bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O USO DAS TECNOLOGIAS NA FORMAÇÃO PROFISSIONAL E TECNOLÓGICA: UM ESTUDO DE CASO DO CENTRO TERRITORIAL DE EDUCAÇÃO PROFISSIONAL DO EXTREMO SUL (CETEPES)
Authors: SANTOS SILAS LACERDA DOS
Published: January 2020

O objeto de estudo desta pesquisa corresponde ao uso das Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação (TIC’s) pelos professores da Educação Profissional e Tecnológica (EPT), no contexto do Centro Territorial de Educação Profissional do Extremo Sul (Cetepes), localizado no município de Teixeira de Freitas/BA. Como objetivo geral, buscamos conhecer de que modo os professores utilizam as TIC’s visando à contribuição do processo de ensino-aprendizagens com base na informatização do ensino e transmissão do conhecimento por meio de suas ferramentas. Como metodologia, adotamos abordagens quali-quantitativas, utilizando o estudo de caso como procedimento técnico. Para a coleta de dados, foram elaborados questionários semiestruturados, com foco em comprovações de resultados, permitindo, assim, análises e opiniões que foram convertidos em gráficos, de modo a somarmos formalização teórica e objetiva da pesquisa. Os resultados mostraram que a prática docente se configura como elemento fundamental na relação entre professor e aluno, uma vez que demonstra ser a mais clara forma de se desenhar um cenário de autonomia no contexto educacional. Por meio da pesquisa, constatamos que é imprescindível que as TIC’s sejam compreendidas na utilização de metodologias por professores da EPT, pois não adianta só informatizar as escolas, mas todos os envolvidos dentro deste contexto. É preciso, principalmente, levantar esforços no sentido de capacitar os professores quanto à utilização destas, de modo que possam oportunizar mudanças na prática educativa. Podemos afirmar que as TIC’s são meios, ferramentas e caminhos valiosos e, fundamentais para desenvolver o processo de aprendizagem com mais facilidade, além de mostrar concepções e possibilidades de uma comunicação efetiva e positiva.
RESTAURAÇÃO FLORESTAL DE UMA ÁREA DE VEGETAÇÃO RIPÁRIA NO SÍTIO PAMPULHA, MUNICÍPIO DE LINHARES, ES
Authors: Boina Cau Letícia
Published: January 2020

A vegetação ciliar é essencial para qualidade e manutenção do curso hídrico, sendo considerada como Área de Preservação Permanente - APP conforme a Lei nº 12651/12, do Código Florestal. As matas ciliares, também especificadas por florestas ripárias, fornecem matéria orgânica e criam microhábitats dentro dos cursos d’água além de influenciarem na qualidade da água e proteção das margens reduzindo o assoreamento, protegem espécies da flora e fauna. Essas áreas, uma vez preservadas ou recuperadas, ao longo de todos os cursos d’água, são de grande importância, pois podem interligam fragmentos florestais ainda existentes. O Sítio Pampulha em Linhares/ ES, objeto deste estudo, possui uma barragem no curso hídrico e devido à ausência de vegetação e consequente comprometimento da preservação permanente em sua área, foi proposto para a propriedade a elaboração de um Plano de Recuperação de Áreas Degradadas (PRAD). O estudo visa apresentar diretrizes para elaboração de PRAD e restauração vegetal da área afetada, apresentando uma proposta metodológica de recuperação da área degradada considerando a descrição das fitofisionomias existentes no entorno das áreas de interesse bem como listar as espécies a serem utilizadas na recomposição da vegetação. Assim, com a implantação do PRAD e seu acompanhamento espera-se obter a restauração florestal do ambiente ciliar, proporcionando a recuperação do curso hídrico e sua manutenção, estabelecendo uma interligação da floresta existente com a nova vegetação.
ESTIMATIVA DO BALANÇO HÍDRICO CLIMATOLÓGICO E CLASSIFICAÇÃO CLIMÁTICA PARA O MUNICÍPIO DE BOM JESUS DA LAPA–BA
Authors: Souza Costa Taiara , Amaro de Sales Ramon , Jesus Santos Robson de , Argolo dos Santos Robson , Leal Santos Rosangela
Published: January 2020

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a disponibilidade hídrica através do Balanço Hídrico Climatológico e realizar a Classificação Climática, pelo método de Thornthwaite para o município de Bom Jesus da Lapa, Bahia. Para elaboração do Balanço Hídrico Climatológico foram utilizados dados mensais de precipitação e temperatura sendo esses dados provenientes de uma série de 38 anos, pertencente ao Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia. Foi adotado o valor de 100 mm para a capacidade de água disponível no solo (CAD). A Classificação Climática utiliza os dados de excesso e deficiência hídrica anual obtida do Balanço Hídrico Climatológico. Os resultados obtidos mostraram que a temperatura média anual foi de 26,37 ºC e a precipitação média anual é de 792,66 mm. Os meses de Janeiro a Novembro compreendem o período de deficiência hídrica, enquanto que Dezembro é representado por reposição hídrica. Quanto a Classificação Climática, o município possui o clima C1 w2 A’ a’ que corresponde ao clima sub-úmido seco com grande deficiência hídrica no inverno, megatérmico com concentração de evapotranspiração potencial no verão igual a 36,64% em relação à evapotranspiração anual.
Persisting high magnitude of anaemia in Women of Reproductive age
Authors: Chhabra S  , Poonam Varma Shivkumar  , Anuradha Khandekar
Published: January 2020

Background: Despite several steps taken by governments, anaemia remains a major cause of ill health in women globally, maybe it is increasing.

Objectives: Study was done to know magnitude of anaemia in women of reproductive age (WRA, 15-49 yrs) with mission of services.

Materials and Methods: It was institution based prospective study for knowing magnitude of anaemia in WRA. Study was carried out over 9 months in Obstetrics & Gynaecology, after approval of ethics committee of institute. Study subjects were non-pregnant women of 15-49 years of age who reported to hospital with various disorders, but did not have any disorder which could have been responsible for anaemia. Patients’ friends, relatives who volunteered to be part of study were also included. Women with known bleeding disorders, or obvious causes for anaemia like menorrhagia, piles, chronic diseases were not included. Pretested tool was used. As per inclusion criteria women from regular counter of obstetrics gynaecology outpatient. were directed to research assistant.

Results: Adolescents had maximum burden of anaemia, 76.15%, followed by 69.45% among women of 20-34 yrs, 65.21% in women of 35-49 yrs age. Severely anaemic were 2.02% among adolescents, 0.44% of 20-34 years ,0.27% among of 35-49 yrs. As expected, highest numbers were amongst women of low socio-economic class and illiterate.

Conclusion: Around seventy percent women of reproductive age with no obvious cause were anaemic, more of adolescents. It is essential that in depth studies are done about available food, eating habits, as anaemia continues to kill many mothers during pregnancy, birth, postbirth and affects baby too.

Keywords: Anaemia; Reproductive Age Women; No Obvious Cause
Обхват и цели на структурите за оценка на здравни технологии
Authors: Райчева Ралица , Стефанов Румен
Published: January 2020

Цел: Това проучване има за цел да идентифицира и критично анализира обхвата и целите на организациите за оценка на здравни технологии (ОЗТ).

Материал и методи: Извършено е международно уеб-базирано проучване на ОЗТ организации с разнообразен профил.

Резултати: Общо бяха попълнени 111 въпросници (35.58% възвращаемост) от 39 държави на 5 континента. Според сферата на въздействие на резултатите от дейността им, ОЗТ организациите оперират на следните нива – международно (n=61, 54.95±8.76%), национално (n=92, 82.88±9.74%), местно, регионално (n=73, 65.77±9.24%) и друго (n=6, 6.31±3.40%). Устав, който да определя дейността, реда и функционирането на организацията, е приет от 60.55±4.68% (n=60). От приоритетните за организацията сфери на дейност с най-голям относителен дял е оценката на здравни технологии 81.65±13.32% (n=89), последвана от дейности, свързани с политиката на здравеопазване 50.46±11.14% (n=55) и извършване на изследователска дейност 43.12±10.43% (n=47).

Заключение: Процесите на адаптация и приспособяване преминават и през тенденцията за изохронно изработване на доклади, научни изследвания в областта на здравните услуги и оценки на качеството в рамките на ОЗТ структурата. Развитието на дейността на агенциите в тези насоки отразява увереността, че знанията, необходими за управление на здравната система, базирани на научнообоснован подход, се простират отвъд обхвата на класическите ОЗТ доклади.
https://doi.org/10.36873/aev.v1
Authors: Journal Administrator
Published: January 2020

ABSTRACTRed-yellow podzolic soil is widespread in West Kotawaringin and mostly used as agricultural land. It causechanges in soil properties so that soil fertility analysis is needed. The research aims to study the chemistry andphysics of red-yellow podzolic, as a result of agricultural activities. The research was conducted by taking soilsamples from unmanaged land (control land) and oil palm plantations belong to KUD Tani Subur which appliedoil palm integration with cows in Pangkalan Lada, Central Kalimantan. In this study we conducted simple randomsampling method with 5 replications. Variables used as parameter in the study are porosity, bulk density, pH, Ctotal, N-total, P-available, Cation Exchange Capasity (CEC), base saturation (BS), Fe, and Al-exchangeable. Theresults show oil palm plantations have soil porosity 51,84%, bulk density 1,28 g cm-3, pH soil about 5,02-5,04;C-total 1,23-1,69%; N- total%; 0,06-0,11%, P-available 8,1-8,9 ppm; CEC 18,52-22,85 me 100g-1; BS 1,79-3,24; Fe 0,59-0,82 ppm; and Al- exchangeable 110,46-111,29 ppm, but control land have soil porosity 45,03%;bulk density 1,46 g cm-3; pH 5,04-5,13; C-total 0,76-1,05; N-total 0,09-0,19; P- available 9,3-9,7 ppm; CEC20,30-22,27 me 100g-1; BS 2,33-2,76%; Fe 0,02-0,68 ppm; and Al-ec 126,67-156,60 ppm. Land use of RYP soiltypes as oil palm plantations with semi- organic processing techniques does not degrade the soil, and couldincrease land productivity compared to unmanaged land.Keywords: RYP, soil chemistry and physics, different land use.
HUBUNGAN PENGETAHUAN IBU MENYUSUI TENTANG PEMBERIAN ASI DENGAN USIA PENYAPIHAN DI PUSKESMAS PASUNDAN SAMARINDA TAHUN 2017
Authors: Sholikah Imroatus , Ryan Ariestantia Dwi , Nur Rahmadhani Lathifah , Lidia Besse
Published: January 2020

ASI sebagai makanan alamiah adalah makanan terbaik bagi bayi. ASI juga mengandung zat pelindung yang dapat menghindari bayi dari berbagai penyakit infeksi.Periode pertumbuhan otak yang paling kritis dimulai dari janin sampai anak berusia 2 tahun, apabila pada masa tersebut anak menderita kekurangan gizi dapat berpengaruh negatif terhadap jumlah dan ukuran sel otaknya, dalam hal ini pemberian ASI hingga 2 tahun sangat dianjurkan. Penelitian ini menggunakan adalah analitik korelasional dengan pendekatan cross sectional. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah ibu yang mempunyai balita berumur 24 bulan di Puskesmas Pasundan pada bulan Mei-Juni adalah 148 orang dengan jumlah sampel 34 orang dengan menggunakan tekhnik accidental sampling. Pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner. Analisis statistik menggunakan uji Chi Square dengan α = 0,05 Analisa data dalam penelitian ini menggunakan uji statistik dengan menggunakan uji Chi Square diketahui bahwa nilai p < α (0,009< 0,05) dan X² hitung > X² tabel (9,457> 5,591), dengan demikian artinya ada hubungan antara pengetahuan ibu menyusui tentang pemberian ASI di Puskesmas Pasundan Samarinda tahun 2017.
Outcomes of Advanced Retinoblastoma Treated with Local Salvage Treatment; a Retrospective Case Series.
Authors: Rehman Palwasha , Javed Khan Saadiya
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Retinoblastoma (RB) is the most common intraocular malignancy arising from the developing retina and occurs in approximately one of every 15,000–20,000 births. With the introduction of the intraarterialchemotherapy (IAC), the 5-year overall survival of children with RB is 99%, though in low- and middle-income countries, it rarely exceeds 35% due to limited resources and lack of expertise. The aim of this study was to determine the outcome of local salvage in advanced RB. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on children diagnosed with advanced RB that had local salvage therapy along with systemic chemotherapy from January 2015 to January 2018 at Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan. Results: Fifteen patients were included in the study, among these 10 were male. The median age of presentation was 20 months (range 2–40 months). Among participants, 11 patients had bilateral RB. Fourteen patients received local control along with systemic chemotherapy. Relapse disease was seen in 12 patients and 2-year disease-free survival (DFS) was 20%. Conclusion: The results of the present study suggest that centres lacking the resources for IAC should treat advance cases of RB with an upfront or early enucleation.
Recent Changes to the Editorial Policies
Authors: Nasir Khawaja Shehryar
Published: January 2020

An overview of the recent editorial and structural changes that have taken place in the Journal of Cancer & Allied Specialties.
Pre-operative Occurrence of First Bite Syndrome in Two Cases of Parotid Gland Tumour
Authors: Nasir Khawaja Shehryar , Hussain Raza , Jamshed Arif
Published: January 2020

Introduction: First bite syndrome (FBS) is a gustatory-evoked painful condition that is characterized by the onset of severe electric-shock like pain in the periauricular region. In the majority of patients, FBS develops post-operatively. However, in rare instances it may present in a preoperative setting. Case description: Two cases of FBS developing preoperatively secondary to parotid gland tumour are presented.  The patients, 54 and 30 years old, presented with complaints of electric-shock like pain localized over the periauricular region. In each case the pain was triggered following first bite of the meal. In both cases, pain lasted for a few seconds and with subsequent bites subsided only to return at the beginning of next meal. Practical implications: Preoperative occurrence of FBS in the absence of a history of trauma or surgery should necessitate a thorough investigation and follow up for an underlying salivary gland tumour.
Could climate engineering save the Greenland Ice Sheet?
Authors: Applegate Patrick J. , Keller K.
Published: January 2020

Engineering the climate through albedo modification (AM) could slow, but probably would not stop, melting of the Greenland Ice Sheet. Albedo modification is a technology that could reduce surface air temperatures through putting reflective particles into the upper atmosphere. AM has never been tested, but it might reduce surface air temperatures faster and more cheaply than reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Some scientists claim that AM would also prevent or reverse sea-level rise. But, are these claims true? The Greenland Ice Sheet will melt faster at higher temperatures, adding to sea-level rise. However, it's not clear that reducing temperatures through AM will stop or reverse sea-level rise due to Greenland Ice Sheet melting. We used a computer model of the Greenland Ice Sheet to examine its contributions to future sea level rise, with and without AM. Our results show that AM would probably reduce the rate of sea-level rise from the Greenland Ice Sheet. However, sea-level rise would likely continue even with AM, and the ice sheet would not regrow quickly. Albedo modification might buy time to prepare for sea-level rise, but problems could arise if policymakers assume that AM will stop sea-level rise completely.
Will climate change worsen your health?
Authors: Ballester Joan
Published: January 2020

Nearly 8% of deaths in Europe are due to ambient temperatures, and global warming represents an additional threat for public health. Despite the fact that we expect more frequent, intense and persistent heat waves during the present century, it is actually not clear whether the number of attributable deaths will also increase. Here I discuss why the role of early adaptation to temperature rise is a major ongoing research topic in science and policy-making, and how these eventual acclimatization processes depend on a myriad of non-climate factors such as the air quality in cities, social differences within and between societies, demographic changes or the evolution of the economy.
Heat stress and inadequate toilet access at work places in India – a potential hazard to working women in a changing climate
Authors: Venugopal Vidhya , Shanmugam Rekha , Johnson Priscilla , Lucas Rebekah Ann Isabel , Jakobsson Kristina
Published: January 2020

In the past few decades, increasingly blistering heat due to climate change has created more illnesses and claimed more lives worldwide, an issue mostly ignored because it's an invisible hazard and hard-to-document disaster. Victims are usually vulnerable populations, including workers exposed on a daily basis to heat, who not only suffer from heat illnesses but also from an exacerbation of existing health problems aggravated by heat and dehydration. Research has proved that heat is a higher risk for female workers, who are affected far more often than their male counterparts. India’s informal economy is dominated by the female workforce and many informal workplaces have minimal welfare facilities including toilets. One of the modifiable factors that influence workplace psychology is the lack of access to a private toilet. To avoid embarrassment or harassment, many women refrain from drinking water during the day in order to limit their trips to the toilet, a potentially deadly strategy during hot seasons which has adverse health consequences. A global trend especially in developing nations evidences a higher number of women entering the workforce. With this trend and rising temperatures, the issue is expected to escalate to significant proportions unless workplace interventions and policy level actions are taken at a national level to protect women workers.
Formation of Halogen-bearing Species. II. Irradiation of Chloromethane in Carbon Monoxide Ice with VUV Light and Electrons
Authors: Lin Meng-Yeh , Huang Tzu-Ping , Wu Pei-Zhen , Chin Chih-Hao , Wu Yu-Jong
Published: January 2020

The synthesis of chlorine-bearing species in CO ice was studied by the irradiation of CH3Cl:CO ice at 10 K with vacuum-ultraviolet (VUV) light and energetic electrons. In contrast to the photochemical behavior of CH3F:CO ice, photolysis of CH3Cl:CO ice with Lyα or broadband VUV light afforded various products. This discrepancy was attributed to the abundant absorption bands of CH3Cl in the VUV region, particularly in the Lyα region. The Cl-bearing species including Cl2O, ClCO, C3Cl2, C3HCl, and HOOCl were characterized by observing their IR features. In contrast, electron bombardment of ice mixtures produced various carbon oxides and primary products, such as CH2Cl and HCO. In addition, the mechanism of energetic processes in electron bombardment was discussed.
The Mass Relations between Supermassive Black Holes and Their Host Galaxies at 1 < z < 2 with HST-WFC3
Authors: Ding Xuheng , Silverman John , Treu Tommaso , Schulze Andreas , Schramm Malte , Birrer Simon , Park Daeseong , Jahnke Knud , Bennert Vardha N. , Kartaltepe Jeyhan S. , Koekemoer Anton M. , Malkan Matthew A. , Sanders David
Published: January 2020

Correlations between the mass of a supermassive black hole (SMBH) and the properties of its host galaxy (e.g., total stellar mass M
*, luminosity L
host) suggest an evolutionary connection. A powerful test of a coevolution scenario is to measure the relations



BH

–L
host and



BH

–M
* at high redshift and compare with local estimates. For this purpose, we acquired Hubble Space Telescope (HST) imaging with WFC3 of 32 X-ray-selected broad-line (type 1) active galactic nuclei at 1.2 < z < 1.7 in deep survey fields. By applying state-of-the-art tools to decompose the HST images including available ACS data, we measured the host galaxy luminosity and stellar mass along with other properties through the two-dimensional model fitting. The black hole mass (



BH

) was determined using the broad Hα line, detected in the near-infrared with the Subaru Fiber Multi-Object Spectrograph, which potentially minimizes systematic effects using other indicators. We find that the observed ratio of



BH

to total M
* is 2.7× larger at z ∼ 1.5 than in the local universe, while the scatter is equivalent between the two epochs. A nonevolving mass ratio is consistent with the data at the 2σ–3σ confidence level when accounting for selection effects (estimated using two independent and complementary methods) and their uncertainties. The relationship between



BH

and host galaxy total luminosity paints a similar picture. Therefore, our results cannot distinguish whether SMBHs and their total host stellar mass and luminosity proceed in lockstep or whether the growth of the former somewhat overshoots the latter, given the uncertainties. Based on a statistical estimate of the bulge-to-total mass fraction, the ratio



BH

/M
*,bulge is offset from the local value by a factor of ∼7, which is significant even accounting for selection effects. Taken together, these observations are consistent with a scenario in which stellar mass is subsequently transferred from an angular momentum–supported component of the galaxy to a pressure-supported one through secular processes or minor mergers at a faster rate than mass accretion onto the SMBH.
Target regional size and structure of the population of the Russian Federation: possibilities to identify and achieve
Authors: Edinak Ekaterina A. , Korovkin Andrey G. , Korolev Ivan B.
Published: January 2020

Abstract

The article proposes a solution of the task of achieving the target regional population size and structure, which would be sustainable in the long term, by means of managing its movement. The significance of this task is justified by the growing concentration of population and labour in a few number of Russia’s regions in the current and projected periods, primarily due to migration processes. The apparatus of matrix equations is used to shape the conditions for reaching the target size and structure of the population. The article presents the estimates of the equilibrium population of the Russian Federation and the possibilities of reaching the target population size in prospect. The demographic forecast of Rosstat up to 2035 in three variants is considered as a target. For each of variants, the required increase of population via birth and immigration is calculated. The possibilities to assess the need in population inflow and to achieve the target population size by using the methodology proposed in the article are shown by the case of the Far Eastern Federal District. It is argued that nowadays a crucial element of social and economic policy in the regions should be creation of new jobs with higher labour productivity and therefore, reduction of the need for foreign labour migrants in the Russian labour market.
Perception of population ageing and age discrimination across EU countries
Authors: Rychtaříková Jitka
Published: January 2020

Population ageing is the most dominant demographic challenge that the European Union is experiencing in the 21st century. This may create negative attitudes and lead to discrimination against persons of advanced age. Age-related stereotypes and prejudice can result in age discrimination, termed ageism. This research concerns the question of perceived ageism towards older people in 25 EU countries, surveyed in 2015 using the Special Eurobarometer 437. The analytical section includes descriptive findings and the results of three multi-level regression models addressing three domains (explained variables) of perceived ageism: 1) discrimination in general, 2) discrimination during economic crisis, and 3) discrimination when electing an older person as a high official. The two-level regression allowed simultaneous modelling of individual-level (gender, age, partnership status, social class, and life satisfaction) and of country-level (life expectancy at 55, perceived start of old age, and HDI) effects. The personal characteristics impacted much stronger perceived ageism than country contexts. Ageist perception in general has mostly been noted at pre-retirement age, but the age profile has not been the same across three regression models. The East-West gradient, frequently reported, is questioned because the geographical picture of perceived ageism is rather puzzling.
Thermal Manipulation of Bone Cement
Authors: Jiranek William
Published: January 2020

abstract

Many factors affect the rate of polymerization of poly methylmethaery late (PMMA) and, therefore, the working timé of bone cement. Surgeons may control some factors, but not all. A surgeon may change the température of the powder and the monomer, whereas the temperature and relative humidity of the operating room are more difficult to alter. The temperature of the mixing vessels msy also be controlled. However, a surgeon has no control over the industrial mixture of the components of the bone cement, which can vary considerably from batch to batch. This article reviews the effect of temperature of cement mixtures on the working time of the cement, the irtterfacial strength of the cement-metal interface as well as the cement-bone interface, and tissue viability and cellular change at the bone-cement interface.
Long-term Follow-up Studies of Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Berry Daniel J
Published: January 2020

abstract

Long-term follow-up studies of cemented total hip arthroplasty (THA) are restricted to a few successful designs. The most studied design, the Charnley THA, has demonstrated excellent, though not perfect, survivorship at long-term follow-up in most studies, Patient-related factors including age, gender, and patient diagnosis, affect implant survivorship.
New Technology in Cemented Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Fisher David A
Published: January 2020

abstract

The long-term results of total hip arthroplasty (THA) are predicated by excellent surgical techniques. New technology offers the hope of improving outcomes by providing to surgeons tools that make surgical procedures predictable. Techniques that improve the bone-cement-prosthesis composite should enhance long-term fixation. Less invasive surgical techniques that allow rapid recovery from THA have been recently described. Image-guided surgery may enable surgeons to accurately reconstruct the arthritic hip and improve outcomes.
Use of a Sliding Trochanteric Osteotomy for Supra-Cotyloid Exposure of Posterior-Superior Acetabular Fracture Patterns
Authors: Agudelo Juan F , Ziran Bruce H , Smith Wade R , Scatamogna Domenic
Published: January 2020

This article presents the surgical technique of using the sliding trochanteric osteotomy through a Kocher-Langenbeck approach.
Medical Management in the Elderly: Do You Know the Risks?
Authors: Freml Jared M , Smith Kelly M
Published: January 2020

Knowledge of potential adverse drug events should minimize inappropriate prescribing habits and result in better patient outcomes.
Exploring Financial Literacy Programmes Delivered by the Sri Lankan Microfinance Institutions: A Case Study Approach
Authors: Premarathne W. G. I. D. , Abeysekera R.
Published: January 2020

According to the Global Financial Literacy Survey done by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services, in 2014 only 35% of adults were financially literate in Sri Lanka. However, Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) were struggling to improve this rate and there is a dearth of research covering this critical area utilizing a qualitative approach. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to focus on the critical, yet an under-researched dimension of Microfinance (MF), the intercession of MFIs in delivering FL to the MF clientele focusing on profiles such as delivering channels, importance, constraints and strategies to address. The multiple case study method was used in this study as the research methodology.  The data were gathered from a purposive sample using in-depth interviews. The findings show that channels of delivering Financial Literacy  (FL) are Social Mobilization Programmes, seminars, training programmes, community committees, and credit societies, and the importance of delivering FL is; enhancement of human capital, the sustainability of industry and firm, upgrade new venture survival, client protection,  social and economic empowerment and development. Further, the barriers to deliver FL; budget, industry competition, in active participation, attitudes of clients, the contribution of inactive regulatory bodies and external barriers were investigated with the strategies adopted in addressing barriers; community awareness, motivational strategies, regulatory framework and cost addressing strategies. These findings contribute to both the knowledge and practice domains. They have implications for policy makers in paying attention to make a financially literate clientele in the MF discipline.
Outbreaks of dengue in Central India in 2016
Authors: Tiwari Shraddha , Shukla Mohan K. , Chand Gyan , Sahare Lalit , Ukey Mahendra J. , Joshi Piyush , Khedekar Rameshwar , Singh Neeru , Barde Pradip V.
Published: January 2020

Background & objectives:

Dengue virus (DENV) causes outbreaks and sporadic cases in tropical and subtropical countries. Documenting intricacies of DEN outbreaks is important for future interventions. The objective of this study was to report clinical, laboratory and epidemiological features of DEN outbreaks reported in different districts of Central India in 2016.

Methods:

In 2016, outbreaks (n=4) suspected of DEN were investigated by rapid response team. Door-to-door fever and entomological surveys were conducted. Blood samples were collected and tested using NS1 or IgM ELISA; real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was done to identify serotypes of DEN virus (DENV). NS1-positive samples were tested for the presence of IgG by ELISA. Clinical and demographic data were collected and analyzed.

Results:

Outbreaks occurred in both urban and rural areas in monsoon season and Aedes aegypti was identified as the vector. Fever, chills, headache and myalgia were the major symptoms; no fatality was recorded. Of the 268 DEN suspects, 135 (50.4%) were found serologically positive. DEN positivity was higher (n=75; 55.56%) among males and in the age group of 16-45 yr (n=78; 57.8%). DENV 3 followed by DENV 2 were detected as the major responsible serotypes. High attack rates (up to 38/1000) and low cumulative IgG prevalence (14.9%) were recorded in rural areas.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our study showed that DENV 3 was the major serotype responsible for outbreaks that occurred in monsoon. High attack rates and lower number of secondary infections in rural areas indicated that DENV is emerging in rural parts of Central India. Early diagnosis at local level and timely intervention by mosquito control activities are needed to avoid such outbreaks in future.
A prospective study of non-tuberculous mycobacterial disease among tuberculosis suspects at a tertiary care centre in north India
Authors: Sharma Surendra Kumar , Sharma Rohini , Singh Binit Kumar , Upadhyay Vishwanath , Mani Indra , Tripathi Madhavi , Kumar Prahlad
Published: January 2020

Background & objectives:

The burden of non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) disease is increasing worldwide. The disease shares clinicoradiological features with tuberculosis (TB), Nocardia and several fungal diseases, and its diagnosis is frequently delayed. The present study was performed to determine the frequency of NTM disease among TB suspects in a tertiary care centre in north India.

Methods:

In this prospective study, mycobacterial culture isolates from pulmonary and extrapulmonary specimens among TB suspects were tested with immunochromatographic assay (ICA). All ICA-negative isolates were considered as NTM suspects and further subjected to 16S-23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer gene sequencing for confirmation and species identification. Patients with active disease were treated with drug regimen as per the identified NTM species. Follow up of patients was done to determine clinical, radiological and microbiological outcomes.

Results:

Of the 5409 TB suspects, 42 (0.77%) were diagnosed with NTM disease. Patients with active disease consenting for treatment were treated and followed up. Thirty four patients had NTM pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) and the remaining eight had extrapulmonary NTM (EP-NTM) disease. Mycobacterium intracellulare and M. abscessus, respectively, were most frequently isolated from NTM-PD and EP-NTM patients. Fifteen NTM-PD and seven EP-NTM patients successfully completed the treatment. Ten patients died due to unrelated causes, five were lost to follow up and another four declined the treatment.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our study showed that the frequency of NTM disease was low among TB suspects at a large tertiary care centre in north India and this finding was similar to other Indian studies. More studies need to be done in other parts of the country to know the geographical variation in NTM disease, if any.
Japanese encephalitis virus-induced neuropathology in mouse model infected through the conjunctival route
Authors: Sethi Menaka , Das Tareni , Tomar Neelam , John Jeny K. , Dubal Zunjar B. , Rajak Kaushal K. , Singh Rajendra , Saikumar G.
Published: January 2020

Background & objectives:

Mouse is a preferred animal model for studying pathogenesis of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) infections, and different routes of inoculation have been tried. Some neurotropic viruses can reach the brain following infection through ocular route. This study was undertaken to establish JEV-induced clinical disease in mouse model through conjunctival route and document the neuropathological effects.

Methods:

Ten two-week old Swiss albino mice were inoculated with 5 μl Vero cell cultured virus containing 104.7 TCID50 JEV through conjunctival route. Clinical signs of mice were observed twice daily. After necropsy examination, different organs including eyes and olfactory bulbs were collected for histopathological examination, quantification of viral copy number and antigen by real-time TaqMan assay and immunohistochemistry, respectively.

Results:

Infected mice showed characteristic clinical signs of JE by 4 days post-infection (dpi). Histopathological lesions in brain included perivascular cuffing by mononuclear cells, focal gliosis, necrosis of neurons and neuronophagia and astrocytosis in the cerebrum, cerebellum and the brainstem. JEV viral load was highest in the brain followed by intestine, heart, liver, spleen, lung and kidney. JEV antigen was detected in the bipolar and ganglion cells of the retina and in the mitral cells and periglomerular cells of olfactory bulb and other parts of the brain.

Interpretation & conclusions:

JEV infection in mice through conjunctival route produced characteristic clinical signs of the disease and neuropathological lesions. Demonstration of JEV antigen in association with neuropathological lesions in the central nervous system and neuronal cells of the eye showed that conjunctival route could be an effective alternate route for virus invasion into the brain. These findings have biosafety implications for researchers, veterinary practitioners and pig farmers.
Effect of different methods of pasteurization on bactericidal action of human milk
Authors: Patil Savita , Ananthan Anitha , Nanavati Ruchi Nimish , Nataraj Gita , Prasad Priyanka
Published: January 2020

Background & objectives:

Pasteurization involves not only inactivation of pathogens, but also loss of immunological functions and bactericidal action of human milk. Hence, this study was aimed to explore the stability of such bactericidal action after subjecting human milk samples to thermal pasteurization under different condition of time and temperature.

Methods:

In this observational study 48 human milk samples were analyzed over a period of three months. The effect of holder and flash methods of pasteurization on bactericidal action against Escherichia coli was evaluated compared to the control sample before and after 72 h of storage at −18°C.

Results:

Both holder and flash methods of pasteurization showed significant reduction in the E. coli growth to 46.4 and 25.5 per cent, respectively, after 24 h of incubation (P<0.001). The bactericidal activity was significantly more in samples subjected to holder method compared to flash method before and after 72 h of storage (46.41±15.38 vs. 25.50±30.74, P<0.001 and 42.27±20.38 vs. 18.33±28.55, P<0.001).

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our results showed that the bactericidal activity of human milk was better preserved by the holder method of pasteurization. Further well-powered and well-designed randomized trials are needed to confirm the findings.
Status of adult immunity to hepatitis A virus in healthcare workers from a tertiary care hospital in north India
Authors: Chauhan Sanshriti , Agarwal Jyotsna , Jain Amita , Sawlani K.K. , Gupta Prashant , Goel Abhishek , Verma Neera , Himanshu D.
Published: January 2020

Background & objectives:

Humans are considered to be the principal host for hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection. In India, heterogeneous groups of susceptible individuals coexist in different regions. There has been a decline in antibody titres to HAV among young adults which may pose a major public health problem. The objective of this study was to assess the IgG anti-HAV level among healthcare workers (HCWs) in the age group of 20-60 yr and its association with the socio-demographic variables.

Methods:

Blood sample (2 ml) was collected under aseptic conditions from each participant followed by the preparation of serum and storing at −20°C. ELISA-based kits were used for the determination of IgG antibodies to HAV in the human serum samples.

Results:

Two hundred and fifty four HCWs were enrolled. IgG anti-HAV antibodies were detected in 97.2 per cent of the samples analyzed. No differences were observed in the levels of IgG anti-HAV antibody and education, income, occupation and socio-economic classes of the HCWs. A seropositivity rate of over 90 per cent was seen amongst all the socio-economic classes.

Interpretation & conclusions:

High levels of IgG protective antibodies were seen among the studied HCWs, hence HAV vaccination may not be required. It will be advisable to do a cost-benefit analysis of vaccination for HAV.
Gender specification of Polish nouns naming people: language system and public debate arguments
Authors: Kiełkiewicz-Janowiak Agnieszka
Published: January 2020

Changes in language practices take place against a backdrop of social pressures for greater gender equality. The topic of the current paper concerns the grammatical and social complexities of a language reform for gender fair representation in the Polish context. The “socially-motivated” language reform, which aims to enhance social equality, is underpinned but also challenged by the language systemon the one hand and by public debate on the other. Therefore, grammatical constraints afforded by the language system need to be investigated in the context of the social attitudes to gender relations in Poland as well as attitudes to the proposed linguistic innovations. It is our aim here to reflect upon the current social debate about the process of ongoing language change, more specifically to consider the relevant linguistic and social arguments. These arguments used are discussed, as revealed in a close analysis of a range of texts of varying genre, social reach and significance, written as a reaction to usage dilemmas often faced by the speakers. The texts were collected between January 2014 and November 2019.  The paper concludes with suggestions of the best policy to deal with a highly controversial socio-linguistic issue.
(Ne)strpno o spolu: primerjava angleških in slovenskih argumentov proti uvajanju sprememb v seksistični rabi jezika
Authors: Mikić Jasna , Kalin Golob Monika
Published: January 2020

Z vstopom žensk na področje javne sfere in družbenih odnosov so se začela spreminjati tudi ostala področja življenja, kar je sprožilo potrebo po kulturni preobrazbi, predvsem na ravni jezika (Irigaray 1998, 119), ki bi ustrezno predstavljal in nagovarjal oba spola. Eno pomembnejših vprašanj, ki so si ga v povezavi s tem v času drugega feminističnega vala postavljale številne feministične jezikoslovke in jezikoslovci, je, kako lahko izkoreninjenje jezikovnega seksizma vpliva na položaj žensk in moških v družbi. Številni nasprotniki in nasprotnice jezikovnih sprememb in uvajanja neseksističnih alternativ se s predpostavkami neposredne povezave med družbo in jezikom niso strinjali, za kar so navajali številne argumente. Namen prispevka je osvetliti klasične argumente, ki so se v tuji (angleški) literaturi proti uvajanju jezikovnih sprememb pojavljali v 70. letih prejšnjega stoletja in poiskati vzporednice z aktualnimi argumenti slovenskih jezikoslovk in jezikoslovcev ter drugih strokovnjakov in strokovnjakinj. Argumente nizava upoštevajoč posebnosti angleščine in slovenščine, tj. dveh jezikov, ki različno izražata in razumeta (slovnični) spol. V tem smislu je zanimivo ugotoviti, koliko so si agrumenti proti uvedbi jezikovnih sprememb podobni (tj. so splošni in veljajo za vse jezike) in v katerih kategorijah se razlikujejo (tj. so jezikovno specifični). Glede na to, da gre tudi za dve različni časovni obdobji, nam bo informacija o podobnosti argumentov sporočala tudi podatek o zmožnosti preživetja določenih mnenj skozi čas. Cilj prispevka, pa tudi dolgoročni interes je bolje razumeti razmišljanje nasprotnikov in nasprotnic jezikovnih sprememb na podlagi poznavanja njihovih argumentov, kar vidiva kot enega od pristopov k (morebitnemu) skupnemu sodelovanju v zvezi s tovrstnimi vprašanji v prihodnje.
FTIR time series of tropospheric HCN in eastern China: seasonality, interannual variability and source attribution
Authors: Sun Youwen , Liu Cheng , Zhang Lin , Palm Mathias , Notholt Justus , Yin Hao , Vigouroux Corinne , Lutsch Erik , Wang Wei , Shan Changong , Blumenstock Thomas , Nagahama Tomoo , Morino Isamu , Mahieu Emmanuel , Strong Kimberly , Langerock Bavo , De Maziere Martine , Hu Qihou , Zhang Huifang , Petri Christoph , Liu Jianguo
Published: January 2020

Abstract. We analyzed seasonality and interannual variability of tropospheric HCN column amounts in densely populated eastern China for the first time. The results were derived from solar absorption spectra recorded with ground-based high spectral resolution Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer at Hefei (117°10′ E, 31°54′ N) between 2015 and 2018. The tropospheric HCN columns over Hefei, China showed significant seasonal variations with three monthly mean peaks throughout the year. The magnitude of the tropospheric HCN column peak in May > September > December. The tropospheric HCN column reached a maximum of (9.8 ± 0.78) × 1015 molecules/cm2 in May and a minimum of (7.16 ± 0.75) × 1015 molecules/cm2 in November. In most cases, the tropospheric HCN columns at Hefei (32° N) are higher than the FTIR observations at Ny Alesund (79° N), Kiruna (68° N), Bremen (53° N), Jungfraujoch (47° N), Toronto (44° N), Rikubetsu (43° N), Izana (28° N), Mauna Loa (20° N), La Reunion Maido (21° S), Lauder (45° S), and Arrival Heights (78° S) that are affiliated with the Network for Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC). Enhancements of the tropospheric HCN columns were observed between September 2015 and July 2016 compared to the counterpart measurements in other years. The magnitude of the enhancement ranges from 5 to 46 % with an average of 22 %. Enhancement of tropospheric HCN (ΔHCN) is correlated with the coincident enhancement of tropospheric CO (ΔCO), indicating that enhancements of tropospheric CO and HCN were due to the same sources. The GEOS-Chem tagged CO simulation, the global fire maps and the PSCFs (Potential Source Contribution Function) calculated using back trajectories revealed that the seasonal maxima in May is largely due to the influence of biomass burning in South Eastern Asia (SEAS) (41 ± 13.1 %), Europe and Boreal Asia (EUBA) (21 ± 9.3 %) and Africa (AF) (22 ± 4.7 %). The seasonal maxima in September is largely due to the influence of biomass burnings in EUBA (38 ± 11.3 %), AF (26 ± 6.7 %), SEAS (14 ± 3.3 %), and Northern America (NA) (13.8 ± 8.4 %). For the seasonal maxima in December, dominant contributions are from AF (36 ± 7.1 %), EUBA (21 ± 5.2 %), and NA (18.7 ± 5.2 %). The tropospheric HCN enhancement between September 2015 and July 2016 at Hefei (32° N) were attributed to an elevated influence of biomass burnings in SEAS, EUBA, and Oceania (OCE) in this period. Particularly, an elevated fire number in OCE in the second half of 2015 dominated the tropospheric HCN enhancement in September–December 2015. An elevated fire number in SEAS in the first half of 2016 dominated the tropospheric HCN enhancement in January–July 2016.
Performance evaluation of THz Atmospheric Limb Sounder (TALIS) of China
Authors: Wang Wenyu , Wang Zhenzhan , Duan Yongqiang
Published: January 2020

Abstract. THz Atmospheric Limb Sounder (TALIS) is a microwave limb sounder being developed for atmospheric vertically resolved profile observations by the National Space Science Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences (NSSC, CAS). It is designed to measure temperature and chemical species such as O3, HCl, ClO, N2O, NO, NO2, HOCl, H2O, HNO3, HCN, CO, SO2, BrO, HO2, H2CO, CH3Cl, CH3OH, and CH3CN with a high vertical resolution from about 10 to 100 km to improve our comprehension of atmospheric chemistry and dynamics and
to monitor the man-made pollution in the atmosphere. Four heterodyne
radiometers including several FFT spectrometers of 2 GHz bandwidth with 2 MHz resolution are employed to obtain the atmospheric thermal emission in broad spectral regions centred near 118, 190, 240, and 643 GHz. A
theoretical simulation is performed to estimate the retrieval precision of
the main targets and to compare them with that of Aura MLS standard
spectrometers. Single scan measurement and averaged measurement are considered in the simulation, respectively. The temperature profile can be obtained
with a precision of <2 K for a single scan from 10 to 60 km by
using the 118 GHz radiometer, and the 240 and 643 GHz radiometers can provide
temperature information in the upper troposphere. Chemical species such as
H2O, O3, and HCl show a relatively good single scan retrieval precision of <20 % over most of the useful range and ClO, N2O, and HNO3 can be retrieved with a precision of <50 %. The other species should be retrieved by using averaged measurements because of the weak intensity and/or low abundance.