bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Network among Institutions: The Case of TORINO Model
Authors: Campra Maura , Secinaro Silvana , Brescia Valerio
Published: March 2019

The network is a model that may be able to respond to public needs by overcoming some limitations of other approaches. In literature, a generalizable model is often absent and not applicable to more than one productive sector. The case study uses the "Torino Model" to highlight the most frequent features and measurable elements of the network through a bottom-up coding approach by ATLAS software. The case is analyzed through interviews, documents analysis and observation of the functioning of the network. Sustainability, management and the main network outcomes are the elements that the study examines the case study. The analysis responds to the gap identified in the literature concerning the application to a system composed of institutions. The essential elements linked to know-how, the exchange of training and information and therefore the growth of intangible value constitute the essential basis for the establishment of a successful network, and this is also highlighted by the case study. The case study highlights how the network between institutions reduces costs by eliminating the duplication of services offered and increasing effectiveness and efficiency through increasing other factors such as the professional ability to respond to needs by immediately putting institutions and professionals in communication. The model confirms the ability to overcome the gap related to the network between institutions and between public and private, increasing the well-being of the local system.
The Impact of Islamic Banks on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP): An Empirical Study in Dubai
Authors: Atallah Aldalaien Baaeth
Published: March 2019

The present study aimed to explore the impact of Islamic banks on the gross domestic product (GDP) in Dubai. A descriptive analytical approach was adopted. In order to meet the study’s goals, the researcher reviewed the relevant theoretical literature and previous studies. Questionnaire forms were distributed to the selected sample. The sample consists from 100 employees. They were selected from the credit facilities department of two Islamic banks located in Dubai. It was found that Islamic banks and finance can significantly raise the gross domestic product (GDP). It was found that the Islamic banks can significantly raise the gross domestic product (GDP) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in general and Dubai in particular. The researcher recommends developing and innovating new funding, banking and investment products in the aim of meeting the demands of customers. These products mustn’t violate the provisions of Sharia (Islamic law). In addition, the researcher recommends using the modern technologies and skills at banks. That shall participate in achieving development.
Data Quality Methods and Applications in Health Care System: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Pietro Biancone Paolo , Secinaro Silvana , Brescia Valerio , Calandra Davide
Published: March 2019

The use of data cataloging tools allows keeping different records of both qualitative and quantitative information. However, the large amount of data is not always synonymous with quality, in the medical field this argument becomes even more critical if it is considered the consequences that the lack of a systematic and rigorous process can have for patients. The analysis was conducted through a systematic review includes several general cases and practical methodologies of data quality analysis in the health context. The search for results was made using the keywords "data quality" and "health." The study considers publications made from 2014 to 2018, topic related to Business, Management and Accounting, exclusively in the case of the Tutto platform peer-review journals were chosen, English language of publication. Efficient use of information requires databases that can collect and order health information. However, this is the first step, data quality attempts to go further through the creation of qualitative or statistical control processes and indicators able to ascertain the lack of data or identify potential anomalies. The conducted analysis sets the stage for future quality implementation in the clinical pathway and patient management.
Effect of Workforce Diversity on Job Performance of Hotels Working in Jordan
Authors: Mohammad Ayat Mohammad Esam Saed
Published: March 2019

Implementing workplace diversity has become a major focus in many Human Resource departments. Diversity workforce can contribute to the organization’s success by enabling access to a changing marketplace via the organization’s multicultural employees. This study aimed to examine the impact of workforce diversity on the job performance in hotels operating in Jordan. Four dimensions of workplace diversity were included in the study: Gender, Age, Nationality, and Education background, on the other hand, job performance was measured by two dimensions: task performance and contextual performance. The study population consists of all managers working at different managerial levels in hotels in Jordan; samples of 389 managers were selected to represent the study population. Data were collected using a questionnaire developed on the strength of previous studies. Both IMB SPSS 19.0 and AMOS 23.0 were run to examine and test measures, data and hypotheses.

The results of the study supported the hypotheses that workforce diversity dimensions; Gender, age, nationality and educational background have a positive impact on job performance. Based on the study results the researchers recommend managers and decision makers of hotels in Jordan need to create better diversity management action plans in order to better accommodate the changing business environment.
The Level of Optimism and Pessimism and its Relationship to the Quality of Life in Patients with Renal Failure in the Government and Private Hospitals in Irbid
Authors: Al Jarrah Fatima N. , Hamdan Falastine R. , Hamdan Munther R. , Fraihat Alaa , A. Alazzam Abed Alnaser
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study was to detect the level of optimism and pessimism and its relation to the quality of life in patients with renal failure in the government and private hospitals in Irbid in light of the variables: gender, age, duration of disease and educational level of patients, the sample of the study consisted of (93) patients with kidney failure, who were randomly selected from the study population. The researchers used optimism and pessimism scale and the quality of life scales, their validity and reliability were verified. Results of the study showed that the means for optimism scale ranged between (3.602-3.075) with a medium degree, and the means for pessimism scale ranged between (4.086-3.118) with a high and medium degree, while the means for quality of life scale ranged between (4.054-2.957) with a high and medium degree. Results also showed the existence of a correlation between the level of optimism and the level of quality of life and this relationship is a moderate relationship, and a lack of correlation between level of optimism and level of pessimism and level of pessimism and quality of life. There are no statistically significant differences at the level of significance (0.05) in the patients' responses on the optimism, pessimism scales according to (gender, family income, medical insurance and origin).
Landslides stabilization - optimise solutions or maximize costs - case study
Authors: Bardel Tomasz
Published: March 2019

The stabilization of landslide is usually very costly, which is why optimal slope reinforcement should be based on exact geological investigations. The described case of a small landslide on the road in the Carpathians presents the process of documenting, stability analysis and design solutions for slope reinforcement. Depth of slip surface was the most important information for slope reinforcement first-design. Collapsed slope was subjected to re-analysis of stability, taking into account additional data already obtained during slope reinforcement. Stability modeling results indicate a different range and depth of the slip surface than those use for design, which had a major impact on the costs of stabilization.
Bioactivity of PLGA-gel-derived bioglass composites
Authors: Łączka Maria , Maślanka Ewelina , Pawlik Justyna , Dziadek Michał , Zagrajczuk Barbara , Cholewa-Kowalska Katarzyna
Published: March 2019

A series of PLGA (poly L-lactide-co-glycolide) based composites modified with gel-derived glasses in the form of foils were obtained by solvent casting procedure. As a modifier, glass particles with different chemical compositions from the CaO–SiO2, CaO–P2O5–SiO2, and Al2O3–SiO2 systems were used. All glasses were synthesized by the sol-gel process. Evaluation of bioactive properties of obtained composites was made on the basis of surface changes occurring during contact with simulated body fluid. The changes of Ca, P and Si ions concentration in SBF after incubation of composites were also measured. The result showed that all composites with bioglasses (CaO–SiO2, CaO–P2O5–SiO2) exhibit formation of calcium phosphates layer after SBF test, however, kinetics of Ca, Si ion release and P uptake from SBF was dependent on bioglass chemical composition. The higher solubility, as well as faster consumption of phosphorus from SBF, was observed for materials from CaO–SiO2 (T1/PLGA, S1/PLGA) compared to composites with respective bioglass particles from the CaO–P2O5–SiO2(T2/PLGA, S2/PLGA). Our results showed that rate of Si and Ca release from the gel-derived glasses and P uptake from SBF are dependent on both: the concentration of respective ions in the materials and the presence of phosphates in their structure. For materials modified with gel-derived glasses from Al2O3–SiO2 system no significant surface changes during contact with SBF were observed, and it seems that their behavior in physiological solution indicate that they are bio-inert materials.
State estimators and observers for continuous and discrete linear systems. Part 1. Differential asymptotic state estimators
Authors: Byrski Jędrzej , Byrski Witold
Published: March 2019

In the paper an overview of state estimators and state observers used in linear systems, will be presented. The state estimators and observers can be used in many applications like the state reconstruction for the control purposes or for the diagnosis and fault detection in technical processes or for the virtual measurements of inaccessible variables of the system as well as for the best filtration of the differential equation solution. As the standard most commonly the Kalman filter and Luenberger type observers are used. Although the Kalman filter guarantees optimal filtering quality of the state, reconstructed from the noisy measurements, both Kalman filter and the Luenberger observer guarantee only asymptotic quality of the real state changes and tracking, basing on the current measurements of the system output and input signals. Unfortunately, the value of the estimation error at any moment of time cannot be calculated. The discussion on differences between continuous and two types of discrete Kalman Filter will be presented. This paper is plan to be the introduction to presentation of the another type of the state observers which have the structure given by the integral operators. Based on measurements of the system output and input signals on some predefined finite time interval, they can reconstruct, after this interval, the observed state exactly.
Selected issues of multi-objective WLAN planning
Authors: Pieprzycki Adam , Ludwin Wiesław
Published: March 2019

The aim of the article is to apply a multicriteria approach to MOO (Multi Objective Optimization) planning for WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) using selected swarm optimization methods. For this purpose, in the process of searching for the extremum of two criterion functions, which are an optimization index, two swarm algorithms were used: MOCS (Multi Objective Cuckoo Search) and MOPSO (Multi Objective Particle Swarm Optimization). The results were compared with the single-criterion SOO (Single Objective Optimization) range-based network planning based on the regular distribution of TP (test point) using the CS Cuckoo Search algorithm.
DETERMINANTS OF FINANCIAL PROFITABILITY OF FEEDINGSTUFFS PRODUCERS
Authors: Czerwińska-Kayzer Dorota , Florek Joanna
Published: March 2019

Return on equity is among the basic ratio of economic benefit for enterprise owners. It must be generated as a fundamental condition for the continuous operation and development of an enterprise, regardless of the type of business. The main purpose of this paper was to identify the strength and direction of impact of selected determinants behind financial profitability of animal feed producers. The analysis was based on a six-factor cause-and-effect model linking the determinants of financial profitability to three areas of business activity: the operating, financial and fiscal area. This study relied on the financial data between the years 2011–2016 of individual financial statements of animal feed producers. Based on the results of multiple regression analysis, no factors could be identified that consistently affect the return on equity in the period considered. However, the following can be concluded to be the main factors affecting the variation in return on equity of animal feed producers: the ratio of cash from operating activities to net sales; the return on capital employed; and the financing structure. As shown by this study, in order to improve profitability ratios and, thus, to provide more value to owners and increase the value of the company, managers of establishments producing animal feed should focus their efforts on improving cash management efficiency and asset turnover as well as managing sources of funding.
MACROALGAE MANAGEMENT IN COASTAL REGIONS IN THE ASPECT OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY
Authors: Dereszewska Alina , Cytawa Stanisław
Published: March 2019

The article discusses the problem of excessive growth of one-year filamentous algae, contributing to the disturbance of ecological balance in the Puck Bay. The aim of the study is to estimate the possibility of restoring this balance through the use of macroalgae as a co-substrate for biogas and fertilizer production in the regional biological wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). Effectiveness of biogas production from aquatic plants, including free-floating filamentous algae, was examined. Tests have shown that the biogas potential of seaweed constitutes the level of 162 m3/Mg of organic dry solid substances of algae. It was estimated that using the summer intense algal growth, removing 65,000 Mg of algae, 800,000 m3 of biogas can be obtained from the area covering the inner Puck Bay. After biogas conversion, 2,320 MWh of electricity and 2,100 MWh of heat energy could be produced. Harvesting free-floating algae enables the annual removal of 100-150 Mg of phosphorus and 200-400 Mg of nitrogen from Puck Bay and, thus, reduces the level of its eutrophication. Macroalgae management at a certain stage of growth also prevents the presence of algae on beaches and contributes to the improvement of fishing conditions and boosts the tourism value of the region.
PRODUCTION OF LIVE PIGS IN POLAND – CONDITIONS AND PROSPECTS
Authors: Ziętara Wojciech
Published: March 2019

The article presents the current situation of Polish farms oriented towards pig breeding, resulting from a drastic reduction in the pig population after 2007 which took place in farms holding up to 200 pigs. The assessment covered the production and economic activity of pig farms, by determining their efficiency and competitiveness against a background of similar farms from Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands and Spain. The results of analyses show that the major factor determining production efficiency and competitiveness of Polish pig farms was the production scale stemming from a very low level of breeding concentration in comparison with farms from countries analysed. In 2013, on average, on Polish farms, there were 41 pigs, while in Denmark, the Netherlands and Germany, there were 3096, 2285 and 587 pigs, respectively. Large Polish farms (economic size of EUR 100-500 thousand SO) were able to compete and very large farms were fully competitive. The major causes of a weak Polish pig production sector have been indicated and include a low level of concentration, no links between pig producers and commercial/meat processing plants as well as the existence of barriers preventing investment in livestock buildings adapted to a greater production scale.
Patient Is the New Black
Authors: Bartoszko Aleksandra
Published: March 2019

In this essay, I challenge the ways in which global drug policy initiatives call for more humane drug policy and decriminalization. Although these initiatives promote human dignity and agency, they also encourage a particular approach to drug use and addiction. Embracing patientism in their liberating narratives of ‘treatment, not punishment,’ these voices take for granted the advantages of their proposed approach. Drawing on my experiences with Norwegian OST, I illustrate patients’ engagement and resistance towards the politically hyped social categories and ask how we can understand this socio-political desire for a narrative transformation.
Material practices and experiences "kick back". A socio-material analysis of gendered educational choice
Authors: Løken Marianne , Øyslebø Sørensen Siri
Published: March 2019

The article examines gender and recruitment for mathematics and science through a close reading of four women’s stories about choosing a mathematics and science education, retrieved from a more comprehensive study of educational choice. Personal interest for the subject is an established understanding of what influence the educational choice. Strategies and campaigns for recruiting women for mathematics and science have thus been geared to awaken precisely women’s interest as women In this article, we move away from an understanding of gender as a background variable to explain "interest in mathematics and science", and instead show how educational choice can be understood as socio-material practices. In the interaction between human and material actors there is also bodily experiences, something which gives gender active significance (agency). Thus, the article contributes to an extended understanding of the components that are included in educational choice and how these components relate to one another, which in turn provides new opportunities for understanding how educational choices can beaffected through material experiences and practices.
Nærmiljø som læringsarena i undervisning for bærekraftig utvikling. En analyse av læreres erfaringer og refleksjoner
Local environment as learning arena for teaching sustainable development
Authors: Gabrielsen Anja , Korsager Majken
Published: March 2019

Despite an increased focus on education for sustainable development (ESD), many teachers still report insecurity in how to implement ESD in their practice. This study examined teachers’ reflections from using the local environment as a learning arena in ESD (6th-9th grade). Results from analysis of semi-structured interviews showed that the teachers experience challenges with the complexity of sustainable development, the ambiguities in the curriculum and time spent if the learning arena is some distance from school. However, the teachers strongly argue for using the local environment as a learning arena in ESD, and their arguments were mainly within four categories: 1) exemplification of various perspectives of sustainable development, 2) authentic and concrete learning, 3) opportunity for action, and 4) affective influences. The results from this study, emphasizing the teachers’ perspective, can contribute to a shift in focus from abstract education policy on what ESD should be, to a focus on contextualized practice.
Geografiska informationssystem som en integrerad del av lärarutbildningen och skolundervisningen
Geographic information systems as an integral part of the teacher and school education
Authors: Schubert Per , Johansson Maria
Published: March 2019

The Swedish school education in geography has developed slowly and still focuses on names of, for example, countries and capitals, rather than geographical concepts and processes. To implement the secondary and upper secondary school curricula, teachers need both broad and deep geographical knowledge. For example, teachers need knowledge of geographic information systems (GIS), which are computerised information systems for analysis and presentation of geographical data. This literature-based discussion article aims to analyse opportunities and difficulties with using GIS programs in the teacher and school education. In summary, the preconditions are good, with few technical barriers, for developing GIS-based teaching in the teacher and school education that promotes active, inquiry-based, cooperative, and problem-based learning. This would make the school education more problem-oriented and interdisciplinary so that it promotes pupils’ opportunities to achieve the competencies stipulated in the curricula. Such development requires that teacher educators and school teachers get the time and resources needed to develop technological pedagogical content knowledge. However, it is probably enough for educators and teachers to get started with simpler internet- and web-based GIS and then develop their knowledge at an appropriate pace.
The potential of palaeontology for science education
Authors: Estrup Eliza Jarl , Achiam Marianne
Published: March 2019

Science education frequently portrays science as a monolithic and experimental endeavour. Here, we argue that to counteract this simplistic conception of science, a reintroduction of the historically oriented sciences is in order. To this end, we analyse the discipline of palaeontology and its educational relevance. Using Kuhn’s disciplinary matrix, we deconstruct palaeontology into elements for educational purposes, and subsequently examine how these elements can be utilised to enrich contemporary science curricula. We conclude by discussing how including palaeontology in science education encourages diversity, pluralism, and ultimately, public interest in science.
Effects of Aerobic Versus Resistance Training on Serum Leptin and Insulin Resistance in Healthy Sedentary Men
Authors: Abedi Bahram , Sayyah Mansour , Ebrahimimonfared Marziyeh
Published: March 2019

Background: New pieces of evidence show that the leptin released from adipose tissue is associated with obesity; however, leptin response to different types of exercise programs in humans is unknown. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of aerobic versus resistance training on serum leptin and insulin resistance in sedentary men. Methods: Thirty male volunteers with a mean age of 23.2 ± 1.23 years, body mass index (BMI) 23.9 ± 0.95 kg.m-2, fat percent 18.28 ± 1.15, and waist-to-hip ratio 0.89 ± 0.02 were randomly assigned into three groups, including aerobic, resistance exercise, and control groups (n = 10). The resistance exercise program was performed for 60 minutes at 70% of one repetition maximum for 3 sets. Every set consisted of 10 repetitions per move (RPM) followed by a 30-second-rest interval between every station accompanied by a 2-minute-rest between every set. The aerobic exercise program consisted of running on a treadmill for 30 minutes at 60 to 70 percent of reserved heart rate (maximum heart rate-heart rate rest). Fasting blood samples were collected before and after 6 weeks after the termination of the exercise protocol in order to determine the plasma leptin level and insulin resistance. Results: The results of one-way ANOVA showed that body fat percentage and waist-to-hip ratio were significantly decreased in both experimental groups and maximum aerobic power and one repetition maximum of bench press plus leg press were significantly increased (P < 0.05). In addition, insulin resistance levels were significantly decreased in both exercises groups compared with the control group. However, the leptin level was significantly decreased in the aerobic exercise group compared with the other two groups (P < 0.05). Conclusions: According to these findings, both aerobic and resistance training without changes in body weight and body mass index appear to be a non-prescriptive therapeutic approach to lower the insulin levels and insulin resistance in sedentary men. However, aerobic versus resistance training may play a role in regulating systemic leptin.
EX-ISTO: O OLHAR NO CAMPO EXPANDIDO
Authors: Portas Danusa Depes
Published: March 2019

A crescente tendência nos estudos dos meios de comunicação pela dimensão transnacional do tráfico e a produção de imagens acompanham o deslocamento dela ao centro dos debates sobre o papel da representação nas culturas globais contemporâneas. Estas questões consubstanciam-se em problemas-chaves fundamentais: a hibridação dos campos disciplinares da literatura, fotografia, cinema, arte em um contexto internacional; a relação entre a imagem e o arquivo, com respeito à memória, à história, à justiça. No horizonte destes problemas, o trabalho objetiva distinguir o papel constitutivo da imagem do autor na dinâmica da imaginação teórica ocidental e as funções políticas dos agenciamentos memorialísticos de que se revela portador, valendo-se da obra de Cindy Sherman como intercessor.
OBJETOS PARADOXAIS NA HISTÓRIA DAS IDEIAS LINGUÍSTICAS: UMA PESQUISA SOBRE O ENSINO DE LÍNGUA PORTUGUESA NO BRASIL
Authors: Freitas Ronaldo Adriano de
Published: March 2019

Valendo-se da articulação entre a História das Ideias Linguísticas e a Análise do Discurso, o artigo apresenta resultados de uma pesquisa sobre os processos de significação que sustentam o ensino de Língua Portuguesa, centrada no gesto de se atribuir à Língua e ao Ensino o status de objetos paradoxais (PÊCHEUX, [1982] 2011; ZOPPI-FONTANA, 2005). No recorte apresentado, a noção de objetos paradoxais é desenvolvida a partir do funcionamento discursivo desses termos, explorando a contrariedade constitutiva de Língua, como fluidez e padrão; e de Ensino, como libertação e reprodução.
A LINGUAGEM COMO METÁFORA EM GRAMSCI E A RELAÇÃO COM BRÉAL: UMA ABORDAGEM A PARTIR DA HISTÓRIA DAS IDEIAS LINGUÍSTICAS
Authors: Nogueira Luciana , Fernandes Renato César Ferreira
Published: March 2019

O presente trabalho é o resultado de uma pesquisa em andamento e que está em sua fase inicial. Assim, procuramos trazer o debate de um elemento não explorado no Brasil a partir do pensamento de Antonio Gramsci, a saber: a relação entre a linguagem e a metáfora presente em Cadernos do Cárcere. Para isso, abordamos a questão da linguagem como uma concepção de mundo, segundo o autor italiano, levando em conta as condições sócio-históricas de produção de suas formulações.
Practical Cosmologies
Authors: Hoeppe Götz
Published: March 2019

For much of the 20thcentury, indigenous cosmologies, understood as the totalizing worldviews of delimited social groups, were one of ethnology’s central topics. In the last few decades, however, the concept of cosmology no longer sat well with many ethnologists’ wariness of identifying social wholes as analytic units and with accepting correspondences of social organization with orders of time, space, and color, among others. Recently, Allen Abramson and Martin Holbraad, in their 2014 bookFraming Cosmologies, called for a “second wind” of anthropologists’ attention to cosmologies, now including popular understandings of Western science. While endorsing this broadened attention to cosmology and the uses of analyst’s perspectives, I call for remaining attentive to the practical uses of cosmologies by the actors that ethnographers learn from. This entails attending to the social accountabilities and organizational contexts that constrain how people act. I seek to illustrate this by drawing on ethnographies of fishers in south India as well as of astrophysicists in Germany.
The effect of sewage sludge and BAF inoculant on plant condition and yield as well as biochemical and microbial activity of soil in willow (Salix viminalisL.) culture as an energy crop
Authors: Panasiewicz Katarzyna , Niewiadomska Alicja , Sulewska Hanna , Wolna-Maruwka Agnieszka , Borowiak Klaudia , Budka Anna , Ratajczak Karolina
Published: March 2019

Excessive amounts of sewage sludge produced in sewage treatment plants along with the ban on its storage and dumping require rapid solutions to the problem of sewage sludge management. An example of a rational and environmentally viable method may be provided by its application in agriculture and environmental management. The optimal solution is to use sludge as a fertiliser for industrial plants, including energy crops, that is, those not used in food production. For environmental reasons it is essential to control soil quality and condition following sludge application. Analyses of the residual effect of sewage sludge and bacteria, actinobacteria, fungi microbial inoculant (BAF) on selected physiological parameters of plants and microbial activity of soil were conducted in the years 2013–2015 on experimental fields of the Poznan University of Life Sciences. The results indicate that the application of sewage sludge increased yields and improved selected photosynthesis activity and biometric traits of willow. Among the tested combinations the best results were obtained following the application of sewage sludge combined with the BAF medium microbial inoculant. Similar dependencies were observed when evaluating soil microbial activity.
The distributive and structural characteristics of bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) in Bactrian camels (Camelus bactrianus)
Authors: He Wanhong , Zhang Wangdong , Cheng Cuicui , Li Jianfei , Wu Xiuping , Li Min , Chen Zhihua , Wang Wenhui
Published: March 2019

Background

Bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT), distributed in the bronchial mucosa, plays a critical role in maintaining the mucosal immune homeostasis of the lower respiratory tract. The bronchial tree is a functional structure for gas exchange with the outside environment and maintains basic lung morphology.

Methods

To explore the structural and distributive characteristics of BALT in Bactrian camels, twelve healthy adult Bactrian camels were divided into two groups (six in each group). The lungs, bronchial tree and BALT were observed and analysed systematically through anatomical and histological methods.

Results

The results showed that Bactrian camel lungs were constituted by the left cranial lobe, left caudal lobe, right cranial lobe, right caudal lobe and accessory lobe, but lacked the middle lobe. The cranial lobe was narrow and small, the caudal lobe was extremely developed (almost four times the cranial lobe in size), and the accessory lobe was smaller than the cranial lobe; the bronchial tree, an unequal dichotomy with a tracheobronchial branch, was composed of dorsal, ventral, lateral and medial bronchiole systems. Isolated lymphoid follicles (the chief type) and aggregates of lymphoid follicles revealed two types of BALT, and germinal centres, follicle-associated epithelium and high endothelial venules could be observed in some well-developed BALT. Additionally, BALT was scattered along the bronchial tree in the entire lung, and the density increased from the trachea to the lower graded branches (densest in the bronchioles) and then decreased, with the occasional location around respiratory bronchioles or among the pulmonary mesenchyme. In the conducting portion, BALT was primarily located in the mucosa lamina propria but was also found in the submucosa, under the muscular layer, and around the submucosal glands and cartilage.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated that the lung morphology of Bactrian camels was similar to that of horses, but the bronchial branches were more closely related to those of ruminants. These characteristics were in accordance with the morphological and structural variation regularity of lungs with species evolution. BALT was mainly scattered in the conducting portion, and bronchioles, as the final “checkpoint” in the surveillance, capture and recognition of antigens before pulmonary exchange, were the pivotal locational position of BALT. However, BALT at different depths of the bronchial wall of the conducting portion might be at different developmental stages. Our study provided evidence for further insight into the mucosal immunomodulatory mechanism of BALT in the respiratory system of Bactrian camels.
Government Health Insurance Schemes for Differently Abled – A Swot Analysis
Authors: Krishnan Lakshmi , Madankumar P. D.
Published: March 2019

Background: Health schemes and policies are not a post independence phenomena, they have been in our Indian histories since 1946. Despite advancements in health care systems, India still faces the problem of health inequality seen commonly among the underserved population. One such population which suffers the agony of both health and oral health problems are the disabled population.

Methodology: SWOT analysis done.

Results: Only two government health schemes are available for differently abled population, among these two, only one (Niramaya Scheme) offers insurance for oral health.

Conclusion: There is an urgent need to evaluate these two schemes and bring about an appropriate integrated health scheme for the differently abled.
A Review of Impacts and Mitigation Strategies of Climate Change on Dryland Agriculture
Authors: Kumar K. Mohan , Sridhara C. J. , Hanumanthappa M. , Marimuthu S.
Published: March 2019

The climate change poses a great challenge to the agriculture sector compared to any other sector in the country as it is highly a weather dependent enterprise. The study results reveal that the climatic variation such as the occurrence of drought due to irregular distribution, lesser rainfall have a high level of impact on the dryland farming by adversely affecting the yield levels of the crops. The farmer’s perception of the impact of climate change on the crops grown in Rainfed condition, such as yield reduction and reduction in net revenue. The farmers already act to the changes in the climatic changes both by adopting the technological coping mechanisms on the positive side and negatively through shifting to other professions especially more pronounced in dryland farming regions of the country. It is concluded that the small and medium Rainfed farmers were highly vulnerable to climate change and to a larger extent the small and medium Rainfed farmers adopted coping mechanisms for climate change compared to large farmers. The studies suggest that as the impact of climate change is intensifying day by day, it should be addressed through developing appropriate mitigation strategies and supported through policy perspective at the earliest to avoid short-term effects such as yield and income loss and long-term effects such as quitting agricultural profession by the dryland farmers of the country.
Annona muricata Linn leaves or Curcuma longa Linn Rhizomes Ameliorates Oxidative Stress Associated with Hypertension in Uninephrectomized Wistar Rats Daily Loaded with Sodium Chloride
Authors: Oridupa Olayinka A. , Falade Folusho B. , Oyagbemi Ademola A. , Abegunde Bukola A. , Ekwem Precious C. , Badmus Adedoyin , Omobowale Temidayo O.
Published: March 2019

Aims: Oxidative stress sequel to hypertension exacerbates the clinical condition and accelerates associated organopathies, therefore prevention is important. Traditionally in Nigeria, hypertension is treated with Annona muricata L. leaves or Curcuma longa L. rhizomes, two medicinal plants with antioxidant properties.

Study Design:  This study assessed the effect of these plants on hypertension-induced oxidative stress in uninephrectomized Wistar rats daily loaded with 1% sodium chloride.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology Experimental Animal House, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, between August and November 2017.

Methodology: Hypertensive rats were treated with methanol extracts of the plants for 42days. Two other groups of hypertensive rats were treated with lisinopril or chlorothiazide. Blood pressure was monitored by non-invasive tail plethysmography using an electro-sphygmomanometer. Oxidative stress markers were determined in blood and tissue (heart, kidney and liver); GPX, GST, GSH, SOD, MDA and NO.

Results: Treatment of uninephrectomized rats with A. muricata or C. longa significantly (p<0.0001) decreased blood pressure and MDA, while elevating enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense mechanisms of GST, GSH, GPx and SOD, comparable to normotensive rats. NO, the ubiquitous molecule required for basal vascular tone, myocardial contractility regulation and platelet adhesion prevention, was restored in the extract-treated rats. However, hypertensive untreated rats showed evidence of oxidative damages with significant increase in MDA, especially in the heart and liver, with decreases in the antioxidant defense system.

Conclusion: Results of this study justified the traditional use of A. muricata or C. longa for management of hypertension in Nigeria and showed that the extracts ameliorated oxidative damage that accompanied hypertension, thus also preventing complications of hypertension.
Allelic Diversity in Apple Germplasm for Fruit Quality and Scab Resistance Using SSR Markers
Authors: Rasool Atifa , Bhat K. M. , Rehman H. U. , Mir M. A. , Zaffar Shafia , Jan Arifa , Pandit Ashiq , Dar Z. A.
Published: March 2019

The present investigation entitled “Allelic diversity in apple germplasm for fruit quality and scab resistance using SSR markers” was conducted in division of plant biotechnology, SKUAST-K, Shalimar during the year 2018. In the present study, four SSR markers namely Md-ACS-1, Md-ACO-1, ALO-7 and AM-19 were used for screening of 40 apple cultivars presently under cultivation in SKUAST-K for quality and scab resistance. The results revealed that out of 40 cultivars evaluated, 3 were found homozygous (ACS-1-2/2), 17 were heterozygous (ACS-1-1/2) and 10 were homozygous (ACS-1-1/1), while as no amplification of ACS-1 was found for 10 cultivars. Similarly, for Md-ACO-1, 3 cultivars were found homozygous, 35 as heterozygous and 2 did not show any amplification. As far as presence of Vf gene conferring resistance against scab disease, ALO-7 amplified at 820bp and 570bp alleles, 570 bp fragment was observed in resistant genotypes and was absent in susceptible genotypes, while the 820 amplicon was observed in both resistant and susceptible genotypes. The markers AM19 led to the amplification of 520 bp fragment in few cultivars.
C677T Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Homozygosis and Vitamin Supplement in Migraineur Children
Authors: Tozzi Elisabetta , Onofri Agnese , Iapadre Giulia , Mazzilli Martina , Necozione Stefano
Published: March 2019

Purpose: Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) variant C677T has been associated with an increased genetic risk in migraine susceptibility. Individuals with the homozygous genotype show higher levels of plasma homocysteine (Hcy) [1,2,3].

Methods: Open-label study evaluating clinical trial was performed on 148 children migraineurs among 236 children suffering from headache, admitted to the Headache Regional Centre in l’Aquila (Italy)-Neuropsychiatric clinic, recruited and observed sequentially during the years 2015-2017. 31 patients (16,6% of all the sample) MTHFR homozygous were selected and underwent clinical evaluation of migraine characteristics (frequency, severity of pain and use of acute treatment) at baseline and after a 12 month-period of daily supplement of vitamins B9(2 mg), B6(25 mg), B12(400 mcg). In 20 patients with hyper Hcy (>95° percentile for age) the second collection of blood sample was obtained for Hcy assessment. Diagnosis of headache according to ICHD-III criteria. Statistical analysis is made by Wilcoxon test.

Results: 20 children suffer from Migraine without aura (MwoA) and 11 from Migraine with aura (MA). 86% of children aged >10 years had significantly higher Hcy values compared with controls (p<0.0001). 21 patients (70%), 14 F and 7 M (13 MwoA and 8 MA), have Hcy values > 95°percentile. In all the sample the vitamin supplementation was effective in producing significant reduction in Hcy levels (p=0.0001) and a significant improvement of migraine disability of frequency (p<0.0001), severity of pain (p<0.0003) and use of acute treatment (p<0.0001).

Conclusions: The study results are encouraging and emphasize the importance of a comprehensive therapy in paediatric migraines.
Relationship between Different Anthropometric Measurements and Interleukin-1β, Interleukin-17, Interleukin-27 and Interleukin-35 Levels for Iraqi Infertile Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Hantoosh Sundus Fadhil , Zageer Dheaa Shamikh , Al-Jumaili Farah T. O.
Published: March 2019

Aims: The study aimed to study impact of type and amount of body fat distribution on interleukin-1β, interleukin-17, interleukin-27, and interleukin-35 levels and on immunologic infertility.

Study Design: The study was carried on infertile polycystic ovarian syndrome women.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was performed with study subjects attended consultant clinic of Higher Institute for Infertility Diagnosis and Assisted Reproductive Technologies at AL-Nahrain University in Baghdad/Iraq during the period from February 2016 to April 2016.

Materials and Methods: Twenty-six infertile polycystic ovarian syndrome women were enrolled in this study. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist to hip ratio (WHR) measurements were calculated to all cases. Serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-17 (IL-17), interleukin-27 (IL-27), and interleukin-35 (IL-35) concentrations were measured on cycle day 2.

Results: Significant difference in distribution according to BMI, WC, and WHR (P=0.0001, P=0.0001, P=0.04, respectively). Significant difference in IL-1β concentrations according to WHR (P=0.04). Significant difference in IL-17 concentrations according to BMI, WC, and WHR (P=0.02, P=0.03, P=0.008, respectively). Significant difference in IL-27 concentrations according to WC (P=0.03). Significant difference in IL-35 concentrations according to BMI and WC (P=0.0001, P=0.0001, respectively).

Conclusions: Amount and type of body fat distribution considerably affected and altered IL-1β, IL-17, IL-27, and IL-35 concentrations and consequently had a role in immunologic infertility.
A Study on Biochemical Properties and Effects of Different Vegetable Oils on Blood Indices in Wistar Rats
Authors: Rahman Md. Tohidur , . Meherunnahar , Ali Muhammad , Rahman Shaikh Shahinur , Rana A. Y. K. M. Masud , Yeasmin Kumkum , Rahman Md. Hafizur
Published: March 2019

Mustard oil is popular edible oil in Bangladesh. It contains about more than fifty percent erucic acid which is toxic to human beings. This study evaluated the determination of biochemical properties (acid value, iodine value, saponification value and unsaponifiable matter %) of mustard oil, virgin coconut and sesame oil and toxicity determination of these oils through blood indices targeting of these oil by mixing with normal diet as a dietary supplementation. This study found acid value of mustard, sesame and virgin coconut oil was 0.92, 0.312, 0.52 respectively. Iodine value of mustard, sesame and virgin coconut oil were 110.2, 105.2, and 11 respectively. Saponification value of wild mustard, sesame and virgin coconut oil was 171.1, 187.2 and 240   respectively and unsaponifiable matter % of mustard, sesame and virgin coconut oil was 1.19, 0.31 and 0.92 respectively. Also in vivo experiment  we divided wistar male rats were 4 groups such as normal diet 12 g/day/rat, mustard oil (MO) 0.6 g/day/rat, virgin coconut oil (VCO) 0.6g/day/rat and sesame oil (SO) 0.6 g/day/rat. In this study the vegetable oil causes the effect on average body weight gain, Food Efficiency Ratio (FER), and lipid profiles  [Total cholesterol (Tch), HDL- Cholesterol  LDL - Cholesterol, Triglyceride (TG)] and serum  enzymes [SGOT (AST), SGPT (ALT)] of different groups of rat also been estimated. The study found that mustard oil significantly (p<0.05) increase lipid profile and enzymes SGOT, SGPT level in blood serum which is an indication of heart and liver disorder. The study found that coconut and sesame oil consumption in rat significantly (p<0.05) decrease of these parameters.
Evaluation of Patients’ Responses to Oral Hypoglycemic Agents at a University Health Centre
Authors: Ajulo Olugbenga Matthew , Ajulo Oluwatoyin Hephzibah
Published: March 2019

Background: There were 1.5 million deaths caused by diabetes in 2012, of which more than 80% of diabetes deaths occurred in developing countries. WHO estimated diabetes would be the 7th leading cause of death by 2030.

Aim: The study aimed at evaluating type 2 diabetes mellitus patients’ clinical responses after use of oral hypoglycaemic agents.

Study Design: The study was a retrospective observational study.

Place and duration of Study: The study was undertaken at Primary healthcare facility, University Health Centre. The study monitored case notes of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients who attended the endocrinology clinic within the ten years of review. 

Methods: After ethical approval was given, a retrospective evaluation of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients’ folders was done for one hundred and nineteen patients who attended the endocrinology clinic. Relevant information obtained from patients’ folders were collated and analysed.

Results: Out of one hundred and nineteen participants who received oral hypoglycaemic agents, seventy-six (63.8%) participants were in the age range of 45-55 years, followed by twenty-four (20.2%) participants with age range of greater than 55 years. Sixty-eight (57.1%) participants were females while fifty-one (42.9%) were males. Forty two (35.3%) participants had a controlled plasma glucose level of <110 mg/dl while seventy-seven (64.7%) participants had plasma glucose level of >110 mg/dl. Efficacy index was highest for Daonil+Glycomet followed by Diabinese+Glucophage and Glucovance respectively.

Conclusion: The study indicated that fewer type 2 diabetes mellitus patients’ plasma glucose levels were controlled by two drugs combination therapy involving metformin.
Bacteriological Quality of Kunu Drink Sold in Bayelsa State Nigeria and the Pathogenic Potential of Some Isolates
Authors: . Amala , Enoch Smart , Omeremu Daw, Mercy
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Kunu or kunun-zaki is a beverage drink made from grains such as millet, sorghum and maize or other combinations. It is a non-alcoholic beverage marketed in public places such as offices, markets, schools, motor parks and used in festivities such as weddings, birthday celebration, naming ceremonies etc. The high bacterial content of kunu calls for investigation.

Aim: The aim of this research is to isolate, identify bacterial contaminants in kunu and determine enterotoxin producing abilities of some isolates.

Methodology: A total of 150 bottles of kunu were purchased, 50 each from Yenagoa, Sagbama and Ogbia respectively. Each bottle of kunu was properly mixed by gentle inversion several times and 1 mL of the kunu was pipetted and added to 9mL sterile peptone water. Subsequent serial dilution was made to 105. Then 0.1 mL was placed on agar media in duplicate. The plates were incubated at 37°C for 18-24 hours and examined for growth.

Results: The bacteria isolated from Kunu were Staphylococcus aureus 150 (27.8%), Escherichia coli 150 (27.8%), Bacillus sp. 150 (27.8%) and Staphylococci sp. 90 (16.7%) respectively. Out of the S. aureus isolated, 25 (16.6%) produced enterotoxin and E. coli isolated, 19 (13%) produced enterotoxin respectively.

Conclusion: The contamination of kunu occurs during processing, packaging and by vendors. Improved personal hygiene of the producers, environment and proper preservation methods will reduces bacterial proliferation and spoilage of kunu. The consumption of kunu is of public health interest.