bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Testing and Variety Identification of Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) in Sri Lanka Using Microsatellite Markers
Authors: Lalith Perera
Published: April 2020

Currently, there is no reliable method for confirmation of the identity of coconut cultivars and the legitimacy of coconut hybrids. This makes serious problems in coconut breeding and seed production as the identity of coconut cultivars/hybrids can only be approximated at the very late stages of the growth based on reproductive traits owing to long juvenile period and the perennial nature of coconut. A microsatellite (SSR) marker based approach was used to develop an identification method for coconut varieties; Sri Lanka Tall, Sri Lanka Green Dwarf and Sri Lanka Yellow Dwarf, the key parents in the breeding programmes and tall x dwarf hybrids among them, using 18 coconut specific SSR primers. The validity of using yellow colour petiole as a phenotypic marker for the identification of dwarf yellow was also investigated. Two SSR primers, namely CAC20 and CNZ6 have exhibited the potential for distinguishing coconut varieties used as parents in the breeding programme and for confirming hybridity. It was revealed that yellow colour petiole is not a reliable marker for identification of dwarf yellow variety.
Value Added Products from Dikiri Coconuts: Preparation, Compositional and Sensory Qualities
Authors: K.D.P.P. Gunathilake
Published: April 2020

A study was conducted to evaluate Sri Lanka’s dikiri coconut for toffees, Dikiri spread and ice cream. The prepared products were tested for their physico-chemical and sensory properties. Initial trials were done in Sri Lanka to identify the best Dikiri kernel/sugar ratio for toffees, showing that a 1:1 ratio gave acceptable quality. Prepared Dikiri spread was compared with margarine-based bread spread. Results revealed that the product was more acceptable in terms of taste and overall acceptability compared with the margarine-spread. The Dikiri spread comprised 7.95% minerals, 11.35% crude fat, 2.68% crude protein, 4.95% crude fiber and 73.07% carbohydrate on dry weight basis. Dikiri-added ice cream was acceptable and comparable with regular dairy ice cream. Composition of the Dikiri-added ice cream conforms to Sri Lanka Standards.
Opportunity to Sustain Coconut Ecosystem Services through Recycling of the Palm Leaf Litter as Vermicompost: Indian Scenario (A Technology/ Research Note)
Authors: Murali Gopal
Published: April 2020

Coconut (Cocos nucifera) is one of the important tropical oilseed crops grown in more than 80 countries. It is called the ‘Tree of Life’ because every part of the palm finds one or other use in everyday life. India is one of the leading coconut producing countries in the world and many millions of Indians are dependent on this crop for their livelihood.

Many research experiments are in progress to increase the yield of this crop as well as develop post-harvest products that will improve the socio-economic status of the farmers who cultivate it. The coconut cropping system, being unique, offers a wide range of ecosystem services which has not been studied in much detail. A recent paper from Philippines, however, throws some light on the importance of ecosystem services offered by coconut types.

In this article we attempt to enunciate the ecosystem services provided by coconut in Indian scenario and the possibility of sustaining it through the recycling of coconut leaf litter as vermicompost.
Development of Technology and Popularization of Biological Control Agents for Integrated Management of Coconut Leaf Rot Disease*
Authors: N. Srinivasan
Published: April 2020

Coconut is an important social crop of livelihood concern for millions of small- medium farmers. Leaf rot disease (due to a fungal complex-Colletotrichum gloeosoprioides, Exserohilum rostratum and Fusarium solani as major pathogens), in association with root (wilt), is a major problem of coconut in southern districts of Kerala besides certain districts in Tamil Nadu etc. Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI) has evolved biological control technology for integrated management of leaf rot to improve the health of disease affected palms. Application of biocontrol agents in the disease affected areas was aimed for creation of widespread awareness on eco-friendly disease management, crop sustenance and in realizing human resource potential. Effective strains of biocontrol agents-Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Trichoderma viride-were evolved, their multiplications in media including coconut water standardized and the antagonists’ processed into bioformulations (totally 2000 Kg. talc formulations evolved distributed/utilized). Coconut gardens and rural groups in various districts of southern Kerala (Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam and Thrissur), various blocks in Theni district besides specified blocks in Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu could be selected. Through effective contacts with extension-developmental agencies, coconut Research & Development (R&D) meetings etc. reached out to rural people and implemented the technology of mass production-use of biological control agents, and knowledge imparted to rural people. Conducted trainings and allied programmes by on-campus trainings (396 beneficiaries), off-campus trainings (1854 beneficiaries), household/field contacts of rural people (689 beneficiaries) and other awareness programmes encompassing lectures, interfaces etc. (661 beneficiaries) and enlightened women, rural people, youths etc. representing various locations (totally 3600 beneficiaries in three years). Field demonstrations of disease management with biological control agents in coconut gardens (55 units) besides clusters-compact gardens (1850 coconut palms) were also done. Also, promotional materials were made available to various stakeholders. An innovative participatory programme implementation approach for technology transfer was the outcome of the work. Creation of widespread awareness, percolation of knowledge on biocontrol agents to women and other rural people could be visualized that would go a long way.
Gradient Outbreak of Coconut Slug Caterpillar, Macroplectra nararia Moore in East Coast of India
Authors: Rajan P.
Published: April 2020

Gradient outbreak of coconut slug caterpillar. Macroplectra nararia Moore (Limacodidae: Lepidoptera) in East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh during April-May 2009 is closely interlinked with rise in ambient temperature and humidity along the water bodies. This favoured large scale explosion of pest population leading to widespread damage in coconut plantations ranging from 90-95% in severely affected gardens, indicating the sporadic nature of the pest. Exacerbation by grey leaf blight fungus, Pestalotiopsis palmarum accelerated the damage causing rampant scorching of coconut leaflets in pest affected gardens. In the field, some caterpillars were found infected by entomopathogens. Light trapping is suggested as an effective monitoring tool and a feasible mechanical control strategy of the pest.
Optimum Physico-Chemical and Processing Parameters for the Preservation of King Coconut Water
Authors: K.D.P.P. Gunathilake
Published: April 2020

King coconut (Cocos nucifera var. aurantiaca) water is a natural, nutritious and healthy beverage. However, it is underutilized in terms of value addition with extended shelf life.  Therefore, an attempt was made to develop the physico-chemical and processing parameters for the value addition of King coconut water with extended shelf life. King coconut water was analyzed for sugar, minerals and vitamin C content based on reviewed methods. Studies were conducted to identify the optimum pH, total soluble solid (TSS), type of acidulant and pasteurization conditions based on sensory properties of the product using semi trained panelists. Processed King coconut water was packed in three different packages and stored at refrigerated (4°C) condition for two months. Changes in pH, TSS and titratable acidity were evaluated in two weeks intervals throughout the storage period. The results showed that optimum pH, TSS, type of acidulant and pasteurization conditions were 4.4, 9, malic acid and 70˚C/15 sec., respectively. The product was microbiologically (less than 50 CFU/ml) safe for consumption even after 8 weeks of storage. These storage studies revealed that the changes in pH, TSS and titratble acidity of King coconut water packed in three packaging materials had no significant difference (p<0.05) during refrigerated storage.
Synthesis of Nanocellulose from Coir Pith
Authors: Subha P.V  , Anita Das Rabindranath
Published: April 2020

Coir pith is lignocellulosic in nature and abundantly available by-product of the coir industry. It is a pollutant as it is resistant to biodegradation in the environment.  It is mainly composed of cellulose (28%), hemi cellulose (9.5%) and lignin (31%). In this study, cellulose was extracted from the coir pith, and treated generally for the production of nanocellulose. Cellulose is proved to be a versatile material due to its unique chemical structure, which provides a superior platform for several new biomaterials. Nanophase materials   are prepared from inorganic materials and hardly any are reported from natural products. When particles are made up to nano size their reactivity increases. FT-IR, TGA, XRD and SEM characterized the extracted cellulose and nanocellulose. The hydrolyzed nanocellulose was found to be the mixed crystalline forms of cellulose I and II. Conversion of this lignocelluloscic biomass to nanocellulose will lead to the preparation of new-nano composites materials for biomedical applications.
Quantitative Evaluation of the Production of Ligninolytic Enzymes- Lignin Peroxidase and Manganese Peroxidase by P. Sajor Caju During Coir Pith Composting
Authors: Radhakrishnan S
Published: April 2020

Coir is the natural hard fruit fibre extracted from the exocarp of the coconut. The fibre has over 40 percent lignin and is spun into yarn and rope. Coir is used globally for manufacturing floor coverings as home furnishing. The Coir Industry enjoys the status as the largest cottage industry in Kerala giving employment to over a million people, of which 80 percent constitute women. Coir pith is a biomass residue generated during the extraction of coir fibre from coconut husk. Coir pith produced during coir fibre extraction is of environmental concern as its dumping on shore line and leaching of its constituents alter water quality and aquatic life. Management of coir pith is a major problem with all coir industrialists. Hillocks of coir pith accumulate in the vicinities of coir fibre extraction units in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Orissa. These agricultural wastes have traditionally been disposed by burning which resulted in various environmental problems. Therefore, composting is an alternate way to dispose coir pith and is of critical importance. Ligninolytic enzyme production during coir pith composting by Pleurotus sajor caju has been studied in detail. Pleurotus sajor caju produces oxidative enzymes which degrade lignin in the presence of urea as nitrogen source. Substitution of urea with vegetative sources has resulted in the vigorous growth of the mushroom which leads to decreased lignin content and C: N ratio in the biodegraded coir pith. Combination of Azolla and Soya hulls as biological supplements was observed to be the best substitute for lignin peroxidase and manganese peroxidase production. Activity of manganese peroxidase and lignin peroxidase was maximum on the twentieth day of fermentation of coir pith. The level of enzyme activity during biological composting using vegetative sources was compared with the conventional process using urea. The enzyme profile exhibited variation with change in substrate and duration of decomposition. The colonization of Pleurotus sajor caju by its utilization leads to biochemical changes in coir pith converting it into an ideal plant nutrient.
Productivity and Profitability of Abaca Varieties/Hybrids (Musa textiles Nee) Under Mature Tall Coconuts in Davao City, Southern Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: M.N. Eroy
Published: April 2020

Two abaca varieties; Tangongon and Maguindanao, and two hybrids; Magino and Bongtang were grown under mature Laguna Tall coconuts spaced 9x9 m triangular in Bago Oshiro, Davao City from 2006-2010. The growth, yield and economic performance of these varieties/hybrids were evaluated to identify varieties/hybrids suitable as coconut intercrop and to show its suitability as coconut+abaca intercropping.

Magino, a cross between Maguindanao and Inosa, was the consistent highest yielder. It had good yield attributes like good suckering ability, taller and bigger plants contributing to high fiber yields and high economic returns i.e. NPV and BCR. Maguindanao variety and Bongtang hybrid had comparable performance with Magino hybrid.  Tangongon variety is the consistent lowest yielder with yield and yield attributes inferior to the rest of the plants tested affecting its profitability.

Crop Fertilizer Use Efficiency (CFE) using fiber yield as an index revealed that top yielding entries are more efficient in converting fertilizer inputs into economic yield as reflected by their high CFEs.

Abaca is a highly suitable intercrop for coconut and coconut areas could be used as expansion areas for growing the crop. Profitability of abaca farming under coconut is influenced by the variety used.  Some drawbacks in abaca farming and good practices are discussed.
Nanocellulose from Diseased Coconut Wood Biomass
Authors: Jayaraj A P  , Anita Das Ravindranath  , Sarma U S
Published: April 2020

Cellulose is the most widespread biopolymer on earth. In biosynthesis, cellulose polymers aggregate to form substructures, microfibrils, which in turn aggregate to form cellulose fibers. By applying effective methods these fibers can be disintegrated into cellulose substructures with micro- or nano-size dimensions. This article covers some aspects related to the sources of cellulose micro- and nanofibers and the most important methods for their isolation. One of these methods, acid hydrolysis, was experimentally used to obtain cellulose nano-fibers from diseased coconut wood biomass. They were studied by Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and Scanning electrom microscope (SEM).

         The  ‘Replanting and Rejuvenation of Coconut Gardens’ was the sponsored scheme of the Coconut Development Board with an objective to eliminate all disease- affected coconut palms in eight districts of  Kerala state in India. The main components of the scheme included cutting and removal of all old, unproductive and disease-hit palms followed by a replanting exercise. The present work was carried out under the Board sponsored project entitled “Diversified uses of diseased coconut wood”.
Performance of Coconut Hybrids in United Plantations Berhad and Commercial Production of Seed Nuts
Authors: Xaviar Arulandoo
Published: April 2020

United Plantations Berhad began its first coconut planting in 1912. Since then, it has been the responsibility of the breeding team in its research department to sustain a high standard of plant breeding techniques in the development of future planting materials aligned with the objectives of the company. The yield performance of Tall x Tall, Dwarf x Dwarf and Dwarf x Tall hybrids as well as salient points in the commercial production of hybrid seed nut is highlighted.

         Current plantings at UPB consist of older generation of MAWA+ with average yields of 30,000 nuts per hectare per year and newer generations of MATAG* with yields comparable to MAWA but with improved nut characteristics. Breeding strategies are now in place to produce hybrids (Dwarf x Tall) capable of out-performing the MATAG in terms of yield and nut characteristics with minimum yields per hectare of 40,000 nuts and eight tonnes copra.

         Amongst the Tall x Tall hybrids and pure lines of Tall, highest yields were achieved with Tagnanan followed by West African with yields of 24,190 and 23,514 nuts per hectare, respectively, adopting a planting density of 178 palms per hectare. The highest yielding Dwarf x Dwarf cross and self is the Aromatic Green (AGD) and CAMMA++, which provided a similar yield magnitude of 40,000 nuts per hectare planted at a density of 265 palms per hectare.  However, as they had lower copra yield as dry nut and lower water content as fresh nut, Dwarf x Dwarf was not the desired commercial planting material. Hence, the breeding programme emphasized in the creation of Dwarf x Tall hybrids aimed at exploiting the large nut size from the tall and high nut number from the dwarf. Amongst the hybrids evaluated in UPB, MATAG hybrid though with lower nut yields had 53.9% higher copra yields per hectare than both AGD and CAMMA making it at present the preferable choice for commercial planting. Newer hybrids are currently being evaluated which shows promise of similar nut yield but improved nut characteristics.

            The commercial seednut production field is confined to a block of 25 hectares and is operated by the Research Department with a maximum production capacity of 110,000 saleable hybrid seednuts (4 months old) germinated seednuts per year.  With escalation in costs of inputs and wages, the cost of seednut production has risen to RM30 per seednut in 2014. However, with good agricultural management practices complementing the superior hybrid planting materials, the production cost of a mature coconut from the plantations is relatively low, thus ensuring a sustained profitability of the coconut plantations in United Plantations Berhad.
Status of Coconut Farming and the Associated Challenges in Kenya
Authors: Pole F.N.  , B. Nguma  , N. Mohammed
Published: April 2020

Coconuts (Cocos nucifera) have been grown in Coastal Kenya for many centuries and are an integral part of the farming systems in the region. Over 80% of the coastal farm households derive their livelihoods either directly or indirectly from the coconut tree that is considered as both cash and a food crop. The coconut tree on the other hand has a tremendous potential of helping Kenya’s poor in the coastal region and the rest of the country due to its multi-purpose uses that can be strategically harnessed to generate employment and income, reduce edible oil imports and generate foreign exchange for the country. The tree population stands at 7.5 million palms. Nut production is however very low (a minimum of 30 nuts per tree per year) owing to a number of challenges that include high incidences of pests and diseases, poor agronomic practices, low quality planting materials and a narrow genetic base. In order to address the major challenge of coconut pests, a baseline survey was undertaken in the major coconut producing counties of coastal lowland Kenya, targeting the smallholder coconut farmers. A total 170 farmers were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. A literature review was also conducted to contextualize and benchmark findings of the survey. Results showed that the rhinoceros beetle was the major pest on coconut trees, causing damage of up to 80% of the palms. The Coreid bug (Pseudotheraptus wayi) and the Eriophyid mites (Aceria guerreronis) were the major nut destructive pests with a resultant nut loss of 30% and 40% respectively. The study stresses the need to address the challenges posed by pests and diseases on coconut by adopting the Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPDM) practices.
Characterisation of Silver Deposited Coir Fibers by Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Melvi Chandy  , K. Shreekrishna Kumar
Published: April 2020

Silver thin films are extensively used due to their superior optical, electrical and antimicrobial properties. Recent development in the incorporation silver thin films on natural fibers makes it possible to utilize its excellent physical and chemical properties in the field of textiles. Present study focuses on the surface functionalization of natural coir fiber with silver thin film by magnetron sputtering. This will help to widen the use of natural coir fibers. The surface morphology of the coated coir fibers are investigated by employing a scanning electron microscope. The results show that the surface functionalization of silver-coated coir fibers are highly versatile, and it possess excellent protection against ultraviolet radiation, exhibit excellent hydrophobicity (contact angle=105.2°) and good antibacterial effects. This study demonstrates that treatment, which uses silver thin films by magnetron sputtering, is a promising method for achieving multifunctional coir fabrics.
Assessment of the Diversity in Fruit Yield and Fruit Components among Sri Lanka Tall Coconut Accessions Conserved Ex-Situ
Authors: K.N.S. Perera  , H.M.N.B. Herath  , D.P.S.T.G. Attanayaka  , S.A.C.N. Perera
Published: April 2020

Characterization of conserved coconut germplasm has been undertaken globally for identification of important features of different accessions for them to be effectively used in coconut breeding. One hundred and fifty seven accessions comprising of local and exotic material have been conserved in ex-situ field genebanks of Coconut Research Institute in Sri Lanka. The objective of this study is to quantitatively characterize nut yield and fruit components by weights among Sri Lanka Tall (Typica) coconut accessions. Twenty local tall coconut accessions were characterized for nut yield and fruit components following Bioversity International descriptors for coconut. Bunch wise nut yield was recorded in all the coconut phenotypes in the six most mature bunches in 25 randomly selected palms from each accession. Sampled nuts were scored for weights of fresh nut, husked nut, split nut and kernel and the weights of husk, water and shell of each nut were derived from the scored data. Analysis of variance by general linear models procedure and mean separation by Duncan’s multiple range test were performed in SAS v8 and principal component analysis and cluster analysis using squared Euclidean distances were performed in Minitab V17. General linear models procedure revealed significant differences for nut yield and all the fruit components at 5% probability level. Walahapitiya recorded the highest average nut yield followed by the Razeena with statistically equal performances. Clovis recorded the highest values for most of the parameters for fruit component analysis followed by the accession Margaret, grouping together in Dendogram and the scatter plot. The highest per nut kernel producer, Clovis, was followed by Margaret with statistically equal performances and this is important because kernel is the main economically important component followed by the husk. Results revealed that there is no significant correlation between nut yield and all the fruit components in tall accessions indicating the importance of taking these two parameters separately to formulate germplasm conservation strategies.
Preparation and Quality Assessment of Yoghurt Prepared from Dairy Milk and Coconut (Cocos nucifera, L) Milk
Authors: S.R Priya
Published: April 2020

Yoghurt was produced using dairy and coconut milk. Five variants of yoghurt namely plain dairy and coconut yoghurt (variant I), dairy and coconut yoghurt with natural grape pulp (variant II), dairy and coconut yoghurt with synthetic grape flavour (variant III), dairy and coconut yoghurt with natural pineapple pulp (variant IV) and dairy and coconut yoghurt with synthetic pineapple flavour (variant V) were prepared. Among these five variants dairy and coconut yoghurt with pineapple pulp (variant IV) had received the highest mean scores for all the sensory criteria, and was selected for the further study. Physicochemical properties and selected nutrient components were analysed for the pineapple flavoured yoghurt prepared with dairy milk and coconut milk. Yoghurt made with coconut milk  had scored higher values for all the analysed nutrients (energy - 142.49 ± 2.63, carbohydrate - 9.55 ± 0.12, protein – 8.02 ± 0.005 and fat – 13.03 ± 0.05) than yoghurt made with dairy milk (energy - 93.76±0.25, carbohydrate - 4.46 ± 0.05  , protein – 7.26 ±  0.11  and fat – 9.82 ± 0.02). The results of current study demonstrated that the addition of fruits to the yogurt significantly improved the product acceptability and also yoghurt produced from coconut milk can be a match able substitute for normal yoghurt.
Genetic Diversity Evaluation of MARDI’s Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) Germplasm using Simple Sequence Repeats
Authors: H.N. Khairun
Published: April 2020

A total of 18 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers have been optimized and used to genotype coconut (Cocos nucifera L.). These markers were used to genotype 23 coconut varieties that were maintained in MARDI’s germplasm collection. Fifteen SSR loci were polymorphic markers while the remaining three SSR were monomorphic.  The number of alleles ranged from 2 to 19 with a mean number of 8.53 per locus. The expected heterozygosity values in each variety ranged from 0.07 to 0.61, with an average value of 0.52. Several varieties could be successfully differentiated by using these 15 SSR markers such as Cameroon Red Dwarf x West African Tall hybrid, Mawa hybrid, Malayan Tall x Cameroon Red Dwarf hybrid, Malayan Red Dwarf x Rotuman hybrid, Catigan, Pandan and Laguna. A UPGMA Dendogram showed Niu Damu as an outlying group with high dissimilarity from all other varieties. Analyses using the STRUCTURE software showed all 23 varieties to be clustered into 21 genotypic groups. This new information will greatly contribute towards characterization of the MARDI’s coconut germplasm collection and to develop a SSR tool for the identification of new coconut varieties in Malaysia.
DESAFIOS DA RESSIGNIFICAÇÃO DA EDUCAÇÃO QUANTO AS TECNOLOGIAS EM TEMPO DE PANDEMIA
Authors: Carolina M. de C. Martins Ana , Marques Melo da Silva Andreia , Pinheiro Teodozio dos Santos Ghislaine , Assis de Oliveira Gisele , Montez Jorge
Published: April 2020

Frente à dimensão da tarefa docente de reinventar-se para criar soluções urgentes para os problemas de ensino e aprendizagem  m  ducação remota, reescrevendo currículos (inclusive os ocultos), onde múltiplos atores e diferentes ideias eram expostas, este  rabalho tem como objetivo promover a reflexão sobre as contribuições das Tecnologias Digitais de Informação e Comunicação  TDIC) no desenvolvimento de web currículos em tempos de pandemia. Com objetivos exploratórios, nossa pesquisa aplicada buscou  s conhecimentos a fim de responder questões sobre o diagnóstico do acesso e uso da tecnologia; respostas do poder  úblico frente ao distanciamento social; como alcançar a qualidade e a equidade nesse panorama diverso e contribuições da  eurociência. Para impulsionar a discussão dos atores da educação pública brasileira na contemporaneidade levantamos panoramas   intervenções na escola e fora dela.
Treatment outcomes of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma by transarterial chemoembolisation combined with radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Dang Ngoc Hung , Dang Nhu Thanh
Published: April 2020

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancer and ranks third in terms of cancer related deaths. The majority of patients are not eligible for curative treatment because of local or distal progression of tumor. RFA treatment following TACE has some advantages over TACE alone. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and survival benefits of the TACE+RFA approach to the management of unresectable HCCs in Hue Central Hospital, Vietnam. Methods: A prospective, cohort study on 60 patients, diagnosed with unresectable HCCs and treated with TACE combined with RFA at Hue Central Hospital from 1/2016 – 1/2019. All clinical and paraclinical data and adverse effects of each treatment, tumor response rate assessed by m-RECIST criteria, survival rate and other adverse events from the first treatment were documented. Results: There were no major complications after combined therapy except for two cases (1.4%) of liver failure treated successfully with conservative therapy. Tumor control rate (CR+PR) at three months after the last treatment was 81.6%. All patients were followed-up closely after treatment and additional treatments were decided based on imaging and laboratory results. The mean follow-up time was 19.3 (4 – 30) months. The 1-year and 2-year survival rates were 71.7% and 58.3%, respectively. Conclusion: Combination therapy with TACE and RFA is an effective, safe and feasible option for patients with unresectable HCCs. Key words: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), transarterial chemoembolisation (TACE), radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
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The importance of effective communication as an “industrial tool and an emotional and social matter which strengthens relationships at sea”
Authors: Chirea Ungureanu Carmen
Published: April 2020

In terms of effective communication, the higher levels of Maritime English must be strengthened. The seafarers’ ability to speak and understand General English and Maritime English, and to use the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP) is not sufficient. The seafarers' ability to transfer information, to give feedback, to acquire cultural awareness, and to master intercultural communication skills also plays a key role in his/her training.
“Effective communication” as stated in STCW78, as amended, represents a demanding message which should be accepted by Maritime English teachers and trainers to increase and highlight their activities.
Social exclusion in Romania. The insufficiency of a correct social representation within Romanian unions
Authors: Mina Simona
Published: April 2020

Trade union movement in Romania is mostly oriented on actions by reaction type, and the decrease of the impact of trade unionism would be generated by the fact that, for various reasons, these reactions are emptied of content, and are simple reflexes of mobilizing structures now deprived of their engine: the political action. My thesis is that already long enough, Romanian unionism preferred the participation in the construction of policies in areas of interest, against the old social reaction and trade union struggle. Unions should be transformed into some important social actors, who are establishing social rules regarding civil society. This should be an important way for eliminating the gap of power between employers and employees.
Identification of a Group III CEMP-no Star in the Dwarf Spheroidal Galaxy Canes Venatici I
Authors: Yoon Jinmi , Whitten Devin D. , Beers Timothy C. , Lee Young Sun , Masseron Thomas , Placco Vinicius M.
Published: April 2020

CEMP-no stars, a subclass of carbon-enhanced metal-poor (CEMP) stars, are one of the most significant stellar populations in galactic archeology, because they dominate the low end of the metallicity distribution function, providing information on the early star formation and chemical-evolution history of the Milky Way and its satellite galaxies. Here we present an analysis of low-resolution (R ∼ 1800) optical spectroscopy for a CEMP giant, SDSS J132755.56+333521.7, observed with the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT), one of the brightest (g ∼ 20.5) members of the classical dwarf spheroidal galaxy, Canes Venatici I (CVn I). Many CEMP stars discovered to date have very cool effective temperatures (T
eff < 4500 K), resulting in strong veiling by molecular carbon bands over their optical spectra at low/medium spectral resolution. We introduce a technique to mitigate the carbon-veiling problem to obtain reliable stellar parameters, and validate this method with LBT low-resolution optical spectra of the ultra-metal-poor ([Fe/H] = −4.0) CEMP-no dwarf, G 77–61, and seven additional very cool CEMP stars, which have published high-resolution spectroscopic parameters. We apply this technique to the LBT spectrum of SDSS J132755.56+333521.7. We find that this star is well described with parameters T
eff = 4530 K, log g = 0.7, [Fe/H] = −3.38, and absolute carbon abundance A(C) = 7.23, indicating that it is likely the first Group III CEMP-no star identified in CVn I. The Group III identification of this star suggests that it is a member of the extremely metal-poor population in CVn I, which may have been accreted into its halo.
ESE and EASE call for high standards of research and editing
Authors: Bazdaric Ksenija , Smart Pippa
Published: April 2020

The world has changed in the past few months in a way most of us could not imagine. The words “novel corona virus’’ (SARS-CoV-2), “COVID-19’’, “prevention”, “flattening the curve’’ and “hand washing’’ have become constant references within the daily news reports of mortality rates, the lack of equipment and possible therapies. The novel corona virus (SARS-CoV-2), which was first identified in the Chinese province of Hubei, has led to a pandemic and the whole scientific community, both in the public and privately-financed sector, is searching for an effective therapy as well as for a vaccine. All scientists (clinicians, epidemiologists, virologists, and public health experts) are under great pressure to give advice on matters where there is still no evidence.

We are used to reading fake news and non-filtered information in the media, but are we ready for similar occurrences in science journals?
Proposed universal framework for more user-friendly author instructions
Authors: Ufnalska Sylwia , Terry Alison
Published: April 2020

When preparing a scientific manuscript for submission to a journal, it is often time-consuming to find the journal's specific preferences, which can influence acceptance. We propose that journals include a simple table at the start of their instructions for authors, clearly displaying the essential information, e.g. word count, number of keywords, format of tables and figures. Such a table could be also easily updated as journal preferences change. Thanks to this, the submitted articles would be more likely to meet the basic requirements. We hope this initiative will save time for everyone involved in scientific publishing.
Monitoring the silver carp invasion in Africa: a case study using environmental DNA (eDNA) in dangerous watersheds
Authors: Crookes Steven , Heer Tej , Castañeda Rowshyra A. , Mandrak Nicholas E. , Heath Daniel D. , Weyl Olaf L. F. , MacIsaac Hugh J. , Foxcroft Llewellyn C.
Published: April 2020

Biodiverse habitats are increasingly subject to an intensification of anthropogenic stressors that may severely diminish species richness. Invasive species pose a dominant threat to biodiversity and biosecurity, particularly in biodiversity hotspots like Kruger National Park, South Africa. The invasive silver carp, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, was introduced into the Olifants River and may experience range spread owing to favorable environmental conditions. Intensive monitoring protocols are necessary to effectively manage invasions of species like silver carp. Unfortunately, tropical and sub-tropical aquatic systems are difficult to monitor using conventional methods (e.g., netting, electrofishing and snorkeling) owing to a range of factors including the presence of dangerous megafauna. Conservation of such systems may be advanced by the adoption of novel methods, including environmental DNA (eDNA) detection. Here, we explore the utility of environmental DNA (eDNA) to conduct safe, reliable and repeatable surveys in dangerous watersheds using silver carp as a case study. We conducted eDNA surveys at 12 sites in two neighbouring watersheds, and determined that the species has expanded its range within the Olifants River and to the south in the Sabie River. Expansion in the former is consistent with the presence of suitable spawning conditions. We discuss the implications of this survey for biodiversity monitoring in similar aquatic systems in the tropics and advocate an integrative approach to biomonitoring in these ecosystems.
Ce que la guerre fait à l’institution : l’école primaire en France autour du premier conflit mondial
Authors: Saint-Fuscien Emmanuel
Published: April 2020

Et si, non seulement la pédagogie nouvelle déployée dans l’Europe des années 1920 et 1930 mais aussi l’évolution institutionnelle de l’école au xxe siècle devaient quelque chose aux expériences scolaires du temps de la Première Guerre mondiale ? Voici la question posée dans cet article qui prétend aborder conjointement la façon dont l’école représente la guerre et celle dont la guerre transforme l’école. Il s’agit ici d’interroger les transformations des pratiques pédagogiques et des interactions au sein de l’école du temps de guerre mais aussi d’interroger les reconfigurations du temps de la paix retrouvée.
Le Comité Vansittart et les débuts de la France libre
Authors: de Fouchécour Clotilde
Published: April 2020

Un document britannique encore inédit conservé au Churchill Archives Centre à Cambridge apporte des éléments nouveaux sur les débuts de la France libre. Il s’agit des comptes rendus d’un comité officieux réunissant de proches conseillers de Churchill entre le 21 juin et le 8 juillet 1940 : parmi eux, Desmond Morton, conseiller du Premier ministre pour le renseignement ; Robert Vansittart du Foreign Office et Edward Louis Spears, Membre du Parlement. Jean Monnet est le seul Français à y avoir participé. Ce document met à jour les efforts déployés pour empêcher la création d’un gouvernement en exil français et maintenir le contact avec des éléments français restés à leur poste, prémices d’une politique à deux niveaux que l’on pourrait presque qualifier de « vichysso-gaulliste ».
La sécurité sociale entre solidarité et marché
Authors: Bec Colette
Published: April 2020

Cet article analyse dans une perspective socio-historique un processus de délégitimation politique de la Sécurité sociale. En 1945, dans la continuité du solidarisme, cette institution porte, avec le droit du travail, le projet d’un ordre social nouveau reposant sur une égale protection de tous, indispensable à la liberté et à la citoyenneté de chacun. Elle subit depuis les années 1970 une réorientation philosophique et politique profonde et évolue vers un statut d’organisme payeur invité à se soumettre aux lois du marché. Cette réorientation trouve son origine dans le dilemme, à la Libération, entre une protection conçue comme droit du travailleur ou comme droit de l’homme et donc entre une solidarité catégorielle ou nationale. La généralisation du système se fait de façon différenciée, inégalitaire et porteuse de dualisation. Face aux transformations profondes de la société et au déséquilibre financier, une série de mesures réactives et d’ajustements ont tenu place de débat sur les réformes de fond nécessaires. Elles ont accentué les ambivalences originelles et limité sa portée transformative et démocratique. Le principe de solidarité tend à s’effacer au profit d’une logique prioritairement budgétaire et gestionnaire ouvrant la porte à une marchandisation de la protection.
Comptabilité privée et action publique. Les transformations de l’État et du capitalisme
Authors: Eyraud Corine
Published: April 2020

À travers l’analyse de l’adoption par l’État d’une comptabilité d’entreprise, cet article dresse un tableau des transformations de l’État français au cours de la dernière décennie. En mettant en évidence de nouveaux circuits économico-financiers, il montre la nécessité de penser ensemble transformations de l’État et transformations du capitalisme.
Mesurer la qualité pour transformer l’hôpital ?
Authors: Bertillot Hugo
Published: April 2020

Depuis le début des années 2000, les pouvoirs publics français déploient des instruments d’évaluation de la qualité dans les établissements de santé. En procédant à la déconstruction sociotechnique des « indicateurs de qualité », cet article analyse une discrète entreprise de quantification. Mesurant des dimensions peu conflictuelles de la qualité, nourris de savoirs pluriels, équivoques dans leurs usages, les indicateurs de qualité sont suffisamment doux pour ne pas brusquer les professionnels, tout en étant suffisamment robustes pour instiller discipline et auditabilité. Au nom de la qualité, cette technologie de gouvernement est ainsi équipée pour rationaliser l’hôpital en douceur.
Paiement à l’acte et régulation du système de soins : une analyse de longue période (1803-2013)
Authors: Domin Jean-Paul
Published: April 2020

Ce travail propose une lecture rétrospective du système de santé et notamment de l’évolution du mode de rémunération. La profession s’est constituée autour de certains principes gravés dans le marbre en 1927 dans la Charte médicale. Paradoxalement, ces principes issus de la guérilla menée par les médecins contre les assurances sociales dans les années 1930 vont accompagner le développement de la socialisation de la médecine. Aujourd’hui, la socialisation recule progressivement et les pouvoirs publics tentent de mettre en place de nouvelles formes de rémunération qui vont à l’encontre de certains principes de la Charte (notamment la liberté de thérapeutique). Les praticiens seraient ainsi prêts à abandonner certains principes pour maintenir leur niveau de revenu.
Effects of Holy Name Meditation on the Quality of Life of Hospital Middle Manager Nurses in Korea: A 6-Month Follow-Up
Authors: Yong Jinsun (Sr. Julianna) , Park Junyang (Fr. John) , Park Yonggyu , Lee Hun , Lee Gyungjoo , Rim Sunyoung
Published: April 2020

Background:

Nurses experience poor quality of life due to workload and role stress. In this study, a spirituality-based intervention was administered to nurse managers.

Method:

A total of 45 nurse managers participated in the study; 24 were assigned to the experimental group, and 21 were assigned to a control group. The Holy Name Meditation Program was provided solely to the experimental group. Pretest, posttest 1 (5 weeks after the intervention), posttest 2 (12 weeks after the intervention), and posttest 3 (24 weeks after the intervention) data were gathered on seven variables, including spiritual well-being, spiritual needs, job satisfaction, leadership, burnout, depression, and self-efficacy.

Results:

The experimental group showed significant improvement in spiritual well-being (
p
< .001), spiritual needs (
p
= .029), and job satisfaction (
p
= .005) until the 24-week follow-up. Burnout (
p
< .001), depression and anxiety (
p
= .034), and self-efficacy (
p
= .024) showed significant improvement until the 12-week follow-up. Depression and anxiety (
p
= .053) showed decreasing tendency until the 24-week follow-up.

Conclusion:

Evidence suggests this program promotes spiritual and psychosocial well-being of nurse managers.

[
J Contin Educ Nurs
. 2020;51(5):215–224.]
Effects of a Simulation-Based CPR Training Program on Knowledge, Performance, and Stress in Clinical Nurses
Authors: Sok Sohyune R. , Kim Jung A. , Lee Yoonshin , Cho Youngmi
Published: April 2020

Background:

Rapid and accurate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) performed by clinical nurses plays an important role in increasing the survival rate of cardiac arrest patients in the hospital.

Purpose:

This study examined the effects of a simulation-based CPR training program on knowledge, performance, and stress of CPR in clinical nurses.

Method:

A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group design was used. Study participants included 60 clinical nurses (experimental group,n= 30, and control group,n= 30) in a general hospital in Seoul, South Korea. A 4-hour simulation-based CPR training program was conducted. Measures included the knowledge scale and performance scale from the Korean Association of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and the Post Code Stress Scale in Korean.

Results:

The simulation-based CPR training program significantly improved CPR knowledge (t= 4.664,p< .001) and performance (t= 4.940,p< .001), and decreased stress (t= −5.832,p< .001) in clinical nurses.

Conclusion:

These findings indicate a simulation-based CPR training program was effective in improving knowledge and performing CPR, as well as in decreasing stress of CPR in clinical nurses.[J Contin Educ Nurs. 2020;51(5):225–232.]
Congenital Grouped Albinotic Spots: New Insights on the Pathophysiology Based on Multimodal Retinal Imaging
Authors: Marques João Pedro , Neves Emmanuel Rebelo , Farinha Cláudia , Silva Rufino
Published: April 2020

The terms “congenital grouped albinotic spots” (CGAS) and “polar bear tracks” refer to a rare, benign retinal disorder of unknown etiology characterized by multiple, predominantly unilateral, variably sized, well-circumscribed, flat white retinal spots organized in groups. To date, very few cases of CGAS have been reported. The authors describe a case of CGAS thoroughly characterized by multimodal imaging over an 8-year follow-up, aiming to provide new insights on the pathophysiology of this entity. This is the first report where a long follow-up combined with up-to-date imaging technology is used to characterize CGAS.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2020;51:236–238.]
Use of OCTA Capillary Perfusion Density Measurements to Detect and Grade Macular Ischemia
Authors: Babiuch Amy S. , Uchida Atsuro , Hu Ming , Khan Mehnaz , Srivastava Sunil K. , Singh Rishi P. , Kaiser Peter K. , Rachtiskaya Aleksandra , Reese Jamie L. , Ehlers Justis P.
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To compare optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) capillary perfusion density (CPD) measurements of normal eyes and eyes with macular ischemia (MI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

AVATAR is an institutional review board-approved, prospective, observational imaging study using the Avanti RTVue XR HD. OCTA reports were reviewed for the presence of MI. Qualitative MI grading was performed, and CPD metrics in the superficial and deep fovea and parafovea were analyzed. A normal eye cohort was identified for comparative assessment.

RESULTS:

The MI and normal cohorts included 55 and 58 eyes, respectively. Compared to normal eyes, eyes with MI had significantly lower CPD values in all regions. There was a statistically significant correlation between qualitative MI grade and VA in the superficial (
P
= .003) and deep plexuses (
P
= .029). Only deep parafoveal CPD values demonstrated correlation with VA (
P
= .043).

CONCLUSIONS:

Eyes with MI determined by masked qualitative OCTA grading demonstrated significantly reduced CPD values compared to normal eyes. Categorical assessment of MI severity correlated with VA.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2020;51:S30–S36.]
Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Therapy for Radiation Retinopathy
Authors: Rayess Nadim , Mruthyunjaya Prithvi
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this article is to review the role of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy in treating patients with radiation retinopathy (RR).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

RR can be associated with a significant decrease in visual acuity (VA) related to the development of cystoid macular edema, macular ischemia, and proliferative retinopathy leading to neovascular glaucoma.

RESULTS:

Anti-VEGF therapy is effective at stabilizing VA in around 80% of patients and achieving reductions in central macular thickness when it is administered using a constant algorithm. Furthermore, consistent prophylactic anti-VEGF therapy reduces the risk of development of RR, neovascularization of the iris, and neovascularization glaucoma.

CONCLUSION:

Future studies are needed to determine the optimal regimen for anti-VEGF therapy according to patient risk factors and likelihood of developing RR.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2020;51:S44–S49.]