bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SISTEM PAKAR UNTUK MENDIAGNOSA PENYAKIT BABI DENGAN METODE BACKWARD CHAINING
Authors: Wirata Wisha Alvaliani , Delima Rosa , Wijana Katon
Published: March 2018

Proses diagnosa suatu penyakit baik pada manusia maupun hewan seharusnya dilakukan oleh seorang dokter yang ahli dibidang tersebut. Namun keterbatasan jumlah dokter khususnya dokter hewan dan kesulitan mengakses tenaga medis tersebut menyebabkan sebagian peternak melakukan pengobatan sendiri terhadap ternak mereka yang sedang sakit. Kurangnya pengetahuan para peternak terhadap penyakit hewan dan cara penangannya sering kali mengakibatkan kesalahan diagnosis dan pemberian obat kepada ternak mereka yang sedang sakit. Untuk itulah dibutuhkan sebuah sistem yang dapat membantu para peternak untuk melakukan diagnosis awal terhadap penyakit yang mungkin diderita oleh hewan ternak mereka. Pada penelitian ini penulis membangun sebuah sistem pakar yang dapat membantu melakukan diagnosa terhadap penyakit pada babi. Sistem pakar merupakan sebuah aplikasi yang berisi fakta, pengetahuan, dan penalaran yang dapat digunakan untuk menyelesaikan sebuah permasalahan yang membutuhkan keahlian khusus. Teknik penalaran yang digunakan dalam sistem ini adalah penalaran runut balik/backward chaining. Fakta dan pengetahuan sistem diperoleh dari seorang dokter hewan yang memiliki keahlian dalam mendiagnosis penyakit pada babi. Sistem memiliki kemampuan memberikan diagnosis terhadap satu atau lebih penyakit yang diderita oleh seekor babi. Berdasarkan uji beta, ketepatan diagnosis yang diberikan sistem cukup baik (87%). Kata kunci: sistem pakar, backward chaining, expert system, diagnosa, penyakit babi
IMPLEMENTASI ALGORITMA SCHMIDT-SAMOA PADA ENKRIPSI DEKRIPSI EMAIL BERBASIS ANDROID
Authors: Ristanto Willy , Raharjo Willy Sudiarto , Chrismanto Antonius Rachmat
Published: March 2018

Cryptography is a technique for sending secret messages. This research builds an Android-based email client application which implement cryptography with Schmidt-Samoa algorithm, which is classified as a public key cryptography. The algorithm performs encryption and decryption based on exponential and modulus operation on text messages. The application use 512 and 1024 bit keys. Performance measurements is done using text messages with character number variation of 5 – 10.000 characters to obtain the time used for encryption and decryption process. As a result of this research, 99,074% data show that decryption process is faster than encryption process. In 512 bit keys, the system can perform encryption process in 520 - 18.256 miliseconds, and decryption process in 487 - 5.688 miliseconds. In 1024 bit keys, system can perform encryption process in 5626 – 52,142 miliseconds (7.388 times slower than 512 bit keys) and decryption process with time 5463 – 15,808 miliseconds or 8.290 times slower than 512 bit keys.
Perancangan Aplikasi Pembelajaran Kooperatif Tipe Team Games Tournament (TGT) Berbasis Web
Authors: Rumayom Leo Nelson Barce , Prestiliano Jasson , Paseleng Mila C.
Published: March 2018

Team Games Tournament (TGT) as one of cooperative learning models could increase students skills but, this learning model need much time in implementation like grouping students and calculating tournament points. Web based cooperative learning application that designed in this research using TGT model. This application simplify implementation of TGT model because, students grouping will done in virtual mode and the application will automatically calculate tournament points. This application easy in use and quite effective.
HUMAN RESOURCE E-LEAVE MANAGEMENT: A DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM
Authors: Fortich Mitzi S. , Marcial Dave E.
Published: March 2018

The main purpose of the study was to develop a Human Resource e-Leave Management System for the university that will be more efficient and synchronized than the current manual system. In order to have an efficient and effective management of leave transactions, the web-based system was designed and implemented with modules on leave applications, leave balances monitoring, records management, administration, and install the business intelligence technique to aid in the decision making activities of the HRDM Officer and the Management. It offers streamlined operations, fair application of leave policies, introduction of more statistical reports and a more productive workforce. The development methods used were Process Modeling and UML diagrams.  The tools and languages used in developing the system were Ajax, Adobe Flash and Flash Player, JavaScript, jQuery, HTML5 and CSS3 for the client-side coding and PHP for the server-side coding.  MySQL was used for the database and XAMPP as the web server.  The development environment was Eclipse Web Tools Platform, and the development framework was CodeIgniter. Structured questionnaires were used to conduct the Preliminary Survey, System Usability and Web Usability Evaluation. The main findings of this study revealed that the system is fully compliant with the standard System Usability Guidelines. Likewise, the Web Usability showed that the employees strongly agreed on the implementation of the system in order to have a quick response and access to information.  The results of the Web Accessibility test also showed that the completed system is error-free and passed the standard guidelines for Web Accessibility.
SISTEM PAKAR UNTUK MENDIAGNOSA KERUSAKAN PERANGKAT TELEVISI MENGGUNAKAN METODE BACKWARD CHAINING
Authors: Nugraha Deny Wiria
Published: March 2018

This study aims to design and build an expert system that can diagnose damage to the television set based on the type and characteristics of the damage by using backward chaining method. The expert system in this study has been designed and built using the backward chaining method. It starts by proving the preliminary conclusions based on direct observations of users of the damage type to the television set that will be repaired, and the results show the facts and the rules appropriate to the type and characteristics of the damage to the television set. The expert system was proved capable of receiving, storing, and transferring knowledge from experts or repair technicians of the damage to the television set according to the type and characteristics of the actual damage to the television set. This expert system also proved to be able to function properly to diagnose problem of the television set based on the type and characteristics of the damage.
ANALISIS ALGORITMA ROUND ROBIN, LEAST CONNECTION, DAN RATIO PADA LOAD BALANCING MENGGUNAKAN OPNET MODELER
Authors: Nasser Husain , Witono Timotius
Published: March 2018

Load balancing is a technique to distribute traffic load into two or more lanes to reach balanced connection, optimized traffic performance, maximized data throughput, minimized delay, and avoiding data overload. Load balancing in a computer network used to modulate the balance of bandwidth usage between multiple internet service provider. This research contains Load Balancing performance test on HTTP, FTP, and VoIP. Testing application used is OPNET Modeler 14.5 simulator, and load balancing algorithm which being tested is Least Connection, Round Robin, and Ratio. The test results shows generally Ratio is better than Least Connection and Round Robin. Ratio excels on handling End-to-End Delay and Jitter in VoIP,  while Least Conncetion shows the highest throughput value in all test cases.
ADAPTASI MODEL KEMATANGAN NHS INFRASTRUCTURE (NIMMTM) UNTUK EVALUASI INFRASTRUKTUR TI PADA RUMAH SAKIT DI YOGYAKARTA
Authors: Sebastian Danny , Sinaga Benyamin L , Rahayu Sapty
Published: March 2018

IT infrastructure is an important for a company to achieve competitive advantages. All bussiness industry needs a good IT infrastructure to support their business, it also experienced by healthcare industry. However in Indonesia, there is no standarisation for IT infrastructure in hospital. The purpose of this research is to adapt NHS infrastructure maturity model (NIMMTM) based on Indonesian hospital environment, in this case RS XYZ. This research consist of 3 steps, preliminary study (1), maturity model adaptation (2), and maturity model validation (3). The adapted maturity model consist of 11 categories and 60 key capabilities. Each key capabilities has 5 perspectives, process perspective, organisation & people perspective, technology perspective, IT security & information governance perspective, and strategy alignment & business value perspective. Each perspective has at least 1 KPI and total KPI of this adapted maturity model is 432 KPIs. The adapted maturity model can be used for IT infrastructure maturity evaluation and a guidelines for enhance IT infrastructure.
Post-mortem diagnosis of gunshot injuries in an osprey: A case report
Authors: FELSMANN MARIUSZ Z. , GOGULSKI MACIEJ
Published: March 2018

The shooting of protected species, especially rare animals, is regarded as a priority issue by law enforcement authorities. In such cases, an expert veterinarian is required not only to confirm the death of the animal as a result of shooting, but also to provide a precise description of the shot. In cases of shootings with pellet bullets, such a description is particularly difficult. The evaluation of the gunshot wounds of an osprey (Pandion haliaetus) delivered to the Veterinary Medical Centre at the University of Poznań called for the use of a variety of diagnostic techniques. A preliminary assessment confirming the shot was based on an X-ray photo. Computed tomography (CT) was used for in-depth diagnostics, providing a spatial representation of bullet stopping points and fragments. The shot caused a lower leg bone fracture. This damage upset the anatomical structure of the animal's limb, which made it impossible to establish the wound channel by CT. Therefore, full shot characteristics could only be made only after a classical post-mortem examination. This examination facilitated the use of modern imaging diagnostic techniques. The use of mixed diagnostic techniques enabled us to determine the number of shots, the type of ammunition used and the direction from which the shot was fired. On the one hand, this case illustrates the possibilities offered by modern imaging diagnostic techniques and, on the other hand, it shows that the classic post-mortem examination remains a primary diagnostic tool for veterinary forensic experts. This is especially important when preparing forensic veterinary opinions in high-priority law enforcement cases. .
New possibilities for pregnancy diagnosis in ruminants: Limitations, advantages, use
Authors: JAŚKOWSKI JĘDRZEJ M. , HERUDZIŃSKA MAGDALENA , KMIECIK JULITA , KIERBIĆ ALEKSANDRA , JAŚKOWSKI BARTŁOMIEJ M. , GEHRKE MAREK
Published: March 2018

Early pregnancy diagnosis in ruminants, especially in high production herds, is one of the most important components of reproduction management. Reducing the time between insemination and the exclusion or confirmation of pregnancy is of major economic importance. That is why the traditional method of pregnancy examination by transrectal palpation is increasingly complemented by additional tests, such as ultrasonography. An alternative to these methods of pregnancy diagnosis are also simple field tests. The best known are tests for progesterone and estrone sulphate concentrations. Over the last few years, the measuring of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) has also been gaining popularity. In cattle, this method can be used as early as the 28th day of pregnancy, when the plasma concentration of PAGs exceeds 1ng / ml. Maximum values of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins are observed about day 240 after fertilization. After calving, their level quickly decreases. In sheep, the concentration of PAGs increases significantly in the 3rd and 4th weeks of gestation and reaches its maximum level around the 9th week. In goats, the concentration of PAGs differs between races, but its measurement can be quite a reliable indirect method of pregnancy diagnosis. The PAGs value in this species grows until about the 8th week after insemination and, depending on the breed, reaches a maximum value of 50 to 69 ng/ml. One limitation for the use of PAGs field tests may be false positives which occur after the death of the embryo. Similarly, an increased PAGs concentration can persists for up to about 70 days after calving. Moreover, the PAGs concentration is also affected by the health, age and milk production of the female. The advantages of field tests are the simplicity of performance, the ease of reading and interpreting the results and the short time needed to complete the entire procedure. Field tests based on the commonly used ELISA method are characterized by low invasiveness (blood, milk), combined with high sensitivity and specificity. Their rapid application under field conditions makes them an excellent extension of diagnostic capabilities, especially in large herds of cows, .
Seasonality of the reproduction of wild boars in the Lublin Upland and weight characteristics of their carcasses
Authors: FLIS MARIAN , GRELA EUGENIUSZ R. , GUGAŁA DARIUSZ , RATAJ BOGUSŁAW
Published: March 2018

The purpose of the study was to assess the seasonality of wild boar reproduction and the weight of wild boar carcasses obtained in the hunting district of Lublin in the years 2012-2017. The study was based on the measurement of the weight of wild boar carcasses obtained by hunting and delivered to collection centres or kept by hunters for their own use. The animals were weighed upon evisceration. After determining the weight of the carcass, the age of the animal was determined on the basis of the growth and replacement of particular groups of deciduous teeth by permanent teeth as well as changes in the permanent dentition of the mandible. The seasonality of reproduction was then assessed on the basis of the estimated age and the length of pregnancy. The results show clear disturbances in reproductive seasonality. Less than 40% of farrowings occurred in the hitherto typical period, that is, in March and April. In fact, the farrowings took place in all months of the year, with the fewest in January and September. Body mass increased in the individual's life, thus the highest growth rate of over 400% occurred in the youngest wild boars. The carcass weights in particular age groups (piglets, yearlings, 2-year-olds and older) were significantly higher than those recorded elsewhere in Poland. The piglets weighed on average 37.0 kg, yearlings 65.5 kg, and the oldest group 100.3 kg. The results show that the improvement in habitat conditions, combined with progressive climate changes, results in an earlier somatic and sexual maturation. This, in turn, results in higher reproduction rates and a dynamic population growth, leading to greater damage caused by this species in field crops. .
Relationship between cardiac injury, selected biochemical parameters, DIC, and hemogram levels in cattle with theileriosis
Authors: KILINC OZLEM ORUNC , OZDAL NALAN , BICEK KAMILE , M. SERDAR DEGER , YUKSEK NAZMI , YILMAZ ALI BILGIN , OGUZ BEKIR
Published: March 2018

This study was undertaken to investigate the effects of theileriosis on the cardiovascular system in cattle. Blood samples were collected from 50 cattle naturally infected with Theileria spp. (before and after treatment) as well as from 30 non-infected cattle. Hematological parameters and the serum concentrations of total cardiac troponin I (cTnI), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatine kinase (CK), and creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) were measured. Also coagulation parameters, plasma levels of activated partial thrombo plastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT) and D-dimer were measured. The presence of anemia and the levels of cTnI, CK-MB, CK and AST indicated statistically significant differences between infected and healthy cattle, but no statistically significant differences between the two groups were found in DD levels at the end of the study. Reduction in anemia and reduced levels of cTnI, CK-MB, CK, AST, APTT and PT were also found in post-treatment analyses. The results indicate that anemia, coagulation disorders and hypoxia in theileriosis in cattle can induce myocardial tissue damage.
Scoring methods for respiratory tract lesions in pigs at slaughter
Authors: KUBERKA ZBIGNIEW , DORS ARKADIUSZ
Published: March 2018

The complexity of respiratory diseases in pigs, which results from simultaneous infections with many microorganisms and environmental conditions in the pig facilities, leads to diagnostic difficulties. In order to assess the health status of the herd, monitoring is commonly used. It provides useful information, for example, about the seasonality of diseases, as well as the variety and dynamics of macroscopic lesions in the lungs depending on the preventive program used. One way to monitor respiratory diseases in pigs is to score lesions in the respiratory system. The scoring of lesions should be an integral part of diagnostic investigations. The aim of the paper is to describe and evaluate selected systems for the scoring of macroscopic lesions in the lungs during post-mortem examination. Some of these systems assess the severity of atrophic changes in the nasal cavity caused by infectious atrophic rhinitis in pigs. Another type of respiratory tract assessment is the evaluation (scoring) of lesions resulting from infection by Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae in the course of mycoplasmal pneumonia of swine. A number of scoring systems and their modifications have been described in the literature for this type of lesions. Various methods have also been devised for the scoring of macroscopic lesions in the pig lungs described as pleurisy. Regardless of the method used, these examinations are useful diagnostically and complement other types of diagnostic examinations. They are important primarily in the course of subacute and chronic forms of disease or infections associated with atypical clinical signs. .
Anti-Aging Drugs – Prospect of Longer Life?
Authors: Klimova Blanka , Novotny Michal , Kuca Kamil
Published: March 2018

Background:

Aging is a natural part of human life. However, recent discoveries
indicate that pharmacological approaches used for the improvement and possibly, for
the delay of the aging process, might shed a new light on this topic. This might obviously
contribute to the extension of the active life of older people and maintenance of their
quality of life, which could consequently reduce both social and economic burden of each
country, especially the developed ones.

Objective:

The purpose of this study is to explore pharmacological discoveries which may
help to the delay or improvement of the aging process. More specifically, the authors focus
on three anti-aging drugs candidates: metformin, rapamycin and resveratrol and one
anti-aging component NAD+ precursors whose randomized control trials on animals have
appeared to provide some efficacy in this respect and they seem to be promising in the aging
process of human beings.

Methods:

This was done by conducting a literature review of available sources describing
the issue of aging process with special focus on those anti-aging drug candidates.

Results:

The results of this study indicate that promising anti-aging candidates seem to be
metformin, especially as far as cardiovascular or cancer mortality is concerned, and
NAD+ precursors since they appear to promote better organ function, increased physical
resistance, disease resistance and prolonged life expectancy.

Conclusion:

There is a call for more longitudinal clinical trials, which would prove the
efficacy of the promising anti-aging drugs candidates in humans.
Del Cusco renace la integración andina: La restauración del Puente de la Almudena
Authors: GUERRA VERA YADIRA , LANDA SIERRA MIGUEL
Published: March 2018

Este artículo presenta una crítica arquitectónica al resultado de la obra de Recuperación y Puesta en Valor del Puente de La Almudena en la ciudad de Cusco, culminada el año 2006. Dicho proyecto parte de la idea general de recuperar físicamente la trayectoria histórica de los caminos pertenecientes al sistema vial inca Qhapaq Ñan, que alguna vez fue la primordial herramienta de integración del entonces Tawantinsuyu. La ejecución de este proyecto significó la renovación de un espacio en franco proceso de deterioro e insalubridad, así como la reapertura del acceso por medio del cual el centro histórico de la ciudad de Cusco se comunica con los territorios del Kuntisuyu o territorios hacia la costa, intervención durante la cual tuvieron lugar nuevos retos y experiencias metodológicas, además de que se gestó una nueva forma de concebir el valor del patrimonio civil público de carácter vial, hasta entonces poco apreciado.
Revitalización de centros urbanos desde la perspectiva del programa Main Street en Barrios Altos
Authors: URDANIGUE CONTRERAS AARON
Published: March 2018

El presente documento busca dar a conocer algunos estudios que desarrollan la importancia de los actores sociales como gestores de la conservación del patrimonio arquitectónico, en especial aquellos que se dedican al comercio tradicional. En ese marco los comerciantes locales tradicionales son los actores más interesados en la revitalización de los centros históricos. Muchas instituciones, tanto públicas como privadas, incentivan actualmente políticas de desarrollo para la revitalización de centros urbanos, como es el caso de la Organización de las Naciones Unidas para la Educación, la Ciencia y la Cultura (UNESCO). En el presente trabajo busca exponer la revitalización “desde adentro” de Barrios Altos. Con ese objetivo, se explica la experiencia norteamericana desde el programa llamado Main Street, que desde inicios de los años 80 se viene desarrollando exitosamente en pequeñas y medianas localidades de los Estados Unidos. Este programa se enfoca en la revitalización del área comercial ubicada principalmente alrededor de la calle principal (Main Street); de ahí el nombre. Desde esta perspectiva, la investigación busca aterrizar este programa en una zona de Barrios Altos, específicamente en el ambiente urbano monumental de Cinco Esquinas, uno de los lugares más representativos donde todavía tiene lugar un comercio local tradicional y existe arquitectura patrimonial a conservar.
IMPACT OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS ON THE STATUS OF RURAL WOMEN
Authors: Kumar Arun
Published: March 2018

Mother is a radiant nurse, an angel of mercy, a patient teacher, a watchful guardian and compassionate attorney and a fountainhead of courage. Post independence sociologists paid attention towards the women who are traditionally backward, exploited and taken as second-rate citizens. This is obstruction and hindrance in the progress and prosperity of family, community and country. The complete social structure is affected. For the rural development and reconstruction, it is necessary to understand the changing social status and role of rural women who are 48.3% of the Total population of the country. For the study of past enables us to grasp the fundamental psychology behind the present problems and attitudes that uphold or reject them due to which it has come to be what it is. We may thus be enabling to make out the cause and circumstances embedded in the past, which led to the existence and conditions and causes are sure to prove themselves of great help to us in the making up and planning of a figure. Women constitute about fifty per cent of the world population. It is estimated that by A.D. 2000, the total number of women in the world will be more than 3 billion and they will outnumber men by nearly 175 million. At the United Nations Conference in Nairobi in 1985, it was noted that they comprise 35 per cent of the world’s labor force in the sphere of employment and occupied lower positions. Further it is observed that over 60 per cent of world’s illiterates are women, mostly in the developing countries. More than 60% respondents have accepted all the factors mentioned as variables are responsible for the uplift of the status of rural women. But; it is note-worthy that more than three-fourth of the respondents have emphasized especially on urbanization, women welfare organizations and rural development programs; as the tools of uplift for the status of rural women.
Possible Risk Factors for Severe Anemia in Hospitalized Sickle Cell Patients at Muhimbili National Hospital, Tanzania: Protocol for a Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Tluway Furahini , Urio Florence , Mmbando Bruno , Sangeda Raphael Zozimus , Makubi Abel , Makani Julie
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common inherited disorder worldwide, with the highest burden in sub-Saharan Africa. The natural history of SCD is characterized by periods of steady state interspersed by acute episodes. The acute anemic crises may be transient and are precipitated by treatable factors like infections, nutritional deficiencies, and sequestration. Anemia is almost always present, although it occurs at different levels of severity.

OBJECTIVE

This paper describes the protocol of a cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of severe anemia and associated factors among sickle cell patients hospitalized at the Muhimbili National Hospital.

METHODS

This is an ongoing, descriptive, cross-sectional, hospital-based study among individuals with SCD, admitted to the Muhimbili National Hospital in Dares Salaam, Tanzania. A minimum sample size of 369 was calculated based on the previous prevalence of hospitalizations due to severe anemia (20%) in the same cohort. We are using a piloted standardized case report form to document clinical and laboratory parameters following informed consent. Data analysis will be performed using Stata software. Severe anemia is defined as Hb<5g/dL. Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test will be used to ascertain association between categorical variables, and t-test will be used for numerical variables. Regression models for severe anemia against explanatory and confounding variables will be run, and results will be presented as adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals. A P value of <.05 will be considered significant.

RESULTS

Enrolment commenced in January 2015 and concluded in September 2016. Complete data analysis will begin in February 2018. The study results are expected to be published in May 2018.

CONCLUSIONS

This protocol paper will provide a useful and practical model for conducting cross-sectional studies in hospitalized patients that cover a wide ranging of clinical and laboratory variables.
Work Addiction Test Questionnaire to Assess Workaholism: Validation of French Version (Preprint)
Authors: Ravoux Hortense , Pereira Bruno , Brousse Georges , Dewavrin Samuel , Cornet Thomas , Mermillod Martial , Mondillon Laurie , Vallet Guillaume , Moustafa Farès , Dutheil Frédéric
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Work addiction is a significant public health problem with a growing prevalence. The Work Addiction Risk Test (WART) is the gold standard questionnaire to detect workaholism.

OBJECTIVE

The main objective of this study was to validate the French version of the WART.

METHODS

Questionnaires were proposed to voluntary French workers using the WittyFit software. There were no exclusion criteria. The questionnaire was administered anonymously for initial validity testing and readministered one week later for test-retest reliability. We also assessed the workers’ sociodemographic characteristics, as well as other measurements for external validity, such as stress, well-being, and coaddictions to tobacco, alcohol, and cannabis. Several psychometric properties of the French-WART were explored: acceptability, reliability (internal consistency [Cronbach alpha coefficient] and reproducibility [Lin concordance coefficient]), construct validity (correlation coefficients and principal component analysis), and external validity (correlation coefficients).

RESULTS

Among the 1580 workers using WittyFit, 187 (11.83%) agreed to complete the WART questionnaire. Of those, 128 completed the test-retest survey (68.4%). Acceptability found that all respondents had fully completed the questionnaire, with few floor or ceiling effects. Reliability was very good with a Cronbach alpha coefficient at .90 (internal consistency) and Lin concordance coefficient at .90 (95% CI .87-.94] with a difference on the retest of .04 (SD 4.9) (95% CI −9.6 to 9.7) (reproducibility). We identified three main dimensions (construct validity). Relationships between WART and stress and well-being confirmed its external validity.

CONCLUSIONS

The French version of the WART is a valid and reliable instrument to assess work addiction with satisfactory psychometric properties. Used in occupational medicine, this tool would allow the diagnosis of work addiction and can be easily implemented in current practice.
Therapist-Assisted Rehabilitation of Visual Function and Hemianopia after Brain Injury: Intervention Study on the Effect of the Neuro Vision Technology Rehabilitation Program (Preprint)
Authors: Rasmussen Rune Skovgaard , Schaarup Anne Marie Heltoft , Overgaard Karsten
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Serious and often lasting vision impairments affect 30% to 35% of people following stroke. Vision may be considered the most important sense in humans, and even smaller permanent injuries can drastically reduce quality of life. Restoration of visual field impairments occur only to a small extent during the first month after brain damage, and therefore the time window for spontaneous improvements is limited. One month after brain injury causing visual impairment, patients usually will experience chronically impaired vision and the need for compensatory vision rehabilitation is substantial.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to investigate whether rehabilitation with Neuro Vision Technology will result in a significant and lasting improvement in functional capacity in persons with chronic visual impairments after brain injury. Improving eyesight is expected to increase both physical and mental functioning, thus improving the quality of life.

METHODS

This is a prospective open label trial in which participants with chronic visual field impairments are examined before and after the intervention. Participants typically suffer from stroke or traumatic brain injury and will be recruited from hospitals and The Institute for the Blind and Partially Sighted. Treatment is based on Neuro Vision Technology, which is a supervised training course, where participants are trained in compensatory techniques using specially designed equipment. Through the Neuro Vision Technology procedure, the vision problems of each individual are carefully investigated, and personal data is used to organize individual training sessions. Cognitive face-to-face assessments and self-assessed questionnaires about both life and vision quality are also applied before and after the training.

RESULTS

Funding was provided in June 2017. Results are expected to be available in 2020. Sample size is calculated to 23 participants. Due to age, difficulty in transport, and the time-consuming intervention, up to 25% dropouts are expected; thus, we aim to include at least 29 participants.

CONCLUSIONS

This investigation will evaluate the effects of Neuro Vision Technology therapy on compensatory vision rehabilitation. Additionally, quality of life and cognitive improvements associated to increased quality of life will be explored.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03160131; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03160131 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6x3f5HnCv)
How Health Care Professionals Evaluate a Digital Intervention to Improve Medication Adherence: Qualitative Exploratory Study (Preprint)
Authors: Thomson Karen , Brouwers Corline , Damman Olga C , de Bruijne Martine C , Timmermans Danielle RM , Melles Marijke
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Medication nonadherence poses a serious and a hard-to-tackle problem for many chronic diseases. Electronic health (eHealth) apps that foster patient engagement and shared decision making (SDM) may be a novel approach to improve medication adherence.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the perspective of health care professionals regarding a newly developed digital app aimed to improve medication adherence. Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) was chosen as a case example.

METHODS

A Web-based prototype of the eHealth app—MIK—was codesigned with patients and health care professionals. After user tests with patients, we performed semistructured interviews and user tests with 12 physicians from 6 different hospitals to examine how the functionalities offered by MIK could assist physicians in their consultation and how they could be integrated into daily clinical practice. Qualitative thematic analysis was used to identify themes that covered the physicians’ evaluations.

RESULTS

On the basis of the interview data, 3 themes were identified, which were (1) perceived impact on patient-physician collaboration; (2) perceived impact on the patient’s understanding and self-management regarding medication adherence; and (3) perceived impact on clinical decisions and workflow.

CONCLUSIONS

The eHealth app MIK seems to have the potential to improve the consultation between the patient and the physician in terms of collaboration and patient engagement. The impact of eHealth apps based on the concept of SDM for improving medication-taking behavior and clinical outcomes is yet to be evaluated. Insights will be useful for further development of eHealth apps aimed at improving self-management by means of patient engagement and SDM.
Improving Transplant Medication Safety Through a Pharmacist-Empowered, Patient-Centered, mHealth-Based Intervention: TRANSAFE Rx Study Protocol (Preprint)
Authors: Fleming James N , Treiber Frank , McGillicuddy John , Gebregziabher Mulugeta , Taber David J
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Medication errors, adverse drug events, and nonadherence are the predominant causes of graft loss in kidney transplant recipients and lead to increased healthcare utilization. Research has demonstrated that clinical pharmacists have the unique education and training to identify these events early and develop strategies to mitigate or prevent downstream sequelae. In addition, studies utilizing mHealth interventions have demonstrated success in improving the control of chronic conditions that lead to kidney transplant deterioration.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of the prospective, randomized TRANSAFE Rx study is to measure the clinical and economic effectiveness of a pharmacist-led, mHealth-based intervention, as compared to usual care, in kidney transplant recipients.

METHODS

TRANSAFE Rx is a 12-month, parallel, two-arm, 1:1 randomized controlled clinical trial involving 136 participants (68 in each arm) and measuring the clinical and economic effectiveness of a pharmacist-led intervention which utilizes an innovative mobile health application to improve medication safety and health outcomes, as compared to usual posttransplant care.

RESULTS

The primary outcome measure of this study will be the incidence and severity of MEs and ADRs, which will be identified, categorized, and compared between the intervention and control cohorts. The exploratory outcome measures of this study are to compare the incidence and severity of acute rejections, infections, graft function, graft loss, and death between research cohorts and measure the association between medication safety issues and these events. Additional data that will be gathered includes sociodemographics, health literacy, depression, and support.

CONCLUSIONS

With this report we describe the study design, methods, and outcome measures that will be utilized in the ongoing TRANSAFE Rx clinical trial.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03247322: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03247322 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6xcSUnuzW)
Telehealth Rehabilitation for Cognitive Impairment: Randomized Controlled Feasibility Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Burton Rachel L , O'Connell Megan E
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Nonpharmacological interventions are needed to support the function of older adults struggling with subjective cognitive impairment (SCI), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia due to Alzheimer disease (AD). Telerehabilitation aims to provide rehabilitation at a distance, but cognitive rehabilitation by videoconferencing has not been explored.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to compare goal-oriented cognitive rehabilitation delivered in-person with videoconferencing to determine whether telehealth cognitive rehabilitation appears feasible.

METHODS

Random assignment to in-person or telehealth videoconferencing cognitive rehabilitation with a combined between-subjects, multiple baseline single-case experimental design, cognitive rehabilitation was delivered by a therapist to 6 participants with SCI (n=4), MCI (n=1), or dementia due to AD (n=1).

RESULTS

Two of the 6 participants randomly assigned to the telehealth condition withdrew before beginning the intervention. For those who participated in the intervention, 6 out of 6 goals measured with the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure improved for those in the in-person group, and 7 out of 9 goals improved for those in the telehealth group.

CONCLUSIONS

Delivery of cognitive rehabilitation by telehealth appeared feasible but required modifications such as greater reliance on caregivers and clients for manipulating materials.
Manifestation of Income Inequality and Poverty Prevalence in Selected North Central States of Nigeria
Authors: Shaba Ndako Yahaya , Yelwa Mohammed , S.A.J. Obansa , Magaji Sule
Published: March 2018

Poverty in Nigeria has been described as pervasive owing to the fact that the nation has witnessed a persistent increase in poverty level over the years. More so, there has been a renewed and growing concern about poverty and income inequality due to their negative implications for both economic growth and social peace. In Nigeria, the twin issues of poverty and inequitable income distribution present a paradox. This is because, though the country is rich in land, human and natural resources, yet 70 percent of Nigerians are still considered poor with low per capital income. More so, it has been argued that income inequality is a manifestation as well as strong cause of poverty. The study therefore analyses the empirical relationship between manifestation of income inequality and poverty prevalence among households in selected North Central States in Nigeria. This study employed survey method using structured questionnaire. A representative sample of 600 respondents was planned for the survey in order to have at least 462 households responding. However, the study has 501 household respondents representing 84 percent success rate. The result shows that 84 percent households believe that income inequality is a major determinant of poverty in Nigeria and 76 percent also agreed that poverty occur most in rural area than urban areas. It was found that a disproportionate share in income across divide would exacerbate poverty among rural dwellers particularly farmers, artisans, and traders. The study therefore recommends a deliberate policy of reducing income inequality so as to reduce the incidence of poverty especially among the rural dwellers.
A psicodinâmica do trabalho: principais contribuições ao seu delineamento
Authors: Secco de Andrade Mélou Ana Carolina , Ribeiro de Oliveira Paulo De Tarso , Pereira Lopes da Silva Anaclan , De Oliveira Cardoso Márcia Roberta
Published: March 2018

São vários os campos de saber que se debruçam sobre o estudo da categoria trabalho e suas repercussões na vida humana. A Psicodinâmica do Trabalho, pertencente ao âmbito das clínicas do trabalho, é uma das disciplinas que se dedica a esse estudo, mais especificamente à análise da relação entre trabalho e prazer/sofrimento psíquico. O presente estudo objetiva evidenciar as principais contribuições que influenciaram no delineamento da Psicodinâmica do Trabalho. Realizou-se um levantamento bibliográfico em forma de revisão narrativa, compreendendo a produção de artigos científicos, livros e capítulos de livros que apresentassem conteúdo pertinente ao tema. A produção selecionada abrangeu o período de 1990 até o atual. Conforme o encontrado, criou-se os seguintes tópicos: O SURGIMENTO DA PSICOLOGIA DO TRABALHO NA FRANÇA; A ERGONOMIA SITUADA; A IMPORTÂNCIA DA PSIQUIATRIA E DA PSICOPATOLOGIA DO TRABALHO; ALGUMAS CONTRIBUIÇÕES DA PSICANÁLISE; A RELEVÂNCIA DO MODELO OPERÁRIO ITALIANO; AS INFLUÊNCIAS DA SOCIOLOGIA DE MARX.
A CNBB como promotora de notícia e fonte de informação da religião católica no Jornalismo: notas como ritual estratégico e meios alternativos de agendamento
Authors: Dias Robson , Lacerda Eliane Muniz , Gomes Victor Márcio Laus Reis
Published: March 2018

Este artigo investiga material empírico, documental, por meio de análise de conteúdo: notas e meios alternativos de agendamento midiático (1968-1977) feitos pela Conferência dos Bispos do Brasil (CNBB), durante o período da Ditadura Militar no Brasil. A análise leva em conta, tematicamente, cinco casos de religiosos acusados pelo Estado de praticar atividades subversivas, publicados em Folha de S. Paulo, Jornal do Brasil, O Estado de S. Paulo e O Globo. O objetivo é o de resgatar a CNBB como ator no processo de produção da notícia (MOLOTCH e LESTER, 1999), além das ações tomadas como news promoters (assessores, organizações) ao se relacionar com os news assemblers (repórteres, editores, redações) negociando sentidos a serem ofertados no noticiário aos news consumers (público leitor). Muito mais que fonte de notícias no espaço público e no espaço midiático, a CNBB participou ativamente em prol de da cidadania, em prol da luta pelos direitos humanos.
Islamofobia brasileira online: discursos fechados sobre o Islam em uma rede social
Authors: Freitas de Souza Felipe
Published: March 2018

Atualmente, circulam representações negativas sobre os muçulmanos em diferentes redes sociais, operando uma estereotipia dos muçulmanos e do Islam. A islamofobia, compreendida enquanto ações de violência simbólica ou física contra muçulmanos pelo mero fato de serem muçulmanos, é pressuposta enquanto o mote dessas representações. A apreensão de que os muçulmanos seriam uma ameaça constata-se desde o medievo. O presente texto visa expor as oito leituras de discurso islamofóbico presentes no relatório do The Runnymede Trust aplicadas sobre postagens na rede social Twitter, de modo a constatar tais modalidades de islamofobia online.  As leituras são de que o Islam é monolítico, estático, alheio à nossa sociedade, inferior, nêmesis, manipulador, sendo justificável a discriminação contra muçulmanos, desmerecendo a crítica ao Ocidente realizada pelos muçulmanos e naturalizando o discurso anti-Islam. Os exemplos mobilizados indicam a presença de esquemas de preconceito já identificados em outros países. Para tanto, remetemos a pesquisas e relatórios internacionais. Em nosso levantamento, apreendemos também a leitura de que o Islam não é uma religião, mas uma ideologia. Concluímos refletindo sobre o posicionamento islamofóbico ser tratado enquanto manifestação de barbárie.
O tríplice feminino: Jesus, Medeia e a identidade do Poeta enquanto uma feiticeira sacrificada.
Authors: Diniz Fábio Gerônimo Mota
Published: March 2018

Construído a partir de uma comparação entre as figuras da personagem mítica grega Medeia e do salvador e filho de Deus, da mitologia cristã, Jesus Cristo, o texto pretende apresentar uma faceta possível da figura do Poeta que nomeamos “feiticeira sacrificada”. A ideia é propor um tópos referencial simbólico a partir do qual se compreenderá o artista, especialmente o Poeta, como uma figura feminina e dotada de especiais poderes sobre o cosmos, cujo sacrifício a leva a uma ascensão. Nessa ascensão se revelam uma série de símbolos e imagens ligadas ao universo da mulher enquanto mãe, estrangeira e feiticeira, que operam como motores fundamentais do seu fazer poético, derivado dessa crise instaurada na identidade do eu-criador diante de seu martírio. Assim, partindo dessa nossa análise dos dois personagens arquetípicos e da leitura de um poema de Fernando Pessoa, da série de sonetos Passos da Cruz, faremos a proposta de uma percepção da feiticeira sacrificada como um dos possíveis arquétipos identitários desse Poeta posto diante do sofrimento.
A noção de sujeito cognoscente em Kant e Weber: influências e especificidades
Authors: Rodrigues Gonçalves Carolina Stéphanie
Published: March 2018

Busco oferecer uma análise da noção de sujeito cognoscente a partir de dois registros epistemológicos: o kantiano e o weberiano. Para tanto, delineio a primeira destas duas noções - o sujeito transcendental - sob a perspectiva de Kant (I), a partir das seguintes questões: i) as fontes do conhecimento; ii) o papel desempenhado pelo sujeito; e iii) a demarcação finita constitutiva da realidade cognoscível (fenômenos). Analisá-las-ei a partir das aparições desta noção na sua própria obra Crítica da razão pura (1781). Em seguida, passo a analisar como a noção de sujeito cognoscente aparece, sobretudo, no ensaio A "objetividade" do conhecimento na ciência social e na ciência política, de Weber, (II), visando mostrá-la sob as seguintes questões: i) o impasse epistemológico entre as noções de trabalho cognitivo e empiria; e ii) a questão da subjetividade na estratégia cognitiva weberiana. Concluo com uma breve análise das principais influências da corrente neokantista sobre a noção weberiana de sujeito cognoscente e as especificidades apresentadas por esta em relação àquela.
Heralds and witnesses poets of Serbian romanticism - between religion of the nation and loss of faith
Authors: Pavicevic Aleksandra
Published: March 2018

Ideas of Enlightement, national romanticism and transformation of
geopolitical situation on the Balkans, were cultural and historical context
in which bases of modern Serbian state was established. That was the time of
intensive social change directed towards building institutional
infrastructure as well as towards transforming traditional, ?obsolete? folk
customs and habits. Poor condition of Serbian Orthodox Church and domination
of religious world views among people were considered to be the most serious
obstacles in creating modern state. Thus, great number of intelectuals were
anticlerical and promoted liberal and secularized social organization. On the
other hand, the whole epoch was characterized by strong antiscientistic
orientation which was expresed through developing of different mistical,
alternative, neopagan cults. Specific for our region was so called ?religion
of the nation? which appeared as substitution for loss of eshatological
perspective in life of Christian civilization. Poets of Serbian romanticism
were heralds and witnesses of this civilization ?turn?. Their poetry can be
observed as reflex and announcement of secularization in Serbian society. In
this paper, we analyzed their writings about death, love, hope, nature and
nation.