bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
General practitioners’ and out-of-hours doctors’ role as gatekeeper in emergency admissions to somatic hospitals in Norway: registry-based observational study
Authors: Blinkenberg Jesper , Pahlavanyali Sahar , Hetlevik Øystein , Sandvik Hogne , Hunskaar Steinar
Published: August 2019

Background

Primary care doctors have a gatekeeper function in many healthcare systems, and strategies to reduce emergency hospital admissions often focus on general practitioners’ (GPs’) and out-of-hours (OOH) doctors’ role. The aim of the present study was to investigate these doctors’ role in emergency admissions to somatic hospitals in the Norwegian public healthcare system, where GPs and OOH doctors have a distinct gatekeeper function.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis was performed by linking data from the Norwegian Patient Registry (NPR) and the physicians’ claims database. The referring doctor was defined as the physician who had sent a claim for a consultation with the patient within 24 h prior to an emergency admission. If there was no claim registered prior to hospital arrival, the admission was defined as direct, representing admissions from ambulance services, referrals from nursing home doctors, and admissions initiated by in-hospital doctors.

Results

In 2014 there were 497,587 emergency admissions to somatic hospitals in Norway after excluding birth related conditions. Direct admissions were most frequent (43%), 31% were referred by OOH doctors, 25% were referred by GPs, whereas only 2% were referred from outpatient clinics or private specialists with public contract. Direct admissions were more common in central areas (52%), here GPs’ referrals constituted only 16%. The prehospital paths varied with the hospital discharge diagnosis. For anaemias, 46–49% were referred by GPs, for acute appendicitis and mental/alcohol related disorders 52 and 49% were referred by OOH doctors, respectively. For both malignant neoplasms and cardiac arrest 63% were direct admissions.

Conclusions

GPs or OOH doctors referred many emergencies to somatic hospitals, and for some clinical conditions GPs’ and OOH doctors’ gatekeeping role was substantial. However, a significant proportion of the emergency admissions was direct, and this reduces the impact of the GPs’ and OOH doctors’ gatekeeper roles, even in a strict gatekeeping system.
Analyzing ancient Chinese handmade Lajian paper exhibiting an orange-red color
Authors: Luo Yanbing , Chen Jiali , Yang Cheng , Huang Yifan
Published: August 2019

The ancient technique employed to produce Lajian paper—a very famous Chinese traditional handmade paper—has been lost. However, widespread restoration of the traditional skills used in the paper’s production is emerging in China. A small piece of orange-red Lajian paper dating from the Qing dynasty and decorated with flecked Ag and Au was chosen as the subject of this study to investigate the paper’s composition and structure using optical microscopy (OM), SEM–EDS, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, and FTIR spectroscopy. The results revealed that the raw materials constituting the Lajian paper were bast and bamboo fibers. Each of the two paper layers was treated differently. First, the upper orange-red layer was treated with kaolinite and organic turmeric. Next, inorganic minium nt was used to obtain an orange-red color. Animal glue was used as a binding medium. Finally, the dyed surface was waxed with Chinese insect wax and then polished with small stones to form a smooth coating. The same treatment, except for the intentional use of inorganic pigment, was applied to the backing layer. Turmeric dye, minium, and wax coating protected Lajian paper from humidity and mold growth while maintaining the stability of the paper.
Extending the role of headquarters beyond the firm boundary: entrepreneurial alliance innovation
Authors: Kim Jaeho , Wu Andy
Published: August 2019

Prior research on corporate headquarters (CHQ) characteristics identifies the impact of CHQ location and composition on the innovation outcomes of internal subsidiaries. However, given that external strategic alliances with high-tech entrepreneurial firms represent a key source of innovation for the corporation, corporations must also consider how their choices of CHQ location and composition affect the innovation outcomes of these partners. In a study of 36 incumbent pharmaceutical corporations in 377 strategic alliances with 143 VC-backed biotechnology startups, we leverage detailed hand-collected data on CHQ locations and functions to estimate the effect of the CHQ on the innovation performance of the corporations’ entrepreneurial alliance partners. We find that a 1000-km decrease in CHQ–partner distance leads to an increase of 28 forward citations for the alliance partner, i.e., a 1% decrease in the distance is associated with a 1.7% increase in innovation performance. We find that the co-located presence of the corporation’s R&D function at the CHQ attenuates the benefit of CHQ–partner proximity, particularly for alliances structured for horizontal collaboration at the same part of the value chain. This study contributes to the literatures on both CHQ design and technology alliances.
High-sensitivity microseismic monitoring: Automatic detection and localization of subsurface noise sources using matched-field processing and dense patch arrays
Authors: Chmiel Małgorzata , Roux Philippe , Bardainne Thomas
Published: August 2019

Recent advancements in seismic data acquisition and computational power have enhanced the deployment of dense seismic monitoring networks. The growing volume of recorded data requires the development of automated techniques to monitor and image zones of seismicity. We have developed an automatic detection and localization method that demands minimal a priori information for retrieval of the spatial distribution of subsurface noise sources (including, but not limited to, microseismic activity), in a reservoir and in the near vicinity during a hydraulic fracturing treatment. This method is based on matched-field processing (MFP), which takes advantage of the phase coherence that is recorded at dense arrays of sensors to localize noise sources. MFP is applied with a distributed set of patch arrays in the context of geophysics exploration. The MFP approach is applied to ambient noise recordings, and it provides results that are consistent with the classic localization methods applied to high-amplitude microseismic signals (in particular, using the relative template-based method). Furthermore, MFP provides enhanced sensitivity of detection and spatially extended information about structural heterogeneities. MFP opens a route to continuous, automatic, statistics-based, and high-sensitivity reservoir monitoring and imaging for geophysics exploration. Potential applications can also be envisaged for seismic monitoring of volcanic and geyser activities, and for other types of hydrothermal activity.
21-Gene Recurrence Score Adds Significant Value for Grade 3 Breast Cancers: Results From a National Cohort
Authors: Iorgulescu J. Bryan , Freedman Rachel A. , Lester Susan C. , Mittendorf Elizabeth A. , Brock Jane E.
Published: August 2019

PURPOSE

The 21-gene recurrence score (RS) is used to identify patients with hormone receptor–positive early-stage breast cancer who may benefit from the addition of chemotherapy to endocrine therapy. We hypothesized that many women with poor prognostic histopathologic grade 3 disease may be offered chemotherapy irrespective of RS results, of whom a subset may not benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 30,864 women in the National Cancer Database were diagnosed with pT1c to pT2, pN0 to pN1, grade 3 estrogen receptor–positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative invasive breast carcinoma from 2010 to 2015. RS was stratified as low (less than 18), intermediate (18 to 30), and high (31 or more). Overall survival by RS was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier, log-rank, and multivariable proportional hazards, with adjustment for relevant clinical and demographic variables.

RESULTS

RS testing in grade 3 cancers increased between 2010 and 2015 (pN0, 53% to 72%; pN1, 16% to 36%). Among the 13,558 women with pN0 and the 2,840 with pN1 disease with RS testing, 27.1% and 30.0%, respectively, had low scores (less than 18). The 5-year overall survival rate for patients with a high RS, but not low RS, was significantly higher with chemotherapy ( v no chemotherapy; absolute differences: high RS pN0 = 12.2% and pN1 = 25.5%, both P < .001; low RS pN0 = 2.5%, P = .07; and pN1 = 1.0%, P = .27), findings that were reinforced in multivariable analyses risk adjusted by clinicopathologic characteristics.

CONCLUSION

Increased use of RS may help to better tailor treatment recommendations by stratifying patients with grade 3 disease into those who will and will not derive survival benefit and should be considered in all patients with estrogen receptor–positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative T1c to T2, N0 to N1 disease.
The auxiliary ESCRT complexes provide robustness to cold in poikilothermic organisms
Authors: Bäumers Miriam , Klose Sven , Brüser Christian , Haag Carl , Hänsch Sebastian , Pannen Hendrik , Weidtkamp-Peters Stefanie , Feldbrügge Michael , Klein Thomas
Published: August 2019

The ESCRT pathway, comprising the in sequence acting ESCRT-0, -I, -II, -III and Vps4 complexes, conducts the abscission of membranes away from the cytosol. Whereas the components of the central ESCRT-III core complex have been thoroughly investigated, the function of the components of the associated two auxiliary ESCRT sub-complexes are not well-understood in metazoans, especially at the organismal level.

We here present the developmental analysis of the Drosophila orthologs of the auxiliary ESCRTs Chmp5 and Ist1, DChmp5 and DIst1, which belong to the two auxiliary sub-complexes. While each single null mutant displayed mild defects in development, the Dist1 Dchmp5 double mutant display a severe defect, indicating that the two genes act synergistically, but in separate pathway. Moreover, the presented results indicate that the auxiliary ESCRTs provide robustness against cold during development of diverse poikilothermic organisms, probably by preventing the accumulation of the ESCRT-III core component Shrub on the endosomal membrane.
Fibroblast growth factor-6 enhances CDK2 and MATK expression in microvesicles derived from human stem cells extracted from exfoliated deciduous teeth
Authors: Othman Ahmed , Mubarak Rabab , Sabry Dina
Published: August 2019

Background: Stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) are considered one of the most convenient sources of adult stem cells. This study aimed to examine the effect of fibroblast growth factor 6 (FGF-6) on SHEDs and evaluate CDK2 and MATK gene expression in SHED-derived microvesicles (MVs). SHEDs were cultured from deciduous teeth pulp.

Methods: SHEDs were divided into two groups: the control group and test groups, with and without FGF-6 supplementation, respectively. After the third passage, SHED proliferation was assessed by MTT assay. MVs were purified and CDK2 and MATK gene expression was assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. SHEDs were identified by their positivity for CD90 and CD73, and negativity for CD45 and CD34.

Results: SHEDs proliferation in the test group was significantly higher than in the control group (P<0.001). mRNA from SHED-derived MVs from the test group exhibited a markedly elevated expression of CDK2 and MATK, (P<0.002 and P<0.005, respectively) in comparison with those of the control group. FGF-6 enhanced the proliferation of SHEDs. Proliferation enhancement is favorable for the production of a large number of stem cells, which will then be beneficial for cell-based therapies.

Conclusions: CDK2 and MATK genes in SHED-derived MVs can be used as molecular biomarkers for SHED proliferation.
Anti-hypercholesterolemic effect of Zingiber montanum extract
Authors: Paramita Swandari , Aminyoto Meiliati , Ismail Sjarif , Arung Enos Tangke
Published: August 2019

Background: High cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolemia) has been recognized to cause various disease, most notably the cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately, most anti-hypercholesterolemic drugs deliver several side effects for patients, by which medicinal plants have begun to attract attention for treating hypercholesterolemia. Among others, Zingiber montanum (J.König) Link ex A.Dietr. has traditionally been taken for treating health problems caused by high cholesterol levels. Hence, this work aimed at investigating anti-hypercholesterolemic effects offered by the plant.

Methods: This study was conducted on 30 male Wistar rats. During experiments, the subjects were divided into 6 groups (n=5), i.e. no treatment (Group 1, control); high-fat diet (Group 2, control); high-fat diet with simvastatin (Group 3); high-fat diet with plant extracts (Group 4-6 with 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg BW, respectively). After 4 weeks of treatments, blood samples were collected from each group. Then, plasma concentrations of triglycerides, total cholesterol, high density lipoproteins (HDL), and low density lipoproteins (LDL) were measured.

Results: There were significant differences in total cholesterol (p=0.000), LDL (p=0.000) and triglycerides (p=0.001) for Groups 4-6 (high-fat diet treated with different plant extract doses) in comparison with Group 2 (high-fat diet, control). Meanwhile, there were no significant differences in HDL levels (p=0.830) between Group 2 (high-fat diet, control) and other groups. The results also showed significant differences in total cholesterol and LDL for subjects treated with plant extracts (Group 4, 100 mg/kg BW, p=0.000;  Group 5, 200 mg/kg BW, p=0.000; Group 6, 400 mg/kg BW, p=0.000) compared to Group 2 (high-fat diet, control). Then, treatments with 400 mg/kg BW (Group 6) discovered significant reductions in total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides (p=0.030).

Conclusion: Therefore, Z. montanum has been discovered to deliver anti-hypercholesterolemic effects to experimental subjects, making it potential to act as a natural source of anti-hypercholesterolemic agents.
Association of thrombocytopenia with splenomegaly in malaria patients in East Kalimantan: A cross-sectional, retrospective study
Authors: Siagian Loly R.D. , Lumbantoruan Vera M. , Hasanah Nurul , Sihotang Fransiska A. , Gunawan Carta
Published: August 2019

Background: Malaria still presents as a major health problem in Indonesia and specifically in East Kalimantan. One common sign found in malaria patient is thrombocytopenia, the mechanism of which is still unclear. Several studies have suggested some mechanisms, one of which is splenomegaly. This study aimed to discover the association between thrombocytopenia and splenomegaly of malaria patients in East Kalimantan.

Methods: This study was a descriptive retrospective study with clinical and laboratory data obtained from the medical records of malaria patients in four major public hospitals from January 2015 to July 2018. The association between thrombocytopenia with splenomegaly was analysed using Chi-Square test.

Results: A total of 215 patients were included; 189 male (87.9%) and 26 female (12.1%). The etiologic agents found in these patients were Plasmodium vivax (43.2%), Plasmodium falciparum (42.8%), and mixed infection (Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax) (4.6%). The thrombocyte count was normal in 28 patients (13%) and decreased in 187 patients (87%). Among patients with thrombocytopenia, the percentage of mild, moderate and severe thrombocytopenia was 18.2%, 43.8% and 33%, respectively. Splenomegaly was found in only 11 patients (5.1%). We found no association between thrombocytopenia with splenomegaly (p=0.61).

Conclusions: We conclude that thrombocytopenia is not associated with splenomegaly in these malaria patients.
Development of an informatics system for accelerating biomedical research.
Authors: Navale Vivek , Ji Michele , Vovk Olga , Misquitta Leonie , Gebremichael Tsega , Garcia Alison , Fann Yang , McAuliffe Matthew
Published: August 2019

Biomedical translational research can benefit from informatics system that support the confidentiality, integrity and accessibility of data.  Such systems require functional capabilities for researchers to securely submit data to designated biomedical repositories. Reusability of data is enhanced by the availability functional capabilities that ensure confidentiality, integrity and access of data. A biomedical research system was developed by combining common data element methodology with a service-oriented architecture to support multiple disease focused research programs. Seven service modules are integrated together to provide a collaborative and extensible web-based environment. The modules - Data Dictionary, Account Management, Query Tool, Protocol and Form Research Management System, Meta Study, Repository Manager and globally unique identifier (GUID) facilitate the management of research protocols, submitting and curating data (clinical, imaging, and derived genomics) within the associated data repositories. No personally identifiable information is stored within the repositories. Data is made findable by use of digital object identifiers that are associated with the research studies. Reuse of data is possible by searching through volumes of aggregated research data across multiple studies. The application of common data element(s) methodology for development of content-based repositories leads to increase in data interoperability that can further hypothesis-based biomedical research.
Diversity and distribution of fish fauna of upstream and downstream areas at Koto Panjang Reservoir, Riau Province, Indonesia
Authors: Aryani Netti , Suharman Indra , Azrita Azrita , Syandri Hafrijal , Mardiah Ainul
Published: August 2019

Background: The capture fishery sectors in the river and reservoir play an important role in the Indonesian economy through increased income and diversification of livelihoods. The present study was conducted to ascertain fish diversity and their distribution pattern in the upstream and downstream areas of Koto Panjang Reservoir, Riau Province-Indonesia.

Methods: Fish samples were collected for a period of 12 months using a variety of fish nets at four sites; Koto Mesjid (KM) and Batu Bersurat (BB), located in the upstream area of Koto Panjang Reservoir and Rantau Berangin (RB) and Kuok (KK), located in the downstream area of Koto Panjang Reservoir. Data obtained were analyzed using standard taxonomic keys based on morphometric characters.

Results: A total of 44 species belonging 19 families and 33 genera were recorded in the study area. Alpha diversity indices showed that fish diversity in this area was quite high (Shannon’s index = 2.10 and Simpson-D = 0.21) and evenness was low (evenness H/S =0.19). The ﬁsh in KM and BB sites (upstream) were from eight and 11 families, respectively. In RB and KK sites (downstream), fish were from 16 and 15 families, respectively. In KM, BB, RB and KK sites, the dominant family was Cyprinidae, comprising 33.45%, 50.95%, 43.04% and 39.35% of all fish caught at each site, respectively. Exotic species, especially Nile tilapia, were 20.15%, 14.11%, 5.62%, and 5.34%, respectively. Some differences were also noted between the upstream and downstream reservoirs, with a slight increase in exotic species in the upstream reservoir over the study period (from 11.39% vs. 34.66%), corresponding to decrease of native species (from 88.61% vs. 65.34%).

Conclusions: The diversity and distribution of fish fauna were varied in upstream and downstream areas of Koto Panjang Reservoir. The exotic species were found to be dominant in the upstream reservoir areas.
Zika virus infection as a cause of congenital brain abnormalities and Guillain-Barré syndrome: A living systematic review
Authors: Counotte Michel Jacques , Meili Kaspar Walter , Taghavi Katayoun , Calvet Guilherme , Sejvar James , Low Nicola
Published: August 2019

Background:The Zika virus (ZIKV) caused a large outbreak in the Americas leading to the declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in February 2016. A causal relation between infection and adverse congenital outcomes such as microcephaly was declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) informed by a systematic review structured according to a framework of ten dimensions of causality, based on the work of Bradford Hill. Subsequently, the evidence has continued to accumulate, which we incorporate in regular updates of the original work, rendering it a living systematic review.

Methods:We present an update of our living systematic review on the causal relation between ZIKV infection and adverse congenital outcomes and between ZIKV and GBS for four dimensions of causality: strength of association, dose-response, specificity, and consistency. We assess the evidence published between January 18, 2017 and July 1, 2019.

Results:We found that the strength of association between ZIKV infection and adverse outcomes from case-control studies differs according to whether exposure to ZIKV is assessed in the mother (OR 3.8, 95% CI: 1.7-8.7, I2=19.8%) or the foetus/infant (OR 37.4, 95% CI: 11.0-127.1, I2=0%). In cohort studies, the risk of congenital abnormalities was 3.5 times higher after ZIKV infection (95% CI: 0.9-13.5, I2=0%). The strength of association between ZIKV infection and GBS was higher in studies that enrolled controls from hospital (OR: 55.8, 95% CI: 17.2-181.7, I2=0%) than in studies that enrolled controls at random from the same community or household (OR: 2.0, 95% CI: 0.8-5.4, I2=74.6%). In case-control studies, selection of controls from hospitals could have biased results.

Conclusions:The conclusions that ZIKV infection causes adverse congenital outcomes and GBS are reinforced with the evidence published between January 18, 2017 and July 1, 2019.
Impact of cigarette price increase on health and financing outcomes in Vietnam
Authors: Wu Daphne C. , Jha Prabhat , Dutta Sheila , Marquez Patricio
Published: August 2019

Background: Vietnam had about 15 million male smokers in 2015. To reduce adult tobacco use in Vietnam through an increase in the excise tax of cigarettes, we conducted an extended cost-effectiveness analysis to examine the impact of two scenarios of cigarette price increases.

Methods: We estimated, across income quintiles, the life-years gained, treatment cost averted, number of men avoiding catastrophic health expenditure and extreme poverty, and additional tax revenue under a 32% and a 62% increase in cigarette price through increased excise tax. We considered only male smokers as they constitute majority of the smokers. We used the average price elasticity of demand for cigarettes in Vietnam of -0.53.

Results: Under both scenarios of price increase, men in the poorest quintile would gain about 2.8 times the life-years and avert 2.5 times the treatment cost averted by the richest quintile. With a 32% price increase, about 285,000 men would avoid catastrophic health expenditure; as a result, about 95,000 men, more than half of whom in the poorest quintile, would avoid falling into extreme poverty. In contrast to the distribution of health benefits, the extra revenue generated from men in the richest quintile would be 1.2 times that from the poorest quintile. With a 62% price increase, about 553,000 men would avoid catastrophic health expenditure, and about 183,000 men, more than half of whom in the poorest quintile, would avoid falling into extreme poverty. The extra revenue generated from men in the richest quintile would be 3.8 times that from the poorest quintile.

Conclusions: Higher cigarette prices would particularly benefit the poorest income quintile of Vietnamese, in terms of health and financial outcomes. Thus, tobacco taxes are an effective way to improve health and reduce poverty in Vietnam.
Analysis of the Science Course Curriculum Objectives and High School Entrance Examination Questions According to TIMSS Framework
Authors: Peduk Burcu , Ates Ozlem
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study is to compare 2018 Science Course Curriculum (SCC), 2015 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and 2018 High School Entrance Examination (HSE) in terms of content domains, cognitive domains and learning objectives. Qualitative research method, was used in this study. Data were analyzed using document review matrices to determine the similarities and differences between the objectives of SCC, TIMSS and HSE. SCC outcomes and HSE science questions were also classified according to TIMSS cognitive domains. Results show that the learning objectives of the fields of Physics, Biology and Earth Sciences of TIMSS are compatible with those of all grade levels of SCC and that the objectives of Chemistry are compatible with those of the seventh and eighth grades. Most of HSE questions are compatible with the objectives of SCC, however, the latest revision in the curriculum has introduced some eighth grade objectives to other grade levels. HSE science questions measure higher-level skills than TIMSS science questions. The subject domain of the “Organisms and Life” of SCC has the most learning objectives in the levels of “knowing” and “reasoning” while the subject domain of the “Physical Events” has the most learning objectives in the levels of “applying.” Besides, the seventh-, fifth- and eighth-graders have the most objectives in the levels of “knowing,” “applying,” and “reasoning,” respectively. It is hoped that the results will contribute the literature in improvement of science curricula and interpretation of national and international exams.
Evaluation of wettability characteristics and adhesion of resin composite to photo-polymerized pulp-capping materials with and without bioactive glass
Authors: Tulumbaci Fatih , Korkut Emre , Ozer Hazal , Özcan Mutlu
Published: August 2019

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate mechanical and physical properties of three different light-curable resin-based materials (TheraCal LC, Biner LC, and CalciPlus LC) with or without BAG. Material and Methods: 15 cylindrically shaped specimens (n=5) were prepared for contact angle test. The test values (?) were determined with the sessile drop method using three test liquids. 30 acrylic cylindrical blocks were prepared, and holes of (6mmx1mm) were made in the center of the cylinders for shear bond strength test. An adhesive system and a restorative composite material were applied via cylindrically shaped plastic tubes of (2mmx2mm) at the center of the light-curable resin-based material surfaces. The specimens were mounted in a universal testing machine. A crosshead speed of 1 mm/min was applied to each specimen using a knife-edge blade. Results: The highest (74.77°±13.56) and the lowest (35.35°±12.89) contact angle values were recorded for the MB Biner LC group and the CalciPlus LC, respectively. Statistically significant differences observed in contact angle values between the test groups (p<0.05). The surface free energy of Biner LC (?S 36.22) was lower than that of TheraCal LC (?S 44.70) and CalciPlus LC (?S 46.20) (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in shear bond strength values between TheraCal LC and CalciPlus LC (p>0.05). Conclusions: Hydrophilic property of Theracal LC and Calciplus LC resulted in better bonding strength in these materials. The BAG used in Calciplus LC did not adversely affect mechanical and surface properties of the material.
Antimicrobial efficacy of Novel Ethanolic Extract of Morinda Citrifolia Against Enterococcus Feacalis by Agar Well Diffusion Method and Minimal Inhibitory Concentration- An Invitro Study.
Authors: Gummuluri Sriram , Kavalipurapu Venkata Teja , Kaligotla Apoorva Vasundhara
Published: August 2019

Introduction: the long term success of root canal treatment is ultimately related to the effective debridement and disinfection of the root canal system. Hence, the irrigants play an important role in achieving the good penetrability and bactericidal activity. The present study was mainly aimed at evaluating the invitro antimicrobial efficacy of Novel Ethanolic Extract of Morinda Citrifolia by agar well diffusion and minimal inhibitory concentration. Materials and Methods:the antimicrobial efficacy of the Novel Ethanolic Extract of Morinda Citrifolia was tested using agar well diffusion and minimal inhibitory concentration was assessed. The zone of inhibitions were determined at 10 mg/ml concentration of Ethanolic Extract of Morinda Citrifolia on agar well plate and Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) against tested microorganism. Results: results obtained in the present study by both qualitative and quantitative experiments revieled that the tested Ethanolic Extract of Morinda Citrifolia possesses potential antibacterial activity against Enterococcus Feacalis when compared with standard antibiotic tetracycline. the highest zone of inhibition of 15mm was showed at 1000micrograms by agar well diffusion assay. The optimal antimicrobial activity was seen at 250micrograms for Morinda Citrifolia against Enterococcus Feacalis.Conclusion: novel Ethanolic extract of Morinda Citrifolia has shown an optimal antimicrobial activity against E.Feaclais. But still, future studies are still needed.
Behavioural perspective of tobacco use among youth of Vidarbha region of Maharashtra state in central part of India
Authors: Gaikwad Rahul Narayan
Published: August 2019

Objective: This study was conducted to find out the youth perspective about the use of tobacco and its ill effects. The survey was conducted at a private Engineering college of Nagpur, Maharashtra India. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study with self-administered modified Global youth tobacco survey (GYTS) questionnaire was used for data collection. Eight hundred nine college students of age group between 17 year-24years were included in this study. The questionnaire comprised of information on socio-demographic characteristics and questionnaire was used to gather data on knowledge, attitude and practices of participants about tobacco use. Data analysis was performed by using chi-square test and Statistical significance was measured at a level of 0.05. Result: Out of 806 total participants, 136 (16.8) were current tobacco consumers, significantly high prevalence of tobacco use was observed among boys 106 (13.1) than girls 30 (3.7). Moreover, a higher number of boys 106 (13.1) started smoking at young adolescent age (13- 20 years) than girls30 (3.7). Conclusion: The findings in the study suggest that tobacco use is still an important risk behavior amongst students. Tobacco use was comparatively higher amongst boys though its use is not restricted to them only. There is a need to plan to gather nationwide baseline data on the use of tobacco by young adolescents and the factors associated with initiation of tobacco habit.KeywordsGlobal youth tobacco survey (GYTS); Tobacco prevalence; Tobacco use among youth.
IgA antibodies against Streptococcus mutans in breast milk and saliva: Passive Immunity against caries
Authors: Mitterhofer Werônica Jaernevay Silveira , Sherma Alexandre Prado , Dos Santos Silvana Soléo Ferreira , Leão Mariella Vieira Pereira
Published: August 2019

Objective: The present work aimed to correlate the levels of IgA antibodies reactive with Streptococcus mutans antigens in the saliva and/or in the breast milk and the oral health of lactating. Material and methods: Breast milk and whole saliva samples were collected from 29 lactating. The oral health was verified using DMF scores and the volunteers were separated in three groups: 1) low DMF score; 2) high DMF score with active caries and 3) high DMF score without active caries. The IgA antibodies anti-Streptococcus mutans were analyzed in the samples using ELISA technique. Results: The results showed similar levels of IgA antibodies in all groups, both in milk and saliva. No correlation could be confirmed between the levels of IgA in the saliva and in the breast milk with the oral health of lactating studied. Conclusion: The results suggest that, independently of mother’s oral health, the newborn receive the same amounts of anti-Streptococcus mutans IgA by breastfeeding.
Biological Restorations: A foreseeable possibility in the junction between dentistry and technology
Authors: Saavedra Guilherme de Siqueira F. Anzaloni , Viegas Diogo Miguel da Costa Cabecinha Pacheco , Costa Fabio , Kano Paulo
Published: August 2019

Prosthetic rehabilitation can generate doubts among professionals regarding the type of material to choose when planning rehabilitation treatments. The establishment of reliable criteria for material selection raises frequent questions. This work presents a concept and an alternative and simplified proposal to paradigm shift in therapeutic approaches based on three trends in restorative dentistry: Biomimetics, the use of natural tissue as a restorative material, which offers potential for the recovery of the mechanical, aesthetic and biological properties of teeth; digital dentistry and CAD/CAM systems; and adhesive technology, which has undergone exponential and impressive advances. However, further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term performance of restorations in this variable field.  KeywordsAdhesion; Ceramics; Natural tooth; CAD/CAM; Oral rehabilitation; Biomimetics.
Die ökumenischen Potentiale der Theologie Karl Barths. Facetten einer eigenen Konzeptualisierung
Authors: Weinrich Michael
Published: August 2019

The ecumenical potential of Barth’s theology goes far beyond his direct participation in the ecumenical movement. The denominational character of his theology is always transcended by the act of confession which the church again and again has to formulate anew in its respective time and space. The denominational tradition remains welcome as assistance but can never take the place of the act of confessing. The contextuality of theology is essentially connected to its catholicity. Focusing on the first commandment, Barth reminds us that even the Church itself can succumb to the temptation of filling the place of God with self-imagined gods. The most promising ecumenical potential of Barth’s theology can be found in his Covenant theology according to which - based on his doctrine of election - Israel and the church are inextricably entwined with each other in the one congregation of God. The consequences this implies for ecumenism have yet to be drawn.
Oszillieren zwischen Struktur und Communitas. Ein Modell ökumenischer Theorie und Praxis in Anschluss an Victor Turner
Authors: Teuchert Lisanne
Published: August 2019

Thirty years ago, the first German translation of Victor Turner’s »The Ritual Process: Structure and Anti-Structure« was published. Since then, it has had a wide influence, amongst others, in Practical Theology. But also for interpreting the current ecumenical situation, Turner’s theory of ritual has great potential. In this essay, this situation is interpreted with Turner’s concept of liminality which oscillates between structure and anti-structure or communitas. From this point of view, there is no unfortunate gap between the ecumenism of doctrinal consensus and the ecumenism of experience. Rather, both are part of a necessary dialectical process oscillating between structure (denomination, doctrine, office) and communitas (experienced community of unity). Within this »phase change«, ecumenism remains both stable and innovative.
Über Grenzen hinweg
Authors: Kennel Gunter
Published: August 2019

Überblick

Der Beitrag zeigt, wie die Tätigkeiten von Kirchenmusikerinnen und Kirchenmusikern an den grundlegenden Dimensionen kirchlichen Handelns Anteil haben und wie sich die Kirchenmusik als solche in ihnen wiederfindet. Mit Bezug auf neuere Tendenzen der pastoraltheologischen Diskussion plädiert der Verfasser für ein multiprofessionell abgestimmtes Agieren und hebt die Chancen hervor, die ein begleiteter Berufseinstieg für Kirchenmusikerinnen wie für andere kirchliche Berufsgruppen eröffnet.
Space-time variability of the Roncador river basin in the change of land use and cover and its correlation with climatic variables
Authors: Santos Raquel de Oliveira , Delgado Rafael Coll , Pereira Marcos Gervasio , Souza Leonardo Paula de , Teodoro Paulo Eduardo , Silva Junior Carlos Antonio da , Costa Giovani Glaucio de Oliveira
Published: August 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the space-time dynamics of the soil use and occupation of the Rio Roncador river basin between 1985 and 2010. The scenes were classified by two methods (partially unsupervised - K-Means and supervised - Maximum likelihood), the Thematic Mapper sensor products on the LANDSAT 5 orbital platform were used for both images of a 25-year time series (1985 to 2000). In order to measure the accuracy of the field the computer application Google Earth was used, in which nine classes (urban area, agricultural area, pasture, exposed soil, native forest, secondary vegetation, mangrove, altitude field and water) were collected. A multiple linear regression was performed, correlating the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index - mean NDVI (dependent variable) with the independent climatic variables (global solar radiation - MJm-2day-1, average air temperature - °C, relative humidity -%, evapotranspiration - mm d-1, and rain - mm). According to the general classification by Kappa parameter of the images for 2005 and 2010, they were identified as very good (68% and 74%). These results confirm that the Roncador River Basin is undergoing transformation in its landscape, with an average reduction of -49% in native vegetation areas due to the increase in urban areas (25%) and agriculture (31%). The statistical analysis showed that rainfall and air temperature were the only variables that presented significant sigma (0.04) and (0.02). The obtained coefficient of determination indicated that 47% of the variations of the "vegetation index" are explained by the environmental variables.
Efficiency in the use of phosphorus by cowpea genotypes
Authors: Almeida Idaiane Costa Fonseca , Grangeiro Leilson Costa , Oliveira Fábio Henrique Tavares , Sousa Valdívia de Fátima Lima , Souza Matheus Freitas
Published: August 2019

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) is an edible legume with good ability to fix nitrogen and not demanding soil fertility. However, some genotypes may have a greater ability to utilize the nutrients available in the soil for their growth. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of phosphorus (P) use in genotypes of cowpea. The experiment was conducted in the field and the experimental design was a randomized complete block design with four replicates arranged in a 2 x 5 factorial scheme. The treatments consisted of two P doses (0 and 60 kg ha-1 of P2O5) and five bean genotypes (Paulistinha, BRS Xiquexique, Pingo de Ouro, Corujinha, and Costela de Vaca). Each plot was formed by four plant rows, measuring 3.0 m in length, spaced 1.0 x 0.3 m, and with two plants per hole. The genotypes responded significantly to the increase in P levels in the soil, with increases in the number of seeds per pod, number of pods per plant, productivity, dry mass, and plant P accumulation. "BRS Xiquexique" was efficient and responsive, and it could be indicated as the most appropriate for cultivation in the region. "Corujinha" is the most suitable cultivar for production in high levels of P among the creole genotypes evaluated. "Costela de Vaca" and "Paulistinha" can be indicated for low P production in the soil. low P production.
Resistance of bioenergy sorghum to Diatraea saccharalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)
Authors: Araújo Octavio Gabryel , Mendes Simone Martins , Vilella Michelle , Silveira Luis Cláudio Paterno , Simeone Maria Lucia Ferreira , Fadini Marcus Antonio Matiello , Parrella Rafael Augusto da Costa
Published: August 2019

This study evaluated the effects of the sugarcane borer Diatraea saccharalis (Fabricius, 1794) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) on cultivars of sweet and biomass sorghum for the selection of resistant cultivars. The present work consisted of two trials, with natural pest infestation. In the first one, 10 sweet sorghum cultivars were analyzed for the following variables: plant height, number of healthy and damaged internodes, gallery position and size, stem infestation level and soluble solids content (°Brix). In the second trial, it was analyzed 16 genotypes of high biomass sorghum, with the same variables above mentioned, in addition to the lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose contents. Among sweet sorghum genotypes evaluated, the genotype CMSXS647 stood out due to the traits: plant height, infestation level, gallery size and soluble solids content. Among the sorghum genotypes evaluated, CMSXS7030, CMSXS7012 and CMSXS7028 presented ideal characteristics for infestation level, plant height and number of lignocellulosic compounds. Such information, in addition to supporting the bioenergy sorghum breeding program, will assist in integrated pest management for sorghum cultivation.
Effect of systemic administration of phytosterol on lacrimal quality of dogs
Authors: Dias Fernanda Gosuen Gonçalves , Cristino Brenda Martins , Silva Claudianara Ávila , Magalhães Larissa Fernandes , Honsho Cristiane dos Santos , Furtado Ricardo Andrade , Sasahara Tais Harumi de Castro , Pereira Lucas de Freitas , Jorge Adriana Torrecilhas
Published: August 2019

The tear lipid layer (oily outer layer) reduces evaporation and prevents tear overflow. In dogs, reductions in the lipid components of this layer (cholesterol, triglycerides and phospholipids) can cause eye serious diseases. In this way, the tear crystallization test analyzes the lacrimal quality, however, it is less used in veterinary. As phytosterol reduces blood cholesterol, the objective of this study was to investigate, through the tear crystallization test, whether the systemic administration of this drug influences the lacrimal quality of healthy dogs and, in addition, to verify differences in the interpretation of the ophthalmic test between different evaluators. Eight beagles, healthy, of both sexes, young and adults, without clinical ophthalmic signs apparent were selected. Basal lacrimal samples (D0) were collected from the right and left eye of all animals with glass capillary tube and arranged on a glass slide for scanning the images and subsequent microscopic analysis. Subsequently, all were medicated with the phytosterol (Collestra® 650 mg: 1 capsule, orally, every 12 hours, for 15 days). After seven (D7) and fifteen (D15) days of this systemic administration, the tear crystallization test in both eyes of all dogs was again performed for statistical comparison with the baseline results. The photographs of the slides were classified by four evaluators (AV1 and AV2 with professional experience in ophthalmology and AV3 and AV4 without previous professional experience in ophthalmology), following standards established by Rolando (1984). The results were statistically verified by analysis of simple variance (ANOVA One-Way). There was no statistical difference in the tear crystallization test between the established periods and in relation to the different ophthalmic test evaluators (p≤0.05). Although phytosterols reduce blood cholesterol levels, it was observed in the present study that these drugs when administered systemically did not interfere in the tear lipid layer and, consequently, in the lacrimal quality of healthy dogs, and may be prescribed as lipid-lowering agents for patients with ocular diseases, especially the lacrimal ones.
Low level resistance of wild poinsettia biotypes to glyphosate and alternative chemical control
Authors: Agostinetto Dirceu , Ulguim André da Rosa , Zandoná Renan Ricardo , Da Silva Jéssica Dias Gomes , Da Silva Bruno Moncks , Várgas Leandro
Published: August 2019

In the State of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Southern Brazil, glyphosate has not been capable of controlling wild poinsettia (Euphorbia heterophylla L.) in soybean fields, thus, suggesting resistance to this herbicide. Therefore, this study aimed at evaluating sensitivity of wild poinsettia biotypes to glyphosate, identifying the occurrence of resistance of wild poinsettia to the herbicide in RS state and determining the resistance factor of wild poinsettia biotypes under suspicion, besides assessing other herbicides as alternative controls. Two greenhouse experiments, which lasted two years, were conducted by a completely randomized design with four replications. Six biotypes (Factor A) and eight doses of glyphosate (Factor B) were used for getting the dose-response curve. Regarding the alternative control, post-emergence herbicides for soybean and corn crops were tested. Control and dry mass of the shoot were analyzed as variables. Resistance factors of resistant biotypes 20.2 and 21.1 were 4.83 and 5.29, respectively, by comparison with the susceptible biotype (11.4). In RS state, there has currently been high selection pressure due to the intensive use of glyphosate against wild poinsettia plants, as the result of the occurrence of biotypes 20.2 and 21.1 which have low levels of resistance to glyphosate and very little control by ALS-inhibiting herbicides. Therefore, an alternative to mitigate the problem is the use of herbicides with different mechanisms of action.
Soils characterization and classification in clean field, dirty field and forest areas in amazonian environments
Authors: Franciscon Uilson , Costa Campos Milton César , Campos Mantovanelli Bruno , Coutrim dos Santos Luís Antonio , Cunha José Maurício da , Chechi Leonardo , Oliveira Ivanildo Amorim de
Published: August 2019

The soil and vegetation characteristics of the southern Amazonas region include highly weathered soils, high aluminum content and some hydromorphic conditions, its vegetation is composed from grasslands to small isolated trees and forest galleries along the rivers streams. In this way, this work aims to characterize and classify the soil in areas of clean field, dirty field, and forest in Humaitá region AM. Soil trenches were opened in the clean field, dirty field, and forest environments, soil profiles were morphologically characterized, and samples were collected from their horizons. Physical analysis of texture, dispersed clay in water, flocculation, bulk density, particle density and porosity were performed. The chemical analyzes included pH and KCl in water; Ca, Mg, K, Al, and; available P; H+Al and organic C; SiO2, Al2O3 and Fe2O3 sulfuric attack. The soils were classified according to criteria established by the Brazilian System of Soil Classification and Soil Taxonomy. The forest, dirty field (high) and clean field (low) showed different soil types, Typic Dystrudept for the first two environments and Typic Fluvaquents for last. Multivariate techniques expressed the similarity relations presenting between the different environments studied, characterizing, which are of great importance in the relation landscape-soil studies.