bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Das Zeitalter der Künstlichen Intelligenz als Herausforderung für die Parlamente
Authors: Pilniok Arne
Published: April 2021

The digital transformation is permanently changing the government, administration, and society . This process is being intensified by the much-discussed technologies of artificial intelligence, and poses a variety of challenges for parliaments and indirectly for parliamen­tary studies . Their different dimensions have not been discussed comprehensively so far, although the technological developments affect all parliamentary functions and their prem­ises . This article systematizes and structures the various effects of the age of artificial intel­ligence on parliamentary democracy . Namely, the conditions of democratic representation change, the innovation-friendly regulation of digital technologies becomes a parliamentary task, parliamentary control has to be adjusted to the use of algorithms and artificial intelli­gence in government and administration, and possibly, the epistemological and organiza­tional structures of parliamentary work might have to be adapted . This provides starting points for future detailed analyses to adequately capture these processes of change and to accompany them from different disciplinary perspectives .
Erklärungsfaktoren kommunaler Wahlbeteiligung. Bürgermeister- und Ratswahlen im Vergleich
Authors: Holtkamp Lars , Garske Benjamin
Published: April 2021

Voter turnout in German local elections has only been partially examined in comparative analysis . Derived from the state of research, this analysis focuses-on the link between explanatory factors and voter turnout especially in city council and mayoral elections . The analysis shows that almost all of the hypotheses known from the literature are confirmed in city council elections nationwide . Next to hypotheses concerning socio-economic variables (unemployment rate, etc .), institutional factors have also proven to be equally explanatory in some cases . Primarily, when combining city council elections with higher level elections (e .g ., parliamentary elections), voter participation increases significantly . This has already been identified as central in the literature . Many of these hypotheses can be transferred to main elections and second (‘runoff’) ballots with largely verified causal links: Voter turnout increases significantly with the number of candidates . In contrast, a low voter turnout can be observed in re-elections . It should be noted that socio-economic factors have a stronger (statistical) link to voter turnout in second ballots than in main elections .
Regieren nach oder getrieben von Umfrageergebnissen? Wie Bundes- und Landtagsabgeordnete die mediale Umfrageberichterstattung wahrnehmen
Authors: Vögele Catharina , Ohliger Ursula Alexandra
Published: April 2021

This study analyzes how German political actors at the federal and state levels perceive the opportunities and risks of political poll reporting . A quantitative online survey of Members of the Bundestag and all German state parliaments shows that their perceptions are ambiva­lent: Although they all express great or very great interest in opinion polls, they have ambivalent views on how useful opinion research is for their political activities . With regard to the perceived benefit of poll reporting, the commissioning of opinion polls, and the desired frequency of media poll reporting, differences between the members of parliament surveyed are evident . When analyzing the internal and external use of the results of opinion polls our findings suggest that they are primarily used to strategically plan election cam­paigns and to identify popular topics . A large majority of members of parliament agree on the possible effects of poll reporting on voters . They view these effects predominantly criti­cally and are in favor of legal restrictions on publishing election polls .
Wer kandidiert für wen? Rekrutierungspotenziale politischer Parteien und kommunaler Wählergemeinschaften im Vergleich
Authors: Klein Markus , Springer Frederik , Becker Philipp , Lüdecke Yvonne
Published: April 2021

In Germany, there are an estimated 200,000 seats to be filled at the local level in city and municipal councils, city council assemblies, and district councils . It is of fundamental importance for the functioning of local democracy that a sufficient number of candidates can be found for these mandates . Against this background, the recruitment potential of political parties and municipal voters’ associations with regard to candidates for mandates at the local level is examined comparatively . The data basis is a representative population survey conducted as part of the 2017 German Party Membership Study . It is shown that a good quarter of the population can in principle be won over to a candidacy at the munici­pal level . Ten percent would only run for a party, six percent only for a municipal voters’ association and a further ten percent for both political groups . These three candidate poten­tials each have a specific profile regarding their socio-structural composition and their polit­ical attitudes .
Abstiegserfahrungen in der Kommune und der Aufstieg Unabhängiger Wählergemeinschaften. Neue Befunde aus einem Mehrebenen-Kommunalwahlpanel
Authors: Juen Christina-Marie , Tepe Markus , Jankowski Michael
Published: April 2021

In Germany, Independent Local Lists (UWG) have become an integral part of local politics in recent decades . Despite their growing political importance, the reasons for their electoral rise have hardly been researched . Recent studies argue that Independent Local Lists pursue anti-party positions, which makes them attractive to voters who are dissatisfied with the party system . Assuming that a decline of confidence in established parties corresponds with the experience of local deprivation, this contribution uses a multi-level panel data set to investigate how socio-economic (emigration, aging, declining tax revenue) and political­cultural (turnout, fragmentation) deprivation processes affect the electoral success of Inde­pendent Local Lists . The empirical findings suggest that Independent Local Lists are more successful in municipalities where voter turnout has fallen and political fragmentation has increased .
Digitalisierung und verletzliche Gruppen im Recht
Authors: Geminn Christian L.
Published: April 2021

The article deals with the question as to how the law addresses the special need for protection of children, adolescents and elderly people in light of the ongoing digital transformation of society. In doing so it will concentrate on the guarantee of self-determination through law. Children, adolescents and elderly people constitute the largest social group that are particularly vulnerable. The digitalization has ambiguous effects. It can reduce vulnerability but can also create new or emphasize existing ones.
Die erzwungene Digitalisierung: Daten und Deutungen
Authors: Hefendehl Roland , Bach Jakob
Published: April 2021

Der vorliegende Beitrag fußt auf zwei Befragungen zur corona-bedingten digitalen Lehre, die zu Beginn der Pandemie und am Ende des ersten digitalen Semesters an der Freiburger Juristischen Fakultät durchgeführt wurden. Er beschränkt sich allerdings nicht hierauf, sondern nimmt die Verheißungen des Digitalen auch in der Lehre besonders in den Blick. Inwieweit diese eingelöst wurden und welche Spezifika die essenziellen Kommunikationsprozesse in der digitalen Lehre aufweisen, soll geklärt werden. Wie sich die Lehre nach der Krise entwickeln wird, hängt nach Ansicht der Verfasser in erster Linie von der Einstellung der Lehrenden als den machtvollen Akteuren und weniger von Studierendenbefragungen ab.
Review of the species of Stenothemus from Southeast China (Coleoptera, Cantharidae)
Authors: Yang Yuxia , Ge Shujuan , Yang Xingke , Liu Haoyu
Published: April 2021

The species of Stenothemus Bourgeois, 1907 from Southeast China are reviewed. Stenothemus fukienensis Wittmer, 1974 and S. kuatunensis Wittmer, 1979 are supplementarily described. Two new species are described, S. longicornis Y. Yang & H. Liu sp. nov. (China: Guangdong) and S. flavus Y. Yang & X. Yang sp. nov. (China: Zhejiang). Five new combinations are established: S. biimpressiceps (Pic, 1930) comb. nov. (from Cantharis L.), S. chinensis (Wittmer, 1982) comb. nov., S. limbatipennis (Pic, 1926) stat. rev. et comb. nov., S. nigriceps (Wittmer, 1955) comb. nov. and S. pallicolor (Wittmer, 1951) comb. nov. (from Lycocerus Gorham). Leiothorax atrosanguineus Švihla, 2005 syn. nov. is synonymized with S. chinensis, Lycocerus limatus Kazantsev, 2007 syn. nov. with S. limbatipennis. The above species are illustrated with habitus photos, aedeagi, abdominal sternites VIII and internal genitalia of female. A key for the identification of the above species is provided.
Impacts of exchange rate and economic, political, cultural, infrastructural, and environmental indicators on tourism in Iran
Authors: Sarchami Ali , Zayandehrodi Mohsen , Jalaee Seyyed Abdulmajid
Published: April 2021

Known as the second most profitable industry worldwide, tourism is now very important to states and can have a prominent role in their economic growth. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the factors affecting tourism. In addition to the exchange rate, these factors include economic, political, cultural, infrastructural, and environmental indicators, all of which were analyzed in this study. For this purpose, a vector autoregressive (VAR) model was developed to analyze data of Iran from 1981 to 2018. According to the research findings, the exchange rate and economic, political, cultural, infrastructural, and environmental composite indicators had significant impacts on Iran’s tourism revenue.
Vers une meilleure compréhension du métier de conseiller pédagogique en mathématiques au primaire : une approche par le genre et les styles
Authors: Hanin Vanessa , Lajoie Caroline , Bednarz Nadine , Saboya Mireille , Bacon Lily
Published: April 2021

Cette recherche s’intéresse au métier de conseiller pédagogique (CP) en mathématiques dont les contours restent à ce jour peu explorés. Des entretiens ont été réalisés auprès de huit CPs en mathématiques au primaire, prenant appui sur deux situations professionnelles touchant à la résolution de problèmes en classe et à l’accompagnement des enseignants. Une analyse émergente a permis de mettre en lumière, de l’intérieur de leur pratique professionnelle, des éléments communs de leur activité, caractéristiques de ce que l’on peut appeler « un genre professionnel CP », ainsi que des formes singulières rendant compte des styles qu’ils développent selon les circonstances.
« Quand je sçauray parler Huron » : l’ambition linguistique des Jésuites
Authors: Vaillancourt Luc
Published: April 2021

Lorsqu’ils débarquent en Nouvelle-France, avec pour ambition de convertir les « sauvages », les missionnaires se heurtent d’emblée à l’altérité radicale des langues en usage à travers le territoire, mais ils ont tôt fait de remarquer la prédilection des Amérindiens pour la parole figurée, et ils en déduisent que, pour les rallier à leur foi, il faudra d’abord maîtriser leur langage. On pressent alors que l’entreprise de conversion ne dépend pas uniquement de l’apprentissage des langues, mais aussi, et peut-être surtout, de la capacité des Jésuites à assimiler les codes et les usages de l’éloquence autochtone. Or, ont-ils vraiment appris le huron ou l’ont-ils fantasmé ? Cet article s’emploie à identifier les facteurs de résistance qui ont réduit l’ambition linguistique des Jésuites à l’utopie.
Louis Simonin, ingénieur mineur et expert de la « race rouge »
Authors: Trucchio Aldo
Published: April 2021

Louis Laurent Simonin (1830-1886) est un ingénieur mineur marseillais connu aussi bien des scientifiques de son époque que du grand public grâce à ses récits de voyage et ses reportages sur les mines du monde entier. Il est également membre de la Société d’anthropologie de Paris et l’un de ses récits de voyage est cité par Louis Figuier, le vulgarisateur le plus lu de l’époque, dans le contexte d’une comparaison entre la « race rouge » et les hommes préhistoriques. L’analyse de ce passage sera l’occasion de repenser les sciences de l’homme au moment de leur constitution et, plus précisément, d’identifier le réseau de savoirs et de pouvoirs dans lequel le racisme et le colonialisme se montrent comme constitutifs du discours scientifique moderne sur l’homme.
Influence of conservation tillage on Greenhouse gas fluxes and crop productivity in spring-wheat agroecosystems on the Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Alhassan Abdul-Rauf Malimanga , Yang Chuanjie , Ma Weiwei , Li Guang
Published: April 2021

The effects of climate change such as dry spells, floods and erosion heavily impact agriculture especially smallholder systems on the Northwestern Loess Plateau of China. Nonetheless agriculture also contributes to global warming through the emission of greenhouse gases such as CO2, CH4and N2O. Yet this complex conundrum can be alleviated and mitigated through sound soil and water management practices. Despite considerable literature on Conservation Agriculture (CA) as a strategy to improve the resilience and mitigation capacity of agroecosystems, there is still paucity of information on the impacts of CA on crop production and environmental quality on the Plateau. In order to fill this gap this study examined the effects of no-till and straw mulch on crop productivity and greenhouse gas fluxes in agroecosystems on the Plateau where farmers’ common practice of conventional tillage (CT) was tested against three CA practices: conventional tillage with straw mulch (CTS), no-till (NT) and no-till with straw mulch (NTS). The results indicated that all three CA practices (CTS, NT and NTS) markedly increased soil water content (SWC), soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil total nitrogen (STN) but reduced soil temperature (ST). Average grain yields were 854.46 ± 76.51, 699.30 ± 133.52 and 908.18±38.64 kg ha-1respectively under CTS, NT and NTS indicating an increase by approximately 33%, 9% and 41% respectively compared with CT (644.61 ± 76.98 kg ha−1). There were significant (p < 0.05) reductions of Net CO2emissions under NT (7.37 ± 0.89 tCO2e ha−1y−1) and NTS (6.65 ± 0.73 tCO2e ha-1y-1) compared with CTS (10.65 ± 0.18 tCO2e ha−1y−1) and CT (11.14 ± 0.58 tCO2e ha−1y−1). All the treatments served as sinks of CH4but NTS had the highest absorption capacity (−0.27 ± 0.024 tCO2e ha−1y−1) and increased absorption significantly (p < 0.05) compared with CT (−0.21 ± 0.017 tCO2e ha−1y−1); however, CA did not reduce emissions of N2O. These had an influence on Global warming potential (GWP) as NT and NTS resulted in significant reduction in net GWP. Grain yield was significantly correlated positively with SOC and STN (p < 0.05); ecosystem respiration was also significantly correlated with SWC and ST while CH4flux was highly correlated with ST (p < 0.001). Crop yield and GHG responses to CA were controlled by soil hydrothermal and nutrient changes, thus improving these conditions through adoption of sustainable soil moisture improvement practices such as no-till, straw mulch, green manuring, contour ploughing and terracing can improve crop resilience to climate change and reduce GHG emissions in arid and semi-arid regions.
Diminished Bone Marrow Oedema and Healing of Insufficiency Fractures in a HIV Patient after Switching Antiviral Therapies
Authors: Radmer Sebastian , Andresen Julian Ramin , Andresen Reimer
Published: April 2021

This is a case report about the recurrent onset of bone marrow oedemas and insufficiency fractures in a 64-year-old male Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-patient, who was going through an antiviral treatment. The patient experienced stress-related pain and swelling in both ankle joints and feet, and was treated antivirally with Atripla® for several years. Therapeutically, conservative treatment as well as a therapeutic trial with bisphosphonates were performed. As a result of developing renal insufficiency, antiviral therapy was switched to a combination of Prezista® and Norvir®. Only after switching the antiviral therapy, there was a clear clinical improvement of the symptoms. The clinical symptoms correlated well with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), the features of which are detectable regressive bone marrow oedemas and the healing of insufficiency fractures. The impaired renal function improved to a compensated retention. In the case of HIV patients with unclear joint complaints, the presence of bone marrow oedema should be considered.
Association and Determinants of Decision-Delivery Interval of Emergency Caesarean Sections and Perinatal Outcome in a Tertiary Institution
Authors: Igwe Peace Chinyere , Egede John Okafor , Ogah Emeka Onwe , Anikwe Chidebe Christian , Nwali Matthew Igwe , Lawani Lucky Osaheni
Published: April 2021

Introduction: A Decision to Delivery Interval (DDI) of 30 minutes for emergency caesarean section has been widely recommended but there is little evidence to support it. This target may not be practicable in a busy maternity unity and therefore, the anticipated beneficial effect on neonatal outcome requires re-evaluation. Aim: To determine the association between decision-delivery interval and perinatal outcome of emergency caesarean section at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (AEFUTHA) over a period of four years. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective observational study of the cases in emergency caesarean sections performed at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, AEFUTHA from 1st January 2012 to 1st January 2016. Hospital records of the women with singleton pregnancy at term who delivered through emergency caesarean sections were retrieved. Data extracted include socio-demographic and obstetric characteristics, duration between decision for caesarean section and intervention, indications for the caesarean section, reasons for delay in DDI, association between booking status and DDI and association of DDI and foetal outcome, APGAR score at 1st and 5th minutes and admission to NICU. Data were analysed with IBM statistics version 20. The p-value <0.05 were regarded as statistically significant. Results: A total of 638 emergency caesarean sections involving singleton pregnancies at term, 522 (81.8%) of which had complete records and were analysed. The mean age of participants was 27.8±5.1 years, 89.3% were para 1-4 and 55.0% were unbooked. Only 6 (1.1%) of the emergency caesarean sections were performed within the recommended 30 minutes of DDI. The mean DDI was 189±124 minutes with range of 25 minutes to 1220 minutes. Two cases performed within 25 minutes were cases of foetal distress and cord prolapse while only a case of reduced foetal movement was delayed to 1220 minutes. The most common indications for emergency caesarean section were cephalopelvic disproportion 129 (24.7%) and foetal distress 65 (12.5%). The major cause of delay was delay in cross-matching of blood for surgery 136 (26.1%) while delay in giving informed consent contributed 67 (12.8%). There was no correlation between DDI of 75 minutes or above and the 1st minute APGAR score (AOR=2.48, CI=0.86-7.16, p-value=0.09), 5th minute APGAR score (AOR=3.08, CI=1.55-6.11, p-value=0.09), foetal outcome (AOR=0.82, CI=017-3.79, p-value=0.08) and admission to Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) (AOR=2.08, CI=0.77-5.56, p-value=0.14). Conclusion: This study showed that there was no correlation between DDI>75 minutes and poor perinatal outcome. Efforts should be made to strengthen the health system and improve the quality of care in order to keep DDI within this time limit for improved perinatal health outcome and indices.
A Structured Maternity Case Record to Improve Quality of Documentation in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Delhi
Authors: Radhika AG , Dengri Chetna , Kumar Abhishek , Singh Shalini
Published: April 2021

Introduction: India contributes to about 18% of global maternal deaths and 22.6% of still births. Efforts to improve the quality of care are challenged by the lack of reliable documentation of data. Hence, a concise, structured maternity case sheet (PrasavRecord) was designed with the aim to bring about an improvement in documentation of treatment and events related to woman in labour from the time of admission till her discharge from the hospital. Aim: To study the improvement in quality of documentation from the time of admission till discharge of a woman in labour with the help of structured format i.e., PrasavRecord. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in February 2017. A quasi experimental study design was used, and the completeness of data recorded by the resident doctors in the existing hospital case sheet (control group) with those recorded in PrasavRecord (intervention group) were assessed in a total of 65 deliveries in each arm. Details of the patient from admission to the labour room followed by the entire sequence of events during labour as well as hospital stay in postpartum period were recorded over 130 parameters under different sections in PrasavRecord. Statistical analysis was done by using SPSS version 21.0. Results: Completeness of the documentation in terms of history, investigations and findings at examination including those at labour, nearly, 92% of the doctors rated PrasavRecord as “good and very good” for appearance, recommended its routine use, and 75% agreed that the format will be useful for conversion to electronic medical record. There was highly significant difference between the average percentage of completeness in PrasavRecord 75.8 {95% CI (74.2-77.4)} and hospital case sheets 42.2 {95% CI (40.9-43.6)} i.e., z=5.38 p-value <0.001. Conclusion: PrasavRecord is a simple, acceptable and user-friendly data entry format which improves the quality of documentation of the processes and practices during childbirth. Larger trials are required to finetune it to facilitate its widespread use thereby, ensuring a uniform documentation process of labour and postpartum.
Urinary Effects of Routine Urethral Catheterisation during Elective Caesarean Section in Enugu, Nigeria: A Randomised Controlled Study
Authors: Onwudiwe Elijah Nduka , Ezegwui Hyginus Uzo , Dim Cyril Chukwudi , Chigbu Chibuike Ogwuegbu , Onwudiwe Chinyere Florence , Enebe Joseph Tochukwu
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Routine urinary catheterisation during elective caesarean section is a common practice. However, this practice involves some urinary bladder morbidities. Aim: To determine the effect of non-catheterisation of the urinary bladder on the incidence of significant bacteriuria and other perioperative urinary bladder morbidities during elective caesarean section in Enugu, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A multicentre, non-inferiority randomised controlled study was conducted. The study centres were the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Mother of Christ Specialist Hospital (MOCSH), and Blessed Assurance Specialist Hospital (BASH), all in Enugu State, Southeast Nigeria. A total of 264 eligible consenting term pregnant women who had a caesarean section in these three specialist centres in Enugu, Nigeria over a one-year period were recruited and they completed the study and their results were analysed. Study group (A) did not receive urethral catheterisation while the control group (B) had urethral catheterisation on the operating table and the catheters were removed 24 hours after the surgery. Clean catched urine samples were collected from each participant 72 hours after the surgery for urine microscopy and culture. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of significant bacteriuria 72 hours postoperatively while the secondary outcome measures included incidence of intraoperative bladder injury (accidental cystostomy), primary postpartum haemorrhage and urinary retention. Results: Nine (6.8%) women in the non-catheter group (n=132) had significant bacteriuria as against 17 (12.9%) women in the catheter group (n=132), (Relative Risk (RR)=0.5 (95% CI: 0.24-1.14) p=0.098). Urinary retention was observed in 10.6% (14/132) of the non-catheter group while there was no case of urinary retention in the control group (p<0.001). There was neither a case of accidental cystostomy nor postpartum haemorrhage in either group. Conclusion: Non-catheterisation of the urinary bladder during elective caesarean section had no significant relationship with the incidence of significant bacteriuria in Enugu, Nigeria. Rather, it was associated with postoperative urinary retention when compared to women who had a urinary catheter.
Analysis of Caesarean Section Rates Using the Robson Ten-group Classification at a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital in Eastern India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Konar Hiralal , Sarkar Madhutandra , Chowdhury Sisir Kumar
Published: April 2021

Introduction: The Robson ten-group classification identifies the women’s groups that make the greatest contribution to the overall rate of Caesarean Section (CS), and thereby helps to optimise CS rates. It also helps to ensure optimum maternal and perinatal outcomes. Aim: This study was undertaken to examine the rates of CS using the Robson ten-group classification, and also to identify the women’s groups that contribute most to CS rates in a tertiary care teaching and referral hospital in Kolkata, India. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted over a period of one year from May 2012 to April 2013. All pregnant women admitted under the supervision of a particular unit of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and delivered in that hospital during the study period were included. Necessary data collection was done on the following parameters, i.e., previous obstetric history, category of pregnancy, course of labour and delivery, and gestational age. The women were categorised into the ten Robson groups. For each group, the CS rate, relative size of the group, and the percentage contribution made by the group to the overall CS rate were calculated and expressed in percentages. Chi-square test, Z-test and the trial version of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 were used to analyse the data. Results: The CS rate in the present study was 43.13% (735 out of 1704 deliveries). Not only the largest group in terms of relative size 649 (38.08%), the Robson group 1 had a CS rate of 41.75% (271/649), as well as the largest absolute number of caesarean deliveries. The group 1 made the largest contribution (271) to the overall CS rate (15.9%). The group 5 was the second largest contributing group 155 (9.09%), followed by group 3 96 (5.63%) and group 2 69 (4.04%). In the present study group 5 showed the CS rate of 95.67%, group 3 with CS rate of 24.48% and group 2 with CS rate of 60.52%. Conclusion: The Robson groups 1, 2, 3 and 5 were found to be the major contributors to the overall CS rate. These groups may be targeted for effective interventions to reduce the CS rate. Active management of labour in a primigravida with spontaneous onset, reduction of primary caesarean delivery, promoting vaginal birth after CS, and careful assessment of cases before induction of labour in nulliparous women, are likely to be few effective strategies.
Analysis of Scoring System to Identify High Risk Patients and their Outcome in Isolated Blunt Chest Trauma- A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Baby Annrish Tan , Appukuttan Anuraj , Jothi Harihara , Sajan Reema
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Chest trauma is a major cause of mortality accounting for a substantial proportion of all trauma admissions and death. In India, the reported mortality range is between 4-60% and no current national guidelines exist to assist the management of this patient group unless patient has severe immediate life threatening injuries. A scoring system for identification of patients at higher risk for development of morbidity and mortality will allow early selection of vulnerable patients, choice of an appropriate treatment protocol and therapeutic interventions. Aim: This present study aims for the analysis of a scoring system to identify patients with isolated blunt chest trauma at higher risk for morbidity and mortality, in order to prioritise intervention and improve the outcome. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective observational study conducted at the departments of emergency medicine and general surgery of a tertiary care teaching hospital in South India over a period of 18 months. The study included 85 isolated blunt chest trauma patients. We utilised a Chest Trauma Score (CTS) composed of patient factors like age, smoking, lung disease and severity factors like rib fractures, parenchymal and pleural involvement, partial pressure of oxygen/ fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2) ratio. CTS were applied at the time of admission after detailed assessment of all injuries. Patient was followed-up at regular intervals upto 30 days. The CTS and outcome measurements were analysed using logistic regression analysis. Results: The area under Receiver Operating Characteristic curve (ROC) was found to be 0.979 (p-value <0.001). The CTS cut-off value was ≥11.5 with 89% sensitivity and 95% specificity. In patients with CTS ≥11.5, 98.3% had associated morbidity and complications whereas only 25.9% with CTS <11.5 had associated morbidity (p-value<0.001). Number of rib fractures, pulmonary contusion and PaO2/FiO2 ratio (odds ratio 10.632, 6.007, 12.859, respectively) were found to be significant independent predictors of morbidity and complications. Conclusion: In summary, CTS ≥11.5 has shown a significant association with poor outcome. Patients who sustained isolated blunt chest trauma and together with increasing scores, had increasing incidence of morbidity and complications. The scoring system used in this study proved that it makes a useful tool to predict the outcome in thoracic trauma.
Vanishing Non-immune Hydrops in Giant Chorioangioma of Placenta
Authors: Dubey Sunita , Kaushal Aayushi , Pavithra HN
Published: April 2021

Giant Chorioangioma of placenta is a rare nontrophoblastic tumour of placenta. It may lead to various maternal and foetal complications like massive antepartum haemorrhage, sudden intrauterine foetal demise and non-immune hydrops, although in few cases mother and the foetus remain unaffected. This report is of a 35-year-old G3P1L1A1, presented to hospital at 32 weeks gestation with pain abdomen followed by watery discharge from vagina. Ultrasonography at 30 weeks revealed a huge mass on anterior wall with placenta on posterior wall of uterus although her previous antenatal sonography did not reveal any abnormality either in the foetus or in placenta. Diagnosis of preterm rupture of membranes was confirmed. Hence, she was kept on conservative management; received antibiotics and steroids for foetal lung maturity. Subsequently, the foetus developed mild, steady non-immune hydrops probably due to high output cardiac failure as Values of Middle Cerebral Artery’s Peak Systolic Velocity (MCA-PSV) were within normal limits. Biophysical profile and nonstress test were normal. Guarded foetal prognosis was given due to non-immune hydrops but she delivered a normal female baby with good Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity and Respiration (APGAR) score with huge chorioangioma of placenta. Although rare, chorioangiomas of placenta should be kept in differential diagnosis of non-immune hydrops that needs regular foetal surveillance and timely intervention in affected foetuses to increase survival after birth.
A Rare Case of Malignant Transformation of Keratinous Cyst in Gluteal Region
Authors: Balapriya BS , Anantharamakrishnan R , Kumar K Senthil , Muniraj Femela , Raghavan Vijayashree
Published: April 2021

Keratinous cyst (Epidermoid cysts) is more common and frequently encountered. It is one of the commonest benign lesion. Malignant transformation of keratinous (epidermoid) cyst is very rare. Epidermal cyst is noted as non-malignant condition. Few cases have shown malignant transformation of keratinous cyst into Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). Here, authors report a rare case of 49-year-old male who presented with long standing keratinous cyst in gluteal region which turned out as SCC 35 years after intial presentation of the leison, and here authors have discussed the clinicopathological features of this rare entity. Hence, any swelling which is long standing, showing sudden increase in size, progressing symptoms, more than 2 cm in diameter, cyst content seen as heterogenous pattern on imaging should be highly suspicious of malignancy.
Isolated Fallopian Tubal Torsion Complicated by a Large Hydrosalpinx in a Perimenopausal Woman
Authors: Kanemura Masanori , Yoshida Atsushi , Toji Akihiko , Murayama Yumi , Iwai Emi
Published: April 2021

Adnexal torsion frequently causes acute pelvic pain in women. Ovarian tumour torsion is common; twisting and torsion of a fallopian tube are rare. This report presents a rare case of fallopian tubal torsion requiring the management of a large hydrosalpinx with laparoscopic surgery. A 48-year-old woman reported with acute abdominal pain and lower abdomen tenderness. Transvaginal ultrasonography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) showed a cystic mass on the anterior uterine surface. Emergency surgery was performed for a suspected torsion of the left ovarian cyst. In the abdominal cavity, the left fallopian tube was enlarged (neonatal head size), dark purple coloured, and exhibited a 180° torsion; the left ovary was normal. Laparoscopic left salpingectomy was performed and the postoperative course was uneventful. Surgical pathology revealed hydrosalpinx with torsion. As diagnosing isolated fallopian tube torsion before surgery is difficult, laparoscopic surgery is useful in diagnosing and treating isolated tubal torsion.
Comparison of Visual Inspection using Acetic Acid and Liquid Based Cytology for Cervical Cancer Screening in Rural Area: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Shree Pragya , Mittal Nupur , Verma Vandana
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the primary malignancy in Indian women. The most significant method for untimely diagnosis of cancer cervix is cytology screening, but it is not possible to launch nationwide cytology screening programme of cervical cancer. So, this has lead to the development of low cost technology e.g., visual inspection of the cervix after application of acetic acid. Aim: To compare Visual Inspection using Acetic Acid (VIA) and Liquid Based Cytology (LBC) in evaluation of abnormal cervical lesions. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 1600 women who fulfill selection criteria. Patients attending Gynaecology Outpatient Department (OPD) with the following signs and symptoms like vaginal discharge, abnormal uterine bleeding, lowback pain, contact bleeding, and lower abdominal pain were included. After taking informed consent, the participant was subjected to detailed history, physical examination, LBC, VIA and Colposcopy followed by biopsy (if required). The sensitivity and specificity of each test are determined and compared. Data entry and analysis were done using SPSS Inc., version 11.0. Results: In present study, VIA was more sensitive (92.06%) than the LBC (68.25%) for the detection of dysplasia. However, the specificities of VIA (56.76%) and LBC (54.05%) had not much difference. Positive Pedictive Value (PPV) of VIA was 78.38% and Negative Predictive Value (NPV) of VIA was 80.77% while PPV of LBC was 71.67% and NPV of LBC was 50%. The accuracy of VIA (79%) is higher than LBC (63%). Conclusion: The VIA is more sensitive screening modality than LBC. The accuracy of VIA is higher than LBC in detecting premalignant lesion which makes it a suitable and valuable alternative screening method to cytology in poor resource setting.
Locally Advanced Bladder Paraganglioma Managed with Robot-assisted Radical Cystectomy with Intracorporeal Neobladder- A Case Report
Authors: Handa Anoop , Dash Sharat Chandra , Solanki Nimit , Singh Gagandeep
Published: April 2021

Paragangliomas are neuroendocrine tumours of extra-adrenal origin. Primary bladder paragangliomas are rare and have variable functional status, which presents a challenge in their management by minimally invasive surgery. Surgical resection necessitates minimal intraoperative handling of tumour, minimising physiological deterioration. Here in, a case is reported of incidentally detected locally advanced bladder paraganglioma which was managed successfully with robot-assisted radical cystectomy and intracorporeal ileal neobladder formation.
Evaluation of Efficacy of Femoral Nerve Block on Pain and Anxiety in Acute Fractures of the Femur in the Emergency Department
Authors: Tripathi Shiv Shanker , Ambasta Suruchi , Mahapatra Swagat , Agarwal Anurag , Rastogi Shivani
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Fractures around the hip and fractures of the femur are commonly encountered in the Emergency Department (ED). Effective control of pain in these fractures is of critical importance for proper radiography, reduction and splintage. Traditionally, systemic analgesics have been used for pain relief which had its own limitations both in terms of pain relief and relaxation. Use of Femoral Nerve Block (FNB) in acute fractures around the hip and femur has been a challenge and, evaluation of this procedure has been the subject of research recently in ED. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of FNB in decreasing pain and anxiety in acute fractures of the femur. Materials and Methods: Prospective interventional study was conducted at a tertiary care centre with well-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eighty four patients with fractures around the hip, fractures of the shaft and distal femur underwent ultrasound guided FNB for performance of retrieval procedures. Visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain and Hamilton Anxiety Score (HAM-A) score for anxiety were used as parameter both for pre and postblock to assess the effectiveness. Subjective assessment of the patients comfort level was also done. Statistical analysis of all data obtained was done using SPSS 21.0. Results: Study group (n=84) included in the evaluation were homogenous in terms of age and sex distribution. The mean±SD VAS score preoperatively was 72.93±10.91. At 30 minutes and 4 hours postblock,the mean±SD VAS scores were 18.65±5.25 and 13.88±6.05, respectively. There was statistically significant difference in VAS score at 30 minutes (p=0.004) and 4 hours (p=0.015). The mean Hamilton Anxiety score at preblock and 4 hour postblock was 27.05±5.94 and 8.07±3.7, respectively. The overall HAM-A score comparison showed that there was statistically significant change after 4 hours postblock (p=0.013) showing significant decrease in anxiety levels. All patients were satisfied by the comfort and ease of shifting after block. Intergroup analysis of fractures around the hip (Neck femur, Trochanter) and fractures of the shaft (Shaft femur and distal femur) revealed equal efficacy of the femoral block. Conclusion: Ultrasound guided FNB is an easy and safe means of providing pain and anxiety relief to patients with the fracture of the femur (neck femur, per-trochanteric femur, shaft femur or distal femur) in the ED. At the same time, it decreases the need of systemic analgesia.
Exploring the Impacts of Sharing Economy Drivers on Consumers’ Usage Intention
Authors: Chiang I Ping , Lin Pei-Wen , Yang Wan-Ling
Published: April 2021

In recent years, people have begun to use sharing economy platforms such as Airbnb and Uber. The rapid development of such sharing economy platforms has thus become an important topic. Studies regarding the sharing economy have discussed resource providers but not users. Therefore, this study constructs a model to measure the components of sharing economy drivers and the correlation between those drivers and usage intention, in addition to exploring the differences in the composition of drivers and usage intention between Airbnb and Uber. The survey method was an online questionnaire. The sample analysis uses partial least squares regression to verify the hypothesis and analyze the components that form the sharing economy for drivers. According to the results, sharing economy drivers─Societal drivers, Economic drivers, Technological drivers, affect usage intention, and different combinations of sharing economy components, such as enjoyment, network externalities, perceived quality, cost saving, and efficiency, exist in Airbnb and Uber. For the reference of relevant academic research and practical operation in the future.
A Comparative Economic Study of Tomato Production by Hydroponics and Conventional Agriculture (With Soil) in Greenhouses: A Case Study in the Nubaria Region
Authors: Abdelmawgoud Shady Mohamed Shawky , Aziz Hossam Hosney Abdul , Shibl Ahmed Abdel Ati , Qabeel Mufidah Al-Sayed
Published: April 2021

One of the most important challenges and obstacles faced by tomato farmers in the new lands is the scarcity of productive resources and their high cost, especially the suppliers of fresh water and arable land, which negatively affects the net yield. Therefore, this research paper aims to make a comparison between tomato production using traditional greenhouses (with soil) and using Hydroponics technology in the new lands with the research sample, aiming to measure the effect of using hydroponics in agricultural greenhouses on the most important indicators of economic returns, by studying and analyzing the cost components of the two production types and studying the most important productive, economic and financial indicators.
Analysis of Socio-Economic Status and Gender Related Differential Item Functioning Using Item Response Theory Approach
Authors: Eteng-Uket Stella
Published: April 2021

The study investigated detecting differential item functioning using item response theory in West African Senior School Certificate English language test in south-south Nigeria. 2 research questions were formulated to guide the study. Using descriptive research survey design for the study, study population was 117845 Senior Secondary 3 students in Edo, Delta, Rivers and Bayelsa state. A sample of 1309 (604 males, 705 females) drawn through multi stage sampling technique was used for the study. Two valid instruments titled: Socio-economic status questionnaire (SSQ) and WASSCE/SSCE English language objective test (ELOT) were used to collect data for the study. The reliability indices of the instruments were estimated using the Cronbach Alpha method of internal consistency and Richard Kuderson 20 with coefficient values of .84 for the English Language objective test and .71 for the socio-economic status questionnaire respectively. Chi-square and Lord Wald test statistics statistical technique employed by Item Response Theory for Patient Reported Outcome (IRTPRO) was the technique used in data analysis which provided answers to the research questions at.05 level of significance. On analysis, the result revealed that 13 items functioned differently significant between the male and female group and significantly 23 items differentially functioned between High and low socio-economic status group. Thus, this shows 18% DIF based on gender and 32% based on socio-economic status indicating large DIF and items that are potentially biased. Based on the findings, recommendation were made and one among others was that Item Response theory should be used as DIF detection method by large scale public examination and test developers.
Review Article: Fish Bone Collagen
Authors: Wijaya Andre , Junianto .
Published: April 2021

Fishbone collagen is an alternative source of bovine and pig collagen. The purpose of this article is to review the types, benefits, extraction methods and characterization of collagen from fish bones, especially freshwater fish. The result of the review shows that the collagen from tilapia bones is shaped like a sheet with a slight porous surface and is of type I. Collagen extraction begins with bone disease from the remaining fat, then degreasing and the next step is extraction. After the extraction process is complete, filtration is carried out to store the filtrate or residue, then the collagen is purified by salting-out with NaCl. Collagen yield and collagen pH value from collagen extraction were different for each type of fish bone. The difference in yield value and protein and amino acid content in the resulting collagen can be caused by differences in the extraction method, the concentration of the solution used, whether acid or alkaline, and the neutralization process and the type of raw material. Fishbone collagen has good benefits in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical fields.
Effect of Seedbed Types and time of Vine Harvesting on Shoot and Tuber Yields of Sweet Potato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] in South-south, Nigeria
Authors: Gbaraneh Lesi Dike , Wilson Victoria
Published: April 2021

A field experiment was conducted at Rivers Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (RIART), Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria with the objective of evaluating the influence of seedbed types and vine harvesting time on shoot and tuber yields of sweet potato and make recommendations for optimal and sustainable production. The treatments consisted of three seedbed types (ridge, flat, and mound), and four vine harvesting time (8, 12, 16 and 20 weeks after planting). The experiment was laid out as a 3 x 4 in factorial arrangement fitted into a randomized complete block design (RCBD) and replicated three times. The results revealed that planting of sweet potato on ridge produced the highest root tuber yield followed by mound seedbeds; planting on flat seedbed produced the highest shoot (vine) and lowest tuber yields. While planting on ridge seedbed and harvesting the vines 16 weeks after planting (when about 80% of the growth phase of the plant was completed) produced optimum shoot yield which could be used as fodder with no significant effect on root tuber yield. In general, vine harvesting during active growth phase of the sweet potato plant seriously depressed tuber yield more than it affected shoot production. These results therefore stand as our recommendations for sweet potato production in the South-south zone of Nigeria.
Discipline Management in Urban Middle Secondary Schools: Principals, Counselors, Students and Parents Perceptions
Authors: Phuntsho Sonam
Published: April 2021

Guided by the principles of helping the children in continuity learning the research aims at discipline management in urban middle secondary schools. This study examined the disciplinary issues and different stakeholders; principals, Counsellors, Students and Parents perceptions. The sample of the study consisted of 15 participants. The study is significant because its findings and conclusions are so relevant to different stakeholders to implement and strategies to keep the students into the education system and also help the children improve their discipline.

For school principals, counselors, teachers, students and parents, the findings of this research will help to maintain discipline in their respective roles and responsibilities entrusted to them. Policy makers at the ministerial level may use as bases for developing a national school discipline policy and guidelines. For future researchers it may serve as a handy tool or base to study further on discipline management. The project aims to investigate and explore viable strategies to enhance current practices of managing ethical issues concerning students in schools. Qualitative research design has been used to conduct the research. To make the study more authentic and generalization purpose, a total of 15 research participants/ respondents were involved. The findings are fundamentally based on the lived experiences and perceptions of these respondents which correspond with phenomenological strategy of qualitative research. Although respondents had common views as well as difference of opinion on certain issues on discipline management of school, outcomes of the study are triangulated.