bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introducing TBL in Clinical Biochemistry: Perceptions of Students and Faculty
Authors: Alamoudi Aliaa , Hassanien Mohammed , Al Shawwa Lana , Bima Abdulhadi , Gad Hoda , Tekian Ara
Published: January 2018

This article was migrated. The article was not marked as recommended. Clinical biochemistry is one of the foundational sciences essential for preparing medical students to achieve the optimal benefit of their clinical experience. In the Faculty of Medicine of King Abdulaziz University (FOM-KAU), clinical biochemistry is taught as a core course and system-based modules in 2nd, 3rd and 4th year. The teaching strategy is mainly teacher-centered, with lecture comprising the highest percentage among teaching methods, while self-directed learning (SDL) receiving the lowest percentage.The aim of this study was to evaluate the current teaching methods of clinical biochemistry at the FOM-KAU, while concurrently assessing the need for introducing a new student-centred teaching method. This was done through evaluating the level of knowledge, interest, and attitude of medical students and teaching faculty in Team Based Learning (TBL) in clinical biochemistry courses.The results of this study revealed that almost half of the second year medical students did not enjoy attending clinical biochemistry lectures. In addition, approximately half of them recall only 30% of the information they have learned one year after the exam. On the other hand, more than 50% of them enjoyed solving problems /cases, and doing activities during the session. At the same time students and academic staff members had some concerns regarding introducing TBL as a new teaching method. In conclusion, the current teaching methods of clinical biochemistry at the FOM-KAU needs to be modified, with introducing more student-centered teaching methods, like TBL. However, students' concerns such as team work, and faculty concerns regarding student preparation need to be addressed carefully with the participation of all stakeholders. Workshops to teach both students and faculty the elements of TBL would be of great benefit to address any concerns.
METODOLOGÍA DOCENTE: INCIDENCIA EN LA APATÍA DE LOS ESTUDIANTES HACIA LAS CIENCIAS SOCIALES - Educational methodology: incidence in students apathy towards social sciences.
Authors: Garavito Campillo Érica Tatiana , González Martínez María de Jesús
Published: January 2018

Este texto es resultado de una investigación sobre la influencia de la metodología del docente en los comportamientos apáticos de los estudiantes hacia las ciencias sociales. Para ello se analiza el comportamiento de los estudiantes, la metodología del docente y las percepciones tanto del docente como de los estudiantes acerca de dicha metodología; se establece relaciones entre esta con la motivación estudiantil, tomando como base teorías acerca de la motivación y el estilo de enseñanza docente con autores como Louis Not y Carlos Enrique Cajamarca, entre otros. Es una investigación cualitativa de carácter etnográfico realizada en la Institución Educativa Santa Rosa de Lima, de Montería, ubicada en el departamento de Córdoba, Colombia. La población objeto de estudio estuvo representada por los actores escolares de la institución educativa, y la muestra fueron los estudiantes de grado décimo. Se encontró que los estudiantes manifiestan apatía ante una metodología eminentemente monótona, en un contexto donde las percepciones docente-estudiantes difieren.
Single Arm, Phase II Study of Cisplatin, Docetaxel, and Erlotinib in Patients with Recurrent and/or Metastatic Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: William William N. , Tsao Anne S. , Feng Lei , Ginsberg Lawrence E. , Lee J. Jack , Kies Merrill S. , Glisson Bonnie S. , Kim Edward S.
Published: January 2018

Lessons Learned

The combination of cisplatin, docetaxel, and erlotinib as frontline treatment for recurrent and/or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinomas led to a response rate of 62%. This result exceeded the prespecified target response rate of 50% and represented an improvement compared with historical controls. This regimen warrants further investigation.

Background

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays a key role in the carcinogenesis of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). We conducted this clinical study to test the hypothesis that the addition of erlotinib to first-line cisplatin and docetaxel for patients with recurrent and/or metastatic HNSCC would yield a response rate of at least 50%, representing an improvement from historical controls.

Methods

Patients with recurrent and/or metastatic HNSCC, with at least one measurable lesion, no prior chemotherapy for recurrent and/or metastatic disease, prior combined modality therapy completed >6 months before enrollment, and performance status ≤2 were treated with cisplatin, docetaxel, and erlotinib for up to six cycles, followed by maintenance erlotinib until disease progression. The primary endpoint was response rate.

Results

Fifty patients were enrolled (42 male, 12 never smokers, 19 with oropharynx cancer). The median number of cycles was five; 31 patients initiated maintenance erlotinib; 14 patients required erlotinib dose reductions. The objective response rate was 62%, and the median progression-free and overall survival were 6.1 and 11.0 months, respectively. Toxicity profiles were consistent with the known side effects of the study drugs.

Conclusion

The study met its primary endpoint and improved response rates compared with historical controls. The findings support further evaluation of the regimen for recurrent and/or metastatic HNSCCs.
Good practices in physical activity? A case study conducted at a senior academy
Authors: Condessa Isabel Cabrita
Published: January 2018

Apesar do aumento da longevidade ser uma característica dos nossos dias, há que tomar as opções certas ao longo da vida para melhorar a qualidade de vida do idoso. Cremos que “ser ativo” em todas as idades, continua a ser um factor de referência para a promoção de saúde e do bem estar, numa perspetiva de integridade bio-psico-social.Neste estudo de caso, realizado com um grupo de pessoas no âmbito de um curso oferecido numa academia sénior, procurámos conhecer quais as Boas Práticas – em tarefas diárias e em exercício físico, desses mesmos idosos. Analisando as suas vivências em atividade física (AF) regular (em experiências mais positivas e negativas) e as suas perspetivas sobre a relevância e condições dessa prática, a partir de testemunhos deixados por este seniores.Nós observámos que ainda há muito a fazer para aumentar a sua adesão a uma vida ativa e a partir desta informação propusemos uma reflexão sobre uma melhoria na oferta de programas de prática, que se tornem mais ajustados e que encorajem a uma prática quotidiana, lúdica e social.
La importancia de mantenerse activo en la vejez
Authors: Aranda Lourdes , Buedo-Guirado Cristina , G. Dumitrache Cristina , Di Giusto Cristina
Published: January 2018

La participación es uno de los tres pilares del envejecimiento con éxito, junto con la salud y el alto funcionamiento cognitivo y físico. La importancia de la participación radica en su influencia sobre otras variables como el bienestar, la salud física y mental. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar el impacto de la participación sobre el bienestar, depresión y salud y determinar si existen diferencias según el tipo de actividad realizada. Para ello se utilizó una muestra de 139 personas de entre 55 y 94 años de la provincia de Granada (49 hombres y 90 mujeres). A los participantes se les preguntó sobre su participación en una lista de 16 actividades clasificadas como formativas, físicas o de manualidades, se les pidió que valoraran su salud subjetiva y se les aplicaron las Escalas de Bienestar Psicológico y la versión abreviada de la Escala de Depresión Geriátrica (GDS). Los resultados indican diferencias de género en la participación pero no en las otras variables analizadas. La participación total en actividades se relacionaba y fue predictor del bienestar psicológico, la salud subjetiva y la depresión pero se observaron diferencias según el tipo de actividad realizada. Las actividades formativas se relacionan con el crecimiento personal, las actividades manuales con el dominio del entorno y la salud y las actividades físicas con las relaciones personales, salud y depresión. Estos resultados resaltan la importancia de lograr una participación integral en diferentes actividades si queremos potenciar el envejecimiento exitoso de las personas mayores.
Supremacía de la emoción sobre la cognición en el envejecimiento
Authors: Álvarez-Merino Paula , Requena Carmen
Published: January 2018

El envejecimiento no es un descubrimiento del siglo XXI. Sin embargo, lo que sí es inédito es que el colectivo de personas mayores supere en número al resto de la población en muchos países del mundo. En los últimos años ha habido una proliferación de estudios empíricos acerca del envejecimiento, la cognición, emoción y su interacción. En el momento actual, un creciente número de investigaciones muestran que las emociones se mantienen intactas en la vejez contribuyendo a mejorar el rendimiento en tareas cognitivas. Esta investigación ofrece una visión global de los aspectos que regulan las emociones en la función cognitiva de las personas mayores.
Toma de decisiones y aspectos emocionales en la vejez
Authors: Requena Penélope , Requena Carmen , Álvarez-Merino Paula , Plaza-Carmona María
Published: January 2018

En la toma de decisiones no solo están implicados procesos cognitivos como la función ejecutiva y la memoria sino que también intervienen procesos emocionales. En esta investigación se delimitan los aspectos emocionales implicados en la toma de decisiones de personas mayores. En particular, se describe la localización de fuentes del proceso emocional, el marcador somático, la emoción razonada, la intuición y un modelo de evaluación emocional de toma de decisiones. Los contenidos abordados se basan en la teoría emocional de Damasio.
El modelo de atención centrado en la persona, aplicado en un centro de día geriátrico para la mejora en las actividades de la vida diaria y habilidades sociales
Authors: Gutiérrez Martínez Raquel , González-Bernal Jerónimo , González-Santos Josefa , Sánchez Iglesias Ana I
Published: January 2018

La experiencia es realizada en dos centros de día geriátricos (uno como grupo control y otro experimental), dirigidos por dos terapeutas ocupacionales, y con cuidadores fijos en cada uno de ellos, ubicados en la Residencia para Mayores Los Royales. Tras realizar una valoración previa a los residentes (Cognitiva, físico, funcional, habilidades de la vida cotidiana y afectiva) y conociendo sus habilidades sociales y valoración propia del envejecimiento de manera individualizada, se instruye a las cuidadoras del grupo experimental que permitan desarrollar un plan de atención centrado en la persona para potenciar las habilidades y el poder de autonomía personal y para favorecer el mantenimiento o mejoría de las habilidades en el residente.Resultados: La investigación se realiza durante tres semanas, con evaluación pretest y postest, y se realiza un análisis estadístico con pruebas no paramétricas en donde se observa la eficacia del mismo en diferentes áreas del usuario.
Intervención física o cognitiva para la mejora de la memoria semántica en personas mayores activas: un estudio piloto
Authors: Bonete López Beatriz , Sitges Maciá Esther
Published: January 2018

La memoria semántica es un tipo de memoria a largo plazo que permite acceder a recuerdos de significados de los conceptos, a la comprensión de dichos recuerdos y a la disposición de otro tipo de conocimiento que se basa en ideas y conocimientos generales. Desde su conceptualización se afirmaba que, con el paso de los años, este tipo de memoria no sufría deterioro, sin embargo, estudios recientes afirman que pueden existir disminuciones asociadas al envejecimiento en algunas tareas relacionadas con este tipo de memoria. Nuestro objetivo es comprobar si la memoria semántica aumenta ejercitándola de manera específica con ejercicio físico o con tareas de estimulación cognitiva. Se ha diseñado un estudio cuasi experimental con medida pretest y postest en dos tiempos. Los grupos experimentales están conformados por los asistentes a los talleres de Neurogym y Fisiogym del programa Actíva-te con SABIEX y el grupo control se encuentra formado por alumnos de las Aulas Universitarias de la Experiencia de la Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche. En total la muestra son 36 sujetos. Como instrumento para evaluar el rendimiento semántico se utilizó la prueba Fototest de Carnero y Montoro (2004), antes y después de recibir 8 sesiones de cada actividad. Los resultados indican que con la estimulación cognitiva se encuentran resultados significativos de mejora, seguidos de las mejoras producidas por el ejercicio físico, frente a los sujetos que no realizan ningún taller. Este trabajo aporta datos en relación a la controversia de qué ocurre con la memoria semántica en el envejecimiento, como se ha podido evidenciar la memoria semántica es susceptible de verse aumentada mediante ejercicio físico o mediante estimulación cognitiva.
Beneficios psicológicos de la práctica deportiva entre mayores vs intergeneracional
Authors: Escolar-Llamazares María del Camino , De la Torre Cruz Tamara , Luis Rico Isabel , Palmero Cámara Carmen , Jiménez Eguizábal Alfredo
Published: January 2018

Son incuestionables los beneficios a nivel psicológico de la práctica regular de actividad físicodeportiva en personas mayores, de igual modo, los programas intergeneracionales fomentan su bienestar psicológico. En este sentido algunos autores señalan la necesidad de investigar sobre los beneficios de la práctica físico-deportiva en un formato intergeneracional. El objetivo de este trabajo ha sido conocer el impacto que la práctica deportiva tiene en la autoestima, autoeficacia, depresión y bienestar psicológico de las personas mayores y si el formato intergeneracional aporta beneficios diferenciales a nivel emocional. Para ello, se ha llevado a cabo una revisión sistemática analizando las investigaciones que abordan esta temática desde el año 2000 hasta la actualidad. Las Bases de Datos consultadas han sido Scopus, WOS, CSIC y Dialnet. Se han analizado doce artículos científicos. Los resultados permiten comprobar como el deporte o ejercicio físico adaptado a personas mayores mejora su autoestima, autoconcepto, los indicadores de depresión y en general su bienestar subjetivo. De la misma forma, la práctica deportiva intergeneracional aumenta el bienestar emocional de los mayores. Si bien, en este último caso los estudios son escasos y se demanda investigación sobre la eficacia diferencial de los programas deportivos plateados entre iguales o en un formato intergeneracional.
Identificação dos determinantes do envelhecimento ativo na população idosa de Castelo Branco
Authors: Leitão Maia Carlos Manuel
Published: January 2018

Conciliar a longevidade com uma vida autónoma e independente constitui um importante objetivo ligado ao envelhecimento da população. Isso mesmo foi assumido pela OMS (2002) ao considerar o envelhecimento ativo como o principal objetivo das políticas direcionadas para os idosos.Partindo do conceito de envelhecimento ativo (EA) utilizado pela OMS foi analisada a funcionalidade das pessoas idosas, a sua relação com os determinantes do envelhecimento ativo e construído um modelo de envelhecimento ativo para uma amostra de idosos residentes na comunidade.Métodos: foram entrevistadas 306 pessoas idosas residentes na comunidade, através de um protocolo de avaliação, para analisar os determinantes do envelhecimento ativo. Resultados: o modelo de Envelhecimento Ativo para a população do distrito de Castelo Branco, é constituído por 6 fatores: componente psicológica, saúde subjetiva, relações familiares, funcionalidade, satisfação com os serviços e relações com amigos, explicando 65,9% da variância total: Conclusão: a maioria dos elementos revela um elevado grau de funcionalidade, o que traduz a independência na realização de grande parte das atividades da vida diária. Apresentam maior nível de dependência, em todas as componentes, os indivíduos mais idosos. A principal componente do modelo de envelhecimento ativo é a componente psicológica, explicando 30,9% da variância total.
Validez concurrente de la escala EHPAP adaptada a población preescolar española de Inteligencia media y con necesidades educativas de apoyo específico
Authors: Robles-Bello María Auxiliadora
Published: January 2018

Con una muestra de 127 niños en edad preescolar de Inteligencia media y con dificultades y con Síndrome de Down, se ha realizado un estudio correlacional con el objetivo de determinar la validez concurrente de la escala EHPAP que fue adaptada al castellano y validada con población española. Este instrumento ha demostrado tener una buena validez concurrente con el tipo de población utilizada ya que encontramos correlaciones positivas y significativas entre las diferentes subescalas y las medidas criterio seleccionadas.
Educación financiera: una aproximación teórica desde la percepción, conocimiento, habilidad, y uso y aplicación de los instrumentos financieros
Authors: Ramos Hernández Jésica Josefina
Published: January 2018

La educación financiera de un país es un elemento crucial para el desarrollo económico, tanto a nivel nacional como de manera individual e incluso puede contribuir a una mayor liquidez de los mercados financieros. El propósito del presente ensayo es identificar los elementos que han sido considerados para la medición de la educación financiera en las diferentes propuestas teóricas, así como las investigaciones empíricas más relevantes realizadas sobre este tema. Definir el concepto de educación financiera y analizar la forma en que se mide es fundamental para evaluar el impacto que tiene en las decisiones financieras y por tanto, en la inclusión financiera de la población. En este trabajo la educación financiera se considera desde cuatro dimensiones distintas: percepción, conocimiento, habilidad, uso y aplicación; asimismo, se consideran siete tópicos financieros que han sido utilizados en investigaciones empíricas para evaluar el nivel de educación financiera de las personas: planeación para el retiro, inflación, aritmética, seguros, crédito, ahorro e inversión, diversificación de riesgo. Al final se presenta una reflexión sobre la importancia del estudio de la educación financiera en el campo académico y social.
Twenty Years of Constitutional Court Judgments: What Lessons are there about Sentencing?
Authors: Terblanche Stephan S
Published: January 2018

This contribution considers the Constitutional Court’s judgments about aspects of sentencing over the last 20 years, since its establishment. The article starts with an overview of relevant judgments, before attending in more detail to judgments on the minimum sentences legislation and on sentencing when it affects children. On this foundation the article then discusses the human rights that are affected by the imposition of sentences on offenders, notable the right not to be punished in a cruel, inhuman or degrading way, and the right to dignity. It points out various aspects of the law that need further clarification. The article ends with a consideration of a possible next chapter in sentencing law and submits that this is most likely in connection with minimum sentences.
South Africa's Debut into Broadcasting Criminal Trials – The Legal Arguments in Televising the Oscar Pistorius Trail
Authors: James Alison Amanda
Published: January 2018

The televising and/or any other form of broadcasting of judicial hearings and of criminal trials in particular is a controversial topic that has not only provoked debate and been argued about by academics, the media and the public for years, but continues to be argued about with few signs of abatement. Until recently South Africa had largely escaped becoming embroiled in this provocative topic, as the live broadcasting of criminal trials from South African courtrooms did not occur. The situation has changed, though, following the recent live televising of a full criminal trial – namely, the trial of South African Para-Olympic champion Oscar Pistorius. Given that this trial signalled South Africa's debut into the world of the live televising of criminal trial proceedings, the question is asked why exactly South Africa ventured into this contentious legal territory.It must be emphasised that the intention of this contribution is solely to explore the court's consideration of the constitutional mandates and rights that were contained in both the application and the opposing arguments pertaining to the live broadcast the trial of Oscar Pistorius. This note will not attempt to examine or even approach the far greater question of whether criminal trials should be televised or not, a topic better left to future research.
Change to a Skills-Based LLB Curriculum: A Qualitative Study of Participants in a Family Law Course
Authors: Colgan Desia , Domingo Wesahl
Published: January 2018

The transformation of educational institutions in South Africa led to institutions of higher learning rethinking their role in the new democratic era. This changed context called for wide-ranging curriculum reform within law schools and faculties. Curriculum changes were also impacted by the call from the profession to address the skills deficit of graduates, who were seen as lacking basic skills such as researching, reading and writing. The University of the Witwatersrand's School of Law responded by making extensive changes to its existing curriculum during the period 2009-2012. This research sets out to examine the change to a skills-based LLB curriculum through the lens of the family law course implemented in 2012. The basis of the research is the argument that any educational change or reform should look beyond institutional change. It should also look at what has changed in practice with respect to the experiences of the individuals involved, at a personal level. This study focuses on the process of change, within the course as well as on an understanding of the phenomenology of change ― how people in the family law course actually experience the change, in distinction from how the change was intended. The study adopted a mixed methods approach with a primarily qualitative focus, and was interested in understanding how the individuals affected were interpreting their experiences within the course. Through the use of questionnaires, interviews and focus groups the study revealed that for effective change the initiators need to understand the nature of change and acknowledge the views of all participants. This calls for the generation of shared meaning. The isolated tale of success of the family law course told in this study is not an indication that all of the courses impacted by change were successful. This study focuses on a single course, but it is the start of developing a deeper understanding of the process of change within a law school and to a law curriculum.
The Role of the Labour Court in Collective Bargaining: Altering the Protected Status of Strikes on Grounds of Violence in National Union of Food Beverage Wine Spirits & Allied Workers v Universal Product Network (Pty) Ltd (2016) 37 ILJ 476 (LC)
Authors: Van Eck Stefan , Kujinga Tungamirai
Published: January 2018

This note explores the powers of the Labour Court as envisaged in the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 (LRA), where a protected strike disintegrates into violent riotous conduct. The legal status of protected strikes raises important questions of law, namely: whether the Labour Court has the authority to alter the legal status of a strike; the autonomy of collective bargaining; and the legal test which the Labour Court should apply when intervening. The court in National Union of Food Beverage Wine Spirits & Allied Workers v Universal Product Network (Pty) Ltd 2016 37 ILJ 476 (LC) dealt with this precise problem. There can be no doubt that South Africa is plagued by widespread strike violence which often occur during protected strikes. However, this contribution poses the question whether the Labour Court has not overstepped its mandated jurisdiction and it questions whether such alterations of the status of strikes would have a positive effect on the institution of collective bargaining.
Images of Roof Tiles of Old Thailand
Authors:   National Museum of Ukrainian Pottery in Opishne, Rakhno Kostiantyn
Published: January 2018

The article deals with the sculptural roof tiles, roof finials, and antefixes of old Thailand. Mythological images have their origins in theancient Hindu and Buddhist tradition, having received a specific Thai aspect. A sea-creature of the Hindu culture, makara, was very popular. It appears as the vahana (vehicle) of the river goddess Ganga and of the sea god Varuna and the insignia of the love god Kamadeva.Due to the iconography of Hinduism and Buddhism images of the mythological makara were widely spread throughout South Asia and Southeast Asia. Its prototypes were crocodiles and river dolphins. Hamsa, or hon, was an aquatic bird of passage, a goose, which served as the vahana for the Supreme God Brahnma and has been adopted as the symbol of the Mon people. The Mon tradition was a major source of influence on the culture of Thailand. The widespread motif of medieval Thai antefixes is Buddha who has attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. It was a powerful Buddhist symbol of protection. Nāgas, a group of deities in Hindu and Buddhist mythology, were among the images of roof tiles and finials too. They took the form of gigantic snakes – specifically, the king cobras. These serpent deities, the most faithful worshippers of the Buddha, were regarded as the guardians of the Buddhist relics and temples. They were connected with the water element. We argue that there was a semantic similarity between these images and the ancient Mediterranean ones as both performed an apotropaic function as the guards of the roof.
The Hunt Scenes Of The Irish High Crosses And The Iconography Of The Continental Celtic Stag Deity
Authors:   University of Ulster, University of Tubingen, Fomin Maxim
Published: January 2018

The article is dedicated to the iconographic depictions of the hunt found on the Irish High crosses, in particular, the Banagher cross-shaft (Co. Offaly) and the Bealin High Cross (Co. Westmeath) involving a religious figure holding a crozier and a trapped stag. The author looks at further iconographic and literary evidence that can provide the basis of these scenes. Iconography and prosopography of the early Anatolian, Gallo-Roman and Celtic deities are also compared with the early Irish data from a typological religious perspective.
Isaak Brodsky And Ivan Driapachenko: The Story Of One Portrait
Authors: Miachkova Tetyana
Published: January 2018

The article provides information about the Ukrainian artist Ivan Driapachenko’s portrait made by Isaak Brodsky in 1906. The drawing was sold at the Neumeister Auction (Germany) in 2013. The author suggests that the portrait belongs to those cultural values which were moved illegally from the territory of Ukraine during the World War II. Some of the Driapahenko’s works could still remain in Germany or other countries of Western Europe.
PENGARUH MODAL SOSIAL DAN SOSIAL EKONOMI TERHADAP NILAI VALUASI EKONOMI AIR BERSIH DI KOTA SURABAYA
Authors: Prihantono Gigih
Published: January 2018

ABSTRACT Several factors have been identified as determinants of willingness to pay (WTP), including socioeconomic and environmental elements. The present article aims to investigate the influence of individual social capital on willingness to pay for environmental goods. In particular, through an empirical study, a multi-dimensional measurement of social capital is conducted and its influence on WTP for water quality improvement is explored. According to the results of the survey it is observed that social capital is a significant explanatory parameter of WTP
Relationship between hand grip strength and peak VO2 in community‐dwelling elderly outpatients
Authors: Sugie Masamitsu , Harada Kazumasa , Takahashi Tetsuya , Nara Marina , Ishikawa Joji , Tanaka Jun , Koyama Teruyuki , Fujimoto Hajime , Obuchi Shuichi , Kyo Shunei , Ito Hideki
Published: January 2018

Background

Hand grip strength and peak oxygen uptake (VO2) are important components of frailty. However, the relationship between these two variables among community‐dwelling elderly people is still unclear. The present study aimed to investigate this relationship.

Methods

Participants were 190 Japanese community‐dwelling elderly outpatients (61 men and 129 women, mean age 78.0 years). Hand grip strength of participants' was measured using a Smedley‐type hand dynamometer. Peak VO2 levels were assessed with a cardiopulmonary exercise test. Skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) and usual walking speed were assessed physiologically and physically. Sample size was calculated using G*Power 3.1.9.2.

Results

There were significant correlations between hand grip strength and age (r = −0.22), peak VO2 (r = 0.40), SMI (r = 0.51), and usual walking speed (r = 0.29). There were significant differences in age, peak VO2 and SMI after participants were divided into normal and low hand grip strength groups according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia threshold, whether both sexes were combined or considered separately. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that peak VO2, SMI and age were independent determinants of hand grip strength after adjusting for potential confounders (Exp(B) = 0.871; 0.475; 1.065). Longitudinal analysis after 6 months of exercise training showed the percentage of change in hand grip strength and peak VO2 were correlated positively (r = 0.22) for 92 participants.

Conclusion

Peak VO2 is independently associated with hand grip strength among community‐dwelling elderly outpatients.
Use of DNA-aptamers for enrichment of low abundant proteins in cellular extracts for quntitative detection by selected reaction monitoring
Authors: Ptitsyn K.G. , Novikova S.E. , Kiseleva Y.Y. , Moysa A.A. , Kurbatov L.K. , Farafonova T.E. , Radko S.P. , Zgoda V.G. , Archakov A.I.
Published: January 2018

The relationship between the amount of a target protein in a complex biological sample and its amount measured by selected reaction monitoring (SRM) mass spectrometry upon the affinity enrichment of target protein with aptamers immobilized on a solid phase was studied. Human thrombin added in known concentrations to cellular extracts derived from bacterial cells was used as model target protein. It has been demonstrated that the affinity enrichment of thrombin in cellular extracts by means of the thrombin-binding aptamer immobilized on the surface of magnetic microbeads results in an approximately 10-fold increase of the concentration of target protein and a 100-fold decrease of the low limit of a target protein concentration range where its quantitative detection by SRM is possible without an interference from other peptides present in a tryptic digest.
Perceived contributory factors to medication administration errors (MAEs) and barriers to self-reporting among nurses working in paediatric units of selected referral hospitals in Rwanda
Authors: Nkurunziza Aimable , Chironda Geldine , Mukeshimana Madeleine
Published: January 2018

Background: Medication administration errors (MAEs) occur in health care settings however, the types, contributing factors to MAEs and barriers to reporting are not well studied in Rwandan context.Methods: Quantitative approach was adopted. Descriptive cross-sectional design was used. A convenience sampling was used to select 151 nurses working in the paediatric units of the selected teaching hospitals in Rwanda. Pre-tested questionnaire for validity and reliability was used to collect data. Data was coded and entered into SPSS version 21. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics (Chi-square test) were used to analyze data.Results: Approximately 33.6% of the participants were able to identify one type, 17.4 % two, 18.1% three, 17.4% four types, 10.7% six types and only 2.7% identified all the seven MAEs. Identified main contributory factor to MAEs was the heavy workload it like this-Identified main contributory factor to MAEs was the heavy workload [82 (55%)]. The main barrier to self-reporting was fear to be blamed if something happens to the patient as a result of the medication administration error (88 (59.1%)). All the socio demographic were associated with the types of MAEs committed by participants. In addition, the experience, marital status and job position of the participants were significantly associated with factors contributing to MAEs (p= .001, p=.000 and p= .044) respectively whereas all the socio demographic were significantly associated with barriers to self reporting.Conclusions: Factors contributing to MAEs were found in both parties and barriers to self-reporting were identified to be the fear reasons and administrative reasons. Therefore, the heavy workload should be addressed to reduce MAEs and a non-punitive environment is imperative in encouraging self-reporting of MAEs.
Estimation of bone mineral density among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in western Odisha
Authors: Thakur Atanu Kumar
Published: January 2018

Background: Diabetes Mellitus is one of the most common chronic non-communicable diseases in the world. The relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and bone mineral density (BMD) has been controversial. Early identification of reduction in bone mass in a diabetic patient may be helpful in preventing the bone loss and future fracture risks. Objective: The aim is to study the effect of T2DM on BMD among patients in western Odisha.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 120 patients between 40 and 65 years of age which included 60 diabetic and 60 nondiabetic subjects. BMD was measured using qualitative ultrasound and the data were compared among age-matched subjects of both the groups. Statistical analysis was performed using unpaired Student's t-test and test of equality of proportions.Results: No significant difference was observed in bone density of both the groups. On further analyzing the data, incidence of osteoporosis was higher among diabetic subjects, whereas incidence of osteopenia was higher among nondiabetic subjects.Conclusions: Although significant difference in bone mineral density was not observed in both the groups, the incidence of osteoporosis was higher among type 2 diabetics. Hence, all type 2 diabetics should be evaluated for the risk of osteoporosis and should be offered appropriate preventive measures.
A comparative study of hematological profile on presentation in confirmed cases of malaria, dengue and leptospirosis
Authors: Vaidya Meghna Sachin , Kawale Juhi Balwant , Maheshkar Parag Rajkumar , Kamble Aniket Namdev
Published: January 2018

Background: Malaria, leptospirosis and dengue fever are the predominant monsoon related illnesses in the Indian subcontinent causing considerable mortality and morbidity. These have similar clinical profile and derangement in one or more haematological parameters. We have studied the haematological profile at presentation to differentiate one infection from the other as it presents a significant diagnostic challenge to the treating physician.Methods: A prospective observational study of haematological profile in a total of 336 patients of malaria (plasmodium falciparum, plasmodium vivax and mixed malaria), dengue and leptospirosis were conducted over a period of 1 year in a tertiary care centre in western Maharashtra.Results: In the age group of 20-40 years all the infectious subgroups were observed to have the maximum number of patients with a male preponderance. Maximum frequency of Haemoglobin in leptospirosis was 7-10gm%. Maximum mortality in mixed malaria and leptospirosis was seen with haemoglobin levels <7gm%. In P. vivax malaria, P. falciparum malaria and dengue mortality was not seen in patients with Hb<7gm%.Conclusions: Leucocytosis is most commonly seen in leptospirosis. Patients presenting with leucopenia are most likely to have P. vivax malaria. Mixed malaria was most likely to have thrombocytopenia on presentation. Haemoglobin of <7gm% in leptospirosis and mixed malaria probably predicts a poor outcome.
Knowledge and factors affecting initiation of breast feeding in post-natal mothers in a tertiary care center
Authors: Gavhane Sunil , Yadav Sudha , Uday Kanumala , Kale Anjali , Sirohi Aniket , Yadav Pawan , Jadhao Pranoti
Published: January 2018

Background: The study was planned to evaluate awareness of breast feeding among mother, institutional quality indicators of early breast feeding. The objective was to know factors causing delay in breast feeding initiation, to assess knowledge, cultural practices, and quality indicators of hospital regarding breast feeding initiative.Methods: The observational study was conducted over a period of 3months from July 2017-Sept 2017 in a tertiary care centre of India. 118 postnatal mothers were interviewed for time of first breast feeding (dependent variable or outcome), and independent variables age, education , religion, parity, occupation of mother, antenatal visits, prelacteal feeds, customs of not breast feeding, duration of labour, mode of delivery, sedation, pain after delivery, baby over mother abdomen after birth, institutional quality indicators-knowledge of breast feeding given by doctor /nurses, relatives, self reading, mothers with correct attachment and position of baby during breast feeding and separation of mother and baby post delivery.Results: Mean time of initiation of breast feeding was 1340.262min after birth. Prelacteal feeds, lack of education, cesarean deliveries, parity of mother, sedation, anesthesia during cesarean and lack of counselling by staff nurses were found to have early increased time of initiation of breast feeding.Conclusions: Great lacuna in knowledge, attitude and practice of early breast feeding of mother.
Clinical correlates of first episode schizophrenia-a comparative study
Authors: M. Kathir , K. Pugazhendhi , J. Ravishankar
Published: January 2018

Background: Schizophrenia is a major mental disorder which has to be assessed early and managed actively even though long term functional outcome remains relatively poor. The aim of the study is to analyze negative symptoms, suicidal risk and substance use in first episode schizophrenics in comparison with multi-episode schizophrenics.Methods: 30 patients with drug naive first episode schizophrenia and 30 patients with multi episode schizophrenia, who attended the outpatient department of Psychiatry, Government Stanley Medical College, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India were studied to compare predisposing factors and spectrum of symptoms for Schizophrenia for a period of one year (January 2010-December 2010). Psychiatric questionnaire by Michael C. Hilton, DAST by Harvey A. Skinner, AUDIT by WHO, Suicide risk scale by National Health and Medical Research Council, PANSS by SR Kay were used to assess patients.Results: Unemployment and family history of suicide attempts were observed more in drug naive first episode schizophrenics. 90% of these patients had completed their primary education while 47% of multi-episode schizophrenics were illiterates. Positive symptoms (delusions, hallucinatory behaviour and suspiciousness) and negative symptoms (blunted affect, emotional withdrawal and social withdrawal) were observed more in first episode schizophrenics while PANSS, DAST, AUDIT scores did not find any differences between both the groups.Conclusions: In our study, the first episode schizophrenia patients were more educated, more unemployed and had more family history of suicide, elevated sub score of positive symptoms as measured by PANSS. Relative assessment of violence and serious behavior problems that are related to positive symptoms must be done and managed with anti psychotics.
A comparative study of conjunctival autograft with fibrin glue or glueless sutureless conjunctival autograft after pterygium surgery
Authors: Jain Kalpna , Manoher J. M.
Published: January 2018

Background: Conjunctival autografting after Pterygium excision can be done by fibrin glue or sutures but use of foreign material can cause discomfort and infection. Fibrin glue may cause hypersensitivity reaction and also have risk of viral transmission. To avoid these conjuctival autograft can be applied without suture or glue. Patient’s own blood act as a bioadhesive.Methods: We done a prospective randomized control study of 70 patients, 35 patients allocated in each group. Group A had conjunctival autograft with fibrin glue while group B had conjunctival autografting without glue or sutures.Results: In group A 31 and group B 26 patients had well placed conjunctival autograft while 4 in group A and 9 patients in group B had either displaced or dislodged graft. The results were statistically insignificant with P value of 0.219 and No complication was reported in any patient except recurrence. The 5 patients in group A and 6 in group B had recurrence which is not statistically significant.Conclusions: Graft stability is more with fibrin glue as compare to glueless and sutureless conjunctival autografting but using patients own blood as bioadhesive is safer and cost effective. The rate of recurrence is similar in both the groups.
Evaluation of results of three and four-part fracture dislocations of proximal humerus in young adults using philos (proximal humerus internal locking system)
Authors: Thakur Amit , Muzzafar Khalid , Charak Sumeet Singh , Dev Bias , Ghani Abdul
Published: January 2018

Background: The fractures of proximal humerus constitute about 5% of fractures in adults third in number to fracture colles and hip usually in elderly patients due to a low energy trauma. In young patients the fractures are mostly due to high energy trauma and as such are associate with other soft tissue injuries. A sub group of young patients have a three or four fracture dislocation of shoulder joint. The aim of this study was to find the results of fixation by PHILOS in these young patients.Methods: This study was done in a teritiary referral centre over a period of about 1 year. All patients were operated within three weeks. Open fractures, patients with age more than 50 years were excluded from the study. All patients underwent open reduction and fixation using commercially available PHILOS. A minimum of 6 months follows up was essential for inclusion into the study. Final functional results were evaluated by Constant Murley scoring.Results: 14 patients were included in the study. The average age of patients was 38.42years. All fractures united. We had 71.4% excellent or good results. The complications noted were shoulder stiffness in 3, inadequate post op reduction, rotator cuff insufficiency, head necrosis, secondary osteo arthritis 1 each.Conclusions: Despite the relatively high rate of complications encountered in the management of these complicated high-energy fractures, the PHILOS plating system could be considered an adequate management of these patients.
Bronchoscopic findings of flexible bronchoscopy: a one-year retrospective study in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Antony Philips , Deshmukh Hafiz
Published: January 2018

Background: Since the introduction of the first flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope by Shigeto Ikeda in 1966, fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) has been a valuable tool in the diagnosis of pulmonary diseases. Therefore, the aim of this study is to report our one-year experience with the yield of flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy at MGM Medical College and Hospital, a tertiary hospital in Maharashtra.Methods: A retrospective study of fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) was performed at MGM Medical College and Hospital, Aurangabad, Maharashtra during the period 2015-2016. Bronchoscopy was performed and collection of bronchial washing, bronchial brushing, bronchial biopsy and transbronchial needle aspiration was done.Results: Out of 192 patients, 140 were males and 52 were females. Majority of them were in age group 50-59 years. Main indication was pulmonary tuberculosis. Bronchial washings were done in 168 cases and brushing in 56 cases and common location for both was right upper lobe; bronchial biopsy was done in 90 cases with commonest location left main bronchus. Transbronchial needle aspiration was done in 4 cases, active bleed was seen in 6 cases and purulent discharge was seen in 24 cases. Bronchoscopic finding in majority of patients was normal tracheobronchial tree.Conclusions: The optimal use of conventional bronchoscopy and its techniques in the hands of experienced respiratory interventionists, with the adherence of the international guidelines for performing these techniques will improve the diagnostic outcomes of those patients with the least morbidity and mortality, employing better therapeutic strategies, and thus improving the overall management of those patients.
Utility of urinary gram stain as a diagnostic method for urinary tract infection
Authors: Anchinmane Vyankatesh T. , Preet Kamal , Sankhe Shilpa
Published: January 2018

Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common infections in humans. Timely diagnosis and treatment are necessary to reduce the complications from UTI. Urine culture is still the gold standard diagnostic test for UTI, however it is costly and time consuming. The present study was conducted to compare the utility of urinary gram stain, microscopy of centrifuged urine sample and urine culture for the diagnosis of UTI.Methods: 100 urine samples were processed for gram stain, culture and microscopy. Urinary gram stain findings were correlated with microscopy and culture results. Using urine culture as gold standard, the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of urinary gram stain were assessed for the diagnosis of UTI.Results: The accuracy of urinary gram stain for detection of UTI was 97%.Conclusions: Urinary gram stain is a reliable diagnostic test for early detection of UTI.
Comparative study of serum ferritin and vitamin D in thalassemia patients with healthy controls
Authors: Gombar Shweta , Parihar Kiran , Choudhary Mamta
Published: January 2018

Background: Thalassemia is the most common genetic disorder in humans; they are encountered among all ethnic groups and in almost every country around the world. Mostly occur in the regions surrounding the Mediterranean sea, hence the name. These are a group of hereditary haemolytic disorders characterized by impairment in the synthesis of globin chains of Hb. The present study aimed to find out the serum ferritin and vitamin D level in thalassemic children in the tertiary care hospital in Bikaner, western Rajasthan, India.Methods: In this study 50 (27 male and 23 female) adult skulls were investigated to determine the type of asterion, its distance from important bony landmarks and also the nearby venous sinuses were measured.Results: Level of serum ferritin was significantly high and vitamin D was significantly low (p-value<0.0001 for both) in thalassemic children.Conclusions: In this study the role of serum ferritin and vitamin D has been explored. The extremely high level of ferritin was found due to the regular blood transfusion and consequent iron overload and low vitamin D was found due to impairment in liver functions among thalassemic children.