Interactive learning in the classroom – not a competitor but a partner for e-learning

This paper a short description about interactive learning methods in the classroom is given and also its role in the Internet-based teaching is outlined. Interactive learning in the classroom is problem based learning and also a version of project work. The difference between pure project work is that in most cases the teacher is available all the time, in the background. Also the “project” can be very short, sometimes lasts only one session. Internet based learning can be used, but it is only a data source, not the main method. The role of the teacher is emphasized. The argument is that those university teachers who have the ability and skill to be “real teachers” in the classroom should be encouraged to develop and preserve their skill. We want to show some examples in which interactive learning has given better results than other new methods

Optimization of protease production by Bacillus licheniformis in Sugarcane bagasse using statistical experimental design

Sugarcane bagasse, the residue obtained after extracting the sugar juice from sugarcane was tested for the production of protease under solid-state fermentation (SSF) using Bacillus licheniformis. The fermentation variables were selected in accordance with Plackett-Burman design and were further optimized via response surface methodological approach. Four significant variables (K2HPO4, Beef extract, NaNO3 and Glycine) were selected for the optimization studies. The optimum values for the selected variables were; K2HPO4 -0.3464g/gds, Beef extract- 0.1039g/gds, NaNO3- 0.0334g/gds and Glycine- 0.1027g/gds. A second-order model equation was suggested and then validated experimentally.The model adequacy was very satisfactory as the coefficient of determination was 0.95. The maximum protease production was 146.28U/gd

Occupational stress among IT professionals in Chennai, Tamilnadu

Background: Stress in the workplace can have impact on physical and mental health. It can also be result in absenteeism, reduced productivity and monetary problems among the working population. The objective of this study is to assess the stress levels among the Software Professionals working in a private firm, Chennai Methods:  A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months in a private software firm in Chennai. A sample size of 364 participants was determined based on previous research, with data collected through interviews using a pre-tested questionnaire. This questionnaire covered demographic information, perceived stress scale, and various lifestyle factors, including exercise and hobbies. Data were analyzed using statistical tests, including Chi-square, and significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The study included predominantly young male participants (mean age 27 ± 3.5), with 81.9% experiencing moderate stress levels. High stress was more prevalent among males and those under 28 years old. Software professionals with over three years of experience and those working on computers for more than six hours a day were more likely to report moderate to high stress levels. However, individuals who engaged in exercise and hobbies exhibited lower stress levels. Conclusion: Coping strategies and periodic health education should be recommended to reduce the development of stress and its consequences

A systematic review of non-invasive modalities used to identify women with anal incontinence symptoms after childbirth

© 2018, The International Urogynecological Association. Introduction and hypothesis: Anal incontinence following childbirth is prevalent and has a significant impact upon quality of life (QoL). Currently, there is no standard assessment for women after childbirth to identify these symptoms. This systematic review aimed to identify non-invasive modalities used to identify women with anal incontinence following childbirth and assess response and reporting rates of anal incontinence for these modalities. Methods: Ovid Medline, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED), Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Cochrane Collaboration, EMBASE and Web of Science databases were searched for studies using non-invasive modalities published from January 1966 to May 2018 to identify women with anal incontinence following childbirth. Study data including type of modality, response rates and reported prevalence of anal incontinence were extracted and critically appraised. Results: One hundred and nine studies were included from 1602 screened articles. Three types of non-invasive modalities were identified: validated questionnaires/symptom scales (n = 36 studies using 15 different instruments), non-validated questionnaires (n = 50 studies) and patient interviews (n = 23 studies). Mean response rates were 92% up to 6 weeks after childbirth. Non-personalised assessment modalities (validated and non-validated questionnaires) were associated with reporting of higher rates of anal incontinence compared with patient interview at all periods of follow-up after childbirth, which was statistically significant between 6 weeks and 1 year after childbirth (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This systematic review confirms that questionnaires can be used effectively after childbirth to identify women with anal incontinence. Given the methodological limitations associated with non-validated questionnaires, assessing all women following childbirth for pelvic-floor symptomatology, including anal incontinence, using validated questionnaires should be considered

Some studies on sintered cold deformed plain carbon alloy steels

Steel of Fe–0.8%C with and without addition of 1.0%Mo were considered for the present investigation. Experimental analysis was studied for attained density against induced strain parameter. Various stress parameters were determined and studied for its behaviour against strain. Instantaneous plastic Poisson’s ratios of were computed and was compared with conventional. All these characteristics were extensively studied under the influence of composition as well as aspect ratios; however, friction condition and initial density of the preforms were kept constant