bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validación del cuestionario pediátrico de sueño en la población colombiana. / Validation of the pediatric sleep questionnaire in colombian population.
Authors: Villalobos Aguirre María Camila , Peña Valenzuela Alberto , Restrepo Gualteros Sonia María
Published: February 2020

Introducción: El síndrome de apnea e hipopnea obstructiva del sueño es una patología frecuente en la población pediátrica que genera un alto impacto en la calidad de vida tanto de los pacientes como de sus familias. Objetivo: Realizar la validación del Cuestionario Pediátrico de Sueño a la población pediátrica colombiana a grandes alturas y determinar si existe asociación entre los hallazgos en el cuestionario y los hallazgos polisomnográficos. Diseño: Observacional analítico prospectivo. Materiales y métodos: Este estudio fue realizado a 2,600 metros sobre el nivel del mar. Se incluyeron 121 pacientes entre 2 y 18 años, candidatos a adeno/amigdalectomía a los que se les aplicó el cuestionario pediátrico de sueño, y fue sometido a un proceso de validación específico para la población colombiana. Resultados: No se obtuvo una correlación de los resultados del cuestionario con los resultados de severidad de la enfermedad en el polisomnograma. Discusión: El cuestionario pediátrico de sueño (PSQ) fue sometido a un proceso de validación específico para la población colombiana a grandes alturas. Sin embargo, dado que los ítems A24, A25, B7, B9, y B22 se determinaron como redundantes, se podría proponer una escala condensada específica para la población colombiana, omitiendo estas preguntas. Conclusiones: El cuestionario pediátrico de sueño (PSQ) fue validado satisfactoriamente a la población colombiana habitante de grandes alturas. Sin embargo, se propone una modificación, eliminando las preguntas A24, A25, B7, B9, y B22, logrando un cuestionario más corto y simplificado, sin tener efectos sobre la validez del mismo.
The Genetic Profile of Thrombophilia in Reproductive Disorders
Authors: Cozaru Georgeta Camelia , Aschie Mariana , Mitroi Anca , Brinzan Costel , Chisoi Anca
Published: February 2020

Some cases of reproductive disorders have a thrombotic etiology. Considering the importance of establishing the cause of miscarriage, we investigated the incidence and associated risks of the most common thrombophilic genes polymorphism - FV G1691A, FV H1299A, Prothrombin G20210A, PAI-1, Factor XIII V34L, MTHFR C677T, MTHFR A1298C and EPCR genes, in women with reproductive disorders. In our research we included 139 women with reproductive disorders and risk for hereditary trombophilia and 139 healthy females without any personal or family history of vein thrombosis or recurrent pregnancy loss. For detection of thrombophilic genes polymorphism we used CVD StripAssay�(ViennaLab, Austria) and the tests� protocols were followed as described by the manufacturer. Our results showed that the concomitant presence of MTHFR A1298C and Factor XIII V34L gene polymorphism had a significant association for recurrent pregnancy loss, while FV H1299A (R2) and MTHFR A1298C gene polymorphisms were correlated with subfertility. We therefore consider that these patients should be recognized as high risk for poor pregnancy outcomes and monitored with specialized follow-up.
The Role of BCL2 Protein and Tumour Protein p53 in Septic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Reil Peter Michael , Maghiar Teodor Traian , Seidl Karlheinz , Borza Ciprian , Nunkoo Vharoon , Buhas Camelia Liana , Bungau Simona , Stanescu Ana Maria Alexandra , Pop Ovidiu Laurean , Judea Pusta Claudia Teodora
Published: February 2020

A decreased left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was observed in patients suffering from septic shock with normalization of systolic function after 10 days.�Similar courses of reversible myocardial dysfunction due to the systemic inflammatory response syndrome were also encountered in other critical illnesses. Since the pathological and histological mechanisms are not fully understood, the present study tries to understand the septic cardiomyopathy related to the apoptotic pathway. Thestudy included a number of 29�cases of adults that died of septic shock being analysed for BCL2 and p53 expression rates of myocardial tissue. This is the first time the expression of BCL2 protein, p53 tumour protein were evaluated in septic shock and septic cardiomyopathy of humans.�There was a strong link between the increased expression of BCL2 and of p53 protein in cardiac muscle cells in the studied group (p=0.0300).�The study showed a significant correlation between markedly increased values and poor outcome.
Group A Streptococcal Infection - Biochemical and Pharmacological Aspects
Authors: Nedelcuta Ramona Mihaela , Baleanu Vlad Dumitru , Davitoiu Dragos Virgil , Tenea Cojan Tiberiu Stefanita , Pascal Anca , Socea Bogdan , Ciora Cosmin Alexandru , Calin Gigi
Published: February 2020

The medicine of the last years is evidence-based - most of the theoretical information that has occurred in the past 10 years is already out of date.The Axioma of Classical Pediatrics - Any Group A Haemolytic Beta Streptococcus must be treated with Penicillin G is no longer relevant The results of a study at the Hospital Philanthropy from Craiova are not at all surprising, overlapped with those found in medical practice.Age entails moving the diagnosis to the baby, sensitivity to penicillin occurs in only � of children, microbial resistance to the antibiotic is common in many antibiotics.
Variation of Static Frictional Forces in the Fixed Orthodontic System
Authors: Dragomirescu Anca Oana , Teodorescu Elina , Tarmure Viorica , Baluta Andreea , Pacurar Mariana , Nenovici Dorin , Chibelean Manuela , Ionescu Ecaterina
Published: February 2020

Currently, the aesthetic appearance of fixed orthodontic appliances is an important factor for patients seeking orthodontic treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate static frictional forces generated by different types of round 0.016` NiTi archwires, with and without aesthetic coating, when coupled with monocrystalline alumina brackets. The static frictional force was determined using a testing machine for measuring compression and tension forces. The results showed a variation of static frictional forces depending on the type of archwire used. Uncoated archwires have produced the lowest static frictional forces. Partially aesthetic coated archwires have generated lower static frictional forces than fully aesthetic coated ones. Fully aesthetic coated archwires have produced the highest static frictional forces, but no significant differences were noted between archwires with polymer and epoxy resin coating.
Study About HPLC Method Elaboration and Validation for Acid Lactic Assay in Grape Juice Fermentation Process
Authors: Bota Sanda Rodica , Cozma Alina Claudia , Caraban Alina Maria
Published: February 2020

In the present study, a simple and fast HPLC procedure has been developed for determination of a wide range of lactic acid concentrations. During the lactic acid analysis, the analytic column,YMC-Pack ODS AQ, was operating at 20oC. The mobile phase, 0.03% H3PO4:acetonitrile (88:12), was delivered isocratic, at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min, in a 25 min run. The method was validate. The method could successfully used to quantify lactic acid in grape juice during fermentation.
Microbiological Evaluation of Surgical Site Infections in the Clinic of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of the Sf.Spiridon Clinical Hospital in Iasi, Romania
Authors: Barlean Magda Calina , Balcos Carina , Bobu Livia Ionela , Cretu Cosmin Ionut , Platon Alexandra Lorina , Stupu Anca , Nicolaiciuc Ovidiu , Topor Gabi , Beznea Adrian , Popescu Eugenia
Published: February 2020

The study aims to evaluatethe bacteriological profile of the surgical site infections at the Clinic of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of the Sf.Spiridon Clinical Hospital in Iasi, Romania between 2011 and 2018. Microbiological data were obtained from the Microbiology Laboratory of the Sf.Spiridon Emergency Clinical Hospital Iasi. 125 surgical site infections, accounting for 54,1% of health care associated infections were reported in 106 patients, representing 66,6% of the patients with HAI. The most commonly identified pathogens were Klebsiella Pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Acinetobacter baumanii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.A high level of antibiotic resistance was reported. Prevention of SSI and antibiotic resistance control are complex and require coordinated measures in view of an integrated, multidisciplinary approach.
Improving the Mechanical Behavior of a Helicopter Tail Rotor Blade Through the Use of Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Voicu Andrei Daniel , Hadar Anton , Vlascean Daniel
Published: February 2020

The tail rotor blade represents a very important component in the structure of any helicopter, being subjected to many aerodynamic loads. The integrity of this component is essential for maintaining flight safety and improving its characteristics can increase the overall performance of the helicopter. Thus, in some cases, some improvements can be made to the structure, in order to reduce the weight of the component and to improve its mechanical properties and its reliability in flight. The current paper presents a comparative result analysis in the study of the tail rotor blade of the IAR 330 helicopter, where the honeycomb hexagonal core made of aluminum alloy is replaced with a full structural core made of polyurethane foam. The result of the analysis is of practical importance, because it shows the benefits of using polymers in the construction of helicopter rotor blades and similar structures.
Creando un Puente Cultural entre China y Panamá.
Authors: Mon Ramón
Published: February 2020

Para establecer un puente cultural entre dos grupos étnicos diferentes tenemos que revisar los “momentos de encuentro” entre ambos grupos y los fenómenos psicosociales que se generan a partir dichos encuentros. Podemos iniciar un análisis del encuentro de la cultura china con la cultura panameña tomando como base los datos, fundamentalmente historiográficos con los que contamos al presente y a partir de ahí definir aquel material de análisis que nos falte por estudiar.Sin entrar en detalles podemos mencionar dos momentos macros en que Asia ha estado en contacto con América y en particular resaltar aquellos encuentros entre los propiamente chinos y los americanos, específicamente con los habitantes de nuestro país.
Historia constructiva del Complejo Monástico de la Compañía de Jesús en el Casco Antiguo de Panamá y análisis de su tutela.
Authors: Cid Patricia
Published: February 2020

El Complejo de la Compañía de Jesús ha sido formado en su historia constructiva, por edificios e iglesias realizados a finales del siglo XVII y a mediados del siglo XVIII que representan etapas significativas en el desarrollo de la sociedad colonial española en Panamá y de sus locales. Sus atributos forman parte y transmiten el “Valor Universal Excepcional” del Casco Antiguo de Panamá los cuales, se ven reflejados en la traza urbana, la dimensión y distribución de los lotes de terreno asignados y en sus características iniciales de fortaleza realizadas por las órdenes religiosas dentro de este Centro Histórico.En la actualidad, el polígono que ocupaban sus edificaciones son parte de una única unidad de reconocido valor urbano, arquitectónico e histórico debido al proceso evolutivo que encierran las características estéticas y constructivas de su Complejo, a su condición original de “conjunto urbano” y, a la importancia religiosa y de instrucción académica y moral que realizó la Orden de la Compañía de Jesús desde sus inicios como Colegio Seminario en el siglo XVII y primeras décadas del siglo XVIII hasta que se edificó la Real y Pontificia Universidad de San Javier de Panamá en el siglo XVIII la cual, además, fue la primera universidad en el país y que pretendió alcanzar una posición de reconocimiento en América, al nivel de las prestigiosas Universidades de Bogotá, Quito y Lima.
Efecto del uso de estrategias innovadoras en el proceso enseñanza–aprendizaje de las matemáticas en estudiantes de primer año universitario.
Authors: Castro Hilmar
Published: February 2020

El propósito de esta investigación ha sido evaluar la implementación de estrategias innovadoras que faciliten el aprendizaje por parte de los estudiantes, y determinar el efecto de la aplicación de estas estrategias y técnicas en la enseñanza de las matemáticas a estudiantes de primer año en Quality Leadership University (QLU), específicamente en el curso de Algebra. El enfoque de esta investigación es principalmente cualitativo. La población de este estudio está representada por los estudiantes de QLU que toman el curso de Algebra en el período 1 de 2018, en total 55 estudiantes. A fin de recopilar la información relacionada al proceso de aprendizaje, se diseñaron dos instrumentos: un pre-test y un examen final. Una vez recogidos los datos del pre-test y del examen final se aplicaron herramientas estadísticas para describir los datos y tratar de hallar relaciones entre las pruebas. Del pre-test se pudo determinar que el 45% de los estudiantes no tienen las competencias necesarias para desarrollar satisfactoriamente un curso de algebra de nivel universitario. Sin embargo, al final del curso despues de aplicar las estrategias innovadoras de enseñanza, se obtuvo un 65% de estudiantes aprobados, 10% mas de lo que se esperaba a priori. Mas aún de ese 45% que no estaba preparado, el 40% pudo aprobar el curso de manera satisfactoria. Se puede concluir que las estrategias innovadoras tienen un efecto positivo en el proceso de enseñanza aprendizaje de los estudiantes de primer año de QLU.
Estudo das funções narrativas e estilísticas de sombras e sons nos filmes de influência expressionista O anjo azul e M – o vampiro de Düsseldorf.
Authors: Robalino Juan Francisco Celín
Published: February 2020

In the cinematography of German Expressionism, the lighting forms dark atmospheres inhabited by sinister characters whose distorted and enlarged shadows represent their negative burden. The contrast between light and shadow is crucial in the mise-en-scène of the films “Das Cabinet des Dr. Caligari” and “Nosferatu”, in which the narrative and stylistic functions of the shadow are evidenced in the composition of the scenes. Also in the transition of the so-called “silent cinema” to the sound cinema, the expressionist influence directors Josef von Sternberg and Fritz Lang, in works such as The Blue Angel and M – the vampire of Düsseldorf, have conferred dramatic value on the sound elements through the use of synchronous and asynchronous sound. In these works, the sound elements contribute to the creation of frightening atmospheres that replace the shadows or that, adding to them, increase the dramatic tension of the scenes. Subsequently, this junction of the shadows and the sound elements for the purpose of creating dramatic effects will be widely explored by sound cinema, especially in the genres of suspense and terror.
PENGARUH PENANAMAN MODAL ASING DAN UTANG LUAR NEGERI TERHADAP PERTUMBUHAN EKONOMI INDONESIA
Authors: Arsyad Rahmat
Published: February 2020

This study aims to know how the influence of Foreign Investment and Foreign Debt on economic growth in Indonesia. This research uses data from Bank Indonesia (BI) and Central Statistics Agency (BPS) Publication reports. The data analysis method used is multiple linear regression. Before using this method, the data must be tested with the classic assumption test that is normality test and other tests. The observation period is from 2010 to 2017. Based on the normality test, the

 data is normally distributed, and the classical assumptions are  fulfilled means that we can use multiple linear regression methods. The results showed that foreign investment had a significant effect on economic growth in Indonesia, while foreign debt did not significantly influence Indonesia's economic growth. The predictive ability for the two independent variables on Economic Growth in this study is around 66.2%, while the rest is influenced by other factors
PENGARUH STRATEGI PEMASARAN TERHADAP KEPUASAN DAN KEPUTUSAN PEMBELIAN PRODUK USAHA KECIL MENENGAH (UKM) 310 DI MAKASSAR
Authors: Naninsih Nur , Hardiyono Hardiyono
Published: February 2020

This study aims to determine the effect of marketing strategies on satisfaction and purchasing decisions for small and medium enterprises (UKM) 310 in Makassar. This research uses quantitative research. Quantitative research is a process of finding knowledge that uses data in the form of numbers as a tool to analyze information about what you want to know. The results of this study found that partially marketing strategies have a positive and significant effect on buyer satisfaction, marketing strategies have a positive and significant effect on purchasing decisions, and satisfaction has a positive and significant effect on purchasing decisions. The indirect influence shows that marketing strategies have a positive and significant effect on purchasing decisions through satisfaction.
PENGARUH MOTIVASI KERJA, PELATIHAN DAN KEPUASAN KERJA TERHADAP PRESTASI KERJA PEGAWAI PADA KANTOR KECAMATAN MAJAULENG KABUPATEN WAJO
Authors: Ardasanti Andi
Published: February 2020

Work motivation, training and job satisfaction towards Employee Work Achievement at Majauleng District Office in Wajo Regency, both partially and simultaneously.

This study uses a survey research design model that uses correlational using a quantitative approach. Correlational research discusses explaining that there is no relationship or relationship between various variables based on the size of the coefficient in question.

The population in this study were all employees at the Majauleng District Office in Wajo District as many as 72 employees. Sampling of this study was carried out using saturated samples or census techniques, namely all populations were made as samples. Quantitative data analysis techniques obtained from the results of questionnaires using multiple linear regression analysis (multiple regression analysis).

The results showed that partially simultaneous, motivation, training and positive job satisfaction were significant and significant for employee work performance at Majauleng District Office, Wajo District.
Violencia de género en Sudán del Sur, impacto y trabajo de Médicos del Mundo
Authors: Saiz Bermejo Helea
Published: February 2020

Sudán del Sur, uno de los países más jóvenes del mundo, se encuentra en una situación de emergencia compleja y crítica. Se consideran aspectos como las diferentes características antropológicas y culturales de la población, el conflicto prolongado que ha provocado millones de personas desplazadas, cuestiones de vulnerabilidad crónica, inseguridad alimentaria, desnutrición y servicios de salud débiles. Con una baja tasa de alfabetización, en el país no existe una ley específica sobre violencia de género y mujeres y niñas y en especial los hogares encabezados por mujeres y menores, están más expuestas y son más vulnerables a las agresiones sexuales mientras llevan a cabo tareas cotidianas como la búsqueda de agua o leña. La red de Médicos del Mundo ha estado presente en Sudán del Sur antes y después de la independencia del país y los primeros proyectos de la organización datan de 2003 implementándose en Sudán durante el conflicto en Darfur. En este trabajo se realiza un repaso a los proyectos en la zona y se presentan las acciones de continuidad de Médicos del Mundo en Sudán del Sur respecto a violencia de género.
Model Sistem Informasi Risalah Lelang di Kantor Pelayanan Kekayaan Negara dan Lelang Kota Cirebon dengan Metode Clustering Algoritma C45
Authors: Astuti Rini , Nurhidayat
Published: February 2020

Risalah lelang merupakan berita acara, informasi proses pelelangan atau akta otentik dengan kekuatan pembuktian sempurna yang dibuat oleh pejabat lelang dari pembelian suatu barang melalui proses lelang. Risalah lelang juga dapat digunakan dalam membantu mencari informasi pemenang lelang, ataupun banyaknya barang yang tidak terjual, barang yang berhasil terjual maupun jenis barang yang paling banyak terjual dalam proses lelang. Sistem Informasi Risalah Lelang merupakan suatu kumpulan dari komponen-komponen dalam perusahaan atau organisasi yang berhubungan dengan proses penciptaan dan pengaliran informasi tentang risalah lelang atau berita acara proses lelang.

Pengembangan sistem informasi risalah lelang berbasis web menerapkan pengelompokan dengan  menggunakan Algoritma C45 dengan metode clustering, clustering merupakan proses yang digunakan untuk mengelompokkan objek sesuai informasi yang diperoleh dari data yang menyamakan anggota dalam kelasnya. Pendekatan proses pengembangan yang digunakan adalah pendekatan berorientasi objek dengan tool UML dengan model proses prototyping.

Melalui sistem ini, dapat memudahkan proses pencarian informasi risalah lelang pada Kantor Kekayaan Negara dan Lelang kota Cirebon. Serta dapat memudahkan dalam penyajian informasi berupa data lelang terbanyak dan sebagainya, juga mampu meningkatkan kualitas kerja pegawai dalam hal pemanfaatan waktu dan meningkatkan pelayanan.
IDENTIFICACIÓN DE CUENTAS DE COLLAR DE MARGARELLA (THIELE, 1893) EN UN ENTIERRO PREHISTÓRICO EN LA DESEMBOCADURA DEL RÍO SANTA CRUZ (PATAGONIA ARGENTINA)
Authors: Zubimendi Miguel Ángel , Franco Nora V. , Fiore Danae , Castro Alicia , Compagno Zoan Clara
Published: February 2020

En este trabajo se presenta el estudio de los restos malacológicos recuperados en el sitio Cerro Bonete o Pillay Mahuiza 1 en la costa sur de la desembocadura del río Santa Cruz (Patagonia), encontrado en situación de alto riesgo por factores culturales y naturales. Este sitio corresponde a un entierro individual, parcialmente excavado y datado en ca. 1100 años AP. Se describe la metodología empleada en la identificación taxonómica de los restos malacolófaunísticos, así como los resultados del análisis que permitió identificarlos como artefactos, más específicamente como probables cuentas automorfas para ornamento personal. Finalmente, se contextualizan los resultados en el marco de los antecedentes existentes relativos a la presencia de valvas en la arqueología en la Patagonia continental argentina y el archipiélago Fueguino.
APORTE DE LOS MICROVESTIGIOS LÍTICOS AL ESTUDIO DE LOS PROCESOS DE FORMACIÓN DEL SITIO LA REPRESA (PROVINCIA DE BUENOS AIRES)
Authors: Staropoli Laura
Published: February 2020

En este trabajo se presentan los resultados del análisis de los microvestigios líticos del sitio La Represa, situado en el Área Interserrana Bonaerense (Provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina), correspondiente a una ocupación de cazadores-recolectores del Holoceno tardío. El objetivo general es estudiar los procesos de formación del registro arqueológico para determinar los agentes culturales y naturales que intervinieron en la generación y modificación de los materiales depositados. Asimismo, dicho estudio se propone evaluar el potencial del análisis de estos tipos de restos para determinar qué información pueden brindar a las investigaciones en sitios similares del área. Para ello, se utilizó una metodología que combina técnicas de recuperación y análisis utilizados en sedimentología con los estudios morfológicos/tipológicos tradicionales y la tafonomía de artefactos líticos. El estudio de este tipo de vestigios ya ha demostrado ser útil para discutir el comportamiento humano en el pasado en otros contextos arqueológicos, ofreciendo una nueva perspectiva de análisis.
Les écritures de l’économie au Moyen Âge
Authors: Feller Laurent
Published: February 2020

Les études sur l’écriture pragmatique ont contribué à modifier le regard porté sur la vie économique médiévale en amenant à intégrer le processus de production documentaire à l’étude de la production, de l’échange et de la consommation. Les matériaux écrits grâce auxquels on étudie l’histoire ont été eux-mêmes produits dans des finalités et avec des conceptions dont on ne peut faire abstraction. Alors que le champ de l’histoire politique et administrative est largement couvert depuis les études de Michael Clanchy et de Paolo Cammarosano, celui de l’histoire de l’économie est assez largement resté en marge. Or, l’écriture fait partie intégrante du processus par lesquels les hommes fabriquent, transforment et déplacent des objets pour en faire commerce. On s’est par conséquent proposé d’aborder dans ces pages les questions que pose l’emploi de l’écriture dans ce contexte. La complexification et la diversification des rapports de production comme celle des objets produits entraîne une multiplication des outils et instruments aux fonctions nombreuses qui éclairent toute sorte d’aspects de la vie sociale à travers les questions de production, d’échange et de prélèvement.
Les testaments, l’usure, les statuts
Authors: Duval Sylvie
Published: February 2020

À la fin du xiiie siècle, le deuxième concile de Lyon (1274) prend acte du lien existant entre testaments et restitution des usures post mortem : avec la constitution Quamquam, les pères conciliaires réglementent cette pratique, et demandent en outre aux testateurs une caution garantissant la restitution. Les constitutions synodales toscanes du début du xive siècle intègrent cette nouvelle norme, en instaurant des règles très précises à ce sujet, destinées aux curés, aux testateurs et aux notaires. Le thème de l’usure, toutefois, est aussi amplement abordé dans les statuts communaux. Se crée donc ainsi, à propos de l’usure et de sa restitution, une concurrence entre différents types de législations, amplement documentée dans le cas de Pise. À travers l’examen des constitutions de l’archevêque Simone Saltarelli (1324), des statuts communaux contemporains et de documents nous permettant de comprendre comment ces différentes législations étaient effectivement appliquées (testaments, procès), la présente étude montre que cette concurrence était à l’origine d’une certaine inquiétude chez les citoyens « pécheurs » (comment concilier restitution des usures et transmission des biens ?), mais qu’elle pouvait aussi, du moins pour ceux qui étaient assistés par des juristes compétents, créer des espaces de liberté.
Nudge Theory and Decision Making
Authors: Patil Vikramsinh Amarsinh
Published: February 2020

This chapter examines the theoretical underpinnings of nudge theory and makes a case for incorporating nudging into the decision-making process in corporate contexts. Nudging and more broadly behavioural economics have become buzzwords on account of the seminal work that has been done by economists and highly publicized interventions employed by governments to support national priorities. Firms are not to be left behind, however. What follows is extensive documentation of such firms that have successfully employed nudging techniques. The examples are segmented by the nudge recipient, namely - managers, employees, and consumers. Firms can guide managers to become better leaders, employees to become more productive, and consumers to stay loyal. However, nudging is not without its pitfalls. It can be used towards nefarious ends and be notoriously difficult to implement and execute. Therefore, nudges should be rigorously tested via experimentation and should be ethically sound.
The Effect of e-Finance Service Quality on Bank Customers' Fintech e-Loyalty
Authors: Jerene Wondwossen , Sharma Dhiraj
Published: February 2020

The expansion of information communication technology (ICT) significantly influences organizations service delivering culture. The financial institutions, particularly the banking industry are one of the major sectors that invests large amount of capital for introducing new technologies. E-finance is one of the technology channels that bankers introduced to their customers to access financial services. Therefore, this study was aimed to study the effect of e-finance service quality on bank customers' fintech loyalty of using the e-finance services in future. Primary data was collected from 412 bank customers and it was analyzed using the structural equation model (SEM) through AMOS. The result revealed that both in normal operations of e-finance service and recovery services, the quality of service positively influences bank customers' satisfaction and their e-loyalty.
Employee Experience Management
Authors: Itam Urmila , Ghosh Nitu
Published: February 2020

Experimental organizations must rebuild their people management practices in accommodating multi-generational workforces. The idea of keeping employee experience as a central theme in strategy making has a positive impact on business performance in many ways. The main purpose of this article is to explore the concept of employee experience in the current HR context and identify its drivers and key outcomes. The study considered the four-phase research process: the physical space; the human experience; and the digital realm are the three important dimensions of employee experience. Top management in association with the new HR approach to set the tone and stage for a positive employee experience, not only increases employee satisfaction and productivity, but also engages the multi-generational workforce, competitive advantage, and sustainable growth. The scope for the further study could include the quantitative testing of the developed design, in addition to looking more in depth of the antecedents and consequences of a positive employee experience.
Acceptance and Effectiveness of Rain Classroom in Linguistics Classes
Authors: Yu Zhonggen , Yi Han
Published: February 2020

Rain Classroom, a mobile learning technology developed in China, has received great popularity. Research into its acceptance and effectiveness, however, remains sparse. Through research instruments, i.e. a questionnaire adapted from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), a semi-structured interview and linguistics knowledge tests, both quantitative and qualitative data were obtained to test research hypotheses. It was concluded that (1) Rain Classroom possesses significantly higher acceptance than traditional multimedia projecting systems in terms of performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, and attitude at the significance level .05; and (2) Rain Classroom contributes to significantly higher linguistics knowledge gain than traditional multimedia projecting systems at the significance level .05. Future research could aim to improve and enhance the functions of Rain Classroom in order to pursue higher acceptance and effectiveness. Cross-disciplinary research could also be conducted to test its acceptance and effectiveness.
Deep Learning on Digital Image Splicing Detection Using CFA Artifacts
Authors: Hussien Nadheer Younus , Mahmoud Rasha O. , Zayed Hala Helmi
Published: February 2020

Digital image forgery is a serious problem of an increasing attention from the research society. Image splicing is a well-known type of digital image forgery in which the forged image is synthesized from two or more images. Splicing forgery detection is more challenging when compared with other forgery types because the forged image does not contain any duplicated regions. In addition, unavailability of source images introduces no evidence about the forgery process. In this study, an automated image splicing forgery detection scheme is presented. It depends on extracting the feature of images based on the analysis of color filter array (CFA). A feature reduction process is performed using principal component analysis (PCA) to reduce the dimensionality of the resulting feature vectors. A deep belief network-based classifier is built and trained to classify the tested images as authentic or spliced images. The proposed scheme is evaluated through a set of experiments on Columbia Image Splicing Detection Evaluation Dataset (CISDED) under different scenarios including adding postprocessing on the spliced images such JPEG compression and Gaussian Noise. The obtained results reveal that the proposed scheme exhibits a promising performance with 95.05% precision, 94.05% recall, 94.05% true positive rate, and 98.197% accuracy. Moreover, the obtained results show the superiority of the proposed scheme compared to other recent splicing detection method.
Towards Extract-Transform-Load Operations in a Big Data context
Authors: Mallek Hana , Ghozzi Faiza , Gargouri Faiez
Published: February 2020

Big Data emerged after a big explosion of data from the Web 2.0, digital sensors, and social media applications such as Facebook, Twitter, etc. In this constant growth of data, many domains are influenced, especially the decisional support system domain, where the integration of processes should be adapted to support this huge amount of data to improve analysis goals. The basic purpose of this research article is to adapt extract-transform-load processes with Big Data technologies, in order to support not only this evolution of data but also the knowledge discovery. In this article, a new approach called Big Dimensional ETL (BigDimETL) is suggested to deal with ETL basic operations and take into account the multidimensional structure. In order to accelerate data handling, the MapReduce paradigm is used to enhance data warehousing capabilities and HBase as a distributed storage mechanism. Experimental results confirm that the ETL operation performs well especially with adapted operations.
Ablation of IL-33 Suppresses Th2 Responses but Is Accompanied by Sustained Mucus Obstruction in the Scnn1b Transgenic Mouse Model
Authors: Lewis Brandon W. , Vo Thao , Choudhary Ishita , Kidder Allison , Bathula Chandra , Ehre Camille , Wakamatsu Nobuko , Patial Sonika , Saini Yogesh
Published: February 2020

Cystic fibrosis is characterized by dehydration of the airway surface liquid layer with persistent mucus obstruction. Th2 immune responses are often manifested as increased mucous cell density (mucous cell metaplasia) associated with mucus obstruction. IL-33 is a known inducer of Th2 immune responses, but its roles in mucus obstruction and related phenotypes in a cystic fibrosis–like lung disease model (i.e., Scnn1b-Tg–positive [Tg+]) mouse, remain unclear. Accordingly, IL-33 knockout (IL-33KO) Tg+ mice were examined and compared with IL-33 heterozygous (IL-33HET) Tg+ mice. As compared with IL-33HET/Tg+ mice, IL-33KO/Tg+ mice had complete absence of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid eosinophilia, accompanied with significant reduction in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid concentration of IL-5, a cytokine associated with eosinophil differentiation and recruitment, and IL-4, a major Th2 cytokine. As compared with IL-33HET/Tg+ mice, IL-33KO/Tg+ mice had significantly reduced levels of Th2-associated gene signatures (Slc26a4, Clca1, Retnla, and Chi3l4), along with complete loss of intracellular mucopolysaccharide staining in the airway epithelium. As compared with IL-33HET/Tg+ mice, although the IL-33KO/Tg+ mice had significantly reduced levels of MUC5AC protein expression, they showed no reduction in the degree of mucus obstruction, MUC5B protein expression, bacterial burden, and neonatal mortality. Interestingly, the histological features, including subepithelial airway inflammation and alveolar space enlargement, were somewhat exaggerated in IL-33KO/Tg+ mice compared with IL-33HET/Tg+ mice. Taken together, our data indicate that although IL-33 modulates Th2 inflammatory responses and MUC5AC protein production, mucus obstruction is not dependent on IL-33.
Discrepancy for convex bodies with isolated flat points
Authors: Brandolini Luca , Colzani Leonardo , Gariboldi Bianca , Gigante Giacomo , Travaglini Giancarlo
Published: February 2020

We consider the discrepancy of the integer lattice with respect to the collection of all translated copies of a dilated convex body having a finite number of flat, possibly non-smooth, points in its boundary. We estimate the

L^p

norm of the discrepancy with respect to the translation variable, as the dilation parameter goes to infinity. If there is a single flat point with normal in a rational direction we obtain, for certain values of

p

, an asymptotic expansion for this norm. Anomalies may appear when two flat points have opposite normals. Our proofs depend on careful estimates for the Fourier transform of the characteristic function of the convex body.
A departmental policy can reduce opioid prescribing after orthopedic surgery
Authors: Mears, MD, PhD Simon C. , Shnaekel, MD, MPH Asa , Wilkinson, MD John , Chen, BS Caroline , Barnes, MD C. Lowry
Published: February 2020

Objective: The authors hypothesized that implementation of a department-wide opioid prescribing program would reduce opioid tablets and morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) prescribed as well as prescription refills.Design: A retrospective study was conducted to determine the effects of a department wide opioid prescribing policy.Setting: A university teaching hospital Orthopaedic Surgery Department. Patients, participants: All prescriptions written by members of our department were reviewed for 3 months before and 3 months after program implementation. There were 1,445 patients in the pre-intervention and 1,209 patients in the postintervention cohort. Two thousand two hundred forty-six total prescriptions written during the pre-intervention period and 1,530 written during the post-intervention period of the study.Interventions: A departmental opioid prescribing policy was introduced through several department teaching sessions. The policy included recommendations on numbers of tablets per procedures and patient education about the dangers of narcotic medications.Main outcome measure(s): The primary study outcome measures were the number of opioid tablets prescribed, the number of MMEs prescribed, and the number of prescription refills.Results: The mean number of tablets per prescription decreased from 47.2 (95% confidence interval (CI): 46.4-47.9) tablets in the pre-intervention cohort to 39.2 (95% CI: 38.1-40.4) tablets in the post-intervention cohort (p < 0.0001). Likewise, the mean MME per prescription decreased from 354 (95% CI: 344-364) in the pre-intervention cohort to 265 (95% CI: 249-281) in the post-intervention cohort (p < 0.0001). A refill prescription was provided 949 times in the pre-intervention group and 404 times in the post-intervention group. Prior to the introduction of prescription guidelines, the average number of prescriptions was 1.76 per patient (95% CI: 1.71-1.81). This fell to 1.34 prescriptions per patient (95% CI: 1.31-1.38) after policy institution. Noncompliance with policy was not related to provider, service, or procedure size. Conclusions: Implementation of a departmental policy can successfully reduce the number of opioid tablets and MMEs prescribed per procedure. Policies also decrease the number of refill prescriptions per procedure. Standardization of prescription practices is effective in improving opioid prescription stewardship. Level of evidence: Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Moving through spaces – leisure walking and its psychosocial benefits for well-being: a narrative review
Authors: Zurawik Marta Anna
Published: February 2020

Leisure walking provides an escape from routines and daily lives, and offers positive experiences, such as fascination with nature, reflection, and mental relaxation. The processes of exploring and observing nature while walking build bonds between people and spaces. In walking, people explore personal capabilities and overcome challenges associated with demanding landscapes, which enhances feelings of satisfaction and achievement. Furthermore, sharing spaces and similar positive experiences with others while walking promote social interactions and a sense of belonging that combats feelings of loneliness

and benefits well-being. Ample research on physical activity, including walking, has explored the role of psychological, social, and environmental factors in the activity participation, and recognised its benefits for mental health and well-being. This paper reviews literature in the field of leisure and environmental psychology to present the evidence of the positive relationships between leisure walking in the natural environment and its psychological and social benefits for well-being.
Thematic analysis of the social aspects of nordic walking: the instructors’ perspective
Authors: Zurawik Marta Anna
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The health benefits of Nordic walking have been widely examined in previous studies. However, the social benefits of the activity are still unknown. The aim of this study is to explore various social aspects of Nordic walking from the instructors’ perspective related to the activity participation.

Methods

Overall, 14 Nordic walking instructors contacted electronically via the International Nordic Walking Federation instructor database completed open-ended questionnaires. The open-ended questionnaire consisted of 17 questions, grouped in sections (socio-demographic characteristics, career background, motives for becoming a Nordic walking instructor, characteristics of Nordic walking groups, means of promoting Nordic walking in local communities, group dynamics, and perceived barriers to participation). The data were content-analysed by using qualitative-data-management software MAXQDA 10.

Results

Participation in Nordic walking focused on building and maintaining strong social relationships between practitioners and instructors, which offered social and emotional support within the groups. The study identified environmental and psychological barriers to Nordic walking. Environmental barriers were associated with the weather and seasonal conditions, and the diversity of built and natural environments. Psychological barriers to Nordic walking referred to a negative image of walking with poles.

Conclusions

Nordic walking was suitable for people who searched for an opportunity to exercise with the intention for socialising and improving health.
Functionality and quality of life in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Oliveira Priscila Gomes de Jesus , Aramaki Roberta da Silva , Silva Alex Eduardo da , Luvizutto Gustavo José , Souza Luciane Aparecida Pascucci Sande de
Published: February 2020

Purpose

To identify factors constraining functionality and life quality in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Methods

Cross-sectional study in 6 ALS patients aged 51.16 ± 8.70 years, with disease duration of 3.16 ± 2.63 years. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Severity Scale (ALSSS) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS-R/BR) served to evaluate functionality; Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Assessment Questionnaire (ALSAQ-40) analysed life quality. Descriptive statistics was applied to clinical characteristics. The correlation of clinical profile and disease duration with the degree of functionality and life quality was verified by Spearman’s correlation, with values considered significant if p < 0.05
and r > 0.8.

Results

There was a positive correlation of age with ALSFRS (r = 0.852), disease duration with ALSAQ-40/physical mobility (r = 0.805), ALSFRS-R with ALSSS (r = 0.972), physical mobility with food (r = 0.881), and communication with emotional status (r = 0.947). Negative correlations were observed of age with mobility (r = –0.805) and emotional status (r = –0.876), disease duration with ALSFRS-R (r = –0.858) and ALSSS (r = –0.930), ALSFRS-R with physical mobility (r = –0.978) and food (r = –0.855), ALSSS with physical mobility (r = –0.910) and daily life activity (r = –0.874).

Conclusions

Longer disease was associated with lower functionality and poor life quality. Better functionality indicated lower severity and higher life quality in physical mobility and food. Higher severity was bound with poor life quality in physical mobility and daily life activity. We also observed correlations of physical mobility with food, and communication
with emotional status.
Using flow cytometry and light-induced fluorescence to characterize the variability and characteristics of bioaerosols in springtime in Metro Atlanta, Georgia
Authors: Negron Arnaldo , DeLeon-Rodriguez Natasha , Waters Samantha M. , Ziemba Luke D. , Anderson Bruce , Bergin Michael , Konstantinidis Konstantinos T. , Nenes Athanasios
Published: February 2020

Abstract. The abundance and speciation of primary biological aerosol particles (PBAP)
is important for understanding their impacts on human health, cloud
formation, and ecosystems. Towards this, we have developed a protocol for
quantifying PBAP collected from large volumes of air with a portable
wet-walled cyclone bioaerosol sampler. A flow cytometry (FCM) protocol was
then developed to quantify and characterize the PBAP populations from the
sampler, which were confirmed against epifluorescence microscopy. The
sampling system and FCM analysis were used to study PBAP in Atlanta, GA, over
a 2-month period and showed clearly defined populations of nucleic-acid-containing particles: low nucleic acid-content particles above threshold
(LNA-AT) and high nucleic acid-content particles (HNA) likely containing
wet-ejected fungal spores and pollen. We find that the daily-average springtime
PBAP concentration (1 to 5 µm diameter) ranged between 1.4×104 and 1.1×105 m−3. The LNA-AT population
dominated PBAP during dry days (72±18 %); HNA dominated the PBAP
during humid days and following rain events, where HNA comprised up to
92 % of the PBAP number. Concurrent measurements with a Wideband
Integrated Bioaerosol Sensor (WIBS-4A) showed that fluorescent
biological aerosol particles (FBAP) and total FCM counts
are similar; HNA (from FCM) moderately correlated with ABC-type FBAP
concentrations throughout the sampling period (and for the same particle
size range, 1–5 µm diameter). However, the FCM LNA-AT population,
possibly containing bacterial cells, did not correlate with any FBAP type.
The lack of correlation of any WIBS FBAP type with the LNA-AT suggests
that airborne bacterial cells may be more difficult to unambiguously detect with
autofluorescence than currently thought. Identification of bacterial cells
even in the FCM (LNA-AT population) is challenging, given that the
fluorescence level of stained cells at times may be comparable to that seen
from abiotic particles. HNA and ABC displayed the highest concentration on a
humid and warm day after a rain event (14 April 2015), suggesting that both
populations correspond to wet-ejected fungal spores. Overall, information
from both instruments combined reveals a highly dynamic airborne bioaerosol
community over Atlanta, with a considerable presence of fungal spores during
humid days and an LNA-AT population dominating the bioaerosol community during dry
days.