bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical technique for the management of corneal perforation in brittle cornea
Authors: Matalia Himanshu P , Nandini Chinnappaiah , Matalia Jyoti
Published: September 2021

Brittle cornea syndrome is among the few special scenarios in ophthalmology that are a nightmare not only for the operating surgeon but also for the patient. Here, the thin and fragile corneas are unable to maintain the shape and structural integrity of the globe and are more prone to minor traumatic or spontaneous corneal perforations. Suturing a brittle cornea and closure of the corneal perforation in a brittle cornea are very challenging requiring the utmost care and special precautions. If proper measures are not taken during the surgery, it may be difficult to salvage the eye. Hence, it is imperative to diagnose appropriately, suture effectively, taking necessary preventive measures in salvaging these corneas. This manuscript aims at providing tips for handling brittle corneal perforations. It will also discuss the problems encountered during surgery, highlight the suturing techniques that can be customized, and finally give an insight into postoperative care.
Changes in corneal curvature and visual acuity in North Indian adults after pterygium excision with modified sutureless, glueless limbal-conjunctival autograft
Authors: Gumber Akriti , Nishant Prateek , Sinha Sony , Goel Ruchi , Malik K P S
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

To identify the exact time point during after following pterygium excision with a modified technique of sutureless, glueless limbal-conjunctival autograft, when stabilization of the change in corneal curvature is achieved; correlate size of pterygium with uncorrected visual acuity and astigmatism at baseline, and assess changes in these parameters postoperatively over time.

Methods:

This prospective study longitudinally assessed 30 eyes of 30 north Indian adults with primary pterygium encroaching upon ≥1 mm of the cornea pre- and postoperatively at 1 week and then monthly for 4 months, recording uncorrected (UCVA) and best-corrected logMAR visual acuity, astigmatism and keratometry. Results were analyzed using ANOVA, Mauchly’s test of sphericity with Greenhouse–Geisser correction, and post-hoc test using Bonferroni correction. Pearson’s correlation coefficient r > 0.5 was considered clinically significant, and P < 0.05 statistically significant.

Results:

Pterygium size was well correlated with pre-operative astigmatism (r = 0.867, P < 0.001) and pre-operative UCVA (r = 0.856, P < 0.001). There was mean improvement of 0.43 logMAR units of visual acuity (P < 0.00001), a mean increase of 0.79D of keratometric value for the flatter meridian (P < 0.00001) and a mean reduction of 2.00D of astigmatism (P < 0.00001). At 2-month follow-up, the keratometric value for the flatter meridian approached the final keratometric reading at 4 months such that the difference was not significant (t = 1.185, P = 0.245). There were no significant complications or recurrence during the follow-up period.

Conclusion:

Pterygium excision with modified autograft reduced corneal astigmatism and improved visual acuity comparable to classical technique. Alteration in corneal curvature stabilizes 2 months after surgery, when spectacle correction can be given to patients.
Evaluation of corneal sensitivity in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Sukkarieh Georges , Ghorayeb Ralph , Issa Mohamad , Koussa Salam , Waked Naji
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

To measure the corneal sensitivity in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), to compare it with normal values and to study its correlation with different disease characteristics.

Methods:

Corneal sensitivity of 28 MS patients was compared to corneal sensitivity of 28 age- and gender-matched normal controls. Corneal sensitivity was measured using the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer and was correlated to the duration, type and severity indexes of the disease.

Results:

Corneal sensitivity was comparable between both groups (P = 0.79). No statistically significant correlation was found between corneal sensitivity and the duration of MS (P = 0.55) nor the severity indexes of MS (expanded disability status scale [EDSS] P = 0.52, global multiple sclerosis severity score [MSSS] P = 0.64). Following subgroup analysis, only the primary progressive (PPMS) form of MS had a reduced corneal sensitivity with P = 0.023, while remittent-recurrent (RRMS), secondary progressive (SPMS), and clinically isolated (CIS) forms of MS did not have any reduction in the corneal sensitivity. “ROC curve analysis” showed an area under the curve of 0.48.

Conclusion:

In the exception of PPMS subtype, MS patients have similar corneal sensitivity in comparison to controls. Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer does not seem to be a good diagnostic tool or a disease severity marker for patients with MS.
iStent versus iStent inject implantation combined with phacoemulsification in open angle glaucoma
Authors: Shalaby Wesam Shamseldin , Lam Sophia S , Arbabi Amirmohsen , Myers Jonathan S , Moster Marlene R , Kolomeyer Natasha N , Razeghinejad Reza , Shukla Aakriti Garg , Hussein Tarek R , Eid Tarek M , Shalaby Said M , Lee Daniel
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

To compare the outcomes of iStent vs. iStent inject implantation combined with phacoemulsification.

Methods:

This single center retrospective comparative case series included subjects with open angle glaucoma who underwent iStent or iStent inject implantation combined with phacoemulsification with ≥1 year follow-up. The main outcome measures were in-group and between-group changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) and medication number, proportion of eyes that achieved IOP ≤15 mmHg, and surgical success defined as 20% IOP reduction from baseline at 6/12 months. Univariate/multivariate regression analyses were done to identify predictors of surgical failure.

Results:

One hundred ninety-seven eyes of 148 patients were included (122 iStent, 75 iStent inject). Both groups achieved significant IOP and medication reduction at months 6/12 (P < 0.05). At month 6, IOP was significantly lower in iStent inject vs. iStent eyes (P = 0.003), but the difference was insignificant by month 12 (P = 0.172). Medication number was comparable in both groups at months 6/12 (P > 0.05). More iStent inject eyes achieved IOP ≤15 mmHg at month 6 (P = 0.003) and 12 (P = 0.047). Surgical success was comparable in both groups at months 6/12 (P > 0.05). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed similar cumulative rate of surgical failure at year-1 in both groups (P = 0.644). The multivariate model identified older age (P = 0.017) and lower baseline IOP (P = 0.002) as the strongest predictors of surgical failure.

Conclusion:

Compared to iStent, iStent inject achieved lower IOP at month 6 and higher proportion of eyes achieved IOP ≤15 mmHg at month 6/12. However, surgical success was similar in both groups. Predictors of surgical failure were older age and lower baseline IOP rather than the stent type.
Microincision phacoemulsification combined with sutureless transpupillary passive silicone oil removal
Authors: Thulasidas Mithun , Gupta Hemlata , Sachdev Mahipal S , Gupta Avnindra , Verma Lalit , Vohra Sanchi
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

To evaluate the outcomes of combined microincision phacoemulsification with sutureless transpupillary silicone oil (SO) removal using an irrigation probe of bimanual irrigation/aspiration.

Methods:

We conducted a single-center retrospective study, including patients who had undergone phacoemulsification with transpupillary removal of SO, which had been used for intraocular tamponade after a previous pars plana vitrectomy. Outcome measures were corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), refractive error, intraocular pressure (IOP), and endothelial cell count (ECC) evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively at 3-month follow-up. Any intraoperative or postoperative complications, duration of surgery, and final retinal status at 3 months were also noted.

Results:

Seventy-four eyes (74 patients) were analyzed. The mean interval between SO placement and cataract surgery was 4.73 months (standard deviation [SD]: 1.02). CDVA improved in 66 (89.2%) eyes and remained the same in 8 (10.8%) eyes (P < 0.001). The mean postoperative spherical equivalent was −0.96D (SD: 0.75) at 3 months (P < 0.001). There was a significant drop in IOP from 15.08 mmHg (SD: 2.67) preoperatively to 11.64 mmHg (SD: 2.02) postoperatively (P < 0.001). The average ECC loss was only 5.7% at 3 months postoperatively. The mean surgical duration was 17.20 min (SD: 7.02). One patient had retinal redetachment and required resurgery. At 3 months, the retina was attached in all patients.

Conclusion:

Combined microincision phacoemulsification with transpupillary passive SO removal using irrigation probe of bimanual irrigation/aspiration is a safe, effective, and less invasive technique that offers the main advantage of reduced surgical trauma, and should be reserved for patients with a stable retina, not requiring additional surgical intervention.
Both subscales of the Keratoconus End-Points Assessment Questionnaire have excellent test-retest reliability
Authors: Balparda Kepa , Galarreta David J , Vanegas-Ramirez Claudia M. , Silva-Quintero Laura A , Botero-Giraldo Mariana , Maya-Naranjo Maria I , Pizarro-Marín Paula A
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

The keratoconus end-points assessment questionnaire (KEPAQ) is a disease-specific scale designed to evaluate the quality of life in keratoconus patients and provides the measurement of both functional and emotional compromise in keratoconus. It was previously developed, tested, and validated and now we want to evaluate the test-retest reliability of the KEPAQ, in an effort to contribute evidence on its internal consistency and capability of measuring clinical state with minimal inference of random chance.

Methods:

This is a prospective analytical study, designed to evaluate the test-retest reliability of the KEPAQ through the repeated application of the questionnaire to a group of clinically stable individuals. A number of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of keratoconus underwent double application of the KEPAQ, seven days apart. Mean KEPAQ score was obtained through Rasch analysis, while test-retest reliability was evaluated through Spearman rank-order correlation and intraclass correlation coefficient. Rasch analysis was performed in JMetrik version 4.1.1 (Psychomeasurement Systems LLC; Charlottesville, VA, USA) in a MacBook Air computer running macOS Catalina version 10.15.2 (Apple Inc.; Cupertino, CA, USA).

Results:

A total of 100 patients were included. For KEPAQ-E, Spearman correlation was R = 0.963 while ICC was 0.981 (95% confidence interval 0.972–0.987). For KEPAQ-F, Spearman correlation was R = 0.921 while ICC was 0.952 (95% confidence interval 0.929–0.968).

Conclusion:

The KEPAQ is a robust, well-developed, extremely reliable scale which can be confidently used for clinical and research endeavors.
An overview of algae prospects in cosmeceuticals
Authors: El-Chaghaby Ghadir A. , Rashad Sayed
Published: September 2021

Skin is considered as the mirror of the body's health, and thus, prevention or treatment of any skin problems is an important idea. Algae are among the wealthiest aquatic commodities that are considered healthy and have negligible effect on human cytotoxicity. They are considered as a resourceful material for bioactive compounds, including vitamins, polyphenolic compounds, carotenoids, chitin, and others that have been reported to have powerful skin benefits. Algae products are now being commercialized as skin care products, and their effectiveness in treating skin problems such as rashes, pigmentation and ageing is well proven. In this review, we summarize the important algal bioactive ingredients and their effects on skin. Moreover, the review reports some studies concerning the use of algae components for skin care. Algae use in cosmeceuticals’ industry offers a safe, healthier, and economic alternative for synthetic products.
Idiopathic Scrotal calcinosis cutis – does its pathogenesis link with epidermal cyst? A case report with review of literature from rural India
Authors: Krishna Mani , Dayal Seema
Published: September 2021

Idiopathic calcinosis cutis is characterized by multiple nodules present on scrotal skin. They are usually seen in young adults and present as painless, asymptomatic, round, and firm nodules. A 30-year-old male presented with painless, multiple scrotal nodules. The serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, calcitonin, and parathyroid hormone were within normal limits. There was also no history of trauma. Clinically, it was diagnosed as sebaceous cyst. Fine-needle aspiration cytology examination was suggestive of epidermal inclusion cyst. Histopathology examination confirmed the diagnosis of idiopathic scrotal calcinosis cutis, thus suggesting that the dystrophic calcification of epidermal inclusion may be an initiating event in the pathogenesis of the idiopathic scrotal calcinosis cutis. The documentations regarding the association of idiopathic calcinosis cutis with epidermal cyst are not enough. Hence, this case report may enrich the scanty existing data.
Inculcating the practice of reflection among medical students
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: September 2021

Over the years, different regulatory and professional organizations have emphasized the need for medical students to reflect upon their daily learning or clinical interactions to ensure deep learning. An extensive search of all materials related to the topic was carried out in the PubMed search engine, and a total of seven articles were selected for the review. However, we must admit that the practice of reflection is not easy to inculcate, and amid the packed curriculum, it becomes the responsibility of the medical teachers to create opportunities for the students to reflect upon on a regular basis. The best approach for encouraging reflection by medical students will be to not make reflection as an add-on activity, but as a strategy which will enhance meaningful learning and improvement in daily clinical interactions. In conclusion, reflection is an important approach to ensure deep learning among medical students. However, it is the responsibility of all teachers to first teach them about reflection and then use the tool of reflection for the betterment of the students in the entire training period.
Understanding the significance of patient safety and designing a novel curriculum using Kern's six-step approach
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: September 2021

The branch of medicine and provision of clinical care is quite complex and challenging owing to the involvement of a number of stakeholders and parameters. The available global estimates suggest that the incidence of adverse events is one the rise and it has been identified as one among the 10 most frequent reasons for death and disability worldwide. Considering that significant developments have been made in modern medicine, it is quite unacceptable. The ideal and cost-effective approach that is expected to make it as a long-term behavior among the future generation of doctors, is by exposing the undergraduate medical students to patient safety curriculum during their training period. At present, the need of the hour is to design a comprehensive patient safety curriculum and as it is a novel topic, we can adopt Kern's six-step approach for the same. In conclusion, patient safety is an integral aspect of clinical medicine and being a health care professional, it is our primary responsibility to not only deliver quality assured care but also take care of patient safety. Thus, it is high time that steps are taken at the medical college level to design a formal patient safety curriculum and then implement the same in collaboration with the Curriculum Committee and the Medical Education Unit.
A survey of out patient department prescriptions of selected departments of a tertiary care hospital on treatment practices of infections
Authors: Shyam Sharan , Jaiswal Sanjay , Jayabalan Arun , Shergill SPS
Published: September 2021

Introduction:

India is the largest consumer of antibiotics in the world. Antimicrobial agents (AMA) are also the most misused and excessively prescribed therapeutic agents.

Objectives:

A survey of output patient department (OPD) prescription chits of a tertiary care government hospital was carried out to describe the current treatment practices in the management of infections.

Subjects and Methods:

Thousand and five hundred OPD prescriptions were analyzed for the prevalence of antimicrobials prescribed by each specialist OPD and the systemic infections which were treated by using these AMA. The data of antibiotic susceptibility tests for the year 2018 were obtained for the analysis on current treatment practices of hospital infections.

Results:

About 24.4% of all 1500 OPD prescriptions encountered from the seven departments of the hospital contained an antibacterial. The highest proportion of AMA was seen in the dental OPD (66.6%) followed by ENT and surgical OPD (36.8% and 36%, respectively) and the least AMA were prescribed in gynecology and obstetrical OPD (11%). Out of the 367 AMA prescriptions, 92 prescriptions had 2 or more antibacterials. About 54.7% of these AMA prescribed were generic oral drugs and only two prescription counts were of injectable AMA. 62% of the AMA prescriptions were for the duration of use between 5 and 10 days. 53.4% of the AMA prescription counts belonged to the ACCESS group of antibiotics, 44.1% to the WATCH group and 2.5% to the RESERVE group as classified by WHO.

Conclusions:

The present study emphasizes the need to re-formulate local guidelines of antimicrobial use in OPD patients based on hospital antibiotic susceptibility tests.
Did the fear of contagion deter patients from reporting serious conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown? A report from South India
Authors: Prasanth YM , Kumar PP , Rao SM , Ganaraja B
Published: September 2021

Context:

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-19 has had a devastating effect on the common man's life. Aim: To study whether the fear of contracting covid19 infection deter the patients from seeking medical help?

Setting and Design:

Retrospective study from hospital data were obtained from the medical record departments of four major hospitals. Materials and methods: Number of admissions for eight serious illnesses in the month of April in 2020 compared to 3 preceding years.

Statistical analysis:

The data were analyzed by applying multiple measures ANOVA and descriptive statistics.

Results:

There was a significant decrease in the number of admissions in each of the eight listed illnesses during April 2020 compared to the same period in the previous 3 years. There was no significant change in the number of deaths reported in the district during this period, as suggested by the government data.

Conclusion:

From the observed results, it is evident that there was a marked decline in the hospitalization for serious illnesses during the lockdown period in south India. This result is in agreement with the data from similar studies, published from hospitals worldwide.
Justifying the inclusion of audience response system for the delivery of medical education
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: September 2021

Didactic lectures have been acknowledged as one of the most important aspects of teaching-learning in the field of medical education. In general, a traditional didactic lecture tends to facilitate passive learning, wherein the students just receive the information provided by the teacher, in the absence of any sort of active engagement. An extensive search of all materials related to the topic was carried out in the PubMed search engine and a total of four studies similar to the current study objectives were selected based on the suitability with the current review objectives. The audience response system has been looked upon as a tool to improve the overall effectiveness of the didactic lectures in classroom settings. In this method, the teacher can engage the large group of medical students by including questions during the session and thereby improve the amount of interaction. In conclusion, the audience response system is an effective approach to improve the overall learning in and facilitates the transition from passive to active learning in the medical college set up. Moreover, the system encourages collaboration between teacher and student and active engagement of students, which makes it extremely useful.
Kindler syndrome
Authors: Kandikatla Shweta Satyanarayan , Someshwar Shylaja , Ahire Pranjal
Published: September 2021

Kindler syndrome is a very rare genodermatosis with an autosomal recessive pattern and about 250 cases have been reported worldwide. The mutant gene is Fermitin family homolog 1 gene (KIND1), located on chromosome 20p12.3, which encodes for focal adhesion protein “Fermitin family homologue 1 protein” or Kindlin-1. It is characterized clinically by acral blistering in infancy, photosensitivity improving with age, progressive poikiloderma, cutaneous atrophy, dental problems, and various forms of mucosal involvement. Histologically, it is characterized by flattened and atrophic epidermis, edematous dermoepidermal junction, vacuolar degeneration of basal cells, pigmentary incontinence, and sparse perivascular lymphocytic infiltrate. Here, we report a case with classic skin manifestations in a 13-year-old female without photosensitivity.
Use of conventional DJ stent and single loop stent with string after ureterorenoscopic lithotripsy
Authors: Sharma Sonu , Sabale Vilas , Mulay Abhirudra , Mhaske Sunil , Satav Vikram , Nihar Surya
Published: September 2021

Context:

Use of conventional double j stent with string and single loop stent with string after ureterorenoscopy.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to compare the use of both types of stents using the Ureteral Symptom Score Questionnaire (USSQ) and assess proximal migration.

Settings and Design:

This was a single institute study.

Subjects and Methods:

A total of 96 female patients with unilateral ureteric stones were enrolled. Patients underwent ureterorenoscopic lithotripsy, conventional double J (DJ) stent with string and single loop stent with string was placed. Before stent removal at 7–10 days, they were evaluated with X-ray kidney ureter bladder for proximal migration and USSQ for stent-related complaints.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data were analyzed using Chi-square and Student's t-test.

Results:

In our study, Group A (DJ loop with string) had 51 patients and Group B (single J loop with string) had 47 patients. The mean stone size in group A was 10.06 mm and Group B was 9.7 mm. Both groups had one case each of early stent expulsion and none had proximal migration of the stent. Group A had two cases of urinary tract infection and Group B had one case which resolved on antibiotics. Evaluating the USSQ questionnaire in both groups, urinary symptoms such as urgency (P = 0.03), dysuria (P = 0.02), interference with life (P = 0.01), and quality impact overall (P = 0.016) were statistically significant. Evaluating pain, sleep disturbance (P = 0.04), pain at voiding (P = 0.03), and flank pain during voiding (P = 0.018) was statistically significant. In general health, difficulty with heavyweight physical activity (P = 0.02), feeling calm (P = 0.16), social life enjoyment (P = 0.26), and need for extra help (P = 0.008) was significant. In sexual matters, 13 (28%) patients in Group B had no active sex (conscious) and 6 (12%) patients had stopped intercourse due to stent-related symptoms, whereas in Group A, it was 10 (20%) and 2 (4%) patients, respectively.

Conclusions:

The use of a single J stent with string is an effective method, has lesser complication, and is easier to remove.
Laparoscopy training status in India and a review of the current resident skill standards
Authors: Prasad T. Krishna , Sood Rajeev , Srivastava Aneesh , Krishnamoorthy Venkatesh , Gupta Manu , Rizvi Jamal S. , Vaddi Surya Praksah , Javali Tarun
Published: September 2021

Context:

The aim was to identify the current training standard of laparoscopy skills among the urology residents.

Aims:

This paper presents the residents’ subjective perception of their laparoscopy skills and evidence of an objective assessment of their actual skills.

Settings and Design:

An online survey was mailed, and completed by urology residents in training. The residents’ perception of laparoscopy training received, exposure to laparoscopy procedures, and training facilities were queried. The assessment was done on the skill levels of the residents presenting at an annual training program.

Subjects and Methods:

103 residents responded to the online survey and 115 residents were assessed at the training program.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Discrete data were compared using the t-test to test for significance of the means; P < 0.05 was considered significant. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to obtain the relationship between variables.

Results:

An overwhelming 91% rated their laparoscopy skill as just “satisfactory” or worse, and 60% did not have any training facilities in their department. 66% continue to be “assistants only” in conventional laparoscopy surgeries. Assessment of basic laparoscopy skills in the dry lab revealed 92% of residents having poor laparoscopy skills; similar to the subjective opinion in the survey. Only 6% (n = 5) of the residents showed a good or better skill score in the dry lab; similar to the survey.

Conclusions:

Based on the survey, a large number of residents have a poor opinion of their own laparoscopy skills, and the training facilities available to them. The data objectively prove the self-assessment of the residents on their laparoscopy skill level.
Traumatic testicular torsion
Authors: Ogbetere Friday Emeakpor
Published: September 2021

Blunt scrotal trauma results in different forms of injuries such as hematoma, rupture of the testis, and testicular torsion. The diagnosis of trauma-induced testicular torsion in patients with blunt scrotal trauma requires a high index of suspicion. As early diagnosis and management of traumatic testicular torsion obviate testicular losses, an urgent testicular scan is necessary in cases of suspected traumatic torsion, and if not readily available or indeterminate, scrotal exploration is promptly indicated. Reported herein is a case of traumatic testicular torsion which was managed as a straightforward blunt scrotal trauma in a private health facility. He eventually had an orchidectomy when he presented to us 4 months later on account of a marked reduction in testicular volume. This case report reiterates the need to look beyond the obvious in patients with blunt scrotal trauma and the necessity of testicular scan and scrotal exploration in testicular salvage in suspected trauma-induced testicular torsion.
Primary clear cell adenocarcinoma of prostate
Authors: Chang Che-Wei , Yin Hsin-Ling , Li Ching-Chia
Published: September 2021

Clear cell adenocarcinoma (CCA) rarely occurs in men, not to mention in prostate. We reported a 44-year-old male patient who suffered from recurrent dysuria and frequency for 6 months. Transurethral resection of the prostate was performed to relieve bladder outlet obstruction. However, CCA of the prostate was confirmed through pathological examination. A thorough checkup was performed to distinguish it from metastatic clear cell carcinoma from other primary origins. Currently, no consensus for the treatment of CCA of the prostate has been reached. After discussing with the patient, he decided to receive immunotherapy with pembrolizumab. Herein, we reported this rare case of CCA in the prostate.
Linitis plastica of the rectum secondary to metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Khor Vincent , Khairul-Asri Mohd Ghani , Fahmy Omar , Hamid Suzana Ab , Lee Christopher Kheng Siang
Published: September 2021

Linitis plastica is a rare tumor with poor prognosis. It is a circumferentially infiltrating intramural tumor which can result in rigid, nondistensible thickening of the affected organ. It most commonly affects the stomach, followed by the rectum, and can be due to primary or secondary cancer. Secondary rectal linitis plastica (RLP) caused by metastatic cancers has been reported from the stomach, breast, gallbladder, urinary bladder, and very rarely, the prostate, with only <5 reported cases in the literature. We report the case of a 66-year-old man who presented with altered bowel habit and loss of weight, with elevated prostate-specific antigen of 180.6 ng/mL. Sigmoidoscopy showed thickened rectal mucosa, and biopsy was negative for malignancy. Magnetic resonance imaging showed circumferential wall thickening, “target sign” appearance suggestive of RLP, PIRADS 5 lesion with extraprostatic extension, infiltrating bilateral seminal vesicles, and right neurovascular bundle. Repeat colonoscopy was performed under anesthesia, and deeper biopsy revealed poorly differentiated metastatic prostate adenocarcinoma. This case report highlights the atypical presentation of metastatic prostate cancer secondary to RLP, the rarity of this condition, and emphasizes the importance of deeper biopsy in RLP due to disease involvement predominantly in the submucosa and muscularis propria layers.
Gestione assicurativa dei rischi in pioppicoltura
Authors: Coaloa Domenico
Published: September 2021

The specialized cultivation of poplar trees is exposed during its multi-year cycle of cultivation to numerous risks of meteoric and biotic origin, such as wind, frost and plant diseases that cause losses and negatively affect the profitability of the plantation. The risks associated with the instability of the wood market are also important. The aim of the research is to examine the insurance system in poplar cultivation with an assessment of farmers’ propensity towards insurance policies for the protection from the many risks involved in the cultivation. Based on the information received from poplar growers and insurance companies, the current system of income support guarantees is examined. Fundamental are the tools concerning risk management through insurance policies. Public financial support makes the insurance system more attractive by lowering the costs for the growers, but unfortunately there are still limits and restrictive conditions. The new Common Agricultural Policy post-2020 bodes well for building a greater risk management capacity.
Estrategias comunicativas en Twitter y portales institucionales durante la segunda ola de Covid-19: análisis de los gobiernos de Alemania, España, Portugal y Reino Unido
Authors: Rivas-de-Roca Rubén , García-Gordillo Mar , Rojas-Torrijos José Luis
Published: September 2021

Introducción: Las restricciones sociales impuestas por la pandemia de Covid-19 acentuaron el rol de las tecnologías como herramientas de interacción, pero también la función de las mismas en la comunicación institucional desarrollada por los gobiernos para explicar sus decisiones políticas ante una situación de crisis. Metodología: Esta investigación analiza comparativamente algunas de las estrategias comunicativas de los gobiernos de Alemania, España, Portugal y Reino Unido. Para ello se estudian los temas y objetivos de sus líderes o portavoces en Twitter: Steffen Seibert como representante de Merkel (Alemania), Pedro Sánchez (España), António Costa (Portugal) y Boris Johnson (Reino Unido). Asimismo, se analizan los mensajes en las webs oficiales de los gobiernos (Bundesregierung, La Moncloa, República Portuguesa y GOV.UK). Resultados: Se advierte una infrautilización de las potencialidades interactivas. Además, los temas y objetivos preferentes se repiten en Twitter y los portales institucionales, centrándose en el anuncio y evaluación de cuestiones sanitarias y económicas, si bien los mensajes en la red social abordan una mayor pluralidad de asuntos que no coindicen con los más retuiteados. Discusión: Las similitudes y divergencias halladas plantean una reflexión sobre el papel de las culturas políticas en la intervención comunicativa de los gobiernos, así como acerca de la necesidad de responder a los intereses de la audiencia. Conclusiones: La comunicación gubernamental se ha dirigido a las cuestiones más inmediatas de la pandemia, como la sanidad y la economía, desarrollando una agenda más amplia en Twitter que, en cambio, no se corresponde con los intereses observados entre el público.
Descriptive Capability of Datasets as Proxy of Sea Water Temperature in Coastal Systems: An Evaluation from the Aegean Sea
Authors: Bengil Fethi , Mavruk Sinan , Kızılkaya Zafer , Bengil Elizabeth G. T. , Alan Vahit , Kızılkaya İnci Tüney
Published: September 2021

Scientific and technological progresses have introduced diverse data sources for seawater temperature over broad temporal and spatial ranges. Here, we investigated the performance of satellite and model-based seawater temperature data for different temporal composites and depths. We applied an in-situ temperature time-series obtained in a coastal bottom in the Aegean Sea over three years, as the reference. Both datasets showed largely significant relationships based on cross-correlation analyses and presented descriptive properties of the in-situ conditions at corresponding depths. Based on the results of analyses, the modeling datasets presented more reliable results and representations of in-situ conditions than the datasets obtained from satellite for the coastal region. However, the datasets obtained from the satellite also provided reliable data for all time frames investigated, particularly in the mixed surface layer. Monthly datasets were more effective in providing descriptive values in long term studies. This is the first detailed study to explore the descriptive capacities of modeling for water temperature in coastal environments. According to the results, the selection of a dataset as a proxy for seawater temperature requires careful consideration. The present study provides an extensive baseline for evaluating the suitability of the application of specific datasets as proxies in coastal ecosystems.
Awareness and Use of Cloud Computing: Its Implications in Selected Academic Libraries in Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Njoku Lazarus C. , Ken-Agbiriogu Eucharia
Published: September 2021

The study investigated awareness and use of cloud computing; its implications by libraries in selected academic libraries in Imo State, Nigeria. Four research questions were asked and answered. Also, three hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05 significance level. Survey research design was adopted. The total population of the study was 53 librarians, comprising professional staff of the library in Imo State University, Owerri, Federal Polytechnic, Nekede and Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, Owerri. The sample size was the entire population; hence the census enumeration sampling technique was employed. Rating scale was used for data collection. Data collected were presented in tables and column charts, and analyzed using mean, standard deviation. Testing of hypotheses was done using F-ratio (ANOVA) at the significance level of 0.05. Findings reveal that there is certain level of awareness on cloud computing technologies and models in the libraries studied. It was also discovered that cloud computing technology were used by libraries in the institutions studied, and economy of resource cost effectiveness and file sharing are some of the major positive implications of librarians adoption cloud computing technologies. However security and privacy, multiple taxation were also identified as major negative implications of cloud computing adoption by the librarians in discharging their functions in the libraries. Based on these findings, recommendations were made.
Utilization of Information and Communication Technology Based Information Resources in Library User Education Programmes: A Study of Colleges of Education in South-South, Nigeria
Authors: Okonoko Vera Ngozi , Eruvwe Ufuoma
Published: September 2021

The study investigated utilization of information and communication technology-based information resources in library user education programmes in South-South Nigeria. Four research questions and one hypothesis guided the study. Descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprised 1022 respondents which consist of 62 staff and 960 library users. The instrument for data collection was questionnaire of a four-point rating scale and observation checklist. Tools used for data analysis of research questions were frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation; t-test was used to test the null hypothesis at selected probability of 0.05 level significance. The findings revealed that the ICT facilities available are limited for effective utilization of ICT-based information resources in library user education programmes. The study reveals that ICT-based resources listed in the table were utilized to high extent in South-South colleges of education libraries for user education programmes. It also shows that poor funding was the major challenge of utilization of ICT-based resources for user education programmes in colleges of education libraries under study.
Mediating Role of Empowerment on Green Human Resource Management Practices and Employee Retention in the Nigerian Hotel Industry
Authors: Emmanuel Adeyefa , Mansor Zuriana , Rasdi Roziah Binti , Abdullah Abdul , Hassan Dalowar
Published: September 2021

The aim of this paper was to provide a better understanding of the adoption of GHRM mechanisms to improve employee retention in Nigerian hotels. Specifically, to help managers improve employee retention, as this topic has largely been neglected by researchers studying management in the hotel sector in Nigeria. Therefore, the present study assesses HRM strategies based on responses to 430 structured questionnaires. Data were coded in SPSS23 and analysed using PLS-SEM 3.0. The results show that green personal values (GPV), green recruitment and selection, green training and development, and employee empowerment have positive and significant effects on employee retention. Also, employee empowerment mediates the effects of all other aforementioned variables, except GTD, on employee retention. A notable contribution of this study is the introduction of GPV as an imperative variable that can enhance employee retention in the hotel sector. Managers are encouraged to apply the green HRM strategies discussed in this study, which can be achieved through productive organisational and national human resource development programs. This study emphasises the importance of giving clear and helpful information to organisations to promote sustainable practices in hotels. As such, green human resource management (GHRM) strategies have recently attracted considerable attention from academics and practitioners worldwide as potential methods for enhancing employee commitment.
Profiling Holiday Home Owners in Namibia
Authors: Haufiku-Makhubela Petrina , Hermann Uwe , Sifolo Portia
Published: September 2021

Holiday homes have been part of the tourism industry over a period of years, but there is little documented research regarding holiday home ownership, its value and impact in Namibia, therefore, the study is significant to this topic. The main aim behind this research study is to profile holiday homeowners and identify their motivation for purchasing these homes in Namibia. The results of the study focus on exploratory factor analysis which outlines four motivational factors and the correlation results to determine the demographic and psychological characteristics motivating the ownership of holiday homes. The study concluded that most holiday homes are owned by high income earners, who purchased these homes in coastal towns for the purpose of investment, income generation and recreation. The study thus recommends that these results be made available to policy planners and researchers in the local authorities and other stakeholders, in order to assist with the articulation of policies and the creation of a framework to monitor the sustainable growth of holiday home ownership that benefits the community.
Eskişehirli Bir Türkü Derlemecisi: Muammer Uludemir
Authors: ÜLKER Gökhan
Published: September 2021

Anadolu topraklarının zengin kültürel değerlerinin günümüze kadar gelmesi halk sanatları anlamında çok önemlidir. Geleneksel sanatların yaşayabilmesi, genç nesillere aktarılması, devlet politikası haline gelmiş derleme ve toplama çalışmaları dışında, bu işe gönül vermiş amatör derlemeciler tarafından da yapılmıştır. Bu anlamda Türkiye Cumhuriyeti Kültür ve Turizm Bakanlığı ve Türkiye Radyo Televizyon Kurumu (TRT) dışında kendini folklorik malzemenin toplanması veya derleme çalışmalarının yapılmasına adayan kişiler bulunmaktadır. Genellikle amatör ruh ve çalışma yöntemleri ile yapılan çalışmalar, birçok yöreye ait dansların, müziklerin, geleneksel giyim kuşam gibi sanatsal ögelerin günümüze kadar gelmesine, bilinmesine, düzenlenip alanda kullanılmasına katkıda bulunmuştur. Bu kişilerin yaptığı çalışmalar sayesinde devletin ulaşamadığı veya fırsat bulamadığı kırsal bölgelere ulaşılmış ve buralarda derlemeler yapılmıştır. Bu tür derlemecilerin özellikle Türk halk müziği alanına katkıları yadsınamaz. Günümüzde halen bu tarz çalışmaların olduğu bilinmektedir. Bu çalışmada özellikle Eskişehir ve köylerinde işi gereği dolaşan, bu seyahatleri sırasında da müzik yeteneğini kullanarak derlemeler yapan, bu derlemelerin büyük bir kısmını TRT’ye onaylatan, kendi derlemelerinden oluşan basılı eserler sunan derlemeci Muammer Uludemir incelenmiştir.
Effect of Wheat Straw Biochar on Thermophysical Properties of Loessial Soil
Authors: Zhao B. W. , Zhao Y. , Liu H. , Li Y. Q. , Duan K. X. , Zhang X.
Published: September 2021

Soil thermophysical properties are the key factors affecting the internal heat balance of soil. In this paper, biochars (BC300, BC500 and BC700) were produced with wheat straw at the temperatures of 300, 500 and 700°, respectively. The effects of biochar amendment at the rates of 0%, 1%, 3%, and 5% on the thermophysical properties (thermal conductivity, heat capacity, and thermal diffusivity) of a loessial soil were investigated with and without water content respectively. Although the bulk density of soil significantly decreased with biochar amendment, due to enhancing soil porosity and organic matter content, the thermophysical properties of soil did not change largely with biochar amendment rate and pyrolysis temperature. Water content exhibited significant effects on the thermophysical properties of soils added with biochars, where the thermal conductivity and heat capacity of soil were linearly proportional to water content, the thermal diffusivity initially increased and then decreased with the increase of water content. In the meanwhile, there was no significant correlation between the biochar amendment rate or pyrolysis temperature and thermophysical properties. The results show that water content should be mainly concerned as a factor when the internal heat balance of loess soil is evaluated, even though the soil is amended with biochar.
Chemical Composition and Nutritional Value of Paddy Straw Milky Mushroom (Calocybe indica)
Authors: Chelladurai G. , Yadav T.K. , Pathak R.K.
Published: September 2021

The edible milky mushroom is the most widely cultivated mushroom in tropical and sub-tropical regions. Studies were conducted on the cultivation and nutritional analysis of this mushroom. The pure culture of Calocybe indica was carried out in the laboratory. The culture was maintained on potato dextrose agar slant and sub-cultured at a regular monthly interval to sustain their fruiting vigor. The above stock culture was used in studies. Wheat grain spawn of C. indica was prepared in glass bottles. The filled paddy grain spawn of C. indica was used at 6% level to the wet weight of the substrate and the beds were spawned. After harvest, the mushrooms were dried at 40°C under the hot air oven to make it powered for further analysis. The collected fresh mushrooms were dried in shade and coarse powder was analyzed for nutrients namely moisture, crude protein, lipid, ash, crude fiber, and minerals. It shows the dominant compounds of protein, fiber, and carbohydrate and the contents are 14.11%, 8.30% and 5.62% respectively. Lipid, ash, ether extract and pH contents are 4.06%, 7.04%, 3.15% and 5.4% respectively. The carbon and nitrogen contents are 33.60% and 3.56% respectively. In the estimation of saturated fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids present in C. indica, totally, 17 fatty acids were recorded. In the estimation of essential and non-essential amino acids present in C. indica, totally, 15 amino acids were recorded. In the estimation of minerals composition present in C. indica, it was recorded that the species had a good resource of mineral composition. Totally, 6 macro minerals and 8 micro minerals were recorded. This investigation may provide that the paddy straw substrates can be recommended for the commercial cultivation of C. indica to obtain highly nutritious mushrooms.
Study on Spatiotemporal Evolution Characteristics of Regional Annual Precipitation
Authors: Zhang Xianqi , Zheng Zhiwen , Ouyang Rulin
Published: September 2021

The study of the temporal and spatial evolution of precipitation is of great importance for the efficient use of water resources. This paper examines the long series of precipitation in Henan province from 1959-2018. Innovative Trend Analysis (ITA) method and Mann-Kendall (MK) test were used to analyze the characteristics of precipitation trend changes. Mann-Kendall (MK) mutation test and the sliding T method were used to study the jump features of precipitation. Wavelet analysis of the cyclical characteristics of precipitation. The results show that the spatial distribution of precipitation in Henan Province is uneven, with a gradual increase from north to south. The precipitation of northern, central and southern regions showed a downward trend, while that of western regions showed an upward trend. Both the northern and southern regions experienced jump features in precipitation around 1975 and 2008, while the western region experienced jump features around 1962 and 1980, and the central region experienced jump features around 1980; There are 3.5 different scales of “abundance and depletion” in the northern, western and southern regions, with a first principal cycle of 28a, and 5.5 different scales of “abundance and depletion” in the central region, with a first principal cycle of 17a.