bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Appraisal Practices and Their Effects on Employees’ Performance in Kenya: A Case of Nairobi City County
Authors: Chepkwony Hillary Kipkoech , Njoroge Jane
Published: July 2019

The main objective of this study was to examine the effects of Performance Appraisal Practices on employees’ performance in public secondary schools in Kenya. Performance appraisal practices are the independent variable and Employees’ performance is the dependent variable. Since 2012, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has been appraising teachers across the country using a system of appraisal whose effectiveness has not been fully tested. Past research findings have depicted the current performance’ appraisal  practices in Kenyan Secondary School’s to exhibit weaknesses, which need to be urgently addressed if it is to improve employees’ performance in Kenya. With these findings, this research sought to analyse the current state of employees’ appraisal practices in Kenya’s Public Secondary Schools. This study examined the key issues related to teacher appraisal in public secondary schools with special reference to Embakasi Sub-county in Nairobi city County, Kenya. The research was anchored on Hardner performance standards theory and the Resource based view theory. The target population consisted of the teachers employed by the Teachers Service Commission and working within Embakasi sub- County. The research adopted census technique in data collection hence there was no sampling of respondents. The study involved 119 respondents for the study which included; 105 teachers and 7 principals and 7 Deputy Principals. Data collection in this study was done using a structured questionnaire. The instrument reliability was tested using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.5 philosophy. Descriptive and inferential statistics were undertaken using SPSS V.22 and the results were used to derive conclusions and make inferences. ANOVA analysis model was fitted to explain the relationship between the independent and the dependent variables. The study recommended that other teacher preparation, the school authorities should ensure conformity with Ministry of Education guidelines on adequate classroom physical space; there should be a regular appraisal of teachers’ responsibility by school authorities as a standard measure of their preparedness prior to service delivery and finally create a conducive environment that enhances teachers’ creativity and innovation.
Operating Environment and Performance of Small and Micro Enterprises in Urban Townships in West Pokot County, Kenya
Authors: Njoroge Allan Njuguna , Bett Shadrack
Published: July 2019

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya have not performed creditably well and hence have not played the expected vital and vibrant role in the economic growth and development of Kenyan economy. This situation has been of great concern to the government, citizenry, operators, practitioners and the organized private sector groups especially because many of the SMEs owners are faced with unpredictable operating environment which presents many entrepreneurs with a challenge of both growing and managing their SMEs consequently affecting SMEs performance. The study aimed at establishing operating environment effects on performance of small and micro enterprises in urban townships in West Pokot County.  The specific objectives of the study included determining the influence of skills and competence, technology, legislations and competition on the performance of small and micro enterprises in urban townships in West Pokot County. The study was anchored on the theory of multi-dimensional performance, goal setting theory and Human capital theory. The target population was drawn from small and micro enterprises owners and managers in the two major townships in West Pokot County that is Kapenguria, and Chepareria Townships. The study was based on descriptive research design where the researcher used stratified random sampling techniques to sample its respondents; Questionnaires were used for the data collection. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were undertaken. Inferential statistics was used to test the extent and nature of the relationship between dependent and independent variables. The correlation results of the study found that SMEs owners/managers skills and competence, technology and competition are positively related to SMEs performance. Results further showed that legislations are negatively related to SMEs performance.SMEs owners/managers skills and competence, legislation, technology and competition were found to be significant variables in explaining SMEs performance which is illustrated by coefficient of determination(R square) of 79.4%.Based on the research findings the study concluded that SMEs owners/managers skills and competence, legislation, technology and competition has a significant relationship with SMEs performance. The study recommends that the financial institutions, NGOs, and Government agencies should work in collaboration in improving SMEs owner’s skills and competence, also technological changes awareness should be provided to the SMEs owners and managers. The Government agencies should come up with friendly policies and regulations to eliminate unhealthy competition towards the SMEs.
The Ambisonic Recordings of Typical Environments (ARTE) Database
Authors: Weisser Adam , Buchholz Jörg M. , Oreinos Chris , Badajoz-Davila Javier , Galloway James , Beechey Timothy , Keidser Gitte
Published: July 2019

Everyday listening environments are characterized by far more complex spatial, spectral and temporal sound field distributions than the acoustic stimuli that are typically employed in controlled laboratory settings. As such, the reproduction of acoustic listening environments has become
important for several research avenues related to sound perception, such as hearing loss rehabilitation, soundscapes, speech communication, auditory scene analysis, automatic scene classification, and room acoustics. However, the recordings of acoustic environments that are used as test material
in these research areas are usually designed specifically for one study, or are provided in custom databases that cannot be universally adapted, beyond their original application. In this work we present the Ambisonic Recordings of Typical Environments (ARTE) database, which addresses several
research needs simultaneously: realistic audio recordings that can be reproduced in 3D, 2D, or binaurally, with known acoustic properties, including absolute level and room impulse response. Multichannel higher-order ambisonic recordings of 13 realistic typical environments (e.g., office,
cafè, dinner party, train station) were processed, acoustically analyzed, and subjectively evaluated to determine their perceived identity. The recordings are delivered in a generic format that may be reproduced with different hardware setups, and may also be used in binaural, or single-channel
setups. Room impulse responses, as well as detailed acoustic analyses, of all environments supplement the recordings. The database is made open to the research community with the explicit intention to expand it in the future and include more scenes.
Spatially Resolved Interstellar Medium and Highly Excited Dense Molecular Gas in the Most Luminous Quasar at z = 6.327
Authors: Wang Feige , Wang Ran , Fan Xiaohui , Wu Xue-Bing , Yang Jinyi , Neri Roberto , Yue Minghao
Published: July 2019

Among more than 200 quasars known at z ≳ 6, only one object, J0100+2802 (z = 6.327), was found hosting a >1010
M
⊙ supermassive black hole. In order to investigate the host galaxy properties of J0100+2802, we performed multi-band ALMA observations, aiming at mapping the dust continuum, [C ii] and CO(6–5) emission lines with subkiloparsec scale resolution, as well as detecting high-J CO lines in CO(11–10), CO(10–9), and CO(7–6). The galaxy size is measured to be R
major = 3.6 ± 0.2 kpc from the high-resolution continuum observations. No ordered motion on kiloparsec scales was found in either the [C ii] or the CO(6–5) emission. The velocity dispersion is measured to be 161 ± 7 km s−1, which is about three times smaller than that estimated from the local M–σ relation. In addition, we found that the CO emission is more concentrated (a factor of 1.8 ± 0.4) than the [C ii] emission. Together with CO(2–1) detected by the Very Large Array (VLA), we measured the CO spectral line energy distribution, which is best fit by a two-component model that includes a cool component at ∼24 K with a density of

cm−3, and a warm component at ∼224 K with a density of

cm−3. We also fit the dust continuum with a graybody model. This indicated that the continuum has either a high dust emissivity β ≳ 2 or a hot dust temperature T
dust ≳ 60 K, or a combination of these two factors. The highly excited CO emission and hot dust temperature suggest that the powerful active galactic nucleus in J0100+2802 could contribute to the gas and dust heating, but future observations are needed to confirm this.
Thermal Conduction Effects on the Accretion–Ejection Mechanism. I. Accretion Flow Investigation
Authors: Rezgui Ghassen , Marzougui Hamed , Woodring Jonathan , Svoboda Jiri , Lili Taieb
Published: July 2019

Understanding the accretion of matter around compact objects such as young stars or black holes remains one of the most interesting problems in astrophysics. Recent observations detected the accretion of matter of several young stars from their circumstellar disk and proposed the existence of the X-ray emission at very high temperature. The hot gases surrounding these systems are likely to proceed under the collisionless regime, which indicates that the thermal conduction has a relevant contribution in the transport of energy along the accretion disks. Notwithstanding its importance, this physical ingredient is largely neglected in previous time-dependent studies of accretion–ejection structure. More research is still necessary before obtaining a complete picture of such a phenomenon. In this series, we have included the three nonideal effects together, viscosity, resistivity, and thermal conduction, to explore the physical mechanism of the disk–jet system. We carry out extensive time-dependent simulations of the accretion disk and jet using the PLUTO code. The mean field approach is used in this work by taking into account the evolution of the disk and jet simultaneously. We show in this first paper how the thermal conduction plays a crucial role in the accretion disk dynamics by presenting a detailed discussion of its effects on the evolution of basic facets of the inflow properties with a special emphasis on the equatorial plane and disk surface. Our model also shows strong indications of the ejection efficiency improvement in the presence of thermal conduction.
Stress Associated Alterations in Dietary Behaviours of Undergraduate Students of Qassim University, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almogbel Ebtehal , Aladhadh Abdulkarim M. , Almotyri Bashayer H. , Alhumaid Ahmad F. , Rasheed Naila
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND: Psychological stress associated eating habits among public health have now become a global concern.
AIM: This study was undertaken to investigate the levels of psychological stress among undergraduate students of Qassim University and to explore the stress associated alterations in their eating habits.
METHODS: This is a cross-sectional survey conducted on 614 undergraduate students of Qassim University, Saudi Arabia. A self-administered questionnaire was used, which included questions on socio-demography and eating habits. Level of stress was measured by a standardised questionnaire highlights the levels of non-chronic stimulation through difficulty relaxing, nervous arousal and being easily upset/agitated, irritable / over-reactive and impatient.
RESULTS: Our results show that 28.2% of total participants suffered from some extent of stress. Among stressed participants, 17.3%, 49.1%, 24.8% and 8.7% of participants suffered from mild, moderate, severe and extremely severe stress, respectively. Stressed participants were more preferred to eat junk foods such as fast foods, snacks and beverages as compared with unstressed participants (p < 0.05) and the junk food preference was increased with the increase of stress levels. Moreover, non-stressed participants preferred more healthy foods such as vegetarian food, fresh fruits as compared with stressed participants (p < 0.05). Taste and easy to access were the main reasons for the preference of junk foods by the stressed participants.
CONCLUSIONS: This is the first comprehensive study from Saudi Arabia to show stress associated dietary alterations in undergraduates of Qassim University. Data concluded that most of the young adults followed a healthy eating pattern, but a significant number from them were affected by stress. Therefore, specific intervention programs are strongly recommended for the reduction of stress and to improve their quality of life.
What You Probably Didn't Know about Biodiversity Information Serving Our Nation (BISON)
Authors: Guala Gerald
Published: July 2019

Biodiversity Information Serving Our Nation (BISON - bison.usgs.gov) is the US Node application for the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and the most comprehensive source of species occurrence data for the United States of America. It currently contains more than 460 million records and provides significant augmentation and integration of US occurrence data in terrestrial, marine and freshwater systems. Publicly released in 2013, BISON has generated a large community of stakeholders and they have passed on a lot of questions over the years through email (bison@usgs.gov), presentations and other means. In this presentation, some of the most common questions will be addressed in detail. For example: why all BISON data isn't in GBIF; how is BISON different from GBIF; what is the relationship between BISON and other US providers to GBIF; and what is the exact role of the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS - www.itis.gov) in BISON.
Regional Approach to Biodiversity Information Management and Reporting in Southeast Europe
Authors: Velagić-Hajrudinović Azra
Published: July 2019

Featuring a large variety of ecosystems, abundant freshwater and forest resources, unique extensive karstic systems, and a high level of biodiversity and endemism, Southeast Europe (SEE) plays a crucial role in the conservation of biodiversity in Europe and beyond. In order to conserve and sustainably use these biodiversity assets and valuable natural resources, a regional concerted approach in the field of biodiversity information management and reporting (BIMR) has been strengthened. This has enabled improvement in access, transparency and exchange of biodiversity data and reporting processes among the participating economies.

Certain significant and visible progress among SEE economies and stakeholders is due to to the knowledge gained about regional and national BIMR baselines, agreed and elaborated minimum Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and European Union (EU) requirements on BIMR among stakeholders and implemented BIMR tools (e.g., a regionally unified fundamental database for the Information System for Nature Conservation (ISNC), for instance in Montenegro (http://zasticenapodrucja-cg.tk//en), Bosnia and Herzegovina/entity of Republika Srpska (http://e-priroda.rs.ba/en/) and entity of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and North Macedonia (Standard Data Form - SDF application for NATURA 2000) and compiled dataset on five taxonomic groups of endemic taxa using the Darwin Core standard). Therefore, BIMR activities/priorities from the region have become more evident and supported along with ownership of BIMR tools acquired by the partner institutions and recognized at the global level through the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF).
Applying Strategic Leadership in Educational Contexts
Authors: O'Connor Johnny R.
Published: July 2019

This chapter provides a professional perspective of the relevance and necessity of strategic leadership in PK-12 settings. As school systems continue to evolve, it will be paramount that school leaders are strategic in the way they lead. Specifically, school leaders must be deliberate and thoughtful in the decisions they make, in order to ensure maximum success. This has become even more important in a high-stakes environment in which student scores and organizational efficiency is often linked to job performance. This type of leadership employs a multifaceted approach, which requires leading through a variety of contexts, as well as recognizing and leveraging the ability to effectively collaborate and make intentional decisions that are evidenced-based. If the aforementioned traits are balanced and appropriately executed, educational leaders will be well positioned to experience significant and positive outcomes.
Strategic Curriculum Planning
Authors: Epler Pam
Published: July 2019

This chapter is designed to inform and educate the reader about the strategic curriculum planning as well as various types of curriculum designs and models. The chapter explains what strategic planning is and the various components of the plan, and provides a sample format to follow. The chapter continues with a discussion about three different curriculum designs, subject-focused, learner-focused, and problem-focused, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. The chapter finishes with a discussion about numerous curriculum models and the school leader's role in strategic planning.
Leadership in Rural Central American Villages
Authors: Oliveras-Ortiz Yanira , Hickey Wesley D. , Jones Jennifer S.
Published: July 2019

Educational leaders in rural schools across the world face distinctive challenges. In this chapter, the authors report the findings of two studies examined through narrative inquiry conducted in a Garifuna and Ketchi Mayan village in Central America. The case studies explore the role of the principal as a strategic leader to improve the education system, and the impact of these leaders in their communities. By sharing these stories, the authors illustrate the importance of strategic thinking, as well as both transformative and servant leadership to promote change.
Leveraging P-12/University Partnerships to Better Prepare Pre-Service Teachers
Authors: Falco James , Riddle Meredith , Duffy Gregory , Mulvaney Tracy , Niecz Lauren
Published: July 2019

The primary responsibility for training pre-service teachers previously fell solely on the shoulders of university teacher-preparation programs, with a short field experience component in partner P-12 districts. As research continues to support the value of increased clinical practice in P-12 schools when training pre-service teachers, the responsibility is becoming shared equally between university teacher education programs and P-12 school districts. This chapter describes three innovative programs implemented by P-12 schools through strong partnerships with Monmouth University's teacher education and Provisional Teacher Preparation program. These strong partnerships afford students the opportunity to receive direct instruction in P-12 settings with the support of curriculum, mentors and professional development. The partnership with Lafayette Mills School (the last of three initiatives discussed) was also awarded, along with the university's other PDSs, the National Association of Professional Development Schools Distinguished Partnership award in 2017.
School Inspection for Quality Leadership, Teaching, and Learning in South Africa
Authors: Mampane Sharon Thabo
Published: July 2019

South African secondary schools have gradually increased access to a diverse number of students, but that has not led to a related increase in student success. Several factors contribute to low throughput and pass rates, and these include, among others, poor leadership, under-preparedness of students to pursue their education, lack of effective instruction, and inadequate access to student support services. The above-mentioned factors are important, but the key to improving throughput and pass rates in secondary education lies in ensuring quality leadership for effective teaching and learning through school inspection. Teaching and learning should be informed by institutional approaches that translate leadership into effective teaching and learning practices and learning support for students. This chapter will address school inspections as well as identify the constraints and enablers of leadership for teaching and learning to improve student performance.
The Sustainable Falcon
Authors: Webb Heather , Liu Shubo
Published: July 2019

It has become vital to understand the economic, environmental, and social impact “going green” has on the region as well as on the interlinked relationship between sustainable consumption and production. This chapter focuses on Dubai's green growth strategy and the process for anticipating success while comparing its policy and initiatives to other major cities. In addition, the chapter reviews current regulations along with low carbon initiatives as part of Dubai's green, sustainable development. As Dubai prepares for Expo 2020, the city is focusing on generating sustainable, green innovations. Indeed, climate change has shaped the need for cities and countries to be more aware of their surroundings, and Dubai is no exception in developing a fully, sustainable city to become a green, economic leader.
The Characteristics of SMEs in Dubai and Their Impact on Innovation
Authors: Chaita Mercy Veronica
Published: July 2019

This chapter explores the extent and characteristics of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Dubai and their innovative practices. Within this context, considerable emphasis is placed on evaluating the propensity of these SMEs to adopt new technology. SMEs are significant to the local entrepreneurship and innovation activities as well as improving competitiveness. Furthermore, these enterprises play a crucial role in job creation and are fundamental to economic growth. The connection between economic success in SMEs is fundamental since these firms are able to incorporate innovation into their operations and organizational practices.
Entrepreneurship in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Okasha Ahmad A.
Published: July 2019

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has developed a young, vibrant, and innovative economy. The UAE is ranked 11th in the ease of doing business globally according to the 2018 world bank report on the ease of doing business. The UAE is ranked the first in the Arab World in terms of ease of doing business. The UAE has achieved this amazing ranking and is approaching the top 10 global economies in terms of ease of doing business. According to Arab Youth Survey, the UAE was selected as the top country Arab youth wish to live in. The UAE became even more attractive than the USA for Arab youth. The survey explores where young aspiring individuals in the Arab countries would like to live and work. Historically, many young individuals in the Arab region, excluding gulf countries, fancy immigrating and working in the US, Canada, Europe, or Australia. They were aspiring for a better live and better economic conditions. In the recent survey, Dubai and the UAE topped the traditional immigrant attractive countries.
Using Health Psychology to Inspire Entrepreneurial Innovation in Dubai
Authors: Okasha Nada
Published: July 2019

Being an entrepreneur encompasses a number of traits. Used as an “umbrella term,” it constitutes self-motivation, leadership, resilience, proactivity, creativity, and a sense of light-hearted preparation to deal with potential failure in different aspects of the startup. These individual traits are prevalent in most people; however, it is the combination of them, alongside sound physical health and access to social resources that allows an entrepreneur to enjoy success in due time. Psychological theory and practice may inform techniques in developing and facilitating what it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur. Specifically, health psychology explains how individuals' unique biological, psychological, and social factors, as informed by biopsychosocial theory, together produce adaptive or maladaptive behaviors. To translate this for the context of entrepreneurship, only an individual, who is physiologically healthy or otherwise manages their physical condition well, might enjoy entrepreneurial success.
Who Am I as a Healthcare Provider?
Authors: Umoren Rachel , Rybas Natalia
Published: July 2019

The U.S. healthcare delivery system relies on the formation of ad hoc teams of experienced, highly trained providers of various specialties. The providers work in interprofessional teams that converge to address situations around acute patient care. Various models of virtual training provide structured opportunities for interprofessional education, whereby learners engage with roles and responsibilities essential for their professions and active collaboration with other team members. This learning is transformative as it influences the development of professional identity and teamwork skills needed for successful collaborative practice in interprofessional teams. This chapter explores the role of training healthcare professional students using virtual simulations and the emerging potential of virtual and augmented reality for health professional education.
Cognitive Apprenticeship for Teaching Computer Science and Leadership in Virtual Worlds
Authors: Calongne Cynthia , Stricker Andrew G. , Truman Barbara , Arenas Fil J.
Published: July 2019

Cognitive apprenticeship refers to the development of skills under the guidance and tutelage of a domain expert. This chapter covers the theory and highlights 10 years of virtual learning experiences and 52 classes using the cognitive apprenticeship model. It reflects on the impact of presence and explores how learning communities develop as students assume roles and learn by working next to skilled faculty. The examples reinforce the value of deep immersion and identity in situated learning. The software design activities illustrate the benefits experienced when students assume ownership and structure their activities. Through self-reflection, learners illustrated the power of design thinking through group and individual design studios. The chapter concludes with observations from 400 eighth graders and reflections on future work in the design of sustainable learning programs for computer science and leadership education.
The Politico-Poetic Representation of Turkish Women in Türk Kadını Magazine (1966–1974)
Authors: Tepe Fatma Fulya
Published: July 2019

This chapter aims to explore the ways women are represented in the context of 20th century Turkey by analyzing four poems, namely “Türk Kadını” (Turkish Woman), “Anadolu Kadını” (Anatolian Woman), “Kadın–Ana” (Woman-Mother), and “Ayşe,” published in the Türk Kadını magazine in the 1960s. Purposive sampling was used in the selection of the poems, which were later interpreted with the strategies of descriptive content analysis. In these poems, the Turkish woman is being represented and celebrated in at least the following four ways: (1) by being celebrated for combining heroism, goodness, and naturalness; (2) by having her struggle with primitive conditions of life celebrated as yet another form of heroism; (3) by being celebrated as a creative mother of the nation, charged with finding solutions to the problems of the country; (4) by being celebrated as a hardworking daughter of the nation to whom the country owes recognition and support.
A Rebellion Against the Metallization of the Female Body
Authors: Nazlı Rengim Sine
Published: July 2019

Media is used as an important tool in the uniformization of the female body metallized on the axis of consumption culture. Ads are of special importance in order for these bodies, which are standardized by media bodies, to reach every segment of the society. The beauty measures of each period are introduced with these films as the main determinant for women to be happy. Moreover, these measures, which are a means of domination, can cause illnesses in which women sometimes lose their lives. In such an environment, Unilever's Dove, a personal care brand, launched a campaign called mark Beyond Figures. It continued to act with this approach in advertising films. In this study, it is aimed to determine how women analyze advertising films beyond the figures. The interviews that will be evaluated in the context of coding, criterion will be examined by reception analysis.
Man, Masculinity, and Violence in Turkish Cinema After 2000
Authors: Gültekin Gökhan
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study is to trace the relationship between male, masculinity, and violence in Turkish films after 2000. For this purpose, action, adventure, political, and drama films featuring Kenan İmirzalıoğlu, the pioneering anti-hero of male violence in popular Turkish films between 2000-2010 were focused. Thus, the sample of the study was composed of Deli Yürek: Bumerang Cehennemi (2001), Yazı Tura (2004), Kabadayı (2007), and Ejder Kapanı (2010) films. In all of these films Yusuf, Cevher, Devran, and Celal acted by İmirzalıoğlu use intense violence in the name of honor, power, and virility. Starting from such observation, the study has endeavored to make an interpretation on appearance of the relationship among man, masculinity, and violence based on the type, orientation, perspective and purpose of violence in the films, included the sample since the 2000s. In pursuit of such meaning first, it will be useful to mention the relationship among violence, man, and masculinity.
Functional outcome of the upper limb after stroke
Authors: Blake P. F. , Fritz V. U.
Published: July 2019

Is movement regained in the hemiplegic arm after stroke translated into useful function in daily activity? As no answers could be found in the literature it was decided to investigate an effective method of assessing and measuring spontaneous use of the arm, the extent to which voluntary movement correlated with spontaneous and observed use, and aspects of neurological deficit which could adversely affect upper extremity function.A test battery was drawn up and administered to seven stroke patients, all of whom had some recovery of the hemiplegic upper limb.Results of the tests indicated a generally positive correlation between motor function and spontaneous and observed use, respectively, thus fulfilling the second aim of the study. The correlation also suggests that the first aim was met and that the tests were effective in what they were designed to evaluate.Small sample size limited the conclusions which could be drawn from the results of other sub-tests. Indications were that the outcome for spontaneous use of the hemiplegic arm is poorer in patients with non-dominant hemisphere lesions. Handedness in association with dominance also appears to play a part in better outcome for dominant hemisphere lesions.In spite of the positive correlation between motor function and spontaneous use, it was felt that comprehensive evaluation of upper extremity function should be extended to include automatic use.
Orthopaedic manipulative physiotherapy in South Africa
Authors: Uys M. S. , Diener J. H.
Published: July 2019

To ensure effective patient care, all members of the health team should review professional competency and standards of service provision. A questionnaire was sent to all members of the orthopaedic Manipulative Therapists group (OMTG) to establish their qualification and skills, and the scope of practice of Orthopaedic Manipulative Therapy (OMT) physiotherapists. It included a short self and peer review. The results of this study urge the NEC of the OMTG to address pertinent issues that were raised: post-graduate study, international trends, research, dissemination of knowledge, quality assurance, professional image and prophylactic programmes in a primary health care system.
The effects of feedback in isokinetic dynamometry: Effects of visual feedback and verbal encouragement on peak torque and total work values in knee extensors testing
Authors: Van Herp Guy , Shah Ahmad
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of visual feedback and verbal encouragement on peak torque and total work measurements during maximum isokinetic concentric activation of knee extensors. Twenty-seven healthy male subjects between the age of 19 and 42 completed the two test sessions 14 days apart using an isokinetic dynamometer at 60°/s and 450°/s. Visual feedback was provided as real-time display of the moment output. Verbal encouragement was done using a standardised procedure. With visual feedback and verbal encouragement peak torque and total work at both speeds were significantly greater than without.These findings suggest that combined visual and verbal encouragement are strong motivating factors. It is therefore recommended to use feedback and verbal encouragement as part of a standardised procedure during isokinetic testing.
The importance of a comprehensive assessment in the treatment of thoracic pain
Authors: Fuller-Good Susan L.
Published: July 2019

A case study is presented where unilateral left subscapular pain was treated by mobilisation to the first lumbar segment, as assessment according to the Maitland concept revealed this to be the source of pain. In the treatment of spinal pain, assessment needs to be systematic and where necessary, should include the whole spine, if treatment is to be specific and effective1.
Boundaries, spectral triples and $K$-homology
Authors: Forsyth Iain , Goffeng Magnus , Mesland Bram , Rennie Adam
Published: July 2019

This paper extends the notion of a spectral triple to a relative spectral triple, an unbounded analogue of a relative Fredholm module for an ideal

J\triangleleft A

. Examples include manifolds with boundary, manifolds with conical singularities, dimension drop algebras,

\theta

-deformations and Cuntz–Pimsner algebras of vector bundles.

The bounded transform of a relative spectral triple is a relative Fredholm module, making the image of a relative spectral triple under the boundary mapping in

K

-homology easy to compute. We introduce an additional operator called a Clifford normal with which a relative spectral triple can be doubled into a spectral triple.

The Clifford normal also provides a boundary Hilbert space, a representation of the quotient algebra, a boundary Dirac operator and an analogue of the Calderon projection. In the examples this data does assemble to give a boundary spectral triple, though we can not prove this in general.

When we do obtain a boundary spectral triple, we provide sufficient conditions for the boundary triple to represent the

K

-homological boundary. Thus we abstract the proof of Baum–Douglas–Taylor's "boundary of Dirac is Dirac on the boundary" theorem into the realm of non-commutative geometry.
Platelet-Rich Plasma in Cosmetic Surgery
Authors: Seth Rahul , Kang Robert S , Lee Matthew K , Keller Gregory S
Published: July 2019

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is blood plasma containing an above baseline level of platelets and growth factors. PRP is an emerging new treatment utilized to enhance wound healing and has been in clinical use over the last several decades within many disciplines, such as orthopedic, oral-maxillofacial and cardiac surgery. Recently, PRP has come to the attention of esthetic surgeons, with burgeoning new applications ranging from hair restoration to soft tissue augmentation. The goal of this review is to describe the current body of literature on PRP as it pertains to the field of esthetics, and to review its current real-world applications. PRP's utility in cosmetic surgery is rapidly growing and offers a promising and exciting new therapeutic modality.
Management of the Internal Nasal Valve
Authors: Li Shia Ng , Stephen Lo
Published: July 2019

Nasal obstruction is one of the most common nose complaints. Internal nasal valve dysfunction is an important cause of nasal obstruction, particularly in patients who have a previous history of nasal trauma or reduction rhinoplasty. Correct assessment is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management planning. Various surgical and nonsurgical modalities for addressing the problem of internal nasal valve collapse are being reviewed in this paper. Each technique have their own advantages and disadvantage, and the choice depends on the underlying pathology, patient preference, availability of graft material. The rhinoplasty surgeon should have a thorough understanding of the available options as part of his/her armamentarium in dealing with internal nasal valve pathology.
Large and Long Standing Cavernous Hemangioma of Cheek
Authors: Verma Hitesh
Published: July 2019

Cavernous hemangiomas are relatively rare vascular malformations especially in an adult. The childhood hemangioma generally regresses spontaneously. We present the case report of a 52-year-old male patient, who had a hemangioma from the childhood and it had grown to such a large size so as to cause extreme cosmetic deformity for the patient. The long standing duration of almost 45 years and the extremely large size of the hemangioma make it a very rare case.
A Series of Two Cases of Intraoral Malignancies in Patients with Xeroderma Pigmentosa
Authors: Mahuvakar Ankit Dilip , Meshram Darshan Premdas , Ambulgekar Vijayalaxmi Kisanrao , Shaikh Mohsin Abdul Nabi , Sameer Mohammad A
Published: July 2019

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized by an increased frequency of skin cancer following minimal sunlight exposure.

Multiple basal cell carcinomas and other skin malignancies frequently occur at a young age in those with XP. In fact, metastatic malignant melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the two most common causes of death in XP victims.

This series represent rare presentations of malignancies in non-sun-exposed areas in such patients.
Surgical Incisions: Balancing Surgical and Cosmetic Outcomes in Head and Neck Oncosurgery
Authors: Tubachi Jagadish , Jainkeri Vivek , Gadagi Vinay , Gunari Prasad
Published: July 2019

The oral and oropharyngeal cancer surgery is challenging due to presence of carotid arteries, internal jugular vein and cranial nerves in close proximity to the primary tumor or matastatic lymph node. So surgical incisions should be planned to improve oncologic resection without compromising functional and esthetic outcomes. Macfee and Crile's incision are commonly used in present day oncologic practice. Extension and probable modification of these incisions depending on case scenerio are discussed.
Pleomorphic Adenoma of the Nasal Septum
Authors: Tejendrasingh Thakur Rahul , Laxmanrao Sonawale Sanjay Kumar
Published: July 2019

Pleomorphic adenoma is a common, benign tumor arising from the major salivary glands, most commonly from the parotid gland. In addition, they may also occur in the minor salivary glands of the hard and soft palate. Intranasal pleomorphic adenomas are unusual and may be misdiagnosed because they have greater myoepithelial cellularity and fewer myxoid stromata compared to those elsewhere. We report a case of pleomorphic adenoma of the nasal cavity arising from the nasal septum.
Ultrasound as a Useful Diagnostic Tool in the Follow-up of Laryngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Klinge Kathleen , Mueller Andreas
Published: July 2019

Background

Using neck ultrasound to evaluate the status of the lymph nodes of a patient with a head and neck cancer is common practice but laryngeal ultrasound could help to receive more information of the tumor.

Methods and results

We report a case of an initially T1a N0 M0 G2 R0 squamous-cell carcinoma of the right vocal cord. Despite regular follow-up, the relapse of the tumor remained undetected. The hypopharyngoscopy and laryngoscopy were performed. The tumor was evaluated with laryngeal ultrasound and to confirm the relapse of the tumor a MRI scan was performed. Endoscopically there was no obvious presence of the tumor. Laryngeal ultrasound facilitated the visualization of the tumor in good quality.

Unfortunately, a total laryngectomy was necessary to treat the relapse of the squamous-cell carcinoma (T4a N0 (0/16) M0 G2 R0).

Conclusion

Despite careful follow-up via laryngoscopy a relapse of the laryngeal tumor was not visible. Using laryngeal ultrasound, the relapse might have been detected sooner.
Imbalance and Falls in Elderly: Review of Literature
Authors: Chauhan Yogendra Singh
Published: July 2019

The purpose of review is to emphasize on the causes and assessment of elderly with imbalance and fall. Rising elderly population in future leading to increase in falls episode and associated injury will bring neurologists, otolaryngologists, cardiologists, psychiatrists, orthopedicians and occupational therapists under one umbrella for the management of elderly with balance disorder. This will increase in interspeciality mutualism and understanding ultimately leading to achieve goal to help our elderly to have better life.
Giant Myxoid Osteoma of the Frontoethmoidal Region
Authors: Elsheikh Ezzeddin , Rifai Mohamed , Elnashar Ismail Seddik , Abdelaziz Hesham
Published: July 2019

Although they are relatively rare, osteomas are the most frequent benign neoplasm of the paranasal sinuses. When they are large or symptomatic, surgical intervention through open or endoscopic approaches is required. The association between osteoma and myxoma is rarely addressed in the literature and myxoid degeneration of osteomas is not known. We report a case of a giant frontoethmoidal osseous lesion in a 52 years old man which was completely removed through an open approach. Histological examination of the removed mass revealed an osteoma with a myxoid component.
Extramedullary Plasmacytoma of Head and Neck Region: Report of Six Cases with Different Localizations
Authors: Öztürk Kerem , Şahin Mustafa , Midilli Raşit , Gürsan Gülce , Özsan Nazan , Savaş Recep
Published: July 2019

Extramedullary plasmacytoma (EMP) is a rarely seen neoplasm of plasma cells which may be locally destructive by involving submucosal soft tissues of upper respiratory tract but without systemic dissemination. It comprises less than 1% of head and neck malignities. Clinical presentation depends on tumor's effect and its involvement site. Diagnosis is made with histopathologic examination of tissue biopsy. Responses to its treatment with local radiotherapy and surgery are similar. In this article; it is intended to update our knowledge regarding EMP and remind this rarely encountered disease by presenting various cases detected in nasopharynx, tonsil, buccal mucosa, larynx, mastoid cavity and sphenoid sinus, with literature line.
Neurofibromatosis II
Authors: Sharma Rashmi , Kalsotra Parmod , Gupta Rohan , Gupta Nitika , Gupta Ghanshyamdev
Published: July 2019

Neurofibromatosis type II is an inherited autosomal dominant syndrome, characterized by multiple neoplasms of the central and peripheral nervous system associated with ocular abnormalities. The most common tumor associated with the disease is the vestibulocochlear schwannoma, and as many as 10% of patients with this tumor have neurofibromatosis type 2. In this report, we aim to present a 36-year-old female who presented with chief complaints of unilateral tinnitus, and, during her workup, which included cranial and whole spine magnetic resonance imaging, we found bilateral acoustic neuroma with multiple meningiomas. Based on clinical and imaging findings, the diagnosis of neurofibromatosis type 2 was made.
Effects of Radiotherapy on Auditory and Vestibular Function
Authors: Nilakhe Sachin Sharad
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Radiotherapy either primary or adjuvant, is a commonly used modality of treatment in head and neck malignancies. The audiovestibular apparatus is often within the fields of radiation treatment, and hearing loss is a possible complication. This study was undertaken to assess the audiovestibular functions in patients undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck malignancies to determine the type and severity of hearing loss and vestibular dysfunction following radiation therapy.

Materials and methods

Fifty patients with head and neck malignancies reported to the malignant disease treatment center of INHS Asvini and received radiotherapy as a primary modality of treatment or in combination with surgery during the period May 2003 to Sep 2004 were included in this study. None of these patients had prior treatment by chemotherapy.

Conclusion

A significant number of patients who were subjected to radiation therapy for head and neck malignancies develop conductive hearing loss is predominant in the immediate postradiation period. Conductive hearing loss is reversible and improves with the conservative line of treatment. Sensorineural hearing loss more commonly affects the higher frequencies and is more common in older patients. Sensorineural hearing loss is more common when radiation doses exceed 60 Gy. There is no conclusive evidence of vestibular dysfunction in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancers.
Glial Heterotopia of Sphenoid in Association with a Patent Sternberg's Canal presenting with Meningitis
Authors: Suma R , Jeena KJ , Pavithran VM , Govindan A
Published: July 2019

Ectopic glial tissue, presenting at various sites of body is a rare embryonic developmental anomaly. Very few cases are reported in adults, most being incidentally detected, revealed only by histopathological findings. One of the rarest locations is the sphenoid sinus.

We present here the case of a middle aged female, presenting with spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea and meningitis. With the radiological finding of a soft tissue density in sphenoid sinus with erosion of left temporal skull base, she underwent lateral craniotomy, with excision of the mass and middle cranial fossa floor repair. Histopathology revealed a heterotopic glial tissue. Peroperative finding of a well-defined defect in the lateral wall of an extensively pneumatized sphenoid showed typical features of a patent Sternberg's canal.

This case could be a living proof for the existence of this rare developmental anomaly. A persisting Sternberg's canal should be considered as the source of spontaneous CSF leaks with or without lesions in sphenoid sinuses with extensive lateral pneumatization. Most of the cases may be treated with an extended endoscopic approach. Extreme lateral lesions like this would benefit most from a craniotomy approach for proper closure of skullbase defect. Three years after successful surgery, she remains symptom free.
Bone Morphogenic Protein - A short communication
Authors: SINGH GANESH. R.
Published: July 2019

‘Todav is the tomorrow of yesterday’. We pray the almighty for departed soul to rest In peace. The support provided by GANESH for BMP project was highly appreciable. Thank you, CODS PERIO FAMILY
Anxiety Measurements among Dental Students undergoing Third Molar Removal
Authors: Pattanshetti Channaveer , Desai Rajendra
Published: July 2019

Background and objective

This study was conducted to quantify the anxiety associated with third molar extraction in dental students. And to compare the anxiety levels between males and females, among impacted and non-impacted groups.

Methods

The study included 100 dental students who reported to Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Dental Sciences, requiring mandibular third molar removal. Only those patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. The anxiety levels were evaluated based on the scores of the Corah's Dental Anxiety Scale.

Results

Results showed scores among female patients was higher than males; however the difference between male and female patients was statistically not significant. Among impacted and non-impacted groups score was higher among the impacted group, but the difference between impacted and non-impacted groups was statistically not significant too.

Conclusion

To conclude, maxillofacial surgeons should consider patients who visit dental offices for third molar impaction surgery as most prone to anxiety which could either result from conditioning or learned responses from their peers. Noteworthy, prior awareness of the patient's psychologic makeup and susceptibility to anxiety may be of value, thus enabling appropriate therapy and improved recovery postoperatively.