bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ability of people with post-stroke hemiplegia to self-administer FES-assisted hand therapy video games at home: An exploratory case series
Authors: Fu Michael J , Harley Mary Y , Hisel Terri , Busch Robyn , Wilson Richard , Chae John , Knutson Jayme S
Published: July 2019

Introduction

This article describes the development and initial clinical testing of an innovative home-based treatment for upper extremity hemiplegia that integrates contralaterally controlled functional electrical stimulation with hand therapy video games.

Methods

We explored the ability of seven participants with moderate-to-severe hand impairment to self-administer 12 weeks of contralaterally controlled functional electrical stimulation video game therapy at home for 10 h/week and in-lab with a therapist for four h/week. Clinical suitability was assessed by device usage logs, qualitative surveys, and clinical motor and cognitive outcomes.

Results

Three participants completed the study with > 95% compliance and four did not. Factors linked to incompletion included development of trigger finger in the non-paretic hand, acceptance of a new full-time job, residence relocation, and persistence of drowsiness from anti-spasticity medication. Those who completed the treatment perceived qualitative benefits and experienced gains in motor and cognitive outcomes.

Conclusion

Individuals with moderate-to-severe chronic post-stroke upper extremity hemiplegia can self-administer contralaterally controlled functional electrical stimulation video game therapy for up to 90 min/day at home. We also identified social and physiological factors that may preclude its use for daily home treatment. Further studies are warranted and are in progress to estimate treatment effect and optimal dose of this intervention.
Cost-Effectiveness of Percutaneous Lymphatic Embolization for Management of Plastic Bronchitis
Authors: Benjamin Jamaal L. , Rychik Jack , Johnstone Jordan A. , Nadolski Gregory J. , Itkin Maxim
Published: July 2019

Background:

Plastic bronchitis is a dreaded complication of single ventricle physiology occurring following palliation via Fontan procedure. Medical management of plastic bronchitis often fails, requiring heart transplantation. Percutaneous lymphatic embolization is an emerging treatment for plastic bronchitis.

Methods:

To determine the cost-effectiveness of competing management strategies, a modified Markov model was constructed with patients transiting through treatments—medical management, lymphatic embolization, or heart transplantation from a hospital system perspective. Health state transitions were modeled using an institutional review board–approved retrospective review of the Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania’s plastic bronchitis cohort. Medication pricing data were obtained from the National Inpatient Sample. Differences in costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) over a five-year horizon for each group were determined. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was then calculated.

Results:

The mean cost of lymphatic embolization from procedure performance was US$340,941, US$385,841 for heart transplantation, and US$594,520 for medical management. The mean quality-adjusted survival of lymphatic embolization yielded an additional 0.66 QALYs ( P < .03) relative to heart transplantation and 1.3 ( P < .0001) relative to medical management. Orthotopic heart transplantation yielded an additional 0.66 QALYs ( P = .06) when comparing heart transplantation to medical management. Compared to medical management, lymphatic embolization generated an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of US$192,105. Similarly, compared to heart transplantation, lymphatic embolization yielded an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of US$68,030.

Conclusions:

Of the available plastic bronchitis treatments, with a willingness to pay of US$150,000, lymphatic embolization produces an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio within the bounds considered to be cost-effective, potentially causing financial benefits to the health system.
Impact of FDA-Required Cardiovascular Outcome Trials on Type 2 Diabetes Clinical Study Initiation From 2008 to 2017
Authors: Kieffer Cameron M. , Robertson Andrew S.
Published: July 2019

Background:

Since 2008, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has required that drug manufacturers conduct postmarket cardiovascular outcomes trials (CVOTs) for approved type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) drugs. The utility and impact of these studies in determining atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk was reviewed during an FDA Advisory Committee Meeting held on October 24, 2018. Drug manufacturers and patient advocates at this meeting contended that the FDA-required CVOT studies discouraged private sector investment into developing novel T2DM drugs. Here, we explore these contentions by reviewing private sector investment in T2DM drug development from 2000 through 2008, followed by a deductive analysis of how associated events—including the implementation of the CVOT requirement—may have precipitated any observed changes.

Methods:

We collected and analyzed industry-sponsored interventional trials for T2DM initiated between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2017, and compared observed trends with those seen across all trials, specific diseases, and against patent filings of novel antidiabetic agents.

Results:

The analysis shows a marked decline in initiated T2DM clinical trials from 2008 through 2017. Possible influencing factors, including the 2008 financial crisis and a slow in the discovery of novel antidiabetic agents may have contributed, but could not fully account for this decline in T2DM studies.

Conclusions:

These observations are consistent with the statements made by industry representatives and patient advocates at the 2018 Advisory Committee meeting. As the FDA reconsiders postmarket requirements for T2DM products, these observations underscore the importance of considering more efficient postmarket study structures to assess cardiovascular safety beyond mandatory CVOTs.
Use of Zipper Ratcheting Straps as a Bailout for Postoperative Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks: Our Experience
Authors: Kulkarni Arvind G. , Tapashetti Sandeep , Patel Priyank M.
Published: July 2019

Study Design:

Technical note.

Objectives:

Management of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks is a challenge. Reexploration increases the morbidity risks. The main objective was to evaluate the outcomes of noninvasive zipper-like system (Zip surgical skin closure system, ZipLine Medical, Inc, Campbell, CA, USA) as a bailout technique for postoperative CSF leaks.

Methods:

Retrospective case series. Consecutive patients with postoperative CSF leaks that occurred secondary to spinal surgeries performed between January 2017 and September 2018 were part of the study. All these patients were managed conservatively by reinforcement with zipper ratcheting straps over the sutured surgical wound. Successful clinical outcomes included cessation of CSF leaks and adequate wound healing in the postoperative period and at follow-up.

Results:

Ten patients underwent the application of zipper ratcheting straps. The mean follow-up was 6 months (range 6 months to 1 year). In 7 cases, the dural tears were recognized postoperatively and in 3 cases, the tears were noted intraoperatively and repaired and reinforced with fibrin sealants. None of the patients developed wound soakage or subsequent CSF leak from the wound after the application of zipper ratcheting straps.

Conclusions:

Zipper ratcheting straps as augmentation to sewing of the wound seem to be a good alternative and bailout in treating patients with postoperative CSF leaks. The ease of its application, the ability in minimizing the complications associated with CSF leaks, and negating the need of surgical reexploration makes it a worthy option.
User-Informed Medical Device Development: A Case Study for Pediatric Malnutrition Assessment
Authors: Thaete Kristi , Rowzer Kasey , Stephens Karen , Abdel-Rahman Susan M.
Published: July 2019

Background. Mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) has been extensively used to classify pediatric malnutrition. Recently, MUAC z score was recommended; however, the logistics of implementation were not addressed. This study examines the usability of a device that provides MUAC and corresponding z score range in a single device. Methods. This was a single-center study of nutrition services providers. The device was applied to children aged 2 months to 18 years admitted as inpatients or seen as outpatients. Surveys incorporated benchmarking questions, assessed the ease with which respondents could perform 6 critical tasks, and provided an open-ended question to elicit feedback. Users were surveyed monthly until saturation was reached. Survey data were analyzed in aggregate and cross-tabulated by the respondents’ experience with the device. Thematic analysis of the open-ended responses followed a structured approach. Results. Sixty device users responded to the survey 280 times. Respondents were female (100%) with a mean age of 45.2 ± 13.2 years and 9.6 ± 8.0 years in practice. Increasing device use was accompanied by significantly shortened measuring times ( P < .001) and shifts in ease of performance for 5 of 6 critical tasks ( P < .05). Open-ended response themes related largely to design and materials. These were used to iteratively refine the device. Conclusions. The active engagement of end users in the real-world testing of our nutritional assessment device allowed us to refine the innovation with special attention paid to the needs of dietitians. The result is a device the majority of dietitians found easy to use, efficient, convenient, and preferable to alternative measurement options.
The effect of comorbid personality disorder on depression outcome after short-term psychotherapy in a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Koppers David , Kool Marit , Van Henricus , Driessen Ellen , Peen Jaap , Dekker Jack
Published: July 2019

Background

Time-limited psychotherapy for depression is effective. However, comorbid personality disorders affect therapy outcomes negatively. Studies of follow-up effects and results relating to the influence of comorbid personality disorder and treatment modality are scarce.

Aims

To determine the influence of comorbid personality disorder and treatment modality on outcomes after cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) or short-term psychodynamic supportive psychotherapy (SPSP) for depression.

Method

This study draws on data from a previously published randomised clinical trial contrasting SPSP and CBT for depression (both 16 sessions). We compared the effectiveness of these psychotherapies for patients with and without personality disorder (n = 196). The primary measure was depression outcome; the secondary measurements were interpersonal functioning and quality of life. Collected data were analysed using multilevel analysis. Trial registration: ISRCTN31263312 (http://www.controlled-trials.com).

Results

Although participants with and without comorbid personality disorder improved at treatment termination (d = 1.04, 95% CI 0.77–1.31 and d = 1.36, 95% CI 0.97–1.76, respectively) and at follow-up (d = 1.15, 95% CI 0.87–1.43 and d = 2.12, 95% CI 1.65–2.59 respectively), personality disorder had a negative effect on depression outcome at both measurement points (P < 0.05). A similar negative effect on interpersonal functioning was no longer apparent at follow-up. Comorbid personality disorder had no influence on social functioning or quality of life outcomes, irrespective of treatment modality.

Conclusions

CBT and SPSP contribute to the improvement of depressive symptoms and interpersonal problems in depressed patients with and without comorbid personality disorder. Both treatments are an effective first step in a stepped care approach, but – given remaining levels of depression in patients with personality disorder – they are probably inadequate for large numbers of patients with this comorbidity.

Declaration of interest

None.
Prevalence and Distribution of Human Papillomavirus Genotypes Among Women in Kinshasa, The Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Mutombo Alex B. , Benoy Ina , Tozin Rahma , Bogers Johannes , Van geertruyden Jean-Pierre , Jacquemyn Yves
Published: July 2019

PURPOSE

Cervical cancer is the leading cause of mortality by cancer in sub-Saharan Africa. The human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is recognized as a necessary and sufficient cause for cervical cancer. Population-specific estimates of HPV prevalence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are unknown. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of HPV and identify predominant genotypes circulating in Kinshasa, DRC.

METHODS

Between July 2015 and July 2017, women were invited to attend a screening program at Mont-Amba Health Centre in Kinshasa. Cervical specimens were collected using the Preservcyt medium. HPV DNA testing was performed for all specimens using real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

During the 2-year period, a total of 1,870 women age 25 to 82 years were screened. The mean age was 46 years (± 11.4 years). The overall HPV prevalence was 28.2% (95% CI, 26.1% to 30.3%). High-risk HPV prevalence was 24.8% (95% CI, 22.8% to 26.8%). Women younger than 30 years had the highest overall HPV prevalence (42.2%; 95% CI, 34.7% to 49.9%). A second peak of prevalence was observed in women age 60 years and older. HPV68 (5.5%; 95% CI, 4.5% to 6.6%) was the most prevalent HPV type.

CONCLUSION

The distribution of HPV genotypes among women in our population was different compared with other world regions. A key finding was that HPV68 was the most prevalent high-risk HPV genotype. These findings highlight the need for the determination in our population of the etiologic fraction of different HPV types in invasive cervical cancers.
“You Have to Keep a Roof Over Your Head”: A Qualitative Study of Housing Needs Among Patients With Cancer in New York City
Authors: Phillips Serena , Raskin Sarah E. , Harrington Cherise B. , Brazinskaite Ruta , Gany Francesca M.
Published: July 2019

PURPOSE:

Housing status can become compromised in the wake of financial hardship for some patients with cancer and become a source of disparity. This qualitative study describes the types of housing issues experienced by patients with cancer and survivors of cancer in New York City.

METHODS:

Semistructured interviews were conducted with a volunteer sample of 21 patients with cancer or survivors of cancer treated in New York City who reported housing needs in the period after diagnosis through survivorship. Nine supplemental interviews were conducted with cancer and housing key informants. Conventional content analysis was conducted on transcripts to create a codebook describing types of housing needs.

RESULTS:

Patients and survivors most commonly had breast (n = 9) and blood (n = 4) cancers and ranged from recently diagnosed to many years posttreatment. Twenty-nine distinct housing-related issues were identified, which were grouped into the following six major categories: housing costs (eg, rent, mortgage), home loss, doubled up or unstable housing, housing conditions, accessibility (eg, stairs, proximity to amenities), and safety. Issues were often interrelated. Housing needs sometimes predated cancer diagnosis. Other issues newly emerged in the wake of cancer-related physical limitations and disruption to finances. Needs ranged in severity and caused patients and survivors considerable burden during a difficult period of poor health and financial strain.

CONCLUSION:

This study contributes depth to current understandings of housing needs among patients with cancer and survivors by providing detailed disaggregated descriptions. We recommend increasing availability of services responsive to these needs and exploring promising options such as patient navigation and legal services. Findings also highlight the importance of creative solutions addressing ecologic-level factors such as housing affordability.
Presidential Address: A Rainbow of Spanish Illusions: Research Frontiers in Colonial Guatemala
Authors: Lovell W. George
Published: July 2019

Compared still to what we know about Mexico and Peru, the historiography of colonial Guatemala, despite notable advances, continues to lag behind, registering minimally in the Latin American scholarly imagination. The field is surveyed by examining some of the issues that have intrigued the author over the course of his career. Personal reflections are offered of research activities that engage indigenous resistance to Spanish intrusion, demographic collapse in the wake of conquest, the link between disease outbreaks and Maya demise, and the role played by Pedro de Alvarado (1485–1541) in attaining imperial objectives. Scrutiny of the Lienzo de Quauhquechollan, a sixteenth-century source the contents of which have been incisively reappraised, affords fuller appreciation of strategic Indian involvement in the act of subjugation. Alvarado, a key protagonist in the conquest of Mexico, also harbored ambitions to muscle in on the conquest of Peru, a little-known episode that awaits further investigation. The conqueror’s own life, like Central America itself, may indeed have been a rainbow of Spanish illusions, pots of gold dreamed of, lost and found at native expense.
The Personal Politics of Action and Applied Anthropology
Authors: Cobb Daniel M.
Published: July 2019

Action anthropology came to the fore during the 1950s and 1960s, in part as a critical response to applied anthropology’s colonial and governmental entanglements, seeking to learn from communities by collaboratively pursuing solutions to practical problems. While critical assessments of theory, method, and efficacy abound, the everyday human bonds fostered through these approaches seldom receive mention. This essay focuses on the personal and intellectual relationships Robert K. Thomas and Murray L. Wax formed with Ponca activist Clyde Warrior via the Workshop on American Indian Affairs, Carnegie Corporation Cross-Cultural Education Project, and Kansas Indian Education Research Project during the 1960s. It illuminates some of the interior dimensions of these two expressions of public-facing engaged scholarship.1
How ‘smart’ is smart dentistry?
Authors: Kokol Peter , Blažun Vošner Helena , Završnik Jernej , Turčin Marko
Published: July 2019

Background:Latest advances in information and health technologies enabled dentistry to follow the paradigm shift occurring in medicine – the transition to so called smart medicine. Consequently, the aim of this paper is to assess how ‘smart’ is smart dentistry as of the end of 2018.

Methods:We analysed the state of the art in smart dentistry, performing bibliometric mapping on a corpus of smart dentistry papers found in the Scopus bibliographical database.

Results:The search resulted in a corpus of 3451 papers, revealing that smart dentistry research is following the progress in smart medicine; however, there are some gaps in some specific areas like gamification and use of holistic smart dentistry systems.

Conclusions:Smart dentistry is smart; however, it must become smarter.
Methods of conduct and reporting of living systematic reviews: a protocol for a living methodological survey
Authors: Khamis Assem M. , Kahale Lara A. , Pardo-Hernandez Hector , Schünemann Holger J. , Akl Elie A.
Published: July 2019

Background: The living systematic review (LSR) is an emerging approach for improved evidence synthesis that uses continual updating to include relevant new evidence as soon as it is published. The objectives of this study are to: 1) assess the methods of conduct and reporting of living systematic reviews using a living study approach; and 2) describe the life cycle of living systematic reviews, i.e., describe the changes over time to their methods and findings.

Methods: For objective 1, we will begin by conducting a cross-sectional survey and then update its findings every 6 months by including newly published LSRs. For objective 2, we will conduct a prospective longitudinal follow-up of the cohort of included LSRs. To identify LSRs, we will continually search the following electronic databases: Medline, EMBASE and the Cochrane library. We will also contact groups conducting LSRs to identify eligible studies that we might have missed. We will follow the standard systematic review methodology for study selection and data abstraction. For each LSR update, we will abstract information on the following: 1) general characteristics, 2) systematic review methodology, 3) living approach methodology, 4) results, and 5) editorial and publication processes. We will update the findings of both the surveys and the longitudinal follow-up of included LSRs every 6 months. In addition, we will identify articles addressing LSR methods to be included in an ‘LSR methods repository’.

Conclusion: The proposed living methodological survey will allow us to monitor how the methods of conduct, and reporting as well as the findings of LSRs change over time. Ultimately this should help with ensuring the quality and transparency of LSRs.
ПРОБЛЕМЫ ВНЕДРЕНИЯ КОНФЛИКТ-МЕНЕДЖМЕНТА В УПРАВЛЕНИЕ ТРУДОВЫМ КОЛЛЕКТИВОМ ОРГАНИЗАЦИИ
Authors: Kulikova Yana Alexandrovna , Berdikova Albina Nyazhibovna , Kuznetsov Igor Anatolyevich
Published: July 2019

В ходе организационно-экономических и технологических инновационных изменений хозяйственной среды руководителям (или руководящему составу) организации необходимо быть готовыми к воздействию этих изменений на персонал организации. Это обусловлено тем, что данные изменения, в свою очередь, могут вызвать неприятие, сопротивление и даже противодействия определенной части сотрудников. Решение данных проблем связано с поиском новых методов и инструментария, способных их нивелировать. Одним из таких инструментов выступает методика конфликт-менеджмента.Целью настоящего исследования выступает совершенствование технологии управления конфликтами в организации на основе выявленных причин их возникновения, а также изучение современной организационной среды для внедрения конфликт-менеджмента в систему управления трудовым коллективом.Метод или методология проведения работы. Для выявления специфики управления конфликтами и совершенствования методики внедрения системы конфликт-менеджмента, было проведено исследование природы трудовых конфликтов на коммерческом предприятии ООО «Ротор» города Тамбова, путем анкетирования сотрудников. Методы описательной статистики позволили сформировать полученные количественные данные по заявленной проблеме и представить их диаграммах и таблицах.Результаты. В данном исследовании подробно рассмотрена природа современных конфликтных ситуаций, а также предложена программа обучающих тренингов, которые помогают развивать конфликтологическую компетентность руководителей и формировать благоприятный социально-психологический климат в организации.Область применения результатов. Результаты данного исследования помогут руководителю (руководящему составу) организации совершенствовать свою систему нивелирования конфликтных ситуаций, возникающих в трудовых и межличностных отношениях, а так же определить возможные пути профилактики и предотвращения конфликтных ситуаций.
УЧАСТИЕ РЕСПУБЛИКИ КОРЕЯ В ОСВОЕНИИ АРКТИКИ: ПЕРСПЕКТИВЫ И ПРОТИВОРЕЧИЯ
Authors: Shadrin Aleksandr Ivanovich , Baek Young Jun , Han Jong-man
Published: July 2019

В настоящее время большое значение приобретают вопросы изучения Арктики. Вместе с тем не рассматриваются проблемы взаимодействия Российской Федерации и Республики Корея по освоению и развитию данного региона. В этой статье мы рассмотрим текущее состояние арктических исследований в России и Корее, а также предложим возможности взаимного сотрудничества. В предыдущих научных работах не было рассмотрения результатов исследований на тему взаимодействия и сотрудничества между Российской Федерацией и Республикой Корея в вопросах изучения и освоения Российской Арктики.Цель – разработка предложений по развитию Арктического региона исходя из имеющихся научного, образовательного и инновационного потенциала Республики Корея. Задачи: анализ научно-образовательного и инновационного потенциала Республики Корея и других стран по изучению освоения и комплексного развития Арктики; определение особенностей и разработка основных направлений взаимодействия Российской Федерации и Республики Корея по освоению и комплексному развитию Арктики, использование SWOT анализа.Метод или методология проведения работы: обзор литературы, сравнительное исследование, анализ данных. Также в исследовании использована группа теоретических научных методов, связанных с проведенным анализом, использование которого обеспечивает комплексное изучения освоения ресурсов и развитие арктического пространства.Результаты. Проведена оценка природных условий и ресурсов, транспортных и логистических особенностей Российской Арктики. Приведены новые научные данные, отличающиеся от предыдущих исследований и показаны преимущества Северо-Восточного прохода для судоходства по сравнению с другими морскими маршрутами, выявлено наличие в этом вопросе определенных плюсов и ограничений. Рассмотрены стратегические вопросы развития арктической зоны России и участие Республики Корея в изучении освоения Арктики и развития Северного морского пути. Научная новизна исследования состоит в изучении особенностей взаимодействия Российской Федерации и Республики Корея по изучению освоения и комплексного развития Арктики.Область применения результатов. Результаты рекомендуется использовать в работе органов управления Российской Федерации и Республики Корея.
Problems and Features of Pedagogical Personnel Training in the Field of Educational Robotics
Authors: Панкратова О. , Pankratova O. , Ледовская Н. , Ledovskaya N.
Published: July 2019

The article is devoted to the existing problems arising in the formation of teachers’ readiness for professional activities in the fi eld of educational robotics. The necessity of systemic training of pedagogical personnel meeting the demands of modern society and capable of teaching the young generation of the country at various educational levels, thereby increasing the level of engineering education, is established. The teacher of this direction should have knowledge from various scientifi c fi elds: computer science and information technology, physics, microelectronics and artifi cial intelligence. The article describes the experience of the Institute of Information Technologies and Telecommunications of the North-Caucasian Federal University in teaching children, schoolchildren and students of educational robotics, as well as the training of teachers and advanced training of existing teachers in this field. A promising area of research is the study of the organizational and methodological conditions for the formation of teacher competence and the development of teacher training technologies in the fi eld of educational robotics.
An Improved Branch-Cut-and-Price Algorithm for Parallel Machine Scheduling Problems
Authors: Oliveira Daniel , Pessoa Artur
Published: July 2019

This work presents an improved branch-cut-and-price algorithm for the identical parallel machine scheduling problem minimizing a generic function of the job completion times. A new family of cuts is proposed to strengthen the arc-time-indexed formulation, along with an efficient separation algorithm. Also, the projection of the arc-time-indexed into a time-indexed formulation is introduced to take advantage of the variable fixings performed in the larger variable space. The improved algorithm was capable of solving 146 out of 150 instances in the literature, with 12 being solved for the first time. Also, the running time for the 134 previously solved instances decreased by 95.7% on the average.
The Double-Edged Sword of Jurisdictional Entrenchment: Explaining Human Resources Professionals’ Failed Strategic Repositioning
Authors: Sandholtz Kurt , Chung Daisy , Waisberg Isaac
Published: July 2019

To protect themselves against deskilling and obsolescence, professionals must periodically revise their claims to authority and expertise. Although we understand these dynamics in the broader system of professions, we have a less complete understanding of how this process unfolds in specific organizational contexts. Yet given the ubiquity of embedded professionals, this context is where jurisdictional shifts increasingly take place. Drawing on a comparative ethnographic study of human resources (HR) professionals in two engineering firms, we introduce the concept of jurisdictional entrenchment to explain the challenges embedded professionals face when they attempt to redefine their jurisdiction. Jurisdictional entrenchment describes a condition in which embedded professionals have accumulated tasks, tactics, and expertise that enable them to make jurisdictional claims in an organization. We show how such entrenchment is a double-edged sword: instrumental to the ability of professionals to withstand challenges to their authority but detrimental when expertise and skills devalued by the professionals remain in high demand by clients, thus preventing the professionals’ shift to their aspirational jurisdiction. Overall, our study contributes to a better understanding of how embedded professionals renegotiate jurisdictional claims within the constraints of organizational employment.
Metal Nanodelivery Systems for Improved Efficacy of Herbal Drugs
Authors: Ambwani Sonu , Tandon Roopali , Ambwani Tanuj Kumar
Published: July 2019

Herbal drugs have been used since ancient times in various parts of the world. These have wide acceptability due to their time-tested therapeutic values and minimal side effects in contrast to modern allopathic medicines. Mostly, the herbal drugs are either in dried powder form or in crude extract form prepared in different solvent systems. These preparations generally need large dose administration and also could be less effective in the form of conventional formulations. Moreover, these herbal formulations cannot be targeted to specific tissue in case of different chronic diseases. Oral consumed herbal formulations display reduced bioavailability as these are subjected to adverse pH, enzymatic degradation and ultimately poor gut absorption. Constraints associated with conventional phytopharmaceuticals have been improved by designing and using “Nano Delivery Systems” (NDS). The foremost aim of NDS is to provide sustained drug release, site-specific action, and improved patient’s compliance. Nanometal based herbal drugs can be used for targeted drug delivery in the body which improves their safety, effectiveness and reduces need of frequent large doses. Metal Nanocarriers loaded with herbal drugs can carry the optimal amount of the drug to their site of action avoiding different obstructions such as low pH in the stomach, metabolism by liver so that the drug can circulate into the blood for a longer period of time. Herbal drugs with NDS thus would be helpful in enhancing their efficacy.
ChiC Gene Enhances Fungal Resistance in Indigenous Potato Variety (Diamant) Via Agrobacterium-Mediated Transformation
Authors: Sabir Muhammad , Anwar Yasir , Khan Akram , Ali Muhammad , Yousuf Peerzada Yasir , Al-Ghamdi Khalid , Hakeem Khalid Rehman
Published: July 2019

Potato (Solanum tuberosum), one of the indispensable food crops, is susceptible to various fungal phyto-pathogenic infections that result in considerable production losses both in terms of quality and quantity. Developing fungal-resistant cultivars by introducing pathogen-resistant genes through transgenic approach has been a powerful tool to provide defense against the fungal pathogens. The current study was undertaken to develop a fungal resistant trait in a local potato variety. To achieve this goal, a local Pakistani Potato variety (Diamant), was transformed with chitinase ChiC gene utilizing plasmid pEKB/ChiC using Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain EHA101. The infected explants were grown on MS medium supplemented with 2 mg/l BAP and 0.2 mg/l NAA. Explants were then sub-cultured on MS medium supplemented with 2mg/l BAP and 2mg/l GA3 for shooting. PCR examination confirmed the integration of ChiC gene in the potato genomic DNA. The transformed potato variety could also be used as fungus-resistant breeding material and offers new opportunities to develop improved potato cultivars for different agronomic and other desirable traits.
Association Study of Candidate Gene Uncoupling Protein 2 (UCP2) with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in the Different Population Groups of Jammu Region
Authors: Raina Sunil , Fotra Roopali
Published: July 2019

Diabetes Mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycaemic resulting from the defects of insulin secretion, insulin action or both. The present study was conducted in order to know the molecular genetic cause of the T2DM patients belonging to the Jammu region of J&K State. Many genes have been known to be linked with the onset and progression of the T2DM therefore the present data represents the role of one of the genes Uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) known to be strongly associated with T2DM was selected. A total of 250 confirmed cases & controls samples belonging to four population groups (Hindu, Muslim, Sikh & Christians) of Jammu region were also screened for UCP2 -866G/A promoter polymorphism (rs659366). The allelic odds ratio (OR) as observed for UCP2 -866G/A polymorphism in the four population groups showed significant association with Muslim & Sikh population groups. The study undertaken supports the findings of the previous investigations and thus is an addition to the existing literatute in support of UCP2 and T2DM.
Effect of Anaerobic Co-Digestion on Microbial Community and Biogas Production
Authors: Olufemi Fasosin Emmanuel , Veronica David , Godwin Hero
Published: July 2019

A study was carried out to explore the biogas production potential of co-digestion using chicken droppings as inoculum and different substrate combinations. The various substrate combinations were mixed with the chicken droppings in the ratio 1:1 and subjected to anaerobic digestion using fabricated laboratory scale biodigesters, immersed in water bath and set at 37°C for a period of 30 days. The initial and final pH values of the digesters were recorded. The amount of biogas generated was measured by the method of downward displacement of water from a measuring cylinder. The bacteria and fungi associated with the production of biogas were isolated and then characterized using standard microbiological techniques. The microbial population isolated from the biodigesters include species of Bacillus, Clostridium, Escherichia, Pseudomonas, Yersinia, Methanosarcina, Methanobacterium, Penicillium and Aspergillus. It also indicated a slight shift from an alkaline medium to a slightly acidic environment in all the digesters. The result shows that all the substrate combinations demonstrated potentials for biogas production.
Monitoring of Mite Population and Pest Management Practices in some Apple Orchards in Kashmir Region
Authors: Qadir Ishana , Qamar Ayesha
Published: July 2019

In the present study, a preliminary survey was carried out in two apple orchards (O1 and O2) belonging to the central region of the state of Jammu and Kashmir to ascertain the prevalence of different types of pests infesting the orchards across different phases, i.e., pre-bloom, bloom and post bloom which spread across the months of end March till the harvest stage (apple picking) in October. Among various types of pests documented, the incidence of red mites was highest. Apple scab was recorded highest in the post bloom stage. The mite population was recorded by using Binomial sampling technique and calculating the Cumulative Mite Days (CMD). Mite infested leaves were 24.8% and16% in O1 and O2 respectively. Similarly, CMD increased linearly in O1 reaching to a maximum of 7.17 on the last sampling day, whereas in the 2nd orchard it showed increased to 7.42 on the last sampling day. In addition to monitoring pest population, the pesticide usage regime was also studied and extensive usage of which was recorded in both the orchards. Yellow fly trap with its corresponding synthetic pheromone was used as quantitative sampling device in monitoring the general pest population
Effect of Cooking Temperature on Biochemical Characteristics, Antioxidant Activity and Antimicrobial Potential of Seed Extracts of Assam, India
Authors: Kumari Sony , A. Ahad Rabbul Ibne , Ahmed Mobina , Moirangthem Dhanapriya , Phukan Drishtirupa
Published: July 2019

The present study investigated the effects of cooking temperature on the biochemical characteristics, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of three different seeds of Citrus fruits (Citrus limon, Citrus limetta, Citrus maxima and Citrus aurantifolia) collected from Assam, India. Total soluble sugar (72 mg/mL) were highest in Citrus maxima hydro 2-propanol seed extract before heating and 50 mg/mL in Citrus limon hydro-methanol, Citrus limetta hydro-methanol and Citrus maxima hydro-methanol seed extract after heating. Total soluble proteins before and after heating were highest 82 mg/mL and 88 mg/mL in Citrus limon 2 propanol seed extract. Free amino acid contents before and after heating were highest (62 µg/mL in Citrus limon hydro-propanol) and (40 µg/mL in Citrus limon hydro-methanol) and free fatty acids were 29.2 µg/mL and 23 µg/mL in Citrus maxima methanol extract, respectively. H2O2 scavenging activity before and after heating were highest in Citrus aurantifolia propanol (59%) and in Citrus limon (67%), respectively. Total antioxidant capacity was found highest in Citrus maxima hydro propanol (92.5%) before heating and in Citrus aurantifolia 2-propanol (65%) after heating. Antimicrobial activity of the seed extracts was studied on B. subtilis, E. coli and P. aeruginosa and minimum inhibitory concentration of the four Citrus fruits was determined. MIC of the different seed extracts was observed for 100% (v/v), 75% (v/v), 50% (v/v) and 25% (v/v) against three test microbes viz. Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. For Bacillus subtilis, the MIC was found to be at 100%, 100%, 75%, and 75% to the extract of Citrus aurantifolia hydro 2-propanol, Citrus limon methanol, Citrus limetta hydro 2 propanol and Citrus maxima hydro 2-propanol, respectively. For E. coli, the MIC was found to be at 100%, 75%, 100% and 100% for Citrus aurantifolia hydro 2-propanol, Citrus limon hydro 2-propanol, Citrus maxima hydro 2-propanol and Citrus limetta hydro 2 propanol, respectively. For Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the MIC was found to be at 100%, 100%, 75% and 50% for Citrus aurantifolia methanol, Citrus limon methanol, Citrus maxima hydro 2-propanol and Citrus limetta hydro 2 propanol, respectively.
A freelance-based foreign exchange programme: Tasmanian students’ professional development on WORLDREP
Authors: Dodd Bill , Konkes Claire , Reid Donald , Lester Libby
Published: July 2019

In the context of rapidly changing newsrooms and a constriction in entry-level positions for graduates, the Europe and Australia in the World (WORLDREP) programme seeks to prepare students by pairing freelance journalism with overseas training and exchange. However, the entrepreneurial focus of the course must be weighed against the challenges and idiosyncratic hiring criteria that graduates face on their return home. This article discusses interviews with former Tasmanian participants to compare what the students felt they acquired during the course with perceived barriers and challenges post-graduation. We find that the programme’s freelance focus cultivates a range of applied skills, an extensive publication portfolio and professional confidence. However, interviewees also reported that a lack of local newsroom contacts – traditionally provided through newsroom internships – constitutes a hurdle on their return home. This prompts a discussion about how to complement exchange programmes with local networking and professional development initiatives that can ground what students have learnt overseas in local journalism practice.
The progressive promises and the reality of news beyond industrial journalism
Authors: Waisbord Silvio
Published: July 2019

INTRODUCTION

The consolidation of digital journalism has brought about new forms of news production, distribution and use that clash with the progressive promises of post-industrial news many imagined not so long ago. False news and misinformation overshadow the contributions of digital journalism to democracy. How do virtuous forms of journalism help to confront the challenges brought about by the fragmentation of news epistemologies? How do they infuse quality information in chaotic news ecologies, especially amid the consolidation of non-journalistic intermediaries?
EDUCAÇÃO E SAÚDE:
Authors: Silva Maria Isabel , Pelazza Bruno Bordin , Souza Janeth Helta
Published: July 2019

A saúde, ao contrário do modelo biomédico e curativo, não pode ser conceituada apenas como bem-estar físico. Para que se promova saúde, além dos atendimentos necessários visando reduzir a dor humana, há que se intervir no contexto reduzindo as vulnerabilidades sociais de forma a alterar a realidade, gerando um território saudável e por consequência, a redução dos índices de adoecimento. Este artigo pretende apresentar relato de experiência da associação de práticas educativas e saúde nos contextos comunitários de violência e criminalidade, destacando as vivências do programa “Viva Mais” do complexo dos bairros da zona Oeste do município de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais. Em instituição local, uma equipe interdisciplinar triava e cadastrava os moradores de acordo com renda e número de membros da família, sendo convidados a participar, quinzenalmente, de sessões de filmes, palestras, grupo de apoio e artes. Nos resultados de frequência e assiduidade aos grupos bem como na análise do discurso e comportamento, o público atendido superou as expectativas propostas, debatendo temas como educação, prevenção à violência, violência doméstica e sua relação com a saúde. Nesse sentido, nota-se a relevância de mais estudos e propostas de intervenção a fim de se estabelecer estratégias para educação e promoção da saúde com perspectivas intersetoriais, formando profissionais, multiplicadores e educadores que busquem, além do atendimento humanizado, a redução das consequências prejudiciais da criminalidade e violência como reflexo na educação e saúde dos moradores e/ou trabalhadores dessas comunidades.
O PIBID COMO MECANISMO DE FORMAÇÃO DO PROFESSOR DE CIÊNCIAS
Authors: Amaral Marco Antônio Franco do , Silva Mariana Batista do Nascimento , LIma Michele Castro
Published: July 2019

Este artigo é parte de uma discussão do grupo de pesquisa sobre estágio e formação de professor do Instituto Federal Goiano. Nele busca-se discutir a formação do professor, bem como apresentar alguns apontamentos teóricos sobre o estágio supervisionado e como o Programa de Bolsas de Iniciação à Docência (PIBID) está sendo utilizado para suprir algumas carências no estágio. Esta pesquisa qualitativa apresenta a experiência do PIBID interdisciplinar de ciências realizado na cidade de Morrinhos-GO identificando algumas dificuldades encontradas e também ressalta como o programa pode auxiliar na formação inicial do aluno do curso de licenciatura e na formação continuada dos professores que atuam nas séries iniciais do Ensino Fundamental na área de ciências.
GESTOR ESCOLAR E GESTÃO PARTICIPATIVA
Authors: Freitas Marcia Guimarães de
Published: July 2019

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo refletir sobre a gestão educacional, o papel do gestor para conferir um caráter ético ao processo educativo, através de pesquisa qualitativa tendo como referência os seguintes autores: Libâneo, Lück, Cury, Paro, Moran, Moreno, Ferreira e outros. No contexto educacional, a cada dia, é mais evidente, que cada indivíduo exerce papel fundamental na construção da identidade da escola e ela contribui para a formação de todos que participam do processo educativo. Como as políticas educacionais, sociais e econômicas influenciam a escola e, consequentemente a atuação do gestor, é fundamental que se discuta o papel desse gestor, o seu espaço de atuação e a relevância dessa atuação nas interações com os demais sujeitos da escola a fim de se alcançar os objetivos de ensino. Apreende-se, portanto, que para gerir a escola e a educação de hoje, é preciso compreender os significados abrangentes da gestão que vão além de organizar e dirigir espaços físicos da escola. É preciso ultrapassar as formas meramente racionais, técnicas e mecânicas para possibilitar ao educando tornar-se mais humano, ao ter acesso aos conteúdos de ensino. e de suas escolas. É preciso entender que a gestão se dá no processo de ensino-aprendizagem, na aquisição do conhecimento, nas relações interpessoais e pedagógicas que se manifestam no interior da escola e na sala de aula e que a capacidade de liderança desse gestor influencia, em boa parte, a qualidade, funcionamento e eficácia da escola.
Review on Security Based Vehicular Ad-Hoc Network
Authors: . Sonika , Kumar Arora Sandeep , Masud Mahedi
Published: July 2019

VANET a vehicular ad-hoc network provides the security to vehicles. To provide security in VANET, we are using Elliptical curve cryptography. In this paper we are going to discuss various techniques of cryptography, the techniques such are Advanced Encryption Standard, Data Encryption Standard, and Triple Data Encryption Standard. These techniques are part of symmetric and asymmetric cryptography. In addition to this there are some attacks which we are discussing in this paper like, masquerade attack, replay attack, insider attack, mutual authentication attack, and parallel session attack. These attacks are on different layer. At the end we are comparing these attacks with each other and compare their quality of services.
Comparative Analysis of Clustering using AODV DSDV and CBRP
Authors: Kaur Arshdeep , Kumar Arora Sandeep , Masud Mahedi
Published: July 2019

In a network whether wireless or wired, a set of protocols which are used to distribute the information through various routes between the nodes are said to be the routing protocols which serves as a majorly vital part of the computer networks. They specify the particular and specific path of information exchange by the sending and receiving of packets. Vehicular ad- hoc networks are quite emerging technologies of today’s era presenting the provision of seamless and uninterrupted communication in the network of mobile nodes in dynamic environment. Routing itself proves to be quite a considerable and crucial challenge where the routing protocol named AODV performs its best by proving itself considerably more efficient. The stated paper focuses on the Performance comparison of the conventional protocols AODV and DSDV where AODV outperforms DSDV and offers better QoS but such conventional protocol proves to be inauspicious in VANET. This paper gives verification of better QoS of cluster based routing protocol CBR over the conventional routing protocols. The Simulation and comparison results have been carried out in Network Simulator NS-2 to briefly elaborate the impact of AODV DSDV and CBR routing protocols on the bases of Throughput, Normalized Routing Load, Control overheads, delay, Jitter and Packet drop ratio as performance metrics.