bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing self-efficacy, mattering, and general well-being through community-based education in the rural area
Authors: Aziz Abdul , Padil Mohammad , Mujtahid Mujtahid , Prihadi Kususanto Ditto
Published: March 2022

This qualitative study aimed to explore the implementation of community-based education (CBE) in the village of Desa Karang Pandan, Malang, East Java, Indonesia. The CBE was conducted in order to educate the community members in information technology, Arabic language, Quran reading, Boyscout activities, and indigenous martial arts. Apart from that, the CBE was implemented to address specific communal issues, such as lack of self-efficacy, sense of mattering, and general well-being of the community members. Data was collected through observations and interviews along the CBE program, and analyzed by utilizing thematic analysis methods. Positive responses were shown in the interview results. They were represented by the frequent occurrences of themes such as improvement of mattering and self-efficacy, higher motivation to learn and the development of general well-being. Nevertheless, it is possible that the positive responses from the community members were caused by the novelty effect of the program. Further concerns and limitations are discussed in the end of this paper.
Higher order thinking skills, school-based assessment and students’ mathematics achievement: Understanding teachers’ thoughts
Authors: Azid Nurulwahida , Ali Ruzlan Md. , El Khuluqo Ihsana , Purwanto Sigid Edy , Susanti Eka Nana
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of incorporating higher order thinking skills (HOTS) in a school-based assessment (SBA) on mathematics achievement among students. A mixed-method case study design was used to assess a sample size of 158 students and three mathematics teachers. The students’ proficiency in mathematics was determined by using the standard based curriculum for secondary schools (kurikulum standard sekolah menengah/KSSM). Mathematics assessment paper that was assiduously organized by incorporating HOTS questions. The students’ thoughts on the incorporation of HOTS in the SBA were obtained through one-to-one face-to-face semi-structured interviews. The quantitative findings, which were analyzed using descriptive and regression tests, showed that 11.9% of the achieved mathematics score was contributed by incorporating HOTS in SBA, while 7.7% was contributed by SBA mastery level in mathematics. Students’ maturity and misconceptions about math are among the challenges in implementing HOTS in SBA. The challenges in applying HOTS in SBA had a positive effect on teachers’ pedagogical approach in a sense that they could devise a new strategy for meeting the needs of students and teach topics in alternative ways.
Income generating activity in higher education: A case study of a public university in Indonesia
Authors: Mahmud Amir , Nuryatin Agus , Susilowati Nurdian
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to identify the income-generating activities and explore its management model using the case study method. In-depth interviews and documentation were used to collect data. The sample used purposive sampling from 26 study programs. Government subsidy, which is meant to cater to tuition and operational expenses, has been inadequate. Therefore, activities in the laboratory can be optimized as an income generator. The results of mapping activities in the laboratory and study programs are seminars, conferences, workshops, building rent, ballroom rent, laboratory services, vehicle rent, and scientific consulting services. Income-generating supplemented the budget of the university. The income is beneficial to hire additional project personnel, purchase supplies, materials and equipment, and improve facilities needed for instruction, research, extension, training, and productive activities. The development pattern of income-generating management through partnership and cooperation between the rector, head of the business development agency, deans, and head of a study program also laboratory so that all forms of activities that become financial sources can be monitored and evaluated. Moreover, the preparation of the accountability report must be transparent and accountable.
Integration of STEM education in history learning
Authors: Pratama Rinaldo Adi , Pratiwi Inne Marthyane , Saputra Muhammad Adi , Sumargono Sumargono
Published: March 2022

The 21st century needs pupils with learning ability and necessary skills, particularly critical thinking skills instead of content focused. The study of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education approach can lead teachers to a new teaching approach in history learning. Through this approach, the teachers can create a new way of teaching history integrated with STEM. This study used a qualitative approach. Data collection in this research using pupil’s work samples, interview, and the teacher journal. This research was conducted in two high school and two vocational school in the urban area. The findings showed that the teachers integrated one of the historical thinking skills and understanding history. The skills are still in the lower level of historical thinking skills. For historical teaching skills to be effectively integrated in history learning, teachers need to be trained so the pupil's historical thinking skills can be enhanced through the integrated history learning with the STEM approach.
The correlation of the understanding of Indonesian history, multiculturalism, and historical awareness to students’ nationalistic attitudes
Authors: Basri Muhammad , Setiawan Johan , Insani Marzius , Fadli Muhammad Rijal , Amboro Kian , Kuswono Kuswono
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to analyze the relationship between understanding Indonesian history, multiculturalism, and historical awareness with the nationalist attitudes of state high school students in Yogyakarta. This type of research was correlational research with a quantitative approach. The sample consisted of 126 students. Data collection used tests and questionnaires. The test was used to reveal data about understanding of Indonesian history and multiculturalism, while the questionnaire was used for revealing students’ historical awareness and nationalistic attitudes. The validity of the instrument used a biserial point correlation test and a reliability test with the KR-20 formula. The data then were analyzed by using quantitative descriptive analysis technique. The pre-requisite analysis consisted of the normality test, linearity test and multicollinearity test. The hypothesis testing used Product Moment Correlation, multiple correlation, relative contribution, and effective contribution. The results showed that there is a positive and significant relationship between understanding of Indonesian history, multiculturalism, and historical awareness with students' nationalism. History learning will be much more meaningful if these four concepts are used as the objectives of history learning.
Evaluating the research productivity of a state university in Central Luzon, Philippines: Basis for policy recommendations
Authors: Rogayan Jr. Danilo V. , Corpuz Luz N.
Published: March 2022

This descriptive study evaluated the research productivity of a state university in Central Luzon, Philippines, for the past five years (2016-2020) as basis for policy formulation. The study used document analysis to ascertain the research productivity in terms of: i) Number of papers published in refereed international journals such as Scopus and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) accredited journals; ii) Number of faculty researchers with publication to these journals; and iii) Total number of citations. The data were obtained primarily from online publications found in the Google Scholar and Scopus databases. Results revealed that the state university's research productivity is relatively high in terms of published papers in refereed international journals for the past five years. However, the published papers in Scopus-indexed journals and CHED accredited journals are relatively low. An average number of faculty researchers publish their works in reputable journals, but very few faculties publish in the journals recommended by the CHED. Likewise, the university had a remarkable research citation record for the past five years. The findings of this research have important implications for policy to improve research productivity and enhance the research culture in higher education institutions (HEIs). Such policies include the need to have strong support to faculty researchers, forge research collaborations, source external research funding, and establish a sound incentive mechanism.
The effectiveness of blended learning with combined synchronized and unsynchronized settings on self-efficacy and learning achievement
Authors: Budhyani I Dewa Ayu Made , Candiasa Made , Sutajaya Made , Nitiasih Putu Kerti
Published: March 2022

This study analyzed the effect of blended learning with combined synchronized and unsynchronized settings on self-efficacy and achievement of the students in learning basic design. The population was 145 students of vocational schools (sekolah menengah kejuruan/SMK) who learned basic design. The schools were selected through multistage random sampling which selected four schools with 115 students. The data for self-efficacy were collected with a questionnaire and those for learning achievement with a multiple-choice test. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistical test and inferential statistical test of multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). The study found that blended learning with combined synchronized and unsynchronized settings has a positive effect on the students’ self-efficacy and learning achievement in basic design, thus making the learning more joyful and more conducive.
Exploring teacher effects on intensifying and minimizing mathematics anxiety among students in Sokoto State, Nigeria
Authors: Ismail Norulhuda , Garba Aliyu , Osman Sharifah , Ibrahim Nor Hasniza , Bunyamin Muhammad Abd Hadi
Published: March 2022

Mathematics anxiety is the feeling of tension and fear which interferes with the manipulation of numbers in ordinary life and academic setting. This study aimed at exploring students’ level of mathematics anxiety and teacher behavior and speech which intensifies and minimizes mathematics anxiety among secondary schools in Sokoto state, Nigeria. In total, 109 questionnaires regarding mathematics anxiety named the cognitive, emotion, physical-mathematics anxiety rating (CEP-MAR) were distributed to students and 102 were returned. From the responses in the questionnaire, 20 of the most mathematics anxious individuals were selected to participate in a photovoice project. These 20 students were given cameras and asked to capture classroom events, which impact on their mathematics anxiety. Afterwards, a one-to-one semi-structured interview was conducted with each student to discuss the photos. The findings disclosed that teachers’ behavior and speech such as being too quick in mathematics classroom lessons, giving too many notes, exercises, punishments and embarrassing/alarming statements have a significant effect in intensifying mathematics anxiety. The findings also showcased that quiz/competitions, good learning environment, intrinsic and extrinsic motivational statements help in minimizing mathematics anxiety. This study provides further evidence that teachers have both positive and negative effect on students’ mathematics anxiety.
ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE SERVICES AMONG SYRIAN REFUGEES IN TURKEY
Authors: OZEN Ilhan Can , TUNCAY ALPANDA Berna
Published: March 2022

The Syrian population influx has dislocated a significant number of people (6.7 million of people outside the Syrian borders, 6.5 million of people among the different provinces of Syria). The biggest group among this moving population between borders has integrated into the Turkish society, and economy. From the macro and micro perspectives, the health system integration is significantly graded by the Syrian population. We will focus on the early age group, among the refugees, as their health vulnerabilities, and health improvements will create much larger effects throughout their lifetime. What we aim in this paper is to bring forward an objective micro-level outcome that will allow us to measure two things that was crucial in the life cycle of the refugee population: the war effect which will create a push factor for them to start moving, and an integration effect which will measure the time-continuous, and time-discrete increase in their health outcomes, as a result of relatively cost-free integration into a more developed health system. The Demographic Health Survey (DHS) 2018 data that we utilize gives us an empirical advantage for identification for two reasons; it differentiates the health outcome of children, in multi-child families depending on where they were born, which we will call an intra-Syrian effect, and it allows us to compare the situation of the Syrian children vis-a-vis the average child health outcomes in the society they are integrating into (what we call the inter-Syrian effect). The results suggest that Syrians remain underneath the Turkish average, for many early child development, and vital health access, however, after integration significant positive developments occur, in terms of compensating for the negative war effect, and in terms of the second effect (integration/adaptation effect) that they have started to converge to the Turkish average, as they have spent more years in Turkey.
A note on sex ratio, size at maturity, fecundity and breeding season of the portunid crab, Thranita crenata (Rüppell, 1830) from the Pakistani coast
Authors: Mustaquim Javed , Khatoon Sumaira , Rashid Shahnaz
Published: March 2022

Specimens of the portunid crab, Thranita crenata (Rüppell, 1830), commonly known as spiny rock crab or crenate swimming crab, were collected from Buleji rocky shore, in Karachi, during March 2015 to February 2016. The size (recorded as carapace width measured between the tips of the 5th spines) at which male and female crabs attain maturity was 42.6 mm and 42.4 mm CW, respectively. The smallest size of an ovigerous female crab was 38 mm CW. Although there were some more male crabs than female crabs in the samples, the male to female ratio was not significantly different from 11 (). Sex ratios in different size groups and different months were also found insignificantly different from a 11 ratio. Ovigerous females were found throughout the year, with a major peak in May and a minor peak in October when, respectively, 30.04% and 25.12% of the female crabs were ovigerous. The minimum and maximum fecundities recorded were 42 800 and 193 433 in females of 35 mm and 77 mm CW, respectively, and the average fecundity was 107 856 ± 50 331 over all berried females.
Moult cycle staging in decapod crustaceans (Pleocyemata) and the Australian crayfish, Cherax destructor Clark, 1936 (Decapoda, Parastacidae)
Authors: Gorissen Sarsha , Sandeman David
Published: March 2022

We tabulated decades of published moult stage criteria of Decapoda: Pleocyemata on setogenesis and changes in pleopods, uropods and gastroliths; and reviewed them focusing on the comparative biology of Cherax destructor. We found their staging criteria relatively consistent. For C. destructor, lacking were a comprehensive description with micrographs; a juvenile application; and, known stage duration. Therefore, we developed comprehensive moult staging techniques in juvenile C. destructor using pleopods, antennules and gastroliths. Using pleopod staging, we found C. destructor exhibits anecdysis as a true transition stage (D0), which occupied around half the moult cycle. We successfully applied this method to juvenile and adult marbled crayfish. We report on these suggested novel techniques: moult staging using pleopods: novel in crayfish; moult staging using antennules: novel in decapods; moult staging using gastrolith deposition: novel in C. destructor; and, calculating the gastrolith moult mineralization index using height: novel in decapods.
Multigene phylogeny reveals the ribbed shell morphotypes in the land snail genus Sarika (Eupulmonata: Ariophantidae), with description of two new species from Thailand and Myanmar
Authors: Pholyotha Arthit , Sutcharit Chirasak , Lin Aung , Panha Somsak
Published: March 2022

The speciose land snail genus Sarika is widely distributed throughout mainland Southeast Asia. This genus is generally recognized by a smooth and polished shell. However, we recognize four species with a ribbed shell surface (S. siamensis, S. theodori, S. costabilis sp. nov., and S. costata sp. nov.) exhibiting genital characters similar to those of Sarika s.s. and so a rearrangement in the systematics of the genus is suggested. Here, we analysed these four ribbed shell species together with Sarika s.s. by a combined morphological and molecular approach to species delineation, the latter based on both mitochondrial (coi and 16S) and nuclear (28S) markers. Our molecular phylogeny affirms the monophyly of the genus Sarika including both smooth and ribbed shell morphotypes that is statistically well supported. The ribbed shell morphotype in the land snail genus Sarika is also well defined in terms of diagnostic morpho-anatomical characters that can be divided into two species groups. The S. costata species group consists of only one species, S. costata sp. nov., while the S. siamensis species group comprises S. siamensis, S. theodori and S. costabilis sp. nov. These findings provide a solid basis for the systematics of family Ariophantidae.
Begonia normaaguilariae (section Baryandra, Begoniaceae), a new species from the limestone forests of Samar Island, Philippines
Authors: DELOS ANGELES MARJORIE D. , RUBITE ROSARIO R. , CHUNG KUO-FANG , BUOT JR. INOCENCIO E. , TANDANG DANILO N.
Published: March 2022

Begonia normaaguilariae, a new Philippine Begonia species from the section Baryandra is described and illustrated herewith. It bears a superficial resemblance to B. biliranensis with a repand leaf margin, and obovoid anther shape. However, the new species is unique in reference to its conduplicate stipule, longer capsule pedicel length, and completely glabrous rhizome, petioles, and leaves. Begonia normaaguilariae was only recorded from the limestone forests of Samar Island Natural Park, Samar Island, Philippines. Following the Red List criteria of the IUCN Standards and Petitions Subcommittee, B. normaaguilariae is hereby proposed as Critically Endangered.
A review of the flying fish genus Cypselurus (Beloniformes: Exocoetidae). Part 2. Revision of the subgenus Poecilocypselurus Bruun, 1935 with descriptions of three new species and five new subspecies and reinstatement of Exocoetus apus Valenciennes and E. neglectus Bleeker
Authors: SHAKHOVSKOY ILIA B. , PARIN NIKOLAY V.
Published: March 2022

The second part of the review of flying fishes of the genus Cypselurus Swainson, 1838 covers the following: C. oligolepis (Bleeker, 1865) is a composite of six different species: C. oligolepis, C. izumii sp. nov., C. clariangulatus sp. nov., C. neglectus (Bleeker, 1865), C. nossibe sp. nov. (here placed in the subgenus Cypselurus s.str.) and Cypselurus sp.. Two of these species were found to be polytypic: C. oligolepis (with subspecies C. o. oligolepis, C. o. apus (Valenciennes, 1847), C. o. persicus subsp. nov. and C. o. georgii subsp. nov.) and C. neglectus (with subspecies C. n. neglectus and C. n. shcherbachevi subsp. nov.). Cypselurus poecilopterus (Valenciennes, 1847) is also polytypic and is divided into three subspecies: C. p. poecilopterus, C. p. arabicus subsp. nov. and C. p. crassus subsp. nov. Exocoetus apus Valenciennes (as a subspecies) and E. neglectus Bleeker are reinstated as valid. The morphology of C. starksi Abe, 1953, C. oligolepis, C. izumii, C. clariangulatus, C. neglectus and C. nossibe at different stages of ontogeny is described and maps of their geographical distribution provided. Lists of synonymy and bibliography for these species and C. poecilopterus, C. simus (Valenciennes, 1847) and C. callopterus (Günther, 1866) are compiled. A key for identification of species and subspecies of the subgenus Poecilocypselurus Bruun, 1935 and C. nossibe is provided.
Analysis of the Magnetic Signature of Surface Waves Measured in a Laboratory Experiment
Authors: Kluge John A. , Soloviev Alexander V. , Dean Cayla W. , Morrison Geoffrey K. , Haus Brian K.
Published: March 2022

A magnetic signature is created by secondary magnetic field fluctuations caused by the phenomenon of seawater moving in Earth’s magnetic field. A laboratory experiment was conducted at the Surge Structure Atmosphere Interaction (SUSTAIN) facility to measure the magnetic signature of surface waves using a differential method: a pair of magnetometers, separated horizontally by one-half wavelength, were placed at several locations on the outer tank walls. This technique significantly reduced the extraneous magnetic distortions that were detected simultaneously by both sensors and additionally doubled the magnetic signal of surface waves. Accelerometer measurements and local gradients were used to identify magnetic noise produced from tank vibrations. Wave parameters of 4-m-long waves with a 0.56-Hz frequency and a 0.1-m amplitude were used in this experiment. Freshwater and saltwater experiments were completed to determine the magnetic difference generated by the difference in conductivity. Tests with an empty tank were conducted to identify the noise of the facility. When the magnetic signal was put through spectral analysis, it showed the primary peak at the wave frequency (0.56 Hz) and less pronounced higher-frequency harmonics, which are caused by the nonlinearity of shallow water surface waves. The magnetic noise induced by the wavemaker and related vibrations peaked around 0.3 Hz, which was removed using filtering techniques. These results indicate that the magnetic signature produced by surface waves was an order of magnitude larger than in traditional model predictions. The discrepancy may be due to the magnetic permeability difference between water and air that is not considered in the traditional model.
Spectral Characteristics of Swell-Dominated Seas with In Situ Measurements in the Coastal Seas of Peru and Sri Lanka
Authors: Gao Xiang , Ma Xiaozhou , Ma Yuxiang , Huang Xuezhi , Zheng Zhenjun , Dong Guohai
Published: March 2022

The characteristics of wave spectra in the swell-dominated seas in the Chancay Bay, Peru, and off the coast of Hambantota, Sri Lanka, were studied based on in situ measurements. According to the characteristics of the spectral shapes, the measured wave spectra were divided into single- and double-peaked spectra. For the single-peaked measured spectra, many widely used wave spectrum models were adopted to fit the measured wave spectra. By comparing the fitting results with the measured wave spectra, these wave spectra were insufficient for describing the peak enhancement or the high-frequency tail shape of the measured spectra. The spectral shape parameters were found to play an important role in the expression of the spectrum models. The peak enhancement factor γ in the Joint North Sea Wave Project (JONSWAP) spectra could adjust the peak height of the spectrum and the shape parameter m of the spectrum high-frequency tail in the Wallops spectra made the wave spectrum more flexible. Therefore, an improved single-peaked wave spectrum was proposed by combining the JONSWAP and Wallops spectra. It performed better than other spectrum models in describing the swell and has advantages in both the wave characteristic parameters and wave spectral shapes. The spectrum peak width parameter σ was relatively consistent in the two measurement stations and both around 0.24. Moreover, the proposed model overcame the limitations of the excessively high estimated slope in the high-frequency range of the Wallops spectrum; the shape parameter m of the spectrum high-frequency tail is primarily distributed in the range (1, 5). For the double-peaked measured spectra, the Ochi–Hubble spectrum was found to work better than the Torsethaugen spectrum.
A Comparison of Mesoscale Pressure Features Observed with Smartphones and Conventional Observations
Authors: McNicholas Callie , Mass Clifford F.
Published: March 2022

To examine the utility of smartphone pressure observations (SPOs), a climatology of mesoscale pressure features was developed to evaluate whether SPOs could better resolve mesoscale phenomena than existing surface pressure networks (MADIS). A comparison between MADIS and smartphone pressure analyses was performed by tracking and characterizing bandpass-filtered, mesoscale pressure features. Over the year 2018, nearly 3000 pressure features were tracked across the central and eastern United States. Pressure features identified by smartphone observations lasted, on average, 25 min longer, traveled 25 km farther, and exhibited larger amplitudes than features observed by MADIS. An examination of smartphone pressure features tracks by season and location found that almost all pressure features propagated eastward. With over 87% of observed pressure features associated with convection, the climatology of surface pressure features largely reflects the geographic and seasonal variation of mesoscale convection. Phase relationships between pressure features and other surface variables were consistent with those expected for mesohighs and wake lows. These results suggest that SPOs could enhance convective analyses and forecasts compared to existing surface networks like MADIS by better resolving mesoscale structures and features, such as wake lows and mesohighs.

Significance Statement

While smartphone pressure networks provide unprecedented observation coverage and density, it was unclear whether they can add value to existing surface pressure networks. This study addresses this question by developing a yearlong record of mesoscale pressure features over the eastern and central United States. Analysis of this record revealed that smartphone analyses better resolved mesoscale pressure features, especially across the central United States where existing surface pressure networks are sparser. Nearly all observed pressure features were observed near precipitation, with five in six associated with convection. Relationships between mesoscale pressure features and other surface state variables were consistent with those expected for mesohighs and wake lows.
Red, White, and Blue: Environmental Distress among Water Stakeholders in a U.S. Farming Community
Authors: du Bray Margaret V. , Quimby Barbara , Bausch Julia C. , Wutich Amber , Eaton Weston M. , Brasier Kathryn J. , Brewis Alexandra , Williams Clinton
Published: March 2022

This paper explores environmental distress (e.g., feeling blue) in a politically conservative (“red”) and predominantly white farming community in the southwestern United States. In such communities across the United States, expressed concern over environmental change—including climate change—tends to be lower. This is understood to have a palliative effect that reduces feelings of ecoanxiety. Using an emotional geographies framework, our study identifies the forms of everyday emotional expressions related to water and environmental change in the context of a vulnerable rural agricultural community in central Arizona. Drawing on long-term participant-observation and stakeholder research, we use data from individual (n = 48) and group (n = 8) interviews with water stakeholders to explore reports of sadness and fear over environmental change using an emotion-focused text analysis. We find that this distress is related to social and material changes related to environmental change rather than to environmental change itself. We discuss implications for research on emotional geographies for understanding reactions to environmental change and uncertainty.
Bakhtin’s Carnivalesque: A Reconsideration Based on the BLM Demonstrations of 2020 and the Storming of the U.S. Capitol in 2021
Authors: Sheckels Theodore
Published: March 2022

The theoretical insights of Mikhail Bakhtin offer the rhetorical critic of demonstrations and the social movements they are often a part of a useful analytical tool. Bakhtin’s focus on polyphony, particularly the type he termed “passive varidirectional” in his study of Dostoevsky, dovetails with his exploration of the “carnivalesque” as a popular culture and literary mode to offer a subversive rhetoric intended to undermine hegemony. Extant studies of Bakhtin by rhetoricians have bogged down in trying to make sense of his “messy” canon and, perhaps as a result, inadequately understood this subversive rhetoric. After offering an overall reading of Bakhtin and a sense of how the concept of “carnivalesque” has been used by critics, this essay will enrich that concept by applying it to the events of 2020 and 2021 and arguing that, to grasp the critical tool Bakhtin has offered critics, one must recognize (1) its political neutrality, (2) the possible varieties of “ carnivalesque,” (3) the place of violence in the “carnivalesque,” and (4) the new and subtle ways the body plays a rhetorical role in it. The events of 2020–2021 enable the critic to acquire a more nuanced understanding of Bakhtin’s rhetorical insights.
Safe and Appropriate Minimally Invasive and Robotic Esophagectomy in a Community Cancer Center
Authors: Johnson Christopher , Tabor John , Bates Michael , Lyons John
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Minimally invasive esophagectomy is a technically challenging procedure that been associated with better outcomes at high-volume tertiary care centers. Louisiana is one of the most impoverished states, and travel to a “destination center” is not an option for many patients. We hypothesize that patients can obtain excellent surgical outcomes following MIE in a comprehensive community cancer center.

Methods

We identified all patients who underwent totally robotic MIE by a single surgeon at our center from July 2018 to November 2020. All cases were performed using totally robotic Ivor Lewis technique with intrathoracic isoperistaltic esophagogastrostomy. Incidence, demographics, treatment, and outcomes were compared before and after first 10 cases using Student’s t-test.

Results

We identified 21 patients: 16 male and 5 female. Mean age 65 (49-85). 19 patients underwent MIE for malignancy; 18 of these received neoadjuvant therapy. OR time decreased following the first 10 cases (502 vs. 408 minutes, P = 0.0127). Average lymph node harvest was 14 (4-23 nodes). Positive margin rate was 0%. Mean length of stay trended towards a decrease after the first 10 cases (11 vs. 9 days, P = NS). There were no leaks or strictures. Thirty-day readmission was five patients. Ninety-day mortality was 0%.

Conclusion

These outcomes rival those of high-volume referral centers and demonstrate that totally robotic MIE can be performed with excellent outcomes in community center. These data call into question the need for all patients to travel to “destination centers” to receive complex oncologic surgery.
Managing Increased Cognitive Load in a Guided Search
Authors: Turcotte Josée , Oddson Bruce
Published: March 2022

In the Sternberg item recognition task and its variants, an individual’s mean reaction time increases with the number of items to be retained in the memory set. An increase in reaction time has also been seen when a secondary task was added. The usual interpretation for this increased reaction time is that adding cognitive load makes tasks more difficult. In a series of three experiments, we manipulated cognitive load through increases in the memory set or through a second task. In each experiment, high cognitive load was associated with higher mean response times but a reduced slope, based on the target position in a series of probes. Thus, in a Sternberg task with multiple word targets and multiple word probes, participants searched more efficiently per probe under high load than under low load. This pattern was replicated with the addition of a working memory task requiring participants to calculate a cumulative price based on the price per target word item. By considering both initial response times and reaction time slopes in large memory sets, this study provides a challenge to the traditional interpretation of cognitive load effects on search performance.
Dead or Alive? Odishan and Appalachian Mountains as Partners in Activism
Authors: Pandey Annapurna Devi , Kingsolver Ann E.
Published: March 2022

Mountains may be simultaneously viewed through multiple logics—sacred or secular, dead property to be commodified or living and powerful community members, for example—unless and until one of those logics is used to destroy them. We compare the way these logics figure in environmental justice movements in Odisha, India and the Appalachian region of the United States. In the first example, mountains—considered sacred and alive—have served as partners in a successful movement by Dongaria Kondh women in Odisha to stop the destruction of the Niyamgiri hills through aluminium mining. In the second example, while there are competing logics that include views of mountains as sacred in the United States, a capitalist logic through which mountains are considered dead and without a role in acting on their own future has prevailed in extensive coal mining through the destructive method of mountaintop removal.
Promoting Student Well-Being Through Classroom Interventions
Authors: Ibaraki Alicia
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Because of their regular contact with students, faculty can find themselves in the position of needing to support student’s emotional needs, a task for which not everyone feels well trained.

Statement of the Problem

COVID-19 has exacerbated existing mental health concerns and created additional problems related to low levels of motivation, increased loneliness, and heightened levels of stress.

Literature Review

Fortunately, psychological science can explain the causes of these symptoms as well as offer evidence-based interventions. The literature related to motivation, loneliness, and stress is reviewed with an emphasis placed on common studies or theories that are covered in typical psychology curriculums.

Teaching Implications

Evidence-based classroom interventions and assignments designed to promote student well-being are discussed.

Conclusion

Grounding discussions of student’s emotional reactions within the psychological literature may help instructors without a mental health background better support student’s emotional needs, illustrate course concepts, and model the practice of clinical science while helping to promote student well-being.
Does the Instructors Gender Identity and Syllabus Design Affect Students Perceptions of Their Instructor?
Authors: Fleck Bethany , Richmond Aaron S.
Published: March 2022

Background

Learner-centered syllabi influence students’ perceptions of their instructors; however, studies have not investigated the gender identity of the instructor.

Objective

We sought to investigate whether the gender of the instructor and the syllabus design affected students' perceptions of the instructor, course, and memory of the syllabus.

Method

Participants were randomly assigned to read either learner- or instructor-centered syllabi for a course taught by a male, female, or gender-neutral instructor. They reported their perceptions of the instructor (i.e., Teacher Behavior Checklist), how they perceived the syllabus (i.e., Syllabus Tone Survey), and their memory of syllabus information.

Results

Students who received a learner-centered syllabus perceived the instructor as possessing higher master teacher behaviors, positive tone and remembered more of the course syllabus. Students perceived gender-neutral instructors as more caring, supportive, professional, and communicative compared to male and female instructors. Perceptions of male instructors were the least negative, and female instructors were the least positive.

Conclusion

The current study adds to the growing body of research demonstrating that a learner-centered syllabus can positively influence students' perceptions of the instructor. The initial evidence suggests that gender may also have an effect.

Teaching Implications

Instructors should consider designing their syllabus using learner-centered principles and be cautious and aware of a potential gender bias.
Clinicopathological Predictors of Survival for Parotid Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cheng Emily YiQin , Kim Joo Hyun , Grose Elysia M. , Philteos Justine , Levin Marc , de Almeida John , Goldstein David
Published: March 2022

Objective

Various prognostic factors are associated with the survival of patients with parotid mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC). The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the clinical and pathologic prognostic factors on survival outcomes in patients with parotid MEC.

Data Sources

Articles published from database inception to July 2020 on OVID Medline, OVID Embase, Cochrane Central, and Scopus.

Review Methods

Studies were included that reported clinical or pathologic prognostic factors on survival outcomes for adult patients with parotid MEC. Data extraction, risk of bias, and quality assessment were conducted by 2 independent reviewers.

Results

A total of 4290 titles were reviewed, 396 retrieved for full‐text screening, and 18 included in the review. The average risk of bias was high, and quality assessment for the prognostic factors ranged from very low to moderate. Prognostic factors that were consistently associated with negative survival outcomes on multivariate analysis included histologic grade (hazard ratio [HR], 5.66), nodal status (HR, 2.86), distant metastasis (HR, 3.10‐5.80), intraparotid metastasis (HR, 13.52), and age (HR, 1.02‐6.86). Prognostic factors that inconsistently reported associations with survival outcomes were TNM stage, T classification, and N classification.

Conclusion

Histologic grade, nodal status, distant metastasis, intraparotid metastasis, and age were associated with worse survival outcomes. These prognostic factors should be considered when determining the most appropriate treatment and follow‐up plan for patients with parotid MEC.
Evaluation of Agreement Among Frailty Assessment Tools in Head and Neck Surgery
Authors: Pandey Yash , Pandey Brianna , Aurit Sarah J. , Militsakh Oleg , Lydiatt William , Lydiatt Daniel , Coughlin Andrew , Lindau Robert , Osmolak Angela , Panwar Aru
Published: March 2022

Objective

To evaluate intertest agreement among hand grip strength (HGS), the modified Frailty Index (mFI), and the Edmonton Frail Scale (EFS) in patients presenting for presurgical assessment in a head and neck surgery clinic.

Study Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

Academic tertiary medical center.

Methods

Prospective data relating to 3 frailty measurements were collected for 96 consecutive adults presenting for presurgical counseling at a single high‐volume head and neck surgical oncology clinic. Frailty was determined with previously validated thresholds for the mFI (≥3) and EFS (>7). The highest of 2 HGS measurements performed for the dominant hand was used to determine frail status based on previously validated sex‐ and body mass index–specific thresholds. Baseline characteristics were identified to determine the association of such variables to each tool. Agreement among frailty assessment tools was examined.

Results

The frequency of frailty in the cohort varied among tools, ranging from 29.2% (28/96) for HGS to 12.5% (12/96) for the mFI and 4.2% (4/96) for the EFS. The overall agreement among the 3 frailty tools via the Fleiss index was poor (kappa, 0.088; 95% CI, –0.028 to 0.203).

Conclusion

Assessment of frailty is complex, and established frailty assessment tools may not agree on which patients are frail. When assessing a patient as frail, clinicians must be vigilant to the influence of frailty assessment tools on such determinations, which may contribute critical input during shared decision making for patients considering head and neck surgery or nonsurgical alternatives.
Quality of Life in Patients With Recurrent and Second Primary Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Ramprasad Vaibhav H. , Li Jinhong , Atchison Karley , Zandberg Dan P. , Clump David A. , Johnson Jonas T. , Nilsen Marci L.
Published: March 2022

Objective

In the setting of similar outcomes, quality of life (QOL) measures can be utilized to compare treatment modalities in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We evaluate QOL and symptoms in patients treated for primary, second primary, and recurrent HNSCC.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Head and neck cancer survivorship clinic.

Methods

We identified patients seen between 2016 and 2019. QOL and symptoms were assessed with the University of Washington Quality of Life (UW‐QOL) questionnaire, 10‐item Eating Assessment Tool, 8‐item Patient Health Questionnaire, 7‐item Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Neck Disability Index. Regression analysis was utilized to explore associations and compare QOL outcomes.

Results

Our cohort comprised 662 patients: 546 with primary HNSCC, 34 with second primary HNSCC, and 82 with recurrent HNSCC. Multimodality therapy was associated with lower UW‐QOL Physical Subscale (UW‐QOL‐PS) vs single modality: chemoradiation therapy (−12.17 [95% CI, −16.57 to −7.78]) and surgery + postadjuvant treatment (−12.11 [−16.06 to −8.16]). Multimodality therapy was also associated with lower UW‐QOL Social‐Emotional Subscale (UW‐QOL‐SS): chemoradiation therapy (−6.70 [−11.41 to −1.99]) and surgery + postadjuvant treatment (−7.41 [−11.63 to −3.19]). Recurrence (−14.42 [−18.80 to −10.04]) and second primary (−11.15 [−17.71 to −4.59]) demonstrated lower UW‐QOL‐PS vs primary. Radiation for recurrence or second primary had worse UW‐QOL‐PS (−10.43 [−19.27 to −1.59]) and UW‐QOL‐SS (−10.58 [−18.76 to −1.54]) and higher Eating Assessment Tool (6.08 [1.39‐10.77]) than surgery alone. Surgery + postadjuvant treatment showed worse UW‐QOL‐PS (−12.65 [−23.76 to −1.54]) and UW‐QOL‐SS (−12.20 [−22.38 to −2.03]).

Conclusion

Multimodality therapy, particularly with recurrent and second primary HNSCC, is more likely to contribute to diminished QOL and symptoms. This important consideration should play a role in framing informed discussions with patients regarding treatment.
Determination of the Microinjected Cytosolic Concentration by Using Mathematical Models of Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Rivas Manuel , Reina Manuel
Published: March 2022

The precise determination of the intracellular concentration of a drug is a major challenge in drug discovery. Microinjection is a very effective technique for the introduction of macromolecules into single cells. However, due to the large number of parameters that need to be adjusted and the complex physical mechanisms involved, there are currently no means by which the concentration of a microinjected intracellular compound could be theoretically estimated. In this paper, we present a method for the theoretical estimation of intracellular drug concentration, based on the framework of classical fluid mechanism theory — specifically, the modified Bernoulli equation. We introduce into Bernoulli’s classical equation the effect of friction due to the non-laminar regimes of the injected fluid. We also study the compatibility of our theoretical estimation model with variations in injection time and concentration of the compound inside the microinjection needle. Finally, microinjected calcium concentrations estimated with the theoretical model were compared with those determined experimentally in several cell types, by using a Fura-2-based Ca2+ imaging technique.
Prognostic value of 18F-FDG PET/CT in malignant pleural mesothelioma: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yu , Xu Yanfeng , Kan Ying , Wang Wei , Yang Jigang
Published: March 2022

Background

Several FDG PET/CT parameters have been utilized to evaluate the prognosis in malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). However, there are still controversial results due to the low incidence of MPM.

Purpose

To assess the prognostic value of 18F-FDG PET/CT in MPM.

Material and Methods

A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Medline, and The Cochrane Library to identify eligible studies from inception to 12 February 2020. The pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of several variables, such as maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), the reduction of SUVmax after treatment (ΔSUVmax), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG), and the reduction of TLG after treatment (ΔTLG), were calculated. Meta-regression with subsequent subgroup analyses were conducted to determine the heterogeneity of cutoff values, treatment regimen, study design, uptake time, and scanners across various studies.

Results

In total, 19 eligible studies including 1819 patients were enrolled in the meta-analysis. The univariate analysis showed that the pooled HRs (95% CI) of SUVmax, ΔSUVmax, MTV, TLG, and ΔTLG were 1.29 (1.16–1.42), 1.12 (1.05–1.19), 1.15 (1.00–1.33), 1.47 (1.23–1.76), and 1.27 (1.12–1.45), respectively. The multivariate analysis showed that the pooled HRs (95% CI) of SUVmax, ΔSUVmax, MTV, and TLG for overall survival (OS) were 1.20 (1.08–1.33), 1.10 (1.02–1.19), 0.95 (0.81–1.11), and 1.13 (1.08–1.18), respectively.

Conclusion

SUVmax, ΔSUVmax, TLG, and ΔTLG are significant prognostic indicators for OS, while more clinical studies are needed to confirm the prognostic value of MTV in MPM.
A new alternative technique for the guidance of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt creation using DSA overlay reference
Authors: Zhuang Zhiquan , Ma Jingqin , Ju Shuai , Gu Guoqiang , Zhang Wen , Yang Minjie , Zhang Zihan , Ma Li , Yan Zhiping , Luo Jianjun
Published: March 2022

Background

Portal vein puncture (PVP) is a critical step during transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) and correlates to several complications. Techniques guiding PVP are needed.

Purpose

To evaluate the safety, feasibility, and efficiency of digital subtraction angiography (DSA) overlay reference during TIPS creation and compare it with transhepatic portal vein (THPV) guiding.

Material and Methods

The clinical records of 185 patients at three medical centers who underwent TIPS placement were reviewed. Portal vein access was guided by THPV guiding in 120 cases and DSA overlay reference in 60 cases. The number of punctures, portal vein entry time, procedural adverse events, technical and hemodynamic success rate were analyzed to compare the safety, feasibility, and efficiency of the two methods.

Results

The median numbers of punctures in group 1 and group 2 were 2 (1–4) and 2 (1–5), respectively ( P = 0.094). There was no statistical difference between two groups in needle passes. The median portal vein entry time of group 1 was 12 min (8–16 min) and 13 min (8–16 min) in group 2. No significant difference was found in the PVP time ( P = 0.802). Arterioportal fistula formation occurred in 15 patients in group 1; two patients in group 2 had hepatic artery injury. The patients in group 2 had lower rates of procedural adverse events ( P = 0.047). Median dose area product of G1 was lower than G2 statistically ( P<0.001). There was no significant difference in total fluoroscopy time ( P = 0.856).

Conclusion

DSA overlay reference has lower procedural adverse events rates compared with THPV guiding TIPS. It seems to be a safe and effective method for guiding PVP.