bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the Role of Social Media on Student Engagement and Authentic Learning during Post COVID-19
Authors: Hossain Syed Far Abid , Khan Reefat Arefin , Sohan Md. Ahmedul Islam , Karmoker Tanushree , Asikullah Fm. , Chakma Phonebuson , Chisty Kazi Khaled Shams
Published: July 2022

Social media-supported academic Apps such as Google Classroom, Zoom, ClassIn can simplify teaching and learning, even after the COVID-19 pandemic. Student engagement is a challenging task for educators in internet-enabled technology-enhanced learning platforms. This chapter investigates the role of various SNS platform to ensure sustainable learning. Quantitative data were collected (n = 285) using an online survey technique with the students from a recognized university in China. All the proposed hypotheses were supported. The findings indicated that constructs such as affective engagement (AE) and social engagement (SE) are significant forecasters of social interaction (SI) that may lead to achieve authentic learning task (ALTask) post COVID-19. Further, lack of attention (LAN) was found to significantly moderate social interaction and authentic learning tasks post COVID-19.
The Use of PBIS in Resolving Ethical Dilemmas Created by Disproportionate Punitive Practice for Students of Color
Authors: Ferrell Natasha , Crosby-Cooper Tricia
Published: July 2022

Disciplinary practices in the K-12 setting have historically shown a higher propensity for harsher punitive practices for students of color. This is evidenced by years of research describing disproportionate disciplinary practices. These disproportionate practices have created an ethical dilemma in our school system, as students of color have experienced higher rates of office discipline referrals, school suspensions, and expulsions. One method used in the school system to address disproportionate punitive practices is positive behavior intervention supports (PBIS). Positive behavior intervention supports is a systematic pro-active and preventative model that uses evidence-based interventions to reduce behaviors of concern. This chapter examines the use of PBIS to address the ethical dilemma created in the school system due to disproportionate punitive practices.
Examining the Victim-Offender Overlap
Authors: Radu Monica Bixby
Published: July 2022

Because of the negative consequences associated with adolescent behavioral problems, such as violence, more research is needed that focuses on the interconnectedness between unsafe schools, bully victimization, and subsequent violence. Additional research may also help identify the processes through which victimized individuals become offenders. Drawing from Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory and Coleman's social capital theory, this researcher argues that the bonds between youths and their families and youths and their schools are important for understanding violent offending. Additionally, this chapter merges insights from sociological and criminological research to explore how unsafe schools and victimization occurring in multiple contexts contributes to youths becoming violent offenders. This chapter also provides policy implications, stressing the importance of an approach that considers how we can best invest in youth's future by bridging families and schools to promote safer schools for all students.
Examining Restorative Justice in PK12 With a Lens Through Kohlberg's Theory
Authors: Sytsma Cindy , Pacis Dina
Published: July 2022

Restorative justice serves to facilitate juvenile offenders in taking responsibility for their actions via dialogue with victim, victim's family, and community. In the PK12 setting, this model uses classroom circles to set academic goals, explore curriculum, develop core values, fairness communities, and peer juries to talk with students about causes and identify positive issues to repair the harm done. Kohlberg's theory informs the use and implementation of restorative justice with its six stages of moral development. This chapter will examine Kohlberg's theory coupled with restorative justice at the PK12 level. The application of these philosophies may lead to early development of positive decision making, value of self, good communication skills, and ethical problem solving. By establishing these psychological/sociological foundations in early childhood, children may be able to secure friendly relationships and orient more easily towards fixed rules.
A Digital Twin Model of the Smart City Communication Infrastructure
Authors: Kislyakov Sergey V.
Published: July 2022

Digital transformation in Industry 4.0 today is associated with the transition to cyber-physical systems through the use of digital twin technologies, the industrial Internet, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, etc. In this work, an attempt of strict theory developing was made that would allow to determine, “what Digital Twin is” and to determine the place of the Digital Twin among other models. As a result, a cyber-physical Cross-Domain Model of Communication Service Provider and the model of the Digital Twin for the digital service provider was suggested. The models aim to meet new problems in communications management.
Concept Drift Adaptation in Intrusion Detection Systems Using Ensemble Learning
Authors: Mulimani Deepa C. , Totad Shashikumar G. , Patil Prakashgoud R.
Published: July 2022

The primary challenge of intrusion detection systems (IDS) is to rapidly identify new attacks, learn from the adversary, and update the intrusion detection immediately. IDS operate in dynamic environments subjected to evolving data streams where data may come from different distributions. This is known as the problem of concept drift. Today's IDS though are equipped with deep learning algorithms most of the times fail to identify concept drift. This paper presents a technique to detect and adapt to concept drifts in streaming data with a large number of features often seen in IDS. The study modifies extreme gradient boosting (XGB) algorithm for adaptability of drifts and optimization for large datasets in IDS. The primary objective is to reduce the number of ‘false positives' and ‘false negatives' in the predictions. The method is tested on streaming data of smaller and larger sizes and compared against non-adaptive XGBoost and logistic regression.
Design of Low-Power High-Speed 8 Bit CMOS Current Steering DAC for AI Applications
Authors: Krishna Banoth , Gill Sandeep Singh , Kumar Amod
Published: July 2022

This paper describes a current steering 8-bit DAC architecture for low power and high-speed assistance in AI networks. This design is most suitable for 5G and next-generation high-speed communication systems on chip (SoCs). This DAC keeps a constant load current and leads to faster operations in wideband portable device applications. The design is based on weighted current transmission through current mirrors wherein current reduces from MSB to LSB continuously. By choosing a low current for LSB, the power dissipation reduces. Power and area are also reduced by using a 2-bit binary to thermometer decoder. The DAC's integral nonlinearity (INL) and differential nonlinearity (DNL) are found to be within 0.4 and 0.9 LSB, respectively. The DAC's highest operating speed is 1GHz, with a power dissipation of around 24.2 mW with the supply voltage of 1.8v using 180nm CMOS technology.
Aneurysm of the lateral marginal vein of the foot
Authors: Massi Ilaria , Ricci Roberta , Alesiani Francesca
Published: July 2022

Superficial venous aneurysms are a very rare pathology. This case report describes a 21-years-old male patient, who developed a soft, slow-growing mass, in the lateral part of the dorsal foot. Based on clinical examination and EcocolorDoppler ultrasound exam, the diagnosis of venous aneurysm of the lateral marginal vein was confirmed. The treatment proposed was ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy. The purpose of this work is to describe for the first time a venous superficial aneurysm localized in the lateral marginal vein of the foot. It is the first case reported in English literature.
H2 -induced transient upregulation of phospholipids with suppression of energy metabolism
Authors: Iketani Masumi , Sakane Iwao , Fujita Yasunori , Ito Masafumi , Ohsawa Ikuroh
Published: July 2022

Molecular hydrogen (H2) is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying its biological effects are largely unknown. Similar to other gaseous molecules such as inhalation anesthetics, H2 is more soluble in lipids than in water. A recent study demonstrated that H2 reduces radical polymerization-induced cellular damage by suppressing fatty acid peroxidation and membrane permeability. Thus, we sought to examine the effects of short exposure to H2 on lipid composition and associated physiological changes in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. We analyzed cells by liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry to define changes in lipid components. Lipid class analysis of cells exposed to H2 for 1 hour revealed transient increases in glycerophospholipids including phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, and cardiolipin. Metabolomic analysis also showed that H2 exposure for 1 hour transiently suppressed overall energy metabolism accompanied by a decrease in glutathione. We further observed alterations to endosomal morphology by staining with specific antibodies. Endosomal transport of cholera toxin B to recycling endosomes localized around the Golgi body was delayed in H2-exposed cells. We speculate that H2-induced modification of lipid composition depresses energy production and endosomal transport concomitant with enhancement of oxidative stress, which transiently stimulates stress response pathways to protect cells.
Light-cured calcium hydroxide cements release of calcium ions using argon based induction coupled mass spectroscopy - an in vitro study
Authors: Menon Sidharth S , Sanghvi Zarana , Chokshi Shraddha , Patel Pruthvi , Trivedi Pooja , Patel Nishit
Published: July 2022

Calcium ion-releasing ability of different calcium hydroxide-based pulp capping materials was comparatively evaluated in this study. Different brands of cements were taken from different manufacturers and categorized into three groups. Three different brands of Ca(OH)2 cements (Dycal, TheraCal, and Cal LC) were taken prepared by mixing and curing the cements as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Consequently, ion release was measured after 7, 14, and 21 days by argon-based induction coupled plasma mass spectroscopy test. Within the limitations of this study, light-cured Ca(OH)2 cements released a higher amount of calcium ions compared with self-cured Ca(OH)2 cements. Theracal was found to be the highest light-cured calcium ion releasing materials throughout the period of 21 days. In conclusion, further clinical studies are warranted to substantiate the findings of this study.
Comparison between Air Q and intubating laryngeal mask airway as intubation conduits in patients with simulated fixed cervical spine
Authors: Bala Renu , Basumatary Jasmine , Bansal Priyanka
Published: July 2022

The intubating laryngeal mask airway (ILMA) can be used for ventilation and oxygenation between intubation attempts, but there is a varied success rate ranging from 33% to 96%. Air Q is a relatively new entrant. Parker flex tube aids in atraumatic intubation. The primary aim of this study was to compare Air Q intubating laryngeal airway with ILMA as intubation conduits in patients with simulated fixed cervical spine using a Parker flex tube. It was a single-blinded, randomized, prospective, and comparative study conducted on 91 patients aged between 18 to 60 years of either sex, scheduled to undergo elective surgery under general anesthesia belonging to the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I and II. Out of 45 patients in each group, Air Q was successfully placed in 43 patients and ILMA was successfully placed in 44 patients. 35.56% of the patients required maneuvers for placing the Air Q, whereas, for placing the ILMA, only 15.56% of the patients required maneuvers. Intubation through the AIR Q was successful in 39 patients and through the ILMA in 44 patients, but there was no significant difference between the two groups. The number of attempts and the time of device insertion were comparable. There were a similar number of attempts, maneuvers required, and time is taken for endotracheal intubation. The incidence of cough and sore throat was comparable in both groups. We conclude that ILMA has a higher success rate than Air Q for tracheal intubation with Parker Flex tube in patients with simulated fixed cervical spine. More optimized maneuvers were required for the placement of Air Q.
Argon pharmacokinetics
Authors: Lemaire Joël , Heninger Michel , Louarn Essyllt , Katz Ira , Tissier Renaud , Chalopin Matthieu , Farjot Géraldine , Milet Aude
Published: July 2022

The noble gas argon has demonstrated biological activity that may prove useful as a medical intervention. Pharmacokinetics, the disposition of the drug molecule in the body through time, is fundamental necessary knowledge to drug discovery, development and even post-marketing. The fundamental measurement in pharmacokinetic studies is blood concentration of the molecule (and its metabolites) of interest. While a physiologically based model of argon pharmacokinetics has appeared in the literature, no experimental data have been published. Thus, argon pharmaceutical development requires measurement of argon solubility in blood. This paper reports on the development of a technique based on mass spectrometry for measuring argon solubility in liquids, including blood, to be further employed in pharmacokinetics testing of argon. Based on a prototype, results are reported from sensitivity experiments using ambient air, water and rabbit blood. The key takeaway is that the system was sensitive to argon during all of the testing. We believe the technique and prototype of the quadrupole mass spectrometer gas analyzer will be capable of inferring argon pharmacokinetics through the analysis of blood samples.
Ultrasound-guided Serratus Anterior Plane Block for Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation using Multi-catheter Interstitial Brachytherapy Technique under Anesthesia in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Hoda Wasimul , Puri Sidharth , Garg Rakesh
Published: July 2022

In early stages of breast cancer, breast conservation therapy (BCT) with lumpectomy and adjuvant irradiation is preferred. Accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) is considered as an alternative to whole breast irradiation. The reasons are it requires less number of irradiation fractions, shorter treatment time, and decreased size of irradiation. The procedure includes insertion of several brachycatheters, which is associated with significant pain in the postoperative period. We report case series of 8 patients of APBI where perioperative pain management was done using ultrasound (USG)-guided serratus anterior plane (SAP) block with catheter insertion. The catheter was placed between the serratus anterior muscle and external intercostal muscle. The drug used was 0.4 mL.kg−1 of 0.375% Ropivacaine with a maximum value of 30 mL. On the day of the procedure, all patients were given two boluses of ropivacaine 20 mL each at an interval of 6 h. From the next day onward, they received ropivacaine boluses on demand basis when Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) was >4. There were no complications during the procedure. None of the patients required extra fentanyl boluses intraoperatively. One patient did not have an SAP catheter inserted during primary insertion, as she failed to give consent for block. On repositioning of catheters, she experienced severe pain with a NRS of 8/10. After obtaining proper consent, SAP catheter was inserted and she had NRS of 1/10 postoperatively. 2/8 patients received rescue analgesics in the form of diclofenac. 7/8 SAP catheters were removed on day 5. Only one SAP catheter was removed accidentally on day 3. It was concluded that USG-guided SAP catheters are a novel, safe, and effective regional anesthesia technique for perioperative pain management in breast cancer surgeries undergoing APBI.
Evaluation of Daily Anti-Tubercular Treatment in Osteoarticular Tuberculosis
Authors: Omprakash Lakhwani
Published: July 2022

Background:

Management of osteoarticular tuberculosis is primarily based on pulmonary tuberculosis guidelines. Guidelines usually do not take into consideration specific organ system affection, though tube pathology and healing of affected organ is not the same. Therefore, routine guidelines are difficult to follow in osteoarticular tuberculosis and many treatment regimes are in vague. Therefore, routine tuberculosis (TB) treatment is not followed, and many regimes are in vague. The current study is undertaken to objectively evaluate daily drug regime in osteoarticular TB and has specific guidelines.

Materials and Methods:

Drug-sensitive osteoarticular TB cases were evaluated for daily anti-tubercular treatment (ATT) guided by clinical and radiological healing. Patients were categorized based on stage, severity, and site of infection. Vitamin C and iron were also included in the daily treatment regime. Ethambutol was included in the continuation phase. Outcomes in terms of radiological healing and duration of daily regimen were studied.

Results:

All patients at 6 months of daily ATT showed clinical improvement but persistent disease on imaging. On magnetic resonance imaging, 16 out of 52 patients showed worsening at 6 months. Earliest healing appeared at 8 months. Healing appears to be faster in surgically treated patients. There was no relapse till the shortest follow-up of 2 years.

Conclusion:

The directly observed treatment strategy (DOTS), three times a week, is enough in osteoarticular TB. Daily drug with a minimum duration of 9 months is necessary. Diagnosis is usually delayed due to deep-seated infections, hence advance diagnosis modalities and high index of suspicion help. The study does not encounter any case of drug resistance. Addition of vitamin C appears to increase effectiveness of drugs. Duration of ATT should be determined by the pre-treatment disease activity and response to ATT.
Case of a diagnostic challenge
Authors: Kothari Ankita , Lam Geoffrey
Published: July 2022

Retinal manifestations of tuberous sclerosis (TS) include retinal astrocytomas and retinal granulomas. The retinal astrocytomas and retinal granulomas are benign tumors which clinically appear indistinguishable from retinoblastoma (Rb) lesions in their early stages. We report a case of TS with features of retinal hamartomas which closely resemble Rb lesions. We emphasize the important role of ocular coherence tomography in combination with frequent examinations under anesthesia to differentiate the two entities. TS and Rb can present as the most dangerous combination, and it's best not to assume a malignant condition as a benign one at the cost of a child's life.
Double macular hole with gyrate atrophy
Authors: Bodhankar Paurnima Ulhas , Joshi Ajit Kamalakar , Patil Abhinandan N.
Published: July 2022

A 55-year-old female presented with diminution of vision, night blindness, and gyrate atrophy with “double macular hole” in the left eye. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography of the left eye showed coexisting full thickness and lamellar macular hole with both eyes intraretinal schisis and thin epiretinal membrane. After electroretinography and biochemical confirmation of gyrate atrophy, along with arginine-restricted diet, left eye surgery was advised. Postoperatively complete closure of double hole with the resolution of schisis was achieved. However, at subsequent follow-up visits, significant recurrence of intraretinal schisis was noted due to the continued toxic effect of hyperornithinemia on inner retinal layers and retinal pigment epithelium, highlighting the need for effective future treatment options.
Ocular surface disease in glaucoma patients on topical medications and its relation to duration of treatment and number of medications
Authors: Chanekar Samruddhi N. , Usgaonkar Ugam P. S. , Akarkar Shekhar O.
Published: July 2022

Background:

Topical antiglaucoma medications can alter the tear film and lead to ocular surface disease (OSD).

Aim:

This study was done to check for the presence of OSD in patients of glaucoma on topical antiglaucoma medications and to analyze the severity of OSD with duration of treatment and number of topical antiglaucoma medications.

Setting and Design:

This is a prospective observational study in a tertiary care hospital.

Materials and Methods:

The study was undertaken in 54 eyes of 54 glaucoma patients taking antiglaucoma medications for at least 6 months and control group of 54 subjects. All the participants were assessed for OSD by ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire, Schirmer's 1 test, and tear break up time test (TBUT).

Statistical Analysis:

Mean and percentage were used to analyze the variables. Comparison analysis was done with analysis of variance test. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

The prevalence of OSD in patients of glaucoma on topical antiglaucoma medications was found to be 74%, 69%, and 83% based on OSDI questionnaire, Schirmer's test, and TBUT test, respectively. There was increase in severity of OSD with increased duration of treatment and increase in number of topical antiglaucoma medications.

Conclusion:

Most patients of glaucoma on topical antiglaucoma medications were having OSD. Severity of OSD is directly proportional to duration of treatment and number of drugs used.
Pesticide exposure presenting as acute conjunctival necrosis
Authors: Deepthi R. H. , Thanuja G. P.
Published: July 2022

Acute direct ocular exposure to insecticides is rare and can present as a chemical injury. We present a case of a 21-year-old male patient who had an accidental exposure to chlorpyrifos and propoxur while spraying it as an insecticide. He presented with severe conjunctival ischemia and necrosis involving the inferior fornix. He underwent amniotic membrane transplantation to preserve the ocular surface. The case report highlights the chemical effects of organophosphorus compounds on the ocular surface.
An insight into competency-based undergraduate curriculum and its application in Ophthalmology
Authors: Nema Nitin , Srivastava Romi , Bose Sukhwant
Published: July 2022

The revised undergraduate (UG) medical curriculum envisages the Indian Medical Graduate (IMG) to assist the nation in achieving its goal of “health for all.” It adopts learner-centered and outcome-oriented approach to train an IMG who can effectively cater to the needs of the society. It emphasizes on the development of competencies and prepares the learner to work in real life situations. Hence, there is the shift in focus from “must know” to “must do.” Apart from being a competent clinician, the graduate has to function in the roles of effective communicator, leader, life-long learner, and professional. For acquisition of the competencies, some key components have been added in competency-based medical education. Each subject expert has to make sure to teach and assess the subject-wise skills as well as these competencies. This enables the UG students to acquire knowledge, skills, ethics, values, and attitude to work as competent and skillful health-care professionals.
Clinically significant changes in the spherical equivalent hyperopia in patients with refractive accommodative esotropia
Authors: Mohan Kanwar , Sharma Suresh Kumar
Published: July 2022

Aims:

To determine the frequency and factors affecting clinically significant (≥1.0 diopters, D) changes in the spherical equivalent (SE) hyperopia in patients with refractive accommodative esotropia (RAET).

Materials and Methods:

The medical records of consecutive patients 3–12 years of age with RAET who had cycloplegic autorefraction initially and at follow-ups, initial hyperopia ≥2.0 diopters, and a minimum follow-up of 5 years were reviewed. A difference of ≥1.0D in SE hyperopia between the initial and follow-up/final visits was considered clinically significant.

Results:

This study included 161 patients (median age, 5 years). The mean follow-up period was 8.7 ± 2.4 years (range, 5.0–17.5 years). Overall, 88 patients (55%) had no clinically significant (<1.0D) change; 65 (40%), ≥1.0D decrease; and 8 (5%), ≥1.0D increase in SE hyperopia between the initial and final visits. Twenty-seven patients (17%) had ≥2.0D decrease and 11 (7%) ≥3.0D. There was no clinically significant change in SE hyperopia in 83% at age ≤7 years, and a ≥1.0D decrease in about 45% after age 12 years and in 3% after age 16 years. A ≥2.0D decrease was more common with initial hyperopia ≥4.0D than with <4.0D (P = 0.001). There was no significant difference between amblyopic and nonamblyopic eyes (P = 0.276).

Conclusions:

A clinically significant (≥1.0D) decrease in SE hyperopia occurred in 40% and ≥3.0D in 7% of the patients with RAET. Most patients did not have a clinically significant decrease up to age 7 years and after age 16 years. Patients with initial hyperopia ≥4.0D had a more decrease. Amblyopia had no effect.
A rare case report of branch retinal vein occlusion in a COVID-19-positive patient
Authors: Panigrahi Pradeep Kumar
Published: July 2022

This case report is about a rare case of branch retinal vein occlusion in a healthy 53-year-old male with active COVID-19 infection. All laboratory tests for hypercoagulable state were normal. The patient responded well to multiple injections of intravitreal ranibizumab with complete resolution of macular edema and improvement of vision.
Successful management of gingival recession with interdental attachment loss using gingival unit grafts
Authors: Katti Neelima , Mohanty Devapratim , Agrawal Poonam , Raj Subash Chandra , Pradhan Shib Shankar , Baral Debjani
Published: July 2022

Background:

Gingival recession leads to root surface exposure devoid of periodontal attachment. Recession defects with interdental attachment loss (RT2, RT3), further increase the avascular area which is critical for survival of soft-tissue grafts. Nonsubmerged grafts such as free gingival grafts and gingival unit grafts (GUGs) rely primarily on plasmatic circulation from the recipient area during the initial stages of healing for its survival.

Methods:

Nineteen isolated RT2 recession defects, in the mandibular anterior region, were treated using GUG. The clinical parameters of recession depth (RD), recession width (RW), interdental clinical attachment levels (iCAL) were measured at baseline. Percentage of mean root coverage (MRC) was calculated at 3 months and 6 months.

Results:

The percentage of mean root coverage (MRC) achieved at the end of 6 months was 81.79% ± 6.16%. Further, Simple linear regression analysis to predict MRC at 6 months using baseline RW revealed, for every 1 mm decrease in RW, the percentage of root coverage significantly increased by 5.25% (P = 0.04).

Conclusion:

GUG can be used as an alternative treatment modality to achieve successful root coverage in RT2 recession defects. Baseline RW can be used to predict the outcome of root coverage at the end of 6 months.
Evolution of yoga: From spiritual uplift to business outburst
Authors: Dayananda Swamy H. R. , Agoramoorthy Govindasamy
Published: July 2022

Yoga has become a multi-billion dollar business in the globalized society. From celebrities to commoners, the art of bending bodies and boggling minds through various procedures of Yoga practice has become an essential activity to enhance health. This article analyzes how the intuitive virtuosity of yoga intended for spiritual advancement has evolved to become an exploding business enterprise in contemporary society. People worldwide adore the practice of yoga since it promotes both physical and mental fitness while making people cheerful. This article outlines the often ignored aspect of ethics mandated in classical yoga scriptures to pursue the spiritual journey to attain the ultimate freedom through enlightenment.
Integrated effect of yoga and mindfulness meditation on pain, functional disability, and spinal flexibility in computer users with chronic low back pain: A prospective randomized active control trial
Authors: Singphow Chametcha , Purohit Satya Prakash , Tekur Padmini , Bista Suman , Panigrahy Surya Narayan , Raghuram Nagarathna
Published: July 2022

Introduction:

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is two and a half times more prevalent in the working population than in nonworking population. The 1-year prevalence of low back pain (LBP) in working population ranges from 23% to 38%. However, the 1-year prevalence in computer professionals was found to be 31%–54%. Studies have demonstrated the vast mental and physiological health advantages associated with yoga.

Objective:

We planned to investigate the effect of yoga and mindfulness meditation in computer users with CLBP.

Methods:

Eighty computer users (42.6 ± 8.45 years of age; suffering from CLBP for 5.20 ± 3.01 years; 51 males and 29 females) were recruited from Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. Subjects were randomized into two groups; yoga and mindfulness meditation/YM group (n = 40) and physical exercise/PE group (n = 40). YM group practiced an integrated module comprising yoga practices and mindfulness meditation, while PE group practiced physical exercises designed for LBP (1 h per day, 3 days per week for 16 weeks). Assessments were done at baseline, after 8 weeks, and after 16 weeks.

Results:

Seventy-seven participants (39 in YM and 38 in PE) completed the study. Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores and Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) scores decreased significantly, and the Sit and Reach Test (SRT) scores improved significantly in both groups after intervention (p < 0.001). Between-group analyses demonstrated that there was a significant difference in ODI scores (YM = 7.28 ± 5.68, PE = 15.53 ± 8.13, P < 0.001), NRS scores (YM = 1.00 ± 0.89, PE = 1.82 ± 0.73, P < 0.001), and SRT scores (YM = 26.41 ± 5.03, PE = 22.82 ± 4.96, P = 0.002) between the YM group and PE group at 16 weeks, favoring the YM group.

Conclusion:

A 16-week yoga & mindfulness meditation program appeared to be effective in reducing pain and functional disability, and in improving spinal flexibility in computer users with CLBP.
India Policy Forum, Vol. 18
Authors: Muralidharan Karthik
Published: July 2022

This 18th India Policy Forum 2021 Volume comprises papers and highlights of the discussions at the India Policy Forum (IPF) held virtually on July 12–15, 2021, due to the persistence of the Coronavirus pandemic. The IPF is organized by NCAER, the National Council of Applied Economic Research, India’s oldest and largest, independent, non-profit, economic think-tank. The IPF promotes original economic policy and empirical research on India. The IPF Editors commission both empirical research papers and policy-focused expert reviews, the latter also based on robust, original research. It provides a unique combination of intense scholarship and policymaker engagement at the annual IPF Conference that reviews this research.
Cutoff on Ramanujan complexes and classical groups
Authors: Chapman Michael , Parzanchevski Ori
Published: July 2022

The total-variation cutoff phenomenon has been conjectured to hold for simple random walk on all transitive expanders. However, very little is actually known regarding this conjecture, and cutoff on sparse graphs in general. In this paper we establish total-variation cutoff for simple random walk on Ramanujan complexes of type

\widetilde{A}_{d}

(

d\geq1

). As a result, we obtain explicit generators for the finite classical groups

\operatorname{PGL}_{n}(\mathbb{F}_{q})

for which the associated Cayley graphs exhibit total-variation cutoff.
A variant of Roe algebras for spaces with cylindrical ends with applications in relative higher index theory
Authors: Seyedhosseini Mehran
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we define a variant of Roe algebras for spaces with cylindrical ends and use this to study questions regarding existence and classification of metrics of positive scalar curvature on such manifolds which are collared on the cylindrical end. We discuss how our constructions are related to relative higher index theory as developed by Chang, Weinberger, and Yu and use this relationship to define higher rho-invariants for positive scalar curvature metrics on manifolds with boundary. This paves the way for the classification of these metrics. Finally, we use the machinery developed here to give a concise proof of a result of Schick and the author, which relates the relative higher index with indices defined in the presence of positive scalar curvature on the boundary.
$L_p$ Markov exponent of certain UPC sets
Authors: Beberok Tomasz
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we give sharp

L_p

Markov type inequalities for derivatives of multivariate polynomials for a wide family of UPC domains.
Transition metal complexes produced from dipicolinic acid: synthesis, structural characterization, and anti-microbial investigations
Authors: Kumar Sahoo Prakash , Kumar Biswal Susanta , Azam Mohammad
Published: July 2022

ABSTRACT. A novel series of mononuclear complexes of the type, [M(L)(H2O)2] [M = Co(II) (1), Ni(II) (2), Zn(II) (3), Cd(II) (4), L = dipicolinate), has been investigated using various techniques, including elemental analyses, FT-IR, 1H- and 13C NMR spectroscopy, powder XRD and thermogravimetric analysis. The results indicate that the coordination of the dipicolinic acid to the metal ions involves two carboxylate O atoms, the pyridine N atom, and two water molecules. The pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylic acid and its studied compounds have been screened against microbial species. The findings show that the complexes have higher activity in comparison to the free pyridine-dicarboxylic acid.

 

KEY WORDS: Dipicolinic acid, Metal complexes, Antimicrobial activity

 

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2022, 36(3), 607-615.                                                              

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v36i3.10
Electrochemical study of modified glassy carbon electrode with polyaniline nanoparticles using cyclic voltammetry
Authors: Mizher Radhi Muhammed , Ali Mossa Ahmed , Abbas Jaffar Al-Mulla Emad , Naeemah Lafta Ali
Published: July 2022

ABSTRACT. The mechanical attachment method was used to modify the glass carbon electrode (GCE) with polyaniline nanoparticles (PANI NPs) to produce a new nanosensor (PAN NPs/GCE). Electrochemical properties was studied by a new nano working electrode using cyclic voltammetric (CV) technique to develop the oxidation – reduction reaction. K4[Fe(CN)6] solution is one of the standard solutions for CV titration by redox peak current of FeII/FeIII in KCl solution as electrolyte, which can be used to study different concentrations, scan rates, pH, diffusion coefficient (Df) and reliability and stability PAN NPs/GCE modified electrode. The CV results of the new PANI NPs/GCE nanosensor have two peaks at 400 and 200 mV for oxidation-reduction FeII/FeIII, respectively. The current ratio value of the new PAN NPs/GCE was found to be Ipa/Ipc ≈ 1 with a separation peak of ∆Epa-pc = 200 mV. From these results, the nanosensor acts as an irreversible and heterogeneous reaction. Other electrochemical properties of the new sensor have a low detection limit of K4[Fe(CN)6]. In addition to the highly enhancement of the redox peak current in acidic pH, it was obtained good stability of nanomaterial on the electrode.

 

KEY WORDS: Polyaniline nanoparticles, GCE, K4[Fe(CN)6], Redox process, Cyclic voltammetry

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2022, 36(3), 687-696.                                                               

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v36i3.17
Al2O3/Fe3O4/ZrO2 ternary oxide sorbent: Synthesis, characterization and sorption behavior to fluoride and phosphate ions from aqueous solution
Authors: Legese Wubishet , M. Taddesse Abi , Teju Endale
Published: July 2022

ABSTRACT. Excess quantities of fluoride and phosphate in water bodies can lead to fluorosis and eutrophication problems, respectively. In search of a promising adsorbent targeting these ions, Fe3O4/Al2O3/ZrO2 ternary oxide was synthesized via co-precipitation method and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform-infrared (FTIR) and Brunauer-Emmer-Teller (BET). Its specific surface area was found to be 205 m2/g. The effects of solution pH, adsorbent dose, contact time, agitation speed and initial fluoride and phosphate concentrations were also investigated and the optimum values were 4, 0.5 g, 12 h, 100 rpm and 20 mg/L, respectively, for fluoride and 5, 0.1 g, 8 h, 100 rpm and 10 mg/L, respectively, for phosphate. Fluoride and phosphate adsorptions fitted well with Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models, respectively and their kinetic data correlated well with the pseudo-second order model. Desorbability study revealed that maximum desorption was achieved at pH 12. Thermodynamics study on the other hand showed that adsorption of fluoride was nonspontaneous and endothermic whereas that of phosphate was spontaneous and exothermic. Application on real water sample decreased the concentration of fluoride from 4.92 to 1.97 mg/L in ground water and phosphate from 1.7 to 0.35 mg/L lake water showing its potential as a promising adsorbent.

 

KEY WORDS: Adsorption, Fluoride, Phosphate, Ternary oxide sorbent, Isotherm models

 

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2022, 36(3), 555-569.                                                              

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v36i3.6
Polypyrrole–polyaniline-water hyacinth leaf protein concentrate composite for the removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution: kinetics, isotherm and thermodynamic studies
Authors: Yifru Alemayehu , Mekonnen Nibret , Mehretie Solomon , Admassie Shimelis
Published: July 2022

ABSTRACT. This work focused on the extraction of “water hyacinth leaf protein concentrate” (WHLPC) and preparation of polypyrrole (PPy), polyaniline (PANI) and polypyrrole-polyaniline copolymer (PPy/PANI) coated WHLPC by in situ polymerization and investigate their application for the removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution. After optimizing the experimental conditions like pH, adsorbent dosage, contact time and initial concentration it was found that the kinetics and isotherm data were well fitted to the pseudo-second-order and Langmuir models, respectively. PPy/PANI/WHLPC was found to be an efficient material compared to the other polymer-coated adsorbents with maximum adsorption capacity of 230 mg/g. The presence of counter ions ((NO3-, Cl-, HPO42-, SO42+ and HCO3- ions) slightly decreases the Cr(VI) removal efficiency PPy/PANI/WHLPC. The thermodynamic study reveals that the adsorption of Cr(VI) onto PPY/PANI/WHLPC is endothermic, thermodynamically feasible, and spontaneous. In addition, reusability of the material indicated high removal efficiency for two adsorption cycles.

 

KEY WORDS: Polypyrrole, Polyaniline, Protein concentrate, Water hyacinth, Chromium

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2022, 36(3), 571-584.                                                              

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v36i3.7
Effect of phases of the menstrual cycle on biophysical and biochemical parameters of African black women with breast cancer
Authors: Ajayi O. O. , Charles-Davies M. A. , Inetor J. I. , Ademola A. F.
Published: July 2022

INTRODUCTION: Many studies on female breast cancer patients do not consider the differences between the follicular and luteal phases when collecting blood samples for laboratory investigations. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the effects of the phases of the menstrual cycle on reproductive and thyroid hormones, endocrine disruptors, blood pressure, and body adiposity.

METHODS: Participants (n=107) aged 28-50 years, comprising 54 newly diagnosed breast cancer patients (cases were menstrual phase and age-matched to 53 seemingly healthy women without breast cancer that served as controls. Anthropometric indices and blood pressure (BP) were obtained. Serum hormones-estradiol, progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), stimulating follicle hormone (FSH), and free thyroxine (FT4) were quantified by enzyme immunoassay. Endocrine disruptors (EDs)- arsenic, lead and cadmium were quantified by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). Data were analyzed using Student’s t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient with p<0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS: Bodyweight, hip circumference, waist-height ratio, and FT3 varied between the luteal and follicular phases, higher in cases than controls. EDs were significantly higher in cases than controls in both phases. Progesterone, estradiol and LH levels were significantly higher in luteal cases and controls when compared with follicular cases and controls.FT3 was significantly lower in luteal controls compared with follicular controls. There were significant direct and inverse correlations among adiposity measures, BP, EDs, and hormones in each phase in both cases and controls.

CONCLUSION: The menstrual cycle appears to influence blood pressure, measures of adiposity, endocrine disruptors, and reproductive hormones in women with normal and cancerous breasts. This requires consideration in the collection of blood samples for investigations of these parameters.
Uczeni czescy na froncie galicyjskim: doświadczenia historyka sztuki Zdeňka Wirtha i prawnika Emila Svobody
Authors: Ďurčanský Marek
Published: July 2022

Learned Czechs on the Galician front: the experiences of the art historian Zdeňek Wirth and the lawyer Emil Svoboda

The problems of the relations between science and war have belonged recently to the topics which are constantly present in Czech historiography. The same can not be stated, however, with reference to the problems connected with the participation of Czech representatives of the humanities in the Galician campaigns during the First World War. The aim of the article is to look at this topic and present the example of two learned men, who were called up to the front at the mature age of 36 years old as reserve officers. The first part of the text represents an introduction to the situation as well as a description of the basic bibliographic positions. Attention is mainly paid to the negative attitude of Czechs to the War, which had objectives that were in contrast with the Slavic feeling of the majority of Czech society. In a short essay, the perception of Galicia during the War is shown, with Czech soldiers valuing Galician towns more than villages. From a few sources, it can be stated that Krakow made the greatest impression, being regarded as a wonderful town, and its historic character was emphasized. The second part of the article concentrates on the wartime fate of the art historian and conservation specialist Zdeňek Wirth (1878–1961), which has been reconstructed based on correspondence. He was called up to the Galician front as a Landsturm officer (infantry battalion no. 214). He took part in the 1914 campaign, and later found himself mainly working in the support organizations for the front lines in Galicia and Lubelszczyzna, where his organizational and administrative skills were used. During the War (he was relieved of his duties in 1918), Wirth attempted to conduct as much scientific activity as possible; he wrote some articles on the current topics connected with conservation work (the confiscation of bells). He learnt Polish and also read Polish scientific literature. The third part of the article presents the half-year participation of the lawyer and philosopher Emil Svoboda (1878–1948) in the first Galician campaign of 1914–1915. The basic sources of information are his unpublished Memories with their strong anti-military character. Svoboda was also called up for military service as an officer of the Landsturm reserves (infantry battalion no. 213). Svoboda, as a company leader, took part in the fighting around Krakow, later in the offensive near Limanowa and, finally, spent part of the winter in the towns of Nowy Targ and Czarny Dunajec. In February 1915, he travelled to Prague on sick leave, and later was released from the army after an application by the University and Polytechnic of Prague.
Dr med. Stefan Szuman jako lekarz w armii niemieckiej (1914–1919). Przyczynek biograficzny
Authors: Tytko Marek Mariusz
Published: July 2022

Dr Stefan Szuman as a doctor in the German army (1914–1919). Biographical contribution

The author reconstructs the biography of the Polish doctor, Dr Stefan Szuman (1889–1972), later a professor at Jagiellonian University (1928–1961) during his period in the German army (1914–1919). S. Szuman, who acquired the state right to perform the profession of doctor in the German Reich on 7 September 1914, as well as the level of medical doctor on 23 December 1914 at the Faculty of Medicine in the Ludwik Maximilian University of Munich, formally served in the German army in the years 1914–1919. He served as a military doctor on the eastern front in the fight against Russia (from January 1915 until April 1916), firstly in Mazovia and Kujawy, then in Volhynia. Later he served on the western front – from April 1916 until December 1917, on the border between France and Belgium. During the night of 30 November and 1 December 1917 he was heavily wounded in the leg during the Battle of Cambrai in the Nord-Pas-de- Calais region near Raillencourt-Sainte-Olle, next to Cambrai and Bouchain. For his service in the German army, he was awarded the Iron Cross 2nd class medal (at the turn of 1917/1918). After his recovery in Aachen and Torun, he was transferred to serve in the military hospital in the citadel in Hannover (from May until December 1918). After 9 December 1918, he returned to Torun, where he stayed until 17 May 1919, working as a garrison doctor in the clinic of his father – Dr Leon Szuman, still formally an officer in the German army until 19 March 1919 as a citizen of Germany. On 20 May 1919, he was accepted into the Polish Army at the rank of captain in Torun, which was still inside the German partition. On 31 May 1919, S. Szuman illegally crossed the Polish-German border near Torun and succeeded in reaching Wielkopolska.