Role of Computer-Assisted Programs in Optimizing the Use of Antimicrobial Agents

2004 ◽  
pp. 327-352
Author(s):  
John P. Burke ◽  
Rajesh R. Mehta
Methodology ◽  
2006 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 7-15 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joachim Gerich ◽  
Roland Lehner

Although ego-centered network data provide information that is limited in various ways as compared with full network data, an ego-centered design can be used without the need for a priori and researcher-defined network borders. Moreover, ego-centered network data can be obtained with traditional survey methods. However, due to the dynamic structure of the questionnaires involved, a great effort is required on the part of either respondents (with self-administration) or interviewers (with face-to-face interviews). As an alternative, we will show the advantages of using CASI (computer-assisted self-administered interview) methods for the collection of ego-centered network data as applied in a study on the role of social networks in substance use among college students.


ReCALL ◽  
2009 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
pp. 3-17 ◽  
Author(s):  
Beatriz de los Arcos ◽  
James A. Coleman ◽  
Regine Hampel

AbstractSuccess and failure in language learning are partly determined by the learners’ ability to regulate their emotions. Negative feelings are more likely to frustrate progress, while positive ones make the task of learning a second language (L2) a more effective experience. To date no significant body of research has been carried out into the role of anxiety in the field of computer-assisted language learning (CALL). The present study adopts discursive psychology (DP) as its methodological approach to examine anxiety not as a psychological state, but as a social construct in the context of an audiographic conferencing tool. After interviewing a sample of learners of Spanish at the Open University (OU), our findings reveal a strong connection between emotion and learner beliefs.


2013 ◽  
Vol 11 (01) ◽  
pp. 1340012 ◽  
Author(s):  
SEYED SHAHRIAR ARAB ◽  
MOHAMMADBAGHER PARSA GHARAMALEKI ◽  
ZAIDDODINE PASHANDI ◽  
REZVAN MOBASSERI

Computer assisted assignment of protein domains is considered as an important issue in structural bioinformatics. The exponential increase in the number of known three dimensional protein structures and the significant role of proteins in biology, medicine and pharmacology illustrate the necessity of a reliable method to automatically detect structural domains as protein units. For this aim, we have developed a program based on the accessible surface area (ASA) and the hydrogen bonds energy in protein backbone (HBE). PUTracer (Protein Unit Tracer) is built on the features of a fast top-down approach to cut a chain into its domains (contiguous domains) with minimal change in ASA as well as HBE. Performance of the program was assessed by a comprehensive benchmark dataset of 124 protein chains, which is based on agreement among experts (e.g. CATH, SCOP) and was expanded to include structures with different types of domain combinations. Equal number of domains and at least 90% agreement in critical boundary accuracy were considered as correct assignment conditions. PUTracer assigned domains correctly in 81.45% of protein chains. Although low critical boundary accuracy in 18.55% of protein chains leads to the incorrect assignments, adjusting the scales causes to improve the performance up to 89.5%. We discuss here the success or failure of adjusting the scales with provided evidences. Availability: PUTracer is available at http://bioinf.modares.ac.ir/software/PUTracer/


BELTA Journal ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-12
Author(s):  
S. M. Sanzana Rahman ◽  
Lubaba Sanjana

Using an online platform, such as Google Classroom to engage learners, is a recent practice in the field of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL). It can be used to engage learners to learn academic English skills at the tertiary level in Bangladesh. This paper examines adoption of Google Classroom through the lens of Rogers’ (2003) diffusion of innovations to investigate learners’ experiences, attitudes, and perceptions towards Google Classroom as a Learning Management System (LMS) to engage students to learn the four skills of English. The researchers have undertaken a mixed methods approach to collect data from 105 tertiary level students who are taking EAP courses in a private university. The findings suggest that the participants have strong positive attitude towards the use of different features of Google Classroom due to the availability of training and technological tools. This study is crucial for understanding the importance of using instructional technology (IT) in reshaping English teaching practices in Bangladesh.


2019 ◽  
pp. 1
Author(s):  
Irena Kuzborska

This article is based on the plenary talk given at the inaugural UHAMKA International Conference on English Language Teaching (ELT) and Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) (UICELL 2018) in Jakarta, Indonesia, 23 November 2018, and focuses on the explanation of reading as a communicative rhetorical act. Outlining the key features of such reading, it then considers the benefits of reading texts rhetorically. A specific focus is given to the role of rhetorical reading in writing. While the article acknowledges the limited research on the relationship, it provides some evidence that reading texts rhetorical can lead to both more effective reading and more effective writing. A specific technique on how to teach students to read texts rhetorically is also presented in this article.


Author(s):  
Saira Sehar ◽  
Amiza Amiza ◽  
I. H Khan

Nanotechnology advancement leads to development of antimicrobial agents like ZnO nanoparticles. These nanoparticle have their main applications in food packaging. when these nanoparticles incorporate into the food surface, it will kill all bacterias residing on the surface and food become free of bacteria. In this way, food can be stored for a long time because its shelf life is improved. Antimicrobial activity of ZnO nanoparticles can be improved by increasing surface area, reducing particle size and large concentration of ZnO –NPS. Antimicrobial activity increases by increasing intensity of UV light. As UV light fall on ZnO nanoparticles, it increases ZnO surface area and hence anrtimicrobial activity will be increased. Exact mechanism of Antimicrobial activity is still unknown but some processes have been presented.


2021 ◽  
Vol 36 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
S Abbasihormozi ◽  
A Kouhkan ◽  
A Shahverdi ◽  
A Parhizkar ◽  
Z Zolfaghary ◽  
...  

Abstract Study question To evaluate the association between sperm functionality parameters and biochemical, hormonal, and inflammatory indices in obese and diabetic men. Summary answer Metabolic changes,hormonal dysfunction,and the presence of inflammatory mediators might be considered possible mechanisms in the development of sub-fertility in obese and diabetic sub-fertile men What is known already Although the higher prevalence of subfertility in obese and diabetic men during the reproductive age is evident, the mechanisms by which obesity and diabetes mellitus (DM) cause male infertility are not entirely understood. Several pathways might be involved in the role of obesity in semen quality, thereby inducing alterations in hormonal profiles, abnormal lipid metabolism, and possibly the formation of inflammatory cytokines, ultimately leading to impaired sperm function Study design, size, duration We enrolled normal weight (BMI<25 kg/m2) and non-type–2 diabetic (control=40), obese and non- type–2 diabetic (obese=40), non-obese and type–2 diabetic (Lean-DM=35), and obese and type–2 diabetic (Obese-DM=35) sub-fertile men, aged 20–50 years, referring to Royan infertility clinic (Tehran, Iran) from March to September 2014 Participants/materials, setting, methods After enrollment and receiving informed consent, all men underwent face-to-face private interviews. The obesity-associated markers, insulin resistance, beta-cell function, hormonal and lipid profile, inflammatory indices, and semen analysis were assessed in four experimental groups. Semen analysis was examined after 2–5 days of sexual analysis).abstinence based on WHO-recommended methods by CASA system (computer-assisted sperm Main results and the role of chance Main results and the role of chance: Our finding showed that diabetic markers were significantly increased in two diabetic groups, while obesity indices were markedly increased in two obese groups. Conventional sperm parameters were significantly lower in obese DM, lean DM, and obese groups compared with the control (p < 0.05). Serum levels of total testosterone (TT) and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) were significantly lower in men with obesity and DM compared with the control (p < 0.05).There was a significant difference in the concentration of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) among four experimental groups. Moreover, serum leptin was significantly increased in obese DM, lean DM, and obese groups. Serum insulin levels had a positive correlation with metabolic-associated indices (WC, BMI, FBS,HbA1c,and HOMA-IR), as well as hs-CRP levels, whereas it had a negative correlation with count, motility, and morphology. There is also a negative association between metabolic-associated indices (WC, BMI, FBS, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR) and semen parameters. Limitations, reasons for caution It was better to evaluate inflammatory biomarkers be examined in other tissues Wider implications of the findings: The results of this study demonstrated the association of metabolic changes, hormonal dysfunction, and inflammatory responses with the semen parameters of sub-fertile men with obesity and diabete. Trial registration number Not applicable


1993 ◽  
Vol 14 (5) ◽  
pp. 202-203
Author(s):  
Terry Yamauchi

Introduction The enterococci, normal inhabitants of the human and animal bowel flora, were considered for years to be nonvirulent microorganisms. Over the past decade, however, the role of enterococci in human disease has taken on new importance. Serious diseases, such as bacteremia, which is associated with significant mortality, and endocarditis, are prime examples of human enterococcal infections. More recently, the wide-spread use of antimicrobial agents has led to the emergence of multiresistant microorganisms, previously considered to be nonpathogenic, as significant agents in human diseases. Morphologically, enterococci are gram-positive cocci that grow in chains and resemble streptococci. Previously, enterococci were placed in the Lancefield Group D streptococci genus; currently, they are in a new bacterial genus classification Enterococcus (Table). Clinical Diseases Enterococci may cause serious infections in the hospitalized patient and have been reported as the third leading cause of nosocomial infections in the United States. The recovery of enterococci from the urinary tract, surgical wounds, and the blood documents the importance of these bacteria in hospital-acquired infections. [See table in the PDF file] The urinary tract is the most common site infected by enterococci. Surgical instrumentation, intervention, and catheterization are invasive procedures that place the patient at risk for enterococcal infection.


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