bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A resiliência no empreendedorismo feminino
Authors: Da Silva Pablo Marlon Medeiros , El-Aouar Walid Abbas , Da Silva Arthur William Pereira , De Castro Ahiram Brunni Cartaxo Brunni Cartaxo , De Sousa Juliana Carvalho
Published: December 2018

Este artigo visa explorar a relação entre a realidade empreendedora feminina com a resiliência humana. Por meio de uma pesquisa descritiva e explicativa e com abordagem quantitativa realizada com 183 mulheres microempreendedoras individuais de duas cidades do Rio Grande do Norte de diferentes ramos. Os resultados apontaram dificuldades enfrentadas pelas pesquisadas como a crise financeira do país, a concorrência, a inadimplência dos clientes, o problema em conciliar as atividades do negócio com questões familiares e pessoais, dentre outras. Apesar de apresentarem níveis consideráveis de resiliência (83%), esta não apresentou correlações significativas entre suas dimensões e as variáveis sociodemográficas estabelecidas nas hipóteses da pesquisa. O estudo traz contribuições importantes, fornecendo subsídio teórico para uma relação ainda pouco explorada, como também proporciona alguns resultados que contrariam o senso comum e pode instigar pesquisadores a conhecer e aprofundar estudos em outras realidades empreendedoras no Brasil e no mundo.
The burden of methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus infections among hospitalised patients in singapore
Authors: Yang Yong , Lin Ling Moi , Beng Tan Say , Østbye Truls , Earnest Arul , Seong Ng Han
Published: December 2018

Background: MRSA has caused enormous burden to affected Western patients and society. However, only limited study results originated from the Asia-Pacific populations.

Aim: To assess the burden of Methicillin-resistant S. aureus infections (MRSA) among patients from a large tertiary care hospital in Singapore.

Methods: Retrospective study using data from the hospital discharge database to identify patients with MRSA and Methicillin-sensitive S. aureus infections (MSSA) using International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 9th Revision, Australian Modification (ICD-9-AM) codes.  

Findings: Amongst 543,068 hospitalized patients between 2004 and 2010, 8,664(1.6%) were infected with S. Aureus, including 4,868(0.9%) with MRSA. Compared with uninfected controls, MRSA patients had longer hospital stay (geometric mean, GM, 12.2 vs. 3.0 days), higher hospitalization costs (GM, $6294.7 vs. $2295.7), higher in-hospital mortality rate (7.8% vs. 2.8%) and higher 30-day all-cause unscheduled readmission rate (36.3% vs. 23.7%, all p<0.001). The difference still existed after adjustment for age groups, gender, ethnicity, medical management, and Charlson comorbidity index. Similarly, MRSA patients had longer hospital stay, higher hospitalization costs, higher in-hospital mortality rate and 30-day all-cause unscheduled readmission rate compared with patients with MSSA.

Conclusion: MRSA infection was associated with poor clinical outcomes and higher economic burden in this population. Prevention and control measures should be implemented both inside and outside the hospital setting.
Premedication with intranasal dexmedetomidine decreases barbiturate requirement in pediatric patients sedated for magnetic resonance imaging: a retrospective study
Authors: Uusalo Panu , Lehtinen Mirjam , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Manner Tuula , Scheinin Mika , Saari Teijo I.
Published: December 2018

Background: Barbiturates are commonly used in ambulatory sedation of pediatric patients. However, use of barbiturates involve risks of respiratory complications. Dexmedetomidine, a highly selective α2-adrenoceptor agonist, is increasingly used for pediatric sedation. Premedication with intranasal (IN) dexmedetomidine offers a non-invasive and efficient possibility to sedate pediatric patients undergoing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Our hypothesis was that dexmedetomidine would reduce barbiturate requirements in procedural sedation.

Methods: We included 200 consecutive pediatric patients undergoing MRI, and analyzed their hospital records retrospectively. Half of the patients received 3 μg/kg of IN dexmedetomidine (DEX group) 45-60 min before MRI while the rest received only thiopental (THIO group) for procedural sedation. Sedation was maintained with further intravenous thiopental dosing as needed. Thiopental consumption, heart rate (HR) and peripheral oxygen saturation were recorded.

Results: The cumulative thiopental requirement during MRI was (median and interquartile range [IQR]) 4.4 (2.7-6.0) mg/kg/h in the DEX group and 12.4 (9.8-14.8) mg/kg/h in the THIO group (difference 7.9 mg/kg/h, 95% CI 6.8–8.8, P < 0.001). Lowest measured peripheral oxygen saturation remained slightly higher in the DEX group compared to the THIO group (median nadirs and IQR: 97 (95-97) % and 96 (94-97) %, P < 0.001). Supplemental oxygen was delivered to 33 % of the patients in the THIO group compared to 2 % in the DEX group (P < 0.001). The lowest measured HR (mean and SD) was lower (78 (16) bpm) in the DEX group compared to the THIO group (92 (12) bpm) (P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Premedication with IN dexmedetomidine (3 μg/kg) was associated with markedly reduced thiopental dosage needed for efficient procedural sedation for pediatric MRI.
Clinical Characteristics of Patients Hospitalized for Ocular Chemical Injuries in Shanghai from 2012 to 2017
Authors: Li Tao , Jiang BA Bo , Zhou Xiaodong
Published: December 2018

Background: To summarize the clinical characteristics of patients with ocular chemical injuries and evaluate their potential relationship with the visual outcome by analyzing the medical records of these patients from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2017.
Methods: This is a retrospective case series study. Patient data included age, gender, occupational classification, location of ocular chemical injury, initial and final best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), nature and chemical phase, distribution and severity of chemical injury, management methods, and complications. All variables were evaluated for their potential relationship with visual outcome.
Results: A total of 160 patients were hospitalized with ocular chemical injuries. The majority of the patients were factory workers and arrived at the consultation room less than 24 hours after injury. The most common ocular injury setting, classification of severity, causative chemical, chemical phase, and complications were workplace, grade Ⅱ, unknown and mixed substance, liquid, and elevated IOP, respectively. The risk factors for poor final BCDVA were identified as older age, poor initial BCDVA, and irrigation 24 hours after injury (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P = 0.011, respectively).
Conclusion: We elaborate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with ocular chemical injuries in Jinshan District, Shanghai. A comprehensive education program should be established and the use of protective eyewear should be promoted to prevent occupation-related ocular chemical injuries.
Glucocorticoid Induced Paraplegia in a Patient with Intracranial Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: Case Report
Authors: Zhang Hongqi , Ma Yongjie , Lu Jie
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND:
Glucocorticoid inducing paraplegia has been reported and regard as a diagnostic clue for spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs). Intracranial DAVF in the posterior fossa draining into the perimedullary venous system can induce congestion of spinal cord while often be misdiagnosed and treated with steroid.
CASE PRESENTATION:
A 54-year-old woman presented progressive bilateral extremities weakness, bowel and bladder symptoms. A cervical MRI showed a longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesion from medulla oblongata to level of T4. A diagnose of NMO and cervical spondylopathy was made. On hospital day 2, methylprednisolone was prescribed at dose of 1g intravenous daily. After that, the patient experienced acute paraplegia. Treatment was stopped. And the patient improved on the hospital day 6, almost returned to her initial state. So the diagnosis of SDAVF was suspected. Spinal angiography was performed but the result was normal, and cerebral angiography demonstrated an DAVF fed by the right meningohypophyseal trunk and drain through right petrosal vein and into perimedullary venous system. Operation was performed successfully and the fistula was obliterated. The patient experienced an improvement of weakness and incontinence.
CONCLUSIONS:
We reported a case of intracranial DAVF with acute paraplegia response to intravenous glucocorticoid therapy.Intracranial DAVF can also lead venous congestion of the spinal cord, which induce similar clinical manifestation with spinal DAVF, the MRI examination of spinal cord can also find cord edema and typical enlarged medullary veins.
Serial Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in a Patient with Hyperglycemia-Related Osmotic Demyelination Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Kim Jong Hyuk , Park Noh Hyuck
Published: December 2018

Background: The authors report serial magnetic resonance imaging findings of osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS) related to hyperglycemia in a patient with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
Case presentation: A 61-year-old man with diabetes was admitted for general weakness and severe thirst. A few days later, he complained of dysarthria, dysphasia, and dysmetria. On admission, he exhibited significant hyperglycemia (33.5 mmol/L [627 mg/dL]), with a glycated hemoglobin level of 18.1%. Other laboratory investigations revealed a sodium level of 133 mEq/L, potassium 3.8 mEq/L, blood urea nitrogen 43.9 mg/dL, with a calculated serum osmolality of 324 mOsm/kg. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed T2 signal abnormalities that were symmetrical, non-space occupying, and located in the central pons with a peripheral sparing pattern, which were findings suggestive of ODS. In addition, subsequent MRI revealed progression of signal hyperintensity; however, the patient's symptoms were improved and he was discharged after 2 months.
Conclusion: We report a rare case of hyperglycemia-related ODS that exhibited gradual progression in imaging features despite the prompt correction of blood sugar levels and improvement of neurological symptoms
Information and communication technologies support for the participation of universities in innovation networks (comparative study)
Authors: Prokopenko Olha , Holmberg Rurik , Omelyanenko Vitaliy
Published: December 2018

To ensure and strengthen the development of high-tech R&D and its industrial applications in the long-term perspective, information and communication technologies (ICT) cooperation tools with national and international institutions, network associations and firms are of great importance. To solve this problem, a joint systematic and coordinated work to develop institutions that can provide crucial support to innovation process is crucial. For these purposes, higher educational institutions (HEI) innovation activities information and communication support and technological development analysis are critically important. The purpose of this study is to analyze the existing ICT toolkit, which is used to manage R&D and various industrial applications, and to develop a conceptual framework for the implementation of these tools for the participation of universities in innovation networks. To answer this question, authors begin by taking a closer look at the new role of universities in the development of knowledge generation in a global environment, as well as problems and tendencies under conditions of postindustrial society. The new role of universities in knowledge generation in the global environment development, and problems and tendencies under the conditions of postindustrial society were outlined. Modern ICT components, which are necessary for universities to participate in the innovation networks, were analyzed. Some cases of foreign experience in the scientific and innovation networks of current prototypes of Industry 4.0 development were discussed, and the possibilities of its adaptation to national innovation system formation conditions in Ukraine were identified. By theoretical and empirical examining, the authors propose more complete understanding of modern ICT components, which are necessary for universities to participate in innovation networks. Cases of foreign experience in the scientific and innovation networks of current prototypes of Industry 4.0 development were investigated. Moreover, the evidence from this study suggests a variety of factors related to the possibilities to adapt ICT tools to national innovation system formation in Ukraine.
Compression therapy for chronic edema of the extremities
Authors: Bogachev V. Yu. , Boldin B. V. , Rodionov S. V.
Published: December 2018

The article is devoted to etiopathogenesis, principles of diagnostics and treatment of chronic edema of the extremities associated with the pathology of the venous and lymphatic system. The authors emphasize the need for adequate compression therapy at all stages of treatment, with an emphasis on the usefulness of innovative flat-knit compression knitwear.
Effectiveness and safety of different schemes of perioperative prophylaxis withheparins in spine surgery
Authors: Karelov A. E. , Khmara V. M.
Published: December 2018

To study of effectiveness and safety of different schemes of perioperative prophylaxis against thromboembolism with heparins 36 patients who has been undergone spinal surgery under general anaesthesia were divided into three equal groups. Heparin, enoxaparin, and bemiparine were administrated to patients of h-group, e-group, and b-group, respectively, in routine regimen. Large ecchymosis, thromboembolic events, and bleeding were registered for first 5 postoperative days. Only the former has shown statistically significant differences between hand b-groups (p=0.01). In addition, emergence of large ecchymosis was higher in e-group compared with b-group (p=0.047). Thus, our data have suggested effectiveness and safety of different schemes of perioperative prophylaxis with heparins in spine surgery.
Large diameter hand-dug wells in South Africa
Authors: Gomo Modreck , Kotzé Yolanda , Vermeulen Danie
Published: December 2018

Despite technical advances, traditional large diameter hand-dug wells remain very important in remote and rural communities as a method for gaining access to groundwater for drinking, domestic and agricultural activities. This paper explores and discusses large diameter hand-dug wells in South Africa, with regard to their utilisation, research and development, and the legislative and policy framework guiding their development and use. While large diameter hand-dug wells have featured in national legislative and policy frameworks, and in early technical guidelines, in recent years the subject has not received much attention. There is also little evidence to suggest that large diameter hand-dug wells receive any attention in typical academic and research curriculums. While South Africa's national vision is to provide improved water supply schemes in rural areas under which clean drinking water can be accessed via communal water taps, it is clear that in some rural communities household large diameter hand-dug wells still remain the most feasible and convenient way to provide water, not only for drinking but also for agricultural activities – a key form of livelihood support contributing to poverty reduction. Large diameter hand-dug wells still need attention in the policy arena to improve technical guidance to optimise the development, utilisation and management of these wells.
Prêmio Universidade Corporativa Banrisul
Authors: NEVES Marta Silva
Published: December 2018

Esta edição especial da Revista Eletrônica Científica da UERGS compartilha artigos elaborados por colaboradores do Banrisul com temas referentes à gestão bancária. As produções são oriundas de cursos de graduação e pós-graduação, que participaram do Prêmio Universidade Corporativa Banrisul, que compôs as estratégias de celebração dos 50 Anos de Educação Corporativa dessa instituição financeira.O Prêmio voltado ao reconhecimento de projetos de pesquisa desenvolvidos, em formato de artigos, incentiva o espírito de inovação, a busca de conhecimento e a reflexão a respeito das ciências empresariais e suas tendências.
Economias de aglomeração no Brasil: evidências a partir de equações de rendimentos
Authors: CARRARO Anderson Bonetto , JACINTO Paulo de Andrade , CRAVO Túlio Antônio
Published: December 2018

O presente estudo tem como propósito analisar as economias de aglomeração no Brasil, a partir de equações de rendimentos. Por meio da Análise Exploratória de Dados Espaciais (AEDE), pretende-se verificar a existência de associações espaciais salariais, tais como: regiões homogêneas (clusters) e observações atípicas (outliers). Na segunda parte, dedicada à estimação do modelo econométrico, utilizam-se equações salariais, com formulação baseada em um modelo desenvolvido por Fingleton (2003), cuja principal hipótese aponta para uma relação positiva entre os diferenciais de salários e a densidade de emprego.
Estudo de caso: o perfil do consumidor superendividado no projeto de apoio às famílias superendividadas do PRASJUR e a educação financeira
Authors: SILVA Letícia Cancian Selba da
Published: December 2018

O presente estudo versa sobre o superendividamento e a educação financeira. Após quase uma década dos primeiros estudos no Brasil sobre superendividamento, bem como de sete anos da criação do Projeto Piloto de Tratamento das Situações de Superendividamento do Consumidor das juízas Clarissa Costa Lima e Káren Rick Danilevcz Bertoncello, a questão é saber se o perfil de consumidor superendividado identificado naquela época corresponde ao encontrado na mediação no Programa de Apoio às Famílias Superendividadas da UNISINOS em 2013. Assim, realizou-se pesquisa exploratória quantitativa e qualitativa no banco de dados do projeto, constatando-se que o perfil é praticamente o mesmo, com algumas poucas diferenças. Contudo, a análise dos dados também revelou as possíveis causas que resultaram na situação de ruína financeira do consumidor, a relação entre participação no projeto e não reincidência no endividamento, além da identificação dos produtos e serviços financeiros que exigem mais esforços em educação financeira.
Macroinvertebrados bentónicos como indicadores de calidad de agua en la cuenca del Pachanlica, provincia de Tungurahua, Ecuador
Authors: Bueñaño Marcia , Vásquez Carlos , Zurita-Vásquez Hernán , Parra Johana , Pérez Ruth
Published: December 2018

Se determinó la abundancia de los macroinvertebrados bentónicos presentes en un río altoandino (microcuenca del Pachanlica), en la Provincia de Tungurahua, Ecuador, durante dos períodos de muestreo (abril-diciembre del 2010 y enero-junio del 2011). Durante cada período se realizaron seis muestreos y los especímenes recolectados fueron identificados hasta nivel de orden y familia. Fueron calculados dos índices: el índice BMWP (Biological Monitoring Working Party) y el índice EPT (Ephereoptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera) para conocer la calidad del agua en la microcuenca del Pachanlica. Se recolectó un total de 3 023 especímenes de macroinvertebrados, de los cuales 1 669 especímenes fueron recolectados durante abril-diciembre 2010 y 1 354 en enero-junio 2011. Los valores del índice BMWP observados (variaron entre 2 y 34 y desde 0 y 36) durante el primer y segundo períodos, respectivamente permiten considerar las aguas en condición muy crítica y crítica. Por otra parte, basados en los valores del índice EPT, los cuales variaron desde 0 a 4,82 (primer período) y desde 0 a 16,81 % (segundo período), el agua de la cuenca Pachanlica podría categorizada como de mala calidad. La relativa poca abundancia de los macroinvertebrados podría tener relación con los parámetros físico-químicos del agua, principalmente con la concentración de amonio, sin embargo, se requieren estudios más detallados.
Apresentação
Authors: Lisboa Armando de Melo
Published: December 2018

Apresentação
TRIBUTO A UM PENSADOR DO DESENVOLVIMENTO COM DIMENSÃO ESPACIAL
Authors: Lins Hoyêdo Nunes
Published: December 2018

Há autores cuja obra é reconhecida por seus leitores como tendo sido de grande importância para suas trajetórias profissionais, merecendo justa manifestação de agradecimento. De fato, expor a relevância das ideias e abordagens de alguém para o aprimoramento da forma como nos debruçamos sobre questões de interesse intelectual ou prático, permitindo abertura de perspectivas e a multiplicação das indagações, é procedimento que deve embutir gratidão.
Justa Trama, elos solidários
Authors: Nespolo Nelsa Inês Fabian
Published: December 2018

Construiu princípios de vida, de valores e sobretudo acreditar que o mundo só muda se nós mudarmos.
Preface
Authors: Lisboa Armando de Melo
Published: December 2018

Preface
Effect of Ultrasonic Assisted Extraction on the Properties of Freeze-Dried Pomegranate Arils
Authors: Kumar Nishant , Neeraj
Published: December 2018

Background:

All parts of the pomegranate (fruits, leaves, flowers, and roots) are traditionally used as a folk medicine due to its high antioxidant and phenolic property. The pomegranate fruit is known for its antimicrobial, anticancer and anti-arteriosclerotic properties.

Objective:

The current study aims to the effect of ultra-sonication and temperature (45°C) on freezedried pomegranate arils powder for extraction of phenolic and flavonoid compounds and to study the antioxidant activity.

Methods:

The freeze-dried arils of pomegranate (Ganesh variety) were procured and subjected to ultra- sonication methods at 45ºC applied for 30 minutes by using methanol, ethanol, water, acetone and hexane solvent for obtaining the extract. The methanolic extract showed the highest phenolic (3036.725 ± 5.39 Gallic acid equivalents mg/100gm), flavonoid (15882.088 ± 0.64, quercetin mg/100g), antioxidant activity (96.1367±0.13%) and free reducing antioxidant power (FRAP assay-18.9033 ± 0.12, Tor. mg/100 ml) respectively, as compared to the extract obtained through other solvents.

Results:

The results obtained indicate that the freeze-drying method and ultrasonic extraction method is one of the effective and quick methods for quality extraction of phenolic and flavonoids compounds from fruits.

Conclusion:

The technology can further be explored for the development of nutraceutical and health supplements.
Enantioseparation of Eight Pairs of Tetralone Derivative Enantiomers on Cellulose Based Chiral Stationary Phase by HPLC
Authors: Zhang Qiongwen , Zhang Junyuan , Wang Xia , Yu Jia , Guo Xingjie
Published: December 2018

Background:

Tetralone derivatives, important resources for the development of new drugs
which can act in the treatment of central nervous system disorders or participate in synthesis reaction
for the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals, have great research value and a bright prospect in exploitation.

Methods:

A novel chiral HPLC method for efficient enantioseparation of eight tetralone derivative enantiomers
was developed on cellulose based CHIRALPAK IC chiral stationary phase under normal
mode by investigating the effects of type and content of organic modifier, column temperature and flow
rate on retention and enantioselectivity. Besides, the specificity, linearity, stability, precision, accuracy
and robustness of this method were also validated.

Results:

Satisfactory enantioseparation was obtained for all enantiomers in n-hexane/2-propanol mobile
phase system at ambient temperature. The thermodynamic study indicated that the solute transfer from
the mobile to stationary phase was enthalpically favorable, and the process of enantioseparation was
mainly enthalpy controlled. This method met the requirements for quantitative determination of tetralone
derivative enantiomers.

Conclusion:

This study can provide great and important application value for enantioseparation of eight
pairs of newly synthesized tetralone derivative enantiomers under normal mode using CHIRALPAK IC
chiral column.
Biomaterials and Gene Therapy: A Smart Combination for MSC Musculoskeletal Engineering
Authors: Mesure Benjamin , Menu Patrick , Venkatesan Jagadeesh K. , Cucchiarini Magali , Velot Émilie
Published: December 2018

Musculoskeletal pathologies, especially those affecting bones and joints, remain a challenge for regenerative medicine. The main difficulties affecting bone tissue engineering are the size of the defects, the need for blood vessels and the synthesis of appropriate matrix elements in the engineered tissue. Indeed, the cartilage is an avascular tissue and consequently has limited regenerative abilities. Thanks to their self-renewal, plasticity and immunomodulatory properties, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) became a central player in tissue engineering, and have already been shown to be able to differentiate towards chondrogenic or osteogenic phenotypes. Whether synthetic (e.g. tricalcium phosphate) or from natural sources (e.g. hyaluronic acid), biomaterials can be shaped to fit into bone and cartilage defects to ensure mechanical resistance and may also be designed to control cell spatial distribution or differentiation. Soluble factors are classically used to promote cell differentiation and to stimulate extracellular matrix synthesis to achieve the desired tissue production. But as they have a limited lifetime, transfection using plasmid DNA or transduction via a viral vector of therapeutic genes to induce the cell secretion of these factors allows to have more lasting effects. Also, the chondrocyte phenotype may be difficult to control over time, with for example the production of hypertrophic or osteogenic markers that is undesirable in hyaline cartilage. Thus, tissue regeneration strategies became more elaborate, with an attempt at associating the benefits of MSCs, biomaterials, and gene therapy to achieve a proper tissue repair. This minireview focuses on in vitro and in vivo studies combining biomaterials and gene therapy associated with MSCs for bone and cartilage engineering.
Aislamiento y selección de hongos de suelo solubilizadores de fósforo nativos del estado de Coahuila, México
Authors: Romero Fernández Abraham de Jesus , Arias Mota Rosa María , Mendoza Villarreal Rosalinda
Published: December 2018

Antecedentes y Objetivos: La deficiencia de fósforo en los cultivos agrícolas generalmente es atendida mediante la aplicación de fertilizantes. Sin embargo, estas prácticas resultan costosas y causan deterioro al medio ambiente. El uso de bio-productos como los hongos solubilizadores de fósforo constituyen una alternativa promisoria. El objetivo de este trabajo fue aislar y seleccionar hongos del suelo fosfato solubilizadores nativos de Coahuila, México, con potencial para ser utilizados como biofertilizantes.Métodos: El aislamiento de los hongos se llevó a cabo mediante la técnica de filtración de partículas de suelo. La selección de las cepas se realizó en el medio de cultivo de Sundara con fosfato tricálcico; la capacidad fosfato solubilizadora se detectó visualmente mediante la presencia de halos hialinos en el medio de cultivo. La evaluación cualitativa se determinó mediante el índice de eficiencia de solubilización. En la evaluación cuantitativa, los cultivos se incubaron en medio líquido por 25 días y cada cinco se midió el P soluble, pH y biomasa fúngica.Resultados clave: Se obtuvo un total de 271 aislamientos de hongos; de éstos 52.76% proyectaron resultados positivos a la prueba cualitativa de solubilización de fósforo. En cuanto a la eficiencia de solubilización, ésta fluctuó entre 2.06-6.85 unidades. Las cepas Sp. Mz54, Aspergillus sp. 4C19, Penicillium sp. Mu73, Penicillium sp. Mu77 y Penicillium sp. A56 presentaron los mayores índices de eficiencia de solubilización (t<0.005). En la medición cuantitativa, la cepa Penicillium sp. Mu73 solubilizó la mayor cantidad de fósforo (83.26 mg l-1) (t<0.005). De acuerdo con los análisis de regresión, el fósforo aumentó a medida que el pH decreció (r2=0.81).Conclusiones: La cepa Penicillium sp. Mu73 tiene un alto potencial para ser utilizada como biofertilizante ya que promueve un alto contenido de fósforo soluble en condiciones in vitro.
Accreditation of SME Healthcare: Operators' Readiness
Authors: Abdullah Nuraisyah Chua , Rosnan Herwina , Yusof Norzayana
Published: December 2018

SME healthcare includes the number of beds and other healthcare facilities that are not inpatient-based. While there are over 70 Malaysian healthcare centres that attract foreign patients, only thirteen are internationally accredited. Analysis from literature found that Malaysian SME healthcare providers are not ready for accreditation which partially due to financial and human resource constraints. Future research is called to gain empirical data on understanding the readiness, challenges and strategies to be implemented. The article is prominent in assisting the SME healthcare providers' behavioural change on the way towards accreditation for the growth of the medical tourism industry in Malaysia.
Good Waqf Governance and its Contribution in Sustainable Development
Authors: Abdul Latif Saripah , Nik Din Nik Muniyati , Mustapha Zaiton
Published: December 2018

Waqf is an Islamic charity institution which should be able to act as the catalyst for sustainable development, if the institution is systematically and optimally implemented. However, a substantial proportion of total waqf is still lying dormant across the world. The aim of the study is to obtain a better understanding in waqf governance issues. An exploratory research design is carried out on the authority which is responsible for the implementation of waqf governance in Kelantan, a state in Malaysia. The findings showed that legislation and inefficient management are among the possible impeding factors for good governance of waqf.
Effectiveness of an Educational Intervention in Reducing New International Postgraduates’ Acculturative Stress in Malaysian Public Universities: Protocol for a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Al-Jaberi Musheer Abdulwahid , Juni Muhamad Hanafiah , Kadir Shahar Hayati , Ismail Siti Irma Fadhilah , Saeed Murad Abdu , Ying Lim Poh
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Universities around the world, including Malaysia, have attracted many international students from different countries. Research has reported that acculturative stress resulting from international students’ attempts to adjust to the cultures of host countries is one of the most challenging issues that affects their lives in general and academic lives in particular.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to examine the effectiveness of an educational intervention on acculturative stress among new postgraduate international students joining Malaysian public universities.

METHODS

A cluster randomized controlled trial design with Malaysian public universities as the unit of randomization will be used in this study. Public universities will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to be either in the intervention (educational program) or control group (waiting list). Participants in the intervention group will receive 7 sessions in 9 hours delivered by an expert in psychology and the researcher. The control group will receive the intervention once the 3-month follow-up evaluation is completed.

RESULTS

The data will be analyzed using the generalized estimation equation with a confidence interval value of 95%; significant differences between and within groups are determined as P<.05. The results of the study underlie the effectiveness of educational program in decreasing acculturative stress of new international students and enabling them to cope with a new environment. The results of this study will contribute to previous knowledge of acculturative stress, acculturation, and adjustment of international students. Furthermore, such results are expected to play a role in raising university policy makers’ awareness of their postgraduate international students’ acculturative stress issues and how they can help them avoid such stress and perform well in their academic life.

CONCLUSIONS

We expect that the intervention group will score significantly lower than the wait-list group on the immediate and 3-month postintervention evaluation of acculturative stress and achieve a higher level of adjustment. Results will have implications for international students, policy makers at universities, the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education, and future research.

CLINICALTRIAL

Clinical Trials Registry India CTRI/2018/01/011223; http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/showallp.php?mid1= 21978&EncHid=&userName=Muhamad%20Hanafiah%20Juni

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/12950
Feasibility and Acceptability of a Mental Health Website for Adults With an Intellectual Disability: Qualitative Evaluation (Preprint)
Authors: Watfern Chloe , Heck Chloe , Rule Chris , Baldwin Peter , Boydell Katherine M
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Electronic mental health (e-mental health) programs for people with an intellectual disability are currently underexplored but may provide a way of mitigating some of the barriers that this population faces in accessing appropriate mental health services.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine the feasibility and acceptability of Healthy Mind, an e-mental health program for adults with an intellectual disability developed by the Black Dog Institute, focusing on the design and implementation of the website.

METHODS

A qualitative research design was used, which involved semistructured interviews and focus groups with people with an intellectual disability, support workers, and allied health professionals. People with an intellectual disability were also observed while using the website. A thematic analysis was used to interrogate the interview transcripts and observational field notes.

RESULTS

Participants found the content of the website informative and appreciated the many ways that the website had been made accessible to users. Participants voiced some differing requirements regarding the way information should be presented and accessed on the website. Acknowledging different types of support needs was identified as an important issue for website dissemination.

CONCLUSIONS

The Healthy Mind website promises to provide an excellent tool for people with ID and their supporters. This research has pragmatic implications for the future development and implementation of the program, while contributing to knowledge in the broader fields of e-mental health and inclusive design for people with an intellectual disability.
A Mobile Phone App for the Provision of Personalized Food-Based Information in an Eating-Out Situation: Development and Initial Evaluation (Preprint)
Authors: Appleton Katherine Marie , Bray Jeff , Price Sarah , Liebchen Gernot , Jiang Nan , Mavridis Ioannis , Saulais Laure , Giboreau Agnès , Perez-Cueto Federico J A , Coolen Rebecca , Ronge Manfred , Hartwell Heather
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Increasing pressure from governments, public health bodies, and consumers is driving a need for increased food-based information provision in eating-out situations. Meals eaten outside the home are known to be less healthy than meals eaten at home, and consumers can complain of poor information on the health impact and allergen content of meals eaten out.

OBJECTIVE

This paper aimed to describe the development and early assessment of a mobile phone app that allows the provision of accurate personalized food-based information while considering individual characteristics (allergies, diet type, and preferences) to enable informed consumer choice when eating out.

METHODS

An app was designed and developed to address these requirements using an agile approach. The developed app was then evaluated at 8 public engagement events using the System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire and qualitative feedback.

RESULTS

Consideration of the literature and consultation with consumers revealed a need for information provision for consumers in the eating-out situation, including the ability to limit the information provided to that which was personally relevant or interesting. The app was designed to provide information to consumers on the dishes available in a workplace canteen and to allow consumers the freedom to personalize the app and choose the information that they received. Evaluation using the SUS questionnaire revealed positive responses to the app from a range of potential users, and qualitative comments demonstrated broad interest in its use.

CONCLUSIONS

This paper details the successful development and early assessment of a novel mobile phone app designed to provide food-based information in an eating-out situation in a personalized manner.
Impact of Perinatal Different Intrauterine Environments on Child Growth and Development: Planning and Baseline Data for a Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: Werlang Isabel Cristina Ribas , Bernardi Juliana Rombaldi , Nunes Marina , Marcelino Thiago Beltram , Bosa Vera Lucia , Michalowski Mariana Bohns , da Silva Clécio Homrich , Goldani Marcelo Zubaran
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Several studies have shown that exposure of the fetus and newborn to prenatal and perinatal events, respectively, may influence the health outcomes of the child throughout their life cycle.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to increase the knowledge on the impact of different intrauterine environments on child growth and development, as we know that pregnancy and early years are a window of opportunity for health promotion and prevention interventions of diseases.

METHODS

The recruitment occurred 24 to 48 hours after delivery and involved mothers and their newborns in 2 public hospitals in Porto Alegre, Brazil, from December 2011 to January 2016. The mothers-newborns dyads were allocated to 5 groups: diabetes mellitus, mothers with a clinical diagnosis of diabetes; systemic arterial hypertension (SAH), mothers with a clinical diagnosis of systematic arterial hypertensive disease during pregnancy; maternal smoking, mothers who smoked at any moment of gestation; small for gestational age (SGA), mothers with SGA newborns because of intrauterine growth restriction; and control, mothers without the clinical characteristics previously mentioned. Several protocols and anthropometric measurements were applied in the interviews at immediate postpartum and 7 and 15 days and 1, 3, and 6 months after birth. For this study, we analyzed only data collected during postpartum interviews. The statistical analyses were performed using Pearson chi-square test, Mann-Whitney test, or Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn post hoc. The significance level was set at 5%. The Hospital Ethics and Research Committees approved the study.

RESULTS

Of the 485 eligible mothers-newborns dyads, 400 agreed to participate (82.5%, 400/485). As expected, newborns from the SGA group had significantly lower birth weight, smaller stature, and lower cephalic perimeter (P<.001). This group also had the highest percentage of primiparous women in comparison with other groups (P=.005) except for control. Mothers from the SAH group had the highest mean age, the highest percentage of cesarean sections, and presented greater gestational weight gain.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we describe the planning and structure for the systematic follow-up of mother-newborn dyads in the first 6 months after birth, considering the important demographic and epidemiological transition scenario in Brazil. The results of this prospective longitudinal study may provide a better understanding of the causal mechanisms involved in health and life course disease related to different adverse intrauterine environments.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

NA
The Continued Use of Mobile Health Apps: Insights From a Longitudinal Study (Preprint)
Authors: Vaghefi Isaac , Tulu Bengisu
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Mobile health (mHealth) apps that support individuals pursuing health and wellness goals, such as weight management, stress management, smoking cessation, and self-management of chronic conditions have been on the rise. Despite their potential benefits, the use of these tools has been limited, as most users stop using them just after a few times of use. Under this circumstance, achieving the positive outcomes of mHealth apps is less likely.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to understand continued use of mHealth apps and individuals’ decisions related to this behavior.

METHODS

We conducted a qualitative longitudinal study on continued use of mHealth apps. We collected data through 34 pre- and postuse interviews and 193 diaries from 17 participants over two weeks.

RESULTS

We identified 2 dimensions that help explain continued use decisions of users of mHealth apps: users’ assessment of mHealth app and its capabilities (user experience) and their persistence at their health goals (intent). We present the key factors that influence users’ assessment of an mHealth app (interface design, navigation, notifications, data collection methods and tools, goal management, depth of knowledge, system rules, actionable recommendations, and user system fit) and relate these factors to previous literature on behavior change technology design. Using these 2 dimensions, we developed a framework that illustrated 4 decisions users might make after initial interaction with mHealth apps (to abandon use, limit use, switch app, and continue use). We put forth propositions to be explored in future research on mHealth app use.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides insight into the factors that shape users’ decisions to continue using mHealth apps, as well as other likely decision scenarios after the initial use experience. The findings contribute to extant knowledge of mHealth use and provide important implications for design of mHealth apps to increase long-term engagement of the users.
Short Message Service Text Message Support for Weight Loss in Patients With Prediabetes: Pragmatic Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Fischer Henry H , Durfee Michael J , Raghunath Silvia G , Ritchie Natalie D
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

To reach all 84.1 million US adults estimated to have prediabetes warrants need for low-cost and less burdensome alternatives to the National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP). In a previous randomized controlled trial, we demonstrated the efficacy of a 12-month short message service text message support program called SMS4PreDM amongst individuals with prediabetes.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of SMS4PreDM in a pragmatic study following dissemination in a safety net health care system.

METHODS

English- and Spanish-speaking patients at risk for diabetes (eg, glycated hemoglobin 5.7-6.4) were referred by their providers and offered either NDPP classes, SMS4PreDM, or both. This analysis focuses on weight change among 285 SMS4PreDM-only participants who began the year-long intervention between October 2015 and April 2017 with accompanying pre- and postweights, as compared with 1233 usual-care control patients at risk for diabetes, who were identified from electronic health records during this time but not referred. Weight outcomes included time-related mean weight change and frequency of either ≥3% weight loss or gain. Mixed linear models adjusted for age, gender, race, ethnicity, preferred language, and baseline weight. A secondary analysis was stratified by language. We also assessed implementation factors, including retention and cost.

RESULTS

SMS4PreDM participants had high retention (259 of 285 patients or 91.0% completion at 12-months, ) and a time-related mean weight loss of 1.3 pounds (SE 0.74), compared with the control group’s slight mean weight gain of 0.25 pounds (SE 0.59; P=.004). Spanish-speaking SMS4PreDM participants (n=130) had a time-related mean weight loss of 1.11 pounds (SE 1.22) compared with weight gain of 0.96 pounds (SE 1.14) in Spanish-speaking controls (n=382, P<.001). English-speaking intervention participants (n=155) had a comparable time-related mean weight change (–0.89 pounds; SE 0.93) as English-speaking controls (n=828; 0.31 pounds gained; SE 0.62, P=.14). Overall, frequency of achieving ≥3% weight loss was comparable between groups (54 of 285 or 19.0% of SMS4PreDM participants [95% CI 14.8-23.9] vs 266 of 1233 or 21.6% of controls [95% CI 19.3-24.0]; P=.33). Nonetheless, more controls had ≥3% weight gain compared with intervention participants (337 of 1233 or 27.3% of controls [95% CI 24.9-29.9] vs 57 of 285 or 20.0% of SMS4PreDM participants [95% CI 16.8-25.1]; P=.01). SMS4PreDM delivery costs were US $100.92 per participant.

CONCLUSIONS

Although SMS4PreDM was relatively low cost to deliver and demonstrated high retention, weight loss outcomes may not be sufficient to serve as a population health strategy.
A New Light-Emitting, Fabric-Based Device for Photodynamic Therapy of Actinic Keratosis: Protocol for a Randomized, Controlled, Multicenter, Intra-Individual, Phase II Noninferiority Study (the Phosistos Study) (Preprint)
Authors: Vignion-Dewalle Anne-Sophie , Abi Rached Henry , Thecua Elise , Lecomte Fabienne , Deleporte Pascal , Béhal Hélène , Hommel Theresa , Duhamel Alain , Szeimies Rolf-Markus , Mortier Laurent , Mordon Serge
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a common early in situ skin carcinoma caused by long-term sun exposure and usually develops on sun-exposed skin areas. Left untreated, AK may progress to squamous cell carcinoma. To prevent such risk, most clinicians routinely treat AK. Therapy options for AK include cryotherapy, topical treatments, curettage, excision surgery, and photodynamic therapy (PDT).

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to assess the noninferiority, in terms of efficacy at 3 months, of a PDT protocol involving a new light-emitting device (PDT using the Phosistos protocol [P-PDT]) compared with the conventional protocol (PDT using the conventional protocol [C-PDT]) in the treatment of AK.

METHODS

In this randomized, controlled, multicenter, intra-individual, phase II noninferiority clinical study, subjects with AK of the forehead and scalp are treated with P-PDT on one area and with C-PDT on the contralateral area. In both areas, lesions are prepared and methyl aminolevulinate (MAL) is applied. Thirty minutes after MAL application, the P-PDT area is exposed to red light at low irradiance (1.3 mW/cm2) for 2.5 hours so that a light dose of 12 J/cm2 is achieved. In the control area (C-PDT area), a 37 J/cm2 red light irradiation is performed 3 hours after MAL application. Recurrent AK at 3 months is retreated. The primary end point is the lesion complete response rate at 3 months. Secondary end points include pain scores at 1 day, local tolerance at 7 days, lesion complete response rate at 6 months, cosmetic outcome at 3 and 6 months, and patient-reported quality of life and satisfaction throughout the study. A total of 45 patients needs to be recruited.

RESULTS

Clinical investigations are complete: 46 patients were treated with P-PDT on one area (n=285 AK) and with C-PDT on the contralateral area (n=285 AK). Data analysis is ongoing, and statistical results will be available in the first half of 2019.

CONCLUSIONS

In case of noninferiority in efficacy and superiority in tolerability of P-PDT compared with C-PDT, P-PDT could become the treatment of choice for AK.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03076892; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03076892 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/779qqVKek)

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPOR

DERR1-10.2196/12990