Effective Technique Research Articles

THz Data Analysis and Self-Organizing Map (SOM) for the Quality Assessment of Hazelnuts

In recent years, the use of techniques based on electromagnetic radiation as an investigative tool in the agri-food industry has grown considerably, and between them, the application of imaging and THz spectroscopy has gained significance in the field of food quality control. This study presents the development of an experimental setup operating in transmission mode within the frequency range of 18 to 40 GHz, which was specifically designed for assessing various quality parameters of hazelnuts. The THz measurements were conducted to distinguish between healthy and rotten hazelnut samples. Two different data analysis techniques were employed and compared: a traditional approach based on data matrix manipulation and curve fitting for parameter extrapolation, and the utilization of a Self-Organizing Map (SOM), for which we use a neural network commonly known as the Kohonen neural network, which is recognized for its efficacy in analyzing THz measurement data. The classification of hazelnuts based on their quality was performed using these techniques. The results obtained from the comparative analysis of coding efforts, analysis times, and outcomes shed light on the potential applications of each method. The findings demonstrate that THz spectroscopy is an effective technique for quality assessment in hazelnuts, and this research serves to clarify the suitability of each analysis technique.

Novel composite cathode material α-MnO2@ZIF-67 for high performance aqueous rechargeable Zn-ion battery

As a promising cathode material for aqueous zinc ion batteries, manganese dioxide (α-MnO2) faces several challenges such as low ionic conductivity and significant volume expansion during charging and discharging. Coating is an effective method to improve the electrochemical performance, and the composition and structure of the coating layer play a key role in the electrochemical properties of the materials. In this work, we employed a room temperature in situ growth strategy to fabricate composites comprising α-MnO2 nanorods and Zeolite Imidazolium Framework-67 (ZIF-67) nanoparticles. The porous ZIF-67 improves the ionic/electronic conductivity and provides more active sites. The α-MnO2@ZIF-67 composites show a high specific capacity of 313.4 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 and good long-term cycling stability, with a capacity retention of 65 % after 1500 cycles at 1000 mA g−1. The above results indicate that it is an effective technique to improve the electrochemical performance of manganese-based oxide materials by compositing with porous MOFs.

Microstructural characterization and wear performance of shot-peened TA15 titanium alloy fabricated by SLM

Ti-6Al-2Zr-1Mo-1 V (TA15) is a kind of near-α titanium alloy widely used in the aerospace industry, known for its excellent thermal strength and weldability. However, its low thermal conductivity and high deformation resistance make traditional machining methods challenging. Despite some researchers have manufactured TA15 alloy using SLM, the issue of tensile residual stresses on component surfaces remains prominent. This study aims to investigate the impact of shot peening on the surface residual stresses, microstructure, and wear performance of SLM-formed TA15 alloy. Experimental results demonstrate the successful introduction of surface compressive residual stresses through shot peening, with a maximum value of -897 MPa (at 0.45mmA intensity). Shot peening reduces the grain size within the deformation layer, resulting in a significant presence of dislocation entanglement and dislocation cells. When the intensity reaches 0.35mmA, the emergence of nanocrystals is observed, attributed to the influence of dislocation activity and dynamic recrystallization. Additionally, shot-peened samples exhibit notably improved wear resistance compared to their non-peened counterparts. However, excessive shot peening intensity may compromise surface quality. Therefore, under specific load conditions, higher intensity is not necessarily better. In conclusion, shot peening proves to be an effective technique for enhancing the surface stress state and wear performance of SLM-formed TA15 alloy.

Disinformation detection using graph neural networks: a survey

The creation and propagation of disinformation on social media is a growing concern. The widespread dissemination of disinformation can have destructive effects on people’s attitudes and behavior. So, it is essential to detect disinformation as soon as possible. Therefore, the interest in effective detection techniques has grown rapidly in recent years. Major social media and social networking sites are trying to develop robust strategies to detect disinformation and prevent its spread. Machine learning techniques and especially neural networks, have an essential role in this task. In this paper, we review different approaches for automatic disinformation detection, with a focus on methods that leverage graph neural networks (GNNs). GNNs are very suitable tools for detecting disinformation in social networks. Because on the one hand, graphs are the most comprehensive way to model social networks and on the other hand, GNNs are the best tool for processing graph data. We define different forms of disinformation, and examine the features used and the methods presented from different perspectives. We also discuss relevant research areas, open problems, and future research directions for disinformation detection in social media.

Exosomes: A Cellular Communication Medium That Has Multiple Effects On Brain Diseases.

Exosomes, as membranous vesicles generated by multiple cell types and secreted to extracellular space, play a crucial role in a range of brain injury-related brain disorders by transporting diverse proteins, RNA, DNA fragments, and other functional substances. The nervous system's pathogenic mechanisms are complicated, involving pathological processes like as inflammation, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and autophagy, all of which result in blood-brain barrier damage, cognitive impairment, and even loss of normal motor function. Exosomes have been linked to the incidence and progression of brain disorders in recent research. As a result, a thorough knowledge of the interaction between exosomes and brain diseases may lead to the development of more effective therapeutic techniques that may be implemented in the clinic. The potential role of exosomes in brain diseases and the crosstalk between exosomes and other pathogenic processes were discussed in this paper. Simultaneously, we noted the delicate events in which exosomes as a media allow the brain to communicate with other tissues and organs in physiology and disease, and compiled a list of natural compounds that modulate exosomes, in order to further improve our understanding of exosomes and propose new ideas for treating brain disorders.

Methadone Maintenance Therapy (MMT) and Alternatives in Opioid Use Disorder: Reviewing the latest advancements, outcomes, and challenges in substitutional therapy for opioid addiction - literature review

Introduction and Purpose: Opioid addiction is a serious challenge for public health worldwide, and methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) is a key therapeutic approach. This review intends to provide an up-to-date summary of the pathophysiology, clinical manifestation, diagnostic techniques, and treatment options for Opioid Use Disorder. Materials and methods: The literature available in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases was reviewed using the following keywords: "MMT," "methadone maintenance therapy", “maintenance therapy”, "opioid use disorder", "opioid addiction," "methadone”, ”naloxone” “naltrexone”, and “buprenorphine”. State of Knowledge: This review examines current approaches in maintenance therapy for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). In the study, we focus on treatments using methadone, buprenorphine, naloxone, and naltrexone. It focuses on recent advancements, comparing the effectiveness, safety, and patient outcomes of these therapies. Key challenges in treatment accessibility and implementation are also discussed, providing an updated overview of the field and identifying areas for future research in opioid addiction therapy. Conclusion: There is a series of studies researching the psychological and behavioral problems associated with opioid addiction. This research has given medical practitioners valuable guidance on effective management techniques. According to the authors, compared to other alternative treatment methods, methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) is still considered the most effective pharmacotherapeutic method in the treatment of opioid addiction. Nevertheless, ongoing research is essential to improve diagnostic processes, develop innovative therapies, and enhance the overall quality of care for those affected by these challenges.

Femoral-Obturator-Sciatic (FOS) Nerve Block as an Anesthetic Triad for Arthroscopic ACL Reconstruction: Is This the Magic Trick We Were Missing?

Arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with hamstring grafting is a common orthopedic procedure that is associated with moderate-to-severe pain. Peripheral nerve blockade as an anesthetic technique is an appealing option in the era of modern anesthesia. The aim of this narrative review is to document the efficacy and safety of the combination of femoral, obturator, and sciatic (FOS) nerve blocks as an exclusive method for anesthesia in patients undergoing ACL reconstruction. An electronic search of the literature published up to October 2023 was conducted in the Medline, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases to find studies on ACL reconstruction and peripheral obturator nerve block. Overall, 8 prospective studies-with a total of 315 patients-published between 2007 and 2022 were included in this review. Ultrasound-guided peripheral FOS nerve blockade is an effective anesthetic technique for ACL reconstruction, offering good perioperative pain management, minimal opioid consumption, and an excellent safety profile. Further well-designed prospective studies are needed to determine the best approach for obturator nerve blockade and the appropriate type and dosage of local anesthetic.

Enhancing powder bed fusion of alumina ceramic material: a comprehensive study from powder tailoring to mechanical performance evaluation

Powder bed fusion (PBF) is an additive manufacturing (AM) technique that holds a great promise for alumina ceramic materials to be processed in a one step. To ensure an effective outcome, the powder material should be thoroughly tailored, and the process parameters should be appropriately investigated. These process parameters include laser power, scanning speed, hatching space, and scanning strategies. The alumina powder has been tailored and modified to be appropriately used for PBF using the spray-drying technique, and the process parameters have been predicted and selected using a developed numerical model. Different scanning speeds of 100, 200, 300, and 400 mm/s have been considered, and the other parameters have been numerically predicted. The results demonstrated that spray drying is an effective technique for tailoring the characteristics of alumina powder, such as particle shape, particle size distribution, flowability, and absorptivity, making it ideally suited for PBF processing. Furthermore, the developed numerical model demonstrated outstanding reliability in predicting the most effective laser power and hatching space for different scanning speeds, resulting in significant cost and time savings when compared to relying solely on experimental trials. Employing a scanning speed of 400 mm/s yielded a significant improvement in relative density and quality of the printed samples surpassing other scanning speeds. Moreover, this speed effectively addressed various challenges encountered by other scanning speeds. Following the optimization of process parameters, it was determined that a relative density of 94.5% could be achieved by utilizing a scanning speed of 400 mm/s, a laser power of 210 W, and a hatching space of 30 µm. However, the evaluation of mechanical performance revealed that while the microhardness of the printed alumina samples matched the values reported in the literature, the attained compressive strength fell significantly below the values reported in the literature.

Effective breast feeding techniques and associated factors among lactating mothers: a community-based cross-sectional study in Dugda district, central Ethiopia

Background: Breastfeeding technique is defined as the positioning of the mother and baby, the baby's attachment to the breast, and suckling during nursing, all of which are crucial for successful breastfeeding. Appropriate and longer breastfeeding practices have numerous benefits for both mothers and babies. Moreover, ineffective breastfeeding techniques are a cause of death for thousands of newborns every year. In Ethiopia, the practice of effective breastfeeding techniques remained low. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the practice of effective breastfeeding techniques and associated factors among breastfeeding mother-infant pairs in Dugda district, Central Ethiopia, 2023. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June 20 to August 20, 2023, in Dugda district on a total of 620 breastfeeding mother-infant pairs who were selected using a multistage sampling technique. Ethical clearance and approval were secured from the Ethical Review Board of Salale University with reference number SLU-IRB/53/23. The WHO's breastfeeding observational checklist and a face-to-face interview were used to collect the data. Bi-variable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were employed. An adjusted odds ratio coupled with a 95% CI was used to determine a significant association. Bi-variable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were employed. An adjusted odds ratio coupled with a 95% CI was used to determine a significant association. Results: The prevalence of effective breastfeeding techniques in this study was 43.4% (95% CI: 39.1%, 47.4%). Having antenatal care follow-up (AOR: 2.24; 95% CI: 1.21, 4.14), having prior information about breast feeding techniques (AOR: 5.78; 95% CI: 3.95, 8.46), being multipara (AOR: 2.21; 95% CI: 1.47, 3.33), and having educational levels of primary education (AOR: 2.42; 95% CI: 1.44, 4.06) and secondary education and above (AOR: 2.85; 95% CI: 1.73, 4.69) were significantly associated with effective breastfeeding techniques. Conclusion: The prevalence of effective breastfeeding techniques in the study area was relatively low. Therefore, empowering women in education, promoting utilisation of ANC follow-up and disseminating information about breastfeeding techniques could be the key implication for effective breastfeeding techniques. Special emphasis should be given to primipara mothers because they are new for nursing their infants.

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation regulates effective connectivity patterns of brain networks in the spectrum of preclinical Alzheimer's disease.

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) are considered as the spectrum of preclinical Alzheimer's disease (AD), with abnormal brain network connectivity as the main neuroimaging feature. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been proven to be an effective non-invasive technique for addressing neuropsychiatric disorders. This study aims to explore the potential of targeted rTMS to regulate effective connectivity within the default mode network (DMN) and the executive control network (CEN), thereby improving cognitive function. This study included 86 healthy controls (HCs), 72 SCDs, and 86 aMCIs. Among them, 10 SCDs and 11 aMCIs received a 2-week rTMS course of 5-day, once-daily. Cross-sectional analysis with the spectral dynamic causal model (spDCM) was used to analyze the DMN and CEN effective connectivity patterns of the three groups. Afterwards, longitudinal analysis was conducted on the changes in effective connectivity patterns and cognitive function before and after rTMS for SCD and aMCI, and the correlation between them was analyzed. Cross-sectional analysis showed different effective connectivity patterns in the DMN and CEN among the three groups. Longitudinal analysis showed that the effective connectivity pattern of the SCD had changed, accompanied by improvements in episodic memory. Correlation analysis indicated a negative relationship between effective connectivity from the left angular gyrus (ANG) to the anterior cingulate gyrus and the ANG.R to the right middle frontal gyrus, with visuospatial and executive function, respectively. In patients with aMCI, episodic memory and executive function improved, while the effective connectivity pattern remained unchanged. This study demonstrates that PCUN-targeted rTMS in SCD regulates the abnormal effective connectivity patterns in DMN and CEN, thereby improving cognition function. Conversely, in aMCI, the mechanism of improvement may differ. Our findings further suggest that rTMS is more effective in preventing or delaying disease progression in the earlier stages of the AD spectrum. http://www.chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR2000034533.

Combined Virna Glaucoma Implant (VGI) Implantation and Pars Plana Vitrectomy for Refractory Aphakic Glaucoma

Introduction : Glaucoma drainage devices (GDDs) implantation are frequently indicated for refractory glaucoma. The preferable anterior chamber may be inaccessible for patients with anterior chamber abnormalities.
 Case Illustration : A 6-year-old boy presented with high intraocular pressure (IOP) on the right eye (RE) four months before admission. Cataract surgery on both eye was done four years prior, due to congenital cataract. On examination, the visual acuity of the RE was hand movement with IOP 61mmHg with medications. Anterior chamber was shallow, posterior synechiae was found and posterior segment was hard to be evaluated. The fellow eye was nonfunctional with IOP 31mmHg. Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) was performed followed by implantation of GDD (Virna Glaucoma Implant) with posterior chamber sulcus tube placement without adding a new incision. Post-operatively, IOP was 3mmHg and choroidal detachment was found. With steroid medication, satisfactory IOP control was achieved within three weeks of follow-up. Visual acuity of RE was improved to 0.5/60.
 Discussion : In eyes with shallow anterior segments, tube placed in the anterior chamber may increase the risk of corneal endothelial injury. Placement of the silicone tube in the posterior chamber sulcus is an effective alternative technique. Although it is relatively safe in experienced hands, vitrectomy and insertion of the tube into the posterior segment carries significant risks, including choroidal detachment. Careful monitoring and management is needed to control IOP and maintain vision.
 Conclusion : Combined GDD implantation and PPV may be considered for refractory aphakic glaucoma, showing favorable outcomes with a relatively safe procedure.

The Efficiency of Black Soldier Fly Larvae with Vegetable, Fruit and Food Waste as Biological Tool for Sustainable Management of Organic Waste

This study investigated the sustainable management of wet organic waste using Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) for an innovative biological approach to waste management. The organic wet wastes such as fruit, vegetable, and food wastes were processed and fed to BSFL larvae from day 5 and the bioconversion process was carried out at Black Soldier Fly Unit, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University for 21 days. Among the three wastes, the highest bioconversion efficiency was recorded in fruit waste with 67% Substrate Reduction, 10.8% Efficiency of Conversion of Digested feed, 5.7% Bio Conversion Rate, and 4.18 Waste Reduction Index after 21 days. Whereas vegetable and food waste achieved similar bioconversion efficiency. The results suggest that BSFL-based bioconversion can be an effective and eco-friendly waste management and resource recovery technique to significantly lower the volumes of organic wet waste while converting it into high-value biomass and leading to a circular economy model.

Zinc Ferrite Nanoparticle Coatings on Austenitic Alloy Steel.

The phase transition of austenitic stainless steel of commercial label CL20ES and zinc ferrite nanoparticles was studied in an oxidative atmosphere of dry air to develop a low-cost, effective technique for covering-layer fabrication. CL20ES powder and zinc ferrite powder were mechanically mixed. This mixture was studied in an atmosphere of dry air at different annealing temperatures from room temperature to 900 °C. The employed characterization techniques are X-ray powder diffraction, Mössbauer spectroscopy in the transmission geometry, and scanning electron microscopy with elemental mapping. The fabricated layers were also characterized by surface-specific techniques such as conversion electron Mössbauer spectroscopy and grazing incidence X-ray powder diffraction. The analyzed powder mixture shows resistance against oxidation in dry air and high temperatures. These results were employed to produce zinc ferrite covering layers on 3D-printed cylinders of CL20ES. The results show a predisposition of zinc ferrite to be recrystallized at temperatures above 350 °C without the production of corrosive substances on steel. The zinc ferrite layers were analyzed by an ultrasonic hardness tester as well, which proved the hardness enhancement.

Micro-mechanical properties and associated strengthening mechanism of Be-Al-Ag-Si alloys fabricated by electron beam welding technique

Owing to excellent mechanical properties, beryllium‑aluminum (BeAl) alloys have garnered significant attentions as advanced structural materials in the military sector. However, they also suffer from extremely low solubility between Be and Al, and a lack of effective techniques for large-scale BeAl alloy fabrication. In this study, Be-Al-Ag-Si alloys were fabricated with significantly refined microstructures and improved micro-mechanical properties by incorporating additional Ag and Si elements and utilizing electron beam welding (EBW) technique. Micropillar compression results indicate that the yield strength (YS) of the fusion zone (FZ) in the as-welded Be-Al-Ag-Si alloys is approximately 540 MPa, which is around 135% higher than that of the substrate zone (SZ) with YS of approximately 230 MPa. The significant improvement can be mainly attributed to the grain boundary strengthening and dislocation strengthening due to the rapid heating/cooling rate and high thermal residual stress in the FZ, as revealed by microstructural analysis. Additionally, other strengthening mechanisms, such as Orowan and GP zone strengthening, could also make a contribution. These results offer further understanding towards the production of large-scale BeAl alloys with improved flow ability and mechanical properties.

Effectiveness of Benson’s Relaxation Technique In Stressed PCOD Women

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrinological disorder in women, causing metabolic dysfunction and body composition changes. As of June 30, 2022, WHO estimates indicate over 116 million women (3.4%) globally are affected by PCOS. Stress, defined as worry and mental tension from difficult situations, is a major contributor to reproductive dysfunction. Reports increasingly highlight stress's role in PCOS manifestation. The study aims to assess the Benson relaxation technique's effectiveness in alleviating stress in women with PCOS. Aim: To determine the effectiveness of Benson's relaxation technique in stressed PCOD. Methodology: Study Design: Experimental study, Study setting: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital, Department of Physiotherapy, Bangalore -560045 Sample design: Purposive sampling. Sample size: 30 patients. Result: A significant reduction in stress among PCOD women was observed with the use of Benson’s Relaxation Technique. The pre-perceived stress score before the technique was 22.63±5.26, decreasing to 18.23±5.98 post-intervention. The enhancement score was 4.40, with a t-value of 11.08. The analysis indicates a substantial stress reduction among PCOD women using Benson’s Relaxation Technique, as assessed through the Perceived Stress Scale (p<0.001). Conclusion: The study conclusively demonstrated the efficacy of Benson's Relaxation Technique in alleviating stress among women with PCOD. The analysis revealed a significant shift in stress levels, with 33.4% transitioning from high to moderate stress, 30.3% from moderate to low, and 30% maintaining moderate stress. Only 3.3% had low stress persisting, and the same percentage had persistent high stress. The pre-intervention stress score was 22.63526, decreasing to 18.2315.98 post-intervention, yielding a noteworthy enhancement score of 4.40. This signifies a statistically significant reduction in perceived stress (p<0.001), supported by a t-value of 11.08. KEYWORDS: Benson’s relaxation technique, PCOD, Perceived Stress Scale Stress.

A Study on Image Noise Removal Techniques for Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Medical image denoising is very important and challenging area in the field of image processing. MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) is very popular and most effective imaging technique. During the acquisition, MR images affected by random noise can be modeled as Gaussian or Rician distribution. In last few decades, so many denoising techniques were proposed but there are some limitations with the algorithms, because image edges and fine details are need to preserve. So there is need of compromise between de-noising quality and edge preservation to use images for real time application. Computation time is also very important parameter to implement the algorithms. In this paper, we have done an overview of different denoising algorithm. It observes that NLM (Non-Local Means) filter is much better than other existing state of art methods. Here study is done for enhancement of NLM to improve the performance. Results of different algorithms show that PCA (Principal Component Analysis) based algorithm with NLM performs much better in both quantitative and qualitative manner.

Waste Matters: A Comprehensive Exploration of Solid Waste Management in Krishnanagar City for Sustainable Solutions

Solid Waste Management (SWM) is a term used to address the management of waste and garbage. Given the communal living of human beings, the generation of a substantial amount of waste has transformed Solid Waste Management into a global concern. Defined as non-liquid waste material devoid of utility for human beings, solid waste stems from diverse sources such as domestic households, commercial enterprises, industrial operations, medical facilities, and institutional activities. In India, solid waste significantly contributes to environmental degradation, with improper management posing potential hazards. Over time, India has employed various techniques for Solid Waste Management. However, traditional methods, once effective, are now deemed less efficient and contribute to environmental harm due to population growth and shifts in the types of generated waste. Consequently, newer, more effective techniques have been introduced for SWM, aiming to minimize environmental impact. Krishnanagar city, much like other urban areas, grapples with solid waste management challenges, leading to a continual rise in waste production. Consequently, it becomes imperative to handle municipal waste in a systematic, cost-effective, and secure manner. This study reviews the current state of SWM in Krishnanagar city, offering a comprehensive overview. Through an analysis of all functional aspects related to SWM, the study draws conclusions and provides recommendations to enhance the existing waste management system in Krishnanagar city. The revisions made emphasize clarity, coherence, and relevance, ensuring the information is presented in a more refined and plagiarism-free manner.

Effects of Circuit Class Training Versus Individual, Task Specific Training on Upper Extremity Function in Chronic Stroke Patients

Background: Stroke is a leading contributor to disability globally, emphasizing the need for effective rehabilitation techniques. Circuit class training (CCT) and individual, task-specific training (ITST) have emerged as potential approaches for enhancing upper extremity function in stroke survivors. Comparative analyses of their efficacy, especially among chronic stroke patients, are scant. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the impacts of CCT and ITST on upper extremity spasticity, motor function, and quality of life in individuals with chronic stroke. Methods: In a randomized controlled trial, 36 chronic stroke patients were allocated to either CCT or ITST groups. Participants were aged 45-70 years, had experienced a single stroke episode, and were at least 6 months post-stroke, with specific inclusion criteria regarding spasticity and motor function levels. The interventions were delivered for 1.5 hours daily, five days a week, over eight weeks. Outcomes were measured using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) for spasticity, Functional Independence Measure for Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) for motor function, and Stroke-Specific Quality of Life (SS-QOL) scale for quality of life, analyzed using SPSS version 25. Results: Post-intervention, both CCT and ITST participants exhibited significant improvements in their outcomes. MAS scores showed a reduction in spasticity, with average improvements not significantly differing between the groups. FMA-UE scores increased by an average of 10 points in both groups, indicating enhanced motor function without a significant difference between the groups (p > 0.05). SS-QOL scores improved by an average of 20 points in each group, reflecting better quality of life, with no significant intergroup difference observed. Conclusion: The study concludes that CCT and ITST are equally effective in ameliorating upper extremity spasticity, motor function, and quality of life among chronic stroke patients. The selection between CCT and ITST can thus be personalized based on patient preferences, available resources, and logistical considerations, maintaining rehabilitation efficacy.

Examining the relations between interventionists' use of classroom management and student mathematics gains within a Tier 2 kindergarten mathematics intervention

AbstractEffective classroom management is critical to supporting student learning and success in school. However, little research has focused specifically on the impact of classroom management on student mathematics achievement, especially in the early elementary grades or in a small group (i.e., Tier 2) context. To address this need we investigated the relationship between classroom management and student mathematics achievement within the context of ROOTS, a validated Tier 2 kindergarten mathematics intervention taught by paraprofessionals. Results show that the quality of classroom management within the ROOTS intervention predicted gains in student mathematics achievement from pretest to posttest. These findings have critical implications for practitioners, including the importance of integrating effective classroom management techniques into Tier 2 mathematics intervention groups and supporting paraprofessionals' knowledge and use of effective classroom management.

3D printed guide-assisted percutaneous screw fixation for minimally displaced scaphoid waist fractures with delayed diagnosis or presentation

ObjectivesTo Investigate the value of 3D printed guide-assisted percutaneous management of minimally displaced scaphoid waist fractures(Herbert’s B2) with delayed diagnosis or presentation.MethodsFrom October 2018 to February 2022, 10 patients with established delayed diagnoses and presentation of minimally displaced scaphoid waist fractures were treated with 3D printed guides assisted with percutaneous internal fixation without bone grafting. This technique was based on the patient’s preoperative CT and imported into the software. Based on Boolean subtraction, the most centralized screw placement position was identified and a customized guide was produced. Intraoperative percutaneous insertion of the guide wire was assisted by the custom guide.ResultsAll 10 patients were successful in one attempt. The fractures healed at a mean of 7.7 weeks postoperatively (range 6–10 weeks). At a mean follow-up of 7.7 months (6–13 months), patients had excellent recovery of wrist function with minimal pain reduction. There were no major postoperative complications and the patients all returned to their previous activities before the injury.ConclusionsPercutaneous internal fixation based on 3D printed guides is a safe and effective technique for delayed diagnosis or presentation of patients with minimally displaced fractures of the scaphoid waist. This method allows for easy insertion of screws and avoids multiple attempts.