bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carrier Frequency Offset Estimation Algorithm in the Presence of I/Q Imbalance in OFDM Systems
Authors: Mohan K. Jagan , Suresh K. , Rao J. Durga
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we analyzed the feasibility of using a virtual carrier based carrier frequency offset estimation algorithm in the presence of I/Q imbalance in OFDM systems. Based on the analysis of the signal model with both receiver CFO and I/Q imbalance impairment we conclude that it is feasible to extending the virtual carrier based CFO estimation algorithm to the I/Q imbalance scenario. The CFO estimation performance is evaluated through computer simulation. Impact of parameters on the estimation performance is investigated and it is consistent with our analysis. After CFO correction, a blind based I/Q imbalance estimation and compensation algorithm is applied. The final detection performance demonstrates that the virtual carrier based CFO estimation performance is good enough for subsequent I/Q imbalance estimation and compensation.
Hardware Circuit Implementation of Automatic Control of Static Var Compensator (SVC) using Micro Controller
Authors: Yarlagadda Venu , Rao K. R. M. , Ram B. V. Sankar
Published: January 2021

The design, Fabrication of 1Kvar 1-phase fixed capacitor-thyristor controlled reactor (FC-TCR) type SVC based on microcontroller have been developed in the laboratory for SMSL(Single Machine Single Load) Test System. The test system is setup in the laboratory with a 3-phase Synchronous Machine of 5kva capacity and a 1-phase Induction Motor of 1HP Rating. Brake test have been performed on the Induction Motor by taking the supply from one of the phases of Synchronous Generator. The bus voltage is fall down from 230 V to 195 V on Full Load. Automatic control circuit Hardware of this SVC have been designed and fabricated based on Microcontroller LPC 2148 chip, the most modern industrial controller. The same test system also has been tested with SVC automatic control circuit and experimental results have been presented in this paper. The P-V Curves of the SMSL Test system with and without SVC Control have been plotted which shows the effectiveness of Automatic control of SVC on Voltage Stability enhancement.
Equity in Health Benefit Utilization and Financial Risk Protection in Outpatient and Inpatient Care: Baseline Survey of Two Socioeconomic Groups of a Pilot Primary Care Benefits Scheme in the Catchment Areas of a University-Based Health Facility
Authors: Marfori Jose Rafael A. , Dans Antonio Miguel L. , Bastillo Mica Olivine C. , Paterno Ramon Pedro P. , Rey Mia P. , Catabui Jesusa T. , Co Edna Estifania A.
Published: January 2021

Background. Health inequities in the Philippines are driven by health workforce maldistribution and health system fragmentation. These can be addressed by strengthening primary care through central social health insurance (PhilHealth) coverage. However, high reported PhilHealth population coverage and health provider accreditation have not necessarily increased health benefit utilization or financial risk protection.

Objective. This study aims to examine the impact of an enhanced, comprehensive primary care benefits package at a university-based health facility. This paper reports baseline utilization of health services and health benefits, and out-of-pocket health spending in two socioeconomic strata of the catchment population, for outpatient and inpatient services.

Methods. A questionnaire-guided survey was done among randomly selected faculty (higher income group) and non-faculty (lower income group) employees to determine the frequencies and costs of using outpatient and inpatient health services, and amounts paid out-of-pocket.

Results. Annually, both groups had approximately 1 consultation/patient and about 15 hospitalizations per 100 families annually. For hospitalizations, non-faculty inpatients utilized health insurance more frequently than faculty inpatients (75.7% vs. 66.7%), but paid higher out-of-pocket proportions (73.3% or Php 92,479/hospitalization vs. 57.4% or Php 16,273/hospitalization). For outpatient care, health benefit utilization rates were higher among non-faculty (12.4% vs 2.1% of consultations) although low overall, with similar total (Php 2,319 vs Php 1,741) and out-of-pocket expenses (100%).

Conclusion. These findings confirm inequities in accessing outpatient and inpatient health services and utilizing health insurance benefits in the target population.
Visual Outcomes and Intraoperative Complication Rates of Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery by Third Year Ophthalmology Residents in the UP-Philippine General Hospital
Authors: Kho Richard C. , Villano Maria Angelica DF.
Published: January 2021

Background. Phacoemulsification is the most important cataract surgical procedure performed by ophthalmology residents. There is an increasing and consistent trend in international studies on decreased complication rates and more efficient surgical techniques with more surgeries performed. The data collected from this study can be used to quantitatively assess the cataract surgery training of Ophthalmology residents in the country and can help to improve the quality of cataract surgeries taught and performed in the training programs.

Objectives. To analyze outcomes of phacoemulsification cataract surgeries and to determine the intraoperative complication rates of third-year residents of the University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH).

Methods. Retrospective chart review of phacoemulsification cases done by eight third-year ophthalmology residents at the UP-PGH from January 1 to December 31, 2017. Outcomes measured included postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraoperative complications (posterior capsular rent and vitreous loss), and adjusted phacoemulsification times (total phacoemulsification time multiplied by phacoemulsification power used).

Results. Four hundred ninety-two (492) cases were analyzed. Postoperative mean BCVA was 20/25. There were no significant differences in visual acuity outcomes over the course of training. Intraoperative complications occurred in 33 cases, with fewer cases with posterior capsule rent and vitreous loss later in training after the first 50 cases. There was a downward trend of adjusted phacoemulsification time throughout training, with a significant difference between the first 50 and 100 cases.

Conclusion. Good visual outcomes are achievable throughout the resident’s phacoemulsification learning curve. Surgical competency in phacoemulsification, as measured by complication rates and phacoemulsification efficiency, still improves significantly with an increasing number of cases and experience beyond the first 100 cases.
Is SARS-CoV-2 transmitted by asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic infected individuals?
Authors: Melicor Abigail F. , Rey Katrina Loren R. , Dans Leonila F.
Published: January 2021

KEY FINDINGSAsymptomatic and pre-symptomatic transmission of SARS-CoV-2 may occur.• Manifestations of COVID-19 are highly varied and may include asymptomatic cases, who do not manifest with anysigns and symptoms despite testing positive for COVID-19 by viral nucleic acid tests. Pre-symptomatic cases areinfected individuals who are still in their incubation period, hence do not exhibit any symptoms yet but eventuallydevelop symptoms.• As of June 2020, only 586 (2.8%) of the 20,990 active cases in the Philippines were classified as asymptomatic,but it is unclear whether cases are pre-symptomatic or carriers (true asymptomatic).• Based on 36 observational studies (case reports, case series, cross-sectional and cohort studies) and 9 statisticalmodeling analysis, asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic transmission of SARS-CoV-2 may occur. However, 3studies reported no transmission from pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic cases.• Studies on viral load comparing symptomatic cases with pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic cases reportedcontradicting results. The duration of viral shedding was significantly longer for symptomatic patients comparedto asymptomatic patients but similar for asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic patients.• Therewas no difference in the transmission rates of symptomatic and asymptomatic cases. However,the estimatedinfectivity and probability of transmission was higherfor symptomatic cases compared to asymptomatic cases, butresults were imprecise due to a wide confidence interval.• The World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognize thepossibility of pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic transmission. According to WHO, current evidence suggestsasymptomatic cases are less likely to transmit the virus than symptomatic cases.
Transtorno mental de professores da rede municipal de educação em Palmas TO, 2008 a 2011, e a possível relação com o trabalho
Authors: Silva Álvaro Ferreira da
Published: January 2021

O livro mostra a árdua trajetória de buscar a maior isenção possível para conseguir uma melhoria na qualidade de Notificação, do que estava disponível até então. Nos quatro anos que antecederam a pesquisa, 2 notificações apenas de Transtornos Mentais relacionadas com o trabalho. Durante a aplicação de 250 testes SRQ 20 foi possível identificar 3 casos notificáveis. Duas situações são importantes: a primeira se restringe ao número de testes que permitem significância matemática, ou X2 (qui quadrado) que depois foi conhecido como 350 testes. Se essa tivesse sido conhecida antes, teríamos significância matemática, e fica aqui aberta a dica para futuros trabalhos; a segunda tem a ver com as considerações multiprofissionais coletivas que resultou em dois anos com 10 notificações cada, e logo após, voltou a cair no esquecimento. Esse trabalho só foi possível com a autorização da Secretaria de Educação Municipal de Palmas, isso depois de uma tentativa frustrante de fazer o levantamento via Sindicato. Os Professores Christofe Dejours e Alvaro Roberto Crespo Merlo, respectivamente da França e do Brasil, foram guardiões da linha adotada da mudança e transitório do sofrimento devido ao trabalho. A contribuição ao entendimento e respeito ao complexo perfil exigido dos professores da rede básica de ensino é pela identificação dos casos de sofrimento e afastamento até completar o tratamento. A contribuição que o trabalhador dá a seu trabalho de forma prazerosa é um elemento a ser perseguido. A frustração de um professor quando não está preparado, violência no trabalho e mal-estar organizacional. Conhecedor de sua condição, o trabalhado pode fazer outra coisa para a qual esteja mais preparado ou lhe dê mais prazer. A prevenção e evitar que situações como essas ocorram, é uma contribuição do SRQ20 aplicado a rede municipal de ensino (ensino fundamental).
Os Meandros da Paixão
Authors: Toledo Renata Runavicius
Published: January 2021

A paixão, os relacionamentos extraconjugais e o casamento são temas interligados que instigam os seres humanos desde os tempos remotos. A paixão apresenta como característica principal a experiência excessiva e é difícil de ser controlada pela razão. A paixão insere o indivíduo em uma vivência complexa e tem como característica elementar a ativação da criatividade e do desejo. Será que existem diferenças na vivencia da paixão entre os grupos com e sem relação extraconjugal no que se refere às suas características? Pessoas casadas que decidem viver uma relação extraconjugal apresentam comprometimento psíquico ou funcional? Estão os `infiéis´ (segundo as normas sociais de relacionamento monogâmico) comprometidos em termos de psicopatologia? Seriam os apaixonados pessoas impulsivas e em busca de novas sensações? A busca de completude e de satisfação se encontram presentes nos relacionamentos institucionalizados?
Phenotyping Austrian Pine for Resistance Using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Conrad Anna , Villari Caterina , Sherwood Patrick , Bonello Pierluigi (Enrico)
Published: January 2021

Austrian pine (Pinus nigra) is a valuable component of the urban landscape in the Midwestern USA. In this area, it is impacted by the fungal pathogen Diplodia sapinea, which causes a tip blight and canker on infected trees. While the disease can be managed through the application of fungicides and/or by preventing environmental conditions that are favorable for the pathogen, these practices only temporarily alleviate the problem. A more sustainable solution is to use resistant trees. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy combined with chemometric analysis can distinguish between trees that vary in susceptibility to D. sapinea. Trees were phenotyped for resistance to D. sapinea by artificially inoculating shoots and measuring ensuing lesions seven days following inoculation. Then, three different chemometric approaches, including a type of machine learning called support vector machine (SVM), were used to evaluate whether or not trees that varied in susceptibility could be distinguished. Trees that varied in susceptibility could be discriminated based on FT-IR spectra collected prior to pathogen infection using the three chemometric approaches: soft independent modeling of class analogy, partial least squares regression, and SVM. While further validation of the predictive models is needed, the results suggest that the approach may be useful as a tool for screening and breeding Austrian pine for resistance to D. sapinea. Furthermore, this approach may have wide applicability in other tree/plant pathosystems of concern and economic value to the nursery and ornamental industries.
The Influence of Inducing Agents Applied by Soil Drenches on Disease Severity of Apple and Pear Scab
Authors: Percival Glynn
Published: January 2021

Apple and pear scab are foliar diseases of ornamental and fruiting apple and pear trees. Unmanaged, yield and aesthetic losses can be severe. Overreliance on synthetic fungicides means novel means of disease management are required. Field trials were conducted using apple (Malus cv. Crown Gold) and pear (Pyrus communis ‘Williams Bon Chrétien’) to assess the efficacy of a range of commercially available inducing resistance (IR) agents (harpin protein, potassium phosphite, salicylic acid derivative, and chitosan) as root drenches against both scab diseases. A synthetic fungicide (penconazole) spray program used within the UK for apple and pear scab control was included for comparison. Each IR agent was applied four times, (i) before the visible appearance of scab (April through June, i.e., preventatively) or (ii) after symptoms of scab were visibly observed (June through August, i.e., curatively). Limited efficacy as scab protectants was demonstrated when IR agents were applied curatively. Likewise, limited efficacy was recorded when IR agents were applied once or twice as a preventative measure. However, when IR agents were applied as root drenches greater or equal to three times, efficacy as scab protectants was confirmed (increased leaf chlorophyll content, increased fruit yield, reduced leaf and fruit scab severity). A synthetic fungicide penconazole spray program provided the greatest protection against apple and pear scab in all trials when sprayed preventatively rather than curatively. Results suggest application of at least three root drenches from April through June with an appropriate IR agent provides a useful addition to existing methods of apple and pear scab management under field conditions.
Optimizing Reduction Pruning of Trees Under Electrical Lines: The Influence of Intensity and Season of Pruning on Epicormic Branch Growth and Wound Compartmentalization
Authors: Perrette Guillaume , Delagrange Sylvain , Messier Christian
Published: January 2021

Reduction pruning of the main stem is commonly used during the maintenance of power lines to encourage the establishment and development of scaffold limbs away from wires. Understanding the physiology of epicormic branch initiation and growth as well as wound compartmentalization following reduction pruning are important for optimizing the pruning cycle and maintaining healthy and safe trees. In this study, the influence of both intensity and time of year of pruning on epicormic branch response and wound compartmentalization was investigated on 56 11-year-old Pennsylvania ash trees (Fraxinus pennsylvanicaMarsh.) about 5 to 7 m in height within a controlled nursery environment. During the second growing season following reduction of the main stem, the number, height, and volume of epicormic branches, as well as tallest epicormic branches and the area of discolored wood, increased with pruning intensity. Pruning during the leaf-on season compared to the leaf-off season limited the establishment and development of epicormic branches without affecting wound-closure rate or the area of wood discoloration at the cutting point. Results are consistent with the known seasonal fluctuation of carbohydrates reserves. In the context of the electrical distribution network, where trees are subjected to pruning throughout the year, trees pruned in summer during a maintenance cycle could be pruned during the next cycle, in winter, and so on, to optimize the return interval of the pruning cycle.
O INTERDISCURSO ENTRE-DISCURSOS
Authors: Cattelan João Carlos
Published: January 2021

Pretendo, neste artigo, a partir da definição de ‘interdiscurso’ de Michel Pêcheux (1995/2011) e de alguns exemplos do autor, refletir sobre o conceito, no que suponho seria o seu sentido estrito, e pretendo, ademais, mostrar que, embora a noção se mantenha irretocável, há diferentes modos de manifestação da interdiscursividade, das quais destaco a relação entre discursos como rito genético, como embate polêmico e como efeito de sustentação.
GOETHE: POETA E PSICANALISTA
Authors: Guimaraes Ana Rosa Gonçalves De Paula
Published: January 2021

O presente estudo objetiva evidenciar por quais maneiras o poeta pré-romântico alemão, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe influenciou os posteriores escritores do Romantismo, como também ensejou temas próprios à psicanálise fundada por Freud. Para isso, será feita uma breve descrição do Romantismo Alemão, para, posteriormente, analisar a construção do sujeito; o valor das vivências subjetivas; aos dualismos psíquicos e aos fenômenos de natureza inconsciente – tendo como eixo a questão de que Goethe foi psicanalista e/ou Freud foi romântico.
QUESTIONAMENTOS E DISCUSSÕES ESSENCIAIS ACERCA DE UM POSSÍVEL SISTEMA DE ESCRITA PARA O HUNSRÜCKISCH BRASILEIRO
Authors: SCHAUMLOEFFEL Marco Aurelio
Published: January 2021

O objetivo deste trabalho é discutir basilarmente por que e se o Hunsrückisch brasileiro, a língua falada por grande parte dos descendentes de alemães no Brasil, deve ter um sistema de escrita estabelecido. Com base nestas questões, as vantagens e desvantagens de um eventual estabelecimento de um sistema de escrita serão analisados e ponderações feitas sobre o que este sistema, no contexto da complexidade e da presença de muitas variedades, imprescindivelmente deve conter e levar em conta. Serão trazidos exemplos de dois contextos completamente diferentes, nomeadamente da Suíça e das Ilhas ABC (Aruba, Bonaire e Curaçao, no Caribe), onde são falados, respectivamente, o Alemão suíço e o Papiamentu, com o propósito de verificar como estes casos podem apontar para possíveis caminhos e soluções para estas questões. Além disso, duas propostas já existentes de sistemas de escrita para o Hunsrückisch brasileiro serão analisadas e testadas quanto a sua funcionalidade e aplicabilidade.
DO CINEMA PARA A LITERATURA: a hibridização midiática através do diálogo entre o filme Dancer in the Dark, de Lars von Trier, e o romance Das nackte Auge, de Yoko Yawada
Authors: PORTO Thaís Gonçalves Dias , BARCELLOS Natalia Corrêa Porto Fadel
Published: January 2021

Em Das nackte Auge, Yoko Tawada conta a história de uma jovem vietnamita que, devido a um engano, desembarca na cidade de Paris, onde, impossibilitada de se comunicar com o mundo exterior, encontra no cinema, mais especificadamente nas personagens interpretadas por Catherine Deneuve, um local de refúgio e identificação. As narrativas dos filmes vistos pela personagem contaminam de forma progressiva a narrativa do romance, culminando no último capítulo intitulado Dancer in the Dark, referência ao filme de Lars von Trier, cuja interferência cria uma terceira narrativa. Tal construção intermidiática, típica da literatura contemporânea, é apresentada no romance com o objetivo de suscitar questões acerca da identidade do sujeito do tempo presente e do seu olhar (desnudo) sobre o estranho, o estrangeiro.
A LUTA DO MOVIMENTO SURDO PELO DIREITO À LÍNGUA
Authors: ANDRÉ Tamara Cardoso , Bernal MAZACOTTE Andréa Carolina
Published: January 2021

Escrito em coautoria entre uma professora surda e uma professora ouvinte, tem o objetivo de relatar as conquistas do Movimento Surdo em Foz do Iguaçu. Discute leis federais e documentos oficiais do Ministério da Educação (MEC) e da Secretaria do Estado da Educação do Paraná sobre direito à educação e à Língua Brasileira de Sinais. Conclui que o Movimento Surdo não apenas precisou lutar para aprovar leis que afirmassem o direito ao uso da língua de sinais, como também lutar para a efetivação destas leis. Por isso, a luta do Movimento Surdo é permanente e precisa estar viva em cada município e em cada instituição, tendo em vista a importância que tem a Língua de Sinais para o desenvolvimento global da pessoa surda.
PECULIARIDADES NA ESCRITA DA CRIANÇA SURDA
Authors: SOUZA Antonio Carlos Santana de , PASSOS Alessandra Figueiredo Kraus , QUINTINO Wellington Pedrosa
Published: January 2021

O presente artigo propõe uma análise de textos escritos por crianças surdas, em fase de aprendizagem da escrita da língua portuguesa. Para realização de análises das produções textuais, escritos por essas crianças, foram realizadas duas coletas de escrita de produções textuais apresentadas em Libras. Os resultados apontaram para a constatação de que, a criança surda que não tem o contato com sua língua natural (Libras) desde o seu nascimento, apresenta dificuldades no processo de aprendizagem de uma segunda língua e por consequência: a escrita da mesma. Logo, essa aquisição implicará em características particulares manifestadas na escrita de crianças surdas. Os seguintes critérios: espaçamento entre as palavras, ausência de artigos, pronomes, conjunções e as combinações de diferentes letras (vogais e consoantes), tornam a escrita do surdo, em processo de aquisição, um diferencial exclusivo da escrita dessas pessoas.
EDUCAÇÃO BILÍNGUE MEDIANTE PRÁTICAS DA LITERATURA SURDA PARA ASCENDÊNCIA E VALORIZAÇÃO CULTURAL E IDENTITÁRIA
Authors: PIN Aline Keryn , SILVEIRA Joicemara Severo
Published: January 2021

Das inúmeras nuances da educação bilíngue e do contexto Literário, enfatizam-se as pesquisas sobre a Literatura Surda ao longo dos últimos anos. Resultado este da identificação e autoafirmação do povo surdo que busca na divulgação da Literatura Surda a disseminação de suas formas de experimentações visuais. O presente artigo aborda a educação bilíngue mediante práticas desta literatura contribuindo para o processo de valorização da cultura e Identidade Surda mediante representações literárias produzidas por este sujeito.  Para tanto, as pesquisas das autoras Karnopp (2008; 2010), Quadros e Sutton-Spence (2006) e Strobel (2009) são indispensáveis na fundamentação teórica deste escrito, pois, retratam o que há de mais avançado no campo teórico das experiências sensoriais da pessoa surda. Assim, a pesquisa desenvolvida busca contribuir para o enriquecimento do conhecimento dos alunos surdos sobre seu povo, sua cultura e construção identitária.
APRESENTAÇÃO
Authors: FRUTOS Lara , SCHRÖDER Luciane Thomé
Published: January 2021

Prezados leitores,Os estudos linguísticos que se desenvolveram a partir do século XX têm, de maneira gradual, contribuído para mudanças de paradigmas no ensino. Se nas questões relativas aos gêneros textuais, esses estudos já tiveram grande impacto – e comprovamos isso a partir dos documentos oficiais que regem o ensino de língua portuguesa no Brasil –, ainda é bastante tímida a influência dos avanços das pesquisas linguísticas no ensino de questões gramaticais. O próprio conceito de gramática, que abrange a língua como um fenômeno de natureza fonética, fonológica, morfológica e sintática, ainda não ocupou o lugar do que se entende como objeto de estudo e ensino de gramática nas escolas.Por isso, este número da Revista Trama dedica-se, especialmente, a refletir sobre as contribuições da Fonética e da Fonologia para o ensino, a partir dos trabalhos dos colegas, a fim de evidenciar quão importante é a relação entre a ciência linguística e a sala de aula, seja no ensino de língua materna ou língua estrangeira.Marechal Cândido Rondon, fevereiro de 2019.
VOCES DE LA POESÍA CRÍTICA FEMENINA DE URUGUAY Y DE BRASIL: IDEA VILARIÑO Y HELENA KOLODY
Authors: LOPEZ Cristian Javier
Published: January 2021

Las voces femeninas se encuentran en el canon literario del continente americano en una notoria desventaja en comparación a los escritores, quienes siempre dominaron el campo de las letras. Históricamente la figura de la escritora fue relegada a los márgenes por diferentes motivos de índole social, económica, cultural, etc. A comienzos del siglo pasado, y en ese marco comentado antes, dos mujeres sudamericanas alzaron sus voces de manera contundente: Idea Vilariño, de Uruguay, y Helena Kolody, de Brasil. Ambas autoras exponen en sus obras líricas visiones sobre el conflicto bélico de la Segunda Guerra Mundial y su preocupación con la sociedad de su tiempo. Los poemas de estas dos escritoras demuestran el comprometimiento de la mujer con la sociedad y la consciencia de retratar lo vivido, por medio de la palabra escrita. Revelar ese comprometimiento de las poetas es nuestro objetivo mayor. Para tanto buscamos apoyo, también, en visiones teóricas como las de D´Onofrio (1978), Paz (1991); Guerra (2004; 2007).REFERÊNCIAS:D´ONOFRIO, S. Poemas e Narrativas: estruturas. São Paulo: Duas cidades, 1978.GUERRA, L. La mujer fragmentada: Historias de un signo. Chile: Ed. Cuarto propio, 2004.__________. Mujer y escritura - fundamentos teóricos de la crítica feminista. México: Universidad Autónoma de México, 2007.KOLODY, H. Infinita Sinfonia. WOELLNER, Adélia Maria (Org.) Curitiba, PR: Edição do autor, 2011.PAZ, O. Convergencias. Barcelona: Seix Barral, 1991.VILARIÑO, I. Poesía Completa. Montevideo: Cal y Canto, 2012.___________ Diario de juventud. Montevideo: Cal y Canto, 2013.ENVIADO EM 30-04-19 | ACEITO EM 05-07-19
The Impact of Succession Planning on Product and Service Innovation at Family Businesses in Yemen.
Authors: Alradhi Tariq , Al-Abed Mohammed , Alkherbi Ahmed
Published: January 2021

As increasing numbers of family businesses are emerging, the marketplace is in danger of becoming saturated with products that end users do not understand while competition between businesses becomes stiffer. For businesses that operate in a saturated space to access new opportunities, they need to continually invest in the development of new products and services via a process of creativity and innovation. However, in the contemporary business landscape, innovation has extended beyond being a means of gaining a competitive advantage to being a necessity. To achieve this objective, family firms need to develop an understanding of the factors that influence innovation in order to promote, preserve, and boost innovative practices. This research investigated the impact of succession planning on product and service innovation in Yemeni family businesses. Quantitative approach was employed for the purpose of answering the research questions and testing the underlying hypotheses. A survey questionnaire was utilized as the main instrument to gather the required data from the owners of family firms and organizations that the Yemen Tax Authority has classified as top taxpayers. The sample size consisted of 120 family businesses whose headquarters were located in Sana'a City, Republic of Yemen. Only 116 questionnaires were completed with no invalid data, representing a high response rate of 97%. The results show significant relationships between succession planning and its four dimensions; successor selection and training, post-succession business strategy, post-succession role of incumbent, dissemination of the succession decision with product and service innovation. In addition, the results of Regression analysis reveal that succession planning as the whole independent variable has a significant impact on innovation. Furthermore, results show that the four dimensions of succession planning; successor selection and training, post-succession business strategy, post-succession role of incumbent, and dissemination of the succession decision have a significant impact on product and service innovation. These results provide recommendations to the family business owners, at that they should establish strong and vested plans for succession. They should pay attention to the quality of training that is offered to potential successors. Family businesses should build and rely on "family constitution", which is considered as an important document that includes a definition of the basic values, vision, and general objectives of the company.
In vitro Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity of Immunity BoosterTea Formulation
Authors: Mehmood Zafar
Published: January 2021

Abstract-Currently, there is much growing interest in the use of medicinal plants as modulators of the complex immune system. Through a number of vast researches conducted in the area, it is being explored that many of the phytochemicals in the form of alkaloids,tannins,flavonoids,terpenoids,polysaccharides, lactones, and glycoside products areresponsibletocausealterationsintheimmunomodulatory properties. Keeping in mind, the tremendous potential of the medicinal plants and their derived drugs, this study is undertaken and an immunobooster tea formulation (IMBF-01-20) was designed and in vitroantimicrobial and antioxidant activity was tested. The results showed strong antimicrobial activity of formulation(IMBF-01-20) against Staph.aureuswith diameter of zone of inhibition of 32 mm in methanol extract followed by 20 mm in E.coli. While hexane extract also showing good inhibition of test organisms followed by Ethanol extract.Considering the growing demand of natural antioxidant, IMBF-01-20 was tested for their antioxidant activity using DPPH radical scavenging assay.Antioxidant activity (93.4%) was observed in immunobooster tea formulation and revealed it as a natural antioxidant.
Socjologiczne zmagania z Platonem
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Michał
Published: January 2021

Platon nie należy do ulubieńców teorii socjologicznej, choć stworzył ogólną teorię społeczeństwa, która zrywa z mitologicznymi wyobrażeniami człowieka. Jeśli bywa przedmiotem rozważań, to raczej jako bohater negatywny. Przykładem może być poświęcone mu dzieło Alvina Gouldnera Enter Plato. Niniejszy artykuł ma na celu wykroczenie poza jednoznacznie krytyczną perspektywę Gouldnera i wskazanie, jakie korzyści może przynieść sięganie do dialogów Platońskich.
SSSC to control Power flow in the Line
Authors:   Department of Electrical Engineering, Yeshwantrao Chavan College of Engineering, Nagpur, (M.S.) India., R Sandeep Gaigowal , S Rohan Khonde ,   Department of Electrical Engineering, Yeshwantrao Chavan College of Engineering, Nagpur, (M.S.) India., N Dhiraj Katole ,   Department of Electrical Engineering, J. L. Chaturvedi College of Engineering, Nagpur, (M.S.) India.
Published: January 2021

FACTS controller is the Power Electronics based static controller which enhance power transfer capability and increase controllability of the power system network. Static Synchronous Series Compensator (SSSC) is VSC based controller which is used in transmission network with the aim of utilization of existing line upto its fullest extent. This paper demonstrates transmission line power flow control with the help of SSSC. A control scheme of SSSC is presented to control active power flow in the line. Increase in the power flow in the line is realized with SSSC operation in capacitive mode of operation and decrease in the power flow is realized with SSSC operated in inductive mode of operation. MATLAB simulation studies are demonstrated to validate the SSSC operation.
CLINICAL FEATURES OF PATIENTS WITH CORONARY ARTERY ECTASIA COMPARED WITH STENOTIC CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE
Authors: Habib Aatika , Farhan Shaheer , Khalil Hafsa , Akbar Muhammad Kamran , Samore Naseer Ahmad , Janjua Anam Fatima , Naseem Shaista
Published: January 2021

Objective: To study the prevalence of coronary artery ectasia in the population of patients referred for coronary angiography. To describe clinical characteristics of patients with coronary artery ectasia, analyzing presentation and cardiovascular risk. To compare clinical and angiographic variables in patients with and without coronary artery ectasia.

Study Design: Descriptive cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Adult cardiology department in Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology/NIHD, Rawalpindi, 6 months duration after approval of synopsis i.e. Oct 2018 to May 2019.

Methodology: After meeting the inclusion criteria 300 patients were enrolled. Patients admitted in AFIC/NIHD with chest pain, ST-elevation MI, Non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction and unstable angina were enrolled. Coronary angiogram was done by cardiologist. Two distinct cardiologists or resident cardiologists reported the angiograms including the coronary artery anatomy and the presence of ectatic segments or any stenotic lesions in each vessel. All the collected data was entered and analyzed on SPSS version 23.

Results: The mean patients was 58.23 ± 11.73 years. The male to female ratio was 14:1. Coronary artery ectasia was detected in 53 (17.7%) patients of coronary angiography. Stenotic coronary artery disease was detected more commonly in patients having factors like diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia but specifically among smokers, ectatic segments were detected higher.

Conclusion: Compared to coronary artery disease, coronary ectasia occurred more in smokers and less in diabetes.
SHORT TERM AND LONG-TERM OUTCOMES OF LEFT MAIN PCI AT AFIC-NIHD
Authors: Rehmat Samra , Iqbal Tahir , Farhan Shaheer , Samin Ariz , Khan Sajid , Kalil Hafsa , Bukhari Jasia , Safi Shoaib
Published: January 2021

Objective: To study the short-term and long-term outcomes of left main angioplasty at AFIC-NIHD.

Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology/National Institute of Heart Disease (AFIC/NIHD) in 2018.

Methodology: All cases of left main angioplasty done in 2018 were included in the study. The patients were followed up in clinic or on telephone and mortality (in-hospital, 30 days) outcomes and survival duration were recorded. Kaplan Meier curves were generated to show the survival difference between those who underwent primary or elective LMPCI and survival difference between patients based on extent of coronary artery disease.

Results: A total of 73 patients underwent elective or primary left main angioplasty. The extent of coronary artery disease was: single vessel coronary artery disease (26%), double vessel coronary artery disease (37%), and three vessel coronary artery disease (37%). Thirteen patients (17.8%) had primary left main angioplasty, and 60 patients (82.2%) had elective left main angioplasty. Intravascular ultrasound was performed in only 3 patients. The mean duration of follow up was 395 days. A total of 6 (8.2%) patients died. Three patients died in-hospital, another 2 within the first 30 days, and the remaining beyond 30 days. Two of the dead patients had double vessel coronary artery disease, and 4 had three vessel coronary artery disease. The survival difference between the primary vs elective groups was insignificant (Log Rank (Mantel-Cox) (p=0.27). The survival difference between the 3 groups with different extent of coronary artery disease was insignificant (p=0.15).

Conclusion: Left main PCI is a safe procedure with acceptable outcomes. Patients with more severe coronary artery disease tend to fare worse.
COMPARISON OF INCIDENCE OF STERNAL WOUND DEHISCENCE AFTER SIMPLE INTERRUPTED STERNAL CLOSURE VS FIGURE-OF-EIGHT STERNAL CLOSURE IN PATIENTS OF CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS GRAFT SURGERY
Authors: Ashfaq Muhammad , Ali Nasir , Janjua Asif Mahmood , Khan Naser Ali , Zamir Ali Gohar , Javaid Rehana
Published: January 2021

Objective: To compare the incidence of sternal wound dehiscence between simple interrupted vs. figure-of-eight sternal closure techniques for median sternotomy in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

Study Design: Comparative prospective, randomized control trial.

Place and Duration of Study: Study conducted at Department of Cardiac Surgery, Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology Rawalpindi, from Apr to Dec 2019.

Methodology: A total of 206 patients were included in study. These patients were divided into two groups; group “A”: cases which will undergo simple interrupted sternal wire closure technique (n1=103). Group “B”: cases which will undergo figure-of-eight sternal wire closure technique (n2 = 103).

Results: There were no statistical difference in the pre-operative data of the patients. The incidence of sternal wound dehiscence in simple interrupted closure was 6.79% while in figure of eight closure technique it was noted to be 1.94%. A statistically significant difference was noted in both the closure technique (p<0.05).

Conclusions: Figure-of-eight sternal wire closure technique provides better strength and stability to sternum along with reduced incidence of sternal wound dehiscence as compare to simple interrupted wire closure.
COMPARISON OF THE EFFECT OF ANTEGRADE AND ANTEGRADE/RETROGRADE CARDIOPLEGIA ON THE OUTCOME OF CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS GRAFT SURGERY FOR SEVERE CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE
Authors: Zamir Ali Gohar , Janjua Asif Mahmood , Siddiqeh Musfireh , Pervaiz Farrah , Shah Noor , Iqbal Muhammad Afsheen , Ashfaq Muhammad
Published: January 2021

Objective: To compare the early outcome of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft surgery using a combination of antegrade and retrograde cardipoplegia with that utilizing antegrade cardioplegia alone in triple vessel coronary artery disease.

Study Design: Comparative cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Adult Cardiac Surgery of Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology and National Institute of Heart Diseases, Rawalpindi, from Sep 2013 to Apr 2019.

Methodology: A total of 160 patients with triple vessel coronary artery disease who underwent CABG surgery for 90% or greater stenos is in at least one major vessel in each of the three territories, namely the left anterior descending, the circumflex and the right coronary artery were investigated retrospectively. These were divided into 2 equal groups on the basis of the technique of administration of cardioplegia: in group-1 only ante grade blood cardioplegia was administered for myocardial protection and group-2 was given ante grade and retrograde cardiolplegia. Clinical outcomes like peri-operative mortality and morbidity were recorded, and serum creatine kinase MB, lactate, and mixed venous oxygen saturation levels were monitored. Two dimensional echocardiogram was performed on the 6th post-operative day and follow-up visits were planned 1 week and 4 weeksafter discharge from hospital.

Results: There were 2 (2.5%) early deaths in group-1 and no peri-operative mortality in group-2. Five patients in group-1 (6.25%) and 2 (2.5%) in group-2 had non-fatal peri-operative myocardial infarction. However, significant differences included increased incidence of intra-operative ventricular dysrythmias, higher CK-MB levels at 24 hours after surgery, and increased requirement of intra-aortic balloon pump and inotropic support in Group-1.

Conclusion: We conclude from this study that the combined delivery of ante grade and retrograde cardioplegia during CABG surgery for triple vessel coronary artery disease provides better myocardial protection and hence better outcome than antegrade cardioplegia alone.Keywords: , , ,
BEATING HEART MITRAL VALVE REPLACEMENT. EXPERIENCE AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
Authors: Siddiqeh Musfireh , Khan Imran , Fayaz Fakher -e- , Janjua Asif , Zamir Ali Gohar , Mushtaq Afifa
Published: January 2021

Objective: To study the early outcomes of mitral valve surgery performed with a beating heart and cardiopulmonary bypass.

Study Design: Prospective descriptive study.

Place and Duration of Study: Cardiac Surgery department, Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology, Rawalpindi, from Aug 2017 to Aug 2019.

Methodology: Consecutive patients requiring mitral valve surgery were included in the study. Those requiring multiple procedures, redo procedures and emergency procedures were excluded from the study. Data was collected on preformed proformas and perioperative variables were recorded. Patients were followed till discharge or 30 days after the surgery. Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23.0 was used to analyse the data.

Results: A total of 27 patients were included in the study, 21 (77.78%) female and 6 (22.2%) male patients. The mean age of the patients was 30.89 ± 10.8 years. Of the cohort, 4 (14.8%) had mitral stenosis, 16 (59.3%) had mitral regurgitation and mixed disease (both mitral stenosis and mitral regurgitation) was present in 7 (25.9%). The median pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) was 34 mmHg. All the patients received mechanical mitral valve prosthesis, 27 (100%). A modified Devaga’s procedure for tricuspid valve repair was done in 4 (14.8%) patients. Most of the patients required only mild inotropic support, 22 (81.4%). Median intensive care unit stay was 24 hours with a mean of 33 ± 16 hours. All the patients were alive at the end of the early follow up.

Conclusion: Beating heart mitral valve surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass is a feasible technique. It has acceptable early outcome in terms of mortality and major morbidity indicators.
COMPARISON OF CARDIAC TROPONIN-I LEVELS IN POSTOPERATIVE PERIOD OF ON PUMP VERSUS OFF PUMP CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS SURGERY
Authors: Ullah Kifayat , Waseem Muhammad , Janjua Asif Mahmood , Khadim Shakila , Amin Mashood Shahid , Ashfaq Muhammad , Mustafa Anum
Published: January 2021

Objective: To compare cardiac troponin-I levels in post-operative period of on-pump (ONCAB) versus off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery.

Study Design: Prospective Observational Study.

Place and Duration of Study: Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology, from Jan 2019 to Dec 2019.

Methodology: This prospective observational study was done at Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology from 1st January 2019 to 31st December 2019. Eighty six (43 in each on-pump and off-pump) patients admitted for elective coronary artery bypass grafting, aged 30-80 years were included in the study. Baseline data and cardiac troponin-I levels preoperatively as well as at 6, 12, 18 and 24 hours after the surgery in both groups were recorded and analyzed.

Results: Out of 100 patients, mean age of the patients was 57.59 ± 10.24 years and 85% were males. All the base line characteristics, comorbid conditions and intra-operative findings were identical in both groups. There was marked rise in CK-MB levels postoperatively in overall participants. There was significant rise in Troponin I levels postoperatively in overall participants. Compared to OPCAB, postoperative Troponin I at 6hours and 12-hours was significantly higher in ONCAB.

Conclusion: Compared to OPCAB, postoperative Troponin I at 6 hours and 12-hours was significantly high in ONCAB. However, there was no gross discrepancy in postoperative Troponin I levels between OPCAB and ONCAB at 18- & 24-hours after surgery.
COMPARISON OF EFFECT OF PRIMARY PERCUTANEOUS CORONARY INTERVENTION WITH STREPTOKINASE IN ACUTE ST ELEVATION MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION (STEMI) ON LEFT VENTRICULAR FUNCTION AFTER 3 MONTHS
Authors: Abbas Saleha , Siddiqui Abdul Hameed , Cheema Ammar , Abbas Ayesha , Khan Sadaf , Janjua Anum Fatima , Tuyyab Farhan
Published: January 2021

Objective: To assess the left ventricular function three months after the primary percutaneous coronary intervention versus Streptokinase in ST elevation myocardial infarction.

Study Design: Prospective comparative study.

Place and Duration of Study: Cardiac Catheterization Lab, in-patients and out patients departments of Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology and National Institute of Heart Diseases, Rawalpindi from Jun 2018 to Jun 2019.

Methodology: Patients included in the study were with first acute MI treated with primary PCI/SK, having systolic blood pressure >90 mmhg, pre-infarction EF >40% and with no previous history of coronary artery bypass grafting or angioplasty. All patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention/Streptokinase injection were assessed for left ventricular function at day one by transthoracic echocardiography and then three months later by transthoracic echocardiography. Two-dimensional echocardiography was being performed immediately after primary percutaneous coronary intervention on day one and at three months follow-up.

Results: There were 80 patients recruited in the study. Mean age of the patients was 55.5 ± 11.6 years with range 36-81 years. Sixty nine (86.3%) patients were male while 11 (13.48%) were female patients. Most common comorbid was smoking 37 (46.3%) followed by diabetes mellitus 25 (31.3%). Most common culprit artery was left anterior descending 38 (47.5%) followed by left circumflex 15 (18.8%) and then right coronary artery 14 (17.5%). Independent sample t-test was applied to find out the statistical significance between two groups (Streptokinase group vs PPCI group). Ejection fraction of the patients was checked at the time of discharge and after three months follow-up and result showed the statistical significance with p-value <0.05.

Conclusion: Based on this comparative analysis of improvement of left ventricular function between streptokinase and primary percutaneous coronary intervention, we concluded that after three months satisfactory ejection fraction is seen in patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention as compared to patients treated with streptokinase.
VALIDATION OF MAXIMUM OXYGEN CONSUMPTION (VO2 MAX) WITH SOCIETY OF THORACIC SURGEON (STS) RISK SCORE IN PREOPERATIVE ASSESSMENT OF PATIENTS UNDERGOING CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS GRAFT (CABG) SURGERY: A PILOT STUDY
Authors: Chaudhry Imtiaz Ahmad , Pervaiz Farrah , Ahmed Kaleem , Naseer Mehwish , Siddiqa Aysha , Khalil Hafsa , Iqbal Muhammad Afsheen
Published: January 2021

Objective: To validate VO2 max testing with society of thoracic surgeon (STS) score in the preoperative assessment of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

Study Design: This was a single center and observational study.

Place and Duration of Study: Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology and National Institute of Heart Diseases, Rawalpindi

Methodology: Forty four adult patients undergoing elective on pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery with an EF of >45% were included in this study as per inclusion criteria through non probability consecutive sampling. Five patients were lost to follow up. In 39 patients preoperative society of thoracic surgeons scoring was done and VO2 max of these patients was calculated. After coronary artery bypass graft surgery these patients were followed for mortality and morbidity. The discriminative capacity of VO2 max was compared with the STS risk scoring system using Receiver Operating Characteristic curves (ROC-curves).

Results: We analyzed the data of 39 patients male 35 (89.7%), female 4 (10.3%). Mean age of our study population was 55.0 ± 10.2 years and a mean BMI of 26.8 ± 3.81. There were 20 (54.1%) hypertensives, 2 (5.4%) diabetics and 5 (13.5%) smokers. There was only one patient with a history of previous myocardial infarction. Majority of the patients belonged to NYHA class II 30 (76.9%) with a mean EF of 56.6 ± 5.17. Prolonged Ventilation (>24 hrs) was significantly associated with lesser values of VO2 max with a p-value of 0.01. Similarly, post-operative mortality and prolonged hospital stay in the low VO2 max groups correlated with the trends predicted by the society of thoracic surgeons scoring system.

Conclusion: We conclude from this study that low preoperative VO2 max levels correlated well with STS scoring system for predicting mortality, ventilation time and length of hospital stay.