bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A tool for efficient and accurate segmentation of speech data: announcing POnSS
Authors: Rodd Joe , Decuyper Caitlin , Bosker Hans Rutger , ten Bosch Louis
Published: August 2020

Despite advances in automatic speech recognition (ASR), human input is still essential for producing research-grade segmentations of speech data. Conventional approaches to manual segmentation are very labor-intensive. We introduce POnSS, a browser-based system that is specialized for the task of segmenting the onsets and offsets of words, which combines aspects of ASR with limited human input. In developing POnSS, we identified several sub-tasks of segmentation, and implemented each of these as separate interfaces for the annotators to interact with to streamline their task as much as possible. We evaluated segmentations made with POnSS against a baseline of segmentations of the same data made conventionally in Praat. We observed that POnSS achieved comparable reliability to segmentation using Praat, but required 23% less annotator time investment. Because of its greater efficiency without sacrificing reliability, POnSS represents a distinct methodological advance for the segmentation of speech data.
THE CONTRIBUTION OF REGIONAL AIRPORTS ON TOURISM ENTERPRISES. THE PERSPECTIVE OF TRIPOLI AIRPORT, IN GREECE
Authors: Marinakos Konstantinos , Poulaki Ioulia
Published: August 2020

Air transport and tourism development are considered to be two closely related concepts. According to international literature, one of the most important modes of passenger transport around the world is air transport, thus affecting the economic development of many areas, especially those isolated geographically and touristically, as well as local tourism businesses. Understanding the scale of these impacts is important not only for the development of tourism businesses and the local economy, but also for policy makers who make strategic decisions. Most studies focus on the impact of large airports on the national and regional economy, while much less attention has been given to the impact of airports on regional destinations. This study, exploring the potential of the Tripoli military airport in Greece as a civilian airport, seeks to analyse the functional relationship between small regional airports and local tourism businesses, the results of which can contribute to the financial planning and organization of a destination.
Phoretic copulation in the velvet ant Sphaeropthalma pensylvanica (Lepeletier) (Hymenoptera, Mutillidae): A novel behavior for Sphaeropthalminae with a synthesis of mating strategies in Mutillidae
Authors: Waldren George C. , Roberts Jason D. , Pitts James P.
Published: August 2020

Phoretic copulation, a form of phoresy in which a male physically transports a female by flight and/or foot from their initial site of contact before mating, is newly recorded in the Nearctic velvet antSphaeropthalma pensylvanica(Lepeletier, 1845) (Hymenoptera: Mutillidae). Further, this is the first record of the behavior in the species-rich subfamily Sphaeropthalminae. A description of theS. pensylvanicamating observation and photographs are provided. All published observations of copulation events in Mutillidae are critically reviewed in the context of mating strategy, and new terminology is proposed for the mating strategies currently known to occur in the family.
Teaching Ethics in Classroom Settings: Nursing Faculty Perceptions in Baccalaureate Programs
Authors: Grason Sharon
Published: August 2020

Background:

The complexity of the current health care system has resulted in increasing demands on nurses to act as patient advocates and moral agents. Understanding faculty's experiences teaching ethics is instrumental to deliver ethically competent care. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of nursing faculty teaching ethics content in the classroom setting to prelicensure baccalaureate nursing students.

Method:

This qualitative, descriptive phenomenological design asked 11 nursing faculty with recent experience teaching ethics within prelicensure baccalaureate nursing programs to complete qualitative interviews.

Results:

Participants expressed the importance of teaching ethics in undergraduate nursing curricula but experienced significant challenges. Three main themes were identified in the data analysis: Lacking Prior Preparation, Difficult Content, and No Place Holder for Ethics Content.

Conclusion:

Intentional curriculum design incorporating ethics content is necessary for the preparation of prelicensure nursing students, along with formal and informal opportunities for faculty to explore ethics including philosophical underpinnings.

[
J Nurs Educ
. 2020;59(9):506–509.]
“Get Connected”: Integrating Telehealth Triage in a Prelicensure Clinical Simulation
Authors: DeFoor Melissa , Darby Wendy , Pierce Vicki
Published: August 2020

Background:

The integration of telehealth simulation experiences enables nursing students to effectively care for postnatal clients through interactive video technologies.

Method:

Faculty created a telehealth postnatal triage simulation in response to a need for client interaction due to COVID-19 social isolation restrictions.

Results:

Telehealth triage is an inexpensive, engaging teaching strategy and formative assessment method that can be easily created with existing resources and implemented in a postnatal simulation experience.

Conclusion:

Faculty concluded that this telehealth simulation experience is valuable in meeting student clinical learning outcomes and its continued use after social restrictions are removed is recommended. In the future, effectiveness of the simulation experience should be studied and measured along with incorporation of inter-and intraprofessional collaboration activities.

[
J Nurs Educ
. 2020;59(9):518–521.]
Taxonomic investigations on Malva cretica s.l. (Malvaceae)
Authors: Del Guacchio Emanuele , Vallariello Roberta , Iamonico Duilio
Published: August 2020

A morphometric analysis has been carried out for the first time in order to investigate the variability of the infraspecific taxa included in the steno-Mediterranean Malva cretica s.l., i.e. M. Cretica subsp. althaeoides, M. cretica subsp. cretica, and the poorly-known M. Cretica var. montana, described from southern Italy. According to our results, M. cretica subsp. althaeoides and subsp. cretica are worth of taxonomic recognition at subspecies rank and occupy respectively the western and the central-eastern sectors of the species range. Concerning M. Cretica var. montana, characterized by some intermediate features, it should be included in M. Cretica subsp. cretica.
Conyza (Asteraceae): una valoración crítica basada en las poblaciones de Cataluña, España
Authors: Pyke S.
Published: August 2020

Se examina el género Conyza para entender mejor la diversidad infragenérica en el NE de España, principalmente en Cataluña. Cada taxon se trata con una breve descripción y comentarios, además se ha elaborado una clave dicótoma que incluye tanto las especies presentes actualmente como las presuntamente desaparecidas. Se reconocen dos táxones infraespecíficos poco conocidos: C. Canadensis var. glabrata y C. Bonariensis var. angustifolia, además de analizar la identidad y el estatus de otros táxones a veces citados.
Investigation on Blockchain Technology for Web Service Composition
Authors: Sridevi S.  , Karpagam G. R.  , Vinoth Kumar B.  , Uma Maheswari J.
Published: August 2020

The blockchain is an incorruptible digital ledger of economic transactions that can be programmed to record not just financial transactions but virtually everything of value. Blockchain technology makes breakthroughs in business intelligence in many areas such as banking sector, finance, judiciary, commerce, and information technology. Web service compositions have a revolutionary impact on business intelligence by enabling loose coupling, data consolidation from diverse sources, consolidation of information under a single roof, easing ad-hoc querying and reporting. The objective of current work is to investigate the applicability of blockchain for the semantic web service composition process. The paper focuses on design of conceptual architecture and the algorithm for QoS-aware semantic web service composition (SWSC) using blockchain.
Methods for Estimating Energy Expenditure in Critically Ill Adults
Authors: Cordoza Makayla , Chan Lingtak-Neander , Bridges Elizabeth , Thompson Hilaire
Published: August 2020

Energy expenditure (EE) is the sum of metabolic activity within the body at a given time and comprises basal EE, diet-induced thermogenesis, and physical activity. In the intensive care unit, EE is most often assessed to determine a patient’s caloric requirements. Energy expenditure also may be useful to understand disease states and the metabolic impact of interventions. Several methods for estimating EE are relevant for clinical use, including indirect calorimetry, predictive equations, exhaled carbon dioxide volume, and the Fick method. Indirect calorimetry is the preferred method for evaluating EE and is considered the gold standard for estimating EE in hospitalized patients. However, use of indirect calorimetry is not always practical or possible. Therefore, other methods of estimating EE must be considered. In this review, methods of evaluating EE in critically ill adults are examined and the benefits and limitations of each method are discussed, with practical considerations for use.
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: A Guide for Nurses
Authors: Hanson Leah M. , Bettencourt Amanda P
Published: August 2020

Nurses are central to the care of patients with Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Patients with these conditions present with nuanced symptoms and have complex nursing care needs. Although much of the exact pathophysiology of these diseases is not known, all nurses benefit from a fundamental understanding of the genesis of skin manifestations, associated pharmacology, and prognosis. The care of patients hospitalized with Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis consists of wound care, infection prevention, comfort management, hydration and nutrition, psychosocial support, and the prevention of long-term complications. This article provides an overview of these diseases, including clinical diagnosis, history and physical assessment, related pharmacology, and nursing care priorities. A description of the current state of the science in clinical management for nurses at all levels is provided, with an emphasis on nursing’s contribution to the best possible patient outcomes.
sLeX Expression Delineates Distinct Functional Subsets of Human Blood Central and Effector Memory T Cells
Authors: Silva Mariana , Martin Kyle C. , Mondal Nandini , Sackstein Robert
Published: August 2020

Sialyl Lewis X (sLeX) regulates T cell trafficking from the vasculature into skin and sites of inflammation, thereby playing a critical role in immunity. In healthy persons, only a small proportion of human blood T cells express sLeX, and their function is not fully defined. Using a combination of biochemical and functional studies, we find that human blood sLeX+CD4+T cells comprise a subpopulation expressing high levels of Th2 and Th17 cytokines, chemokine receptors CCR4 and CCR6, and the transcription factors GATA-3 and RORγT. Additionally, sLeX+CD4+T cells exclusively contain the regulatory T cell population (CD127lowCD25high and FOXP3+) and characteristically display immune-suppressive molecules, including the coinhibitor receptors PD-1 and CTLA-4. Among CD8+T cells, sLeX expression distinguishes a subset displaying low expression of cytotoxic effector molecules, perforin and granzyme β, with reduced degranulation and CD57 expression and, consistently, marginal cytolytic capacity after TCR engagement. Furthermore, sLeX+CD8+T cells present a pattern of features consistent with Th cell–like phenotype, including release of pertinent Tc2 cytokines and elevated expression of CD40L. Together, these findings reveal that sLeX display is associated with unique functional specialization of both CD4+ and CD8+T cells and indicate that circulating T cells that are primed to migrate to lesional sites at onset of inflammation are not poised for cytotoxic function.
CD70 Inversely Regulates Regulatory T Cells and Invariant NKT Cells and Modulates Type 1 Diabetes in NOD Mice
Authors: Ye Cheng , Low Benjamin E. , Wiles Michael V. , Brusko Todd M. , Serreze David V. , Driver John P.
Published: August 2020

The CD27–CD70 costimulatory pathway is essential for the full activation of T cells, but some studies show that blocking this pathway exacerbates certain autoimmune disorders. In this study, we report on the impact of CD27–CD70 signaling on disease progression in the NOD mouse model of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Specifically, our data demonstrate that CD70 ablation alters thymocyte selection and increases circulating T cell levels. CD27 signaling was particularly important for the thymic development and peripheral homeostasis of Foxp3+Helios+ regulatory T cells, which likely accounts for our finding that CD70-deficient NOD mice develop more-aggressive T1D onset. Interestingly, we found that CD27 signaling suppresses the thymic development and effector functions of T1D-protective invariant NKT cells. Thus, rather than providing costimulatory signals, the CD27–CD70 axis may represent a coinhibitory pathway for this immunoregulatory T cell population. Moreover, we showed that a CD27 agonist Ab reversed the effects of CD70 ablation, indicating that the phenotypes observed in CD70-deficient mice were likely due to a lack of CD27 signaling. Collectively, our results demonstrate that the CD27–CD70 costimulatory pathway regulates the differentiation program of multiple T cell subsets involved in T1D development and may be subject to therapeutic targeting.
The Expression of P2X7 Receptor on Th1, Th17, and Regulatory T Cells in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus or Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Correlations with Active Disease
Authors: Li Mingxuan , Yang Chuanyu , Wang Yunhai , Song Wei , Jia Lina , Peng Xiaoxiang , Zhao Ronglan
Published: August 2020

P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is highly expressed on immune cells, triggering the release of cytokines and regulating autoimmune responses. To investigate P2X7R surface expression on T helper (Th) 1, Th17, and regulatory T (Treg) cells in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and correlations with disease activity, 29 SLE and 29 RA patients and 18 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. We showed that SLE and RA patients had significantly higher levels of plasma cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17A, and IL-23), frequencies of Th1 and Th17 cells, and expression of P2X7R on Th1 and Th17 than HCs, and the Th17/Treg ratio was significantly increased, whereas Treg cell levels were significantly decreased. The Ca2+ influx increase following BzATP stimulation was significantly higher in CD4+PBMCs from SLE and RA patients than in HCs. Blood levels of shed P2X7R were increased in SLE and RA patients. Furthermore, 28-joint Disease Activity Score and SLE Disease Activity Index score showed negative correlations with Treg cell levels and positive correlations with Th17/Treg ratio and Th17 cell P2X7R expression. Interestingly, Th17 cell P2X7R expression was closely correlated with IL-1β, C-reactive protein, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, anticyclic citrullinated peptide Abs, albumin, and C4. These data indicate that increased Th17 cell P2X7R expression is functionally and positively related to disease activity and some inflammatory mediators in SLE and RA patients, and P2X7R could be critical in promoting the Th17 immune response and contributing to the complex pathogenesis of SLE and RA.
Determining Factors Affecting the Medical Interns' Choice of Specialties among Governmental Universities in Riyadh
Authors: Al Suwaidan Ahmed Tariq , Al Luhidan Lama Abdullah , Al Barrak Khaled Abdullah , Al Mubrick Rehab Abdullah , Al Suwaidan Hessah Ibrahim , Al Shammari Rawan Abdulaziz , Belal Barakeh Rima MHD , Al-Ghusoon Moath Khalid , Al Rwaily Bander Munir , Al Shammari Sulaiman Abdullah
Published: August 2020

The nature of experience during the medical study at university may play an essential role in choosing the specialty.

Background:

The aim of this study is to determine the effect of national universities in general and on medical interns' career choice, taking into consideration the gender difference. Furthermore, to find out when national universities educate their students about the different specialties.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study that included 234 Saudi medical intern students from four different medical colleges in national universities in Riyadh. These were King Saud University, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University (PNU), Imam Mohamed Bin Saud Islamic University, and King Saud bin Abdulaziz for Health and Science (KSAU-HS) with consideration of gender differences and availability. All participants who are selected randomly completed an online questioner with a unique code.

Results:

Around two-thirds (66%) of the participants ensured that their national universities had a positive influence in choosing the specialties dividing equally between both genders. According to the participants' perceptions, all the items of the medical education system did not affect in choosing the specialty except three of them that have a positive effect which are elective experience (43.59%), clinical year (40.6%), and the personality of instructor (38.46%). Furthermore, one-third (33%) of the participants emphasized that their universities educated them about the specialties in the 3rd year. The most common decisive factor was an elective experience of 19.36%, whereas the most common negative factors were improper block duration and the personality of the instructor by 14.52%.

Conclusion:

Most national universities had a positive effect on their students' career choice, and they educated pregraduate students about specialties.
Microplankton Composition and Spatial Distribution Along the West Antarctic Peninsula During the Late Summer of 2017
Authors: Feyzioglu Ali Muzaffer , Basar Ersan , Yildiz Ilknur , Ozsoy Burcu
Published: August 2020

Microplankton is composed of organisms between 20 and 200 µm in size (greatest
axial linear dimension) and is a mixture of phytoplankton and zooplankton. It is an
important component of the marine pelagic ecosystem not only as primary producers
but also as consumers in the microbial loop. In the present paper, the results of
microplankton species abundance and their community structure during the first
Turkish Antarctic Expedition (TAE-1) at late Antarctic summer were given at four
coastal stations along the west Antarctic Peninsula (wAP). According to these results,
a total of 37 microplankton species were observed. Diatoms were the dominant group,
followed by ciliates. The highest total microplankton cell concentrations were 18370
cells l-1 and 24350 cells l-1 at P4 and P2 sampling stations, respectively. Although the
most common phytoplankton and ciliate species were Odontella weissflogii and
Cymatocylis affinis, respectively, diversity indexes showed that no dominance of a
species could be mentioned at any station. Additionally, we observed that the
southern part of the wAP is significantly different from its northernmost part in
microplankton abundance/composition.
Screening of Lactococcal Adhesion Genes and Two Pneumococcal Genes as Genetic Determinants of Virulence in Lactococcus garvieae Strains
Authors: Teker Tugba , Albayrak Gulruh , Akayli Tulay , Urku Cigdem
Published: August 2020

Nine lactococcal adhesin and two pneumococcal virulence genes were characterized
in twenty Lactococcus garvieae strains obtained from rainbow trout, and also one
human isolate by PCR. Findings showed that all strains carried adhPsaA (522 bp),
LPxTG-1 (947 bp), adhCI (490 bp), and purB (864 bp) while some of the strains had
adhPav (1048 bp), LPxTG-2 (767 bp), LPxTG-3 (231 bp), adhCII (732 bp), adh (398 bp)
and SP_0121 (966 bp). High nucleotide homologies (85-99%) of adhCI, adhCII, adh,
adhPav, adhPsaA, LPxTG-1, LPxTG-3 involved in bacterial adhesion were determined
between L. garvieae strains and reference Lg2. Genes containing polymorphisms
among strains were not considered to be directly involved in bacterial pathogenesis.
The amplification of LPxTG-3 only in fish isolates showed that it might be responsible
for coding the host-specific virulence factor. However, undetermined amplicons
demonstrated that LPxTG-4 could not be used as a host-specific gene marker.
Pneumococcal purB and SP_0121 have been experimentally detected in L. garvieae
genome for the first time. Consequently, both purB and SP_0121 can be used as a
virulence marker for L. garvieae. Findings provided valuable knowledge about L.
garvieae pathogenesis and, will contribute to identify the appropriate genomic targets
to develop new therapeutics against the lactococcosis.
Comparative Proteomics for Identification of ReproductionRelated Proteins in Testes of the Giant Tiger Shrimp Penaeus monodon
Authors: Klinbunga Sirawut , Petkorn Sasithorn , Phaonakrop Narumon , Janpoom Sirithorn , Prasertlux Sirikan , Rongmung Puttawan , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Menasveta Piamsak , Khamnamtong Bavornlak
Published: August 2020

Testicular proteome of wild and domesticated 14- and 18-month-old broodstock of
the giant tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon was examined. Among 344 differentially
expressed proteins identified, 11 proteins (e.g. p97/VCP-binding protein p135,
lipoxygenase homology domains 1 and dipeptidyl-peptidase, accounting for 4.95% of
proteins with known functions) were found in wild broodstock but not in domesticated
broodstock while 152 (68.47%) proteins were commonly found in all groups of
samples. Reproduction-related proteins such as vasa-like protein, Wee1-like protein
kinase, serine/threonine protein kinase, mitogen activated protein kinase kinase 2,
GTP-binding protein alpha subunit, seven membrane helix receptor, nuclear receptor
subfamily 3, were identified. To examine a possible role of the signal transduction
system in development of testes of P. monodon, the expression level of testicular
serine/arginine rich-protein kinase 3 (PmSrpk3) mRNA of domesticated juveniles and
broodstock was examined and it was significantly lower than that of wild P. monodon
broodstock (P<0.05). PmSrpk3 expression was significantly induced by serotonin
(P<0.05) but not progesterone (P>0.05) injection. The expression profiles of PmSrpk3
indicated reduced reproductive maturation of domesticated male P. monodon and
exogenous administration of serotonin may be applied for promoting the testicular
development of captive P. monodon
Swedish Crop Wild Relatives: towards a national strategy for in situ conservation of CWR
Authors: Weibull Jens , Phillips Jade
Published: August 2020

In 2015, the Nordic countries (Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway and Iceland) initiated a project to help strengthen the efforts of conservation and use of crop wild relatives (CWR) across the region. Policy recommendations that were put forward included creating national strategies for each Nordic country and adopting and implementing complementary in situ conservation as the main approach for safeguarding CWR across the region. The present work explores in greater detail the situation for Sweden. Taxa rich areas and areas where potential data bias may be prevalent are located. An eco-geographic map is constructed to help determine how genetic diversity may be portioned across the country within populations of taxa. An in situ complementarity analysis accounting for taxa richness, eco-geographic richness and the protected area network in the country is also presented. Possible reasons for diverging results, as compared to the regional analysis, are discussed. The document serves as a starting point for further in-depth research on CWR distribution, conservation and use within Sweden.
ECPGR recommended SSR loci for analyses of European plum (Prunus domestica) collections
Authors: Nybom Hilde , Giovannini Daniela , Ordidge Matt , Hjeltnes Stein Harald , Grahić Jasmin , Gaši Fuad
Published: August 2020

A set of nine Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) loci, approved by the ECPGR Prunus working group, are proposed as a standard set for genotyping European plum accessions. These loci show sufﬁcient reliability in spite of problems caused by hexaploidy. Polymorphism in the loci is high and enables differentiation between unique plum accessions as well as analyses of genetic grouping and overall genetic structure. A set of seven reference accessions are described. A compiled dataset with allelic information for 165 accessions is presented. Genetic structure reveals three different K-values (2, 4 and 9) demonstrating a major dichotomy between Prunus insititia-related accessions and cultivars belonging to Prunus domestica sensu stricto, as well as differentiation among minor subgroups deﬁned by pomological traits and geographical origin.
Sustainable City Planning Concepts and Practices in Emerging Economies: A Systematic Review
Authors: Permana Chrisna T. , Harsanto Budi
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this paper is to explore sustainable city planning concepts and practices in emerging economies. Using a systematic review, peer-reviewed articles in an academic database were systematically searched and reviewed. The process included selecting appropriate keywords to assist in screening relevant articles, allowing more comprehensive and integrated findings of the concepts and practices of sustainable city planning in emerging economies, assisted by the NVivo 12 qualitative software package and Microsoft Excel. This paper also developed a framework comprised of key elements to measure the sustainability of city planning. The findings showed that, by reviewing more than 30 peer- reviewed articles, it was understood that Western sustainable city planning concepts have been directly adopted into the policy agendas of emerging countries without significant changes. However, such concepts were interpreted into a number of different practices dealing with the local socio-cultural and political characteristics of the adopting countries. Lastly, during the systematic review, this paper offers a comprehensive evaluation of the overall mapping of literature in the framework of sustainable city planning in emerging countries, indicating a number of areas that have been explored by existing studies as well as certain areas that are still lacking and could be potentially explored by future studies.
Determining Leading Economic Sectors, by Large Distribution or Extreme Growth?
Authors: Rosadi Alfian
Published: August 2020

Leading economic sector on Tulungagung Regency determined by sector contribution on GRDP. These sectors expected can be a booster to economic growth. But Economic Growth in Tulungagung Regency was still slower than East Java Province. This Study aims to determined Leading economic sector not only by its contribution. SLQ and DLQ analysis, average contribution, growth rate and shift share analysis have been done to observe contribution, competiveness and progresive growth of economic sector. Based on the assesment by scoring of the criteria, leading economic sector was determined and found that education service sector lead the rank followed by information and communication sector.
O Processo de Acumulação Originária na Bolívia: Saída e retorno a vida no campo / The Original Accumulation in Bolivia: leave and return to life in the field
Authors: Antunes Moreira Larissa Dulce
Published: August 2020

Este artigo tem como objetivo discutir e compreender o processo de acumulação originária ocorrido na Bolívia até a promulgação do Buén Vivir como princípio constitucional pautado em uma perspectiva de retorno a uma sociabilidade não capitalista. Foi essencial para o desenvolvimento deste, a retomada dos escritos marxianos com a finalidade de compreender todo este processo que separa o homem da natureza conhecido como acumulação originária. A metodologia utilizada no trabalho é qualitativa de cunho descritivo na qual analisará a bibliografia disponível. A priori, é possível concluir que o Buen Vivir se apresenta sim como uma alternativa ao caos da exploração, da globalização desenfreada e do sistema capitalista que foram sendo impostas desde o tempo colonial. Sendo uma das saídas deste cenário a recampesinização.
Penerapan Model Missouri Mathematics Project Untuk Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar
Authors: Aini Laely Nurul , Muryaningsih Sri , Irawan Dedy
Published: August 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar matematika. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian tindakan kelas yang dilaksanakan dalam 2 kali pertemuan, dengan menggunakan model Missouri Mathematics Project. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, hasil belajar pengetahuan pada pertemuan I mendapatkan nilai 71,8 dengan kategori baik, dan ketuntasan 75%. Pada pertemuan II mendapatkan presentase  80,5 dengan kategori baik, dan ketuntasan belajar 80%. Hasil belajar sikap percaya diri pada pertemuan I mendaptkan nilai 2,5 dengan kategori cukup, dan pada pertemuan II mendaptkan presentase 3,25 dengan kategori baik. Hasil belajar keterampilan menyelesaikan soal matematika pada pertemuan I mendapatkan nilai 2,5 dengan kategori cukup dan pada pertemuan II mendapatkan presentase 3,08 dengan kategori baik. Hasil belajar pada aspek pengetahuan, sikap percaya diri, dan keterampilan menyelesaikan soal matematika telah mencapai indikator keberhasilan. Dapat disimpulkan bahwa model Missouri Mathematics Project dapat meningkatkan hasil belajar matematika peserta didik kelas IV SDN 1 Banjarsari Wetan.
Spectrum of Benign Histopathological Lesions in Cholecystectomy Specimens
Authors: Singh Prachi , Ahmad Faiyaz , Dutta Shyamoli , Awasthi Seema , Singh V. K
Published: August 2020

Background: The most commonly received specimen in any histopathology laboratory is cholecystectomy specimen. The majority of the cholecystectomies are done for Cholelithiasis. Inflammation may be acute, chronic or acute on chronic. It almost always occurs in association with gallstones, which is responsible for carcinoma and if the diagnosed early prognosis of the carcinoma gall bladder is good. Histopathological examination is therefore a must for diagnosis of early carcinomas. Subjects and Methods: 100 cholecystectomy specimens from patients       of all ages were included. All specimens were subjected to gross and microscopic assessment. Different histological findings were noted in various layers of the gall bladder. The study includes all radiologically confirmed inflammatory pathologies of including metaplastic changes of the gall bladder epithelium, irrespective of age and sex. The study excludes patients with evident gallbladder malignancy, cases with known secondaries from gall bladder, traumatic rupture of gallbladder. Results: The age of patients varied from 16 to 70 years, with a maximum number of patients (25%) belong to 31 to 40 years. Gall stones were associated with 59% cases of cholecystitis. Pigment stones were most common (74%). Histopathologically the most common diagnosis was chronic cholecystitis (69%). Conclusion: Almost all of the gallbladder lesions are inflammatory in origin, of which the most common disease being chronic cholecystitis. Chronic cholecystitis was found to be most probable diagnosis in a female of 30-40 years. Pigmented gall stones were found to be the most common etiology of chronic cholecystitis. Prompt detailed histopathological analysis will help to confirm the benign nature of the disease or to detect any precursors of malignancy.
Cognitive dysfunctions in patients with bipolar disorder: A comparative study from Western Rajasthan
Authors: Awasthi Ankit , Koolwal Arpit , Dhaka Nikita , Koolwal Ghanshyam Das , Gehlot Sanjay
Published: August 2020

Background: Cognitive dysfunction is an established entity in bipolar disorder. The affected individuals exhibit wide-ranging deficits involving multiple domains of cognitive functioning. These deficits are associated with poor functional outcome and residual disability in patients. A substantial literature exists globally on cognition in bipolar disorder; however, few studies have been carried out on this subject in India and    in Rajasthan. The aim of the study is to compare cognitive functions of bipolar disorder patients and healthy control subjects. Subjects and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Psychiatry department of a tertiary care institution on 50 bipolar disorder patients and matched healthy controls subjects who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The diagnosis was made by DSM-V criteria, and symptom severity was determined by the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D). After seeking socio-demographic details, all participants were administered the Post Graduate Institute Battery of Brain Dysfunction (PGI-BBD) to assess cognitive functioning. Data collected were subjected to suitable statistical analysis (mean, standard deviation, and chi-square test). Results: The majority of the bipolar disorder patients (54%) were under 35 years of age, were males (60%), were from the urban background (70%), and were married (82%). Bipolar disorder patients performed poorly on all domains of cognitive functioning, i.e. memory, performance and verbal intelligence, and perceptuo-motor skills. Conclusion: The present study affirmed the previous findings of wide-spread cognitive impairment in bipolar disorder patients. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are the key steps to reduce the cognitive morbidity associated with this disorder.
Asymptomatic Isolated Cervical Tubercular Lymphadenopathy, How to Proceed?: A Case Series
Authors: Dogra Ravi Singh , Singh Arjun , Bhardwaj Vinay , Poonam  , Pandey Srijan , Modgil Gunjan , Goel Arpit
Published: August 2020

Tuberculosis is a highly prevalent disease in developing countries, the majority of cases are pulmonary and rest are extra-pulmonary. Cervical LN tuberculosis is one of the most common types of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis. Isolated cervical tubercular Lymphadenitis without accompanying pulmonary tuberculosis or another form of tuberculosis in the body is rare and, when present, requires thorough clinical examination and investigation. In the investigation of such patients, FNAC plays a major role, and aspirate should be tested for AFB through ZN stain and CBNAAT (PCR). Cervical tubercular Lymphadenitis is mainly a disease of young with a female predominance. All patients of cervical tubercular Lymphadenitis must receive antitubercular therapy with strict follow up for compliance and possible side effects from treatment.
Role of Cross-Sectional Imaging in Tongue Lesions
Authors: Deepthi BT  , Gautham M  , Mathew Jefrin Roy
Published: August 2020

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the role of CT and MR imaging in demonstrating lesions of the tongue. Imaging    can help to decide the further management of the patient, and when resection is considered, the precise extent of the lesion can be delineated, and also if organ conservation therapy can be suggested. Hence, knowing the differentiating characteristics of these lesions is essential for        a Radiologist to narrow the differential diagnosis. The aim of the study is to describe the imaging findings of various tongue lesions, give radio-pathological correlation, and discuss the role of CT and MRI in planning further appropriate treatment, the extent of involvement of adjacent structures, resectability, postoperative reconstruction & prognosis. Subjects and Methods: Twenty patients with tongue masses were prospectively evaluated with CT & MRI for eighteen months from June 2018 - Nov 2019. Contrast-enhanced CT axial images with reconstruction were acquired. MRI plain & contrast study done. Imaging findings & diagnoses were later correlated with surgical and histopathological results in all possible cases. Results: Among twenty patients, three patients revealed no abnormality; seventeen patients with findings on imaging include twelve squamous cell carcinoma, two venous malformations, two thyroglossal cysts, one hemangioma & one fatty lipoma. Conclusion: Few specific lesion characteristics can aid in narrowing the differential diagnosis. Solid high-density lesions in the midline mostly represent lingual thyroids. Calcifications likely indicate goitrous transformation. Phleboliths are highly suggestive of venous malformations. Multinodular, thin-rim enhancing cystic lesions are indicative of lymphatic malformations, primarily when fluid-fluid levels are found. Fat/calcium content within a complex cystic lesion is specific for a dermoid cyst, whereas diffusion restriction within a pure cystic lesion is suggestive of an epidermoid cyst. Finally, when an injury is Trans spatial, three differentials to be considered are highly aggressive malignancies, congenital masses & aggressive infections.
Utility of CT in Head Injury- A Prospective Study
Authors: Anil Kumar Bansal  , Gupta Anil Kumar
Published: August 2020

Background: Head injury is defined as an impairment in brain function as a result of mechanical force. The dysfunction can be temporary or permanent, and may or may not result in underlying structural changes in the brain. Head injuries are a major public health problem worldwide. A limited amount of neurological damage occurs at the time of impact (primary injury). Subjects and Methods: The study was a prospective observational study took place in the Department of Radiology, over a 8 month period which involves all type of head injuries. Informed consent was obtained by the subjects who participated in the study. All head injury patients attending the emergency department were included, while those with no clear history of trauma as the primary event and neurologic deficit that could not be explained by head trauma were excluded. Results:  A total of 1000 patients underwent CT for a head injury. Table 1 shows baseline characteristics as age, gender, referred cases, type  of injury, mode of injury and clinical features where we observed 48.2% cases were in the age group between 21-40 years with 80% of male subjects. While observing for the mode of injury, we found most of the cases falls in the category of road traffic accidents (77%) with external injury (83.5%) and loss of consciousness (63.4%) as highly observed clinical features. Conclusion: This study showed a significant association of overall CT positivity with patients sociodemographic and clinical factors such as: male gender, elderly age group (>60 years), history of alcohol consumption, LOC >5 min, history of vomiting, history of seizures, evidence of ear bleed, evidence of nosebleed, and GCS 12 (moderate and Severe head injury). From the results of this study, we recommend the following indications for doing CT in head injury patients: (1) CT is indicated in all patients with moderate and severe head injury (GCS ≤12).
Basics of Tunneled Dialysis Catheter Placement for Haemodialysis – Single Centre Experience
Authors: Eada Sabarinath , Uma Maheswara Reddy V  , Saripudi SVNP Manikanta Vijay  , Samireddypalle Yugandhar , Annamalai Pavithira , K S Amitha Vikrama
Published: August 2020

/non tunneled dialysis catheters or through arteriovenous fistulas/grafts. The tunneled dialysis catheters act as bridge dialysis devices during maturation period of arteriovenous fistulas/grafts and also serve as the last option for end stage renal disease patients who have exhausted all the other dialysis accesses. The aim and objective is to review the basic key concepts of internal Jugular, External Jugular and Subclavian tunneled venous catheter placement, techniques utilized, complications encountered, issues of suboptimal functioning and their management. Subjects and Methods: This was a prospective observational study done in department of Radio diagnosis, Narayana medical college, Nellore. About 54 cases were performed in our institution from December 2018 to Mar 2020 (including three pediatric patients). The age range of these patients is 10 to 75 years. Results: Out of 54 cases, one case had failed, as the guide wire didn’t pass across the brachiocephalic vein. Venogram revealed high grade stenosis of right brachiocephalic vein. There were major complications in two cases, minor complications in five cases with delayed complications in two cases. Conclusion: Tunneled catheters play a key role in serving as bridging devices during maturation of AVF/AVG or as the last option in chronic kidney disease patients in whom all other options have exhausted. Intervention radiologist should have good experience and an overall knowledge of the issues involved in placement of tunneled dialysis catheters, knowledge about the complications, technical issues of suboptimal functioning, for optimal catheter placement and also for improving catheter function.
Evaluation of MRI Findings in Tension Type Headache Patients
Authors: SC Sanjay  , Harshavardhan  , Meraj
Published: August 2020

Background: Tension-type headache (TTH) has a life-time prevalence of up to 78% in the general population. It is characterized by bilateral location, pressing/tightening quality and is typically of mild to moderate intensity. Hence; the present study was conducted for evaluation of MRI findings in tension type headache patients. Subjects and Methods: A total of 12 patients with tension type headache were enrolled. Complete demographic details of all the patients were recorded. Relevant history, clinical examination and routine investigations were done. Patients underwent MRI investigations. MR imaging findings were compiled as per proforma and subjected to analysis using SPSS software. Chi-square test was used for assessment of level of significance. Results: Significant abnormal MRI findings were found to be present in 1 patient with tension type headache. The patients with significant MRI finding showed few small discrete T2 and T2 flair Hyperintensities in subcortical white matter. Conclusion: Patients with tension type headache should be viewed with suspicion and MRI should be done for excluding other potential etiologic factors.
Role of Computed Tomography Scan in the Assessment of Subacute Intestinal Obstruction at Bhuj, Kutch: A Prospective Study
Authors: Ashvin Pansuriya
Published: August 2020

Background: Bowel obstruction occurs when the normal flow of intraluminal contents is interrupted. Obstruction can be functional or due to  a mechanical obstruction. Now a day’s CT is considered to be the most efficacious imaging technique for determining the cause of intestinal obstruction. However, the indications for the use of CT in patients with Sub-Acute Intestinal Obstruction (SAIO) have not been fully defined. Objectives of the present study are to study the role of CT in Diagnosis of patients with suspected subacute intestinal obstruction (SAIO), to find out site & cause of obstruction and to diagnose complications of obstruction. Subjects and Methods: This study was conducted at Department of Radiodiagnosis, Gujarat Adani institute of Medcial Science, Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat. Total number of 22 patients with SAIO having equivocal findings on USG was included in this study. Detailed clinical evaluation of the patients was done. Plain x-ray of abdomen in erect posture & abdominopelvic ultrasound were performed before CT scan. CT scans were performed on a GE lightspeed VCT 64 slice scanner and acquired in precontrast & portovenous phase at 60sec after i.v. contrast administration. Results:  Age of the patients in the study range between 14 to   76 years. Out of 22 were 12 male & 10 female patients. On CT scan all 22 patients were found to have obstruction with 19 patients having mechanical obstruction & 3 patients having pseudo obstruction secondary to appendicitis, jejunal perforation. Most common cause of SAIO was ileal stricture 38% followed by intussusceptions 23%. Conclusion: CT is not only useful in distinguishing mechanical obstruction from paralytic ileus but also it often establishes the cause of obstruction & presence of complications like strangulation & perforation.
Outlook on Life Writing and American Studies
Authors: Schultermandl Silvia , Balestrini Nassim
Published: August 2020

In lieu of an abstract, here is the first paragraph of this contribution:

Having discussed five distinct areas of inquiry within life writing studies, we are acutely aware of the various interconnected themes. By way of a conclusion, we would like to sketch three particular aspects which merit extensive attention. First, the fact that all of the contributions highlight the constructedness of life writing can be seen as a call for enhancing our understanding of the mechanisms of self-representation and their implications for the represented autobiographical self and for the multi-genre phenomenon of life writing. The field of life writing studies has been instrumental in uncovering multiple phenotypes linked to medium-specific possibilities and to the contexts in which such content is generated, disseminated, and received. Thus, we will need to grapple further with researching competing and differing media selves, including the roles of curators and adapting generic forms like the scrapbook and the self-help manual as well as the economic backdrop and impact of production and distribution.
"You know, I used to be a Jew"
Authors: Reinhardt Mark
Published: August 2020

Beginning with the unlikely pairing of Max Reinhardt and Groucho Marx, this article unpacks an old, politically troubling Jewish joke as a way of tracing two trajectories that unfolded between Austria and the United States. The first follows the author's family, the second the interdisciplinary field of American studies. The joke's commentary on the dilemmas of assimilation, as played out in the family history, frames a more sustained examination of how national identity was understood by the American studies project consolidated in Salzburg and the US just after World War II. Focusing on how the new field's ways of engaging and occluding problems of race, subordination, exploitation, and land-theft shaped an interpretation of American democracy's history and prospects, the article puts these issues in the context of Donald Trump's election as president and the urgency of understanding not only the ruptures but also the historical continuities his presidency represents. Against the backdrop of those reflections, the article considers how contemporary American studies does and might engage the continuities. The field must help shape a national narrative both accessible in idiom and able to reckon with the ongoing history of white supremacy and settler colonialism. Doing that entails not only moving beyond but also borrowing anew from that early, Salzburg-style formation of American studies. It may also benefit from the Jewish joke: the conclusion and two postscripts read the joke's limitations in the light of recent social struggles yet also note its unnerving relevance to the Trump-era resurgence of antisemitism.