bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends in Medicare Reimbursement for Orthopedic Procedures: 2000 to 2016
Authors: Eltorai Adam E. M. , Durand Wesley M. , Haglin Jack M. , Rubin Lee E. , Weiss Arnold-Peter C. , Daniels Alan H.
Published: March 2018

Understanding trends in reimbursement is critical to the financial sustainability of orthopedic practices. Little research has examined physician fee trends over time for orthopedic procedures. This study evaluated trends in Medicare reimbursements for orthopedic surgical procedures. The Medicare Physician Fee Schedule was examined for
Current Procedural Terminology
code values for the most common orthopedic and nonorthopedic procedures between 2000 and 2016. Prices were adjusted for inflation to 2016-dollar values. To assess mean growth rate for each procedure and subspecialty, compound annual growth rates were calculated. Year-to-year dollar amount changes were calculated for each procedure and subspecialty. Reimbursement trends for individual procedures and across subspecialties were compared. Between 2000 and 2016, annual reimbursements decreased for all orthopedic procedures examined except removal of orthopedic implant. The orthopedic procedures with the greatest mean annual decreases in reimbursement were shoulder arthroscopy/decompression, total knee replacement, and total hip replacement. The orthopedic procedures with the least annual reimbursement decreases were carpal tunnel release and repair of ankle fracture. Rate of Medicare procedure reimbursement change varied between subspecialties. Trauma had the smallest decrease in annual change compared with spine, sports, and hand. Annual reimbursement decreased at a significantly greater rate for adult reconstruction procedures than for any of the other subspecialties. These findings indicate that reimbursement for procedures has steadily decreased, with the most rapid decrease seen in adult reconstruction. [
Orthopedics.
2018; 41(2):95–102.]
Service Learning as an Approach to Combatting the Triad of Interrelated Diseases in the District of Columbia
Authors: Jean-Baptiste Anne Marie , Asongwed Elmira T.
Published: March 2018

The maintenance of good health and wellness for individuals and communities depend on the provision of opportunities to prevent health problems and improve their basic health and well-being. The traditional learning approach in the nursing profession is based on individual and curative models of care. However, combating the interrelated triad of heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension that affect a large percentage of younger and older adults in the District of Columbia calls for a paradigm shift of learning toward a collective and social approach such as service-learning. The purpose of this chapter is to illustrate how interprofessional and multi-disciplinary practices are used to tackle health issues and explain how the pedagogical approach, with social and preventive directions, led to the development and sustainable community partnerships in all eight wards of the District of Columbia.
Criminal Justice Senior Theses, Capstones, and Internships on Recidivism Reduction Advocacy Strategies
Authors: Dorch Edwina Louise
Published: March 2018

Each year, thousands of inmates are released from jail and prison. This chapter provides a model for HBCU faculty and students to conceptualize the coordination of services for those who have been incarcerated. The model proposes that faculty and students consider five types of actors: (1) advocacy group coalitions; (2) public agencies; (3) private employment entities; (4) faith-based nonprofits; and (5) philanthropists, secular nonprofits, and foundations. The model proposes that housing, healthcare, and employment are proximal goals that reduce recidivism, a distal goal. Additionally, the model proposes that local advocacy coalitions become prime-movers seeking maximum feasible participation through a series of self-reliance initiatives. Further, the model provides the names of data bases that can provide advocacy coalitions with performance measures to judge their own effectiveness. Senior students in Section 2: Crime, Justice, and Security Studies are taught this model in their research methods, program evaluation, and senior paper classes.
Print Media's Role in Securitization
Authors: Uprety Sudeep
Published: March 2018

This chapter attempts to understand the inter-relationship between the media and the national security/foreign affairs sector in Nepal, particularly unfolding the perceptions between each other and the resultant impression in the print media – thereby carrying forward the “securitization” discourse. Through the process of content analysis and expert opinions, this chapter advocates for the “desecuritization” of sensitive issues such as national security and diplomacy, promoting peace and cooperation rather than polarization of ideas and perspectives.
Differential Diagnosis of Erythematous Squamous Diseases With Feature Selection and Classification Algorithms
Authors: Çetin Aydın , Gökhan Tuba
Published: March 2018

In this chapter, the differential diagnosis of erythematous diseases was determined using data mining and machine learning algorithms. In this chapter, data mining and its application to differential diagnosis of erythematous squamous diseases were discussed. A dermatology dataset from UCI Machine Learning Repository was used for the study. The dataset consists of 366 data items with 34 attributes. Initially, feature selection was made, and then classification was performed by using various algorithms. The number of attributes has been reduced from 34 to 19 as a result of the integration of the correlation-based filter methods and various heuristic search methods. The evaluation results show that Naive Bayes has 100% success rate in classification of psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, lichen planus, rose disease, chronic dermatitis, and pityriasis rubra pilaris diseases with 19 attributes selected with feature extraction algorithms.
Artificial Intelligence Ethics in Biomedical-Engineering-Oriented Problems
Authors: Pavaloiu Alice
Published: March 2018

The field of artificial intelligence has recently encountered some ethical questions associated with the future of humankind. Although it is a common question that has been asked for years, the existence of humankind against badly configured intelligent systems is more important nowadays. As a result of rapid developments in intelligent systems and their increasing role in our life, there is a remarkable anxiety about dangerous artificial intelligence. Because of that, some research interests gathered under some topics like machine ethics, future of artificial intelligence, and even existential risks are drawing researchers' interest. As associated with this state, the objective of this chapter is to examine ethical factors in using intelligent systems for biomedical-engineering-oriented purposes. The chapter firstly gives essential information about the background and then considers possible scenarios that may require ethical adjustments during design and development of artificial-intelligence-oriented systems for biomedical engineering problems.
Deep Learning and Biomedical Engineering
Authors: Sawant Suraj
Published: March 2018

Deep learning (DL) is a method of machine learning, as running over artificial neural networks, which has a structure above the standards to deal with large amounts of data. That is generally because of the increasing amount of data, input data sizes, and of course, greater complexity of objective real-world problems. Performed research studies in the associated literature show that the DL currently has a good performance among considered problems and it seems to be a strong solution for more advanced problems of the future. In this context, this chapter aims to provide some essential information about DL and its applications within the field of biomedical engineering. The chapter is organized as a reference source for enabling readers to have an idea about the relation between DL and biomedical engineering.
Role of Clustering Techniques in Effective Image Segmentation
Authors: Kaur Bhavneet , Sharma Meenakshi
Published: March 2018

Image segmentation is gauged as an essential stage of representation in image processing. This process segregates a digitized image into various categorized sections. An additional advantage of distinguishing dissimilar objects can be represented within this state of the art. Numerous image segmentation techniques have been proposed by various researchers, which maintained a smooth and easy timely evaluation. In this chapter, an introduction to image processing along with segmentation techniques, computer vision fundamentals, and its applied applications that will be of worth to the image processing and computer vision research communities has been deeply studied. It aims to interpret the role of various clustering-based image segmentation techniques specifically. Use of the proposed chapter if made in real time can project better outcomes in object detection and recognition, which can then later be applied in numerous applications and devices like in robots, automation, medical equipment, etc. for safety, advancement, and betterment of society.
Mullins' Self-Similar Grooving Solution Revisited
Authors: Derkach Vadim , Novick-Cohen Amy
Published: March 2018

In W.W. Mullins' classical 1957 paper on thermal grooving, motion by surface diffusion was proposed to describe the development of a thermal groove separating two grains in a simple semi-infinite planar geometry. After making a small slope approximation which is often realistic, Mullins' sought self-similar solutions, and obtained an explicit time series solution for the groove depth. In the years since, Mullins' grooving solution has become a standard tool; however it has yet to be rigorously demonstrated that self-similar solutions exist when the small slope approximation is not applicable. Here we demonstrate that reformulation of Mullins' nonlinear problem in arc-length variables yields a particularly simple fully nonlinear formulation, which is useful for verifying large slope grooving properties and which should aid in proving existence.
The Role of Interfaces in Evolution of Structure and Thermal Stability of Cu-Nb Composite Processed by High-Pressure Torsion
Authors: Popova E.N. , Deryagina I.L. , Valova-Zaharevskaya E.G. , Stolbovsky Alexey V.
Published: March 2018

The structure and thermal stability of Cu-18Nb multicore composite fabricated by repeated cold-drawing of in situ melted mixture of Cu and Nb and subjected to high-pressure torsion (HPT) have been studied by SEM, TEM, X-ray analysis and microhardness measurements. In the cold-drawn state ribbon-like Nb filaments the thickness of 30-70 nm are located in Cu-matrix with sharp texture <110>Nb║<111>Cu║drawing axis. The Nb lattice is distorted, the interplanar spacing (110)Nb being extended along the drawing axis and compressed perpendicular to it, which testifies a semi-coherent character of Cu/Nb interfaces. At annealing these distorsions gradually vanish, and coagulation of Nb ribbons starts at 400С, actively develops at 600С and finishes at 800С with the formation of sausage-like filaments with round transverse sections, which is accompanied with about two-fold decreasing of microhardness. Under the HPT the composite structure is considerably refined, and almost equiaxed grains the sizes of 20-30 nm are formed, which gives rise to a dramatic increase of microhardness. The thermal stability of Cu-Nb composite after cold drawing and HPT is appreciably higher than that of pure Nb and Cu nanostructured by severe plastic deformation.
Properties of Species Profiles during Oxygen Chemical Diffusion in Oxides
Authors: Sinder Misha
Published: March 2018

This is a theoretical study of species profiles during the oxygen chemical diffusion in an acceptor doped oxide crystal driven by large changes in the ambient oxygen partial pressure. The oxide crystal containing three species: mobile oxygen vacancy, mobile electron, immobile dopant ion, is considered. Our analysis is based on the expression of the chemical diffusion coefficient obtained in the framework of the concept of conservative ensembles (Maier J., 1993). It is shown that the dependence of chemical diffusion coefficient on ambient oxygen partial pressure in double-logarithmic coordinates is divided into distinct intervals. For each pressure interval the chemical diffusion equation is reduced to the diffusion equation with a diffusion coefficient which exhibits a power dependence on concentration. First, we analyzed the chemical diffusion under pressure inside each interval. As a result two singularities on the species diffusion profiles can be found: an internal reaction diffusion front, and an ambipolar diffusion front. This ambipolar diffusion front is characterized by a step of the electron concentration, moving inside a specimen. Afterwards, we consider a crystal in which the range of partial pressure spans all considered pressure intervals.
Influence of Ion Nitriding Regimes on Diffusion Processes in Titanium Alloy Ti-6Al-4V
Authors: Agzamov Rashid D. , Tagirov Ainur F. , Ramazanov Kamil Nurulaeyevich
Published: March 2018

The paper reports on the results of two-stage-experiments of low-temperature ion nitriding of the Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy in a non-self-sustained high-current arc discharge and in a glow discharge under various conditions. The diffusion of nitrogen into the interior of the material was determined by the thickness of the layer being modified. It was established that the depth of the nitrided layer greatly depends on temperature, composition of the working medium, as well as on process duration. When treated in non-self-sustained high-current arc discharge, the depth of the nitrided layer increases from 4 to 17 μm, and in the glowing discharge the depth increases from 9 to 13 μm. The nitriding temperature affects the sign and magnitude of the residual stresses.
Heat Transfer and Phase Formation through EBM 3D-Printing of Ti-6Al-4V Cylindrical Parts
Authors: Popov Vladimir , Katz-Demyanetz Alexander , Bamberger Menachem
Published: March 2018

3D-printing or additive manufacturing (AM) is a group of novel intensively developed production processes, through which a "printed" object is fabricated layer-by-layer in a desired intricate geometrical shape with following joining it into a monolithic bulk by means of electron beam (EB) or laser beam (LB) melting. The present study is concentrated on the production of simple-shaped (cylindrical) Ti-6Al-4V alloy samples by Electron Beam Melting (EBM). During the rapid cooling of as-printed material's layer, martensitic structure is formed while suppressing of material's diffusivity. Effect of heat transfer conditions on the microstructure and properties obtained has been investigated. Heat transfer modelling and simulation was done utilizing the ABAQUS software package. The microstructure of the obtained material has been characterized by means of SEM and XRD. Microhardness have been also determined and correlated with the simulation results.
Tracer Diffusion and Ordering in FCC Structures - Stochastic Kinetic Mean-Field Method vs. Kinetic Monte Carlo
Authors: Bezpalchuk Volodymyr , Abdank-Kozubski Rafał Leszek , Pasichnyy Mykola , Gusak Andriy
Published: March 2018

Recently developed method of atomistic modelling (SKMF) is applied to order-disorder transitions in FCC alloys and to tracer diffusion in the ordered L12 structure. Results correlate with Kinetic Mote-Carlo modelling. Difference of diffusion activation energies of two species is found. Activation energy of ordering is close to one of minority component diffusion.
Effect of Equal Channel and Dynamic Channel Angular Pressing of Ni and Further Heat Treatment on its Structure and Grain Boundary Diffusion
Authors: Popov Vladimir V. , Reglitz Gerrit , Shorohov Evgeniy V. , Popova E.N. , Stolbovsky Alexey V. , Divinski Sergiy V. , Wilde Gerhard
Published: March 2018

Formation of microstructure in Ni under equal-channel angular pressing (ECAP) and dynamic channel-angular pressing (DCAP), its thermal stability and diffusion properties of grain boundaries are investigated. Grain boundary diffusion in the ultrafine-grained Ni is found to be significantly faster than in the coarse-grained Ni, which indicates a 'non-equilibrium' (deformation-modified) state of grain boundaries in the former. The effect of non-equilibrium state of grain boundaries on the level of internal stresses is analyzed.
The Timber-Precast UHPC Composite Connection
Authors: Holý Milan , Vrablik Lukáš
Published: March 2018

This paper deals with the connection of timber beams and precast concrete slabs. The connection of timber and concrete has many advantages associated with the efficient use of both materials, not only in terms of their stress. Timber is a natural renewable material. It can be achieved some savings of volume of the concrete by its application and thereby also reducing of the environmental burden. By the combining of the timber and ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC), it can be designed very subtle, bearable, aesthetic and durable structures. The conventional timber-concrete composite structures are most often realized by joining of the timber beams and the cast in-situ reinforced concrete slabs. However, the cast in-situ slab is not very suitable for UHPC application and it has some structural disadvantages, in particular the need to protect the timber beams against moisture penetration from the fresh concrete mix, the need for formwork, etc. The prefabrication eliminates some disadvantages of the cast in-situ design, increases the quality of the structure and speeds up the construction process. In the case of the timber-concrete composite structures, the prefabrication has a positive impact on the reduction of the concrete shrinkage projections as the development of deflections and the redistribution of internal forces between the connected parts of the cross-section. Some special coupling elements must be used for connection in the case of precast slabs. This paper summarizes the research findings in the field of development of special coupling elements for composite timber-precast concrete structures. The development of the new coupling elements for pedestrian and cyclist timber-UHPC composite footbridges is presented.
Observation of the Development of the Elastic Modulus and Strength in a Polymer-Cement Mortar Using the Acoustic Emission Method
Authors: Kocáb Dalibor , Topolář Libor , Kucharczyková Barbara , Pőssl Petr , Hoduláková Michaela
Published: March 2018

The paper describes an experiment focused on observing the development of the elastic modulus and compressive strength in a polymer-cement mortar during the first 28 days of aging. The specimens (aged 3 and 28 days) were tested for the static and dynamic modulus of elasticity using two methods – the ultrasonic pulse velocity test and the resonance method. During the test of the modulus of elasticity in compression the mortar’s behaviour was also examined by means of the acoustic emission method, which is based on the recording of mechanical pulses caused by dilation waves generated by microcracks that form during loading. The outcome of the experiment is an evaluation of the polymer-cement mortar’s behaviour in terms of the development of its elastic modulus and compressive strength as well as in terms of the material’s acoustic response during loading.
Lung Disease and Genomics
Authors: Wysocki Kenneth
Published: March 2018

Research and application of genomic medicine in lung disease during the past century has clarified our understanding and focus on specific phenotypes, helping clinicians tailor treatment for individual patients. Cystic fibrosis and lung cancer have been researched extensively; specific genotypes have been instrumental in precision medicine to treat these lung diseases. Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are more complex and heterogeneous in their pathogenesis, genotypic profile, and phenotypic expression, making treatment more difficult with increasing disease severity. This article focuses on the evolving state of the science of precision medicine in lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and cystic fibrosis. The body of knowledge in lung disease is growing related to pharmacogenomics, clinical guidelines, genome editing, and approaches to genomic health that will guide clinical treatment options, reduce risk, and promote health.
Residual Neuromuscular Blockade in the Critical Care Setting
Authors: Stawicki Nicole , Gessner Patty
Published: March 2018

Residual neuromuscular blockade is a widespread challenge for providers in the acute care setting that, if left unrecognized or untreated, places patients at higher risk for morbidity and mortality. The condition is estimated to occur in 26% to 88% of patients undergoing general anesthesia. The role of the advanced practice nurse in the acute care setting is to facilitate a safe recovery process by identifying early signs of deterioration and supporting the patient until full muscular strength has returned. This article discusses the prevalence of residual neuromuscular blockade and associated complications and patient risk factors. A review is included of the current uses for neuromuscular blockade, pathophysiology of the neuromuscular junction, pharmacologic characteristics of neuromuscular blocking agents (including drug-drug interactions), monitoring modalities, and effectiveness of reversal agents. Treatment recommendations pertinent to residual neuromuscular blockade are outlined.
Genomics and Precision Medicine: Implications for Critical Care
Authors: Kessler Christine
Published: March 2018

A new paradigm for disease diagnosis and treatment is emerging that will bring about changes in health care delivery in and out of the hospital setting. Over the past several decades, genomic medicine has been one of the fastest growing fields in acute and chronic health care. This quick growth has created a lag in genomics knowledge and preparation among nurses and health care providers. Genomic medicine may lead to more precise evaluation, diagnosis, and management of selected acute care conditions. This article reviews the current state of genetic and genomics science and looks at the expanding field of genomic medicine’s integration into precision medicine. The aim of this article is to raise awareness and spark further inquiry to the remarkable field of genomics and precision medicine.
Antioxidant activity and antimicrobial properties of Entada leptostachya and Prosopis juliflora extracts
Authors: Ruto Mercy C. , Ngugi Christine M. , Kareru Patrick G. , Cheruiyot Kipyegon , Rechab Sylvester O. , Madivoli Edwin S. , Mutembei Jackson K. , Kairigo Pius K. , Maina Ernest G.
Published: March 2018

Background: Natural phytoconstituents produced by plants for their sustenance have been reported to reduce disease.Objectives: This study determined the phytoconstituents, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of crude methanolic extracts of Entada leptostachya and Prosopis juliflora extracts.Methodology: Antioxidant activity was determined using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and β-carotene assays; the total phenolic and flavonoid were estimated using Folin–Ciocalteau and aluminium chloride, whereas antimicrobial activity was determined using the zone of inhibition method.Results: Screening of the extracts revealed the presence of terpenoids, flavonoids, saponins and phenols. Fourier transform infrared spectra of the extracts revealed presence of hydrogen bonded –OH functional group. E. leptostachya barks had the highest antioxidant activity followed by P. juliflora roots, E. leptostachya roots and P. juliflora leaves [μg/mL]. Prosopis juliflora (roots) had the highest bleaching effect, whereas E. leptostachya (barks) had the lowest bleaching effect. The total flavonoids were determined to be 0.15 ± 0.02 mg/g, 1.18 ± 0.18 mg/g, 0.39 ± 0.05 mg/g and 0.64 ± 0.03 mg/g for E. leptostachya roots, E. leptostachya barks, P. juliflora leaves and P. juliflora roots extracts, respectively. The total phenols were determined to be 0.93 ± 0.18 mg/g, 2.69 ± 0.41 mg/g, 0.62 ± 0.08 mg/g and 0.62 ± 0.08 mg/g for E. leptostachya roots, E. leptostachya barks, P. juliflora roots and P. juliflora leaves extracts. All plant extracts exhibited moderate activity against the growth of selected microorganisms.Conclusion: Antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of the two plants was as a result of secondary metabolites found in the crude extracts.
Investigation of Early Vocabulary Development of a Persian Speaking Child at Age 2 Years Old in Iran
Authors: SHAHHOSEINI Hajar
Published: March 2018

This study investigates the development of early Persian vocabulary in the process of first language acquisition in case of an Iranian child at age 2. The child was named Melica in this paper and her speech was observed for the period of 6 months. The outcomes show that Melica could produce about 150 words and understand many more when she was 2 years old. Also she understood such meanings as “on”, “under”, and “in”. At that age, she mostly produced nouns, which represented more than half of her vocabulary. Observed for a period of six months, Melica showed a gradual development in word as well as in sentence production, though some discrepancies in the use of certain words, such as developmental errors and overextensions, were also reported.
Metaphor in Translation: Cognitive Perspectives on Omar Khayyam’s Poetry as Rendered into English and Kurdish
Authors: VEISI HASAR Rahman , PANAHBAR Ehsan
Published: March 2018

As cognitive linguistics puts it, metaphor as a cognitive phenomenon can not be relegated to linguistic expression. Therefore, in order to analyze metaphor in translation, cognitive translation hypothesis investigates its translatability and metaphorical equivalence at the conceptual level. However, in such case, the conceptual metaphor is dealt with without considering its significant relationship to the cultural models. Based on Cienki’s theory (1999) postulating that the relation of the conceptual metaphor to the cultural model is similar to that of a profile to a base, and that the possibility of the interpretation and production of the conceptual metaphor depends on the cultural model, the present research reinvestigates the cognitive translation hypothesis from this perspective. The research findings reveal that translators have mostly been successful in translating metaphors dependent on shared cultural models, however, have failed to recreate metaphors dependent on non-shared cultural models. Accordingly, same mapping condition and different mapping condition are strongly dependent on the relationship between metaphors and cultural models. Thus SMC and DMC should be redefined in relation to cultural model.
Prevajanje Ko Unove poezije iz korejščine v slovenščino
Authors: VUČKOVIČ Eva , KANG Byoung Yoong
Published: March 2018

Pišem v zrak je zbirka pesmi korejskega pesnika Ko Una, ki je bila avgusta lani prevedena v slovenščino. Zbirka zajema izbrane pesmi, ki jih je pesnik napisal v zadnjih petnajstih letih. Ko Unova poezija je na videz enostavna, a pesmi pogosto vsebujejo skrita sporočila, ki jih avtor želi predati bralcu. Pesmi se dotikajo različnih tem, med njimi najdemo pesmi o naravi, budistične pesmi, pesmi, ki namigujejo na politično situacijo v sodobni korejski družbi, kritiko sodobnega človeka itd. Oblikovanje pesmi kaže na to, da jih Ko Un ne želi postavljati znotraj forme. Verz je svoboden, zdi se tudi, da pesnik ponekod načrtno prelomi verz na dve vrstici, to naredi ravno zato, da kljubuje normam poezije. Zapletene metafore, prepletanje tradicionalnega in sodobnega jezika ter besedne igre so bolj pomembni kot sama oblika pesmi. Nemogoče je našteti vse težave, na katere smo naleteli med prevajanjem  zbirke, saj bi morali analizirati vsako pesem posebej, zato smo v tem članku obravnavali le najbolj očitne in največje probleme, ki smo jih imeli pri prevajanju poezije iz korejščine v slovenščino. Večina jih je nastala zaradi strukturnih razlik med korejskim in slovenskim jezikom, veliko pa jih je nastalo tudi zaradi besedišča in kulturnih razlik. Večkrat smo se spraševali, koliko svobode imamo kot prevajalci in do kolikšne mere lahko pesem spremenimo in hkrati obdržimo vse namige, ki jih je pesnik poskušal prenesti bralcu.
Ancient Greek Legend in Modern Japanese Literature: “Run, Melos!” by Dazai Osamu
Authors: GANTAR Lija
Published: March 2018

Dazai Osamu (1909-1948), a modern Japanese writer, wrote “Run, Melos!” in 1940. The short story is a rework of an Ancient Greek legend of Damon and Pythias from the 4th century B.C., which was introduced to Dazai through Schiller’s version of the legend, “The Hostage”. The legend, based on a true event, represents the perfect friendship and was reworked a number of times by different antique writers. After having been forgotten for a while, it reappeared in the Middle Ages as a fictional story and has gotten many new adaptations from then on. One of them was Schiller’s ballad in 1798, which – alongside an anecdote from Dazai’s own life – represented the basis for Dazai’s story. Even though “Run, Melos!” is not an autobiographical work, Dazai managed to pass his own feelings onto the characters, add some biblical elements, and included a never-before-employed dark twist in the story, thus making his version more realistic than the preceding ones. Despite the distance in time and place between him and the legend, with “Run, Melos!”, Dazai managed to retell a Western literature story, making it a part of the Japanese literature as well, adding motifs and themes influenced by his own life, time, and place.
Revisit adjective distribution in Chinese
Authors: LI Wenchao
Published: March 2018

This study re-classifies Chinese monosyllabic adjectives and verbs in light of ‘scale structure’. It examines how various adjectives are associated with different scalar layers of verbs. The investigation focuses upon direct perception expressions and resultatives. The finding reveals that the closed-scale perceptual verb jiàn ‘see’ does not tolerate open-scale APs. This is because, (a) syntactically, Chinese perception verb complements do not represent a result state as the AP-complement is encoded into the perception verb root; (b) semantically, jiàn ‘see’ not only represent an accomplishment predication but contributes to a potential indirect perception, describing the observer’s evaluation of the perceived event.kàn ‘look’ is open-scale and is likely to render a direct perception report. The degree of kàn’s associations with different APs runs from ‘Totally open-scale AP’, down to ‘Upper closed-scale AP’, ‘Lower closed-scale AP’, ‘Totally closed-scale AP’. Resultatives seem to welcome all layers of adjectives. Various APs may match with a transitive verb, an unergative verb, a light verb or an unaccusative verb. This is down to the fact that, resultative complements are framed outside the verb roots and thus, do not receive restriction from the verb.
Chinese as a Foreign Language in Slovene Upper Secondary Education and Outline of Curriculum Renewal
Authors: PETROVČIČ Mateja
Published: March 2018

This paper presents the position of Chinese in Slovene educational system. In most European countries, including Slovenia, the first foreign language is introduced in the lower grades of primary education, and the second foreign language as a compulsory subject is added a few years later, when students enter upper secondary education (ISCED 3). At the same time, the third foreign language may be added to the regular courses. Schools choose languages from a set list, and Chinese is one of the languages that can be taught at the ISCED 3 level. It is not available as second foreign language yet, but Chinese can be selected as a third foreign language. Recently, new initiatives have emerged to endorse Chinese as a second foreign language. The last part of the paper briefly highlights language curricula within the gimnazija programs and proposes the renewal of Chinese curriculum with four modules that provide horizontal and vertical continuity from ISCED 2 to ISCED 6.
Current State of Japanese Language Education in Serbia and Proposal for Future Solutions
Authors: TRIČKOVIĆ Divna
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this paper is to address the state of the education system in Serbia in relation to Japanese language studies, with a particular focus on primary and secondary educational institutions. To start off, I will introduce the institutions where the Japanese language is being taught in Serbia, before turning my attention to the teaching programs (i.e. course guidelines as an accredited national guideline). Following that, I will present our Japanese language textbook writing projects. Finally, I will shed light on the problems we have faced and propose a number of potential solutions.
Poučevanje tujih jezikov v slovenskem šolskem sistemu: prostor tudi za japonščino?
Authors: STRAUS Bronka
Published: March 2018

V prispevku so na kratko osvetljene jezikovnopolitične usmeritve nekaterih za Slovenijo pomembnih mednarodnih organizacij, v nadaljevanju pa tudi položaj in vloga tujih jezikov v slovenskem šolskem sistemu tako v osnovni kot v srednji šoli. Kot zadnji tuji jezik je bila v predmetnik osnovne in srednje šole vpeljana kitajščina. V prispevku je podrobno opisano, kako je to vpeljevanje potekalo s strokovnega, organizacijskega in sistemskega vidika. Hkrati je podan tudi trenutni uvid v poučevanje kitajščine v slovenskem šolskem sistemu. Sistemsko umeščanje kitajščine je bil kompleksen in dolgotrajen proces, ki pa lahko predstavlja eno od izhodišč za razmislek o uvajanju japonščine.
Los cambios de rol en los festivales de cine de animación. Crónica desde Animafest-Zagreb
Authors: Benavent Rocio
Published: March 2018

Los festivales de animación y sus funciones empiezan a ser protagonistas en los análisis y estudios internacionales sobre la animación. Desde 2013, dentro del festival Animafest-Zagreb y como parte complementaria de este, se creó el Scanner Symposium for Contemporary Animation Studies, un lugar de debate e intercambio de ideas sobre animación. La cuarta edición del simposio, en 2017, tuvo como objetivo crear sinergias e interacciones entre los enfoques más teóricos y los prácticos, para generar nuevos discursos y estimular intercambios entre los cineastas-creadores y los estudiosos-académicos del sector de la animación. Se trata de uno de los pocos encuentros de este tipo que se celebran a nivel mundial, y en esta ocasión se trataron temas como las relaciones entre cómics y la animación, la animación en la mente o los nuevos medios, realidad virtual y web. Pero las ponencias más interesantes y que nos motivaron a asistir fueron las que trataron sobre el desarrollo y el cambio de roles de los festivales de animación y su papel tan importante en el apoyo de este apreciado arte.
De Top Cat a Don Gato: acerca del doblaje de animación
Authors: Orfila Jorgelina , Ortega-Grimaldo Francisco
Published: March 2018

De todas las animaciones de Hanna-Barbera, Top Cat (1961-1962) fue, y sigue siendo, ampliamente popular en México como Don Gato y su Pandilla. Al adaptar el libreto y dar voz a los personajes, traductores y actores de voz locales aseguraron el éxito de la serie, cuya historia se centra en los fallidos planes para enriquecerse de seis gatos callejeros de la ciudad de Nueva York. Aunque su condición marginal facilitó la atracción del público, fueron la traducción y el doblaje los que aseguraron su incondicional aceptación en México al trasformar estos gatos en personajes fácilmente asimilables. Don Gato ilustra cómo los países latinoamericanos logran apropiarse de los productos hegemónicos norteamericanos para difundir temáticas locales: mientras el componente visual se mantiene inalterado, el diálogo y las voces de los personajes son, inconfundiblemente, mexicanos.
Evolution and Current Status of Arthroscopic Surgery in India
Authors: Dhillon Mandeep , Cheema Udai , Rajan David , Chouhan Devendra K
Published: March 2018

Arthroscopic surgeries are worldwide accepted modality to surgically treat the intraarticular injuries and ailment. The introduction and evolution of the same in our country was little late; however, an exponential improvement was observed in last one decade. Specialized workshops, conferences, and courses are the main sources for the learning and upgradation of surgical skills in this field.

How to cite this article

Rajan D, Dhillon MS, Cheema U, Chouhan DK. Evolution and Current Status of Arthroscopic Surgery in India. J Postgrad Med Edu Res 2018;52(1):22-25.
Desmoid Tumor: Rare Abdominal Wall Lump in a Multiparous Woman
Authors: Khandelwal Niranjan , Prakash Mahesh , Garg Mandeep , Prabhakar Nidhi , Dahiya Divya
Published: March 2018

Background

Desmoids are rare tumors. Abdominal wall desmoids are more common in women of reproductive age, especially postpartum women. Here we present a case of desmoid tumor in a 37-year-old multiparous woman, who came with the complaint of a slowly growing painless abdominal lump.

Case report

A 37-year-old multiparous female presented with the complaint of a gradually increasing, painless abdominal lump. On physical examination, a well-defined, firm, mobile mass was palpated in the suprapubic region. Ultrasound revealed a homogeneous hypoechoic lesion in the right anterolateral abdominal wall. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen showed a well-defined homogeneous mass in relation to the inferior aspect of right rectus abdominis muscle. These clinical and imaging features were highly suggestive of abdominal wall desmoid, which was confirmed on fine needle aspiration cytology and postoperative tumor histopathology.

Discussion

Desmoids are uncommon benign, locally aggressive fibrous lesions that have an insidious course. Conventionally, these are classified as abdominal desmoids (occurring in abdominal wall, mesentery, or retroperitoneum) and extra-abdominal desmoids (affecting shoulder girdle, trunk, lower extremities, etc.). The definitive diagnosis of desmoid has to be established on histopathology. Wide local excision remains the definitive treatment of abdominal wall desmoids. Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and endocrine therapy are the other treatment options.

How to cite this article

Garg M, Prabhakar N, Prakash M, Dahiya D, Khandelwal N. Desmoid Tumor: Rare Abdominal Wall Lump in a Multiparous Woman. J Postgrad Med Edu Res 2018;52(1):31-33.
Electrophysiological Improvement Pattern in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by Ultrasonic Therapy
Authors: Das Pallab , Kataruka Mohit , Haldar Rathindranath
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) was effectively treated by lots of conservative management that includes splints, exercise, different types of heat modality like ultrasonic therapy (UST), etc. This is our humble attempt to explore and find out electrophysiological improvement pattern after treatment with UST in CTS. This analytical study was conducted at the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR), Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (IPGMER), SSKM Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, from January 15, 2012 to July 15, 2013.

Materials and methods

After getting Institutional Ethical Committee clearance, patients with symptoms of nerve compression at wrist were included in the study group according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Ultrasound treatment was administered 15 minutes per session for 15 days to the palmar carpal tunnel area at a frequency of 1 MHz and intensity of 1.0 W/cm2, pulsed mode, with a transducer of 5 cm2. The patients were examined after intervals of 2, 4, and 8 weeks postintervention.

Results

The results of our study suggest that there was marked improvement in all the clinical parameters. The same significant improvement was also found in electrophysiological parameter.

Conclusion

Ultrasonic therapy is one of the effective modalities of treatment for CTS.

How to cite this article

Kataruka M, Pramanik R, Das P, Haldar R. Electrophysiological Improvement Pattern in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by Ultrasonic Therapy. Indian J Phy Med Rehab 2017;28(3):106-109.
Regional preparedness for mass acetylcholinesterase inhibitor poisoning through plans for stockpiling and interhospital sharing of pralidoxime
Authors: Broach, MD, MPH, MBA, FACEP John , Krupa, BS Robert , Bird, MD, FACEP, FACMT Steven B. , Manuell, MA, MD, FACEP Mary-Elise
Published: March 2018

Background: Regional preparedness efforts related to the stockpiling and interhospital sharing of critical antidotal medications is an important topic in the age of terrorism and weapons of mass destruction. Little attention has been paid to how well regional preparedness efforts specifically affect availability of pralidoxime (2-PAM) if it were needed to treat a mass poisoning with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (organophosphorus pesticides or nerve agents).Objectives: The authors sought to assess whether hospitals in one region of Massachusetts (Department of Public Health Region 2, Central Massachusetts) have adequate plans for responding to a large number of patients requiring 2-PAM as might occur after the intentional release of nerve agents or organophosphorus chemicals into a civilian population or the food or water supply. Methods: The Massachusetts DPH Region 2 contains 10 acute care hospitals including one level 1 Trauma Center that is also the only tertiary care hospital in the region. A 13-question online survey was used to assess three important components of 2-PAM availability: 1) the amount of 2-PAM available, 2) regional medication sharing activities, and 3) attitudes and awareness of resources available in the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS).Results: Seven of 10 hospitals participated in the survey (response rate 70 percent). Of these seven hospitals, only 2 (28.5 percent) had any 2-PAM on hand (4 and 6 g). Despite the existence of a region-wide memorandum of understanding that includes medication sharing, only two hospitals’ responses included awareness of this agreement. Two hospitals had considered the problem of inadequate 2-PAM supplies before receiving the survey. Five of 7 (71.4 percent) hospitals would consider accessing the SNS if the need for antidotes were exceeded by their own supply. Conclusion: Recognition of regional planning for sharing of antidotes such as 2-PAM is lacking in the surveyed region and could lead to inability to care for large number of patients affected by an intentional or accidental large-scale release of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors.
Willingness to respond for radiologic incidents: A hands-on approach
Authors: Ludtke, MD, MS John Richard , Narayan, MPH Roopsi , Matariyeh, MPH Ameer , Brannen, PhD Donald , Caudill, RN, MPH Kim , Howell, MS, MBA, MPH, RN, RS Melissa , Hines, MSES Stephanie
Published: March 2018

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention published two Radiological Terrorism Toolkits: Public Health Officials (PHTK) and Emergency Services Clinicians (ESCTK). The study consisted of training public health workers and Medical Reserve Corps volunteers to rate 10 distinct virtual survivors each and route them through a Community Reception Center (CRC) pretraining and post-training. The training's effect on the rater's radiation medical knowledge and willingness to respond (WTR) was also measured. Correctly routed survivors increased from a baseline 3.6-5.3, of 10 survivors per rater for the PHTK, and to 5.7 for the ESCTK (p = 0.000). Medical knowledge increased from a baseline of 50 percent to 66.7 percent for the PHTK (nine raters) and to 71.4 percent for the ESCTK (seven raters) (p = 0.000). WTR regardless of severity increased from 34.8 percent to 54.4 percent for the PHTK (p = 0.046). Odds of correctly routing survivors decreased with perception of confidence (0.569, 95% CI 0.375-0.863), while perceptions of preparedness (2.1, 1.4-3.2) and prior training increased the odds (1.8, 1.05-3.16). When taking into account raters unwillingness to respond, the odds of correctly routing survivors decreased with perceptions of confidence in detector use (0.556, 0.365-0.846), with confidence to process persons through a CRC (0.390, 0.215-0.709), and by training with the ESCTK (0.252, 0.12-0.53), while perceptions of preparedness (18.7, 8.4-41.6), and demonstrated medical knowledge (20, 3.26-122) increased ability to correctly route survivors. These findings support the local use of PHTK training to develop surge capacity for a radiological emergency and suggest the interaction between the level of confidence and medical knowledge be studied further.
Three years experience with forward-site mass casualty triage-, evacuation-, operating room-, ICU-, and radiography-enabled disaster vehicles: Development of usage strategies from drills and deployments
Authors: Griffiths, RN, BAN, MHP Jane L. , Kirby, ASM, MPH, B Bus HRD, BA, Ass Dip App Sc (Ambulance) Neil R. , Waterson, RN, BA (Hons), M. Med Ed James A.
Published: March 2018

Objective: Delineation of the advantages and problems related to the use of forward-site operating room-, Intensive Care Unit (ICU)-, radiography-, and mass casualty-enabled disaster vehicles for site evacuation, patient stabilization, and triage. Setting: The vehicles discussed have six ventilated ICU spaces, two ORs, on-site radiography, 21 intermediate acuity spaces with stretchers, and 54 seated minor acuity spaces. Each space has piped oxygen with an independent vehicle-loaded supply. The vehicles are operated by the Dubai Corporate Ambulance Services. Their support hospital is the main trauma center for the Emirate of Dubai and provides the vehicles' surgical, intensivist, anesthesia, and nursing staff. The disaster vehicles have been deployed 264 times in the last 5 years (these figures do not include deployments for drills).Interventions: Introducing this new service required extensive initial planning and ongoing analysis of the performance of the disaster vehicles that offer ambulance services and receiving hospitals a largearray of possibilities in terms of triage, stabilization of priority I and II patients, and management of priority III patients.Preliminary results: In both drills and in disasters, the vehicles were valuable in forward triage and stabilization and in the transport of large numbers of priority III patients. This has avoided the depletion of emergency transport available for priority I and II patients.Conclusions: The successful utilization of disaster vehicles requires seamless cooperation between the hospital staffing the vehicles and the ambulance service deploying them. They are particularly effective during preplanned deployments to high-risk situations. These vehicles also potentially provide self-sufficient refuges for forward teams in hostile environments.
The pulmonary consequences of sandstorms in Saudi Arabia: A comprehensive review and update
Authors: Samarkandi, PhD, RN Osama A. , Khan, MBBS, MHA, SBEM Anas A. , Alazmy, MSc Waleed , Alobaid, MSc Abdullah M. , Bashatah, PhD, RN Adel S.
Published: March 2018

Sandstorms represent a major natural hazard in the Arabian Peninsula. Their pulmonary consequences can be life-threatening, especially to those with a history of allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Novel presentations of respiratory diseases caused by sandstorms can now be traced to specific chemical and organic components of sandstorms. We present an update of the pathophysiology of pulmonary conditions based on the results of clinical and epidemiologic research as well as from greater knowledge of the complex chemical composition of sandstorms. This has led to more precise therapeutic approaches to severe respiratory illnesses and a greater understanding of risk factors for morbidity and mortality due to Arabian sandstorms.