bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Foucault de norte ao sul. Entrevista com Carolina de Souza Noto e Ernani Pinheiro Chaves
Authors: De Sá Ribeiro Aymoré Debora , Zirbel Ilze
Published: September 2019

A Revista PRACS recebeu, durante o ano de 2018, uma série de trabalhos acadêmicos para compor o seu Dossiê Biopoder: reflexões interdisciplinares sobre o controle. Para completar o material deste dossiê, convidamos uma pesquisadora e um pesquisador brasileiros, especialistas em Foucault e lecionando em pontos distintos do país, para responderem algumas questões relacionadas aos temas que permearam os artigos recebidos. A Dra. Caroline de Souza Noto, professora do Departamento de Filosofia da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina e o Dr. Ernani Pinheiro Chaves é professor titular da Faculdade de Filosofia da Universidade Federal do Pará. Ambos receberam cinco questões por e-mail formuladas por Débora Aymoré e Ilze Zirbel, antecedidas por um pequeno texto de introdução ao tema geral do dossiê. Dispuseram-se, então, a refletir sobre elas e respondê-las. Em seguida, as suas respostas foram organizadas de maneira conjunta pelas entrevistadoras para essa publicação.
Comparison of the Parenting styles, Quality of life, and Family Functioning between Dual Career and Single Career Families in Yazd City
Authors: ZareeiMahmoodabad Hassan , Modaresi Mahdiyeh , BarzegarBafroei Kazem
Published: September 2019

Introduction: Women are interested in social roles along with their maternal role. According to mothers' role in parenting style, family functioning, and quality of life, we compared the  parenting style, quality of life, and family function between dual career and single career families in Yazd City.
Methods:  This casual-comparative study was conducted over 304 dual career and single carrier families in three regions of Yazd selected using available sampling method. The study tools included parenting style questionnaire, quality of life questionnaire, and family function questionnaire.  Data were analyzed using independent t-test.
Results: The results indicated that quality of life and its dimensions caused no significant difference in dual career and single career families. In the field of family functioning, the only difference was in roles’ dimension, which was significantly different between dual career and single career  families. This difference was in favor of dual career families. Regarding the parenting style, the only significant difference was related to the authoritative style this difference was in favor of single career families.
Conclusion: According to the results, no significant difference was observed between the dual career and single career families in the style of parenting, family functioning, and quality of life.
The Relationship between Spiritual Health and Use of Virtual Social Networks in High-School Students of Firozabad, Fars Province
Authors: Morowatisharifabad Mohammad Ali , Hosseini Narjess , Behzadifar Meysam , Behzadifar Meysam , Rastian Mohammad , Fazelpour Shokooh
Published: September 2019

Introduction: In different societies, paying attention to spiritual dimension of health has been emphasized as one of the health dimensions according to the WHO. The study aimed to determine the relation between spiritual health and use of virtual social networks among high school students in Firouzabad, Fars province in 2017.
Methods: In the cross-sectional study, 380 students (16-18 years) were selected using the multistage stratified sampling. Data collection instruments included demographic information questionnaire, virtual social network use questionnaire, and Poltzea and Ellisons questionnaire of spiritual health assessment.  
To analyze the data, analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficient, and logistic regression tests were used.
Results: The mean score of spiritual health was 83.98 ± 17.01 and had a significant correlation with education level (p<0.001) and internet use time (p=0.02). A significant correlation was found between virtual social networks use and monthly income, (r=0.17) religions health (r= -0.64), individual health (r= -0.11), and total score of spiritual health (r= -0.09). Most of the students (65.77%) had internet access and the most frequently used virtual social network was WathsApp. Logisitc regression revealed that the mean score of desirable spiritual health among students who used virtual social networks for 11-20 , 21-30, and >30 hours per week were 0.83 , 0.72, and 0.27 times lower than the students who used these networks less than 10 hours a week.
Conclusion: Internet access was higher in male students than female and the spiritual health was at the average level in both genders. Regarding the effect of virtual social networks on students and its increasing expansion, the issue must be considered by authorities.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice about Food Hygiene and Safety among Food Catering Staff in Yazd
Authors: Marzban Ameneh , Rahmanian Vahid , Shirdeli Mehrnoosh , Barzegaran Mehran
Published: September 2019

Introduction: Observance of food hygiene and safety by the staff working in the food supply and distribution sector is one of the most important factors in prevention of foodborne diseases. However, considering the inadequate knowledge and inappropriate performance of the staff, we are faced with many epidemics of food poisoning. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practice of food supply and distribution companies in Yazd.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 126 employees working in 15 food catering centers in Yazd City in 2018. Census sampling method was applied to collect data by a researcher-made questionnaire. In this questionnaire, the items were about the participants' background demographic information, knowledge, attitude, and practice in the field of food health, which was designed according to previous studies. Data were analyzed using SPSS24, T-test, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation coefficient.
Results: The employees' mean scores of knowledge, attitude, and practice were 10.08 ± 5.11, 24.31 ± 8.37 and 8.91 ± 6.50, respectively. A significant difference was observed between the mean and standard deviation of the participants' knowledge and education level (P = 0.00). Furthermore, a positive and significant correlation was observed between the participants' knowledge, attitude, and practice.
Conclusion: It is necessary to provide individuals with practical and continuous training programs by experienced specialists. Moreover, food catering staff should be motivated to adhere to the principles of personal hygiene and food and their health knowledge should be updated.
The Effect of Islamic Culture on Organizational Citizenship Behavior among Nurses of Yazd University of Medical Sciences Hospitals
Authors: Dehghani Tafti Abbasali , Dehghani Mohammad Hossein , Pourshariati Fatemeh , Shiravand Babak
Published: September 2019

Introduction: The organizational citizenship behavior in hospitals is of great importance since it enhances positive relationships between employees and their involvement in organizational activities. On the other hand, culture is one of the main and major components of the organization, which has a direct effect on promoting the organization's activities. In this regard, rich Islamic culture with its pure concepts has a great role in shaping and refining people's behaviors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Islamic culture on organizational citizenship behavior among nurses in hospitals of Yazd University of Medical Sciences.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 264 staff of the selected hospitals affiliated with Yazd University of Medical Sciences was selected using two-stage sampling method. The data collection tool was a valid and reliable questionnaire consisting of three sections: demographic information, a 22-item organizational citizenship behavior questionnaire with 5 dimensions, and the Islamic culture questionnaire, which should be answered using a 5-point Likert scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS 21 and SmartPLS software.
Results: Among the dimensions of organizational citizenship behavior, the highest mean and standard deviation were related to conscientiousness dimension (3.10±0.69). The total mean and standard deviation was calculated as 2.99±0.57 for the component of organizational citizenship behavior. The mean and standard deviation of Islamic culture was 2.89±0.53. According to the data analysis algorithm in PLS method, by examining the significant coefficients of t for each path, Islamic culture had significant effect on all components of the organizational citizenship behavior.
Conclusion: Considering the impact of Islamic culture on organizational citizenship behavior, various cultural programs such as cultural training courses, cultural seminars, and cultural events are suggested to promote Islamic culture in hospitals
EDITORIAL
Authors: Laborda Jesus Garcia
Published: September 2019

It is the great honor for us to edit proceedings of â€œ11th World Conference on Educational Sciences (WCES-2019)â€ held on 07-10 February 2019, at the Milano Novotel Milano Nord Caâ€™ Granda Convention Center, Italy. This privileged scientific event has contributed to the field of educational sciences and research for eleven years.

As the guest editors of this issue, we are glad to see variety of articles focusing on the curriculum and instruction, educational technology, educational administration, guidance and counselling, educational planning, measurement and evaluation, learning psychology, developmental psychology, instructional design, learning and teaching, special education, distance  education,  lifelong  learning,  mathematics  education,  social  sciences  teaching,  science education, language learning and teaching, human resources in education, teacher training, pre-school education, primary school education, secondary school education, vocational education, college and higher education, learner needs in the 21st century, the role of education in globalization, human rights education, democracy education, innovation  and  change  in  education,  new  learning  environments, environmentaleducation,  professional development, nursery education, health education, sport and physical education, multi-cultural education, mobile learning,  music education, art education, history education and etc. 

Furthermore,  the  conference  is  getting  more international  each  year,  which  is  an  indicator  that  it  is  getting worldwide known and recognized. Scholars from all over the world contributed to the conference. Special thanks are  to  all  the reviewers, the members  of  the  international  editorial  board,  the publisher,  and  those involved in  technical processes. We would like to thank all who contributed to in every process to make this issue actualized. A total of  145 full papers or abstracts were submitted for this conference and each paper has been peer reviewed by the reviewers specialized in the related field. At the end of the review process, a total of  50 high quality research  papers were selected and accepted for publication.

I hope that you will enjoy reading the papers.

 

Guest Editors

Prof. Dr. JesÃºs GarcÃ­a Laborda,

Univesity of Alcala , Spain
An analysis of achievement goal orientations and chemistry motivations of students within the structural equation modelling and an evaluation of the influencing factors
Authors: Alkan Fatma , Yucel Aysem Seda
Published: September 2019

The aim of this study based on this view is to investigate the relationship between the achievement-goal orientations of students during learning and their motivation levels towards learning chemistry. The study was designed in the relational survey model. The sample of the research consists of 688 high school students. In the research, the scale of achievement goal orientations and chemistry motivation questionnaire have been used as data collection tools. According to the structural equation modelling results, the fit indexes of the model are at the levels of good fit and acceptable fit. There is a positive and substantive link between achievement goal orientation and chemistry motivation. According to Manova results of the research, it has been determined that sex has a substantive impact on the performance-approach and performance-avoidance sub-dimensions of the achievement goal orientations scale and the internal motivation-personal convenience, external motivation, self-determination-self-sufficiency and anxiety of evaluation sub-dimensions of the chemistry motivation questionnaire.

Keywords: Achievement goal orientation, chemistry motivation, structural equation modelling, multivariate analysis of variance.
Psychometric Properties of the Nurses' Environmental Awareness Tool
Authors: Schenk Elizabeth , Corbett Cynthia F. , Barbosa-Leiker Celestina , Postma Julie , Butterfield Patricia
Published: September 2019

Background and Purpose: Nurses are committed to practice in an environmentally safe and healthy manner. However, nursing practice contributes significant negative impacts to the natural environment. We analyzed the psychometric properties of the Nurses Environmental Awareness Tool (NEAT), composed of 6 subscales, measuring awareness of environmental impacts and their health risks and ecological behaviors at work and home. Methods: The NEAT was given to 689 nurses via online survey software. Exploratory factor analyses and Cronbach's alpha were examined for each of the 6 subscales. Results: The 6 subscales resulted in one-factor models with items demonstrating adequate reliability (α > .67). Conclusions: The NEAT is a psychometrically sound scale to measure nurses' awareness and behavior related to environmental impacts of nursing practice.
Revising the Resistiveness to Care Scale
Authors: Jablonski-Jaudon Rita A. , Winstead Vicki , Jones-Townsend Corteza , Azuero Andres , Mahoney Ellen , Kolanowski Ann M.
Published: September 2019

Background and Purpose: The Resistiveness to Care Scale for Dementia of the Alzheimer's Type was developed to quantify care-resistant behavior. The purpose of this article is to explain how the instrument was modified and tested in two clinical studies that examined interventions to improve the oral hygiene of persons with dementia who resist care. Methods: After pilot testing, the revised instrument (RTC-r) was used in 7 facilities (N = 83 residents). Systematic training procedures were implemented to preserve reliability. Results: Clinical validity was confirmed throughout the pilot and interventional studies. Reliability was assessed using inter-rater reliability, which ranged from 0.87 (p < .001) to 1.0 (p < .001) across 2,328 mouth care observations. Conclusions: The RTC-r validly and reliably measures care-resistant behavior in persons with dementia.
The Production of Space Through Land Reclamation
Authors: Kern Niclas
Published: September 2019

This dissertation argues that land reclamation has become geopolitical. Land reclamation has added a new dimension to international relations and this dimension cannot be ignored, for it touches upon our fundamental understanding of state territory and spatial practice. Drawing on Stuart Elden and Henri Lefebvre, territory is understood as a set of political technologies that produce different dimensions of our modern conception of territorial space. Land reclamation operates as such a territorial technology and alters our understanding of maritime space in contemporary geopolitics and international law. Two case studies will explicate this development. The first study will investigate coastal reclamation in Singapore and its effects for the city-state’s international relations. The second study will analyse Chinese reclamation works in the disputed region of the South China Sea. Both investigations will approach these activities with a focus on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea as the international juridical space of territory. In conclusion, this dissertation claims that the material and conceptual production of space triggered by advancements in land reclamation technology are reshaping territorial state practice and the corresponding legal framework of maritime space.
Kelly, Review of Psychopolitics: Neoliberalism & New Technologies of Power By Byung-Chul Han
Authors: Kelly James F.
Published: September 2019

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Happy Birthday Jürgen Habermas
Authors: Finlayson James Gordon
Published: September 2019

[No abstract] First paragraph: Habermas turned ninety on June 18th 2019. Over the last six decades he’s been Germany’s foremost social theorist, philosopher, public intellectual, and journalist. His political writings currently stretch to twelve volumes. Cue a host of different public events across Germany celebrating his life and work. Cue also the usual paeans and panegyrics, and, as anyone who has followed the on-line discussion will know, some remarkably harsh criticism.
Evaluation of a Mesoscale Thermal Actuator in Open and Closed Operating Cycles
Authors: Burugupally Sindhu Preetham
Published: September 2019

Thermal-based actuators are known for generating large force and displacement strokes at mesoscale (millimeter) regime. In particular, two-phase thermal actuators are found to benefit from the scaling laws of physics at mesoscale to offer large force and displacement strokes; but they have low thermal efficiencies. As an alternative, a combustion-based thermal actuator is proposed and its performance is studied in both open and closed cycle operations. Through a physics-based lumped-parameter model, we investigate the behavior and performance of the actuator using a spring-mass-damper analogy and taking an air standard cycle approach. Three observations are reported: (1) the mesoscale actuator can generate peak forces of up to 400 N and displacement strokes of about 16 cm suitable for practical applications; (2) an increase in heat input to the actuator results in increasing the thermal efficiency of the actuator for both open and closed cycles; and (3) for a specific heat input, both the open and closed cycle operations respond differently \textemdash different stroke lengths, peak pressures, and thermal efficiencies.
Neural Image Analysis and Electron Microscopy to Detect and Describe Selected Quality Factors of Fruit and Vegetable Spray-Dried Powders. Case Study: Chokeberry Powder
Authors: Przybył Krzysztof , Gawałek Jolanta , Koszela Krzysztof , Przybył Jacek , Rudzinska Magdalena , Gierz Łukasza , Domian Ewa
Published: September 2019

The study concentrates on researching possibilities of using computer image analysis and neural modeling in order to assess selected quality discriminants of spray-dried chokeberry powder. The aim of the paper is quality identification of chokeberry powders on account of their highest dying power, the highest bioactivity as well as technologically satisfying looseness of powder. The article presents neural models with vision technique backed up by devices such as digital camera as well as electron microscope. Reduction in size of input variables with PCA has influence on improving the processes of learning data sets, thus increasing effectiveness of identifying chokeberry fruit powders included in digital pictures, which is shown in the results of the conducted research. The effectiveness of image recognition are presented by classifying abilities as well as low Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), for which the best results are achieved with typology of network type Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP). The selected networks type MLP are characterized by the highest degree of classification at 0.99 and RMSE at 0.11 at most at the same time.
Ice-Crystal Nucleation in Water: Thermodynamic Driving Force and Surface Tension
Authors: Hellmuth Olaf , Schmelzer Juern W. P. , Feistel Rainer
Published: September 2019

A recently developed thermodynamic theory for the determination of the driving force of crystallization and the crystal–melt surface tension is applied to the ice–water system employing the new Thermodynamic Equation of Seawater TEOS-10. The deviations of approximative formulations of the driving force and the surface tension from the exact reference properties are quantified, showing that the proposed simplifications are applicable for low to moderate undercooling and pressure differences to the respective equilibrium state of water. The TEOS-10 based predictions of the ice crystallization rate revealed pressure-induced deceleration of ice nucleation with an increasing pressure, and acceleration of ice nucleation by pressure decrease. This result is in, at least, qualitative agreement with laboratory experiments and computer simulations. Both the temperature and pressure dependencies of the ice–water surface tension were found to be in line with the le Chatelier–Braun principle, in that the surface tension decreases upon increasing degree of metastability of water (by decreasing temperature and pressure), which favors nucleation to move the system back to a stable state. The reason for this behavior is discussed. Finally, the Kauzmann temperature of the ice–water system was found to amount TK=116K, which is far below the temperature of homogeneous freezing. The Kauzmann pressure was found to amount pK=-212MPa, suggesting favor of homogeneous freezing upon exerting a negative pressure on the liquid. In terms of thermodynamic properties entering the theory, the reason for the negative Kauzmann pressure is the higher mass density of water in comparison to ice at the melting point.
Health Risks Associated with the Use of Water Mist Systems as a Cooling Intervention in Public Places in the Pilbara Region of Western Australia
Authors: Masaka Edmore , Reed Sue , Ooosthuizen Jacques , Davidson Margaret
Published: September 2019

The exposure of people to opportunistic premise plumbing pathogens (OPPPs) such as Legionella, Mycobacterium and Pseudomonas in aerosolised water has been linked to opportunistic infections. Water mist systems (WMS) that are used to cool public places by flash evaporation of tiny water aerosols are gaining prominence in hot climatic regions of Australia. Their potential to be colonised by OPPPs has not been adequately studied. The public health impact of OPPPs is significant, as Legionella caused 63% of waterborne disease case hospitalisations in the United States associated with drinking water systems during 2013–2014, and the incidence of Mycobacterium avium over the same period was 647 cases per 100,000. As WMS are part of premise plumbing, they have structural characteristics that can promote biofilm formation, as well as the presence of free-living amoebae (FLA), low residual disinfection levels, elevated water temperatures and oligotrophic conditions, all of which can promote OPPP inhabitancy. This review highlights the potential public health risks of using WMS as a cooling intervention in public places and advocates for their regulation in places of public assembly and entertainment.
Stream Flow and Rainfall Trend Analysis of the Ssezibwa Catchment
Authors: Enos Bahati Musiime , Lawal Abdul Qayoom Tunji , Peter Benjamin Aina , Matovu Solomon
Published: September 2019

The study focused on two climatic variables i.e. precipitation and stream flow for analysing change in trend of rainfall for the River Ssezibwa Catchment area and stream flow of River Ssezibwa. This Catchment is found in the districts of Mukono and Buikwe in Uganda. In this area agriculture is majorly dependent on rainfall and irrigation on a small scale. However, rainfall occurrence has become unpredictable over the past few years as result of the changes in patterns of weather. This has caused severe effects on the agricultural cropping system as well as caused negative effects on the natural water resources. Stream flow data of 57 years (1960 – 2017) and rainfall data for 35 years (1982 – 2017) on a daily basis was analysed to find out the trend and detect change point. Trend analysis was done by using the non-parametric analysis while the change point detection was carried out by using the Pettit test (1979).Magnitude of trend for the time series data was carried out using Sen’s Slope estimator and Mann – Kendall test was done to determine the trend. Results from the statistical analysis highlighted that; for stream flow the trend was generally positive and change point detected to be in the year 2000 while for rainfall data analysis indicated that the trend was predominantly negative and change point was in the year 1998.
Leading Schools towards Sustainability. Fields of Action and Management Strategies for Principals
Authors: Müller Ulrich , Lude Armin , Hancock Dawson R.
Published: September 2019

Education is expected to support the development of a more sustainable way of thinking, working, and living. Although there is a broad range of literature on Education for Sustainable development (ESD), the role of principals in the implementation of sustainability and ESD in schools has rarely been taken into consideration. However, based on the results of school effectiveness research, one can assume that school principals exert a significant influence on ESD. Sustainability is a leadership issue. When a school aims at integrating sustainability and ESD, the principal plays a pivotal role. She or he has to support the endeavor wholeheartedly and credibly, organize a participative process of school development, push ahead sustainability and ESD in the daily life of the school, support teaching staff in the application of ESD, involve students and offer them opportunities to launch their own initiatives. This article seeks to support principals in leading their schools towards sustainability. Four stages of the integration of Sustainability and ESD in a school are defined. For each of these stages, a number of actions and management strategies are suggested and explained in detail.
Congenital Bronchopulmonary Foregut Malformation: Systematic review of the literature
Authors: Yang Gang , Chen Lina , Xu Chang , Yuan Miao , Li Yuan
Published: September 2019

Background : Congenital bronchopulmonary foregut malformation (CBPFM) is a rare congenital malformation involving both the digestive and respiratory system. Early diagnosis is difficult, and delayed recognition may result in considerable complications. The aim of the study was to identify and analyze the clinical characteristics and radiological features of CBPFMs.
Methods : A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Ovid database, EMBASE were searched for relevant publications to identify all published case-reports of CBPFM since 1992. Data about the demography, clinical presentation, pathology, imaging features, treatment and prognosis were collected.
Results : Sixty-one cases were included in our study. Cases were aged from 1 day to 59 years with the majority aged 3 years or younger. The most common type was group III (37.7%), followed by group II (29.5%)，group I (27.9%) and group IV (4.9%). The presentations included respiratory distress (32.8%), cough/choking following food intake and other presentations associated respiratory infection. Thirty-eight cases (62.3%) were diagnosed by upper gastrointestinal series (UGI). Misdiagnosis was common. Eight cases (13.1%) of the included cases died.
Conclusions : Early recognition and extensive delineation of the anatomy of CBPFM are important to correct these anomalies successfully. UGI is the first choice to confirm the abnormal bronchus communicating with the esophagus. Resection of abnormal pulmonary tissue, lobe or even unilateral lung is preferred. Reconstruction procedures are feasible in selected patients.
Acceptability of the BATHE technique amongst GPs and frequently attending patients in primary care: a nested qualitative study
Authors: Thomas Clare , Cramer Helen , Jackson Sue , Kessler David , Metcalfe Chris , Record Charlie , Barnes Rebecca K.
Published: September 2019

Background

BATHE is a brief psychosocial intervention designed for physician use in patient consultations. The technique has gained some international recognition, but there is currently limited research evidence to demonstrate its acceptability and benefits to patient care. We conducted a pilot cluster randomised controlled trial and feasibility study to explore the use of BATHE as a key component of a person-focused intervention to improve the care of frequent attending patients in UK primary care.Methods

A nested qualitative interview study conducted within a pilot trial. The trial took place in six general practices in the South West of England. Eligible patients had been identified as being in the top 3% of attenders in the previous 12 months. General practitioners (GPs) were trained to use BATHE during a one-hour initial training session, and two top-up trainings which included feedback on implementation fidelity. GPs were asked to use BATHE with their study patients for a period of 12 months. 34 GPs were trained and documented using BATHE in a total of 577 consultations with eligible patients during the intervention period. At the end of the intervention period, GPs and study patients from the intervention practices were invited to take part in an interview. Interviews were semi-structured, audio-recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis was used.Results

Eleven GPs and 16 patients took part in post-intervention interviews. Benefits of using BATHE included making consultations more person-centred, challenging assumptions that the GP knew what was going on for the patient and their main concerns, and supporting self-management. Difficulties reported included changing existing consultation habits, identifying appropriate consultations in which to use BATHE, and organisational constraints.Conclusions

The study suggests that using BATHE is both acceptable and beneficial but also highlighted some of the difficulties GPs had incorporating BATHE into routine practice. Strategies to reduce these difficulties are needed before the extent of the potential benefits of BATHE can be fully assessed.
Potential biological control of the pupal stage of the European grapevine moth Lobesia botrana by the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria pseudobassiana in the winter season in Chile
Authors: Altimira Fabiola , Barra Nathalia De La , Rebufel Patricia , Soto Sylvana , Soto Rodrigo , Estay Patricia , Vitta Nancy , Tapia Eduardo
Published: September 2019

Objective: Lobesia botrana, the European grapevine moth, affects Vitis vinifera L. and other species of economic importance in a number of countries through damage caused by its larvae in berries and associated secondary diseases such as Botrytis cinerea . Control of the moth in urban areas is difficult due to poor chemical management of infested plants in houses. Additionally, in winter, L. botrana is in its pupal stage covered with a cocoon that prevents the penetration of chemical pesticides. For this reason, the objective of this work was to control the pupal stage with a formulation based on the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria pseudobassiana in urban areas.
Results: The strain RGM 1747 was identified as B. pseudobassiana by multilocus sequence analysis . The biocontrol activity of this formulated fungus against the infestation of vines with breeding pupae without cocoons showed 100% infection 21 days after inoculation under winter conditions. Finally, the biocontrol activity of the formulated fungus against natural infestations of L. botrana in winter in urban areas reached an efficacy of 51%. This result suggests that the B. pseudobassiana formulation is able to penetrate the cocoon and contributes to the integrated pest management of L. botrana .
Utilization, Equity and Determinants of Full Antenatal Care in India: Analysis from the National Family Health Survey 4
Authors: Kumar Gunjan , Choudhary Tarun Shankar , Srivast Akanksha , Updhyay Ravi Praksah , Taneja Sunita , Bahl Rajiv , Martines Jose , Bhan Maharaj Kishan , Bhandari Nita , Mazumder Sarmila
Published: September 2019

Objectives: We examined the utilisation, equity and determinants of full antenatal care (ANC), defined as 4 or more antenatal visits, at least one tetanus toxoid (TT) injection and consumption of iron folic acid (IFA) for a minimum of 100 days, in India.
Methods: We analysed a sample of 190,898 women from India's National Family Health Survey 4. Concentration curves and concentration index were used to assess equity in full ANC utilisation. Multivariable logistic regression model was used to examine the factors associated with full ANC utilization.
Results: In India, 21% of pregnant women utilised full ANC, ranging from 2.3% - 65.9% across states. Overall, 51.6% had 4 or more ANC visits, 30.8% consumed IFA for atleast 100 days, and 91.1% had one or more doses of tetanus toxoid. Registration of pregnancy, utilisation of government’s Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and health insurance coverage were associated with higher odds of full ANC utilisation. Lower maternal education, lower wealth quintile(s), lack of father’s participation during antenatal visits, higher birth order, teenage and unintended pregnancy were associated with lower odds of full ANC utilisation. Full ANC utilisation was inequitable across area of residence, caste and maternal education.
Conclusions: Full ANC utilization in India was inadequate and inequitable. Although half of the women did not receive the minimum recommended ANC visits, the utilisation of TT immunisation was almost universal. The positive association of full ANC with ICDS utilisation and child’s father involvement may be leveraged for increasing the uptake of full ANC. Strategies to address the socio-demographic factors associated with low and inequitable utilisation of full ANC are imperative for strengthening India’s maternal health program.

Key words: Antenatal care, India, NFHS-4
Exploration of shared genetic susceptibility loci between type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis in the Pakistani population
Authors: Author) Muhammad Muaaz Aslam(Former Corresponding , John Peter , Fan Kang-Hsien , Bhatti Attya , Jahangir Sidrah , Feingold Eleanor , Demirci F. Yesim , Author) M. Ilyas Kamboh(New Corresponding
Published: September 2019

Objective Type 1 diabetes (T1D) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are autoimmune diseases. It is known that certain genetic loci and factors that increase the overall autoimmunity risk can be shared among different autoimmune diseases. We sought to replicate seven T1D-related SNPs that have been previously reported to be associated with RA susceptibility in a small set of mixed family-based and case-control Pakistani sample in a relatively large and independent RA case-control sample from the same population. Seven T1D-associted SNPs (GLIS3/rs7020673, BACH2/rs11755527, SKAP2/rs7804356, GDSMB/rs2290400, C6orf173/rs9388489, LOC399716/rs947474 and DLK1-MEG2/rs941576) were genotyped in a large Pakistani RA case-control sample (n=1,959) using TaqMan® SNP genotyping assays. Results None of the tested SNPs showed statistically significant association with RA susceptibility; however, one SNP (GLIS3/rs7020673) showed a trend for association (OR= 0.88, p=7.99E-02). Our study has failed to replicate the previously reported association of seven T1D-associted SNPs with RA risk in a large sample from the same population. Thus, our results do not support a major role of these T1D SNPs in affecting RA susceptibility in the Pakistani population.
Intensive psychotherapy and case management for Karen refugees with Major Depression in primary care: a pragmatic randomized control trial
Authors: Northwood Andrea , Vukovich Maria M , Beckman Alison , Walter Jeffrey P , Josiah Novia , Hudak Leora , Burrows Kathleen O’Donnell , Letts James P , Danner Christine C
Published: September 2019

Background: Despite an unparalleled global refugee crisis, there are almost no studies in primary care addressing real-world conditions and longer courses of treatment that are typical when resettled refugees present to their physician with critical psychosocial needs and complex symptoms. Our aim was to study the effects of a year of psychotherapy and case management in a primary care setting on common symptoms and functioning for Karen refugees (a newly arrived population in the study location) with depression.

Methods: A pragmatic parallel-group randomized control trial was conducted at two primary care clinics with large resettled Karen refugee patient populations, with simple random allocation to one year of either: (1) intensive psychotherapy and case management (IPCM), or (2) care-as-usual (CAU). Eligibility criteria included Major Depression diagnosis, Karen refugee, ages 18-65. IPCM (n=112) received a year of psychotherapy and case management coordinated onsite between the case manager, psychotherapist, and primary care providers; CAU (n=102) received care-as-usual from their primary care clinic, including behavioral health referrals and/or brief onsite interventions. Blinded assessors collected outcomes of mean changes in depression, anxiety, PTSD, pain, and social functioning at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months. Measures included HSCL-25 (depression and anxiety), PDS (PTSD), pain (range of 0-4), and social functioning scales (range of 0-4). Data were analyzed with the intention-to-treat principle.

Results: Among 214 randomized participants, 193 completed a baseline and follow up assessment (90.2%). IPCM patients showed significant improvements in depression, PTSD, anxiety, and pain symptoms and in social functioning at 3, 6, and 12 months, with magnitude of improvement increasing over time. CAU patients did not show significant improvements. The largest mean differences observed between groups were in depression (difference, 5.5, 95% CI, 3.9 to 7.1, P<.001) and basic needs/safety (difference, 5.4, 95% CI, 3.8 to 7.0, P<.001).

Conclusions: Adult Karen refugees with depression benefited from intensive psychotherapy and case management coordinated and delivered under usual conditions in primary care. Intervention effects strengthened at each interval, suggesting robust recovery is possible.

Trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT03788408. Registered 20 Dec 2018. Retrospectively registered.
Keywords: Refugees, Depression, Primary care, PTSD, Basic needs, Case management
Individualized PEEP titration guided by intratidal compliance profile analysis improves regional ventilation – a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Weber Jonas , Gutjahr Jan , Schmidt Johannes , Lozano-Zahonero Sara , Borgmann Silke , Schumann Stefan , Wirth Steffen
Published: September 2019

Background

Application of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) improves lung aeration and reduces mechanical stress during mechanical ventilation. Although numerous approaches for PEEP titration have been proposed, there is no accepted strategy to titrate optimal PEEP. By analyzing the intratidal compliance profiles, PEEP may be titrated patient-individually.

Methods

After obtaining informed consent, we measured respiratory system mechanics and regional ventilation in 60 consecutive patients undergoing elective surgery, randomly allocated to the control group (PEEP = 5 cmH 2 O) or the intervention group receiving individually titrated PEEP, guided by intratidal compliance profile analysis. Primary endpoint was the nonlinear intratidal compliance. We further investigated respiratory and hemodynamic variables, regional ventilation and compliance profiles.

Results

Compliance was comparable between control [63.2 (14.0) mL·cmH 2 O -1 ] and intervention group [67.8 (15.9) mL·cmH 2 O -1 , p = 0.271]. Besides PEEP [control: 5.0 (0.0), intervention: 5.8 (1.1) cmH 2 O] respiratory and hemodynamic variables were comparable between the two groups. The compliance profile analysis showed no significant differences between the two groups. Relative thoracic electrical impedance was better maintained in the intervention group (89.3 (19.4) %) than in the control group (78.3 (23.6) %, p < 0.001). No significant differences in dorsal to ventral ventilation distribution was found between the two groups.

Conclusions

Individualized PEEP titration according to bedside compliance profile analysis improves regional ventilation without affecting respiratory and hemodynamic variables negatively and may be a promising approach to patient-individual ventilation setting.
Early prediction of pathologic response to neoadjuvant treatment of breast cancer: use of a cell-loss metric based on serum thymidine kinase 1 and tumour volume
Authors: Tribukait Bernhard , Bergh Jonas , Hatschek Thomas
Published: September 2019

Background After neoadjuvant chemotherapy of breast cancer pathologic complete response (pCR) indicates a favourable prognosis. Among non-selected patients, pCR is, however, achieved in only 10-30%. Early evaluation of tumour response to treatment would facilitate individualized therapy, with ineffective chemotherapy interrupted or changed. The methodology for this purpose is still limited. Tumour imaging and analysis of macromolecules, released from disrupted tumour cells are principle alternatives.Objective To investigate whether a metric of cell-loss, defined as the ratio between serum concentration of thymidine kinase1 (sTK1) (ng x ml -1 ) and tumour volume (cm 3 ), can be used in the early prediction of pathologic response.Methods 104 women with localized breast cancer received neoadjuvant epirubicin/docetaxel in 6 cycles, supplemented with bevacizumab in cycles 3-6. The cell-loss metric was established at baseline (n=104), prior to cycle 2 (n=57) and 48h after cycle 2 (n=104). The performance of the metric was evaluated by association with pathologic tumour response at surgery ̴ 16 weeks later.Results Means for the three points of the metric were 0.007, 0.084 and 0.107 units. For each individual, the baseline value was subtracted from the 48-h value and patients were grouped into quartiles. Means of these were: 0.002, 0.011, 0.030 and 0.357 units. The cell-loss metric was associated with the pCR in the quartiles: 11%, 11%, 23% and 46% (p=0.01). In the 80 patients with remaining tumour, pathologic tumour size was inversely related to the metric (p=0.002). In the subgroup of 57 patients, data obtained prior to the 2nd cycle indicated a higher predictive value than the data obtained 48h after this treatment.Conclusion A cell-loss metric, established by combining serum levels of TK1, released from disrupted tumour cells, and tumour volume, reveal tumour response early during neoadjuvant treatment. The metric appears to reflect a tumour property that differ greatly between patients and determines the sensitivity to cytotoxic treatment. The findings point to the significance of cell loss for the growth rate of tumours. The metric should be considered in personalized oncology and in the evaluation of new therapeutic modalities.
An online knowledge translation intervention increases knowledge of cancer risk factors, but has limited impact on self-reported health behaviours: findings from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Neil-Sztramko Sarah , Belita Emily , Levinson Anthony , Boyko Jennifer , Dobbins Maureen
Published: September 2019

Background Many cancers are preventable through lifestyle modification; however, few adults engage in behaviors that are in line with cancer prevention guidelines. This may be partly due to the mixed messages on effective cancer prevention strategies in popular media. The goal of the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal (the Portal) is to increase access to trustworthy health information. The purpose of this study was to explore if and how knowledge translation strategies to disseminate cancer prevention evidence using the Portal influence participants’ knowledge, intentions and health behaviors related to cancer risk.Methods Adults ≥40 years old, with no cancer history were randomized to a 12-week intervention (weekly emails and social media posts) or control group. Quantitative data on knowledge, intentions and behaviors (physical activity, diet, alcohol consumption and use of tobacco products) were collected at baseline, end of study and three months later. Participant engagement was assessed using Google Analytics, and participant satisfaction through open-ended survey questions and semi-structured interviews.Results Participants (n = 557, mean age 64.9) were predominantly retired (72%) females (81%). Knowledge of cancer prevention guidelines was higher in the intervention group at end of study only. Intentions to follow cancer prevention guidelines increased in both groups, with no between-group differences. Intervention participants reported greater light-intensity physical activity at end of study, and reduced alcohol intake at follow up, but no other between-group differences were found. Overall satisfaction with the Portal and intervention materials was high.Conclusions Dissemination of evidence-based cancer prevention information through the Portal improves knowledge of risk-reduction strategies and may impact self-reported health behaviours in particular groups. Further tailoring of knowledge translation strategies may be needed to see more meaningful change in knowledge and health behaviours.
Acceptance and tolerability of 75 g Pregnancy Oral Glucose Tolerance Test in Pregnancy
Authors: Chaubey Santosh Kumar , Falhammar Henrik
Published: September 2019

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is increasing in prevalence but there are various debatable issues around the diagnostic methods and criteria. Universal screening and 2-hour 75 g pregnancy oral glucose tolerance test (POGTT) is now widely accepted in Australia barring a few places.A questionnaire based study was planned to determine the acceptance and tolerability of 75 g POGTT in pregnant females and compare with 50 g glucose challenge test (GCT).Methods: A questionnaire based prospective study was conducted of the pregnant females attending the combined endocrine and obstetrics antenatal clinic at Gosford Hospital, NSW. The questionnaire tried to analyse the issues encountered by patients with regard to requirement of fasting, duration of the test as well as gastrointestinal and other side effects experienced during the test. Moreover, the respondents were also asked to rate their experience with 75 g POGTT vs. 50 g GCT if they had this in previous or current pregnancy. The attitude of the respondents towards various side effects was explored as well.Results: The completed questionnaire was received from 98 pregnant females attending the clinic. The most inconvenient factors during the POGTT were the taste of Glucogel (54%, 53/98) and duration of the test (45%, 44/98) , followed nausea (42%, 41/98) and requirement for fasting (18 %, 18/98). Almost half (46%, 45/98) had had a 50 g GCT previously. Of those, more had no issues with 50 g GCT compared to 75 g POGTT (76% vs. 47%, P=0.006) and there was a tendency of less issues of the duration of the test (20% vs. 40%, P=0.065).Conclusions: This study, reassuringly found that in spite its complexity and longer duration of test, 75 g POGTT was reasonably well accepted and tolerated.
Effects of resveratrol on cariogenic virulence properties of Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Li Jinheng , Wu Tiantian , Peng Weiwei , Zhu Yaqin
Published: September 2019

Background: Streptococcus mutans is the principal etiological agent of human dental caries. The major virulence factors of S. mutans are acid production, acid tolerance, extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) synthesis and biofilm formation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of resveratrol, a natural compound, on virulence properties of S. mutans . Methods: The effect of resveratrol on acidogenicity was investigated by pH drop and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay, on aciduricity through survival rate at pH 5.0 and F-ATPase assay, on EPS synthesis (including water-soluble polysaccharide and water-insoluble polysaccharide) by quantitative measurement, on biofilm formation by crystal violet assay and structure observation. The expression of related virulence genes was also detected . Results: Resveratrol at sub-MIC levels can significantly decrease acid production, acid tolerance, EPS synthesis and biofilm formation. Related virulence gene expression ( ldh , relA , gtfC , comDE ) was down-regulated with increasing concentrations of resveratrol. Conclusion: Resveratrol has an inhibitory effect on S. mutans cariogenic virulence properties and it represents a promising anticariogenic agent .