bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interventions to Decrease Inappropriate Antibiotic Use for Non-acute Respiratory Illness in Long-Term Care Settings
Authors: Barnes Joy M. , Bradshaw Pamela
Published: June 2019

Background: The life-saving power of antibiotics could be lost forever if leaders fail to implement effective antibiotic stewardship programs at all healthcare levels. Grahams’ Knowledge to Action theory guided the development of an antibiotic stewardship program in a long-term care facility that had received a citation for having no active antibiotic stewardship program as required by federal regulations. Purpose: The purpose of this project was to develop and implement an evidence-based antibiotic stewardship program into one long-term care facility. Methods and Materials: This quality improvement project was a population-based systems charter development. The implementation intervention was designed to change the way health care professionals treat non-acute episodes of upper respiratory infections in a long-term care setting. This project utilized the suspected lower respiratory infection (LRI) Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation (SBAR) form to reduce the number of antibiotics given during the early part of cold and influenza season of 2018. An antibiotic stewardship policy was developed by multidisciplinary team members and then implemented into the facilities daily practice. Results: The point-prevalence rate of antibiotics within this facility dropped from 24% in 2017 to 6% in 2018 after implementation of the antibiotic stewardship program. Conclusion: This project demonstrates how long-term care facilities can successfully implement an antibiotic stewardship program and potentially improve overall healthcare outcomes for the residents.
Complement and T Cell Metabolism: Food for Thought
Authors: West Erin E. , Kemper Claudia
Published: June 2019

The classical complement system is engrained in the mind of scientists and clinicians as a blood-operative key arm of innate immunity, critically required for the protection against invading pathogens. Recent work, however, has defined a novel and unexpected role for an intracellular complement system—the complosome—in the regulation of key metabolic events that underlie peripheral human T cell survival as well as the induction and cessation of their effector functions. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the emerging vital role of the complosome in T cell metabolism and discusses how viewing the evolution of the complement system from an “unconventional” vantage point could logically account for the development of its metabolic activities.
RISCOS SOCIOAMBIENTAIS ORIUNDOS DA LIBERAÇÃO DE ORGANISMOS GENETICAMENTE MODIFICADOS NO AMBIENTE
Authors: Winckler Silvana Terezinha , Munarini Ana Elsa
Published: June 2019

O Brasil é reconhecido internacionalmente como detentor de significativa parcela da biodiversidade do Planeta e como grande exportador de commodities agrícolas. A agricultura, quer seja na modalidade do agronegócio ou nos moldes das unidades familiares de produção, é uma atividade fundamental para a economia do país e para a segurança alimentar dos brasileiros. Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar os riscos oriundos dos Organismos Geneticamente Modificados (OGMs) à natureza e à livre determinação camponesa, com ênfase na proteção legal conferida pelo Direito brasileiro. Adota-se como como metodologias a revisão de literatura e a pesquisa empírica, mediante realização de entrevistas com camponeses da região oeste de Santa Catarina vinculados a movimentos sociais do campo. Conclui-se que os OGMs representam uma ameaça à agricultura camponesa devido ao contágio das sementes crioulas. A legislação vigente não atende as necessidades de proteção das sementes, questão essencial à livre determinação camponesa
ENTRE DIÁSPORAS E INSURGÊNCIAS: A LUTA ANTIRRACISTA DAS COMUNIDADES QUILOMBOLAS NO BRASIL NA PERSPECTIVA DA EDUCAÇÃO INTERCULTURAL
Authors: Lima Fernanda Da Silva , Crocetta Bruna Baggio
Published: June 2019

Este artigo traz como problemática verificar de que forma a educação intercultural pode se constituir como ferramenta da luta antirracista e do reconhecimento cultural e jurídico (material) das comunidades remanescentes de quilombo no Brasil? Como hipótese tem-se que a educação intercultural é orientada por meio do reconhecimento do Outro e do diálogo entre os diversos povos e culturas. O artigo tem como objetivo geral estudar as comunidades quilombolas na perspectiva da educação intercultural comprometida com a luta antirracista e da luta contra o processo de invisibilidade e apagamento cultural imposto pela colonialidade. O trabalho está dividido em dois objetivos específicos, o primeiro tem a finalidade de compreender os quilombos desde a sua formação histórica até o seu processo de reconhecimento jurídico-formal estabelecido no texto constitucional. O segundo analisa a interculturalidade como ferramenta importante na luta pelos direitos humanos e pelo direito de (re)existir das comunidades quilombolas. O método é dedutivo, envolvendo pesquisa bibliográfica e procedimento monográfico.
ANALISIS EFEKTIVITAS DAN EFEK SAMPING PENGGUNAAN CLOPIDOGREL TUNGGAL DAN KOMBINASI CLOPIDOGREL- ASPILET PADA PASIEN STROKE ISKEMIK DI RSUP DR.WAHIDIN SUDIROHUSODO MAKASSAR
Authors: Inayah Nurul , Manggau Marianti A. , Amran Yunus
Published: June 2019

Aspilet dan Clopidogrel merupakan antiplatelet yang dapat digunakan tunggal maupun kombinasi, beberapa penelitian telah dilakukan dengan membandingkan efektivitas keduanya menunjukkan tidak ada perbedaan yang signifikan. Di Indonesia, belum pernah dilakukan penelitian mengenai manfaat dan efek samping penggunaan Clopidogrel tunggal maupun kombinasi Clopidogrel-Aspilet. Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui efektivitas penggunaan Clopidogrel tunggal dan kombinasi Clopidogrel-Aspilet untuk mencapai nilai normal Protrombin Time (PT) dan Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT) serta perbaikan klinis berdasarkan Barthel Index (BI) dan melihat efek samping penggunaan terapi terhadap gastrointestinal. Desain penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian observasional prospektif dan retrospektif. Jumlah sampel 26 pasien, terdiri dari penggunaan Clopidogrel tunggal (kelompok I) dan kombinasi Clopidogrel-Aspilet (kelompok II). Hasil pemeriksaan PT sebelum pemberian terapi, pada kelompok I (9,46+0,518) dan kelompok II (9,65+0,688) dengan nilai p=0,545, nilai APTT pada kelompok I (21,30+0,630) dan kelompok II (21,53+1,198), nilai p=0,920. Setelah memperoleh terapi tampak bahwa perubahan nilai PT terhadap kelompok I (11,38+1,120) dan kelompok II (11,00+0,912) memperlihatkan tidak ada perbedaan bermakna diantara keduanya (p=0,396). Demikian juga nilai APTT terhadap kelompok I (24,46+1,853) dan kelompok II (23,61+2,063), nilai (p=0.186). Outcome klinis berdasarkan BI pada kelompok I dan II memberikan efek yang sama dengan nilai p sebelum pemberian 0,685 dan setelah pemberian p=0,297. Berdasarkan kejadian efek samping pada kelompok I sebanyak 3 pasien (23,1%) dan kelompok II sebanyak 10 pasien (76,9%) mengalami nyeri ulu hati, dengan nilai p=0,006. Dari penelitian yang telah dilakukan disimpulkan bahwa, penggunaan terapi Clopidogrel 75 mg tablet tunggal lebih efektif dibandingkan dikombinasi dengan Aspilet 80 mg chewable
PENGARUH POSISI DAUN PADA TANAMAN SIRSAK (Annona muricata Linn.) DAN AKTIVITAS ANTIBAKTERI SECARA IN VITRO
Authors: Wirastuty Reski Yalatri , Lallo Subehan , Sartini Sartini
Published: June 2019

Daun Sirsak merupakan salah satu tanaman yang memiliki aktivitas sebagai antibakteri. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh letak posisi daun dan aktivitas antibakteri. Masing-masing bagian daun sirsak dimaserasi menggunakan etanol 70% menggunakan perbandingan 1:7 kemudian dilanjutkan pengujian antibakteri, analisis kualitatif menggunakan UFLC. Aktivitas antibakteri menggunakan metode Disc Diffusion Kirby-Bauer menggunakan medium MHA dengan waktu inkubasi selama 24 jam pada suhu 37°C terhadap bakteri Staphylococcus aureus dan Pseudomonas aeroginosa. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ekstrak pucuk sirsak yang paling baik aktivitas antibakteri  terdapat pada bagian pucuk yang memiliki daya hambat terhadap Staphylococcus aureus sebesar 12,73 mm dan Pseudomonas aeruginosa sebesar 11,83 mm.
TINJAUAN SISTEMATIS TENTANG TEKNIK DELPHI DAN KAITANNYA TERHADAP ISU KEFARMASIAN TERKINI
Authors: Saud Anshar
Published: June 2019

Delphi technique has been knowned in variety research of studies and countries for almost eight decades as one of reliable decision making method. Its success and relation in pharmacy field has been examined but not yet catalogue recently in a comprehensive manner. The objective of this study was to review existing literature studies on the topic of Delphi technique and its relation on current pharmaceutical issues to provide an analysis of its success and impact in pharmacy and health sector. A search of 6 electronic databases i.e: Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science and Proquest was conducted during November 2018. A scientific review of literature (2008-2018) was performed to identify and collate information from relevant, peer reviewed original study articles investigating Delphi technique employed in pharmaceutical issues. A thematic analysis was undertaken to categorize categories of pharmacy, pharmaceutical, pharmaceutical care and pharmacist. Thirty two original study articles were included in this review. All articles were based in the U.S., Europe, Australia and Asia. After reviewing all the articles, 5 themes with 13 categories were generated. These themes included essential role of pharmacist in healthcare, pharmacy professionalism, medication management protocol, pharmacy education, and drug policy. It concluded that overall, through this review it is evident that there are a number of themes on pharmacy issues that employed by Delphi techniques. This review indicated that although Delphi technique are successful and to be satisfactory applied in pharmacy field, the usage of technique in pharmacy issues need to be further enhanced.
Using Backpropagation to Predict Drought Factor in Keetch-Byram Drought Index
Authors: Et al. Hadisuwito
Published: June 2019

Forest fires continue to rise during the dry season and they are difficult to stop. In this case, high temperatures in the dry season can cause an increase in drought index that could potentially burn the forest every time. Thus, the government should conduct surveillance throughout the dry season. Continuous surveillance without the focus on a particular time becomes ineffective and inefficient because of preventive measures carried out without the knowledge of potential fire risk. Based on the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI), formulation of Drought Factor is used just for calculating the drought today based on current weather conditions, and yesterday's drought index. However, to find out the factors of drought a day after, the data is needed about the weather. Therefore, we need an algorithm that can predict the dryness factor. So, the most significant fire potential can be predicted during the dry season. Moreover, daily prediction of the dry season is needed each day to conduct the best action then a qualified preventive measure can be carried out. The method used in this study is the backpropagation algorithm which has functions for calculating, testing and training the drought factors. By using empirical data, some data are trained and then tested until it can be concluded that 100% of the data already well recognized. Furthermore, some other data tested without training, then the result is 60% of the data match. In general, this algorithm shows promising results and can be applied more to complete several variables supporters.
The Influence of Rewards on Games Flow, Challenge, and Its Effects Towards the Engagement of Malaysian Digital Traditional Games
Authors: Et al. ChePa
Published: June 2019

Games engagement has become one of the main concerns in game industry. Early study revealed that Malaysian digital traditional games are suffering with the same issue due to several factors. One of it is the lack of the game itself. Although many Malaysian traditional games have been digitized, none of them has incorporated rewards despite its importance in games engagement. Realizing the importance of rewards in games engagement, one of Malaysian traditional Congkak has been chosen to be enhanced by incorporating rewards. Experiments have been conducted among 50 gamers among the Millennials. Prior interview, game demo and human test are conducted. Experiments focused on the influence of rewards on games flow, games challenge, and its effects which covers both positive and negative effects through four hypotheses. Findings show that three hypotheses are supported by the experiments thus suggested that rewards have significant influence on the measured constructs. The findings can be useful to new psychologists to obtain more understanding pertaining to games engagement through some experiments of rewards in traditional games. Ideas of incorporating rewards in digital traditional games can useful and beneficial to game developers in attracting gamer and make them hooked to the games.
Balanced gene retention, transcription and methylation levels between subgenomes produced by soybean-specific paleo-tetraploidization
Authors: Wei Chendan , Qin Jun , Wang Zhenyi , Wang Li , Ge Weina , Lei Tianyu , Li Xinyu , Sun Pengchuan , Yuan Jiaqing , Meng Fanbo , Zhang Zhikang , Liu Chao , Guo He , Sun Sangrong , Jin Ling , Liu Ying , Hou Yue , Yu Jigao , Li Xiuqing , Wang Jinpeng , Zhang Mengchen , Wang Xiyin
Published: June 2019

BackgroundPolyploidization creates duplicated sets of genomes in a plant. Dominance by a subgenome is often observed in a polyploid species. Here, we studied the duplicated genomic regions in soybean, which was affected by a tetraploidization 13 million years ago.ResultsBy referring to eudicot relatives, we detailed that duplicated genes are retained in a balanced manner among homoeologs. Moreover, we found that duplicated genes in colinearity in extant genome are expressed at balance. Notably, the DNA methylation patterns of duplicated genes shared similar methylation levels among three different soybean lines (W931A, WR016, and ZAYOU1), suggesting that either the epigenetic information could be maintained transgenerationally for millions of years or homoeologs in this paleo-autopolyploid species have similar methylation patterns under similar environment.ConclusionsThese findings support the paleo-autotetraploidy of soybean. We proposed that, if taking maize as a model plant for studying paleo-allotetraploids, soybean is a model plant for studying paleo-autotetraploids.
Efficacy and Safety of Immunotherapy and Standard of Care in High-Grade Gliomas: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Shengnan , Xu Libo , Chen Guanyu , Wang Qian , Hu Xindan , Wen Naiyan , Liu Xiaomin , Peng Xinyu , Fan Lei , Guo Baofeng , Zhang Ling
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND: While immunotherapy combined with standard of care (SOC) is often used for high-grade glioma (HGG), there have been few comparisons between immunotherapy combined SOC treatment (IMCT) and SOC alone. For clinicians seeking to increase immunotherapies’ efficacy, it is important to understand what interventions exist and their relative effectiveness.
METHODS: The Cochrane Library, Embase, Medline, and the Web of Science Core Collection were systematically searched by two librarians. Retrieved hits were screened for inclusion. Subgroup analysis and Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to examine factors associated with overall survival (OS). Progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), and occurrence rate of adverse events (AE) were included as secondary endpoints to further assess the efficacy and safety of IMCT. GRADE profiler was applied to assess the quality of evidence. This study is registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42019112356
RESULTS: The search yielded 2315 results of which 13 met eligibility criteria. We identified 13 publications, 14 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and 5 historical-matched controlled trials(HMCTs). In a fixed effects model, Compared to SOC alone, IMCT improved OS (HR = 0.82; 95% CI 0.74-0.90; p < 0.0001), PFS (HR = 0.61; 95% CI 0.40-0.92; p = 0.019), ORR (RR = 2.13; 95% CI 2.56-2.92; p < 0.0001) bur increased the occurrence rate of AE (p < 0.0001).
CONCLUSIONS: It suggests that IMCT compared to SOC alone have considerable effectiveness. Our findings support the use of immunotherapy in brain tumor to improve HGG outcomes.
Ethical issues encountered by medical school students during the physical examination of female genitalia
Authors: Özcan Müesser , Yeniceri Emine Neşe , Küçük Mert
Published: June 2019

Background

The aim of the study was to identify the ethical issues encountered during the physical examination of the female genitalia, which can be deemed culturally intimate, by medical school students who have practiced genital examination so far on a limited number of models and find out the reasons of such issues.

Methods

The study was conducted with 120 voluntary medical school students in clinical years who completely filled out and delivered the forms.

Results

Students stated that while performing genital examinations on real patients during their clinical years, they faced various issues including the importance of taking patient's consent, disclosing their identity and proficiency, fearing to harm the patient due to lack of knowledge and skills, failing to perform genital examination, and having emotional problems. The rate of encountering such problems differed depending on students' gender and grade.

Conclusions

In clinical education, while they are equipped with self-confidence and proficiency, students should also be integrated in an environment where patient's comfort, ethical principles and values are preserved. This subject should be examined when ethical dilemmas constrain learning. In order to avoid ethical concerns during this process and ensure that the process can be managed positively by both parties, medical schools should put forth official policies and guidelines concerning the practice of genital examination in particular which is considered intimate by patients and share such policies and rules with both parties.
Evaluation of a new Rapid Antimicrobial Susceptibility system for Gram-negative and Gram-positive bloodstream infections: Speed and accuracy of Alfred 60 AST
Authors: Anton-Vazquez Vanesa , Samuel Adjepong , Cristina Suarez , Timothy Planche
Published: June 2019

Background

Blood stream infections (BSIs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. The time from taking blood cultures to obtain results of antibiotic sensitivity can be up to five days which impacts patient care. The Alfred 60 AST™ can reduce laboratory time from positive culture bottle to susceptibility results from 16-25 hours to 5-6 hours, transforming patient care.

Objective

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of a rapid antimicrobial susceptibility system, the Alfred 60 AST™, in clinical isolates from patients with BSIs and confirm time to results.

Methods

301 Gram-negative and 86 Gram-positive isolates were analysed directly from positive blood culture bottles following Gram staining. Antimicrobial susceptibility results and time-to-results obtained by rapid Alfred 60 AST system and BD Phoenix were compared .

Results

A total of 2,196 antimicrobial susceptibility test results (AST) were performed: 1,863 Gram-negative and 333 Gram-positive. AST categorical agreement (CA) for Alfred 60 AST™ was 95% (1772/1863) for Gram-negative and 89% (295/333) for Gram-positive isolates. Gram-negative CA: ampicillin 96% (290/301); ciprofloxacin 95% (283/297); ceftriaxone 96% (75/78); meropenem 97% (288/297); piperacillin-tazobactam 95% (280/295); gentamicin 94% (279/297) and amikacin 93% (277/298). The median time to susceptibility results from blood culture flagging positive was 6.3 h vs 20 h (p<0.01) for Alfred system vs BD Phoenix™.

Conclusion

Alfred 60 AST system greatly reduced time to antimicrobial susceptibility results in Gram-negative and Gram-positive BSIs with good performance and cost, particularly for Gram-negative bacteraemia.
Gamma Rays Mediated Mutagenesis of Super Koji (Aspergillus oryzae) to enhance the Thermostability and Production of CMCases: Process Scale-up at Pilot Level
Authors: Zeb Neelam , Rashid Muhammad Hamid , Aleem Bushra , Iftikhar Fariha , Saqib Anam , Ali Hazrat , Sher Hassan , Rehman Saif ur , Fatima Bilqees , Khan Waheed S
Published: June 2019

Background
The β-1, 4-endoglucanase belongs to cellulases group of enzymes, which hydrolyse β-1, 4 glucosidic bonds in the naturally occurring cellulose or synthetic Carboxymethyl cellulose CMC thus also named as CMCase. Endoglucanase from Aspergillus oryzae is favoured in food and feed industries due to its GRAS (generally regarded as safe) status and for relatively stable enzymes production.
Results
Current report is novel as it deals with the development of super Koji strain having hyper production of thermostable CMCases. Hence, the potent Koji’s mutant, hyper producer of thermostable endoglucanase was screened from the available mutants stock (Total = 52 variants), which was generated through gamma rays treatment of Super Koji strain (A. oryzae cmc1). Initially, seventeen (17) mutants hyper producer of CMCases were selected based on the basis of clearance zone index (CI) on the plates supplemented with 1% CMC. Afterwards, six mutants resistant to 2-deoxy-D-glucose were selected having enhanced CMCase production. Mutants’ next screening was on submerged CMCase production. Potent mutant 60(5) having 60 kRad γ-rays exposure showed 3.6 folds hyper CMCase production (6.02 U ml-1). The half-life of endoglucanse produce of A. oryzae mutant 60(5) was 29.42 min and 14.8 min at 55 ⁰C and 60 ⁰C, respectively, which was 4 folds higher than the control at 60 ⁰C. The LC-MS analysis showed that A. oryzae mutant 60(5) does not produce aflatoxins. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESM) of mutated Koji depicted that gamma radiations enhanced the stiffness of fungal mycelia. Kinetics of CMCase production by mutant 60(5) in 10 L and 200L fermenter was as: CMCase = 913 U dl-1 & 821 U dl-1; Specific growth (µ) = 0.064 & 0.082 hours; Cell mass doubling time (td) = 10.71 & 8.42 hours; Yield coefficient with respect to cell mass (Yp/x) = 59 Ug-1 & 89 U g-1 and Specific rate of CMCase production (qp) = 3.84 Ug-1h-1 & 7.37 Ug-1h-1 respectively.
Conclusion
We concluded, γ-rays induced potent mutations in mutant 60(5) resulting in hyper production of thermostable endoglucanase, which can withstand harsh industrial conditions. Hence, has great potential for applications in food & feed and other industrial processes.
Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of children with community-acquired mycoplasma pneumonia in Nanjing
Authors: Xu Changdi , Ma Xiao , Zhang Fengxia , Bi Ying , Rong Qiangquan , Quan Yao , Zhu Yifan , Zhao Deyu
Published: June 2019

Background
Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a ubiquitous pathogen, causing various manifestations of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). This study aimed to update the epidemiology and clinical manifestations of community-acquired mycoplasma pneumonia (CAMP) in hospitalized children in Nanjing and to investigate the association of age, sex, and season of onset with the prognosis of CAMP.
Methods
The clinical data of children <18 years old, hospitalized for CAP in 2016, were collected and reviewed. Blood and nasopharyngeal aspirates were obtained for pathogen detection, including cultivation, immunofluorescence, and polymerase chain reaction and acid tests. Demographic, clinical, radiographic, and laboratory data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 software.
Results
Of 3377 eligible children with radiographic confirmation of pneumonia, 1249 (36.99%) had M. pneumoniae infection. Although most children (614, 49.16%) with M. pneumoniae infection were ≤3 years old, CAMP occurred mostly in those aged 5-10 years (70.23%). The peak incidence was recorded between July and September (49.05%). Children aged 5-10 years had significantly longer hospitalization and more frequent atelectasis. No significant difference in CAMP was found between the sexes.
Conclusions
M. pneumoniae remains one of the leading pathogens in pediatric CAP .Particular care is necessary for children older than 5 years and during the peak periods of disease.
Genome sequence of the model rice variety KitaakeX
Authors: Jain Rashmi , Jenkins Jerry , Shu Shengqiang , Chern Mawsheng , Martin Joel A. , Copetti Dario , Duong Phat Q. , Pham Nikki T. , Kudrna David A. , Talag Jayson , Schackwitz Wendy S. , Lipzen Anna M. , Dilworth David , Bauer Diane , Grimwood Jane , Nelson Catherine R. , Xing Feng , Xie Weibo , Barry Kerrie W. , Wing Rod A. , Schmutz Jeremy , Li Guotian , Ronald Pamela C.
Published: June 2019

Background:
The availability of thousands of complete rice genome sequences from diverse varieties and accessions has laid the foundation for in-depth exploration of the rice genome. One drawback to these collections is that most of these rice varieties have long life cycles, and/or low transformation efficiencies, which limits their usefulness as model organisms for functional genomics studies. In contrast, the rice variety Kitaake has a rapid life cycle (9 weeks seed to seed) and is easy to propagate. For these reasons, Kitaake has emerged as a model for studies of diverse monocotyledonous species.
Results:
Here, we report the de novo genome sequencing and analysis of Oryza sativa ssp. japonica variety KitaakeX, a Kitaake plant carrying the rice XA21 immune receptor. Our KitaakeX sequence assembly contains 377.6 Mb, consisting of 33 scaffolds (476 contigs) with a contig N50 of 1.4 Mb. Complementing the assembly are detailed gene annotations of 35,594 protein coding genes. We identified 331,335 genomic variations between KitaakeX and Nipponbare (ssp. japonica), and 2,785,991 variations between KitaakeX and Zhenshan97 (ssp. indica). We also compared Kitaake resequencing reads to the KitaakeX assembly and identified 219 small variations. The high-quality genome of the model rice plant KitaakeX will accelerate rice functional genomics.
Conclusions:
The high quality, de novo assembly of the KitaakeX genome will serve as a useful reference genome for rice and will accelerate functional genomics studies of rice and other species.
Treatment outcomes of Acute Appendicitis and associated factors among admitted patients with a diagnosis of Acute Abdomen in Debre Markos referral hospital, Amhara region, North West Ethiopia
Authors: Afenigus Abebe Dilie , Bayieh Agumas Mossie , Kassahun Berhanu
Published: June 2019

Introduction-

Acute abdomen is a sudden onset abdominal disease condition which often requires an immediate surgical intervention. Appendicitis is an inflammation of the vermiform appendix and is one of the most common causes of an acute abdomen in young adults. Appendicitis can cause severe periumbilical pain that radiates to the right lower quadrant, nausea, vomiting and anorexia. If left untreated, it can also cause appendiceal abscess, perforation and peritonitis.

Objective

- To assess treatment outcomes of Acute Appendicitis and associated factors among admitted patients with a diagnosis of acute abdomen in Debre Markos referral hospital from September 11/2018 to March 9/2019.

Methods and materials

- Institutional based cross sectional study was employed among 169 patients using a census sampling method. Data were collected from patient medical records, registration books and anesthesia charts available in the hospital by using checklist. Data was entered using Epi-data version 4.2 and analyzed by SPSS version 25 software. Logistic regression analysis was employed to describe the relationship between outcome and predictor variables.

Results -

Among 303 patients with a diagnosis acute abdomen, 169(55.7%) were developed acute appendicitis, of whom, 107(63.7%) were males and 62 (36.7%) were females. Among 169 patients who underwent appendectomy for treatment of acute appendicitis, 45(26.6%) of them were developed unfavorable treatment outcomes. The odds of unfavorable treatment outcomes for acute appendicitis was higher among patients who had elevated WBC count at the time of presentation [AOR=4.7; 95% CI (1.95, 11.35)] as compared with their counterparts. Similarly, those patients who had an intraoperative appendiceal abscess were more likely to have unfavorable treatment outcome for acute appendicitis [AOR= 3.8; 95% CI (1.61, 9.07)] as compared to those who didn’t have appendiceal abscess.

Conclusion and recommendation-

Nearly one-fourth of patients who underwent appendectomy for appendicitis treatment were developed unfavorable treatment outcomes. Elevated WBC count at the time of presentation and presence of intraoperative appendiceal abscess were the factors associated with unfavorable treatment outcome of acute appendicitis. Therefore, immediately evaluate patients having similar features with laboratory investigations is crucial.
Tumor hypoxia impairs NK cell cytotoxicity through SHP-1-mediated attenuation of STAT3 and ERK signaling pathways
Authors: Wang Yanmeng , Teng Rui , Lv Nan , Williamson Ramone A. , Lei Lei , Fan Rong , Chen Ping , Lei Li , Zhang Yuchen , Wang Baiyan , Peng Yue , Fu Jiaqi , Liu Xuna , He Aili , O’Dwyer Michael , Hu Jinsong
Published: June 2019

Natural killer (NK) cells are innate immune effectors with potent anti-tumor activity. Nonetheless, tumor cells have the ability to create an immunosuppressive microenvironment, thereby escaping from immune surveillance. Although accumulating evidence indicates that microenvironmental hypoxia plays an important role in favoring tumor development and immune evasion, it is still unclear how hypoxia directly impairs NK cell anti-tumor activity. In this study, we confirmed that hypoxic NK cells show significantly lower cytotoxicity against tumor cells. Consistent with this, we also found that the reduction in NK cell cytotoxicity resulting from hypoxia is related to the lower expression of granzyme B, IFN-γ, degranulation marker CD107a, as well as killer activation receptors including NKp30, NKp46, and NKG2D on NK cells. More importantly, we further demonstrated that a reduction in the phosphorylation levels of ERK and STAT3 secondary to hypoxia are tightly associated with the attenuated NK cell cytotoxicity. Focusing on the mechanism responsible for reducing phosphorylation levels of ERK and STAT3, we revealed that the activation of protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 (src homology region 2 domain-containing phosphatase-1) following hypoxia may play an essential role in this process. When knocking down SHP-1 or blocking its activity using a specific inhibitor TPI-1, we were able to partially restore NK cell cytotoxicity under hypoxia. Taken together, we demonstrated that hypoxia can impair NK cell cytotoxicity by decreasing the phosphorylation levels of ERK and STAT3 in a SHP-1 dependent manner. Therefore, targeting SHP-1 could provide an approach to enhance NK cell-based tumor immunotherapy.
Nomen Est Omen: Heritage – Baština or Nasleđe – A (Not Merely) Terminological Dilemma
Authors: Gavrilović Ljiljana
Published: June 2019

This paper looks at the use of the Serbian terms "kulturna baština" and "kulturno nasleđe" (both of which are translated as "cultural heritage") to refer to elements of culture preserved from the past and considered valuable enough to be preserved as part of the musealization of reality in its various forms. It offers an analysis of how, through the (re)introduction of the old/new term baština, patriarchy and essentialism – two elements of non-material cultural heritage that are ostensibly undesirable and not to be retained since they are contrary to international law – are being reinstated in the sphere of culture by bureaucratic means.
Corporate social responsibility policies and value creation: does corporate governance and profitability mediate that relationship?
Authors: Tarigan Josua , Elsye Hatane Saarce , Stacia Linneke , Christine Widjaja Deborah
Published: June 2019

With a purpose to give a deep understanding relating to the manifestation of social responsibilities practices among Indonesian companies, this paper reflects the relationship of corporate social responsibility (CSR), corporate profitability (CP), value creation (VC) and good corporate governance (GCG). Kinder, Lydenberg, and Domini’s (KLD) measurement approach is used in this study to measure the social responsibility practices, as this gives cross-border analysis of social responsibility. Corporate profitability captures return on assets, which is accounting-based measurement, whereas value creation explains the economic value added, which is shareholder-based measurement. Structural Equation Model (SEM) analysis is conducted for Indonesian listed companies, which appeared in Corporate Governance Perception Index (CGPI). The empirical result suggests that CSR serves as a tool in assisting shareholders value and performance. Accordingly, firms should incorporate CSR practices to enhance its strategic investment and sustain a strong relationship with its stakeholders. Subsequently, management should also take concern of having good corporate governance in order to improve company’s performance by supervising and monitoring of the company’s operation, ensure the fulfillment to the stakeholder’s interest. This paper presents fresh insights into applications of corporate social responsibility principles and corporate governance in Indonesian context that has not received systematic attention and consideration in the literature.
The Key Factors of Economic Integration in Southeast Asia: Case of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand
Authors: Verico Kiki
Published: June 2019

Shifting from intra-regional trade to that of investment is the major aim of the economic integration of Southeast Asia. This article attempts to analyse the two essential factors of it, one is intra-regional trade and two is economic community. For the first analysis it selects Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand as the observed countries and for the second analysis it takes Indonesia as the field study. Firstly, this article finds that free trade agreement is effective to increases intra-regional trade but ineffective to attract investment therefore Southeast Asia needs to amplify its open-regionalism principle. Secondly, it finds that private sector is ready towards the economic community therefore the ASEAN Economic Community is fit for the recent Southeast Asia’s integration.
The (In)visibility of Taiwan – Indonesia Relations: Indonesian Students on the Sideline
Authors: Elias Rangga Aditya
Published: June 2019

Indonesian students have been playing significant roles as the agent of change in the process of Indonesia’s nation building. In the era of Indonesia’s struggle for independent, students had become the backbone of many important movements. Students were also the driving force of Indonesia democratization movement in 1998. Thus, it can be inferred that students are the important agent in shaping the direction of Indonesia.On the other hand, discord between China and Taiwan regarding Taiwan status has been making Taiwan – Indonesia relations growth more significant in informal than formal channel. One of the efforts to increase the informal channel is undertaken by establishing academic exchanges, scholarships, and scholar exchanges. However this effort is seemingly still on creating cooperation with academic institution to increase the number of Indonesian students in Taiwan per se but it arguably could upgrade both entities relations only if the operationalization of academic policy is parallel with their  attempt to  increase  the relation.  Currently,  there are  approximately  3,052 Indonesian students enroll in many universities in Taiwan. Yet, there is no such effort applying by Taiwan government to take advantages from this situation in order to increase Indonesia-Taiwan further relations. This paper, therefore, is aimed to deliver two arguments. First, Taiwan academic relations with Indonesia are still focusing on the effort to increase the number of Indonesian students in Taiwan and neglect their potential as agent of cooperation. This condition has made the students as agent become invisible. Second, Taiwan’s policy in academic cooperation with Indonesia is not in line with Taiwan’s effort to upgrade  its relation  with  Indonesia. As  an  impact, Taiwan  –  Indonesia relation remains stagnant and invisible. In addition this paper will also deliver a clear description of the Indonesian students’ characteristic in Taiwan and the potential factors that  are  embedded on  them.  In order  to  get its  finding  and support  the secondary data, this paper also will conduct observations and interviews to the Indonesian students in Taiwan.
Biohydrogen production from soft drink industry wastewater in an anaerobic fluidized bed reactor
Authors: Menezes V. S. , Amorim N. C. S. , Macêdo W. V. , Amorim E. L. C.
Published: June 2019

The wastewater from carbonated soft drinks production was used as substrate in an anaerobic fluidized bed reactor (AFBR) to evaluate the production of biohydrogen as a renewable energy. The hydraulic retention time (HRT) ranged from 8 to 0.5 hours (7.92 to 137.09 kg COD m−3 day−1) throughout the experiment and expanded clay was used as support material for biomass adhesion. The average composition of hydrogen in the biogas under the conditions of this experiment was 34%. The maximum hydrogen yield (HY) and the maximum hydrogen production rate (HPR) was 5.87 mol H2/mol substrate and 2.74 L H2 h−1 L−1, respectively, obtained in the HRT of 0.5 hour. Acetic acid was the predominant soluble metabolite detected (88%). Propionic, butyric and caproic acids were quantified with low production (7%, 4% and 1% of soluble metabolites production (SMP)). The anaerobic fluidized bed reactor optimized the average of hydrogen yield by 17% in relation to packed-bed reactors, in a HRT of 0.5 h. The natural fermentation process and operating conditions were favorable to the inhibition of hydrogen-consuming organisms, such as methanogenic archaeas.
Higher education quality policies in Germany and United Kingdom:
Authors: Pereira Cleber Augusto , Araújo Joaquim Filipe Ferraz Esteves de , Machado-Taylor Maria de Lourdes
Published: June 2019

The objective of this study is to discuss the accreditation systems in Higher Education (HE) currently in Europe. The specific goals include describing the context of HE in Germany and the UK, identifying the main policies implemented. The studies are systematically mapped and contextualized and they will analyse quality assurance and evaluation. This research describes the assessment of the social phenomenon and the accreditation of HE based on the performance of European rating agencies. This paper will also present the main points of action of the quality policy and the quality of HE agencies and their development. It was created a concept mapping of HE in these countries and it was also discussed the characteristics, restrictions and evolution of the processes of accreditation, evaluation and peer review. The main points of action of quality policies and quality agencies in HE, and their current situation of development were demonstrated.
Coffee, Caffeine and Cognition: a Benefit or Disadvantage?
Authors: Patocka Jiri , Navratilova Zdenka , Krejcar Ondrej , Kuca Kamil
Published: June 2019

Coffee, one of the world’s most consumed products, is extracted from the roasted seeds of Coffea sp., a plant native to Africa. The effects of coffee on the human body have been recognized for centuries and have now become the subject of systematic research. Caffeine’s impact on a person’s cognitive ability was reviewed through a large set of literature related to the subject. Learning and memory tasks are not typically influenced by caffeine when it comes to performance. However, in some cases, it has been used to produce inhibitory or facilitatory effects on learning and/or memory. Caffeine facilitates performance in tasks involving the working memory, but it has been seen that tasks that rely on working memory may be hindered because of it. Moreover, caffeine can augment the performance of memory during times where a person’s alertness is suboptimal at best. However, a large body of research points to an improvement in reaction time. Consuming it has little to no impact on long-term memory. Caffeine can be taken as a mild stimulant, proven by its effect on performance in the context of subjects who are tired or fatigued. In some cases, it has been observed that caffeine prevents cognitive decline, specifically when it comes to healthy subjects; however, these results are heterogeneous at best. While drinking coffee positively influences both physical and mental capacity, caffeine cannot and should not be viewed as an “absolute” enhancer of cognitive function. Existing literature shows that the impact it causes on an individual is complex, and can alter, for example, anxiety, performance and arousal.
Manual Acute PD with Rigid Catheters: A Relook
Authors: Prabhu Mayoor V , S.V Subhramanyam , Antony Sinoj , K.S Nayak
Published: June 2019

Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) has been an underutilized modality in the treatment of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). Concerns regarding clearance, fluid removal, infection, complications of therapy, and the hypercatabolic state of AKI has led to PD falling into disrepute. Recent studies have challenged this notion of ineffectiveness. The lower cost, and simplicity of the procedure makes it a particularly attractive option for the developing world which may lack even basic HD facilities, and patients continue to die for want of Renal Replacement Therapy (RRT). We present a review of the available literature about PD in the AKI setting with special reference to the developing world, including the procedure, costs, and effectiveness of the treatment. We also describe the procedure in detail to help ‘hand hold’ physicians interested in performing this lifesaving procedure.
Diagnosing Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome: A Review of the Criterion for Definite APS
Authors: Dlott Jeffrey S
Published: June 2019

Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome (APS) is a highly prevalent cause of antibody-mediated thrombosis manifesting in venous thrombosis (DVT and PE), arterial thrombosis (most commonly stroke), and pregnancy complications. The diagnosis of definite APS requires both clinical and laboratory criterion as established by the working group of the International Congress on Antiphospholipid Antibodies (based on expert opinion). Since thrombosis and pregnancy loss are common in the general population, and antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) occurs in a small percentage of the healthy public, it is important to demonstrate antibody persistence in patients who have the proper clinical indications in order to avoid misdiagnosis. Unfortunately, laboratory testing in this area lacks standardization, resulting in wide inter-laboratory variance. However, due to the commercialization of tests and automation, inter-laboratory variance has improved. Data on several new non-criterion tests suggest that they may improve the specificity or risk stratification for thrombosis. A new guidance document on aPL testing strives to achieve better consistency, but much work remains to be done in the area of standardization.
Analysis and Evaluation of Oil-water Relative Permeability Curves
Authors: Manping Yang , Wancheng Xi , Xiaojing Zhao , Yanhong Cheng
Published: June 2019

Oil-water relative permeability curves are the characteristic curves of evaluating the oil-water infiltrating fluid
and also are an important part of reservoir engineering studies. Through a large number of core flooding experiments,
based on the establishment of oil-water relative permeability calculation models, the use of the function of the relative
permeability curves divided these into the water phase concave, water phase convex and a water phase linear categories.
The relationship between different types of relative permeability curves with reservoir characteristics, moisture content,
common infiltration points, common permeation range and oil displacement efficiency have been evaluated. Analysis the
distribution of the reservoir usable remaining oil and reservoir irreducible oil of different types of relative permeability
curves.
Training Dietetic Interns to do Outcomes Research/Management using Community-based Participatory Research
Authors: Horacek Tanya M.
Published: June 2019

Abstract: Dietetic Interns (DIs) need effective supervised practice opportunities to apply the principles of program development, implementation, evaluation, and particularly, outcomes management. Outcomes management tracks data to improve practices, outcomes, effectiveness and efficiency. The Nutrition Care Process guides outcomes management in dietetics. Merging it with Community-based Participatory Research (CBPR) can insure more appropriate and sustainable outcomes and processes. Syracuse University’s dietetic internship provides a concentration in outcomes management. Through a three-credit graduate class, DIs learn CBPR, specifically the PRECEDE-PROCEED model. The model covers how to collaborate with their community, collect/analyze data, design an objective-driven outcomes management project, and to marshal available resources for meeting the identified health needs of the community. A preceptor and advisory panel collaborate with a team of DIs for each project. This paper describes the structure of the class used to teach DIs to do outcomes management using CBPR. DIs and graduate students completed a survey designed for this research, which assessed their perceptions of the effectiveness and their satisfaction with the class, rotation/experience, and the barriers, benefits and lessons learned using CBPR. Although participants found learning and implementing PRECEDE-PROCEED to be complicated, they rated the experience as effective for: 1) building appropriate entry-level dietetic competencies, 2) collaborating with the community and 3) designing effective and sustainable outcomes management projects. They were satisfied with their abilities, effort and outcomes. The benefits, challenges and proposed improvements for the experience and training are discussed.
Особенности морфологии и оптических свойств наноструктур дисульфида молибдена от мономолекулярного слоя до фрактолообразной субструктуры
Authors: Домашевская Э.П. , Голощапов Д.Л. , Хасан Исмаил Дамбос Аль Хайлани , Руднев Е.В. , Гречкина М.В. , Рябцев С.В.
Published: June 2019

Abstract. The aim of the work is to show the effect of layer thickness on the features of the morphology and optical properties of MoS2 nanostructures, including the monomolecular layers, formed during the gas transporting transfer of sulfur vapors to the reactor hot zone with a molybdenum metal and subsequent deposition on the mica (muscavite) substrates.
The results of the atomic force microscopy, optical absorption spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy of molybdenum disulfide nanostructures of different thickness, obtained in temperatures interval of gas transport synthesis 525-600°C, show that a monomolecular MoS2 layers, containing trigonal domains and having a width of the band gap 1.84 eV at a direct-gap optical transition with the formation of excitons at room temperature, can be obtained.
For the first time, fractal-like substructures were obtained, in the Raman spectra of which the values of the modes of intralayer and interlayer oscillations E12g 377.5 cm-1 and A1g 403.8 differ not only from the corresponding values of the modes of the monomolecular layer, but also from the known values of bulk samples. The frequency of the intralayer mode in these samples, E12g 377.5 cm-1, is the smallest of all known values.