgroups of the topics. There was wide variation in students' liking for specific items and noteworthy variation in changes across grades, with some items showing an increase in popularity and others showing a very large decrease.
Brief Reports: An Annotated Bibliography of Research on Self-Paced Mathematics Instruction (1965-1976)
Authors: Schoen Harold L. , Drapac Gloria L.
Published: August 2020

During the past decade, an increased emphasis has been placed on individualizing the instruction of America's school children. Many educational agencies have published materials to be used in self-paced or individualized instructional programs. They include Individually Prescribed Instruction (IPI), Program for Learning in Accordance with Needs (PLAN), and Individually Guided Education (IGE) among others. Teachers in local schools throughout the country have a lso been involved in writing packets for selfpaced instruction. The aim of all these materials is to allow the student to proceed through the content presented at the pace best for him.
Reviews: Mathematical Talent: Discovery, Description and Development by Julian C. Stanley, Daniel P. Keating, Lynn H. Fox
Authors: Travers Kenneth J.
Published: August 2020

Julian C. Stanley, Daniel P. Keating, and Lynn H. Fox (Eds.). Mathematical Talent: Discovery, Description and Development. Baltimore, Maryland: The Johns Hopkins University Press, 1974. xvii + 215 pp. $ 10.00 and $2.95 (paperback).
Reviews: Elementary School Mathematics: A Guide to Current Research by Leroy G. Callahan, Vincent J. Glennon
Authors: Aiken Lewis R.
Published: August 2020

Leroy G. Callahan and Vincent J. Glennon. Elementary School Mathematics: A Guide to Current Research. Washington, D.C.: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, 1975. xi + 188 pp.
Elemental Groupings Help Children Perceive Cardinality: A Two-Phase Research Study
Authors: Maertens Norbert W. , Jones Rowen C. , Waite Ardis
Published: August 2020

This two-phase study reports on children's ability to perceive grouped versus ungrouped objects representing the numbers 1 through 9 and on the differential effects of training children to perceive elementally versus nonelementally grouped objects. In the study, children were individually exposed to arrays through the use of 33-mm slides. Results were reported orally and recorded by an observer. Orthogonal contrasts revealed that children were able to perceive elementally grouped objects significantly easier (p<.005p<.005) than nonelementally grouped objects. Further sets of elementally grouped objects in a pattern are significantly easier (p<.05p<.05) to perceive than nonpatterned groupings. Subjects receiving training using elementally grouped objects were able to perceive grouped objects significantly better (p<.01p<.01) than those exposed to ungrouped objects.
Aspects of Teacher Discourse and Student Achievement in Mathematics
Authors: Smith Lyle R.
Published: August 2020

Each of 20 high school algebra teachers taught a lesson on direct variation to one first-year algebra class. The students (N=455) had not previously been taught this topic in class. Before the lessons were taught, each teacher was given a list of lesson objectives. Immediately after each lesson, a posttest that focused on the lesson objectives was administered. The teachers were not shown the posttest before they taught their lessons. Correlations were found between the mean posttest scores for the classes and several variables pertaining to teacher discourse.
Mathematics Presentation as a Function of Cognitive/Personality Variables
Authors: Gordon Marshall
Published: August 2020

This study examined certain aspects of cognitive/personality traits that affected prospective teachers' choice of rule-example order in teaching mathematics. Seventy undergraduate elementary education majors were given the Paragraph Completion Test measuring conceptual level and the Group Embedded Figures Test measuring field dependence-independence, along with a self-report instrument designed to measure choice of rule-example order. Results suggest that prospective teachers' choice of mathematics rule-example order is affected by their conceptual level and field dependence-independence.
Brief Reports: A Search for Reading Difficulties among Erred Word Problems
Authors: Knifong J. Dan , Holtan Boyd D.
Published: August 2020

The most persistent assumption about children's difficulties with word problems is that reading plays a decisive role. This assumption is so embedded in professional thinking that it remains in spite of rather severe challenges and weak support (see Knifong & Holtan, 1976, for a review). It is acknowledged that if a child cannot read a problem, then he certainly cannot work it. It is further acknowledged that (a) it is possible to construct a word problem that can be solved by simple arithmetic operations but can be written in such a style that grade school children cannot decipher its meaning; and (b) a typical classroom will contain a few students, usually one or two, who are dramatically behind grade level in reading ability and probably other subjeets as well. The issue is not whether reading underlies success in word problems—that is assumed. Rather, the issue is whether poor reading skills typically contribute to failure, or whether failure is due to some other factor(s).
Investigative Teaching of Mathematics and Its Effect on the Classroom Learning Environment
Authors: Talmage Harriet , Hart Alice
Published: August 2020

The study examines an approach to teaching elementary school mathematics that combines activities of the creative teacher using manipulative materials within the ongoing school mathematics curriculum. It was hypothesized that changes in the classroom learning environment would result if teachers were involved in defining an instructional approach, identifying its characteristics, and studying the implementation procedures and effects on their own classes. The units for analysis were 46 public and parochial classes in a metropolitan urban area. Cohesiveness in the learning environment proved the single most important dependent variable.
Brief Reports: A Comparison of Two Methods of Column Addition for Pupils at Three Grade Levels
Authors: Wheatley Grayson H. , McHugh Daniel O.
Published: August 2020

With the current concern for the computational proficiency of students in our schools, it is important to examine the merits of specific algorithmic methods. Wheatley (1976) identified two column-addition algorithms that are widely used: a Direct (D) method (adding directly down the column) and a Tens (T) method (looking for combinations that add to ten). Arguments have been advanced for the superiority of each method. The Direct method is often recommended for its supposedly greater accuracy (Marks, Purdy, Kinney & Hiatt, 1975; Chesin & Quast, 1970), whereas the Tens method is considerered faster (Collier & Lerch, 1969; Locke, 1972). Wheatley (1976) tested these assertions in a study with 92 fourth-grade pupils and found the Direct method to be 17% faster than the Tens method and just as accurate.
A Comparison of Three Methods of Introducing Two-Digit Numeration
Authors: Barr David C.
Published: August 2020

Three methods of introducing two-digit numeration were compared, the important difference between the methods being the way in which this introduction was related to known counting behavior. Eleven kindergarten classes were selected, and on the basis of pretests, 193 children were divided into three homogeneous treatment groups. Each treatment received ten experimental lessons on alternate days and after posttesting, one maintenance lesson every week for 3 weeks. Finally, the children were tested for retention. The group that was taught to count by tens did better than those who counted in the ordinary way. The poorest results came from the group that did not count past ten–those who grouped objects into tens and ones and only later in the process used the normal number names.
Brief Reports: The Interpretation of the Connective or in Disjunctive Arguments
Authors: Juraschek W. A.
Published: August 2020

This article describes a follow-up of a study of logical reasoning ability reported by Eisenberg and McGinty (1974).They analyzed responses of elementary school children and prospective elementary school teachers to a 30-item sentential logic test that involved arguments
Brief Reports: The Effect of Maturation or Education on Sentential Logic
Authors: Easterday Kenneth E. , Henry Loren L.
Published: August 2020

It is generally agreed that logical reasoning is one of the goals of mathematics education programs. For example, the Report of the Commission on Mathematics (1959) stated that the school mathematics program should emphasize. “understanding of the nature and role of deductive reasoning … [and] appreciation of mathematical structure” (p. 33). The two studies reported here were designed to examine what effects maturation and education (mathematical education) have on students' ability to apply notions of sentential logic. Such notions of sentential logic would seem to be necessary, but not sufficient, knowledge for teachers of mathematics at all levels if they are to achieve the goals espoused by CEEB's Commission on Mathematics.
Pretraining Chicano Students before Administration of a Mathematics Predictor Test
Authors: Ginther Joan R.
Published: August 2020

Pretraining improved the reliability of the Arithmetic Reasoning Test for Chicano students, but it did not change the reliability for non-Chicano students. There is a strong indication that pretraining Chicano students on the Arithmetic Reasoning Test not only improves the reliability but also improves the predictive power of the test. Pretraining did not improve the reliability of the Missing Words Test for any group, but it appears to have improved the predictive power of this test for both Chicano and non-Chicano students.
A Comparison of Two Approaches to the Assessment of Conditional Reasoning Abilities
Authors: Jansson Lars C.
Published: August 2020

Two approaches to the assessment of conditional reasoning ability were compared. In grades 8, 10, and 12, 464 subjects were tested with (1) Four Card problem tasks and (2) a pencil-and-paper instrument. By means of operationally defined mastery criteria for each of the four basic principles of conditional reasoning it was shown that logical ability improves with age but that the two assessment procedures lack concurrent validity. Furthermore, the two valid principles are handled better in the pencil-and-paper situation, whereas the invalid principles are handled better in the more concrete Four Card setting.
Guest Editorial: How Can Research in Mathematics Education Become More Effective?
Authors: Egsgard John
Published: August 2020

Most of the research in mathematics education is thesis oriented, for few academic institutions of higher learning give the mathematics educator the time to do research. We read the following in the document from the 1976 meeting of the Int ernational Congress for Mathematics Education in Karlsruhe on “The Education and Professional Life of the Mathematics Teacher”: “The excessive teaching load in most teacher-education institutes scarcely allows for personal research on specific professional questions.” It is a sad fact that many colleges expect their teachers to do much in-service work outside the college but refuse to give them any credit in teaching hours or in promotion for their efforts.
Research on Mathematics Education Reported in 1977
Authors: Suydam Marilyn N. , Weaver J. F.
Published: August 2020

Readers of this eighth annual listing of research on mathematics education published in JRME will note several changes. As has been usual, the research is organized alphabetically by author(s) within three categories (research summaries, journal-published reports, and dissertation abstracts). References are not separated by level, but grade or age is indicated for each reference. In addition, an index of general topics is appended to help readers locate studies of particular interest.
Mathematical Problem-Solving Performance and Intellectual Abilities of Fourth-Grade Children
Authors: Meyer Ruth Ann
Published: August 2020

This study investigated mathematical problem-solving performance and intellectual abilities. Twenty tests, including a mathematical problem-solving test and reference tests for verbal, induction, numerical, perceptual speed, memory, world fluency, and spatial abilities, were administered to 179 fourth-grade children. Factor-analytic procedures isolated six factors: verbal, two induction, numerical, perceptual speed, and general mathematics. In addition, the study suggested that prerequisite mathematics skills and concepts are related to, and account for, some of the variance of problem solving; however, knowing these skills and concepts does not guarantee successful problem-solving performance.
Development of the Fraction Concept in Two Physical Contexts: An Exploratory Investigation
Authors: Hiebert James , Tonnessen Lowell H.
Published: August 2020

Efforts to define the fraction concept have frequently led to the identification of several different interpretations, such as part-whole, ratio, quotient, and multiplicative operator (Kieren, 1976). The part-whole interpretation is particu larly important, since it is often used by elementary school mathematics programs to introduce the fraction concept.
A Forum for Researchers: How Pure Should We Be?
Authors: Rising Gerald R.
Published: August 2020

As a sometime critic of much that passes for research in mathematics education today and in particular much that appears in the pages of the Journal for Research in Mathematics Education, I have been asked by a number of colleagues to present my case in one or another forum. (I suspect that some who have pressed these invitations have done so in the sure expectation that I will then be once and for all shot down, an expectation 1 honor.) Although my colleague Stephen Brown and I have collected several folders of materials to provide such critiques, we have not yet been able to respond; other personal and professional responsibilities have intervened.
Locally Played
Authors: Stokes Benjamin
Published: August 2020

How games can make a real-world difference in communities when city leaders tap into the power of play for local impact.

In 2016, city officials were surprised when Pokémon GO brought millions of players out into the public space, blending digital participation with the physical. Yet for local control and empowerment, a new framework is needed to guide the power of mixed reality and pervasive play. In Locally Played, Benjamin Stokes describes the rise of games that can connect strangers across zip codes, support the “buy local” economy, and build cohesion in the fight for equity. With a mix of high- and low-tech games, Stokes shows, cities can tap into the power of play for the good of the group, including healthier neighborhoods and stronger communities. 

Stokes shows how impact is greatest when games “fit” to the local community—not just in terms of culture, but at the level of group identity and network structure. By pairing design principles with a range of empirical methods, Stokes investigates the impact of several games, including Macon Money, where an alternative currency encouraged people to cross lines of socioeconomic segregation in Macon, Georgia; Reality Ends Here, where teams in Los Angeles competed to tell multimedia stories around local mythology; and Pokémon GO, appropriated by several cities to serve local needs through local libraries and open street festivals. 

Locally Played provides game designers with a model to strengthen existing networks tied to place and gives city leaders tools to look past technology trends in order to make a difference in the real world.
Amphetamine reduces reward encoding and stabilizes neural dynamics in rat anterior cingulate cortex
Authors: Hashemnia Saeedeh , Euston David R , Gruber Aaron J
Published: August 2020

Psychostimulants such as d-amphetamine (AMPH) often have behavioral effects that appear paradoxical within the framework of optimal choice theory. AMPH typically increases task engagement and the effort animals exert for reward, despite decreasing reward valuation. We investigated neural correlates of this phenomenon in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), a brain structure implicated in signaling cost-benefit utility. AMPH decreased signaling of reward, but not effort, in the ACC of freely-moving rats. Ensembles of simultaneously recorded neurons generated task-specific trajectories of neural activity encoding past, present, and future events. Low-dose AMPH contracted these trajectories and reduced their variance, whereas high-dose AMPH expanded both. We propose that under low-dose AMPH, increased network stability balances moderately increased excitability, which promotes accelerated unfolding of a neural ‘script’ for task execution, despite reduced reward valuation. Noise from excessive excitability at high doses overcomes stability enhancement to drive frequent deviation from the script, impairing task execution.
On the importance of statistics in molecular simulations for thermodynamics, kinetics and simulation box size
Authors: Gapsys Vytautas , de Groot Bert L
Published: August 2020

Computational simulations, akin to wetlab experimentation, are subject to statistical fluctuations. Assessing the magnitude of these fluctuations, that is, assigning uncertainties to the computed results, is of critical importance to drawing statistically reliable conclusions. Here, we use a simulation box size as an independent variable, to demonstrate how crucial it is to gather sufficient amounts of data before drawing any conclusions about the potential thermodynamic and kinetic effects. In various systems, ranging from solvation free energies to protein conformational transition rates, we showcase how the proposed simulation box size effect disappears with increased sampling. This indicates that, if at all, the simulation box size only minimally affects both the thermodynamics and kinetics of the type of biomolecular systems presented in this work.
Metabolic but not transcriptional regulation by PKM2 is important for natural killer cell responses
Authors: Walls Jessica F , Subleski Jeff J , Palmieri Erika M , Gonzalez-Cotto Marieli , Gardiner Clair M , McVicar Daniel W , Finlay David K
Published: August 2020

Natural Killer (NK) cells have an important role in immune responses to viruses and tumours. Integrating changes in signal transduction pathways and cellular metabolism is essential for effective NK cells responses. The glycolytic enzyme Pyruvate Kinase Muscle 2 (PKM2) has described roles in regulating glycolytic flux and signal transduction, particularly gene transcription. While PKM2 expression is robustly induced in activated NK cells, mice lacking PKM2 in NK cells showed no defect in NK cell metabolism, transcription or antiviral responses to MCMV infection. NK cell metabolism was maintained due to compensatory PKM1 expression in PKM2-null NK cells. To further investigate the role of PKM2, we used TEPP-46, which increases PKM2 catalytic activity while inhibiting any PKM2 signalling functions. NK cells activated with TEPP-46 had reduced effector function due to TEPP-46-induced increases in oxidative stress. Overall, PKM2-regulated glycolytic metabolism and redox status, not transcriptional control, facilitate optimal NK cells responses.
Regulation of dynamic pigment cell states at single-cell resolution
Authors: Perillo Margherita , Oulhen Nathalie , Foster Stephany , Spurrell Maxwell , Calestani Cristina , Wessel Gary
Published: August 2020

Cells bearing pigment have diverse roles and are often under strict evolutionary selection. Here, we explore the regulation of pigmented cells in the purple sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus, an emerging model for diverse pigment function. We took advantage of single cell RNA-seq (scRNAseq) technology and discovered that pigment cells in the embryo segregated into two distinct populations, a mitotic cluster and a post-mitotic cluster. Gcm is essential for expression of several genes important for pigment function, but is only transiently expressed in these cells. We discovered unique genes expressed by pigment cells and test their expression with double fluorescence in situ hybridization. These genes include new members of the fmo family that are expressed selectively in pigment cells of the embryonic and in the coelomic cells of the adult - both cell-types having immune functions. Overall, this study identifies nodes of molecular intersection ripe for change by selective evolutionary pressures.
Decoding the infrastructure of the cerebellum
Authors: van Hoogstraten Willem S , De Zeeuw Chris I
Published: August 2020

High-end technical approaches help to untangle the substructure and projection patterns of the cerebellum.
Using organic fertilizers to increase crop yield, economic growth, and soil quality in a temperate farmland
Authors: Cen Yu , Guo Liyue , Liu Meizhen , Gu Xian , Li Caihong , Jiang Gaoming
Published: August 2020

We used a constant total N application base rate to conduct a two-year field experiment comparing the effects of three organic fertilizers (rapeseed meal (RSM), soybean meal (SBM), and cattle manure (CM)) on the crop yield, economic growth, and soil quality of a winter wheat-summer maize rotation system. Winter wheat and summer maize in rapeseed meal treatment (RSMT), soybean meal treatment (SBMT), and cattle manure treatment (CMT) showed yield increases of 161%, 299%, and 256%, respectively, when compared to no organic fertilizer treatment (CK) (P < 0.05). The annual net incomes of SBMT and CMT were 1.46 and 1.42 times higher, respectively, than RSMT. Compared to the results of the CK group, RSM, SBM, and CM stimulated the soil physically, chemically, and biologically. We found the highest soil macroaggregate proportions, soil organic matter (SOM) levels, total N (TN) levels, and phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) levels in SBMT. The highest soil pH, microbial biomass carbon (MBC) levels, and microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN) levels were observed in CMT. We used a soil quality index (SQI) to evaluate soil quality. After the two-year fertilization treatments, we calculated the SQI using a minimum data set (MDS). We used SOM levels and actinomycete quantity for the MDS properties. The SQI values were significantly different across the four treatments, with the highest values occurring in SBMT, then CMT and RSMT. In conclusion, SBM and CM were more effective than RSM at maintaining crop yield, economic growth, and soil quality.
The changes of morphological and physiological characteristics in hemiparasiticMonochasma savatieribefore and after attachment to the host plant
Authors: Chen Lanlan , Zhu Zaibiao , Guo Qiaosheng , Guo Jun , Huang Zhigang , Zhang Hui
Published: August 2020

Background

Monochasma savatieriis an endangered hemiparasitic medicinal plant with a variety of antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite the urgent need to understand the parasitic biology ofM. savatieri, parasite-host associations have long been neglected in studies ofM. savatieri.

Methods

We conducted a pot cultivation experiment to analyze changes in the growth traits, physiological performance and anatomical structures ofM. savatierigrown with the potential hostGardenia jasminoidesE., before and after the establishment of the parasite-host association.

Results

Prior to the establishment of the parasite-host association, the presence of the host had no significant effect on the maximum root length, leaf indexes or total dry weight ofM. savatieriseedlings, but had significant positive effect on seedling height, number of roots or number of haustoria. When it was continuously grown without a host,M. savatierigrowth was rather slow. The establishment of the parasite-host association enhanced the growth ofM. savatieri, and higher levels of photosynthetic pigments, increased antioxidant enzyme activity and lower malondialdehyde accumulation were observed inM. savatieriwith an established parasite-host association. Furthermore, an analysis of the anatomical structures ofM. savatierishowed that the establishment of the parasite-host association enabled better development of the seedling vegetative organs than that in seedlings without parasite-host associations.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates the physiological and anatomical changes that occurred inM. savatieriafter connection with a host and suggests that the enhanced growth and development ofM. savatieriwere highly dependent on the parasite-host association.
Peer review during the time of COVID-19:
Authors: Green Bart N.
Published: August 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced changes to all areas of education. Educators have been required to rise to the occasion and manage the crisis in an inordinately short period of time. Despite this, peer reviewers of the journal have graciously continued to review papers. This editorial acknowledges the editorial board and peer reviewers and their service to the journal during a tumultuous time.
Factors Affecting Timber Production in Akwa Ibom State (Nigeria) and the Way Forward
Authors: Esiere N. E. , Ndulue N. B. , Akpan M. P.
Published: August 2020

In Akwa Ibom State, timber is used for building, construction, furniture making, transmission pole, pulp and paper, and chemicals. Timber harvesting, processing and utilization had remained a big business to quite a number of people with its attendant forest destruction and deforestation. The State was richly endowed with forest resources, which are of great benefit to man but the high demand and continuous harvesting of timber products in the State ecosystems without any deliberate sustainable management programmes has resulted in the over-harvesting and complete devastation of the standing stock of indigenous wood species. In addition, indiscriminate exploitation of these resources has caused depletion of forest leading to serious timber deficit. This work has discussed factors affecting timber production in Akwa Ibom State and the way forward. The paper has identified deforestation and ‘dereservation’, overexploitation of forest resources, revenues target by government, population growth and infrastructure expansion, non-participation of the private sector in forest development, amongst others, as factors responsible for the decline of timber resources in the state. The paper recommends that reforestation and afforestation programmes, conservation of natural forests, private sector participation in forest management, adoption of agroforestry system and sustainable management of natural resources can improve timber production in the State.
Radiative Effects on Unsteady MHD Couette Flow through a Parallel Plate with Constant Pressure Gradient
Authors: Anyanwu E. O. , Olayiwola R. O. , Shehu M. D. , Lawal A.
Published: August 2020

In this paper, the unsteady MHD Couette flow through a porous medium of a viscous incompressible fluid bounded by two parallel porous plates under the influence of thermal radiation and chemical reaction is investigated. A uniform suction and injection are applied perpendicular to the plates while the fluid motion is subjected to the constant pressure gradient. The transformed conservation equations are solved analytically subject to physically appropriate boundary conditions by using the Eigenfunction expansion technique. The influence of some emerging non-dimensional parameters namely, pressure gradient, suction parameter, radiation parameter, and Hartman number are examined in detail. It is observed that the primary velocity is increased with increasing pressure gradient while the increase in radiation parameter leads to adecrease in the thermal profile of the flow.
Design and Manufacture of a Groundnut Sheller
Authors: Fannou Jean-Louis Comlan , Semassou Guy Clarence , Chegnimonhan Kouamy Victorin , Sonoudouto Gbodja , Degan Gérard , Sanya Emile Adjibadé , Fanou André , Houndekpondji Germain
Published: August 2020

Groundnut shelling is one of the important operations in the peanut harvesting process. Indeed, one of the major constraints in the groundnut production process in developing countries is the tedious task of shelling. It is with the aim of removing this constraint that a prototype groundnut sheller was produced including the dimensioning and design of all the constituent parts. The main components of the stripper are: The frame, the threshing machine, the concave, the fan and the motor. The nominal production capacity of the machine is 378 tons per year and per season with an electric power of 1.6 HP. The cost of the machine is US$ 475, affordable for small local producers. Finally, an economic profitability study of the machine was carried out and presented. It reveals a minimum production of 2.2 tons per year and per season to pay back the initial investment cost of the acquisition.
Intrathoracic Anastomosis or Cervical Anastomosis for Esophagogastric Junction Cancer Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Hosoda Kei , Yamashita Keishi , Moriya Hiromitsu , Mieno Hiroaki , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: August 2020

Aims:

This study aimed to determine the degree of reflux esophagitis after either intrathoracic or cervical esophagogastrostomy in patients with esophagogastric junction carcinoma.

Patients and Methods:

The study population consisted of 10 and 15 consecutive patients who underwent esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction via intrathoracic (Ivor Lewis) or cervical (McKeown) esophagogastrostomy, respectively. Reflux esophagitis was evaluated annually after surgery and scored on a 0- to 4-point scale corresponding to grades N/M, A, B, C, and D, respectively. The reflux esophagitis score of each patient, defined as the average of scores at 1, 2, and 3 years after surgery, was compared between the groups.

Results:

Of the 30 planned annual endoscopic follow-ups (3 years in 10 patients) in the Ivor Lewis group and 45 planned follow-ups (3 years in 15 patients) in the McKeown group, 24 and 29 such follow-ups were performed in the Ivor Lewis and McKeown groups, respectively. The reflux esophagitis score was significantly better in the McKeown group than in the Ivor Lewis group (0.51 ± 0.24 versus 1.46 ± 0.29, P = 0.019). Overall survival did not significantly differ between the Ivor Lewis and McKeown groups (respective 5-year survival rates, 64% versus 57%, P = 0.75).

Conclusions:

The degree of reflux esophagitis may be greater in patients with esophagogastric junction cancer treated by Ivor Lewis esophagectomy than in those treated by McKeown esophagectomy. McKeown esophagectomy might be a more suitable method for the treatment of esophagogastric junction cancer with extended esophageal invasion.
The Safety and Efficacy of Total Laparoscopic Distal Gastrectomy With Delta-Shaped Anastomosis Compared With Laparoscopic-Assisted Distal Gastrectomy
Authors: Gao You-Bing , Wei-Dong Jin , Jun Cao , Zhi-Yong Zhang , Xun Cai , Tao Fu
Published: August 2020

Aim:

To evaluate the safety and short-time benefits of enhanced recovery after surgery on hospital stay, recovery of gastrointestinal function and complications after total laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (TLDG) with delta-shaped anastomosis, comparing with laparoscopic-assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG).

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was performed in 134 patients with gastric cancer who were treated at Wuhan General Hospital of Guangzhou Military Area Command from November 2013 to August 2015. A total of 70 patients underwent TLDG, and 64 patients underwent LADG. All patients were performed elective standard D2 total gastrectomy by 1 group of experienced surgeons. The short-term therapeutic benefits, including duration of flatus and defecation, postoperative pain, duration of postoperative stay, and complications between the 2 groups were analyzed.

Results:

Compared with LADG, TLDG had shorter time to the first flatus (74.09 ± 11.08 hours versus 84.11 ± 12.18 hours, P < 0.001), earlier postoperative liquid diet intake (98.83 ± 10.63 hours versus 108.58 ± 13.08 hours, P < 0.001), less dosage of pain killers (2.01 ± 0.85 versus 2.41 ± 0.85, P = 0.009), faster recovery with a shorter postoperative hospital stay (8.14 ± 0.3.43 days versus 9.97 ± 4.53 days, P = 0.009), There were no significant difference in operation time, blood loss, the number of lymph nodes retrieved, or the incidence of postoperative complications (anastomotic bleeding or leakage, wound infection, digestive tract dysfunction, thrombosis, or death; P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

TLDG with delta-shaped anastomosis is a safe and effective fast-tract surgical approach for earlier gastric cancer, which would probably achieve the short-term curative effect. Further studies based on larger volumes and long-term effects are required to confirm these findings.
Telestroke strategies to enhance acute stroke management in rural settings: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lazarus Gilbert , Permana Affan Priyambodo , Nugroho Setyo Widi , Audrey Jessica , Wijaya Davin Nathan , Widyahening Indah Suci
Published: August 2020

Background

The potential of telestroke implementation in resource‐limited areas has yet to be systematically evaluated. This study aims to investigate the implementation of telestroke on acute stroke care in rural areas.

Methods

Eligible studies published up to November 2019 were included in this study. Randomized trials were further evaluated for risk of bias with Cochrane RoB 2, while nonrandomized studies with ROBINS‐I tool. Random effects model was utilized to estimate effect sizes, and the certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) tool.

Results

The search yielded 19 studies involving a total of 28,496 subjects, comprising of prehospital and in‐hospital telestroke interventions in the form of mobile stroke units and hub‐and‐spoke hospitals network, respectively. Telestroke successfully increased the proportion of patients treated ≤3 hr (OR 2.15; 95% CI 1.37–3.40; I2 = 0%) and better three‐month functional outcome (OR 1.29; 95% CI 1.01–1.63; I2 = 44%) without increasing symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage rate (OR 1.27; 0.65–2.49; I2 = 0%). Furthermore, telestroke was also associated with shorter onset‐to‐treatment time (mean difference −27.97 min; 95% CI −35.51, −20.42; I2 = 63%) and lower in‐hospital mortality rate (OR 0.67; 95% CI 0.52–0.87; I2 = 0%). GRADE assessments yielded low‐to‐moderate certainty of body evidences.

Conclusion

Telestroke implementation in rural areas was associated with better clinical outcomes as compared to usual care. Its integration in both prehospital and in‐hospital settings could help optimize emergency stroke approach. Further studies with higher‐level evidence are needed to confirm these findings.
Experimental investigation and numerical analysis of energy efficiency building using phase changing material coupled with reflective coating
Authors: Shanmuganathan Rajasree , Sekar Manigandan , Praveenkumar T. R. , Pugazhendhi Arivalagan , Brindhadevi Kathirvel
Published: August 2020

With growing population in India, utilization of natural energy plays a significant role in reducing the space and resource constraints. Also, due to climate change and urbanization, future generation in the cities is mainly affected by overheating. One way to reduce the use of artificial energy is to decrease the thermal conductivity of the buildings by introducing phase changing materials (PCM). PCM reduces the energy requirements and peak temperature of the buildings. The main focus of this study is to reduce artificial energy in buildings by employing cool roof strategies. Initially, the conventional room was tested and it is compared with PCM and room with PCM‐reflecting coating. The parameters which influence the thermal stress in buildings such as, transition temperature, latent heat, thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, PCM thickness, and absorption coefficient are measured and compared. PCM with insulated coating shows lower thermal conductivity than conventional buildings and PCM incorporated buildings. On the other hand, after 90 days of weathering PCM with reflective coating roof showed 15% less thermal conductivity than conventional roof. The results showed that, there is a temperature difference on cool roof and delay time for the peak temperature between models is beyond 2 hours compared to conventional roof. The effect of PCM layer thickness with insulated coatings on the thermal performance of roof is relatively good compared with conventional roof. Maximum temperature and heat flux values were recorded at 3.30 pm for all the absorption coefficient values except 0.7.
TEAMWORK MYTHS: WHAT LEADERS NEED TO KNOW
Authors: Tannenbaum Scott , Salas Eduardo
Published: August 2020

Working as a team can have great benefits, but it isn't easy. The way you lead your team has both short‐ and long‐term implications. In the short term, it can impact whether your team succeeds. In the long term, it sends signals to your employees about whether your organization values collaboration. There are many opinions about what makes teams work. Some are well‐grounded, most are pure conjecture. If you've been on a few teams, you almost certainly have developed your own implicit “theory” of teamwork or at least a set of beliefs about teaming. We highlight five myths that the research debunks and offer a few tangible tips associated with each. Myth 1: Focusing on teamwork is a distraction from getting real work done. Myth 2: If team members like each other and maintain harmony, the team will be successful. Myth 3: Being a team player means suppressing individual excellence. Myth 4: Teamwork can overcome a significant lack of talent. Myth 5: Teams are always the answer. The history of team dynamics is long and rich. When formed for the right reasons and led in a constructive manner, a team can tackle important challenges, producing positive results and work experiences.
The profile of urinary biomarkers in overactive bladder
Authors: Rada Maria Patricia , Ciortea Răzvan , Măluţan Andrei Mihai , Doumouchtsis Stergios K. , Bucuri Carmen Elena , Clim Adelina , Roman Andrei , Mihu Dan
Published: August 2020

Aims

In overactive bladder (OAB) research, different biomarkers have been proposed as diagnostic tools and may be used to create individual patient profiles. Assessing the diagnostic performance of biomarkers would better outline their utility. Therefore, our aim was to investigate the diagnostic value of four urinary biomarkers: human brain derived neurotrophic factor (hBDNF), malondialdehyde (MDA), h nerve growth factor (hNGF) and h 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine in women with OAB. These are neurotrophins/oxidative stress markers that have been linked to lower urinary tract symptoms.

Methods

A total of 105 women were included in the study and distributed in two groups: a group with OAB (n = 53) and a control group (n = 50). The levels of the biomarkers were determined using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay technique and they were compared between the groups. If the Mann‐Whitney test demonstrated a statistically significant difference, receiver operating curves (ROC) analysis was undertaken.

Results

When normalized to urinary creatinine, hBDNF, MDA, and hNGF showed significantly increased values in women with OAB as compared to controls, whereas 8‐OHdG showed no significant difference. The diagnostic performance of these biomarkers was analyzed based on the area under the ROC curve (AUC). MDA had the highest AUC (0.75), followed by hNGF (0.69) and hBDNF (0.67).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that MDA, a relatively novel biomarker in OAB research, has a fair performance as a diagnostic tool for OAB. Moreover, urinary neurotrophins (NGF and BDNF) as biomarkers may have a role in the diagnostic pathways of women with OAB symptoms.
Peer learning in clinical placements in psychiatry for undergraduate nursing students: preceptors and students’ perspective
Authors: Vuckovic Verica , Landgren Kajsa
Published: August 2020

Aim

To describe the experiences of peer learning in psychiatric inpatient settings during clinical placement of undergraduate nursing students and to highlight the possibility for peer learning in psychiatric outpatient settings.

Design

A qualitative inductive design.

Method

Questionnaires with 14 students and 12 preceptors in inpatient and outpatient care and interviews with one student and one preceptor in outpatient care were analysed with content analysis.

Results

Students and preceptors perceived learning benefits with peer learning. They described how learning increased through exchange of knowledge and how collaboration created security and independence, structured learning activities were appreciated as a learning tool. Incompatibility of students was an issue that could be overcome. Peer learning was perceived to contribute to a secure learning atmosphere, increased self‐confidence and to provide a deeper understanding of psychiatric nursing. Peer learning was described as promoting discussion and reflection on practice and preparing nursing students for their future profession.