bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship Between Self-Harm and Suicide in Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Brañas Marcelo J. A. A. , Croci Marcos S. , Murray Grace E. , Choi-Kain Lois W.
Published: August 2022

Nonsuicidal self-injury is a common development among adolescents that varies in severity, frequency, and associated psychiatric vulnerability. A key challenge is to understand how clinicians can identify those at greater risk, specifically for transition to suicide attempts. Shared functions (eg, to escape negative emotions) and risk factors in selected domains (eg, exposure to self-harm in others, impulsivity, cannabis and other drug use, diminished social connections, and history of bullying) between self-injury and suicide can explain this association and guide interventions. General guidelines for nonsuicidal self-injury and comorbid suicidal behavior in youth include mapping its predisposing factors and psychological functions, assessing severity and acute risk, and elucidating context (eg, interpersonal stressors). No medication has proven effective in reducing self-harm. Outpatient psychological treatment is the first option to address relevant emotional, behavioral, and interpersonal vulnerabilities, and evidence-based treatments can be effective (eg, dialectical behavior therapy, mentalization-based treatment, and cognitive-behavioral therapy).

[
Psychiatr Ann.
2022;52(8):311–317.]
Learn to Affirm: Suicidality Reduction in Gender and Sexual Minority Youth Through Interpersonal and Systemic Change
Authors: Sher El , Hedrick Molly , Paliotta Michele , Dawson Lori J. , Issa Nicole , Gelman Daniella
Published: August 2022

Gender and sexual minority youth face greater risk than both their heterosexual and cisgender peers and other members of the GSM community, including higher rates of psychological distress and suicidal thoughts and attempts. Enacted stigma is a major risk factor for suicidality in this group. Protective factors include social support through key relationships, increasing access to GSM-affirmative health care experiences, and programmatic support to reduce bullying, harassment, discrimination, and violence. Understanding and reducing microaggressions and providing microaffirmations in health care settings can serve as protective factors. New data from an adolescent partial hospitalization program are presented in this article to support these recommendations. Health care providers are urged to educate themselves thoroughly about the needs of GSM youth, provide trauma-informed care, educate staff, modify health records to be more inclusive, and advocate for systemic change to support GSM people.

[
Psychiatr Ann
. 2022;52(8):328–332.]
Biomechanical Strength of Screw Versus Suture Button Fixation in the Latarjet Procedure: A Cadaver Study
Authors: Hakverdiyev Yasin , McFarland Edward G. , Kaymakoglu Mehmet , Ozdemir Erdi , Akpinar Sercan , Huri Pinar , Costouros John G. , Huri Gazi
Published: August 2022

We compared the strength of screw vs suture button fixation in the Latarjet procedure for shoulder dislocation through biomechanical testing in a cadaver model. Cadavers were assigned randomly to receive screw or suture button fixation (both groups, n=5). The anteroposterior radius of the glenoid was measured, and a bony defect was created on the anteroinferior rim of the glenoid, equal to 25% of the width of the anteroposterior radius of the glenoid surface. The coracoid process was transferred into the newly created bony defect of the glenoid and fixed with two 3.5-mm partially threaded cannulated screws or 2 surgical buttons. All samples underwent tensile testing in the anteroinferior direction. Statistical analysis was performed to compare mean forces at failure between groups (alpha=.05). The mean force at failure was higher in the screw group (295 N; range, 103–534 N) than in the suture button group (133 N; range, 74–270 N) (
P
=.045). We found no difference between groups in ability to withstand a force of 150 N, which is the reported mean daily force threshold borne by the shoulder (
P
=.52). Screw fixation withstood a higher failure load than suture button fixation, indicating that screw fixation is a biomechanically superior option in the Latarjet procedure. The fixation methods did not differ in their ability to withstand the mean force borne by the shoulder during activities of daily living; thus, suture button fixation should be considered as an option in the Latarjet procedure. [
Orthopedics
. 2022;45(6):e321–e325.]
Treating AO Type C2-3 Distal Humerus Fractures With the Anconeus Flap Transolecranon Approach
Authors: Kim Byung-Sung , Jung Ki Jin , Kim Kyung Bum , Park Seong San
Published: August 2022

We evaluated the outcomes of precontoured locking plate fixation with the anconeus flap transolecranon (AFT) approach to treating AO type C2-3 comminuted intra-articular distal humerus (IDH) fractures among active patients. Thirty-six patients (age <65 years) with IDH fractures treated with precontoured distal humerus locking plate fixation were divided into 2 groups: group 1 (n=18; transolecranon [TO] approach) and group 2 (n=18; AFT approach). The radiographic examination included assessments of implant failure, fracture site union, and olecranon osteotomy site union. Clinical examination included assessments of operating time, range of motion (ROM), Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, and complications. The mean follow-up time was 25.2 months (range, 18–79 months). The mean operating time was 134.3 minutes and was significantly longer for group 2 (AFT; 141.2 minutes) than for group 1 (TO; 124.2 minutes). The mean olecranon osteotomy site union time was significantly longer in group 2 (7.4 weeks) than in group 2 (4.0 weeks). Olecranon osteotomy site resorption occurred among 6 of 18 patients only in group 2. No significant difference in ROM (flexion, 130°; extension, −0.7°), MEPS (85.7 points), DASH score (20.0 points), or frequency of major complications (TO, 5; AFT, 6) was observed between the groups. Our results showed no advantage of the AFT approach over the TO approach, despite preserving the anconeus. Prospective randomized trials will be necessary to compare the AFT and TO approaches for treating comminuted IDH fractures. [
Orthopedics
. 2022;45(6):e326–e334.]
Through-Focus Response of Extended Depth of Focus Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Pieh Stefan , Artmayr Cornelia , Pai Viktoria , Schartmüller Daniel , Kriechbaum Katharina
Published: August 2022

PURPOSE:

To investigate extended depth of focus intraocular lenses (EDOF IOLs), intended to extend the depth of field after cataract surgery in a comparative study at the optical bench.

METHODS:

An optical bench with either green or white light was used for this study. The artificial cornea used exhibited a spherical aberration of 0.2 µm. Examinations of the following lenses with a pupil opening of 3 and 4.5 mm were carried out: AcrySof IQ Vivity (Alcon Laboratories, Inc), Isopure (PhysIOL), Tecnis Eyhance (Johnson & Johnson), Vivinex Impress (Hoya Surgical Optics), and xact (Santen).

RESULTS:

Using green light and a pupil aperture of 3 mm, the AcrySof IQ Vivity showed the highest light energy for the intermediate area, whereas the Isopure and Vivinex Impress provided the highest energy for distance vision. Under the same examination conditions with a pupil opening of 4.5 mm, all lenses showed a low light distribution for the intermediate range. Regarding light distribution for distance, the Tecnis Eyhance had the highest light intensity. Using white light, the curves became much wider and more similar to each other.

CONCLUSIONS:

The five EDOF lenses investigated differ mainly by their different weighting of energy between the far and intermediate ranges.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2022;38(8):497–501.]
The impact of network delay on Nakamoto consensus mechanism
Authors: Lin Shaochen , Liu Xuyang , Ma Xiujuan , Mao Hongliang , Zhang Zijian , Khan Salabat , Zhu Liehuang
Published: August 2022

Nakamoto consensus is prevailing in the world largest blockchain-based cryptocurrency systems, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. Since then, various attempts have been studied to attack Nakamoto consensus worldwide. In recent years, network delay has won more attention for making inconsistent ledgers in blockchain-based applications by virtue of attacking Nakamoto consensus. However, so far as we know, most of the existing works mainly focus on constructing inconsistent ledgers for blockchain systems, but not offering fine-grained theoretical analysis for how to optimize the success probability by flexibly dividing computational power and network delay from the viewpoint of adversary. The paper first utilizes network delay and the partition of controlled computation power of honest miners for making forks as long as possible. Then, formally analysis is provided to show the success probability of the proposed attack, and compute the optimal network delay and splitting for adversarial computation power in theory. Finally, simulation experiments validate the correctness of the formal analysis.
EXPLAINING THE RATIO OF FLEXIBILITY AND SPATIAL ORGANIZATION IN HOUSING
Authors: Ziaei Banafsheh Sadat , Ghoddusifar Seyed Hadi , Bazrafkan Kaveh
Published: August 2022

Architectural spaces with the capability of spatial organization and internal transformations can respond to a greater number of their users' needs at different times and thus provide more desirable performance than single-functional spaces. The necessity to access this ability is one of the subcategories of flexibility in housing as a contemplative subject. The purpose of this research is to provide an analytical model in relation to developing the means-end chain model and using its indicators to identify flexible house attributes perceived by users. Users of residential complexes in Tehran city are evaluated as a research society. The research method in the present study will be of mixed type and its performance method will be based on the survey. The results show that the spatial organization in residential complexes in Tehran city is based on the flexibility of the kitchen, living, dining, catering, and bedroom spaces. Accordingly, the most flexible features take place between them, which has led to the increased flexibility of spaces in relation to various activities. However, other spaces are just a place to do a specific activity, which confirms the reduction of their flexibility.
Keywords: Flexible house, users' needs, architectural spaces.
The Triage Implementation Framework
Authors: Sande Beverly , Burnett Camille S.
Published: August 2022

There are several models and frameworks used for continuous improvement in many education preparation programs (EPPs). Each program selects a framework or model that would best meet their improvement needs. In this chapter, the authors propose a novel framework that EPPs can use to prioritize continuous improvement activities. This model serves as a pre-implementation framework that can assist a team in determining how to select a critical area of implementation with the greatest impact. The novel framework is the triage implementation framework (TIF). The authors will describe a case study that used TIF, what it means to triage, and how the TIF can benefit EPPs.
HBCUs Are Economic Engines in Their Local Economies and the Nation, Fantasy or Reality?
Authors: Onyeocha Joseph
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this chapter is to chronicle the economic impact that 107 HBCUs have made in their community, in particular, and in the United States generally. There is a need and a duty to educate the communities and inform the nation the critical roles HBCUs play in the lives of the graduates of these institutions. The chapter will robustly reference the seminal study, “HBCUs Make America Strong: The Positive Economic Impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” commissioned by UNCF's Frederick D. Patterson Research Institute. The report shows that the economic benefits of HBCUs extend to more than just the students themselves. They are equally important to the communities, and the regions, that HBCUs have served for more than 100 years.
Sites of Immanent Social Critique
Authors: Martin, II Frank C.
Published: August 2022

The continued social and cultural value of sustaining America's history of segregation by maintaining what could be considered atavistic, race-assigned, public and private colleges remains an open axiological question in post-modern American society. With the loss of the traditional roles of these institutions as necessities for the education of marginalized African-American populations, the future role and identity of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) has been called into question beginning in the last quarter of the 20th and continuing into the 21st century. However, questions of race identity remain highly motivating socio-cultural catalysts for discourse in the first quarter of the 21st century. The following discussion considers the ways in which Historically Black Institutions produced scholars and cultural critics who have offered significant challenges to the status quo of American exceptionalist discourse and how museums at HBCUs have helped shape the foundational concerns of a 21st century re-imagining of American identity and shared values.
Application and Research of Interactive Design in the Creative Expression Process of Public Space
Authors: Xu Yuelan
Published: August 2022

The 21st century is an era full of opportunities and challenges for the media industry, the new media form has been unprecedentedly expanded, and the innovators who have a forward-looking vision try to break the traditional mode of information dissemination. The one-way information dissemination mode of traditional media cannot fully satisfy the needs of the public in the information age, and the design form of public space should no longer be tied to traditional media attributes. The interactive characteristics of new media is used to guide the audience to participate in the communication and interaction, which can effectively arouse the audience's resonance and meet the audience's demand for information reception and feedback. This paper starts with the background of the definition of new media, the interactive characteristics of new media and the public space art, focuses on interactive design thinking and interactive design method, provides guidance for the creative expression process of new media public space.
Idiosyncratic Volatility and the Cross-Section of Stock Returns of NEEQ Select
Authors: Ye Yuan
Published: August 2022

This paper investigates the empirical relationship between idiosyncratic volatility and the cross-section of stock returns of NEEQ Select. It finds that idiosyncratic volatility is positively related to expected stock returns, with no presence of idiosyncratic volatility anomalies. Idiosyncratic volatility serves as an important asset pricing factor of NEEQ Select, which better represents investors’ psychological expectation of idiosyncratic risk premium. Both expected and unexpected idiosyncratic volatility display a positive and robust relationship to stock returns, but unexpected idiosyncratic risk, which controls for unexpected returns, may exert relatively greater marginal effects. Based on the above conclusions, some suggestions are put forward to actively achieve the diversification management efficiency of NEEQ Select portfolios.
Immobilization of Ascorbic Acid on Ni-Zn Layered Hydroxide Salts and its Application as [AuCl4]- Adsorbent
Authors: Christina Mikha Meilinda , Rusdiarso Bambang , Santosa Sri Juari
Published: August 2022

Immobilization of ascorbic acid on Ni-Zn LHS (Nickel-Zink Layered Hydroxide Salt) was done through sample preparations and immobilization studies. Ni-Zn LHS was synthesized using coprecipitation method by mixing Ni (NO3)2 and Zn (NO3)2 with molar ratio 2:1, respectively. The green solid material was characterized using XRD, FTIR and SEM-EDX. Diffraction pattern of Ni-Zn LHS shows the peaks from (001), (003), (020) and (220) reflections at 9.30, 18.99, 33.36 and 59.50o, respectively. Ni-Zn LHS has zero charge or netral at pH 6.7. There is no significant shift of 2θ shown after immobilization process. It indicated that ascorbic acid was present on the outer material’s surface. The successful of immobilization was confirmed by the presence of ascorbic groups in FTIR spectra. The 2924 and 1465 cm-1 were the bands of C-H sp3 and C-H sp2, respectively. The immobilized material shown the decreasing of wide range particle size. The Ni, Zn, N and O atoms were detected in Ni-Zn LHS, Ni and Zn were the metal and N and O were the nitrate ion. Immobilization were confirmed by the presence of C atom on material’s surface, C was indicated the ascorbic acid. The immobilization process was followed the Langmuir model due to the highest value of correlation coefficient. Langmuir model assumed that there’s one major interaction in adsorption. The Ni-Zn-AA LHS has stability at pH 5-6 due to its lowest amount of ascorbic acid that released from the structure. The adsorption of [AuCl4]- was successfully done at pH 6 following pseudo second order kinetic model and Freundlich adsorption isotherm model with correlation coefficient 0.9791 and 0.9381, respectively.
Nanocatalysts of Sulfated Zirconia and Calcium Oxide/Zirconia for Microwave-Assisted Biodiesel Synthesis from Castor Oil
Authors: Andiena Resty Zama , Wijaya Karna , Syoufian Akhmad
Published: August 2022

Nanocatalysts of sulfated zirconia (SZ) and CaO/zirconia for microwave assisted-biodiesel synthesis from castor oil have been successfully prepared. The aim of the research was to determine the effectiveness and the selectivity of catalysts in biodiesel production. The sulfated zirconia catalyst was prepared by the wet impregnation method while the calcium oxide/zirconia catalyst was prepared through the wet impregnation by microwave-assisted method. The catalysts were used for the esterification and transesterification reaction with the highest acidity and the basicity value of 7.16 mmol NH3 g-1, 87.76 mmol HCl g-1, respectively. The acidity and basicity of the catalysts are directly related to the catalyst active site in the esterification and transesterification process. The results showed that catalyst 0.5 M SZ 500 and 1: 0.2 CaO/ZrO2 800 had excellent stability that can be seen from their high crystallinity and large surface area. The biodiesel products characterized by 1H-NMR, GC-MS and Bomb calorimeter also showed excellent results. After purification, 1H-NMR result shows the conversion of castor oil into methyl ester is close to 100%. This was supported by GC-MS where the highest area of methyl ester is 93.91% of methyl ricinoleate.
Influence of Bending-Twisting Coupling Deformation on Pure Bending Strength and Fracture Morphology of CFRP Angle-Ply Laminate
Authors: Terasaki Kazuki , Okubo Kazuya , Obunai Kiyotaka
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of bending-twisting coupling deformation on the bending strength of CFRP in which laminate configuration has symmetricity and angled fiber orientation. In this study, a novel type of test fixture for pure bending test that permit the coupled bending-twisting deformation is newly developed. Test results showed that the pure bending strength of the angle-ply laminates was decreased when bending-twisting coupled deformation was permitted. The normalized bending strength when the bending-twisting coupled deformation is permitted was decreased with increase of coupled component of angle-ply laminate. Observations of fracture morphology of specimen also showed that the specimen was firstly failure at the 0° layer on the compression side, no matter if the coupled deformation was permitted or constrained. However, when the coupled deformation was permitted, the failure was occurred at lower applied bending stress compared with when coupled deformation was constrained. Moreover, when the coupled deformation was permitted, the failure of 0° layer was occurred at the diagonal portion of specimen. These results suggested that the existing of in-plane shear stress at 0° layer affects the fracture morphology of specimen.
Microstructural Investigation of Acicular Nodular Cast Iron Used for Work Rolls
Authors: Oktadinata Herry , Pratomo Sri Bimo , Dwiwanto Supono Adi , Nugraha Yanuar , Mardono Untung
Published: August 2022

The microstructure and mechanical properties of the work roll grade acicular nodular cast iron supplied by two different manufacturers were studied and compared. These rolls have different chemical compositions, namely work roll A and work roll B, respectively. This work aims to evaluate the two different work rolls with different chemistry and the effect on the microstructure and hardness. The microstructure was observed by the optical microscope and image analyzer, and the hardness value was measured using a Rockwell hardness machine. The results showed that the work roll A presented more carbides and graphite nodules than B. Carbide area fraction and nodularity level of work roll A are found much higher than B; therefore, it provided a higher hardness. It seems a higher percentage of carbon and proper amount of magnesium as a nodulizer contributed to produce more carbides and nodules on the cast iron of work roll A compared to B.
Photocatalytic Performance Test of Sn3O4/TiO2/SiO2 Particles with Adjusted Sn3O4 Deposition under Indoor Environment
Authors: Yamazumi Akihiro , Nguyen Dang Trang , Taguchi Kozo
Published: August 2022

Photocatalyst is a material that can not only generate clean energy for the environment but can also be used in various applications such as antibacterial and antifouling properties. In this study, we compared the photocatalytic performance of titanium dioxide under indoor conditions by adjusting the amount of tin oxide attached to it. The amount of tin oxide deposited can be varied by adjusting the hydrothermal synthesis time. Appropriate tin oxide deposition recorded higher performance than excessive tin oxide deposition in both the yeast antimicrobial test and the water-splitting power generation test.
Encapsulation of Lipase Enzyme in Silica Gel Matrix from Rice Husk Ash and Transesterification Reaction Activity Test on Palm Oil
Authors: Rahayu Lisa Eka Yuni , Pranowo Deni , Raharjo Tri Joko
Published: August 2022

Encapsulation is one of the immobilization methods to increase the stability of the enzyme or other biomolecules by binding or trapping the molecules in a certain matrix. Silica gel was mostly chosen as a matrix to encapsulate the enzyme due to its high thermal stability. In this research, silica gel was used to encapsulate of lipase enzyme. Silica gel was synthesized from sodium silicate by the sol-gel technique. Silica from rice husk ash was extracted using 2 M NaOH to produce a sodium silicate solution. The silica gel was synthesized using the acidification of sodium silicate solution. The various mass and volume ratios of the enzyme and sodium silicate solution were 1:1; 1:2, and 2:1 (w/v). The amount of encapsulated enzyme was analyzed with UV-Vis spectrophotometry at a wavelength of 540 nm after complexing with biuret. The encapsulated enzyme activity test was carried out for the transesterification reaction of palm oil under various conditions. Fatty Acid Methyl Esther (FAME) analysis and surface analysis of the encapsulated enzyme was performed using GC-MS and SEM-EDX, respectively. The results showed that the lipase enzyme could be well encapsulated in silica gel after aging for eight days, at a lipase and sodium silicate ratio of 1:2 (w/v) with a percentage of 93.72%, and there were still 85.76% encapsulated lipase even after being washed seven times. The transesterification reaction resulted in the highest conversion of oil to FAME (33.87%) at a mole ratio of 1:3 oil: methanol and a lipase mass of 0.5 g.
Ammonium Hydroxide-Assisted Growth of Large-Scale Single-Crystalline Molybdenum Disulfide
Authors: Yao Jia Min , Wan Yi , Deng Kai Ming , Kan Er Jun
Published: August 2022

Controllable, massive synthesis of low-dimensional materials is one of the important cornerstones for the development of new functional devices oriented to high-tech industries, and the key to realize the broad application prospects in the quantum realm. How to synthesize high-quality low-dimensional materials for the next-generation high-performance devices has been regarded as a significant research direction in the field of functional material preparation technology. Here, we developed a convenient method via a solution-assisted thin-film precursor to replace the conventional solid-state powder precursor by taking advantage of the soluble nature of molybdenum trioxide in ammonium hydroxide, which can remarkably reduce the supersaturation state of vapor reactants and thus reduce the nucleation density, beneficial for the growth of large-scale single-crystalline molybdenum disulfide monolayers. The effect of the precursor concentration on the growth process has been systematically investigated. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy and temperature-dependent optical characterizations have been performed to examine the crystal quality of the ammonium hydroxide-assisted synthesized samples.
Electrical Study of PVP/LiCo1-xZnxO2 Nanoparticles Embedded Nanofibers
Authors: Nawaz Malik Shahzad , Anis-ur-Rehman Muhammad
Published: August 2022

Energy storage devices are the demand of the new era for flexible portable electronics. Considering the importance of renewable energy and environmental issues. We utilized LiCo1-xZnxO2 (x=0.0, 0.1) nanoparticles with an average crystallite size of 31-45nm that were embedded in nanofibers formed by the electrospinning technique. Sol-gel techniques were used to make them. PVP polymer was used as a binder to support the backbone frame of the nanofibers. We have characterized our synthesized material to examine its structural, morphological, and electrical properties. XRD of synthesized material tells us about the rhombohedral structure of the R3m space group symmetry. FTIR spectroscopy was used to study the functional groups and vibrations in synthesized material. SEM results confirmed the formation of nanoparticles embedded in nanofibers. In AC analysis, we have discussed dielectric constant, tangent loss, and AC conductivity. The electrical properties of synthesized LiCo1-xZnxO2 (x=0.0, 0.1) nanofibers were studied in a frequency range of 100Hz to 3MHz and found that AC conductivity is high of nanoparticles embedded nanofibers of LiCo0.9Zn0.1O2 i.e., 4.2 x10-5 (S/m) that plays a crucial role for the supercapacitors and as a cathode material in Lithium-ion batteries(LIBs).
Impact of Open Innovation on Firm Performance: A Literature Review
Authors: Dilrukshi M. G. M. , Wickramasinghe C. N. , Edirisinghe, S. D.
Published: August 2022

This study investigates how the open innovation paradigm influences firm performance by synthesizing the existing literature on open innovation and firm performance. This study provides a better understanding of the concept of open innovation based on the current literature. The selection criteria were executed by the PRISMA article selection process linking open innovation and firm performance, published in peer-reviewed journals from 2015 to June 2021. The search string was tailored by Ebsco host, Elsevier, Emerald Insight and Sage publishers considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The descriptive method was used to analyze the selected articles. Numerous studies investigated that open innovation positively impacts firm performance, and few researchers demonstrated that open innovation has a U-shaped relationship with firm performance. Some studies discovered negative and mixed results on open innovation and firm performance. Due to the contradictory findings, more investigations on open innovation and firm performance are needed and this review produces knowledge for both practitioners and policymakers to implement their roles effectively. Especially these findings are significant for future researchers to identify the key areas that need to be investigated in the field of open innovation.
Comparing Cumulative Trends (with an application to COVID-19 data)
Authors: Amaratunga D. , Cabrera J. , Ghosh D. , Katehakis M. , Wang J. , Wang W. , Xyntarakis M.
Published: August 2022

Many applications involve looking at and comparing trends in data. We will discuss some statistics that could be used to assess the similarity or dissimilarity between pairs of cumulative trends. These statistics can then be used to study sets of trends – for example, to cluster them or to compare them across different groups we will describe one possible approach and illustrate its use in a case study, in which we studied the trend over time of COVID-19 in New Jersey (NJ) in the USA. It was found that areas close to New York City had significantly different (more rapidly increasing) cumulative trends compared to areas further from New York City during the early days of the pandemic, but this difference dissipated as the pandemic progressed and spread within New Jersey itself. Overall, the method performed well and detected insightful differences. Various socio-economic factors could have influenced the spread of COVID-19 within NJ. It was also found that socio-economic factors which could have influenced the spread of COVID-19 within NJ are population, distance to NYC, and percent of low-income households. The dynamic nature of these relationships also needs to be studied, perhaps using extensions of the methodology discussed here.
Key Issues and Challenges of English Lesson Materials: An Analysis of the G.C.E. Ordinary Level English Textbook
Authors: Amaranayake S.
Published: August 2022

When examining the English Language Teaching (ELT) materials available in Sri Lanka, it could be said that most of them are alien and takes center-stage. As a result, in the process of language acquisition, students’ own experience, contexts and lifestyles are devalued through under emphasis and trivialization; hence the sense of linguistic and cultural insecurity that the average student faces when confronted with English being reinforced. This study looks at the issues and challenges faced by teachers and learners when it comes to the use of Sri Lankan English in the local classroom context. This study employs the qualitative data analysis method and a textual analysis of the Grade 11 English textbook of both old and new syllabi is done to examine the core language issues found in teaching material in a classroom context where English is taught/ learnt as a second language. The objective of this study is to examine the appropriateness or mismatch of the teaching materials to the classroom context. According to the findings, the materials that are discussed in this study consist of several components outside the range of experience and comprehension of the second language learners. These textbooks are not culturally appropriate, as they impose the culture of the western/inner circle countries in which they reflect the colonial views and attitudes. Hence, the study proposes that the English textbook designed for the Ordinary Level students should be designed in a way that would facilitate their second language learning process, and it looks at the extent to which that objective/ requirement is fulfilled through the selected textbooks.
Primary Angiitis of the Central Nervous System – Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Sundaram Soumya , Sylaja PN
Published: August 2022

Primary angiitis of central nervous system (PACNS) is a rare idiopathic disorder affecting blood vessels of brain, spinal cord, and meninges, consequently leading to infarct and less frequently hemorrhage. CNS vasculitis can also occur as part of systemic vasculitis or secondary to autoimmune diseases or infections. The clinical manifestations of PACNS are non-specific and no single laboratory investigation or neuroimaging finding can reliably diagnose this condition. Histopathological evidence of transmural inflammation of blood vessels of CNS is the gold standard, but is generally pursued subsequent to conventional angiogram (CA) because of its invasive nature. The differentials of PACNS are exhaustive and include systemic vasculitis, secondary vasculitis, non-inflammatory intracranial vasculopathies, demyelination, and neoplasm. These alternative conditions can often be distinguished by history, examination, immunological testing, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and neuroimaging. CA can detect vasculitic changes in the large to medium cerebral arteries but the specificity is low. Recent advancements in vessel wall imaging techniques have further enabled the distinction of various intracranial vasculopathies from CNS vasculitis. The disease has considerable morbidity and fatality unless timely treatment with immunosuppressive agents is initiated. Induction therapy with glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide followed by azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, or methotrexate as maintenance therapy is the cornerstone of management. Biological agents such as rituximab and anti-tumour necrosis factor alpha inhibitors (infliximab and etanercept) may be used in refractory cases. This review discusses the approach to the diagnosis, determinants of outcome, and management.
Scuba Diver Presenting with a Giant Sphenoid Sinus Mucocele
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar
Published: August 2022

Isolated sphenoid sinus mucocele is an uncommon clinical entity. Expanding mucocele in the sphenoid sinus may affect vital structures such as the optic nerve, internal carotid artery, and other adjacent structures. Hence, barotrauma causing sphenoid sinus mucocele may result in serious neurological disorders including headache and vision disturbances. The patient urgently requires treatment of endoscopic marsupialization of the sphenoid sinus mucocele. Here, a 35-year-old male diver presented with acute headache and was diagnosed as sphenoid mucocele by computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging. He was treated immediately with oral corticosteroids, nasal decongestants, and antibiotics. Then, he underwent endoscopic transnasal sphenoidotomy and marsupialization of the mucocele. A high index of suspicion is needed to get such a rare clinical entity like sphenoid mucocele when a diver presents with a headache and/or visual problem.
COVID-19-Induced Acute Pancreatitis – A Case Series
Authors: Mukund Bal , Kumar Amit , Bhat Vivek , Tiwari DK , Thergaonkar RW
Published: August 2022

The present pandemic of the COVID-19 virus has caused enormous morbidity and mortality to humankind. Acute pancreatitis (AP) in otherwise healthy patients infected with the COVID-19 virus has been reported only as case reports and series. We report a series of three cases of AP including one adolescent with necrotizing pancreatitis due to COVID-19 infection, out of total 4117 COVID-19 admission (0.07%) in our hospital till February 8, 2022. Detailed investigations for etiological diagnosis of AP were within normal limits thus, the causation was attributed to COVID-19 viral infection as causative agent. One child succumbed to the illness as he also manifested with features of multisystem inflammatory syndrome and had progressive multi-organ dysfunction despite aggressive management. Further studies are required before a clear mechanism of causation due to the COVID-19 virus is proven in AP.
Rare but not forgotten
Authors: Chung Bui Khiong , Tan Zhun Khiong
Published: August 2022

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common acute cardiovascular disorder. The most common electrocardiograph (ECG) finding in PE is sinus tachycardia. However, the S1Q3T3 pattern of acute cor pulmonale also called McGinn-White sign is classic. We report three cases of a 48-year-old man, 41-year-old woman, and a 66-year-old woman diagnosed with PE with the ECG findings of S1Q3T3 pattern. In conclusion, recognizing these ECG findings could prompt clinicians to consider PE and lead to earlier diagnosis.
Drug-induced pigmentation
Authors: Narayanan Arunachalam , Chandrashekhar Laxmisha
Published: August 2022

Around 10% to 20% of all cases of acquired hyperpigmentation are drug-induced. The underlying pathogenesis for drug-induced pigmentation includes melanin accumulation, drug accumulation, toxic effects on melanocytes, and hypersecretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone and melanocyte-stimulating hormone among others. A step-by-step approach might help the dermatologist to diagnose a case of drug-induced pigmentation. Initial history should include a list of drugs taken, duration of intake of each drug, dose of the drug, and latency between drug intake and the onset of pigmentation. Examination findings might reveal specific patterns of pigmentation such as fixed drug eruption, serpentine supravenous pigmentation, flagellate pigmentation, melasma-like pigmentation, or reticulate pigmentation. The color of the pigment also helps in making a diagnosis. Besides, examination of the mucosa, hair, nails, and teeth is also essential. The histopathological examination might reveal whether the color is due to the drug itself, melanin, lipofuscin, or hemosiderin. Special staining, examination under polarized light, and electron microscopy are useful adjuncts in making a diagnosis. Often, drug-induced pigmentation is a diagnosis of exclusion and requires evaluation for other causes of pigmentation. Treatment options for drug-induced pigmentation include lowering the dose or replacing the drug with an effective alternative. Photoprotection and sunscreens also play an important role in treatment. Knowledge of the various patterns of drug-induced pigmentation is essential for all dermatologists to manage this condition.
Role of dermoscopy in the assessment of difficult to diagnose cases of pigmentary dermatoses
Authors: Bhat Yasmeen J. , Shah Faizan Y. , Latif Insha , Saqib Najm-u , Shah Aaqib A. , Bashir Yaqzata , Devi Rita , Dar Uzair K. , Naushad Masarat , Hassan Iffat , Krishan Kewal
Published: August 2022

Background:

Pigmentary disorders are a common skin affliction causing great distress and anguish among those affected. Dermoscopy is a noninvasive diagnostic modality which has great potential in the diagnosis of these disorders.

Objectives:

To assess the dermoscopic features relevant to the diagnosis of pigmentary dermatoses in patients presenting to our tertiary care hospital.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study conducted in patients presenting to pigmentary dermatoses clinic of our hospital over a period of 1 year. A comprehensive evaluation with special emphasis on dermoscopy was performed in all patients. The dermoscope used was DL3N Dermlite (10X). Additional investigations were carried out as deemed necessary to clinch a final diagnosis.

Results:

The study included a total of 200 cases with 90 males and 110 females, with age ranging from 6 months to 69 years and a mean age of 24.43 ± 17.07 years. The pigmentary dermatoses encountered were divided into three groups − disorders of hypopigmentation, facial melanoses, and other pigmentary disorders. Dermoscopic findings most relevant to diagnosis were compiled and tabulated.

Conclusion:

Dermoscopy played a significant role to rule out ominous diagnosis with accuracy comparable to histopathology, when carried out by an expert. The need for an invasive procedure such as skin biopsy was evaded in a number of cases.
A retrospective evaluation of patient profiles, investigations, and treatment modalities used within a pigmentary disorders clinic in Australia
Authors: Doolan Brent J. , Yeon Janice , Weaich Michelle , Gupta Monisha
Published: August 2022

Background:

Pigmentary disorders are a common presentation in dermatology practice and can be challenging to manage and require expert intervention. Currently, there are limited data on Australian patients presenting with pigmentary disorders.

Aims:

The aim of the study was to undertake a review of patients presenting with pigmentary disorders and to compare serology, treatment, and quality of life data to global data.

Methods:

A retrospective, observational study was undertaken in patients attending the pigmentary disorders clinic at The Skin Hospital, Sydney from June 2012 to March 2020. Data collection included demographics, disease duration, baseline nutritional and autoimmune serology, quality of life scores, and treatments undertaken.

Results:

776 patients were identified, with 600 patients (54.3%, female) attending for management of pigmentary disorders. The mean age at time of clinic attendance was 34.5 ± 17.0 years. Vitamin D deficiency, anemia, and abnormal thyroid serology were present in 36.5%, 8.4%, and 6.6% of patients, respectively. Among vitiligo patients, a positive family history of vitiligo and autoimmune disease was present in 17.0% and 20.1% of patients, respectively. Serological testing revealed a 29.5% prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity. A mean treatment time of 1.04 ± 0.62 years was required to decrease dermatology life quality index (DLQI) scores from severe to mild (P < 0.001). Based on DLQI scores, 59% of severe and 18% of patients with moderate scores reduced their baseline scores to mild at follow-up (mean follow-up time of 1.21 ± 1.01 years).

Conclusion:

This study is the first to investigate the profile and management of patients with pigmentary disorders and highlights the need for such a clinic in an increasingly multiracial Australia.
Mental Stress and Well-being among Low-income Older Adults During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Vicerra Paolo Miguel Manalang
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

Insecurities with food and economic resources, housing discontent, and mental stress were experienced by vulnerable populations, especially older adults, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

This study examined the association of poverty based on resource scarcity with life satisfaction as an indicator of well-being during the COVID-19 outbreak in Thailand. It also tested the mediating effect of mental stress. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze data from the 2021 Survey on Housing and Support Services for Poor Older Adults which involved low-income Thais aged at least 55 years. On testing for multigroup differences, the model was applied separately to urban and rural samples.

Results:

Findings from the urban sample indicated that resource scarcity was associated with life satisfaction based on the direct (β = 0.686, P < 0.01), indirect (β = 0.105, P < 0.05), and total effects (β = 0.790, P < 0.001). Mental stress (β = 0.304, P < 0.05) was also associated with life satisfaction. For the rural sample, resource scarcity was associated with life satisfaction (β = 0.159, P < 0.05) only when mental stress acted as a mediator.

Conclusion:

This theme is important to better understand the well-being status of older people in an aging society with a developing economy. Recognizing that the physical and policy environment for urban and rural residences have an influence on the mental health and well-being of this age group can contribute to addressing their needs in times of social shocks like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Brief Resilience Interventions for Mental Health among College Students
Authors: Kadian Shabnam , Joseph Jaison , Pal Sat , Devi Rajeshwari
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

The resilience interventions have the potential to enhance the protective factors to prevent mental health problems in young adolescents. The present study evaluated the feasibility of brief resilience interventions in a sample of college students.

Methods:

The present randomized controlled study was conducted among 220 college students and the study protocol was registered in the Clinical Trials Registry of India (Ref. No. CTRI/2021/04/032716). The participants were randomly allocated to two groups: (i) A brief resilience intervention program group and (ii) a resilience self-help pamphlet group. The brief resilience intervention program is based on positive psychology and consists of two sessions, delivered on a 2-week interval period. The outcome measures were changes in the scores of the Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS), Perceived Stress Scale, and Patient Health Questionnaire-4.

Results:

The mean age of the participants was 19.31 years (standard deviation – 1.17) and both the study groups were comparable during baseline (P > 0.05). At the 1-month follow-up, there was a slight increase in the mean BRCS scores of the brief resilience intervention group (15.57 vs. 15.87) as compared to the resilience self-help pamphlet group (16.15 vs. 15.79). There was no evidence that brief resilience intervention was superior to the self-help booklet in any of the outcome measures (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Brief resilience interventions have the potential to promote resilience and coping skills among college-going students in this setting. The integration of brief resilience interventions among college-based cohorts would appear to be an appropriate strategy for building protective factors to bolster resilience.
Characterization and Modification of Activated Carbon Generated from Annogeissus Leiocarpus
Authors: Abdullahi Aliyu , Tsafe Abdullahi , Liman Muhammad , Ibrahim Nasir
Published: August 2022

Activated carbon (AC) is a versatile adsorbent that is used in the treatment of waste water, colour, odour removal and CO2 capture. Annogeissus leiocarpus is one of abundant agricultural precursor that can be used for the production of activated carbon. Characterization was done to investigate some proximate parameters. The modifications were made by soaking AC in 40% H2SO4 and 40% NaHCO3 for 24hours in the ration of 1:3 w/v. The FT-IR and SEM was conducted for surface functional group and morphology respectively. The result of this study revealed that the activated carbon produced possessed high yield, low Ash content, low Burnt off, low moisture content Average bulk density and large pore volume. The results from FT-IR analysis identified appearance and disappearance of carbonyl and hydroxyl groups which contributed in the creation of more adsorptive site for adsorption process. The results for SEM indicated the development of pores all over the surface of adsorbent with Acid modified activated carbon (AMAC/ H2SO4) having the highest pore distribution followed by Base Modified Activated Carbon (BMAC/NaHCO3) and finally ordinary (AC). The results suggest that the modification of AC using Acid and Base can significantly enhance the surface properties which improves adsorptive properties of the activated carbon produced and enhances it adsorption potentials for wastewater treatment.
Determination of Appropriate Source-to-Detector Distance Dependence of Gamma Spectrometry System to Achieve Higher Resolution
Authors: Abubakar Usman , Nor Norehan , Shehu Anas , Abubakar Sirajo , Umar Muttaka
Published: August 2022

Operation of gamma spectrometry requires intensive monitoring of gamma ray fluxes. When a radioactive intense source is placed close to a crystal detector, it becomes saturated as a result of detector dead time. On the contrary, when placed far away, there is loss of count statistics. For this reason, optimal position for placing the source has to be investigated. With the improvement in the instrumentation of radiation detection applications over the years, high count rate measurement accuracy is more crucial than ever. This is due to periodic measurement and new correction models for dead time. The aim of this study is to examine the performance of two gamma spectroscopic systems. The source detector distance dependence on dead time, peak-to-compton ratio, overall amplifier gain, FWHM, and voltage variation were investigated using American standard procedures (ANSI/IEE -325). Measurements were performed at five (5) different distances of detector cap for four (4) point sources (Co-60, Eu-152, Cs-137 and Ba-133). Source-to-detector distance at 25 cm was improved to avoid summing coincidence and dead time correction. The results obtained at 25 cm showed that the dead time was found less than 1% as compared to 4 cm. This will describe the stability of dead time. It also indicated that for both detectors the rise in biased voltage will yield a good resolution at 1332.5 KeV. This study is significant as it provides information to ensure that detectors are kept at optimal distance to achieve good dead time.