bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypermethylation of Single CpG Dinucleotides at the Promoter of CXCL13 Gene Promoting Cell Migration in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Ma Dong , Fan Shao-Bei , Hua Na , Li Guo-Hua , Chang Quan , Liu Xiao
Published: January 2020

Background:

Chemokine 13 (CXCL13) and its chemokine receptor 5 (CXCR5) are involved
in the onset of various types of cancer. However, their role in cervical cancer (CC) remains
unknown.

Objective:

To investigate the role of chemokine 13 (CXCL13) and its receptor in CC.

Methods:

The expression of CXCL13/CXCR5 and the infiltration of CXCR5+CD8+ T cells in CC,
cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), normal cervical epithelial (NCE) tissues, and in CC cell
lines were analysed and the associated clinical significance was determined. In vitro, CXCL13 overexpression
and DNA methyltransferase inhibition (through S110) were used to investigate the biological
function and the underlying mechanism that regulates CXCL13 expression. Tumor growth
and liver metastasis were also evaluated in the xenogenous subcutaneously implant model.

Results:

CXCL13/CXCR5 expression levels and the infiltration of CXCR5+CD8+ T cells were significantly
decreased in CC tissues compared with CIN and NCE tissues. CXCL13 downregulation
was significantly correlated with the FIGO stages, lymph node metastasis, interstitial infiltration
depth, and pathological grade. The overexpression of CXCL13 suppressed CC cell migration.
CXCL13 downregulation was associated with hypermethylation in CC cell lines, and primary tumor
biopsies. Furthermore, a CpG dinucleotide at the HIF-1a transcription factor motifs in the promoter
element of CXCL13 was consistently methylated in CC cells and associated with HIF-1a. CXCL13
overexpression and S110 treatment dramatically repressed tumor growth and liver metastasis in the
xenograft model; whereas it’s low expression increased the risk of death in CC patients.

Conclusion:

DNA methylation-dependent CXCL13 downregulation may promote cervical carcinogenesis
and progression.
3D Shared Matting Method for Directly Extracting Standard Organ Models from Human Body Color Volume Image
Authors: Liu Bin , Niu Xiaolei , Zhang Xiaohui , Zhang Song , Zhang Jianxin , Qi Wen , Yang Liang
Published: January 2020

Background:

In some medical applications (e.g., virtual surgery), standard human organ
models are very important and useful. Now that real human body slice image sets have been
collected by several countries, it is possible to obtain real standard organ models.

Introduction:

Understanding how to abandon the traditional model construction method of Photoshop
sketching slice by slice and directly extracting 3D models from volume images has been an
interesting and challenging issue. In this paper, a 3D color volume image matting method has
been proposed to segment human body organ models.

Methods:

First, the scope of the known area will be expanded by means of propagation. Next,
neighborhood sampling to find the best sampling for voxels in an unknown region will be performed
and then the preliminary opacity using the sampling results will be calculated.

Results:

The final result will be obtained by applying local smoothing to the image.

Conclusion:

From the experimental results, it has been observed that our method is effective for
real standard organ model extraction.
Computer-Aided Detection System for the Classification of Non-Small Cell Lung Lesions using SVM
Authors: Jain Shruti
Published: January 2020

Introduction:

Lung carcinoma is the most commonly cancer causing deaths throughout
the world that mainly occurs due to smoking. Small cell lung cancer and Non-small cell lung cancer
(NSCLC) are the two different types of Lung cancer. For the detection and classification of
lung cancer, there are different techniques in the literature.

Methods:

This paper emphasis on the three class classification of the Adenocarcinomas, Squamous
cell carcinomas, and large cell carcinomas of NSCLC. For precise and superior results,
Computer Aided Detection (CADe) system has been designed so that the radiologist can diagnose
carcinoma in the ultrasonic images conveniently. CADe analyses the quality of the images, selects
the region of interest, preprocesses the data, extracts the features and classifies the cancer.

Methods:

This paper emphasis on the three class classification of the Adenocarcinomas, Squamous
cell carcinomas, and large cell carcinomas of NSCLC. For precise and superior results,
Computer Aided Detection (CADe) system has been designed so that the radiologist can diagnose
carcinoma in the ultrasonic images conveniently. CADe analyses the quality of the images, selects
the region of interest, preprocesses the data, extracts the features and classifies the cancer.

Results:

After exhaustive literature survey, Laws’ mask features and SVM classifier with Gaussian
RBF kernels have been used in this paper. The experimentation was performed on 92 images using
50% - 50% training and testing criteria.

Conclusion:

Comparative study reveals that our system for separating three class lung cancer provides
95.65% average accuracy for Laws' mask 3 dimensions using the SVM classifier that is maximum
among the existing methods reported in the literature using the same dataset.
Uncovering the Diversification of Tissue Engineering on the Emergent Areas of Stem Cells, Nanotechnology and Biomaterials
Authors: Dubey Sunil K. , Alexander Amit , Sivaram Munnangi , Agrawal Mukta , Singhvi Gautam , Sharma Swapnil , Dayaramani Richa
Published: January 2020

Damaged or disabled tissue is life-threatening due to the lack of proper treatment. Many
conventional transplantation methods like autograft, iso-graft and allograft are in existence for ages,
but they are not sufficient to treat all types of tissue or organ damages. Stem cells, with their unique
capabilities like self-renewal and differentiate into various cell types, can be a potential strategy for
tissue regeneration. However, the challenges like reproducibility, uncontrolled propagation and differentiation,
isolation of specific kinds of cell and tumorigenic nature made these stem cells away from
clinical application. Today, various types of stem cells like embryonic, fetal or gestational tissue, mesenchymal
and induced-pluripotent stem cells are under investigation for their clinical application. Tissue
engineering helps in configuring the stem cells to develop into a desired viable tissue, to use them
clinically as a substitute for the conventional method. The use of stem cell-derived Extracellular Vesicles
(EVs) is being studied to replace the stem cells, which decreases the immunological complications
associated with the direct administration of stem cells. Tissue engineering also investigates various biomaterials
to use clinically, either to replace the bones or as a scaffold to support the growth of stemcells/
tissue. Depending upon the need, there are various biomaterials like bio-ceramics, natural and
synthetic biodegradable polymers to support replacement or regeneration of tissue. Like the other fields
of science, tissue engineering is also incorporating the nanotechnology to develop nano-scaffolds to
provide and support the growth of stem cells with an environment mimicking the Extracellular matrix
(ECM) of the desired tissue. Tissue engineering is also used in the modulation of the immune system
by using patient-specific Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) and by modifying the physical features of
scaffolds that may provoke the immune system. This review describes the use of various stem cells,
biomaterials and the impact of nanotechnology in regenerative medicine.
Molecular Modelling, Synthesis and Evaluation of Flavone and Flavanone Scaffolds as Anti-inflammatory Agents
Authors: Kiruthiga Natarajan , Alagumuthu Manikandan , Selvinthanuja Chellappa , Srinivasan Kulandaivel , Sivakumar Thangavel
Published: January 2020

Objective:

The objective of the study was to develop new Cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors as
anti-inflammatory agents from the synthetic route.

Materials and Methods:

The 2-phenyl-4H-chromen-4-one and 2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-4H-chromenone
hybrids were synthesised and characterised by using UV, IR, 1H-NMR, and mass spectrometry.
An attempt was made for consolidated lead flavones and flavanones scaffolds by determining ADME/
T properties. Molecular docking simulations were performed by using Autodock.4 to understand
the binding interaction over the targeted enzyme Cyclooxygenase-2. The titled compounds were
evaluated for various in-vitro models for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and based upon
the IC50 values, the selected compounds were screened for in vivo anti-inflammatory activity by both
acute and chronic models.

Results:

Twenty titled compounds were synthesised and elucidated their structure
for confirmation of their functional groups by various spectroscopic techniques. Among the synthesized
compounds, flavone derivatives such as HFc (7-hydroxy-3-(4-methoxy phenyl)-4H-chromen-4-
one), HFd (2-(2,4-di methoxy-phenyl)-7-hydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one) and HFe (7-hydroxy-2-
(thiophen-2-yl)-4H-chromen-4-one) produced higher potency. Flavanone derivatives HFAc (7-
hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxy phenyl)-2,3-dihydro-4H-chromen-4-one), HFAb (7-hydroxy-2-(4-
methoxy phenyl)-2,3-dihydro-4H-chromen-4-one) and HFAd (7-hydroxy-2-(thiophen-2-yl)-2,3-
dihydro-4H-chromen-4-one) showed significant anti-inflammatory activity compared to the standard
COX-2 inhibitors.

Conclusions:

The flavone and flavanone scaffolds possess their excellent inhibitory action over the
Cyclooxygenase-2 and act as a potential anti-inflammatory agent. The results of computational studies
were also significantly correlated and concluded that those naturally mimicking flavonoid analogues
were tremendous candidates to fight against the inflammatory diseases in drug discovery.
Patrimônio geomorfológico e interpretação ambiental em trilhas de montanha (Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil)
Authors: Pessoa Fernando Amaro , Brito Adriel Filipe Soares , Pacheco Fabio Feler , Peixoto Maria Naíse Oliveira , Mansur Kátia Leite
Published: January 2020

Promover a valorização da geodiversidade e de seu patrimônio geomorfológico em unidades de conservação, a partir de uma perspectiva interdisciplinar, é de suma importância e contribui para o uso sustentável destes territórios e seu entorno. O Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos (PARNASO), localizado na Serra do Mar, região Sudeste do Brasil, possui um conjunto de montanhas com grande valor estético que possibilita ressaltar outros valores e usos, como o científico, o didático e o turístico dos seus geomorfossítios, por meio de uma interpretação ambiental em trilhas, contribuindo no cumprimento de seus objetivos de acordo com o Sistema Nacional de Unidades de Conservação. O presente trabalho apresenta uma proposta de caracterização da geodiversidade do PARNASO e a implementação de estratégias de gestão e divulgação do patrimônio geomorfológico em trilhas de montanha, a partir da elaboração de roteiros geoturísticos e didáticos, com o auxílio do aplicativo de navegação Wikiloc®. Neste sentido, detalhar, registrar e divulgar aspectos da geodiversidade em trilhas contribui no destaque da dimensão estética da paisagem, da sua dimensão dinâmica, ao identificar e visualizar processos e mudanças, e também da sua imbricação de escalas, seja espacial ou temporal. Então, é necessário ressaltar uma abordagem mais integrada ligando a geodiversidade, a biodiversidade, a paisagem e as pessoas, aspecto central em que a presente pesquisa pretende contribuir.
Optic cup segmentation using adaptive threshold and morphological image processing
Authors: Adi Nugroho Hanung , Kirana Thea , Pranowo Vicko , Hutami Augustine Herini Tita
Published: January 2020

Glaucoma is a chronic optic neuropathy. It was predicted that people with bilateral blindness caused by glaucoma will increase each year. Hence, computer-aided diagnosis of glaucoma was proposed to assist ophthalmologist to conduct a fast and accurate glaucoma screening. One of the ocular examination in screening is optic nerve examination called disc damage likelihood scale (DDLS). It is important to find the optic disc and the optic cup to determine the narrowest width of the neuroretinal rim when using DDLS. To find the optic cup, this study proposed a segmentation scheme consisting of pre-process, segmentation, convex hull and morphological opening operation. In pre-process the blood vessel was removed to make the segmentation process of the optic cup easier. The segmentation process was done by using an adaptive thresholding followed by morphological image processing such as convex hull, opening and erosion. This algorithm was applied on Magrabia dataset and attained accuracy, specificity and sensitivity of 99.50%, 99.75% and 75.19% respectively.
A Self-help Tool to Facilitate Implementation of eHealth Initiatives in Health Care (E-Ready): Formative Evaluation (Preprint)
Authors: Dannapfel Petra , Thomas Kristin , Chakhunashvili Alexander , Melin Jeanette , Trolle Lagerros Ylva
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

eHealth interventions have the potential to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of health care. However, research has shown that implementing eHealth in routine health care practice is difficult. Organizational readiness to change has been shown to be central to successful implementation. This paper describes the development and formative evaluation of a generic self-help tool, E-Ready, designed to be used by managers, project leaders, or others responsible for implementation in a broad range of health care settings.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to develop and evaluate a tool that could facilitate eHealth implementation in, for example, health care.

METHODS

A first version of the tool was generated based on implementation theory (E-Ready 1.0). A formative evaluation was undertaken through expert panels (n=15), cognitive interviews (n=17), and assessment of measurement properties on E-Ready items from 3 different workplaces (n=165) using Rasch analyses. E-Ready 1.0 was also field tested among the target population (n=29). Iterative revisions were conducted during the formative evaluation process, and E-Ready 2.0 was generated.

RESULTS

The E-Ready Tool consists of a readiness assessment survey and a hands-on manual. The survey measures perceived readiness for change (willingness and capability) at individual and collective levels: perceived conditions for change at the workplace, perceived individual conditions for change, perceived support and engagement among management, perceived readiness among colleagues, perceived consequences on status quo, and perceived workplace attitudes. The manual contains a brief introduction, instructions on how to use the tool, information on the themes of E-Ready, instructions on how to create an implementation plan, brief advice for success, and tips for further reading on implementation theory. Rasch analyses showed overall acceptable measurement properties in terms of fit validity. The subscale Individual conditions for change (3 items) had the lowest person reliability (0.56), whereas Perceived consequences on status quo (5 items) had the highest person reliability (0.87).

CONCLUSIONS

E-Ready 2.0 is a new self-help tool to guide implementation targeting health care provider readiness and engagement readiness ahead of eHealth initiatives in, for example, health care settings. E-Ready can be improved further to capture additional aspects of implementation; improvements can also be made by evaluating the tool in a larger sample.
Virtual Reality Smartphone-Based Intervention for Smoking Cessation: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial on Initial Clinical Efficacy and Adherence (Preprint)
Authors: Goldenhersch Emilio , Thrul Johannes , Ungaretti Joaquín , Rosencovich Nicolas , Waitman Cristian , Ceberio Marcelo Rodriguez
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

Obstacles to current tobacco cessation programs include limited access and adherence to effective interventions. Digital interventions offer a great opportunity to overcome these difficulties, yet virtual reality has not been used as a remote and self-administered tool to help increase adherence and effectiveness of digital interventions for tobacco cessation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate participant adherence and smoking cessation outcomes in a pilot randomized controlled trial of the digital intervention Mindcotine (MindCotine Inc) using a self-administered treatment of virtual reality combined with mindfulness.

METHODS

A sample of 120 participants was recruited in the city of Buenos Aires, Argentina (mean age 43.20 years, SD 9.50; 57/120, 47.5% female). Participants were randomly assigned to a treatment group (TG), which received a self-assisted 21-day program based on virtual reality mindful exposure therapy (VR-MET) sessions, daily surveys, and online peer-to-peer support moderated by psychologists, or a control group (CG), which received the online version of the smoking cessation manual from the Argentine Ministry of Health. Follow-up assessments were conducted by online surveys at postintervention and 90-day follow-up. The primary outcome was self-reported abstinence at postintervention, with missing data assumed as still smoking. Secondary outcomes included sustained abstinence at 90-day follow-up, adherence to the program, and readiness to quit.

RESULTS

Follow-up rates at day 1 were 93% (56/60) for the TG and 100% (60/60) for the CG. At postintervention, the TG reported 23% (14/60) abstinence on that day compared with 5% (3/60) in the CG. This difference was statistically significant (χ21=8.3; P=.004). The TG reported sustained abstinence of 33% (20/60) at 90 days. Since only 20% (12/60) of participants in the CG completed the 90-day follow-up, we did not conduct a statistical comparison between groups at this follow-up time point. Among participants still smoking at postintervention, the TG was significantly more ready to quit compared to the CG (TG: mean 7.71, SD 0.13; CG: mean 7.16, SD 0.13; P=.005). A total of 41% (23/56) of participants completed the treatment in the time frame recommended by the program.

CONCLUSIONS

Results provide initial support for participant adherence to and efficacy of Mindcotine and warrant testing the intervention in a fully powered randomized trial. However, feasibility of trial follow-up assessment procedures for control group participants needs to be improved. Further research is needed on the impact of VR-MET on long-term outcomes.

CLINICALTRIAL

ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN50586181; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN50586181
Academic Half-Days: Facilitated Small Groups to Promote Interactive Learning
Authors: Armson Heather , Wycliffe-Jones Keith , Mackay Maria Palacios , Roder Stefanie
Published: January 2020

Background and Objectives: Medical educators have expressed interest in using less didactic and more interactive formats for academic half-days (AHDs) in postgraduate residency training. We assessed the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing a practice-based small-group learning (PBSGL) process as one part of AHDs.
Methods: A mixed-methods approach was used. Over a two-year period, family medicine residents at the University of Calgary took part in PBSGL sessions during their AHDs, discussing clinical cases presented in evidence-based educational modules and reflecting on clinical experiences with the guidance of a trained peer facilitator. Data sources to explore experiences with the PBSGL process included an evaluation questionnaire, a practice reflection tool (PRT; documenting patient management plans) and individual interviews (n=19) with residents and faculty preceptors.
Results: Of 148 residents, 139 (93%) agreed to participate. Participants were divided into groups of 14-16 members to discuss 12 different module topics. Participants indicated that ongoing small-group interactions were helpful in meeting learning needs and provided opportunities to share and learn from experiences of others in a safe environment. Group facilitation by residents was successful. Level of resident participation and time to preread modules were factors contributing to successful small-group interactions. Modules were rated as effective learning tools, and sample cases were perceived as representing typical cases encountered in practice. Although participants intended to apply their learning to practice, follow through was hindered by lack of relevant clinical cases.
Conclusions: Ongoing small-group learning facilitated by residents, coupled with evidence-based educational materials, was a feasible approach to AHDs.
Maternal Type 1 Diabetes Reduces Autoantigen-Responsive CD4+ T Cells in Offspring
Authors: Knoop Jan , Eugster Anne , Gavrisan Anita , Lickert Ramona , Sedlmeier Eva-Maria , Dietz Sevina , Lindner Annett , Warncke Katharina , Hummel Nadine , Ziegler Anette-Gabriele , Bonifacio Ezio
Published: January 2020

Autoimmunity against pancreatic β-cell autoantigens is a characteristic of childhood type 1 diabetes (T1D). Autoimmunity usually appears in genetically susceptible children with the development of autoantibodies against (pro)insulin in early childhood. The offspring of mothers with T1D are protected from this process. The aim of this study was to determine whether the protection conferred by maternal T1D is associated with improved neonatal tolerance against (pro)insulin. Consistent with improved neonatal tolerance, the offspring of mothers with T1D had reduced cord blood CD4+ T-cell responses to proinsulin and insulin, a reduction in the inflammatory profile of their proinsulin-responsive CD4+ T cells, and improved regulation of CD4+ T cell responses to proinsulin at 9 months of age, as compared with offspring with a father or sibling with T1D. Maternal T1D was also associated with a modest reduction in CpG methylation of the INS gene in cord blood mononuclear cells from offspring with a susceptible INS genotype. Our findings support the concept that a maternal T1D environment improves neonatal immune tolerance against the autoantigen (pro)insulin.
PENGARUH TIPE KEPRIBADIAN TERHADAP SELF-DISCLOSURE PADA DEWASA AWAL PENGGUNA MEDIA SOSIAL INSTAGRAM DI KOTA BANDUNG
Authors: Fauzia Alya Zachra , Maslihah Sri , Ihsan Helli
Published: January 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh tipe kepribadian terhadap self-disclosure pada dewasa awal pengguna instagram di Kota Bandung. Pendekatan penelitian yang digunakan dalampenelitian ini adalah kuantitatif. Jumlah partisipan yang terlibat dalam penelitian ini adalah sebanyak 400 orang dewasa awal pengguna instagram. Instrumen yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Revised Self-Disclosure Scales (RSDS) untuk mengukur self-disclosure dan Eysenck Personality Questionnaire Brief version (EPQ-BV) untuk mengukur tipe kepribadian. Analisis data pada penelitian ini menggunakan regresi linear sederhana. Hasil  yang diperoleh menunjukan bahwa terdapat pengaruh yang signifikan tipe kepribadian terhadap self-disclosure. Extraversion dan neuroticism memiliki pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap self-disclosure pada dewasa awal pengguna instagram di Kota Bandung. Rekomendasi untuk peneliti selanjutnya adalah menambahkan variabel lain yang dapat mempengaruhi self-disclosure serta menggunakan metode lain.
Note On Jakimovski-Leviatan Operators Preserving e
–x
Authors: Acar Ecem , İzgi Aydın , Serenbay Sevilay Kirci
Published: January 2020

In the present article, a modification of Jakimovski-Leviatan operators is presented which reproduce constant and e
–x
functions. We prove uniform convergence order of a quantitative estimate for the modified operators. We also give a quantitative Voronovskya type theorem.
New iterative schemes for solving variational inequality and fixed points problems involving demicontractive and quasi-nonexpansive mappings in Banach spaces
Authors: Sow T.M.M.
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we suggest and analyze a new iterative method for finding a common element of the set of fixed points of a quasi-nonexpansive mapping and the set of fixed points of a demicontractive mapping which is the unique solution of some variational inequality problems involving accretive operators in a Banach space. We prove the strong convergence of the proposed iterative scheme without imposing any compactness condition on the mapping or the space. Finally, applications of our theorems to some constrained convex minimization problems are given.
Results of surgical correction of gigantic left atrium
Authors: Tuleutayev Rustem , Urazbekov Daurenbek , Abzaliyev Kuat , Rakishev Baurjan , Nurollaeva Nazym , Baiguisova Dinara , Muhamedjanova Aigerim
Published: January 2020

We presented a clinical case of surgical treatment of gigantic left atrium in longstanding mitral regurgitation due to mitral valve disease diagnosed 23 years ago (patient refused surgery and was on medical treatment) and complicated by atrial fibrillation. The patient was referred for surgery with complaints on severe dyspnea on minimal exertion, weakness, fatigue, palpitations and massive leg edema. Diagnosis was established using electrocardiography, chest X-Ray, transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography, and computed tomography. The patient underwent mitral valve replacement, tricuspid valve annuloplasty and left atrial reduction surgery (atrioplasty by Kawazoe). After surgery, left atrial volume decreased from 813 ml to 294 ml and antero-posterior size from 11.2 to 6.2 cm. The patient was discharged on 8th day after surgery. Control examinations after 6 months and 1 year showed reduction of left atrial volume (319 ml and 294 ml); patient feels well and has no complaints.

Thus, our case demonstrated reduction of left atrium early in postoperative period and its slow reduction after surgery during 1 year. It is also showed human reserve capacity and possibility of left atrial dilatation to such sizes. Late diagnosis of such changes in heart is possibly related to the fact that patient was afraid to see doctors and undergo surgery. The left atrial cavity size determination can be done intraoperatively using method of surgical glove we suggested.
A IMPORTÂNCIA DA GOVERNANÇA CORPORATIVA E DO CONTROLE INTERNO NA ÁREA CONTÁBIL
Authors: Souza Andrea Brasil e , Bauer Maristela Mercedes , Coletti Luciana
Published: January 2020

Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar a percepção dos profissionais da área contábil do Vale do Rio do Sinos-RS em relação à importância do controle interno no contexto das boas práticas de governança corporativa. Para tanto, utilizou-se as pesquisas descritiva, bibliográfica, levantamento, com abordagem qualitativa e quantitativa. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de questionário, desenvolvido com perguntas abertas e fechadas, com alternativas de simples ou múltipla escolha, aplicados em uma amostra não probabilística por acessibilidade. O estudo apontou que os profissionais da área contábil participantes dessa pesquisa percebem que esses controles possuem importância no contexto das boas práticas de governança corporativa, através de seus princípios de transparência, equidade, prestação de contas e responsabilidade corporativa.Palavras-chave: Governança Corporativa. Controles Internos. Transparência. Contabilidade.ABSTRACTThis study aims to analyze the perception of accounting professionals in Vale do Rio do Sinos Rio Grande do Sul State in relation to the importance of internal control in the context of good corporate governance practices. For that, it was used the descriptive, bibliographic and survey researches, with qualitative and quantitative approaches. The data collection was performed through a questionnaire, developed with open and closed questions, with simple or multiple choice alternatives, applied in a non-probabilistic sample for accessibility. The study pointed out that the accounting professionals participating in this research perceive that these controls are important in the context of good corporate governance practices, through their principles of transparency, fairness, accountability and corporate responsibility.Keywords: Corporate Governance. Internal controls. Transparency. Accounting.
CRIAÇÃO DE VALOR COMPARTILHADO E NEGÓCIOS SOCIAIS: EXPLORANDO RELAÇÕES ENTRE ESTRATÉGIAS E DIMENSÕES
Authors: Gomes Júnior Alexandre De Araújo , Oliveira Verônica Macário de , Lira Amanda De Araujo Rodrigues , Correia Suzanne Érica Nobrega
Published: January 2020

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar como o modelo de negócios sociais se relaciona com as estratégias de criação de valor compartilhado propostas por Porter e Kramer (2011). Para atingi-lo, optou-se pela realização de um estudo de caso múltiplo em dois negócios sociais do setor de educação e tecnologia que atuam no Brasil, que teve como técnicas de coleta de dados a pesquisa documental e a entrevista semiestruturada. Os resultados apontaram que nos modelos de negócios sociais analisados estão implícitas as estratégias de criação de valor compartilhado, pois para atender as necessidades dos mercados em que atuam, os de pessoas de baixa renda e/ou com necessidades especiais, essas organizações precisaram oferecer produtos distintos daqueles que são ofertados em mercados tradicionais. Além disso, esses negócios sociais necessitaram de uma estrutura de operações e competências que contribuíssem para a redução de custos e geração de impacto social; e de um ambiente externo que apoiasse suas atividades para que os benefícios sociais e econômicos pudessem ser disseminados.Palavras-chave: Negócios sociais. Modelo de negócio. Estratégias de criação de valor compartilhado.ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study was to analyze how the social business model relates to the shared value creation strategies proposed by Porter and Kramer (2011). Thus, it was conducting a multiple case study in two social businesses of the education and technology sector operating in Brazil, which had as data collection techniques the documentary research and the semi-structured interview. The results pointed out that the social business models analyzed are implicit in shared value creation strategies because to meet the needs of the markets in which they operate, those of low-income and people with special needs, these organizations had to offer different products those provided in traditional markets. Also, these social businesses required a structure of operations and competencies that contributed to cost reduction and social impact generation; and an external environment that supports their activities to disseminate social and economic benefits.Keywords: Social Business. Business model. Strategies for creating shared value.
Current advancements in the management of spinal cord injury: A comprehensive review of literature
Authors: Shah Manan , Peterson Catherine , Yilmaz Emre , Halalmeh Dia Radi , Moisi Marc
Published: January 2020

Background:

Spinal cord injury (SCI) carries debilitating lifelong consequences and, therefore, requires careful review of different treatment strategies.

Methods:

An extensive review of the English literature (PubMed 1990 and 2019) was performed regarding recent advances in the treatment of SCI; this included 46 articles written over 28 years.

Results:

Results of this search were divided into five major modalities; neuroprotective and neuroregenerative pharmaceuticals, neuromodulation, stem cell-based therapies, and various external prosthetic devices. Lately, therapeutic strategies were mainly focused on two major areas: neuroregeneration and neuroprotection.

Conclusion:

Despite recent advancements, more clinical trials on a larger scale and further research are needed to provide better treatment modalities of this devastating neurological disease.
STRATEGI PENGEMBANGAN BADAN USAHA MILIK DESA (BUMDES) BERBASIS PERTANIAN DI KABUPATEN SUMBAWA BARAT
Authors: Nursan Muhammad , Utama FR Aeko Fria
Published: January 2020

One of the efforts to develop village economic in West Sumbawa Regency is to establish and develop Village Owned Enterprise (Bumdes) based on agriculture. The purpose of this research is to find out internal and external factors of Bumdes based on agriculture; and formulating strategies for developing Bumdes based on agriculture in West Sumbawa Regency. This research was conducted in West Sumbawa Regency. 40 respondents were selected by purposive sampling. This research method is survey method. The instrument validity test was carried out with the Pearson Product Moment correlation technique, and for the reliability test with the Cronbach Alpha formula. Data collected were analysed using SWOT analysis. The results show that internal factors in the form of the main strength of Bumdes based on agriculture is the business managed by Bumdes serving the basic needs of community, while the main weakness is the capacity of managers managing Bumdes still lacking, and the absence of marketing networks. For external factors, the main opportunities of Bumdes based on agriculture are the support of local and central government regulations, the area and potential of agriculture can be developed optimally as well as the development and expansion of agricultural businesse, while the main threats of Bumdes are the lack of community participation in Bumdes activities. Results of  SWOT analysis, the strategy Bumdes based on agriculture in West Sumbawa Regency can be done using the W-O (Weakness-opportunity) strategy, which is a strategy that minimizes the weaknesses that are owned to seize opportunities. Keywords: Analysis. SWOT, Agriculture, Development Strategy, Village Owned Enterprise, West Sumbawa Regency
Labor’s Declining Share of Income and Rising Inequality
Authors: Jacobson Margaret , Occhino Filippo
Published: January 2020

Labor income has been declining as a share of total income earned in the United States for the past three decades. We look at the past effect of the labor share decline on income inequality, and we study the likely future path of the labor share and its implications for inequality.
Impact of Managerial Self-efficacy, Improvement-oriented Employees’ Voice Fearing External Threat on Performance
Authors: Arooj Fatima  , Mumtaz Muhammad Khan  , Sher Muhammad Malik
Published: January 2020

Managers’ self-efficacy, being an active area of research, is important as it encourages employees’ performance. The feedback of highly self-efficacious managers in making better decisions is important to meet the global challenges that world is facing. This study explores literature on the relationship between managerial self-efficacy and employees’ performance. We further empirically tested the hypothesis in the banking sector in Pakistan and the results supported the theoretical implications. The study can serve as a basis for further studies and is practically useful for managers for improving employee performance.
Determination of harpagoside in Harpagophytum procumbens DC tablet’s using analytical method by High Performance Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Ribeiro Gislane Dos Santos , Carneiro Amanda De Assis , Martins Diegue Henrique Nascimento , Simeoni Luiz Alberto , Silveira Dâmaris , Magalhães Pérola Oliveira , Fonseca-Bazzo Yris Maria
Published: January 2020

The species Harpagophytum procumbens DC. is popularly known as devil’s claw and is widely used because of its anti-inflammatory properties that are attributed to an iridoid glycoside, the harpagoside. This medicinal plant is part of the Brazilian List of Essential Medicines, that is, it was selected and standardized for the resolution of diseases in the Brazilian public health system, SUS, and can be found in several brands. Due to the importance of quality monitoring, the objective of this study was to create and validate a method for identification and quantification of harpagoside in tablets of the devil’s claw, as well as to evaluate the content of this iridoid glycoside in three commercially available brands in Brasília, DF, Brazil. The evaluated parameters in the validation by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were linearity, limits of detection and quantification, precision, selectivity, accuracy and robustness, as required by the Brazilian regulation. The developed and validated method proved satisfactory for the quality control of commercial products that present in this composition the medicinal plant. All the devil’s claw brands presented divergences regarding the quality that can interfere with therapeutics and with safety and efficacy.
Grain-size mineral analysis of verdete rock coarse and fine aggregates and adjustment to two granulometric distribution models
Authors: Madeira Aline Amaral
Published: January 2020

The supremacy of the mineral industry added to the necessity to supply the world market demand justifies the continuous research efforts for optimizing of the activities of mineral resource utilization. In an approach of mineral characterization, a grain-size analysis study of coarse and fine aggregates of verdete rock was presented in this work. The particle size distribution (PSD) of two samples of aggregates with granulometry < 2.36 mm was experimentally obtained using sieving techniques and adjustment to Rosin-Rammler-Bennet (RRB) and Gates-Gaudin-Schuhmann (GGS) granulometric distribution models. Both RRB and GGS models regressed well to the experimental data, presenting correlation coefficient values were extremely close between them approximately 0.99. The PSD’s results indicated that 65.97% dry aggregates and 67.68% wet aggregates had a particle size with mean diameter > 0.0050 mm; a similar behavior of the grain-size distributions presented by dry and wet aggregates; and a tiny presence of fine particles natural in the analyzed ore sample. The results suggested the suitability of the methodology to predict the grain-size performance the verdete ore beyond to show itself as a contribution to the enriching of the mineral characterization of the studied rock, as a potassium potential source for the mineral processing Brazilian industry.
Bound state solutions of the Schrödinger equation with energy-dependent molecular Kratzer potential via asymptotic iteration method
Authors: Ikot Akpan Ndem , Okorie Uduakobong , Ngiagian Alalibo Thompson , Onate Clement Atachegbe , Edet Collins Okon , Akpan Ita Okon , Amadi Precious Ogbonda
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we obtained the exact bound state energy spectrum of the Schrödinger equation with energy dependent molecular Kratzer potential using asymptotic iteration method (AIM). The corresponding wave function expressed in terms of the confluent hypergeometric function was also obtained. As a special case, when the energy slope parameter in the energy-dependent molecular Kratzer potential is set to zero, then the well-known molecular Kratzer potential is recovered. Numerical results for the energy eigenvlaues are also obtained for different quantum states, in the presence and absence of the energy slope parameter. These results are discussed extensively using graphical representation. Our results are seen to agree with the results in literature.
Body, Space, and Sensations in Edgar Allan Poe’s “A Predicament”
Authors: Kao Justine Shu-Ting
Published: January 2020

This paper aims to examine the sensationalism of Blackwood’s Magazine as evident in Poe’s tale “A Predicament” and how Poe disengages from the tradition of Blackwoods. On the one hand, Poe conflates Psyche Zenobia’s adventure into a Gothic Cathedral with the Blackwood’s sensationalistic experience, which treats vehement sensations as the prime condition for stimulating the mind’s engagement with a spiritual vision of a world beyond the material world. On the other, Poe’s tale disengages itself from the tradition of Blackwood’s Magazine: Zenobia loses her sensations altogether in the quest for final knowledge and there is no return to her real life. This paper will further look at the mutilated/deformed body in Poe’s “A Predicament” as a body in pain, or without pain, through which the mind engages its imagination. It will also discuss how Poe, through Zenobia’s gaze and speculation upon a sublime cathedral, installs an aesthetic appreciation that distances an imaginary space from reality and facilitates self-mesmerism through which Zenobia is grounded in the earthly world, both physically and spiritually.
From tradition to modernity
Authors: Salami Ali , Pirayesh Farnoosh
Published: January 2020

The paper explores the liberating power of Bhabha’s concept of hybridity in Manju Kapur’s novel The Immigrant. By concentrating on Nina’s immigration to Canada, the novel addresses her early affliction due to the cultural clash between the East and West, tradition and modernity, her assimilation problems, as well as her gradual assimilation, her in-betweenness, transformation in her roles and identity, and survival in the host world. She opens a space in-between the home and host culture, mediates between them, and becomes the citizen of two worlds; she thus enters the third space, i.e. she stands in-between two cultures prioritizing neither the home nor the host culture but the middle ground and emerges as a hybrid who occupies the in-between space and develops a double vision. Using Homi Bhabha’s insights, this study seeks to demonstrate that being positioned in the third space, i.e. moving beyond the polarities and challenging the fixedness of identity and experiencing in-betweenness – being neither one nor the other, might pave the way for her liberation. The paper is to show that Nina is neither one nor the other, i.e. neither a traditional nor a modern woman but both, simultaneously transcending and reconciling the tradition and modernity.
Factores de riesgo cardiovascular y estilos de vida de estudiantes universitarios
Authors: Padilla-García Clara Inés , Jaimes-Valencia Mary Luz , Fajardo-Nates Socorro , Ramos-Franco Ana María
Published: January 2020

Introducción: Se reconoce que los principales factores de riesgo de las enfermedades cardiovasculares son: la obesidad, la hipertensión arterial, el consumo de tabaco, la falta de actividad física y la alimentación poco saludable, entre otros. Las enfermedades cardiovasculares cada vez se hacen más frecuentes a temprana edad considerándose un problema de salud pública que afecta al sujeto que la padece, a su familia y al sistema de salud por el incremento de costos que acarrea al sistema. Objetivo: Determinar los factores de riesgo cardiovascular y los estilos de vida en estudiantes de una universidad privada de Bucaramanga, Colombia. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo observacional de carácter transversal. La muestra fue no asignada al azar sino por conveniencia, constituida por 323 estudiantes que participaron de una jornada de salud en una universidad privada de la ciudad de Bucaramanga, Colombia. Se administró un cuestionario que permitió valorar las características sociodemográficas, factores de riesgo cardiovascular y estilos de vida de los estudiantes universitarios. Resultados: La edad media de la población estudiada fue de 20 años, siendo el 73.7% mujeres y el 26.3% hombres.  En general, el 13.8% de los estudiantes se encontraron con sobrepeso y el 5% en obesidad. El 1.9% presentó pre hipertensión sistólica y el 2.2% pre hipertensión diastólica. Por género, el 24.8% de las mujeres y 7.3% de hombres presentaron circunferencia abdominal en riesgo. De los estudiantes, el 49.8% tenían antecedentes familiares de enfermedad crónica. El 13% de los estudiantes señalaron haber sufrido de enfermedad crónica como diabetes, hipertensión y cardiopatía. Respecto a los estilos de vida, el 46.7% de los estudiantes refirieron consumir alcohol, el 9.28% tenían el hábito del consumo de tabaco y el 41.8% refirieron no tener actividad física durante la semana. Conclusiones: Existen factores de riesgo cardiovascular presentes en los estudiantes universitarios. Dentro de los más relevantes riesgos modificables están la obesidad y el sedentarismo que con un adecuado acompañamiento podrían disminuir. A pesar de que la mayoría de los jóvenes universitarios entran en el rango de adulto joven, se encuentran casos de hipertensión. [Padilla CI, Jaimes ML, Fajardo S, Ramos AM. Factores de riesgo cardiovascular y estilos de vida de estudiantes universitarios. MedUNAB 2014; 17(2):81-90]
Perjanjian Bantuan Timbal Balik dalam Masalah Pidana Antara Republik Indonesia dan Republik Islam Iran
Authors: Firdaus Firdaus
Published: January 2020

Perkembangan ilmu pengetahuan dan teknologi terutama perkembangan transportasi, komunikasi, dan informasi mengakibatkan satu negara dengan negara lain seakan-akan tanpa batas sehingga perpindahan orang atau barang dari satu negara ke negara lain dilakukan dengan mudah dan cepat. Perkembangan ini menimbulkan dampak hukum pidana terhadap kejahatan dan modus operandinya semakin canggih sehingga penanggulangannya diperlukan kerjasama antara negara yang satu dengan negara lainnya. Upaya mengatasi permasalahan tersebut dengan menjalin hubungan bilateral yang baik dengan negara-negara yang memiliki kepentingan yang sama, salah satunya dengan melakukan kerjasama bantuan timbal balik dan masalah pidana. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan yuridis normatif dan yuridis empiris, tulisan ini untuk menjawab  apa  urgensi yang dilakukan  ratifikasi dan perjanjian bantuan timbal balik dalam masalah pidana, dan untuk melihat apa substansi yang diatur dalam perjanjian bantuan timbal balik dalam masalah pidana. Tulisan difokuskan pada urgensi untuk mendukung pelaksanaan pengesahan bantuan timbal balik masalah pidana terkait pemberantasan narkotika dan tindakan terorisme dan substansi yang diatur dalam perjanjian bantuan timbal balik dalam masalah pidana. Rekomendasi dari tulisan ini, dapat segera meratifikasi perjanjian dengan ketentuan hukum nasional yang berlaku, dan penguatan beberapa lembaga untuk mendukung pelaksanaan bantuan timbal balik hukum pidana antara Republik Indonesia dan Republik Islam Iran.
PERANAN GOOD UNIVERSITY GOVERNANCE TERHADAP KINERJA PERGURUAN TINGGI
Authors: Machmuddah Zaky , Suhartono Entot
Published: January 2020

Finding emperical evidence dealt with good university governance to higher education performance is the main purpose of the current research. Survey is method used in the research. Sample used in the research is higher education lecturers in Semarang. Sampling technique used is accidental sampling. Multiple linier regression with SPSS program is used to analyse data. Findings of the research are analised and described so that they can give information related to research variable. Research findings proved that transparancy, responsibility and fairness signifcantly affected to higher education performance. Therefore,� for accountability and independency variables, the relation was not significant. The research findings gave empirical evidence that good university governance had effect on higher education performance. Therefore, higher education institutions should apply good university governance to improve their performance.
Public Key Cryptosystem Based on Polynomial Composition
Authors: Maxrizal Maxrizal , Prayanti Baiq Desy Aniska
Published: January 2020

The public key cryptosystem is an extension of an asymmetric key cryptosystem. The public key cryptosystems have been developed based on the concepts of matrix, polynomial and polynomial decomposition. In this study, we will introduce the public key cryptosystem over polynomial composition. This research is a literature study. The results show that the polynomial composition can be used in public-key cryptosystems by modifying special functions to apply commutative properties.