Journal articles: 'University of Virginia. Extension Division' – Grafiati (2024)

Abstract:

The Department of Neurosurgery at the Medical College of Virginia/Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2019. It was founded by C. C. Coleman, who directed the US Army School of Brain Surgery during World War I and was one of the original members of the Society of Neurological Surgeons. Coleman began a residency program that was among the first four such programs in the United States and that produced such prominent graduates as Frank Mayfield, Gayle Crutchfield, and John Meredith. Neurosurgery at VCU later became a division under the medical school’s surgery department. Division chairs included William Collins and Donald Becker. It was during the Becker years that VCU became a leading National Institutes of Health–funded neurotrauma research center. Harold Young oversaw the transition from division to department and expanded the practice base of the program. In 2015, Alex Valadka assumed leadership and established international collaborations for research and education. In its first 100 years, VCU Neurosurgery has distinguished itself as an innovator in clinical research and an incubator of compassionate and service-oriented physicians.

Abstract:

This feature article describes a collaboration between the West Virginia University Extension Service and the West Virginia Department of Education to implement the “Responsible Students through School Wide Positive Behavior Supports” program (RS-SWPBS) throughout the state. A case study of Grandview Elementary School in Kanawha County illustrates the benefits that the collaboration brought to local youth. West Virginia Department of Education established the program and brought local schools onboard, while educators from the West Virginia University Extension Service became coaches and led the effort to collect and analyze data. Results included the development of positive behaviors, a decrease in negative behaviors, and the creation of a positive school climate.

Abstract:

This discussion was moderated by Harrison (Hap) Farber, MD, Professor, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, and Director, Pulmonary Hypertension Center, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts. Panel members included Richard M. Silver, MD, Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics and Director of the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina; Virginia D. Steen, MD, Proffessor of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, DC; and Charles Strange, MD, Professor of Pulmonary Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina.

Abstract:

Not-On-Tobacco (N-O-T) is a voluntary smoking cessation program for teens. The West Virginia Prevention Research Center (WVPRC) partnered with West Virginia University Extension Service to test a regional implementation model of N-O-T within the current 4-H infrastructure. Directed content analysis was used to allow for pre-determined themes and categories to be assessed by identifying barriers and successes at each phase of model implementation. The project effectively set a foundation of collaboration between Extension and the WVPRC, highlighted the differences between prevention theories and positive youth development ideology and showcased that Extension’s efforts are more successful when county based.

Abstract:

This discussion was moderated by Ronald J. Oudiz, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, UCLA School of Medicine and Director, Liu Center for Pulmonary Hypertension, Division of Cardiology, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California. Participants included: Hunter C. Champion, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; Robert Naeije, MD, PhD, Professor and Chairman of the Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology at Erasme University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium; Virginia D. Steen, MD, Professor of Medicine and Director of the Rheumatology Fellowship Program, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC; and David Systrom, MD, Director, Cardiopulmonary Exercise Lab, Department of Medicine, Pulmonary Critical Care, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.

Abstract:

West Virginia University Extension Service has taken steps to increase the awareness and practices of good oral health. Significant barriers exist for optimal dental health and preventive care for youth in West Virginia. The 4-H Health Initiative strengthens community 4-H clubs through joint commitment to improve the Health “H,” club reliance on youth leadership, responsiveness to youth voices, and involvement of community health resources. These efforts bring oral health education and services to school-age youth. Evaluation data suggest that the model may impact oral health behaviors.

Abstract:

Since fall 2015, the University of Virginia’s (UVA) Engineering Student Council (ESC) has partnered with the nonprofit Virginia Science Olympiad (VASO) organization to host a Science Olympiad (SciOly) state tournament in Charlottesville, Virginia, each spring. This annual tournament brings over 2,000 middle and high school students, teachers, and parents to the UVA campus, and teams of 15–17 people from roughly 90 schools across Virginia participate in 46 different events (23 middle school, Division B; 23 high school, Division C) relating to the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields throughout the day-long competition. The national SciOly organization sets the events and rules to comply with national education standards, and the VASO board coordinates the teams and tournaments within the state. By collaborating with VASO, UVA ESC was able to plan a large-scale SciOly tournament at UVA in approximately 10 mo with the support of the UVA School of Engineering and Applied Science. Since this event was planned and executed solely by undergraduates in cooperation with the nonprofit organization, there were institutional hurdles that were overcome through the months of planning. The Virginia SciOly state tournament has continued to be held at UVA with the support and cooperation of the UVA ESC and VASO, and bringing this tournament to UVA has allowed for increased excitement for participating K–12 students and a mitigated burden to the VASO organizers in planning the state competition. This paper aims to provide a resource for other universities to support STEM activities in K–12 outreach organizations, like SciOly, in the future.

Abstract:

In recent years, Division I athletics programs have hired counseling or clinical psychologists as a resource for student-athletes who need assistance with clinical issues, personal difficulties, and performance issues. This article documents the evolution of this type of position at Virginia Tech and includes a discussion of the goals of the clinical sport psychologist position, an overview of the daily activities the position entails, and a discussion of the issues that comprise the assessment, conceptualization, and treatment of student-athlete concerns. Models for conceptualizing and delivering sport psychology interventions are also discussed. Evidence indicates that having access to a mental health professional familiar with the issues facing college athletes can be instrumental in helping many of these student-athletes achieve success in the university setting.

Abstract:

Global experts in pulmonary hypertension attended the 2009 American College of Chest Physicians meeting in San Diego. While there, Dr Nicholas Hill, Chief of the Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Division, Tufts Medical Center, and Professor of Medicine, Tufts University, Boston; and Dr Steven Nathan, Medical Director, Lung Transplant and Advanced Lung Disease Program, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Falls Church, Virginia, talked with guest editor Dr Omar A. Minai to share their perspectives on current diagnosis, management, and future outlook for pulmonary hypertension patients with existing lung disease and hypoxia.

Abstract:

ABSTRACT Recycled shipping containers have the potential to be successfully used as a net-zero ready home. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of a high-performance shipping container single-family housing project located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The project was awarded the Best Undergraduate Project in the Single-family division at the 2019 U.S. Department of Energy's Solar Decathlon Design Challenge. The Hampton University Millennial Village Design Team designed a marketable net-zero ready container home for the ViBe Creative District in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Container Homes are not suitable for every homeowner, but they have a particular appeal to a generation of young and creative people across the country. For many municipalities in Virginia, where container housing is not readily accepted, the ViBe creative district has been having discussions with City code officials and local architects about the benefits. The Hampton University Millennial Village Design Team aimed to take advantage of the competition as an opportunity to explore a building construction method that is not widely seen in this part of the country. Testing design for net-zero readiness is a comprehensive way to understand how this type of construction performs from a building science standpoint. Collaboration with professional industry advisors helped the team to use research-based design methods to work on a unique project that the team believes will become a reality in the future. For the performance assessment of a net-zero container house, several simulation tools were used to investigate the environmental impacts, daylight performance, envelope performance, Energy Use Intensity (EUI), Home Energy Rating System (HERS), and solar energy generation. As for energy standards and codes, the Virginia residential code (VRC) 2015, International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) 2015 and The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) 90.1-2013 for residential buildings were consulted to set each variable for the net-zero container house project. The Rem/Rate energy simulation software achieved the HERS index of 51 and 0 without and with the applications of roof photovoltaics, respectively.

Abstract:

In a unique partnership. the University of Kentucky Dept. of Horticulture, the Cooperative Extension Service, and the Kentucky State Division of Forestry are teaming up to produce two training packages for “train-the-trainer” workshops throughout the state. The workshops will be open to people interested in urban/community trees and arboriculture. The first training session will be held in 1993 and will cover five modules: 1) Designing the planting site to compensate for a disturbed environment; 2) Species selection for the existing site; 3) Scientific planting techniques; 4) Post-planting care: and 5) Integrated pest management. The second training session will be held in 1994 and will cover the following topics: 1) Establishing a scientific management program for the urban forest; 2) Preparation and administration of grants: 3) Fund-raising and efficient use of volunteers; 4) Developing an urban tree inventory; 5) Recognition of hazard trees; and 6) Selecting quality nursery stock. The training packages will consist of a written manual, videos, and slide sets. Training sessions are open to foresters, county agents, city planners, developers, and others in Kentucky who are interested in returning to their communities and training others on the topics covered.

Abstract:

Over the past decade, the University of Virginia has been experiencing a culture change towards becoming a more contemplative and compassionate institution. The leaders of this change seek, ultimately, to enhance and influence every aspect of the mission and community of this large, prestigious public institution. Of course, multi-layered and pervasive culture change does not occur instantaneously. Rather, the establishment in 2009 of the UVA School of Nursing’s Compassionate Care Initiative, followed by the launch in 2012 of the pan-university UVA Contemplative Sciences Center have led to an array of targeted initiatives that incorporate both the health system – consisting of the School of Nursing, School of Medicine, and the UVA Medical Center – and the university’s academic division, consisting of nine additional schools as well as the ancillary units that support the wider university. This article provides a set of detailed examples of efforts implemented by these two centers in support of a culture change towards more compassionate teaching, research, patient care, and service. Examples will include: supporting compassion and self-care through retreats in the School of Nursing and research assessing the impact of this and additional co-curricular programming via cross-sectional survey of nurses discussion of student, faculty and clinical Ambassadors who serve as compassion mentors across the UVA Health System consideration of contemplative pedagogy within the UVA undergraduate course Mindfulness & Compassion: Towards Living Fully, Personally & Professionally discussion of pan-university co-curricular programming serving the university community that seeks to create impact at an institution-wide level. The impact and outcomes of each example will be considered, individually and as part of a larger shift towards creating a compassionate, contemplative university for the modern era.

Abstract:

Esthesioneuroblastoma is a rare and malignant upper nasal cavity neoplasm involving the anterior skull base. Treatment includes surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination. The ideal treatment modality has yet to be determined. Esthesioneuroblastoma often lies in proximity to the optic nerves, optic chiasm, and the orbit. Resection risks damaging these critical structures, and radiotherapeutic techniques, similar to those applied for paranasal sinus tumors, may damage these vital structures and result in late sequelae such as blindness and cortical necrosis. Management strategies for this neoplasm lack uniformity, and there is no universally accepted staging system. In this paper the authors discuss the clinical presentation, radiological and pathological features, and treatment of this rare, malignant skull base neoplasm, as well as review the literature. They also present their results and treatment regimen, which includes preoperative radio- and chemotherapy or 1) craniofacial resection if the lesion has a significant intrac-erebral component, or 2) frontal sinus resection if little intracranial extension exists.

Abstract:

This paper presents the extension of a sustainable water purification project conducted by engineering students from the University of Venda in South Africa and the University of Virginia in the United States. Through collaboration with faculty at both universities and a community in rural South Africa, the student team facilitated the repair of a water filtration system installed the previous year. While the team had the specific goal to repair the system, they entered into this commitment with an open-ended approach to problem solving that drew heavily on community engagement and participation. The following paper describes the technical details of the project and the process by which the community was enabled to take the lead in the assessment, design and implementation of a sustainable repair to their water filtration system.

Abstract:

A low profile prosthesis was designed using a flexible liner in conjunction with a rigid shell, with a toe extension. Thus far, two paediatric patients have been fitted with the device, at the University of Virginia Medical Center. One patient is a five year old with a Lisfranc level amputation and the other, a sixteen year old with a Chopart level amputation. Both patients have successfully worn their prostheses, full time, for over two years. The prostheses these children have been wearing are comfortable, functional and cosmetic. The prostheses provide excellent suspension, a good weight-bearing surface and an anterior lever arm for push-off during late stance phase.

Abstract:

Abstract Economically damaging infestations of Lygus lineolaris (Palisot de Beauvois), tarnished plant bug, were sporadic in Virginia and North Carolina cotton before 2010. Given the sudden rise of L. lineolaris as an economic pest in these states, regionally specific management practices (i.e., chemical and cultural control) are needed to help producers protect yield potential while minimizing input costs. Field experiments were conducted in Virginia and North Carolina in 2018 and 2019 to 1) determine the effects of various management practices on L. lineolaris density, plant injury (i.e., square retention, internal boll injury), and lint yield, 2) calculate the economic trade-offs between integrated pest management (IPM) systems approach and current management practices for L. lineolaris in these states, and 3) evaluate economic benefits associated with various sampling thresholds. Lygus lineolaris populations peaked mid-season (i.e., August) during cotton flowering in both states. Weekly scouting and applying foliar insecticides when the current University Extension recommended economic threshold was reached was the most critical management treatment in maximizing economic returns. Additional costs among various IPM practices did not translate into significant yield protection and economic gains. Moreover, there were additional economic benefits associated with protecting glabrous and longer maturing varieties in Virginia. Lygus lineolaris density varied significantly between states; therefore, management recommendations should be modified based on the growing region. Results from this study will be used to create an IPM strategy to help cotton producers effectively manage this insect pest in the Southeast.

Abstract:

Very well-researched and well-written, this book provides an excellent discussion of the activities of federal surveillance agencies in the Pittsburgh mill district (western Pennsylvania, northern West Virginia, and eastern Ohio). However, Seeing Reds is neither about surveillance agencies nor the Pittsburgh Left per se, but rather about their intersection: the “federal government's effort to define, understand, and suppress leftists” during the period of World War One. It begins with an excellent survey of the early history of federal surveillance agencies, including the Bureau of Investigation (BI), the Office of Naval Intelligence, the Military Intelligence Division, and the American Protective League. McCormick pays special attention to the BI, the original name of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He looks closely at four men who, as special agents in the Pittsburgh Field Office, played a particularly important part in his story. Each had a background in either police and/or private investigative work or a college degree and/or legal training.

Abstract:

Sustainable Agriculture Research wishes to acknowledge the following individuals for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Their help and contributions in maintaining the quality of the journal are greatly appreciated.Sustainable Agriculture Research is recruiting reviewers for the journal. If you are interested in becoming a reviewer, we welcome you to join us. Please find the application form and details at http://www.ccsenet.org/reviewer and e-mail the completed application form to sar@ccsenet.org. Reviewers for Volume 6, Number 1Abha Mishra, Asian Institute of Technology, ThailandAftab Alam, Vice President Agriculture (R&D), Edenworks Inc. New York, United StatesAmor Slama, Science Faculty of Bizerte, TunisiaAndre Lindner, Dresden University of Technology, Tropical Forestry, GermanyBernard Palmer Kfuban Yerima, University of Dschang, CameroonBeye Amadou Amadou Moustapha, Rice Research Center, Côte d'IvoireDario Stefanelli, Department of Primary Industries, AustraliaDietrich Darr, Hochschule Rhein-Waal, GermanyInder Pal Singh, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Science University (GADVASU), IndiaIvo Grgic, University of Zagreb, CroatiaJose Antonio Alburquerque, Spanish National Research Council (CEBAS-CSIC), SpainKhaled Sassi, National Agronomic Institute of Tunisia, TunisiaMahmoud Shehata Mahmoud, Alexandria University, EgyptManuel Teles Oliveira, University Tras os Montes Alto Douro (UTAD), PortugalMirela Kopjar, University of Osijek, CroatiaMohammad Valipour, Payame Noor University, IranMurtazain Raza, Subsidiary of Habib Bank AG Zurich, PakistanNehemie Tchinda Donfa*gsiteli, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, CameroonRabia Rehman, University of the Punjab, PakistanRoberto José Zoppolo, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (Uruguay), UruguaySilviu Beciu, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Bucharest, RomaniaStefano Marino, University of Molise, ItalySubbu Kumarappan, Ohio State ATI, United StatesSuheb Mohammed, University of Virginia, United StatesTunde Akim Omokanye, Agricultural Research and Extension Council of Alberta (ARECA), CanadaWei Wang, Vanderbilt University, United States

Abstract:

The 331-hectare (819-acre) Difficult Creek Natural Area Preserve (DCNAP) was established in Halifax County, Virginia to protect and manage habitat for rare vascu-lar plant species and animals, and to restore plant communities. Mafic metavolcanic rocks of the Virgilina Formation and felsic metavolcanic and metasedimentary rocks of the Aaron Formation comprise the geologic units on the preserve. The Virgilina-derived soils have high shrink-swell potential, a dense hardpan layer, relatively high base status, and a significant gravelly or stony component; these soil conditions support the highest density of rare plant species known on the preserve. The first noteworthy vascular plant species were documented from the property in 1972 by botanist Alton Harvill of Longwood University, but detailed investigations of the flora did not begin until the site was revisited by the second author in 1993. Rare plant inventory has been the primary focus of botanists since that time. In 2001, the property was acquired by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Division of Natural Heritage (DCR) and dedicated as a state Natural Area Preserve, at which point active management for natural communities and associated rare species was initiated. Since the rare plants on site thrive in open woodland or savanna-like conditions, prescribed burns and timber harvests have been used by DCR stewards to restore habitat after decades of fire suppression and conversion of hardwood stands to loblolly pine plantations. In 2018, a thorough floristic study was initiated to highlight the significance of this flora beyond the documentation of rare plants. The two-year inventory documented 653 plant taxa, comprising 326 genera in 106 families. Fourteen of these species are of conservation concern at the global or state level; an additional 12 taxa are considered uncommon and of potential conservation concern (Townsend 2019). These rare or uncommon species are components of two globally rare plant communities. In addition, the globally rare lepidopteran, Erynnis martialis (Mottled Duskywing), occurs on the preserve, the only extant population known in Virginia. Due to agricultural impacts and widespread fire exclusion, few analogs to this flora exist within the southern Piedmont of Virginia.

Abstract:

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the correlation between facial sensory abnormalities and lesional topography in eight patients with lateral medullary infarcts (LMIs). METHOD: We reviewed eight sequential cases of LMIs admitted to the Neurology Division of Hospital das Clínicas/ São Paulo University between July, 2001 and August, 2002 except for one patient who had admitted in 1996 and was still followed in 2002. All patients were submitted to conventional brain MRI including axial T1-, T2-weighted and Fluid attenuated inversion-recovery (FLAIR) sequences. MRIs were evaluated blindly to clinical features to determine extension of the infarct to presumed topographies of the ventral trigeminothalamic (VTT), lateral spinothalamic, spinal trigeminal tracts and spinal trigeminal nucleus. RESULTS: Sensory symptoms or signs were ipsilateral to the bulbar infarct in 3 patients, contralateral in 4 and bilateral in 1. In all of our cases with exclusive contralateral facial sensory symptoms, infarcts had medial extensions that included the VTT topography. In cases with exclusive ipsilateral facial sensory abnormalities, infarcts affected lateral and posterior bulbar portions, with slight or no medial extension. The only patient who presented bilateral facial symptoms had an infarct that covered both medial and lateral, in addition to the posterior region of the medulla. CONLUSION: Our results show a correlation between medial extension of LMIs and presence of contralateral facial sensory symptoms.

Abstract:

Inbar and Lammers asked members of APA Division 8 (personality and social psychology) about their political orientation, hostility experienced related to their political orientation, and their willingness to discriminate against others based on perceived political orientation. In this replication and extension, 618 faculty members from various academic disciplines across four California State University campuses completed an online questionnaire that added parallel questions about the liberal experience to the original questions about the conservative experience. Participants were overwhelmingly liberal in self-report across all academic areas except agriculture. The conservative minority reported experiencing more hostility than the liberal majority, but both groups expressed similar “in-group/out-group” attitudes. Results supported the ideological-conflict hypothesis for discrimination and a “birds of a feather flock together” interpretation of the lack of political diversity among the professoriate.

Abstract:

A situation-based or modified case study approach to learning has been adopted in an upper division fruit production course that is taught at Oregon State University in the Department of Horticulture. A new case study, which will have a high probability of generating discussion on key pomological themes, is developed each term. On the first meeting day of class, students identify relevant themes in the case study. A modified jigsaw cooperative learning strategy is then used to cover the relevant subject matter throughout the term. While using this strategy, groups of two to three students become experts on a theme and are responsible for sharing their knowledge with their peers. The instructor mentors the experts by reviewing assignments created by them, checking answers to assignments, and administering quizzes on the themes. About midterm, larger groups of six to seven students begin their preparation of an oral presentation and written synthesis of the goals and possible pathways for achieving the targets of the primary stakeholders (i.e., orchardists, field representatives, extension faculty, etc.) that are presented in the case study. The groups make their presentations to the stakeholders at the end of the term. Students are required to prepare an individual written report. This learning approach links theory with practice, gives students practice in extensively analyzing a situation, enables students to become conversant in and knowledgeable of basic pomology, builds positive relationships between fellow students, and provides multiple experiences for communicating information and student's discoveries.

Abstract:

Definitive radiotherapy for early glottic carcinoma continues to offer excellent control and the advantage of voice preservation. In the 13 years from January 1972 through December 1984, there were 187 patients diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the glottis at the University of Virginia Medical Center. One hundred forty-eight patients were treated with definitive radiotherapy as the initial management. The 3-year disease-free survival for the irradiated population was 93.6% in stage I and 75.5% in stage II. Twenty patients had recurrences following radiotherapy, and 13 of 20 were successfully surgically salvaged for an overall determinate survival of 100% in stage I and 85.7% in stage II at 3 years. These statistics are comparable to those from our previous 16-year review of 147 patients from 1956 through 1971. Factors of prognostic significance were persistent hoarseness after radiotherapy, impaired cord mobility, subglottic extension, and multiple sites of involvement in stage I. We conclude that definitive radiotherapy offers excellent survival and that a majority of the small number of treatment failures can be managed with surgical salvage.

Abstract:

Throughout the developing world, unequal levels of access to technology have created a social gap called the digital divide; a considerable disparity in technological opportunities that reinforces social and economic division. Concerned with this development, a five person student research team from the University of Virginia was assembled in order to investigate the technological gaps in poor, semi-urban areas of Honduras and to implement a cost-effective, sustainable way to address them. The team used a flexible engineering-based approach to gather and analyze information about community, government, and economic factors relevant to the project, documenting its methodology along the way. The results of the investigation were then tested through the installation of a computer lab for a local school in the community of Las Brisas de la Libertad, in the district of Yoro, Honduras. This paper documents this installation process and describes in detail the considerations needed for its successful and sustainable implementation including community interests, political instability, hardware options, and weather. By analyzing these aspects from their respective advantages and disadvantages, it hopes to serve as a guide for future engineering-oriented service-learning endeavors in international settings.

Abstract:

Mutual improvement, an early form of lifelong learning, was widespread among the nineteenth-century working classes and has been portrayed as a variable and relatively unstructured phenomenon. This essay challenges this view by examining the movement in north-east Scotland in the nineteenth century and its symbiotic relationship with library activity as libraries provided information to facilitate debate. The movement originated in the 1830s and flourished until the end of the century. Mutual improvement activity was fuelled by religious division and a relationship with the Liberal Party. The principal ideologue of the movement, which peaked in the 1850s, was Robert Harvie Smith, who articulated a sophisticated lifelong learning ideology supported by specific learning objectives, prioritised in order. A notable feature was the involvement of women in the movement. Most of the participants were tradesmen or small tenant farmers, and the subjects of their debates reflected their preoccupations: modern farming, religious controversy, and the ‘farm servant problem’. The movement anticipated the university extension movement by about thirty years. Because the north-east had its own university and was a self-contained learning culture, mutual improvers might proceed to university, thus anticipating modern ideas about received prior learning (RPL) and articulation. Mutual improvement activity demonstrates the continuing intellectual vitality in rural Scotland in the late nineteenth century.

Abstract:

This paper investigates constraints and complexities affecting entrepreneurial and Agri-business small-scale communal cattle farming success and sustainability in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The respondent entrepreneur farmers were randomly selected (n=55) amongst 183 other farmers for primary data collection. A semi-structured cross-language (English-Tshivenda) questionnaire was employed to gather the data. Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were also employed. The results of this paper revealed that the entrepreneur farmers’ formal school educational levels and basic literacy skills in addition; subtraction; multiplication and division were reasonably higher while technological skills in farm risk management and production, and managerial competence in business financial skills; budgeting and marketing were low amongst the farmers. Government extension service could be employed to improve some of these deficient skills through skills training programmes for the farmers. Institutions of higher learning such as the University of Venda and Madzivhandila Agricultural College could be utilized for the trainings.

Abstract:

We construct three families of vertex algebras along with their modules from appropriate vertex Lie algebras, using the constructions in [Vertex Lie algebra, vertex Poisson algebras and vertex algebras, in Recent Developments in Infinite-Dimensional Lie Algebras and Conformal Field Theory[Formula: see text] Proceedings of an International Conference at University of Virginia[Formula: see text] May 2000, in Contemporary Mathematics, Vol. 297 (American Mathematical Society, 2002), pp. 69–96] by Dong, Li and Mason. These vertex algebras are strongly graded vertex algebras introduced in [Logarithmic tensor category theory for generalized modules for a conformal vertex algebra, I: Introduction and strongly graded algebras and their generalized modules, in Conformal Field Theories and Tensor Categories[Formula: see text] Proceedings of a Workshop Held at Beijing International Center for Mathematics Research, eds. C. Bai, J. Fuchs, Y.-Z. Huang, L. Kong, I. Runkel and C. Schweigert, Mathematical Lectures from Beijing University, Vol. 2 (Springer, New York, 2014), pp. 169–248] by Huang, Lepowsky and Zhang in their logarithmic tensor category theory and can also be realized as vertex algebras associated to certain well-known infinite dimensional Lie algebras. We classify irreducible [Formula: see text]-gradable weak modules for these vertex algebras by determining their Zhu’s algebras. We find examples of strongly graded generalized modules for these vertex algebras that satisfy the [Formula: see text]-cofiniteness condition introduced in [Differential equations and logarithmic intertwining operators for strongly graded vertex algebra, Comm. Contemp. Math. 19(2) (2017) 1650009] by the second author. In particular, by a result of the second author [Differential equations and logarithmic intertwining operators for strongly graded vertex algebra, Comm. Contemp. Math. 19(2) (2017) 1650009, 26 pp.], the convergence and extension property for products and iterates of logarithmic intertwining operators in [Y.-Z. Huang, J. Lepowsky and L. Zhang, Logarithmic tensor category theory for generalized modules for a conformal vertex algebra, VII: Convergence and extension properties and applications to expansion for intertwining maps, preprint (2011); arXiv:1110.1929 ] among such strongly graded generalized modules is verified.

Abstract:

Abstract BACKGROUND: Studies of new-onset Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)-induced hypopituitarism in large cohort of pituitary adenoma patients with long-term follow-up are lacking. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the outcomes of SRS for pituitary adenoma patients with regard to newly developed hypopituitarism. METHODS: This was a retrospective review of patients treated with SRS at the University of Virginia between 1994 and 2006. A total of 262 patients with a pituitary adenoma treated with SRS were reviewed. Thorough endocrine assessment was performed immediately before SRS and in regular follow-ups. Assessment consisted of 24-hour urine free cortisol (patients with Cushing disease), serum adrenocorticotropic hormone, cortisol, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, insulin-like growth factor-1, growth hormone, testosterone (men), prolactin, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and free T4. RESULTS: Endocrine remission occurred in 144 of 199 patients with a functioning adenoma. Tumor control rate was 89%. Eighty patients experienced at least 1 axis of new-onset SRS-induced hypopituitarism. The new hypopituitarism rate was 30% based on endocrine follow-up ranging from 6 to 150 months; the actuarial rate of new pituitary hormone deficiency was 31.5% at 5 years after SRS. On univariate and multivariate analyses, variables regarding the increased risk of hypopituitarism included suprasellar extension and higher radiation dose to the tumor margin; there were no correlations among tumor volume, prior transsphenoidal adenomectomy, prior radiation therapy, and age at SRS. CONCLUSION: SRS provides an effective and safe treatment option for patients with a pituitary adenoma. Higher margin radiation dose to the adenoma and suprasellar extension were 2 independent predictors of SRS-induced hypopituitarism.

Abstract:

A workshop on ticks and tick-borne diseases (T&TBDs) was held on June 25 and 26, 2019, at the Tropical Pesticides Research Institute, Division of Livestock and Human Diseases Vector Control, Arusha, Tanzania. The objectives of the workshop were to discuss the current situation and to formulate actionable strategies to improve surveillance and control of T&TBDs in Africa. The workshop was funded by the National Research Foundation and the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and attended by livestock health providers, farmers, and researchers from East, West, and Southern African countries. During the workshop, experts presented recent surveillance data focused on T&TBDs; participants discussed research opportunities and community engagement. The primary outcome of the workshop was the creation of a new research consortium known as The African Consortium for T&TBDs. The consortium is intended to function as a community for researchers, students, farmers, policymakers, extension workers, and community members who are interested in the advancement of T&TBD control. The consortium will engage in research activities that focus on comprehensive surveillance of T&TBDs, developing tick acaricide resistance, alternative tick control programs, and policy development and education. These areas were identified as top priorities to be developed to improve T&TBD control on the continent.

Abstract:

IntroductionThe HORIZON 2020 project PoCOsteo aims (1) to develop a multidimensional fracture risk assessment tool which would take into account all factors known to be related to an individual’s fracture risk. The fracture risk model is intended to be developed in two different populations, namely a European and a Middle Eastern one; (2) to develop a medical device, which would measure and/or quantify proteomic as well as genomic factors as present in whole blood samples collected through finger prick; (3) to test the clinical applicability and the validity of prototypes of the to be developed point of care device at both clinical centres.Methods and analysisThis article presents the protocol of this prospective cohort that will be carried out independently at two different centres (Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology at the Medical University of Graz (MUG) as a clinic-based cohort, and Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute (EMRI) at the Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) as a population-based cohort). The final aim is to develop a fracture risk assessment model, which would include clinical risk factors, biochemical markers of bone turnover, as well as specific genomic factors. The derivation cohorts will consist of individuals aged 50 years and above. The period of observation for each patient will be 12 months; an extension phase, which would last for another 2 years, is also planned.Ethics and disseminationThese studies are conducted in accordance with the World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki. The Iranian part was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of EMRI, TUMS. The Austrian part was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Medical University of Graz. Based on the gathered information, a multidimensional fracture assessment tool will be designed which will later be added to the PoCOsteo device.

Abstract:

Abstract OBJECTIVE Silent corticotrophic adenomas (SCAs) of the pituitary gland present as clinically nonfunctioning sellar lesions, with normal serum and urine hormone testing results, but stain positively for adrenocorticotropic hormone in immunohistochemical analyses. These tumors are now more readily recognized, but determination of their natural history and responses to treatment is difficult because of their rarity. We report the diagnoses and outcomes for a series of patients with SCAs, and we describe the creation of an Internet-accessible database (www.hsc.virginia.edu/neuro/neurosurgery/pituitary.html) for collection of multi-institutional data on these lesions. METHODS The medical records of patients with documented SCAs who were treated at the University of Virginia between 1991 and 2002 were reviewed. A comprehensive data collection form was then created and posted online. RESULTS Twenty-seven patients with SCAs were identified, with a female predominance (70%, P = 0.04). Headache was the most common presenting symptom (70%), followed by visual field deficits (52%), acute or subacute pituitary apoplexy (33%), cavernous sinus syndrome (18.5%), and hypopituitarism (11.1%). Extrasellar extension was noted for 92.6% of patients on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging scans. Transsphenoidal surgery was performed for all patients. Follow-up information was available for all patients (median, 60 mo; range, 3–254 mo). Postoperatively, 33% of patients received radiotherapy. Recurrence was noted for 37% of all patients and 41.7% of patients who did not receive postoperative radiotherapy. CONCLUSION SCAs, although clinically nonfunctioning, may behave like aggressive adrenocorticotropic hormone-secreting adenomas and therefore should receive vigorous follow-up monitoring, with consideration being given to the recommendation of radiotherapy in cases with residual tumor.

Abstract:

AbstractAccording to the United States Census, California is the most urban state in the nation. Although there are many outstanding examples of urban farms in California, in general, urban agriculture (UA) has been slower to gain momentum here than in some other states with large urban populations. Over the past several years, urban agriculture's popularity in California has begun to escalate, with strong emerging interest in San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, San Diego, Los Angeles and other metropolitan communities. One challenge for urban farmers and municipal decision makers engaged with UA in California has been limited availability of relevant information and technical assistance. A new project team at the University of California Cooperative Extension, part of the Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) is working to develop web-based educational resources that will be grounded in a needs assessment that is currently underway. The needs assessment includes a literature review, an internal survey of UC ANR personnel, and community clientele interviews. This paper will report on preliminary findings and analyses of the needs assessment, particularly how UC ANR personnel are engaged with UA, and what tools they think would best serve urban farmers. We suggest implications for those involved with UA, such as personnel of land-grant universities, local governments and non-profits seeking to address the needs of urban farmers in an environment of constrained resources.

Abstract:

Extramedullary plasmacytomas are solitary tumors consisting of neoplastic plasma cell proliferations that occur in locations other than bone. On initial presentation they must be differentiated from multiple myeloma. This may prove to be difficult because a varying percentage may be associated at a later date with the development of multiple myeloma. Solitary extramedullary plasmacytomas represent up to 4% of nonepithelial lesions of the upper respiratory tract. From 1970 to 1990, at West Virginia University Hospitals, seven patients with solitary extramedullary plasmacytoma were identified. In four of these patients the tumor was located in the head and neck, with one tumor located in each of the following sites: temporoparietal scalp, maxillary sinus, nasopharynx, and cervical region. One patient had extensive destruction of the temporal bone, with extension intracranially to the middle cranial fossa. No patient had multiple myeloma, nor did any develop. Diagnosis was based on a combination of histology along with special immunoperoxidase staining for Ig lambda and kappa light chains. This will be demonstrated and discussed. Treatment consisted of radiotherapy in three cases, with doses ranging from 3175 to 6000 rad. One patient, treated with surgical excision, experienced a relapse at a distant site 6 years later. All patients have maintained local control and have been followed for a minimum of 1 1/2 years, with an average of 3 years. We describe our experience with these tumors and present a pertinent review of the literature. While these tumors may present as aggressive locally destructive lesions, their management should be as organ-sparing as possible because excellent control can be achieved in the majority of cases. Patients should be followed for life because multiple myeloma may develop in a significant number.

Abstract:

OBJECTIVEAnterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a safe and effective intervention to treat cervical spine pathology. Although these were originally performed as single-level procedures, multilevel ACDF has been performed for patients with extensive degenerative disc disease. To date, there is a paucity of data regarding outcomes related to ACDFs of 3 or more levels. The purpose of this study was to compare surgical outcomes of 3- and 4-level ACDF procedures.METHODSThe authors performed a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent 3- and 4-level ACDF at the University of Virginia Health System between January 2010 and December 2017. In patients meeting the inclusion/exclusion criteria, demographics, fusion rates, time to fusion, and reoperation rates were evaluated. Fusion was determined by < 1 mm of change in interspinous distance between individual fused vertebrae on lateral flexion/extension radiographs and lack of radiolucency between the grafts and vertebral bodies. Any procedure requiring a surgical revision was considered a failure.RESULTSSixty-six patients (47 with 3-level and 19 with 4-level ACDFs) met the inclusion/exclusion criteria of having at least one lateral flexion/extension radiograph series ≥ 12 months after surgery. Seventy percent of 3-level patients and 68% of 4-level patients had ≥ 24 months of follow-up. Ninety-four percent of 3-level patients and 100% of 4-level patients achieved radiographic fusion for at least 1 surgical level. Eighty-eight percent and 82% of 3- and 4-level patients achieved fusion at C3–4; 85% and 89% of 3- and 4-level patients achieved fusion at C4–5; 68% and 89% of 3- and 4-level patients achieved fusion at C5–6; 44% and 42% of 3- and 4-level patients achieved fusion at C6–7; and no patients achieved fusion at C7–T1. Time to fusion was not significantly different between levels. Revision was required in 6.4% of patients with 3-level and in 16% of patients with 4-level ACDF. The mean time to revision was 46.2 and 45.4 months for 3- and 4-level ACDF, respectively. The most common reason for revision was worsening of initial symptoms.CONCLUSIONSThe authors’ experience with long-segment anterior cervical fusions shows their fusion rates exceeding most of the reported fusion rates for similar procedures in the literature, with rates similar to those reported for short-segment ACDFs. Three-level and 4-level ACDF procedures are viable options for cervical spine pathology, and the authors’ analysis demonstrates an equivalent rate of fusion and time to fusion between 3- and 4-level surgeries.

Abstract:

Veldhuis JD, Iranmanesh A, Wilkowski MJ, Samojlik E. Neuroendocrine alterations in the somatotropic and lactotropic axes in uremic men. Eur J Endocrinol 1994;131:489–98. ISSN 0804–4643 To investigate the pathophysiology of altered growth hormone (GH) and prolactin secretion in endstage renal disease, we sampled blood at 10-min intervals for 24 h and applied deconvolution analysis to calculate hormone half-lives and pulsatile secretion rates. Two-site immunoradiometric assays were employed to quantitate presumptively intact GH and prolactin in nine middle-aged men with chronic renal failure and 14 gender-, age-, body weight- and community-matched controls. We observed that the half-lives of endogenous GH and prolactin were prolonged significantly in uremia: for GH, control 17 ±1.4 versus uremia 21 ±1.3 min (p < 0.05); for prolactin, control 66 ±9.3 versus uremia 112 ± 10 min (p < 0.01). Daily GH secretion rates exceeded sex-, age- and weight-predicted values in eight of nine uremic individuals, while values for prolactin were variable but on average twofold higher in uremia. In both the somatotropic and lactotropic axes, the frequency of secretory bursts was increased significantly (for GH, control 11 ± 1.1 versus uremia 15 ± 0.84 secretory events/24 h; for prolactin, control 20 ± 0.90 versus uremia 27 ± 1.3 pulses/24 h. p < 0.05). Although there were no significant alterations in the mean amplitude, duration or mass of GH secretory bursts, prolactin secretory burst amplitudes were elevated threefold in uremia (p < 0.01). These distinctive mechanisms brought about higher 24-h mean serum concentrations of GH (0.70 ±0.17 control versus 1.22 ± 0.32 μg/l uremia) and prolactin (7.3 ± 2.4 control versus 26 ± 6.1 μg/l uremia, p < 0.05). Lastly, serum concentrations of estradiol were increased but those of unconjugated estriol decreased in uremia. We conclude that hypersomatotropinemia and hyperprolactinemia in uremic men result from prolonged hormone half-lives combined with increased frequencies of secretory events driven by unknown stimuli within the respective axes, and/or by defects in their negative-feedback regulation. We postulate that the latter may arise from partial tissue resistance to hormone action in hemodialyzed men. JD Veldhuis, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Science Foundation Center for Biological Timing, University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA

Abstract:

OBJECT As spinal fusions become more common and more complex, so do the sequelae of these procedures, some of which remain poorly understood. The authors report on a series of patients who underwent removal of hardware after CT-proven solid fusion, confirmed by intraoperative findings. These patients later developed a spontaneous fracture of the fusion mass that was not associated with trauma. A series of such patients has not previously been described in the literature. METHODS An unfunded, retrospective review of the surgical logs of 3 fellowship-trained spine surgeons yielded 7 patients who suffered a fracture of a fusion mass after hardware removal. Adult patients from the West Virginia University Department of Orthopaedics who underwent hardware removal in the setting of adjacent-segment disease (ASD), and subsequently experienced fracture of the fusion mass through the uninstrumented segment, were studied. The medical records and radiological studies of these patients were examined for patient demographics and comorbidities, initial indication for surgery, total number of surgeries, timeline of fracture occurrence, risk factors for fracture, as well as sagittal imbalance. RESULTS All 7 patients underwent hardware removal in conjunction with an extension of fusion for ASD. All had CT-proven solid fusion of their previously fused segments, which was confirmed intraoperatively. All patients had previously undergone multiple operations for a variety of indications, 4 patients were smokers, and 3 patients had osteoporosis. Spontaneous fracture of the fusion mass occurred in all patients and was not due to trauma. These fractures occurred 4 months to 4 years after hardware removal. All patients had significant sagittal imbalance of 13–15 cm. The fracture level was L-5 in 6 of the 7 patients, which was the first uninstrumented level caudal to the newly placed hardware in all 6 of these patients. Six patients underwent surgery due to this fracture. CONCLUSIONS The authors present a case series of 7 patients who underwent surgery for ASD after a remote fusion. These patients later developed a fracture of the fusion mass after hardware removal from their previously successfully fused segment. All patients had a high sagittal imbalance and had previously undergone multiple spinal operations. The development of a spontaneous fracture of the fusion mass may be related to sagittal imbalance. Consideration should be given to reimplanting hardware for these patients, even across good fusions, to prevent spontaneous fracture of these areas if the sagittal imbalance is not corrected.

Abstract:

Background: Case management (CM) and community health workers (CHWs) are two evidence-based health management strategies that can help reduce health risks, reduce readmission rates, and improve patient-provider relationships, all of which may be suboptimal in adults with sickle cell disease (SCD). In Fiscal Year (FY) 2016, the actual average vs. expected average length of stay (ALOS) among SCD adults at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center (VCU), an urban academic medical center, was 6.7 days vs 4.2 days. The 30-day readmission rate was 33.7%. We have previously presented results of a year-long pilot CM and CHW intervention for five of VCU's highest adult SCD utilizers, measured by calendar year (CY) 2015 VCU charges (Sop, et al., Blood 2017). Comparing CYs 2015 and 2016, there were numeric improvements in inpatient discharges, 30-day readmissions, 3-Day Emergency Department (ED) returns, ED discharges, outpatient visits, inpatient days, and total VCU charges. Herein, we show results of an extension of the pilot to evaluate responsivity to change over time: whether these improvements were lost among these same patients in the subsequent year (CY 2017) with diminished CM due to loss of funding, and whether they recurred in CY 2018, when CM was more robust as a result of new, more stable funding. Methods: Using the VCU charge and utilization database, we compared the above utilization variables for the five highest CY 2015 utilizers in CYs 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015. The five original patients included 2 males and 3 females aged between 25-31 years old. One of the females passed away in 2016. Results: There was a trend toward numerically lower utilization during the two CM and CHW years (2016 and 2018), compared to the two diminished CM years (2015 and 2017). Inpatient discharges, inpatient days, and total charges see-sawed according to the intensity of intervention, going down during the year of the initial intervention, rising during the year after intervention, and going down again with resumption of intervention. However, there were notable exceptions: 30-day re-admissions were the lowest in 2017 a diminished intervention year; 3-day ED returns were flat throughout; ED discharges declined throughout, and; outpatient visits rose throughout. Conclusions: These pilot results must be interpreted with caution, since the sample was very small, and interventions were not standardized or randomized, so that secondary trends could be excluded. We found that, after diminution in 2017 of an initial CM and CHW intervention in 2016, several of the initial 2015-to-2016 improvements in academic medical center utilization for five high-utilizing adult SCD patients deteriorated. Subsequently, these improvements recurred when CM and CHWs were reapplied in 2018. We also found that other utilization improvements were sustained despite diminution or resumption of the intervention. This pilot result lays the groundwork for larger, more rigorous CM and CHW Table Disclosures Smith: Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria. Lipato:Novartis: Honoraria.

Abstract:

An Overview of the Role of Traditional Institutions in Nigeria Mustapha Alhaji Ali Department of Political Science and Administration. Yobe State University, Damaturu. Nigeria Fatima Ahmed Department of Political Science University of Maiduguri Nigeria *Corrosponding author’s Email: mustaphaalhajiali2@gmail.com Mustapha Alhaji Ali, born in Yobe state Nigeria, a staff of Yobe State University. Currently pursuing Ph.D. Political Science in Universiti Utara Malaysia is the based eminent Management University. The University in the green forest. Fatima Ahmed was born in Borno state Nigeria, working with the University of Maiduguri. Presently pursuing Ph.D. Political Development in the University the famous university in the North-Eastern region. Peer-review under responsibility of 3rd Asia International Multidisciplanry Conference 2019 editorial board (http://www.utm.my/asia/our-team/) © 2019 Published by Readers Insight Publisher, lat 306 Savoy Residencia, Block 3 F11/1,44000 Islamabad. Pakistan, info@readersinsight.net This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Research Highlights The British officials in Nigeria framed and imposed rules and laws through the traditional rulers who only served as mediators between the people and the British officials. Though, the cultures and traditions of the Nigerian citizens were cherished and reserved by the British government in order to accept and welcome them by the citizens of the country. However, this system worked out well because of the support of the traditional rulers who claimed that since their cultures and traditions were not interfered with, they have no problem with the British authorities (Teslim, 2019). Before traditional rulers in everywhere in the world are attached with some important functions among which are contributing to development administration, linkage or "brokering" between grassroots and capital, extension of national identity through the conferral of traditional titles, low-level conflict resolution and judicial gate-keeping, ombudsmanship and institutional safety- valve for overloaded and sub-apportioned bureaucracies. In addition to the above roles, traditional rulers are meant to create educated chieftaincies meaningfully improves the success of traditional rulers (Miles, 1993). Furthermore, traditional rulers serve as another institute of conflict resolution in any nation where the state legal system is weakening to fully provide the judicial requirements of the country (Zeleke, 2011). A study by Isaac (2018) disclosed that in the olden days, traditional institutions are the administrative organizations in Nigeria. These establishments are entrenched in the history, cultures, and the traditions of several ethnic groups and cultural background. He further explained that traditional institutions plays an important role in the managerial process before, during, and after colonial rules, these institutions have contributed to the history of the nation. The role of traditional organizations was important and highly respected during these periods. Research Objectives The paper examined the roles of traditional institutions toward steady democracy To discover how efficient are these institutions in ensuring steady democracy Significance of the study This study is of great importance to the academician because it would add to the body of existing knowledge, by guiding and assisting students conducting research in a similar field of study. However, this research work is very significant because it would help the traditional institution in understanding their weakness and how to improve where necessary.This study helps in identifying the gap in the literature and it as well assists in filing the existing gap in the literature Methodology This paper is qualitative in nature because it is based on an organized review of related literature and a subtle examination of secondary data, in this case, data were established from various sources such as magazines, published and unpublished articles, books, journals, reports archives and newspaper articles (Braun & Clarke, 2013; Creswell, 2009). Research Design Under the research design the researcher adopted case study approach this is because it provides the researcher with an in-depth understanding of a phenomenon under inquiry, or it helps in providing an in-depth thoughtful of cases (Creswell, 2013; Othman, 2018). Theoretical Framework There are many theories that can explain these study, but for the purpose of this paper the researcher used two theories, these are dependency and servant leadership theory, and reason for using these theories is based on their applicability and relationship with the topic under examination, these theories dwelled on abilities of leader and leadership independence in all the society. The postulations of these theories are that traditional rulers should be an independent body, truthful, honest, loyal, responsible, forecast, sensible and above all dedication to administrative responsibilities (White and Clark, 1990; Stone, & Patterson, 2005). Findings Traditional rulers play an important role in the society by advising the elected leaders in different areas, these include; economic policy, security issues, equal sharing of goods and services, recommending aspirants for elections or appointment to serve the community, demand for good governance and general wellbeing of the people among others. Study by Lund (2006) and Osifo (2017) disclosed that before traditional institutions use religion power to settle disputes among the citizens as well as married couples in the society, it also uses religious sanctions in resolving issues related to land disputes among the people in their respective societies, and issues like robbery, and disputes between neighbors in the societies. Recommendations The paper recommended that traditional rulers should be given full independence and should be well connected into Nigeria democratic process, this would encourage them to contribute in no small measure to the social and economic development. The study further recommended that democratization of the states along traditional organization would help in enhancing economic development that would enhance the living standard of the citizens Conclusion The study concluded that traditional institutions play important roles in the olden day. By settling disputes among the citizens. They in addition help in maintaining peace and order among the general populace. References a Stone, A. G., & Patterson, K. (2005). The history of leadership focus.Servant leadership research roundtable proceedings.School of Leadership Studies, Regent University, Virginia Beach, US. Teslim, O. O. (2019). Indirect Rule in Nigeria. Victor O. (2017). 7 Roles of Traditional Rulers in Achieving Stable Democracy in Nigeria. Information Guide in Nigeria. White, L.G. & Clark, R. P. (1990). Political Analysis: Technique and Practice. California: Brooks/Cole Publishing Company. Yemisi O. I. (2018). Role of Traditional Institution in Nigeria Democratic Space: Contending Perspectives, Issues, and Potentials. Zaleha O. (2018). Important things about Qualitative Research. Zeleke, M. (2011). Ye Shakoch Chilot (the court of the sheikhs): A traditional institution of conflict resolution in Oromiya zone of Amhara regional state, Ethiopia. African Journal on Conflict Resolution, 10(1), 63–84.

Abstract:

Abstract Background Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a debilitating mental illness characterized by a highly complex, heterogeneous, non-mendelian genetic background. Recent progress in dissecting genetic architecture of SCZ has accelerated over the last decade due to new advanced technologies. Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) on extremely large samples of patients identified and replicated hundreds of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs), each exhibiting only a modest effect. The analysis of genomic Copy Number Variations (CNVs) clarified the role of rare structural variants conferring significant risk by disrupting multiple genes involved in neurodevelopmental pathways, and linked to SCZ. In this scenario, the aim of our study is to carry out a genetic characterization of a cohort of patients affected by SCZ, in order to assess the risk of recurrence, to elucidate putative pathogenetic mechanisms and, whenever possible, to conceive tailored interventions and therapies. Methods 34 patients (8 women and 26 men) affected by SCZ and admitted to Day Hospital at Psychiatric Division for Treatment Resistant Psychosis of the University of Naples Federico II were recruited, and underwent: i) psychopathological evaluation and assessment of clinical response to antipsychotics; ii) genetic counseling; iii) further diagnostic investigation by using Comparative Genomic Hybridization (CGH) + Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) microarray with 2x400k Agilent’s platform “GenetiSure” for detecting unbalanced chromosomal abnormalities and regions of hom*ozygosity (ROHs). Results Structural pathogenetic rearrangements resulted in 9 (27%) patients. Those identified were the following: 15q13.3 deletion, 16p13.11 duplication, 22q11.22 deletion (TOP3B), 22q11.22 (PRODH, DGCR5, DGCR6), RBFOX1 deletion, TCF4 deletion, derivative X chromosome (X;Y translocation). Potentially pathogenic rearrangements, involving genes associated with psychiatric disorders or implicated in neurodevelopment, resulted in 15 patients (44%). No relevant CNVs were detected in 10 patients (29%), although they showed the presence of ROHs that may contain susceptibility loci, since many neurodevelopmental genes map onto or near these specific regions. Certain of these rearrangements occur in many patients, and certain patients showed likewise multiple rearrangements. Discussion The analysis of CNVs and SNPs allowed us to characterize the genetic disease structure in the whole cohort of patients and helped to refine the diagnosis in a few cases, thereby ascertaining an underlying specific genetic condition. A further extension of the study, in terms of sample size and more accurate investigations (i.e genetic mapping of ROHs) is underway. According to literature, rare risk-associated CNVs account for 2% of SCZ cases, but their higher prevalence (27%) in our sample may be influenced by a larger percentage of Treatment Resistant and more severely ill patients (since they were recruited in a highly specialized Unit for Treatment Resistant Psychosis). Therefore, our future purpose is to demonstrate a robust genetic modulation of Treatment Resistant endophenotypes of SCZ. Moreover, we believe that the role of genetic counseling in psychiatric services should be emphasized, and that genetic testing in this field should not be restricted to suspected childhood neuropsychiatric disorders. According to the neurodevelopmental hypothesis of SCZ, that suggests a brain development disruption in early life (due to genetic and early environmental factors), prompting to a subsequent later emergence of the disease in adulthood, even chronic complex adult mental illness, such as SCZ, deserves detailed investigations and a more exhaustive genetic evaluation.

Abstract:

Zwart AD, Urban RJ, Odell WD, Veldhuis JD. Contrasts in the gonadotropin-releasing hormone dose–response relationships for luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone and α-subunit release in young versus older men: appraisal with high-specificity immunoradiometric assay and deconvolution analysis. Eur J Endocrinol 1996:135:399–406. ISSN 0804–4643 The secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is regulated by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). As men age, mean serum concentrations of immunoreactive gonadotropic hormones tend to increase, while serum testosterone concentrations tend to decline. To evaluate age-related changes in gonadotroph cell function, we have assessed the dose-dependent secretory responses of immunoreactive LH, FSH and α-subunit to saline versus five doses of GnRH in older and young men. Ten older men, mean age 66 years (range 61–78), and nine young men, mean age 26 years (range 22–30), received iv bolus injections of GnRH (range 10–100 μg) in randomized order every 2 h. except that the 100-μg dose was always given last. Blood samples for immunoradiometric assays of serum LH, FSH and α-subunit concentrations were obtained every 10 min for a total of 12 h, which included a 2-h preinjection baseline. Deconvolution analysis was performed to estimate gonadotropin and α-subunit secretory burst mass, amplitude and duration, as well as endogenous LH, FSH and α-subunit half-lives. The mean (± sem) baseline 2-h serum FSH (IU/l) concentration was higher in older than younger men (5.9 ± 0.8 vs 3.8 ± 0.5, p < 0.05). The mean 2-h serum LH concentrations after GnRH were significantly higher than corresponding values in young men at GnRH doses of 25, 50 and 75 μg, and in the case of FSH at GnRH doses of 10 and 25 μg. Non-linear curve-fitting of these dose–response relationships revealed that the calculated maximal mean 2-h serum LH concentration response (IU/l) was higher in older than young men following GnRH stimulation: 15.4 (13.5–16.2) vs 10.8 (8.7–12.1) (95% confidence interval). The maximal mean 2-h serum FSH concentration response (IU/l) was also significantly higher in older men: 11.9 (10.2–13.1) versus 8.6 (7.2–9.6). Maximal α-subunit responses (μg/l) were similarly increased in the older cohort: 1.16 (0.99–1.25) vs 0.83 (0.71–0.91). The incremental LH (p < 0.05) and FSH (p < 0.01) secretory burst mass from 10 to 25 μg GnRH was significantly greater in older than younger men. The LH and FSH half-lives and second component α-subunit half-lives were similar in older and young men. In addition, secretory burst durations were invariant of age. In contrast, by non-linear curve-fitting, the calculated mass of LH secreted was higher in older men at 13.5 (11.8–15) vs 10.6 (9.2–11.7) IU/l of distribution volume (p < 0.05) for the maximal absolute mass and 11.3 (9.5–12.7) vs 7.4 (6.0–8.4) IU/l (p < 0.05) for the maximal incremental mass of LH secreted after GnRH. The estimated maximal mass of FSH secreted after GnRH also was higher in older men: 4.6 (3.4–5.5) vs 3.2 (2.9–3.4) IU/l (p < 0.01). Finally, calculated maximal GnRH-stimulated α-subunit secretory burst mass was statistically greater in older individuals: 2.3 (1.8–2.5) vs 1.6 (1.4–1.8) μg/l. In contrast, half-maximally effective GnRH doses were not different in the two age groups. We conclude that older men show significantly increased maximal and incremental gonadotropin release due to amplified secretory burst mass in response to escalating doses of GnRH with no evident differences in LH, FSH, or α-subunit half-lives or secretory burst durations. Increased gonadotroph responsiveness may be due to diminished gonadal hormone negative feedback or primary alterations in the hypothalamo-pituitary unit with aging. Johannes D Veldhuis, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Box 202, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA

Abstract:

Abstract Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is a premalignant disorder characterized by the asymptomatic presence of a monoclonal protein. It is defined by an M protein < 3 gm/dl, less than 10% clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow, and the absence of anemia, hypercalcemia, renal insufficiency and bone lesions. In 2010 the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) advocated for MGUS patients to be stratified into low risk disease, which carries a 5% risk of progression to multiple myeloma at 20 years, and high risk disease, which represents a 20% risk at 20 years. This stratification model categorizes patients as low risk if they have an IgG paraprotein with an M-component < 1.5 g/dl and a normal free light chain (FLC) ratio. As such, it is suggested that the initial workup be comprised of a serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP), an immunofixation (IFE), and a FLC ratio. A bone marrow biopsy (BM) and bone survey should only be performed if anemia, hypercalcemia or an elevated creatinine of unclear etiology is noted. If these studies place a patient into the low risk, it is suggested the patient follow up at 6-months with only an SPEP. If the SPEP is stable, the next follow-up is recommended to occur at 2 to 3 year intervals unless symptoms arise suggestive of a plasma cell dyscrasia. The risk stratification of MGUS patients was validated in 2013 by Turesson et al. in a Swedish cohort (Blood, 2014; 123:338-345). Nevertheless, the risk model is not universally accepted and unnecessary office visits along with laboratory studies are performed on low risk patients. The purpose of this study was to perform an internal retrospective review of our patients diagnosed with low risk MGUS, evaluating excess medical costs incurred when patients were not risk stratified by the IMWG recommendations. Methods: MGUS patients seen in the Hematology Oncology Division of Drexel University between 2014 and 2016 were retrospectively categorized into high and low risk based on the IMWG criteria. Those determined to be low risk were evaluated over two years for extra costs incurred outside the IMWG recommendations. Extra cost was tallied based on initial workup and surveillance studies performed up to two years from diagnosis. Costs per test and follow up visits were based on our office appointment pricing and BM biopsy charges. Laboratory costs were obtained based on pricing from ACCU reference lab. Cost per test (varies by lab/provider) SPEP $67 UPEP $130 Serum IFE $200 Urine IFE $72 IgA $27 IgG $27 IgM $27 K/L ratio $120 B2 microglobulin $42 Office Visit $40 - $100 Bone Survey $500 - $1200 BM biopsy $500- $1000 Results: Sixty patients seen between 2014 and 2016 met the criteria for MGUS. Twenty-eight patients were determined to have low risk disease. Of the 28 patients, five were diagnosed prior to 2010 and were excluded. In the remaining 23 patients, four followed up at exactly six months from diagnosis and only one had an SPEP. The most common test ordered was quantitative immunoglobulins (QI) aside from a CBC and CMP. The total number of excess office visits was 49. Three patients had unnecessary BM biopsies (total cost $1,000 - $2,000), and 11 had unnecessary bone surveys (Total $5,500 - $13,200). The total cost of unnecessary lab tests within 2 years was $6,024 and the total cost of unnecessary office visits within 2 years was $1960 - $4900. Thus, the average excess spent per patient was $630 - $1135, for a total excess cost for the 23 patients of $14,484 - $26,124. Conclusion: This internal review highlights the excess medical costs incurred when patients are not risk stratified by the IMWG recommendations. Ideally, no further health care dollars should be spent for low risk MGUS patients who have a stable SPEP at the 6-month visit until the 2 or 3 year follow up visit. The actual excess amount spent in our office in 2 years for these patients was $14,484 - $26,124 beyond the cost of the standard of care recommended by the IMWG guidelines. Additionally, these values did not include excess basic labs such as a CBC or CMP and it did not include extension of our investigation out to three years which would result in further unnecessary costs. One patient was noted to accumulate excess cost due to his co-morbid condition of prostate cancer, which led to increased surveillance for his low risk MGUS. The risk stratification model allows physicians to offer patients a better understanding of their disease, decrease the patient's burden and reduce the cost on healthcare. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Abstract:

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of using mind mapping method in improving early childhood educator’s skill in mastering the child development assessment. This research is quasi-experimental using a pre-test and post-test design. The population was the entire classes of early childhood education training held by LPK Yayasan Indonesia Mendidik Jaka Sampurna at Cileungsi, Bogor. The participants were 45 early childhood educators. This study used three research methods which are implemented from learning methods in child development assessment was as pre-test and post-test. Data were collected by using two instruments to measure early childhood educators for child development assessment. The data were analysed by using t-test to measures the differences data in pre-test and post-test. The results showed that the use of mind mapping methods can help early childhood educators to improve their mastery of the development assessment concept which averages 51.9 percent. It showed significant results with ttest value is 18,266 (N = 10, α = 0,0). This capacity building is reinforced by various qualitative findings which arise from early childhood educators’ awareness to change the old learning style into learning by mind mapping method as a learning method that follows how the brain works. This study also found that early childhood educators as adults who are in the stage of formal thinking have shown an understanding that mind mapping method are appropriate, fast, easy and practical in mastering various development assessment concepts. Early childhood educators believe that they can use the method for mastering other material concepts. Keywords: Assessment, Brain-based teaching, Mind mapping References Anthony, J. N. (2001). Educational Assesment of Student. New Jersey: Merril Prentice Hall. Armstrong, T. (2009). Multiples Intelligences in the Classroom. Virginia: SCD. Bagnato, S. J. (2007). Authentic Assessment for Early Childhood Intervention. New York: The Guilford Press. Bellman, M., & Byrne, O. (2013). Developmental assessment of children, (January), 4–9. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.e8687 Blessing, O. O., & Olufunke, B. T. (2015). Comparative Effect of Mastery Learning and Mind Mapping Approaches in Improving Secondary School Students’ Learning Outcomes in Physics. Science Journal of Education, 3(4), 78–84. Bowman, B. T., Donovan, M. S., & Burns, M. S. (2001). Eager to Learn. Eager to Learn. Washington DC: NAtional Academy Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/9745 Bricker, D., & Squires, J. (1999). Ages and stages questionnaires: A parent completed, child-monitoring system (2nd editio). Baltimore, MD: Brookes Publishing. Buzan, T. & Buzan, B. (1996). The mind map book: How to use radiant thinking to maximize your brain’s untapped potential. New York: Plume. Buzan, T. (1974). Use Your Head. Innovative Learning and Thinking Techniques to Fulfil Your Mental Potential. BBC books. Choo, Y. Y., Yeleswarapu, S. P., How, C. H., & Agarwal, P. (2019). Developmental assessment: practice tips for primary care physicians. Singapore Medical Journal, 60(2), 57–62. https://doi.org/10.11622/smedj.2019016 DIKMAS, D. (2015). Pedoman Penilaian Hasil Pembelajaran. Jakarta, Indonesia. Feeney, S. D. C., & Moravcik, E. (2006). Who Am I in The Live Of Children. New Jersey: Pearson Merill Prentice Hall. Gall, M. D., Gall, J. P., & Borg, W. R. (2007). Educational Research: An Introduction (4th ed.). New York: Longman Inc. Goel, P. S., & N. Singh. (1998). Creativity and innovation in durable product development. Computers & Industrial Engineering, 35(1–2), 5–8. https://doi.org/http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S0360- 8352(98)00006-0 Hartati, S. (2012). Tingkat Pengetahuan Guru TK tentang Asesmen Perkembangan Anak Usia Dini di TK Kelurahan Rawamangun, DKI Jakarta. Jakarta. Indonesia, D. P. dan K. Menteri Pendidikan dan Kebudayaan, Pub. L. No. No. 146 (2014). Indonesia. Jensen, E. (2008). Brain-Based Learning. Pembelajaran Berbasis Kemampuan Otak. Yogyakarta: Pustaka Pelajar. Jones, B. D., Ruff, C., Tech, V., Snyder, J. D., Tech, V., Petrich, B., … Koonce, C. (2012). The Effects of Mind Mapping Activities on Students ’ Motivation. International Journal for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, 6(1). Kostelnik, M. J., Soderman, A. K., & Whiren, A. P. (2007). Developmentally Approriate Curriculum, Best Practice In Early Childhood Education. New Jersey: Pearson Education Inc. Lienhard, D. A. (n.d.). Roger Sperry ? s Split Brain Experiments ( 1959 ? 1968 ). The Embryo Project Encyclopedia. Meisels, S. J. (2001). Fusing assessment and intervention: Changing parents’ and providers’ views of young children. ZERO TO THREE, 4–10. NAEYC. (2003). Early Childhood Curriculum, Assessment, and Program Evaluation. Riswanto, & Putra, P. P. (2012). The Use of Mind Mapping Strategy in the Teaching of Writing at SMAN 3 Bengkulu , Indonesia. International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, 2(21), 60–68. Sandy, M. G. (1992). Pice of Mind. Jakarta: Gramedia Pustaka Utama. Slentz, K. L. (2008). A Guide to Assessment in Early Childhood. Washington: Washington State. Suyadi, S. (2017). Perencanaan dan Asesmen Perkembangan Pada Anak Usia Dini. Golden Age: Jurnal Ilmiah Tumbuh Kembang Anak Usia Dini, 1(1), 65–74. Retrieved from http://ejournal.uin-suka.ac.id/tarbiyah/index.php/goldenage/article/view/1251 Thomas, H. S. (2007). Today’s topics on creativity engineering system division. Massachusetts. Thornton, S. (2008). Understanding Human Development. New York: Palgrave, Macmillan. Windura, S. (2013). Mind Map Langkah Demi Langkah. Jakarta: Elex Media Computindo. Wortham, S. C. (2005). Assesment in Early Childhood Education. NewJersey: Pearson. Wycoff, J. (1991). Mindmapping: Your Personal Guide to Exploring Creativity and Problem-Solving. Berkley; Reissue edition. Yunus, M. M., & Chien, C. H. (2016). The Use of Mind Mapping Strategy in Malaysian University English Test (MUET) Writing. Creative Education, 76, 619–662.

Abstract:

Virginia Cooperative extension is a part of US cooperative extension system operated through Virginia State University and Virginia tech with the support of federal, state and local governments. The structure and function of the Virginia extension has changed to serve the people in changing time, need and space. Unlike other countries, Virginia cooperative extension system is very unique as it provides complete package of extension services to the society guided by the Federal Government of USA. Through its multi-dimensional, multi-structured, and multi-leadership approach, it serves the society in many innovative ways. It provides almost all kinds of advisory services, training, demonstration and support with respect to crop and animal husbandry, industry, weather, safety and human health. In this manuscript, we made an attempt to bring these services before the world. It is based on a review of literature from books, papers, Virginia Cooperative Extension website, and personal discussions and observations. The paper reveals that Virginia tech is an important agent of Virginia extension system with a vast network to educate and train people of the society for sustainability of environment, agriculture and human health that have demonstrative utility for other countries of the world.

Abstract:

In the United States, single smokeless tobacco use continues to increase in conjunction with the dual use of smokeless tobacco and other nicotine products. Problematically, much of the tobacco prevention literature and funding inundates tobacco users with smoking tobacco information while neglecting to provide them any information about smokeless tobacco. Meanwhile, American tobacco companies continually market new and dissolvable tobacco products targeted at non-smokers. New data suggests that smokeless tobacco use is, also, increasing in West Virginia and, in order to address this increased use, the West Virginia Extension Service recently partnered with the Division of Tobacco Prevention in the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources to develop a comprehensive spit tobacco curriculum for West Virginia students between third and sixth grade. This article details the development and assessment of the spit tobacco prevention curriculum and the resulting report from the initial pilot of the program. The curriculum was piloted across six counties with the participation of schools, after-school programs and 4-H clubs. After implementation, survey results demonstrate that youth have increased awareness of the health effects of smokeless tobacco. Throughout the article, we explore West Virginia's Cooperative Extension Service's response to this emerging public health issue and release a call to action for the National Cooperative Extension Services to join us in spit tobacco prevention.

Abstract:

The article deals with the ongoing strategic partnership between the History of Medicine Division at the National Library of Medicine and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) to allow researchers, educators, and students access to new forms of cooperative work through a growing network of resources.

Abstract:

John Wills Lloyd is Professor Emeritus at the University of Virginia and co-editor of Exceptional Children. He earned his PhD from the University of Oregon and spent most of his career at the University of Virginia. Dr. Lloyd has been an integral part of many professional organizations, including the Council for Exceptional Children’s Division for Learning Disabilities, where he served as president and later as the executive director, and the Division for Research. Dr. Lloyd’s work has focused on the identification of effective instructional practices, best-practice in single-case design research methodology, and facilitating a deeper understanding of learning disabilities. He has produced numerous scholarly articles, foundational textbooks, and web-based materials that continue to inform readers about effective practice in special education.

Abstract:

This article presents a case study of how the University of Saskatchewan Extension Division developed an action plan to strengthen its research capacity. Its Action Plan outlines 20 actions, organized into five strategic categories: cultivating a productive research climate; promoting faculty development and faculty renewal; engaging in graduate-level teaching and learning; developing research infrastructure and supportive administrative processes; and encouraging and celebrating research excellence. The body of the article contains an abridged version of the Action Plan, with details such as timelines and lines of responsibility removed. Although written for the University of Saskatchewan Extension Division, this plan is pertinent to many university continuing education units across Canada.

Abstract:

There is an ongoing need for community leadership development programs particularly in rural communities. Cooperative Extension leadership programs have focused on building leadership skills to enhance the capacity of communities to address the challenges of the postmodern era and the demands of a globalized world. To justify the resources needed to meet the leadership development needs, extension must demonstrate the effectiveness of leadership development programs. The Leadership Practices Inventory (LPI) developed by researchers at North Carolina A&T State University in collaboration with Virginia Polytechnic Institute State University will provide extension practitioners with a valid and reliable instrument to assess the performance of leadership development programs.