bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standardization of Arithmetical Work
Authors: Vosburgh W. L.
Published: January 2021

For an understanding of the scope of this discussion, it seems necessary to define at the outset the term “standardization” as herein used. “Standardization of arithmetical work” is to be considered from the point of view of modern educational psychology, viz., that its basis be the facts of arithmetical experience rather than mere opinions regarding the same. This view implies the possibility of establishing objective scales for measuring arithmetical abilities.
Signed Areas Applied to “Recreations of Geometry”
Authors: Trimble H. C.
Published: January 2021

The teacher of plane geometry is sometimes confronted with “proofs” which seem to contradict the postulates upon which the subject rests. Eight such proofs are listed in Wentworth's Plane Geometry, Revised by Wentworth and Smith, Ginn and Company, 1910, pages 273 to 276, under the heading “Recreations of Geometry.” Variations of these problems continue to arise and to perplex perseverent students of plane geometry.
A Problem in Elementary Algebra
Authors: Dubisch Roy
Published: January 2021

The following problem, while not new, seems to have escaped the attention of text-book writers in the particular form given here and hence it is perhaps unknown to many teachers. Its value lies not only in the keen interest it stimulates in students in this aeronautical age but in it being an example of the use of algebra in correcting “common-sense” judgments.
The Future of Visual Aids in Mathematics
Authors: Johnson Donovan A. , Nickerson James F.
Published: January 2021

A period of rapid expansion of teaching materials such as motion picture films, film strips, three dimensional pictures, mathematical instruments and models, both of an instructional and an enrichment nature, lies immediately before us. Are we going to give individual and collective aid in directing this expansion in the most desirable and efficient direction? The need for this direction is very evident to all who have seen some of the teaching aids that are now available in the field of mathematics education.
Mathematics for Responsible Citizenship
Authors: Fawcett Harold P.
Published: January 2021

During recent years, we have seen the peoples of the earth engaged in the mobilization of their material, intellectual, and spiritual resources for a mortal struggle between two opposing philosophies of government. We have heard the rumble of roaring tanks, the hum of many bombers, and the tread of marching feet; but above these symbols of military might we have heard the steady and persistent call for young men and women who are mathematically literate. The demands of modern citizenship have revealed with impressive effect that proficiency in the field of mathematics is a powerful military asset in a world that is girded for war. The guns are now silent. The bombers are quiet. The concept of one world echoes vaguely but unmistakably through the council chambers of the universe and against this background I wish to present the proposition that mathematical literacy is likewise a powerful asset for responsible citizenship in a world that is planning for peace.
The Professional Needs of Secondary School Teachers of Mathematics
Authors: Snader Daniel W.
Published: January 2021

There are several understandable reasons for selecting this subject, “The Professional Needs of Secondary School Teachers of Mathematics,” for my discussion with you this morning. I believe it is good practice for members of our profession to take a periodic inventory of the work we have accomplished and to see how nearly we have reached our professional objectives. It is essential that we fulfill this obligation with open minds, critically evaluating our achievements, determining our weaknesses and strengths, and finally planning a course of action which will make our teaching more dynamic, purposeful, and altogether more effective.
Why a Label?
Authors: Tobey Wm. S.
Published: January 2021

Since only a small minority of our secondary pupils elect the so-called college- preparatory mathematics, and an even smaller minority can profit from it, why must we label all other offerings in mathematics? We offer mathematics of a general consumer type to all pupils of the ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth years who wish to elect it, and for as many years as they choose to pursue it, limited only by graduation from senior high school. For those who must meet certain requirements we offer special subjects such as algebra, plane and solid geometry, and trigonometry.
The Engineering Staff's Responsibilities and Opportunities in the Improvement of Learning and Teaching of Mathematics in the Secondary School
Authors: Zant James H.
Published: January 2021

The fact that many prospective engineers are not properly prepared in mathematics has been recognized for a long time. Some mathematics teachers profess to see a steady deterioration in the quality of the high school student as he comes to the engineering college. At a conference of college and high school teachers of mathematics held in New York last year the following conclusions were drawn.
A Super-Plan!! Dedicated to All Security Worshippers
Authors: Watkeys C. W.
Published: January 2021

A new party is being formed which will be called the Super Ultra Progressive Party, hereafter known as the SUP Party, pronounced the Soup Party as in “Soup of the Evening, beautiful, beautiful soup.” The fundamental goal of the SUP Party is the establishment of Automatic Economy to take the place of Planned Economy. Under Planned Economy the battle of words has reached colossal heights. With as much repetition as a Tibetan Prayer-wheel the respective camps blare forth stridently the terms “avaricous facists,” “reactionary capitalists,” “autocratic communists,” “self-centered, short-sighted trade unionist,” words, words with little meaning. To eliminate this strife we must pass through the puerile stage of Planned Economy to the final stage of Automatic Economy.
A Golden Decade of Popular Mathematics
Authors: Lloyd Daniel B.
Published: January 2021

Ten years ago the author published in a professional journal1 his original “Bibliography of Popular Mathematics.” The constant demand since then for reprints of this has attested to the need for such material by school clubs and individuals interested in the popular side of mathematics. The intervening decade has witnessed the publication of an unprecedented amount of material devoted to interesting and popular phases of this subject, which throughout the ages has been a constant lure for the layman and the professional investigator alike.
The Art of Teaching: Individual Instruction in College Algebra
Authors: Danieley J. E.
Published: January 2021

There is no method of instruction which is a panacea for all of the ills in teaching college algebra. In any classroom there are four or more variables which enter into the effectiveness of the learning situation: (1) the physical environment, (2) the class, (3) the subject, and (4) the teacher. As any one of these conditions varies, the method must also be varied if the teaching is to be most effective.
A Course in College Mathematics for a Program of General Education
Authors: Newson C. V.
Published: January 2021

The factors involved in the educational process arc so complex that it is difficult to find agreement among thinking men upon fundamental matters of educational policy. Thus we have a multitude of plans and movements in the field of education; this seems to be especially true during the past couple of decades, perhaps because of the growing complexity of life itself. However, a close inspection of the situation in American education seems to reveal one trend of recent years that is undeniable; that is, there is remarkable agreement on the fundamental proposition that specialization should not start too early, that a broad background in the various fields of knowledge is prerequisite to genuine success in any one narrow field of endeavor.
What Are the Mathematical Needs of the High School Student?
Authors: Zant James H.
Published: January 2021

In deciding what mathematics should be taught at any grade level it is necessary to know the mathematical needs of the students. However, unless we subscribe to the doctrine that no one should learn more about anything than he will need to live at that particular age level, we must also consider the future needs of the students as well. I do not subscribe to this doctrine, hence in this discussion considerable weight will be given to the mathematical needs of adults in deciding what shall be taught to children. This seems especially necessary at the high school level, since, in the case of mathematics, the student is often taking his last course in the subject.
Outgrowth of a Philosophical Approach to the Teaching of Mathematics
Authors: Covey Elizabeth Baker
Published: January 2021

This program was the outgrowth of special emphasis in the teaching of mathematics in my classes in the National Cathedral School. During the last six weeks of the fourth year the pupils’ home work was devoted entirely to reading mathematics history. (Most of the class- work was confined to textbook review.) Each girl was given two assignments—one covering the general outline of history and another covering either a special division of mathematics or the life of a prominent mathematician.
How Can We Improve Instruction and Achievement in Arithmetic?
Authors: Williams Dolphus
Published: January 2021

To people who are not actually working with mathematics, but who require calculations in their affairs it seems, all too often, that the helpers they employ are short in their skill at handling figures. The criticism, also, by the Armed Forces that the draftees lacked mathematical skill requires some explanation.
Membership Message
Authors: Rogers Mary C.
Published: January 2021

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics brings cordial greetings to you and your colleagues and extends best wishes for a continuance and enhancement of the excellent professional services which you are rendering in your classrooms and in your communities—both local and country-wide.
What Kind of Geometry Shall We Teach?
Authors: Van Waynen M.
Published: January 2021

Several, years ago I wrote an article1 in which comparison was made between the merits of the traditional geometry course and the newly inspired course which focuses attention on the principles of logical thought and its application to everyday situations. Needless to say, my article favored the latter. Several experiments2 have been conducted to substantiate this choice, each one proving to a statistician's satisfaction that the pupils of the experimental classes acquire the usually attained geometric achievement while definitely managing to surpass the control classes with scores of nearly two to one in reasoning achievement. In spite of the evidence at hand, however, what if anything is being done to improve the situation? Very little it seems.
Have You Heard?
Authors: Woolsey Edith
Published: January 2021

The Denver mathematics teachers scored again. The summer meeting of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics was at the University of Colorado in Denver from August 29 through September 1. This was the third meeting the Council has had there and, from reports that have reached us, was the most successful. Mrs. Alma B. Cockburn, who teaches at the Liggett School in Detroit, has written an account of the meeting for her school paper and it is being published here so all of you can share her enthusiasm.
Junior College Mathematics in View of the President's Report
Authors: Karnes Houston T.
Published: January 2021

Most junior college teachers are conversant with the development of the junior college in this country, as well as the controversy with regard to its relationship to the secondary school on the one hand and to the senior college on the other. The junior college is relatively new and the debates have been frequent and long over its classification and the curriculum it should offer. Being new was not the only reason for the controversies; the fact of variation in type had a great deal to do with it. There was the so-called finishing school for women, the small church school, the state school serving as a feeder for its university, and the schools which were formed simply by adding two years to the existing secondary school program. This variation in type hindered the formulation of general curriculum patterns. Beyond this the junior college, formed by adding two years of work to a secondary school program, had the most difficult problems in its heterogeneous student body—that is, students who were planning to go on to a senior college and those who were ending their formal education with the fourteenth year.
A Japanese Version of the History of Mathematics
Authors: Kasner Edward , Harrison Irene
Published: January 2021

During the last year we have had extensive correspondence in English with a young Japanese engineer, J. Okita, regarding translation of “Mathematics and the Imagination” into Japanese.
Mathematics—Its Role Today
Authors: Hunt Herold C.
Published: January 2021

Let me suggest at the outset as I bid you a delayed but no less sincere and hearty welcome to Chicago, where this week you have convened in annual session that the topic graciously assigned me, “Mathematics—Its Role Today,” appeals to me tremendously. Surely it is most timely for today in the year 1950 we have come to the midpoint of the twentieth century—the midpoint which presents a strategic opportunity for both a backward and a forward look which permits an appraisal of what has been done thus far, what we are now accomplishing, and what trends our activities must take to make the last half of the century productive of the goals we seek.
A “Self-Starter” Approach to Fractions
Authors: Hall Jack V.
Published: January 2021

The development of the Model T Ford was a highlight in the history of transportation. Yet, as most of us fondly recall, it had shortcomings. The early models had to be cranked to start. Model T Fords are scarce in the rapid traffic of today. In contrast, “Model T” arithmetic teaching procedures are still in evidence in many of our classrooms. Too many teachers of arithmetic are still “cranking children's mental motors” by forcing them to memorize mathematical principles and generalizations stripped of meaningful introductory experiences.
Notes On the History of Mathematics: Counters; Computing if You Can Count to Five
Authors: Sanford Vera
Published: January 2021

Ordinary computation can be accomplished with a minimum of learning by using the loose counter abacus and the counting board. The counting board is a flat surface marked with a series of parallel lines whose values are 1, 10, 100, 1000. The counters are small, easily handled objects,—pebbles, metal disks about the size of a penny, or even, for present-day experimentation, paperclips. The position of a counter shows its value. The number 1432 is indicated by placing one counter on the thousands line, four on the hundreds line, three on the tens, and two on the units line.
Book Section
Authors: Stipanowich J.
Published: January 2021

This section presents the latest books which have been received for review in The Mathematics Teacher. Reviews of many of these books will appear in the monthly issues. Members of the Council are invited to send us further comments or corrections of errors relating to any of the books mentioned. In addition, a free loan service has been arranged whereby any member may borrow any of the books listed for a period not to exceed two weeks. Requests should be addressed to The Mathematics Teacher, 212 Lunt Building, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois.
Points and Viewpoints: An answer to Lee Emerson Boyer's paper
Authors: Karnes Houston T.
Published: January 2021

In his paper, “A New Responsibility of Teacher Education Programs,”1 Professor Boyer has raised an issue which has been on the minds of many for several years. Professor Boyer recognizes the importance of the two-track program in the secondary-school curriculum and then proceeds to discuss the training of teachers to administer this program. His main thought is that there should be a two-track teacher-training program.
Points And Viewpoints: Common goals of mathematics teachers and of the National Council
Authors: Mayor John R.
Published: January 2021

A department presenting the views of the officers of The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.
Tips for Beginners: Handling reviews
Authors: Lankford Francis G.
Published: January 2021

Have you been dissatisfied with your way of handling reviews of previous work? Here are some helpful suggestions.
A Study of the Reliability of Test Questions
Authors: Chambers George Gailey
Published: January 2021

This paper is a study of a test on deductive reasoning and a comparison of the results of that test with the teachers’ marks in plane geometry. T his test was given to 49 high-school girls who had just completed a half year’s work in plane geometry covering during that time the first two books of Robbins & Somerville’s text-book. Previous to their study of geometry they had studied algebra through simultaneous quadratics, spending on that 5 periods a week for one school year and 2 periods a week of ¼ of a school year. That was followed by 2 periods a week for ¼ of a school year in constructive geometry. In the case of 5 of these girls we have been unable to obtain the teacher’s marks, so that in this paper the answers of only 44 girls are taken into account.
Mathematics Clubs in the High School
Authors: Snell C. A.
Published: January 2021

It is barely possible that some of you have so many high-school clubs and societies, with the effects of which you have to contend, that the suggestion of another club may not meet your approval. The kind of club, however, that I have to describe to you is based upon scholarship, proficiency and interest in mathematics and, from its very nature, would not attract the element that enjoys “adding tone” to societies.
Geometric Reflections: Why Should They Not Be Just a Flip?
Authors: Teuscher Dawn , Dingman Shannon , Olson Travis A. , Kasmer Lisa A.
Published: January 2021

Using descriptions from popular textbooks, the authors share the importance of introducing the definition so students can make sense of reflections both on and off the coordinate grid.
New Persistent Opioid and Benzodiazepine Use After Curative-Intent Treatment in Patients With Breast Cancer
Authors: Sakamoto Mandy R. , Eguchi Megan , Azelby Christine M. , Diamond Jennifer R. , Fisher Christine M. , Borges Virginia F. , Bradley Cathy J. , Kabos Peter
Published: January 2021

Background:Opioid and benzodiazepine use and abuse is a national healthcare crisis to which patients with cancer are particularly vulnerable. Long-term use and risk factors for opioid and benzodiazepine use in patients with breast cancer is poorly characterized.Methods:We conducted a retrospective population-based study of patients with breast cancer diagnosed between 2008 and 2015 undergoing curative-intent treatment identified through the SEER-Medicare linked database. Primary outcomes were new persistent opioid use and new persistent benzodiazepine use. Factors associated with new opioid and benzodiazepine use were investigated by univariate and multivariable logistic regression.Results:Among opioid-naïve patients, new opioid use was observed in 22,418 (67.4%). Of this group, 611 (2.7%) developed persistent opioid use at 3 months and 157 (0.7%) at 6 months after treatment. Risk factors for persistent use at 3 and 6 months included stage III disease (odds ratio [OR], 2.16; 95% CI, 1.49–3.12, and OR, 3.48; 95% CI, 1.58–7.67), surgery plus chemotherapy (OR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.10–1.88, and OR, 2.28; 95% CI, 1.40–3.71), surgery plus chemoradiation therapy (OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.10–1.96, and OR, 2.34; 95% CI, 1.38–3.96), and initial tramadol use (OR, 2.66; 95% CI, 2.05–3.46, and OR, 3.12; 95% CI, 1.93–5.04). Among benzodiazepine-naïve patients, new benzodiazepine use was observed in 955 (10.3%), and 111 (11.6%) developed new persistent use at 3 months. Tamoxifen use was statistically significantly associated with new persistent benzodiazepine use at 3 months.Conclusions:A large percentage of patients receiving curative-intent treatment of breast cancer were prescribed new opioids; however, only a small number developed new persistent opioid use. In contrast, a smaller proportion of patients received a new benzodiazepine prescription; however, new persistent use after completion of treatment was more likely and particularly related to concurrent treatment with tamoxifen.
Targeting the NTRK Fusion Gene in Pancreatic Acinar Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Gupta Medhavi , Sherrow Christopher , Krone Maghan E. , Blais Edik M. , Pishvaian Michael J. , Petricoin Emanuel F. , Matrisian Lynn M. , DeArbeloa Patricia , Gregory Gary , Brown Alyson , Zalewski Olivia , Prinzing Gillian , Roche Charles , Kanehira Kazunori , Mukherjee Sarbajit , Iyer Renuka , Fountzilas Christos
Published: January 2021

Pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma (PACC) is a rare pancreatic exocrine malignancy. Compared with the more common pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), PACC is more common in younger White men, has earlier stages and a lower mean age (56 vs 70 years) at the time of presentation, and has a better prognosis. In addition to differences in demographic, histologic, and clinical characteristics, PACC has a genomic profile distinct from PDAC, with only rare mutations in TP53, KRAS, and p16 that are commonly found in PDAC. This case report presents a man aged 81 years who presented with a pancreatic body mass with peripancreatic lymph node enlargement. Biopsy of the mass showed acinar cell carcinoma. The patient underwent upfront surgical resection, followed by one cycle of adjuvant gemcitabine, with stoppage of therapy due to poor tolerance. Lower-dose gemcitabine was reintroduced after disease progression 6 months later. Nab-paclitaxel was added to gemcitabine after 6 cycles because of a continued increase in the size of peripancreatic lymph nodes. Combination chemotherapy was stopped after 4 cycles because of further disease progression with new liver metastasis. Molecular testing showed the presence of an SEL1L-NTRK1 fusion. Targeted therapy was started with the oral neurotrophic tropomyosin receptor kinase (NTRK) inhibitor larotrectinib at a dosage of 100 mg twice daily. At the time of writing, the patient has been on therapy for 13 months with an exceptional radiographic response and has not experienced any grade 3 adverse effects. To our knowledge, this is the first clinical report of an NTRK gene fusion in a patient with PACC. This case study highlights the significance of tumor molecular profiling in patients with pancreatic tumors, especially rare histologies.
Successful treatment of venous leg ulcer with platelet-rich fibrin
Authors:   Department of Dermatology and Allergology Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical Center University of Szeged, Kui Róbert , Vasas Judit , Szolnoki Győző , Kemény Lajos
Published: January 2021

The autologous platelet-rich blood derivatives have been used in bioregenerative medicine for decades in various indications including the facilitation of wound healing. Leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a second-generation autologous blood-derived product, which can be obtained relatively easily and at low cost. PRF is rich in growth factors and antimicrobial proteins that are released by activated platelets and leukocytes. The authors present a successful treatment of a venous leg ulcer providing a detailed presentation of the PRF method.
Kjønn på dagsordenen: Et ikketema i yrkesfaglærerutdanningene?
Authors: Hansen Kari H. , Haaland Grete , Møller Ellen , Vagle Inger
Published: January 2021

Hensikten med denne artikkelen er å sette kjønn på dagsordenen i yrkesfaglærerutdanningene. Som lærerutdannere ønsker vi å belyse hvordan perspektivet på kjønn og mangfold ivaretas i planverket for yrkesfaglærerutdanningene i tre fylker i Norge, samt hvordan yrkesfaglærere kan bidra til å skape bedre kjønnsbalanse i yrkesopplæringen. Mangel på reell valgfrihet i yrkesopplæring og arbeidsliv er fremdeles en samfunnsutfordring. Det er i liten grad lagt til rette for at verken jenter eller gutter kan være minoriteter i yrkesopplæringen og i arbeidslivet. #metoo har ført til økt åpenhet rundt kjønnsubalanse og har satt denne problematikken på dagsordenen også i det yrkesfaglige utdanningsfeltet.I artikkelen besvares følgende problemstilling: Hvordan kan kjønn som minoritet ivaretas i yrkesopplæringen?Artikkelens utgangspunkt er en tematisk analyse av resultater fra en dialogkonferanse for fagar-beidere, lærere og rådgivere i videregående opplæring, samt nasjonale føringer og lokale planer som legger føringer for yrkesfaglærerutdanningene. Datagrunnlaget fra dialogkonferansen er basert på deltagernes egne erfaringer med yrkesopplæringen.De politiske føringene om arbeid for bedre kjønnsbalanse i utdanning og arbeidsliv videreføres i svært liten grad i planer for praktisk- pedagogisk utdanning for yrkesfag (PPUY) og treårig yrkesfaglærerutdanning (YFL). Dette kan føre til at yrkesfaglærere utvikler liten bevissthet rundt utfordringer knyttet til dette feltet, samt hvordan de profesjonsfaglig kan håndtere disse. Funnene drøftes i forhold til relevant teori og nyere kjønnsforskning på feltet.r
Febrile Polyarthritis: Should We Think About Disseminated Gonococcal Infection
Authors: Ghribi Mariem , Marzouk Sameh , Derbel Abir , Snoussi Mouna , Bahloul Zouhir
Published: January 2021

Gonococcal disease is a sexually transmitted infection. The responsible agent is Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Disseminated gonococcal infection results from blood dissemination of N. gonorrhoeae from its mucosal first site of infection. In our cases, two patients had systematic lupus erythematous, in which one patient developed a dermetitis-arthritis syndrome and the other patient developed a febrile polyarthritis. The third patient was a healthy female who developed a dermetitis-arthritis syndrome. The treatment consisted of intravenous antibiotic and immobilization. The evolution was favorable in all of our cases.
Characterization of Wind Profile over Wheat and Mustard Canopies under Sole and Intercropped Conditions in Lower Gangetic Plain of Eastern India
Authors: Jena Sarika , Chakraborty Pramiti K. , Bandyopadhyay Pintoo , Nath Rajib , Chakraborty Prodip Kumar
Published: January 2021

Aim: Wind profile over a crop canopy affects several physiological processes. The nature of the wind profile above the crop canopy of a single crop has been reported in the literature. However, under intercropping system, the nature of wind profile isn’t well discussed.

Methodology: With this background, a two-year experiment was conducted with five different crop combinations (T1- sole wheat, T2- sole mustard, T3- two wheat: six mustard, T4- four wheat: four mustard and T5- six wheat: two mustard) in  Rndomized Block Design (RBD) of 54 m2 plot size. Wind speed was measured at 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 m above the crop canopy from 9:30 to 13:30 hour at two-hour interval. The observations were taken from 30 to 80 days after emergence (DAE) at weekly interval.

Results: Results showed that the wind speed gradually increased with the increment of height over the sole wheat. Wind speed sharply declined under intercropping over the wheat canopy. The percentage reduction in T3 was maximal on 58 DAE. The wind speed gradually increased with height for all observations in mustard irrespective of treatment combinations. However, under intercropping, wind speed reduced marginally at 0.5 m above mustard height compared to the sole mustard.

Conclusion: Reduced wind speed over wheat canopy causes reduction of mass and momentum transfer thus reducing the carbon exchange rate which might be one of the reasons for lower biomass production in wheat-mustard intercrop in comparison to sole wheat crop.
Serum Zinc Levels of Under Five Children with Diarrheal Disease
Authors: Ikejiaku U. P. , Anochie I. , Nwolisa E. C. , Iregbu F. U. , Amamilo I. B.
Published: January 2021

Background: Diarrhoea is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children below five years of age especially in developing countries. One of the consequences of diarrhoea in children is zinc deficiency, which may worsen the diarrhoea itself, and thus increase morbidity and mortality.

Aim and Objectives: The study aimed to determine the serum zinc status of under five children with diarrhoea attending Federal Medical Centre Owerri. Also, to compare the serum zinc level between children with diarrhoea and their age and sex-matched controls, as well as determine the relationship, if any between types of diarrhoea, and frequency of diarrhoea episodes.

Methodology: The study was a comparative cross-sectional study carried out at the Emergency Paediatric Unit, The Children’s Outpatient Clinic and The Children’s Ward of the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri. A total of 402 study participants were analyzed. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data including participants’ socio demographic characteristics, the clinical presentation of the present diarrhoeal episode, as well as the frequency and duration of diarrhoeal episodes in the preceding year. Serum zinc was assessed using Varian AA240 Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.

Results: The prevalence of zinc deficiency in children with diarrhoea was 84.1% while that of children without diarrhoea was 56.2%. Mean serum zinc level was significantly lower in children with diarrhoea when compared to their age and sex matched controls (p=0.000). All children with persistent diarrhoea and dysentery had zinc deficiency. Children with persistent diarrhoea had significantly lower serum levels when compared to children with acute watery diarrhoea. There was a negative correlation between serum zinc level and frequency of stool, duration of the present episode of diarrhoea, frequency of diarrhoea episodes, and the duration of each episode of diarrhoea in the preceding year and the severity of dehydration.

Conclusion: The findings of this study support the present recommendation of the World Health Organization for zinc supplementation in children with diarrhoea, and recommends that children with persistent diarrhoea should have longer treatment with zinc tablets.
Radiation Dose to the Closest Critical Organ during External Beam Radiotherapy of Head & Neck, Breast and Cervix at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: I. Akinlade Bidemi , M. Adenuga Temitope , A. Aborisade Caleb , P. Farai Idowu
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Radiotherapy is the use of ionizing radiation for treatment of diseases, mostly malignant and non-malignant. Its goal is to deliver maximum radiation dose to tumour cells while minimizing dose to the surrounding normal cells. Studies have shown that patients who underwent radiotherapy usually receive highest scattered radiation dose to organs closest to the treatment sites due to inevitable exposure and making them susceptible to cancer induction. This study aims at quantify scattered radiation dose to closest critical organs during external beam radiotherapy of the head & neck, breast, and cervix at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: Seventy-nine patients living with cancer in the region of head & neck, breast or cervix, who gave permission to participate were considered. The closest critical organs of interest are the eye lens, thyroid and femur head respectively. Thermoluminescence dosimeters (TLDs) were used to measure scattered radiation dose to these reference organs during radiation therapy of the target organs. After each treatment session, the exposed TLDs were taken to the designated Research Laboratory for processing with manual TLD reader system, HARSHAW, model 3500. 

Results: The mean scattered radiation doses to reference organs during the treatment of head & neck, breast and cervical cancer cases were 110 ±77 cGy (Eye lens), 211 ± 83 cGy (Thyroid), and 319 ±103 cGy (Femur head) respectively.

Conclusion: In all, Femur head received the highest (87% of prescribed dose to target organ) scattered radiation dose followed by thyroid (54%) and the eye lens (32%) from their respective target organ.
Opportunities for respiratory disease transmission from people to chimpanzees at an East African tourism site
Authors: Glasser Darcey B. , Goldberg Tony L. , Guma Nelson , Balyesiima Godfrey , Agaba Hillary , Gessa Simplicious J. , Rothman Jessica M.
Published: January 2021

Respiratory illnesses, including COVID‐19, present a serious threat to endangered wild chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) populations. In some parts of sub‐Saharan Africa, chimpanzee tracking is a popular tourism activity, offering visitors a chance to view apes in their natural habitats. Chimpanzee tourism is an important source of revenue and thus benefits conservation; however, chimpanzee tracking may also increase the risk of disease transmission from people to chimpanzees directly (e.g., via aerosol transmission) or indirectly (e.g., through the environment or via fomites). This study assessed how tourist behaviors might facilitate respiratory disease transmission at a chimpanzee tracking site in Kibale National Park, Uganda. We observed tourists, guides, and student interns from the time they entered the forest to view the chimpanzees until they left the forest and noted behaviors related to disease transmission. Common behaviors included coughing, sneezing, and urinating, which respectively occurred during 88.1%, 65.4%, and 36.6% of excursions. Per excursion, individuals touched their faces an average of 125.84 ± 34.45 times and touched large tree trunks or branches (which chimpanzees might subsequently touch) an average of 230.14 ± 108.66 times. These results show that many pathways exist by which pathogens might move from humans to chimpanzees in the context of tourism. Guidelines for minimizing the risk of such transmission should consider tourist behavior and the full range of modes by which pathogen transmission might occur between tourists and chimpanzees.
Formation and Characterization of BeFe(CO)4− Anion with Beryllium−Iron Bonding
Authors: Wang Guanjun , Zhao Jing , Hu Han‐Shi , Li Jun , Zhou Mingfei
Published: January 2021

Heteronuclear BeFe(CO)4− anion complex is generated in the gas phase, which is detected by mass‐selected infrared photodissociation spectroscopy in the carbonyl stretching frequency region. The complex is characterized to have a Be−Fe bonded Be−Fe(CO)4− structure with C3v symmetry and all of the four carbonyl ligands bonded on the iron center. Quantum chemical studies indicate that the complex has a quite short Be−Fe bond. Besides one electron‐sharing σ bond, there are two additional, albeit weak, Be ← Fe(CO)4− dative π bonding interactions. The findings imply that metal–metal bonding between s‐block and transition metals is viable under suitable coordination environment.
Giving the invisible hand a helping hand: How ‘Grants Offices’ work to nourish neoliberal researchers
Authors: Beime Kristina S. , Englund Hans , Gerdin Jonas
Published: January 2021

Neoliberalism has become a highly dominating and taken‐for‐granted way of organising the university sector around the world. In the critical educational literature, this market‐based rationality has been scrutinised in detail over the past decades. However, rather scant attention has been directed to how university managers and administrators, apart from setting up quasi‐markets, may intervene more directly to give the invisible hand of the market a helping hand. Aiming to address this lacuna, the purpose of the current article is to develop an empirically grounded taxonomy of different types of such interventions, and to theorise them in terms of the different facets of the neoliberal milieu that they reproduce and the various forms of subjectivising work among academics that they seek to engender. We do so by means of a qualitative study of so‐called ‘Grants Offices’ at three Swedish universities. The findings arguably add to and problematise our understanding of how neoliberal markets work in academia in three different ways. First, while extant research has noted that university managers and administrators may intervene beyond the setting up of neoliberal markets per se, our study is to our knowledge the first one that identifies and systematises a broad array of such interventions. Second, it problematises the view of neoliberal markets as a form of monolithic entity that produces a uniform competitive pressure on academics. Third, and related, it furthers our understanding of the type of subjectivity that competitive milieus are assumed to bring about.
Real‐time ensemble microalgae growth forecasting with data assimilation
Authors: Yan Hongxiang , Wigmosta Mark S. , Sun Ning , Huesemann Michael H. , Gao Song
Published: January 2021

Accurate short‐range (e.g., 7 days) microalgae growth forecasts will be beneficial for both the production and harvesting of microalgae. This study developed an operational microalgae growth forecasting system comprised of the Huesemann Algae Biomass Growth Model (BGM), the Modular Aquatic Simulation System in Two Dimensions (MASS2) hydrodynamic model, and ensemble data assimilation (DA). The novelty of this study is the use of ensemble DA to sequentially update the BGM model's initial condition (IC) with the assimilation of measured biomass optical density to improve short‐range biomass forecasting skills. The forecasting system was run in pseudo‐real‐time and validated against observed Monoraphidium minutum 26B‐AM growth in two outdoor pond cultures located in Mesa, Arizona, United States. We found the DA forecasting system could improve the 7‐day microalgae forecasting skill by about 85% on average compared to model forecasts without DA. These results suggest the potential accuracy of biomass growth forecasts may be sufficient to inform real‐time operational decisions, such as pond operation and harvest planning, for commercial‐scale microalgae production.
How well do clinical and demographic characteristics predict Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 scores among patients with treatment‐resistant major depressive disorder in a real‐world setting?
Authors: Voelker Jennifer , Joshi Kruti , Daly Ella , Papademetriou Eros , Rotter David , Sheehan John J. , Kuvadia Harsh , Liu Xing , Dasgupta Anandaroop , Potluri Ravi
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To create and validate a model to predict depression symptom severity among patients with treatment‐resistant depression (TRD) using commonly recorded variables within medical claims databases.

Methods

Adults with TRD (here defined as > 2 antidepressant treatments in an episode, suggestive of nonresponse) and ≥ 1 Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)‐9 record on or after the index TRD date were identified (2013–2018) in Decision Resource Group's Real World Data Repository, which links an electronic health record database to a medical claims database. A total of 116 clinical/demographic variables were utilized as predictors of the study outcome of depression symptom severity, which was measured by PHQ‐9 total score category (score: 0–9 = none to mild, 10–14 = moderate, 15–27 = moderately severe to severe). A random forest approach was applied to develop and validate the predictive model.

Results

Among 5,356 PHQ‐9 scores in the study population, the mean (standard deviation) PHQ‐9 score was 10.1 (7.2). The model yielded an accuracy of 62.7%. For each predicted depression symptom severity category, the mean observed scores (8.0, 12.2, and 16.2) fell within the appropriate range.

Conclusions

While there is room for improvement in its accuracy, the use of a machine learning tool that predicts depression symptom severity of patients with TRD can potentially have wide population‐level applications. Healthcare systems and payers can build upon this groundwork and use the variables identified and the predictive modeling approach to create an algorithm specific to their population.
Visible‐Light‐Mediated Oxidative Amidation of Aldehydes by Using Magnetic CdS Quantum Dots as a Photocatalyst
Authors: Xu Ling , Zhang Shuai‐Zheng , Li Wei , Zhang Zhan‐Hui
Published: January 2021

A magnetic CdS quantum dot (Fe3O4/polydopamine (PDA)/CdS) was synthesized through a facile and convenient method from inexpensive starting materials. Characterization of the prepared catalyst was performed by means of FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, SEM, TEM, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and vibrating‐sample magnetometer techniques. Fe3O4/PDA/CdS was found to be a highly active photocatalyst for the amidation of aromatic aldehydes by using air as a clean oxidant under mild conditions. The photocatalyst can be recovered by magnetic separation and successfully reused for five cycles without considerable loss of its catalytic activity.
Rhodium(II)‐Catalyzed [4+3] Cyclization of Triazoles with Indole Derivatives and Its Application in the Total Synthesis of (±)‐Aurantioclavine
Authors: Duan Shengguo , Xue Bing , Meng Hui , Ye Zihang , Xu Ze‐Feng , Li Chuan‐Ying
Published: January 2021

Main observation and conclusion

An efficient rhodium(II)‐catalyzed [4+3] cyclization reaction of 1‐sulfonyl‐1,2‐3‐triazoles and indoles was developed. Azepino[5,4,3‐ cd]indoles, which are widely distributed in ergot alkaloids with various biological activities, could be obtained in good to excellent yields. In addition, the total synthesis of (±)‐aurantioclavine was completed in four steps from the known compound 1a adopting this [4+3] cyclization as a key step.
Importance of temperature in evaluating cotton for resistance to Fusarium wilt caused byFusarium oxysporumf. sp.vasinfectumrace 4
Authors: Zhang Jinfa , Abdelraheem Abdelraheem , Zhu Yi , Wheeler Terry A. , Dever Jane K. , Nichols Robert , Wedegaertner Tom
Published: January 2021

Fusarium wilt of cotton (Gossypiumspp.) is caused by a soil‐ and seed‐borne fungal pathogenFusarium oxysporumf. sp.vasinfectum(FOV).Fusarium oxysporumf. sp.vasinfectumrace 4 (FOV4) is a significant threat to cotton production in the United States. The effect of temperature and soil on disease symptoms in cultivars with a range of susceptibility to FOV4 was examined in growth chamber trials. Three upland (G. hirsutumL.) and three pima (G. barbadenseL.) cultivars were planted in three types of soils (potting mix and farm soils with and without FOV4 preinfestation) and maintained at four constant temperature regimes (20, 23, 26, and 29 °C). After seedling emergence, each pot was inoculated with conidial suspensions of FOV4 and scored for resistance based on disease incidence (DI), foliar disease severity rating (DSR), and mortality rate (MR) at 7, 14, 21, and 28 d post‐inoculation (dpi). The area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) based on DSR across the four evaluation dpi was also analyzed. Among the six cultivars tested, Pima PHY 841 RF, Pima S‐6, and the uplands Acala 1517‐08 and FM 2334GLT were the most resistant, whereas upland PHY 725 RF and Pima S‐7 were the most susceptible. The genotypic responses to FOV4 were not significantly (P > .05) affected by differences in temperature regime or soil type. Cotton seedlings manifested more severe symptoms and higher mortality when maintained at 23 °C, followed by 20/26 °C and 29 °C in descending order. The mycelial growth rate was greater at 23/26 °C, whereas plants grew slower at 20/23 °C. There were no differences (P > .05) in DI, DSR, MR, and AUDPC between the inoculated farm soil (with no FOV4 preinfestation) and the inoculated FOV4‐preinfested farm soil, suggesting the unnecessity of using the latter in artificial inoculations. However, the potting soil produced higher (P < .05) DI and DSR at 7 and 14 dpi but lower (P < .05) AUDPC. This growth chamber study demonstrated that 23 °C produced the highest DI, severity, and plant death, providing an important piece of information for screening cotton for FOV4 resistance in breeding and FOV4 disease management in cotton production.
Exploring valence bias as a metric for frontoamygdalar connectivity and depressive symptoms in childhood
Authors: Petro Nathan M. , Tottenham Nim , Neta Maital
Published: January 2021

Negativity bias is a core feature of depression that is associated with dysfunctional frontoamygdalar connectivity; this pathway is associated with emotion regulation and sensitive to neurobiological change during puberty. We used a valence bias task (ratings of emotional ambiguity) as a potential early indicator of depression risk and differences in frontoamygdalar connectivity. Previous work using this task demonstrated that children normatively have a negative bias that attenuates with maturation. Here, we test the hypothesis that persistence of this negativity bias as maturation ensues may reveal differences in emotion regulation development, and may be associated with increased risk for depression. In children aged 6–13 years, we tested the moderating role of puberty on relationships between valence bias, depressive symptoms, and frontoamygdalar connectivity. A negative bias was associated with increased depressive symptoms for those at more advanced pubertal stages (within this sample) and less regulatory frontoamygdalar connectivity, whereas a more positive bias was associated with more regulatory connectivity patterns. These data suggest that with maturation, individual differences in positivity biases and associated emotion regulation circuitry confer a differential risk for depression. Longitudinal work is necessary to determine the directionality of these effects and explore the influence of early life events.
Spatial genetic structure and landscape connectivity in black bears: Investigating the significance of using different land cover datasets and classifications in landscape genetics analyses
Authors: Draheim Hope M. , Moore Jennifer A. , Winterstein Scott R. , Scribner Kim T.
Published: January 2021

Landscape genetic analyses allow detection of fine‐scale spatial genetic structure (SGS) and quantification of effects of landscape features on gene flow and connectivity. Typically, analyses require generation of resistance surfaces. These surfaces characteristically take the form of a grid with cells that are coded to represent the degree to which landscape or environmental features promote or inhibit animal movement. How accurately resistance surfaces predict association between the landscape and movement is determined in large part by (a) the landscape features used, (b) the resistance values assigned to features, and (c) how accurately resistance surfaces represent landscape permeability. Our objective was to evaluate the performance of resistance surfaces generated using two publicly available land cover datasets that varied in how accurately they represent the actual landscape. We genotyped 365 individuals from a large black bear population (Ursus americanus) in the Northern Lower Peninsula (NLP) of Michigan, USA at 12 microsatellite loci, and evaluated the relationship between gene flow and landscape features using two different land cover datasets. We investigated the relative importance of land cover classification and accuracy on landscape resistance model performance. We detected local spatial genetic structure in Michigan's NLP black bears and found roads and land cover were significantly correlated with genetic distance. We observed similarities in model performance when different land cover datasets were used despite 21% dissimilarity in classification between the two land cover datasets. However, we did find the performance of land cover models to predict genetic distance was dependent on the way the land cover was defined. Models in which land cover was finely defined (i.e., eight land cover classes) outperformed models where land cover was defined more coarsely (i.e., habitat/non‐habitat or forest/non‐forest). Our results show that landscape genetic researchers should carefully consider how land cover classification changes inference in landscape genetic studies.