bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of a scale of attention to diversity for university teachers
Authors: Ramos Santana Genoveva , Pérez Carbonell Amparo , Chiva Sanchis Inmaculada , Moral Mora Ana María
Published: May 2021

It is the job of universities to face the greatest challenges of highereducation in the twenty-first century. Creating policies and practices to attendto diversity is part of their social responsibility. Validated instruments areessential to find out teachers’ attitudes and practices in education regardingattention to diversity. This paper aims to present the process of constructionand validation of the Scale of Beliefs, Attitudes and Practices of Attentionto Diversity for University Teachers (CAPA-PU) created for this purpose. Asurvey method with a non-experimental design was applied to a sample of 428teachers from various Spanish universities. To validate this scale, analysis ofthe content and construct preceded the selected items in the ad hoc instrumentin order to reach the representativeness of the construct. A review of theliterature on attention to diversity, especially instrument design, informedof the definition of the construct and its dimensions, representativeness,relevance, comprehension, ambiguity and clarity. In addition, reliable internalconsistency and exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis showed a fittedmodel and a five-factor structure: (1) Institutional Diversity; (2) Research,Training and Teaching Focused on Diversity; (3) Teaching and LearningPractices; (4) University Administrators’ Commitment; (5) Conception ofDiversity. In conclusion, it is evident that there is: a) current relevance of theassumed construct of attention to diversity focused on actions that providelearning opportunities to the most disadvantaged groups; and b) the need tooffer a scale such as the one created in order to attend to the processes ofeducational inclusion in Spanish universities.
Aulas afectivas e inclusivas y bienestar adolescente: una revisión sistemática
Authors: Iglesias-Díaz Patricia , Romero-Pérez Clara
Published: May 2021

El ambiente de aula percibido por los estudiantes incide de forma significativa en su aprendizaje y desarrollo de la personalidad. El profesorado puede contribuir a promover el bienestar adolescente y la inclusión a través del ambiente de aula. Los estudios sobre clima de aula, bienestar adolescente e inclusión en educación secundaria son minoritarios en comparación con los existentes en educación infantil y primaria. En este contexto, los objetivos de este trabajo son los siguientes: (a) analizar las relaciones entre un clima de aula afectivo e inclusivo con el bienestar adolescente; (b) sistematizar las competencias docentes más apropiadas para dinamizar la calidad afectiva e inclusiva del ambiente de aula en educación secundaria.            Para responder a los objetivos del estudio, se ha llevado a cabo una revisión sistemática de la literatura y se han seguido las directrices marcadas en la declaración PRISMA para revisiones sistemáticas científicas. Para la revisión metodológica, se evaluaron los artículos con la herramienta JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research. Se consultaron las bases de datos ERIC y Web of Science. El período de búsqueda comprendió desde 2016 a 2020.            La revisión se realizó sobre la base de 32 estudios seleccionados. Los resultados obtenidos ofrecen evidencias contrastadas del impacto de un ambiente afectivo e inclusivo de aula en el bienestar adolescente de educación secundaria. Asimismo, se demuestra el papel destacado del profesorado en la promoción de un ambiente amigable e integrador de aula y la necesidad de formación en competencias emocionales, interpersonales e interculturales. Se concluye que un clima de aula afectivo e inclusivo promueve no solo un desarrollo óptimo de la personalidad en la etapa de la adolescencia, sino que también impulsa la socialización en los valores de aprecio y respeto a la diversidad.
Composite Sail Batten Design
Authors: Sery Audrey , Charles Jean Paul
Published: May 2021

This paper relates the results of our investigations to improve the design of "full-length" composite battens. The paper starts by describing the technologies used to manufacture battens and the role they play in sail equilibrium. A method is then proposed to help in the design of battens. It is a blend of theory and experiment that focuses on the strength of the battens. When a batten is close to rupture, it is subject to large rotations and must therefore be modeled by non-linear computations of the slender beam type. In addition, we have calculated the stress distribution in a laminated composite. As for the tricky problem of the maximum allowable stresses for composite materials, we have shown that a specific characterization test is necessary. With a series of examples, we show that stronger battens can be developed through selection of the cross-sectional areas and the materials.
Student Research Projects for the New Navy 44 Sail Training Craft
Authors: Miller Paul H.
Published: May 2021

Offshore-capable sail training craft (STC) specifically designed and built for the United States Naval Academy (USNA) have been a cornerstone of its seamanship training program since 1939. Currently the fourth generation of these craft is under development and this paper summarizes research projects performed by eight midshipmen in the areas of parametric design criteria, structures, appendage development and analytical tool evaluation. While the results are oriented toward the new sail training craft, they are general enough to apply to any medium-sized offshore sailing vessel.
Identifying Key Safety Culture Factors for the Offshore Industry
Authors: Lou Ning , Wari Ezra , Curry James , McSweeney Kevin , Curtis Rick , Craig Brian , Hussain Muhammad Muzamil , Zhu Weihang
Published: May 2021

This research identifies key factors, or safety culture categories, that can be used to help describe the safety culture for the offshore oil and gas industry and develop a comprehensive offshore safety culture assessment toolkit for use by the US Gulf of Mexico (GoM) owners and operators. Detailed questionnaires from selected safety culture frameworks of different industries were collected and analyzed to identify important safety culture factors and key questions for assessment. Safety frameworks from different associations were investigated, including the Center for Offshore Safety (COS), Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The safety culture factors of each of these frameworks were generalized and analyzed. The frequency of the safety culture factors in each framework was analyzed to explore commonality. The literature review and analysis identified a list of common factors among safety culture frameworks.
Historiske og teoretiske baggrunde for COVID-19-pandemiens påvirkning af den danske befolkning
Authors: Sørensen Jesper F. , Baunvig Katrine F. , Pedersen Heidi Frølund , Jacobsen Brian Arly , Kühle Lene , Andersen Peter B.
Published: May 2021

Denne artikel præsenterer udsnit af den historiske og teoretiske baggrund for undersøgelsen af COVID-19 pandemiens indvirkning på danskernes religiøsitet. Vi har lagt vægt på fire nedlagspunkter, der hver på sin måde bidrager til at tegne et billede af den religions- og kulturhistoriske samt teoretiske kontekst. Først søger vi at indplacerer forestillingen om døden i forhold til en bred religions- og kulturhistorisk horisont. Fra den kristne traditions forankring i en begravelses- og senere helgenkult til udgrænsningen af begravelser fra kirkens rum; og den tidsvarende afmatning i religiøse efterlivsforestillingers kraft i moderne tid. Dette leder til en diskussion af to tidligere cases: Koleraen i 1853 og Den Spanske Syge i 1918-20, hvor epidemiens udbrud sættes i relation til forskellige reaktioner fra den Danske Folkekirke. Hernæst udvides vores spørgehorisont til de religionsvidenskabelige teorier om forholdet mellem religion, død og lidelse. Gennem en kort introduktion til centrale skikkelse i forskningshistoriens syn på særligt dødens rolle i fremkomsten af og opretholdelsen af religion, trækkes linjer frem mod moderne sociologiske og psykologiske teorier, der hver på sin måde har bidraget til undersøgelsens teoretiske fundament. Med henblik på at indfange religionens handlingsdimension diskuteres kort forskellige ritualteoriers relevans, før vi afslutningsvis opstiller de i alt 16 forskningsspørgsmål, der har informeret udarbejdelsen af den konkret spørgeskemaundersøgelse.
Trauma Psycho Social Support Plus® and EMDR therapy for children and adolescents in a post-conflict setting
Authors: Hofmann Frank , Goihl Mirjam , Hase Michael , Hase Adrian
Published: May 2021

Abstract: Being confronted with the alarming situation in countries like Iraq and Syria – areas shaped by war, of people having lost their homes and suffering from horrible experiences - TraumaAid has designed and conducted a training program, especially for health workers in refugee camps.

Clearly the intervention would have to adjust to specific circumstances; it would need a method adapted to another language and culture, an approach that could be used in a not-yet-secure situation with an undetermined number of sessions with every client.

Resilience is an important aspect enabling people who suffered from different traumata to resume an everyday life again. Resource installation is a basic technique in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which intensifies an integral awareness of individual resources for the client. As easy as this method may seem, a careful priming for its actual use is required. A profound understanding of how a traumatic experience affects body, thoughts and emotions is needed as background knowledge. Moreover qualified skills concerning the interaction with children are needed to be able to establish a trustful relationship in the first place.

The following article describes a pilot project in Kurdistan / Northern Iraq - a training for psychologists, social workers and other mental health professionals working in different refugee camps. The aim was to provide the staff members with background knowledge of the dynamics of traumatization and teach them how to use resource installation in a responsible way to work with children, adolescents and their parents.
Evolving Entrepreneurial Identities: An Exploratory Study
Authors:   , Mendoza Felicity Jane
Published: May 2021

Entrepreneurship is a diverse and complex phenomenon. However, despite substantial developments in the field, dominant approaches to entrepreneurship research are criticised for failing to question taken-for-granted assumptions about both the entrepreneurial actor and the process of entrepreneurship. This has resulted in a narrow view of entrepreneurship which fails to reflect the heterogeneity of the phenomenon and the individuals who undertake it. Through an exploration of the experiences of nascent entrepreneurs, the study builds upon the extant entrepreneurship literature by addressing the misalignment between entrepreneurship research and observations of entrepreneurship. The study aims to gain insights into the phenomenon of nascent entrepreneurship from the perspectives of the individuals who enact it. The study uses interpretative phenomenological analysis to gain an understanding of what it means to be an entrepreneur. The research draws upon data captured from 21 in-depth interviews with nascent entrepreneurs to develop three key themes which are discussed in relation to the extant entrepreneurship literature: entrepreneurial motivations and identity; entrepreneurial identity formation and perseverance; identity crafting, reconciliation and conflict. The findings contribute to theoretical understandings within the broader entrepreneurship literature by challenging the stereotypical view of the economically motivated lone wolf entrepreneur and presenting a nuanced picture of entrepreneurship as a means of identity fulfilment. The study contributes to the entrepreneurial identity literature by providing an empirical basis for dynamic entrepreneurial identity formation through action (enactment of the entrepreneurial role), interaction (with networks and start-up communities) and reflection. This challenges conceptualisations of both static and discursively imposed entrepreneurial identities. The findings present a nuanced illustration of entrepreneurial identity formation by emphasising the interrelationships between entrepreneurial passion, self-efficacy and identity. The study contributes to the entrepreneurial motivations literature by showing the motivational influence of non-entrepreneurial identities, non-entrepreneurial passions and possible future selves. The findings contribute to the v entrepreneurial identity literature by demonstrating the importance of entrepreneurial identity formation and reconciliation with multiple personal and socially ascribed identities in order to commit to the entrepreneurial role and persevere with entrepreneurial endeavours. The study has practical and policy implications including the facilitation of opportunities for identity evolution and an emphasis on identity fulfilment and authenticity.
MS-ANet: deep learning for automated multi-label thoracic disease detection and classification
Authors: Xu Jing , Li Hui , Li Xiu
Published: May 2021

The chest X-ray is one of the most common radiological examination types for the diagnosis of chest diseases. Nowadays, the automatic classification technology of radiological images has been widely used in clinical diagnosis and treatment plans. However, each disease has its own different response characteristic receptive field region, which is the main challenge for chest disease classification tasks. Besides, the imbalance of sample data categories further increases the difficulty of tasks. To solve these problems, we propose a new multi-label chest disease image classification scheme based on a multi-scale attention network. In this scheme, multi-scale information is iteratively fused to focus on regions with a high probability of disease, to effectively mine more meaningful information from data. A novel loss function is also designed to improve the rationality of visual perception and multi-label image classification, which forces the consistency of attention regions before and after image transformation. A comprehensive experiment was carried out on the Chest X-Ray14 and CheXpert datasets, separately containing over 100,000 frontal-view and 200,000 front and side view X-ray images with 14 diseases. The AUROC is 0.850 and 0.815 respectively on the two data sets, which achieve the state-of-the-art results, verified the effectiveness of this method in chest X-ray image classification. This study has important practical significance for using AI algorithms to assist radiologists in improving work efficiency and diagnostic accuracy.
An integrative monograph of Carex section Schoenoxiphium (Cyperaceae)
Authors: Luceño Modesto , Villaverde Tamara , Márquez-Corro José Ignacio , Sánchez-Villegas Rogelio , Maguilla Enrique , Escudero Marcial , Jiménez-Mejías Pedro , Sánchez-Villegas Manuel , Miguez Monica , Benítez-Benítez Carmen , Muasya A. Muthama , Martín-Bravo Santiago
Published: May 2021

Carex section Schoenoxiphium (Cariceae, Cyperaceae) is endemic to the Afrotropical biogeographic region and is mainly distributed in southern and eastern Africa, with its center of diversity in eastern South Africa. The taxon was formerly recognized as a distinct genus and has a long history of taxonomic controversy. It has also an important morphological and molecular background in particular dealing with the complexity of its inflorescence and the phylogenetic relationships of its species. We here present a fully updated and integrative monograph of Carex section Schoenoxiphium based on morphological, molecular and cytogenetic data. A total of 1,017 herbarium specimens were examined and the majority of the species were studied in the field. Previous molecular phylogenies based on Sanger-sequencing of four nuclear and plastid DNA regions and RAD-seq were expanded. For the first time, chromosome numbers were obtained, with cytogenetic counts on 44 populations from 15 species and one hybrid. Our taxonomic treatment recognizes 21 species, one of them herein newly described (C. gordon-grayae). Our results agree with previous molecular works that have found five main lineages in Schoenoxiphium. We provide detailed morphological descriptions, distribution maps and analytical drawings of all accepted species in section Schoenoxiphium, an identification key, and a thorough nomenclatural survey including 19 new typifications and one nomen novum.
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the level of depression among health care workers: cross-sectional study
Authors: Al Mutair Abbas , Al Mutairi Alya , Ambani Zainab , Shamsan Abbas , AlMahmoud Sana , Alhumaid Saad
Published: May 2021

Background

The outbreak of the novel Corona Virus Infectious Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread rapidly to many countries leading to thousands of deaths globally. The burden of this pandemic has affected the physical and mental health of the frontline health care workers (HCWs) who are exposed to high risk of infection and psychological stressors.

Aims

The aim is to measure the level of depression among healthcare workers in Saudi Arabia during COVID-19 pandemic to establish interventional strategies.

Method

A descriptive cross-sectional study was used to conduct the current study. The data of this study was recruited between 15 June and 15 July 2020 from healthcare providers who work in both public and private healthcare sectors in Riyadh and Eastern province in Saudi Arabia utilizing a self-administered questionnaire. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board at Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group (IRB Log No. RC20.06.88-2). Data were collected by using The Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale SDS. A total of 900 healthcare providers working in the healthcare setting during COVID-19 pandemic were invited to participate in the study. A total of 650 healthcare providers participated in the study by completing and submitting the survey.

Results

Almost 30% suffered from depression which can be divided into three categories; mild depression (26.2%), moderate/major (2.5%) and severe/extreme (0.8%). The finding shows that the level of depression among respondents at the age range of 31–40 years old was significantly higher than the level of depression among respondents with the age above 50 years old. Non-Saudi healthcare workers experienced more depression than Saudi workers. It also shows how nurses suffered from depression compared to their physician colleagues. Those who did not suffer from sleeping disorder perceived more depression as compared to those who are having sleeping disorder.

Conclusion

It is recommended that health care facilities should implement strategies to reduce the prevalence of mental health problems among healthcare providers and eventually it will improve their performance in provision of safe and high-quality care for patients.
Uni axial compression behaviour of lightweight expanded clay aggregate concrete cylinders confined by perforated steel tube and GFRP wrapping
Authors: Munish Sathia , Ramalingam Vijayalakshmi ,   sri sivasubramania Nadar college of engineering, Srinivasan Ramanagopal , Gopinath Vikram , Ramanareddy Yuvarani , Ramanareddy Yuvalatha
Published: May 2021

Este estudio presenta la investigación experimental llevada a cabo en una columna de hormigón de arcilla expandida confinada por tubo de acero perforado reforzado por láminas de polímero reforzado con fibra de vidrio (GFRP) bajo compresión uniaxial. Se consideraron dos parámetros para la investigación experimental: El diámetro del tubo de acero perforado (5 mm y 10 mm) y el número de capas de envoltura GFRP (1,2, 3 y 4 capas). El comportamiento de compresión de la columna confinada de acero perforado se comparó con la columna de hormigón encerrada de tubo GFRP y la columna de hormigón encerrada de tubo de acero liso. Se discutió el efecto del diámetro de perforación y las capas GFRP, en el patrón de falla, la respuesta de tensión-deformación unitaria y la ductilidad de la columna. A partir de este estudio, se puede concluir que el envoltorio GFRP y el tubo de acero perforado ejercen todo el potencial para mejorar el comportamiento de compresión de la columna de hormigón agregado de arcilla expandida. El modo de falla de la columna de tubo de acero perforado envuelto GFRP era dúctil en la naturaleza. La falla comenzó con la ruptura de las capas de GFRP seguidas de la producción de tubo de acero perforado y finalmente la trituración de hormigón central. El envoltorio GFRP proporciona resistencia a la tracción adicional a la columna y al tubo de acero perforado con su comportamiento plástico elasto mejora el comportamiento previo y posterior al pico de la columna. Se observó un mejor rendimiento de ductilidad en la columna con un mayor número de envoltura y columna GFRP con perforación de 10 mm de diámetro.
Foundation design on problematic soils with high underground water level
Authors:   Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University (Turkey), Ural Nazile , Gergin Abdulselam
Published: May 2021

In this study, the foundation systems of a structure on different soil profiles and different groundwater levels are modeled and analyzed. Several difficulties encounter during the basic design and implementation phases. In particular, the high groundwater level, the load on the soil under the load-bearing capacity, liquefaction causes many problems such as emergence. Within the scope of this study, foundation systems which based on six different soil profiles with a high groundwater level modeled with Plaxis 2D program. Thus, the stress and displacement conditions of the soil about the foundation system as a result of the soil properties and groundwater level changes in problematic soils investigated.
Concrete structures monitoring using ultrasonic tests
Authors:   LEME/UFRGS, Lorenzi Alexandre , Stein Kássio , Reginatto Lucas Alexandre , Pinto da Silva Filho Luiz Carlos
Published: May 2021

Due to the nature of their use, concrete structures are typically subjected to various aggressive actions derived from the loads and the environmental agents, which make the concrete condition change over time. Constant monitoring of structures is a necessary procedure since the preventive detection of problems allows the use of more straightforward and cost-effective methods for evaluation and repair. In order to carry out continuous monitoring of the state condition of concrete elements, there are many tools available. Nondestructive Testing (NDT) applications are a new strategy to monitor the state of concrete structures continually. Recent advancements in NDT technologies are increasingly turning them into attractive and viable strategies to support this type of monitoring and visual inspection. In particular, besides been viable and attractive, ultrasonic tests are a relatively cheap alternative and represent a range of different methods, each one with its benefits, to analyze concrete structures. The Research Group of LEME-UFRGS has developed research and application of NDT methods in general, and ultrasonic based methods in particular, for the last 15 years. The research done by the group demonstrates that these methods can contribute to monitoring deterioration and the quality of concrete structures. The present study demonstrates particular cases involving ultrasonic pulse testing and ultrasonic tomography. The aim was to check for these technique improvements for the analysis of concrete elements. The results highlight the potentialities and shortcomings of each technique.
A seismic-shielding structure based on phononic crystal
Authors:   Institute of Building Structures (China), Wang Julin
Published: May 2021

In this paper, a seismic-shielding structure is presented based on phononic crystal, which is now used to control acoustic waves. An earthquake-proof barrier of seismic waves can be built by filling up the structure under the ground around the building that we want to protect. When the frequency of seismic waves falls into the band gaps of the structure, the seismic wave can be blocked. Herein, the frequency band gaps of the structure is calculated theoretically, and the influence of geometric and material parameters on the frequency band gaps is analyzed.
Effects of plasticizer and antifreeze on concrete at elevated temperatures and different cooling regimes
Authors:   Artvin Çoruh University (Turkey), Bekem Kara İlknur , Arslan Metin ,   Ankara University (Turkey)
Published: May 2021

In recent years, chemical admixtures have become one of the main components of concrete alongside aggregate, cement and water. In this study, the plasticizer and the antifreeze were used. The concrete specimens (the reference concrete without an admixture, concrete with plasticizer, concrete with antifreeze and concrete with plasticizer+antifreeze) were exposed to elevated temperatures (200, 400, 550 and 700 ºC) and cooling via air and water. Water absorption, ultrasonic pulse velocity and compressive strength tests were performed on the specimens. The concrete specimens were also analyzed using X-ray diffraction. The test results indicated that at the temperatures of 550 and 700 ºC and against both of the cooling regimes the plasticizer+antifreeze concrete showed a maximum strength loss. When the air cooled specimens were examined, the lowest strength loss was this obtained for reference concrete at 550 and 700 ºC. The lowest strength loss at these temperatures for the water cooled specimens was observed in the concrete with antifreeze. After being exposed to 700 ºC and the cooling regimes, no portlandite peaks were observed in the concrete mixtures was when they were compared at with the control specimen exposed to 20 ºC in the X-ray diffraction analysis.
Adobe bricks with sugarcane molasses and gypsum to enhance compressive strength in the city Cogua, Colombia
Authors:   Fundacion Unviersitaria Agraria de Colombia - UNIAGRARIA, Rodriguez Cuervo Lady Sofia
Published: May 2021

This paper presents a case study over the effect of adobe bricks stabilized with gypsum, sugarcane molasses and both combinations on improving the compressive strength. These bricks were produced by a hand-made process, which was empirical and had not been analyzed. All samples had the same unit weigh and aspect ratio to obtain accurate data. An extensive series of test were conducted on adobe bricks stabilized with gypsum (5%, 10% and 15%), sugarcane molasses (5%, 10% and 15%), and gypsum in combination of sugarcane molasses (5%, 10% and 15%) which were cured for one month. From the test results it is showed that the grain size distribution was not optimum, which led to samples stabilized with gypsum alone and sugarcane molasses alone did not overcome the sample control strength. The former increased the strength, but the later decreased it. Although, the sample stabilized with 2.5% gypsum and 2.5% sugarcane molasses had the best strength (2.15 MPa). This case study will be useful to better understand the compressive strength on adobe bricks stabilized depends on percentage of clay and sand fraction, moisture content, and percentage of stabilizer, which means that natural stabilizers could be an environmental solution to improve mechanical behavior.
Effects of the incorporation of residue of masonry on the properties of cementitious mortars
Authors:   Universidad del Valle (Colombia), Silva Yimmy Fernando , Lange David A. ,   University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (United States), Urbana, Delvasto Silvio ,   Universidad del Valle (Colombia)
Published: May 2021

This paper presents results of an experimental study of a residue of masonry (RM), sampled from a construction and demolition waste (CDW), added as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) to partially replace up to 50% of Portland cement in the preparation of mortars. The pozzolanic activity (fixed lime and strength activity index), setting time, heat of hydration, the (autogenous and drying) shrinkage and compressive strength tests were carried out. The results show how the RM has a positive activity because the increase of RM replacement level in the mortars generates a lower heat of hydration and autogenous and drying shrinkage. The fixed lime at 28 and 180 days, indicating that the RM exhibits in some degree pozzolanic activity and the Strength Activity Index (SAI) was 77.13% and 84.36% of the compressive strength of 100% OPC mortar at the 7 and 28 days respectively, which conformed to ASTM C311. These results indicate that RM should be considered appropriated for using as a supplementary cementitious material.
Recurrent Myxoid Chondrosarcoma of Mandible: A Case Report
Authors: Verma Prabha , Khurana Rohini , Nanda Sambit Swarup , Rath Satyajeet
Published: May 2021

Myxoid chondrosarcoma is a rare malignant neoplasm of bone or soft tissue origin, characterised by the presence of chondroid and myxoid matrix. These are traditionally radio resistant tumours, so wide surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment. However, radiotherapy is generally advised for high-grade lesions with poor prognostic factors with adjuvant chemotherapy. The treatment decisions are primarily guided by the histological grade, extent of surgical resection, and site of the neoplasm. A case of a 28-year-old male who presented with recurrent painful swelling in the mandibular region is discussed here. To date, very few cases of Extraskeletal Myxoid Chondrosarcoma (EMC) occurring in the mandible region have been reported. So, due to the paucity of available literature, controversies still exist regarding effective treatment approaches in newly diagnosed and recurrent cases. This case reports the clinical presentation, histopathology, radiological characteristics, immune profile, and treatment modalities used in EMC with a comprehensive and relevant review of the literature.
Manual Therapy Combined with Therapeutic Exercise Vs Therapeutic Exercise Alone for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sharma Saurabh , Hussain Mohammed Ejaz , Sharma Shalini
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Shoulder complaints are the third most common musculoskeletal presentation, after back and neck disorders, in primary care. Among people with shoulder pain, Shoulder Impingement Syndrome (SIS) has the highest prevalence and accounts for 27% of shoulder disorders. Various treatment options are available for SIS. However, literature suggests the need of a review regarding the addition of Manual Therapy (MT) to the Therapeutic Exercise (TE) program. Aim: To investigate the effectiveness of MT combined with TEs versus TEs alone for the management of SIS. Materials and Methods: The study examined published randomised controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies. A comprehensive search of two electronic databases (PubMed and PEDro) was performed from inception till the last week of August, 2020. The selected studies were assessed on methodological quality rating using the PEDro scale and the modified downs and black scale for experimental and quasi-experimental studies, respectively. The extracted outcomes were pain levels, strength, Range of Motion (ROM) and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) scale score. The meta-analysis was done on continuous data and the data were summarised qualitatively and quantitatively. Results: Seven trials were included (n=437) after evaluation. Standard Mean Difference (SMD) with 95% CI was used to denote summary effects of the outcome measures. Pain {SMD: -1.07; 95%CI: -1.85, -0.28; p<0.01} showed positive effect when managed with MT combined with TE while external rotation strength {SMD: 0.55; 95%CI 0.27, 0.84; p<0.01} improved with TE alone. The majority of the studies (six out of seven) had low risk of bias. Conclusion: The results indicate that evidence exists for improvement in pain level and muscle strength with MT combined with TE and TE alone respectively. The qualitative evidence suggests that glenohumeral mobilisation and exercises are associated with best outcomes for SIS management.
Portrait des pratiques éducatives et des perceptions du soutien à la réussite des élèves ayant le syndrome de Gilles de la Tourette
Authors: Leclerc Julie B. , Veilleux Audrey , Bourguignon Lysandre , Labrecque Dominique
Published: May 2021

Cette étude fait une recension des pratiques éducatives déclarées en milieu scolaire québécois auprès des élèves présentant un syndrome de la Tourette. Le sentiment de compétence des intervenant(e)s et leur perception de l’efficacité des interventions sont aussi évalués. Quarante-quatre participant(e)s ont répondu à un questionnaire en ligne. Les résultats montrent que la gestion des tics est moins souvent rapportée que d’autres types d’intervention, comme la gestion de l’hyperactivité et de l’opposition. Les intervenant(e)s se sentent majoritairement compétent(e)s et considèrent que les interventions appliquées sont globalement efficaces. Cet article permet de mieux soutenir les intervenant(e)s et d’identifier ce qui favorise la réussite éducative de ces élèves.
Preliminary Phytochemical Screening of Plumbagozeylanica L. Roots and Its Aphrodisiac Effect in Male Rats
Authors: Onen Patrick , Ocira Daniel , Omara Timothy , Nyeko Jacob , Okwir Augastine
Published: May 2021

Aim: To perform phytochemical screening of Plumbago zeylanica L. root extracts and assess the claim of its use in traditional management of erectile dysfunction in Uganda through evaluation of the aphrodisiac effect of its aqueous extracts in male Wistar rats.

Study Design: This study employed both qualitative and quantitative research designs.

Place and Duration of Study: All research work were performed at the Department of Biological Sciences, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda between August 2019 and December 2019.

Methodology: Classical phytochemical screening of aqueous and methanolic extracts of Plumbago zeylanica roots were performed following standard methods. Aqueous extracts were administered to Male Wistar rats and the effect of the extracts on the mounting and intromission frequencies were determined.

Results: Glycosides, phenols, saponins, quinones, terpenoids and steroids were present in both methanolic and aqueous extracts. Alkaloids were present in methanolic extracts only while tannins and phlobatannins were only present in aqueous extracts. Flavonoids, coumarins and anthraquinones were not detected in both extracts. Aqueous root extracts of Plumbago zeylanica produced pro-sexual stimulatory effects in male rats when administered at 150, 300 and 450 mg/kg body weight.

Conclusion: The results support the use of Plumbago zeylanicaroots by indigenous people in Uganda to increase libido, treat premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction. The extracts had low sexual enhancement in sexually inexperienced male rats and therefore, further studies using experienced animal models are needed to better apprehend the prosexual effects of P. zeylanica roots. The toxicity of the extracts as well as structural elucidation and pharmacological evaluation of the responsible bioactive compounds merit further studies.
Chilean Educational Reform (2014-2018) and its Impact on Higher Education System
Authors: Morales Valdés José Manuel
Published: May 2021

During the second term of the President Michelle Bachelet (2014-2018), a transversal educational reform was carried out. To tertiary education its main purpose was to provide free tuition for higher education institutions (HEIs): Universities, Technical Training Centers (CFT) and Professional Institutes (IP). In that context, this paper analyzes the impact of this educational reform as it pertains to the Chilean system of higher education, with special focus on the implementation of free tuition as a new way to transfer resources from the State to HEIs.

The methods used is the documental analysis of different legal texts, as Acts and Budget Acts. They are analyzing to identify manifestations of governmental rationality, identifying  the language-in-use or its performative dimension.

The analysis considers political variables and how they influenced the process. Its focus is to see legal and institutional changes along with public budget and the impact of HEIs enrolment. The results indicate that despite the significant transformations carried out in the sphere of higher education, the reform could not achieve a significant change in the relationship between the State and HEIs due to the political dispute that arose in the process, thus achieving mixed results.

Chilean higher education provides an interesting case study which can serve as reference for educational debates in other countries.
Novel Rapid Validated TLC- Densitometry for the Simultaneous Determination of Three Co-formulated Drugs used for Deep Tooth Inflammation Treatment
Authors: Marouf Mohammad , Kawas Ghoufran , Sakur Amir Alhaj
Published: May 2021

A new use of a tertiary antibiotic combination of ciprofloxacin, clindamycin and metronidazole is currently being studied as an intracranial (intracranial) drug in an effort to disinfect the root canal system to revitalize the tooth with dead pulp. It is necessary to developing analytical method for the new drug combination.

Herein we developed a rapid validated thin-layer chromatography (TLC)‒densitometric method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of 3 co-formulated drugs used for deep tooth inflammation Treatment. The studied drugs are Ciprofloxacin.HCL (CIP), Clindamycin phosphate (CLI) and Metronidazole(MET). The separation was achieved by using silica gel 60 F254 plates (20*20 cm) as stationary Phase and the developing system of Dichloromethane:n-Hexane:methanol:Ethylamine:Triethylamine (40:20:32:3:5)v/v.

Densitometry scanning was performed at 220 nm. The Rf values of CIP, CLI and MET were found to be 0.588, 0.776 and 0.898 respectively.

The method was validated as per the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines and was successfully applied for the analysis of ternary lab made mixture, containing the cited ternary mixture without interference from excipients. There is no previously published TLC–densitometry method for the determination of the previously mentioned ternary mixture. The suggested method is novel, rapid, accurate, reproducible and of low cost, so; thus, it can be used for quality control analysis of these formulations.
Geo-spatial Analysis of Farmland Affected by 2020 Flooding of River Rima, Northwestern Nigeria
Authors: Muktar Abdullahi , Yelwa Sadiq A. , Bello Muhammad Tayyib , Elekwachi Wali
Published: May 2021

The flooding of River Rima is an annual issue affecting farmland located within the floodplains. This phenomena causes loss of farm produce and mass destruction of buildings, including roads and bridges in the area. Estimating the farmland affected by the flood will help the policy makers in decision making on how to mitigate the impact of flooding in the affected areas. The Terra/MODIS satellite image with 7-2-1 bands combination was used to classify the image into four landcover types. The area covered by flood was selected to calculate the flood area using Image Calculator module on QGIS software. The class of water was imposed on Digital Elevation Model that was obtained from Environmental Monitoring Satellite called The Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). The result shows that River Rima flood occupies about 17,517 km2, equivalent to 1.7 million hectares of farmland that is below 230 meters (ASL). It was recommended that the local authorities and decision makers may use the flood map to showing flood risk zones so as to deter construction beyond the buffer. Farmers should adhere strictly to NiMet’s advice based on flood predictions. The civil engineers should also take note of the maximum water level during flooding so as to apply professional advice when constructing roads and bridges in the area.
Results of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries by Arthroscopic Reconstruction Using Semitendinosus Tendon
Authors: Valecha Nuresh Kumar , Keerio Niaz Hussain , Qureshi Masood Ahmed , Hussain Syed Sajid , Saqlain Hassan Amir us , Shah Ghazanfar Ali , Noor Syed Shahid
Published: May 2021

Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate the surgical management of anterior cruciate ligament injuries by arthroscopic reconstruction using semitendinosus grafts.

Methodolgy: This study was conducted by Dibba Hospital Fujairah, United Arab Emirates from March 2017- to March 2020. A total of 40 patients were selected for this research.   In our study, we used arthroscopy assisted ACL reconstruction technique with single bundle quadrupled semitendinosus tendon autograft. This autograft was inserted from the ipsilateral limb with the help of endobutton femoral side of graft was fixed and with bioabsorbable screw tibial side of graft was stabilized. A single surgeon performed all the surgeries.

Results: In our observations, we reported that the majority of the patients had exposure of ACL injury in their middle adult age (32-38 years old) due to high engagement in physical activities (67.8%) like biking, playing sports and many others. The ratio of right knee injury site was comparatively high (53.5%) than the left one (46.4%).

Conclusion: From the results, we concluded that the younger age group is more prone to anterior Cruciate ligament injury. ACL reconstruction with Semitendinosus tendon autograft helps in maintaining knee movement and assist in early knee stability.
The COVID-19 Pandemic and the Public Health System Challenges in India
Authors: Nair Kesavan Sreekantan
Published: May 2021

This paper attempts to provide an overview of the Covid-19 pandemic situation in India and highlights various public health system challenges faced by the country in its efforts to control the pandemic. This paper is based on extensive review of literature conducted to stimulate pertinent descriptive information on Covid-19 pandemic and public health system challenges in India. The Covid-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges on India’s public health system. India has implemented several strategies to mitigate the pandemic, but the rapid spread of the virus poses huge challenges of hitherto unseen scale on multiple fronts. India’s public health system is chronically underfunded, leading to a shortage of Covid-19 treatment facilities. Even the available health resources are unevenly distributed across states resulting in huge disparities in emergency preparedness and management of the pandemic. Due to lack of robust primary health care system and effective public health strategies, vulnerable population in most states are prone to the pandemic and risk of severe complications. The findings can draw attentions of health policy makers to develop appropriate policy for future pandemic preparedness and management.
Endoscopic Pilonidal Sinus Treatment (EPSIT): Is a New Minimally Invasive Treatment in Pilonidal Sinus
Authors: Dal Nawaz Ali , Abro Arshad Hussain , Memon Muhammad Anwar , Memon Ahmer Akbar , Mallah Muhammad Qasim , Khoso Danish Haider , Shaikh Ubedullah
Published: May 2021

Objective: To determine the outcome of endoscopic pilonidal sinus treatment (EPSIT): Is a new minimally invasive treatment in pilonidal sinus.

Study Design: This is a observational study.

Setting: Study carried out at General Surgery department, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences Jamshoro, form March 2020 to Feb 2021.

Materials and Methods:  Patients aged between 20-40 years, both gender having sinus in the cleft of the buttocks on clinical examination with associated symptoms like pain when sitting or standing, reddened, sore skin around the area, pus or blood draining from sinus, hair protruding from the lesion and formation of more than one sinus tract, or holes in the skin were included in this study. Patients with abscess and recurrent pilonidal sinus were excluded. Outcome measurements were postoperative pain, return to normal daily activities and complication rates including infection, recurrence.

Results: 44 patients with Pilonidal Sinus were included in this study.  15 to 40 years with mean age ± SD (range) was 26.56±4.1 years. 40(90.90%) were male where as 4(9.09%) were females. Mostly patients have single external openings in 37(84.09%) patients with midline opening location in 26(59.09%) patients. The mean operative time±SD (range) was 21.09±3.62 minutes (15 to 45 min). According to the visual analog scale (VAS) score for postoperative pain assessment after 48 hours of surgery, 36 patients (81.81%) reported a VAS between 1 to 3, and 8(18.18%) reported a score between 4 to 6. Postoperative wound infection was seen in one case 2.27% while recurrence was observed in two cases 4.54%. The overall healing rate was 93.18%. The mean time to return to normal daily activities was 6.1±11 (range, 2–15) days. 

Conclusion: To conclude that the EPSiT is safe, effective, simple, repeatable and very welcomed by the patients if explained correctly. We can say that EPSiT can be labeled as a day surgery, with fast post-operative recovery and early return to work.
A cross-sectional study of socioeconomic status and treatment interruption among Japanese workers during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors:   CORoNaWork Project, Fujimoto Kenji , Ishimaru Tomohiro , Tateishi Seiichiro , Nagata Tomohisa , Tsuji Mayumi , Eguchi Hisashi , Ogami Akira , Matsuda Shinya , Fujino Yoshihisa
Published: May 2021

Objectives

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused interruptions to chronic disease and non-emergency treatment. The purpose of this study is to examine which socioeconomic status groups are most at risk of treatment interruption among Japanese workers.

Methods

This cross-sectional internet monitor study was conducted among Japanese workers on December 22-26, 2020. Out of a total of 33 302 participants in the survey, 9510 (5392 males and 4118 females) who responded that they required regular treatment or hospital visits were included in the analysis. A multilevel logistic model nested in the prefecture of residence was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) for treatment disruption. We examined separate multivariate models for socioeconomic factors, health factors, and lifestyle factors.

Results

During a period of rapid COVID-19 infection, about 11% of Japanese workers who required regular treatment experienced interruptions to their treatment. The OR of treatment interruption associated with not being married compared with being married was 1.44 (95%CI: 1.17-1.76); manual labor work compared with desk work was 1.30 (95%CI: 1.11-1.52); loss of employment when the COVID-19 pandemic started and continued unemployment compared with being employed over the entire pandemic period was 1.62 (95%CI: 1.13-2.31) and 2.57 (95%CI: 1.63-4.07), respectively; and feeling financially unstable was 2.92 (95%CI: 2.25-3.80).

Conclusion

Treatment interruption is a new health inequality brought about by COVID-19 with possible medium- and long-term effects, including excess mortality, morbidity, and productivity loss due to increased presenteeism. Efforts are needed to reduce treatment interruptions among workers who require regular treatment.