bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the MODFLOW modules for the simulation of the river type boundary condition
Authors: Dušek Petr , Velísková Yvetta
Published: October 2017

The aim of this article is the comparison of input options of river boundary condition of MODFLOW - three-dimensional numerical simulation model of groundwater flow. The water level in stream flowing through territory of hydrogeological layer can be computed via three built-in modules: River, Stream and Streamflow-Routing. In this study the code MODFLOW is used to simulate idealized aquifer and stream. The differences between computed groundwater table showed to be minimal, thus in case of modules Stream and Streamflow- Routing they are equally usable as using module River with external one or two-dimensional simulation of surface water flow, which is more time-consuming process. However, this applies only to idealized, simplified conditions of the modeled environment. For more complex simulation of flow in streams with irregular structure of the streambed is necessary to use either an external simulation or use the Streamflow-Routing module, which includes the possibility to enter more complex hydraulic flow parameters in the model.
Searching possible accident black spot locations with accident analysis and GIS software based on GPS coordinates
Authors: Hegyi Pál , Borsos Attila , Koren Csaba
Published: October 2017

There are several methods for the analysis of road accidents in a road network. In Hungary from 2011 GPS coordinates are used to identify the location of personal injury accidents. This method significantly improves the display of locations of accidents on the map, which can be then analyzed using GIS tools. Accident black spots are the most dangerous places in road networks identified by the density of the accidents in the network. One of the analysis methods is the accident density searching. The methods and algorithms used in some software may show differences in relation to one another. The aim of this research is comparing two applications by investigating the local road network in Győr. The analysis was made using the WEB-BAL accident analysis software using the density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise procedure and the QGIS software using the kernel density estimation method. The former is the official accident database and online software used for accident investigations and the latter is an open source geographic information system. The results are visualized in accident density plots and black spot maps.
Description of rail track geometry deterioration process in Hungarian rail lines No. 1 and No. 140
Authors: Nagy Richárd
Published: October 2017

The aim was the perfection of an analytic examination, which describes the track deterioration process, characterized the correspondences more precisely and better to use in practice. This method was based on the destruction’s theory of the railway track geometry and it exploited the possibilities of recent computer technology. More than one million measuring car (FMK-004) data were processed than analyzed and defined by configuring and programming a new method. The results of this method were descriptive functions, which afford interpretable information about the geometrically destruction’s occurrences of the different railway lines.
e-Procurement adoption in the Nigerian building industry: Architects’ perspective
Authors: Ibem Eziyi O. , Aduwo Egidario B. , Ayo-Vaughan Emmanuel A.
Published: October 2017

e-Procurement adoption by architects in the Nigerian building industry was investigated using data derived via a questionnaire survey of 75 architects in consulting and contracting firms, government and clients’ organizations. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation and content analyses, and the results reveal that most of the organizations employing architects were not using e-Procurement. However, the very few adopters identified used e-mails and websites in communicating, exchanging project information, and sourcing for building services, materials and equipment. The key barriers to the uptake of e-Procurement among architects in the survey were unreliable power supply, low level of awareness among people; and the lack of forum to exchange ideas on e- Procurement use. The paper emphasized the need to address these challenges to ensure a critical mass uptake of e-Procurement by architects in Nigeria.
Resistance of members subjected to combined loads according to EC3 and EC9
Authors: Niko Igor
Published: October 2017

The aim of this article is to describe problems of members subjected to biaxial bending and axial compression force and the methods of their design. Members subjected to bending moments about two axes and axial compression force exhibit complex behavior. It is necessary to consider second order theory and imperfections when designing members like that, since they have noticeable influence on resistance in instability. There are examples shown in the article, using methods present in current European standards EN 1993-1-1 and EN 1999-1-1. Attention is drawn to differences in methods, both in applicability and practicality, in design of members with constant and linear bending moment. The purpose of presented paper is to show if the method, which is currently used in Eurocode for aluminum structures, can be also used for steel structures.
System identification of a composite beam
Authors: Sokol Milan , Venglár Michal
Published: October 2017

The primary aim of the paper is to present a simple method for determining the changes in stiffness of a composite beam. The experimental model was made from wood and plaster boards. It was simply supported beam with a length of 4 m. Accelerations were measured at 24 points along the beam. In either case data for intact and damaged models were acquired. The identification of the damage was done using a code developed by the authors. The vertical mode-shapes were analyzed, so changes in the stiffness could be detected.
Analysis of plate glass columns: The influence of fixing and the coupling parameter
Authors: Jakab Andras , Nehme Salem G.
Published: October 2017

The design methods of the load bearing glass columns developed extremely in the last years. Numerous glass researchers have been trying to optimize the glass structures in terms of cost-effectiveness and safety. The authors carried out several laboratory experiments to analyze the key factors of the glass column design. Factors are investigated in the present article for example the influence of the fixing at the end of the glass columns, which essentially modifies the load bearing capacity of structures. The efficiency of the gluing of the interlayer foil (the coupling parameter) was analyzed based on the individual laboratory experiments.
Shear stress transfer model for evaluating the fracture behaviour of SHCCs for RC shear strengthening
Authors: Zhang Yongxing , Peng Hui , Lv Weihua
Published: October 2017

This paper presents a numerical shear stress transfer model for investigating the shear fracture behaviour of strain-hardening cementitious composites (SHCCs) for strengthening reinforced concrete (RC) structures. The model focuses on the transferred shear stress on the crack surface of the SHCC, taking account of the contributions from both the contact stress of the matrix and the bridging stress of the fibres. The numerical results demonstrate that the proposed shear stress transfer model can appropriately evaluate the shear fracture behaviour of SHCCs for RC strengthening, in which the fibre bridging effect on the crack surface of the SHCC has much influence on the shear fracture behaviour of the SHCC strengthening layer.
Airport concrete pavement design by environmental and double dual tandem gear loadings
Authors: Lee Jun-Hyeok , Kim Yeon-Tae , Tonn Sereyvattana , Cho Nam-Hyun , Jeong Jin-Hoon
Published: October 2017

A method for designing an airport concrete pavement (ACP) that can withstand environmental loads as well as traffic loads is presented. Information on ACPs for which double dual tandem landing gears were used for design aircrafts was collected and the stresses induced on the slabs when environmental loads and traffic loads were simultaneously applied were predicted with the finite-element analysis program FeaFaa. In addition, a maximum tensile stress regression model of ACP slabs was developed using the statistical analysis program SPSS. When environmental and traffic loads were simultaneously applied, the maximum tensile stress obtained with the finite-element method was significantly different from that obtained using Westergaard's equation of edge loading only in traffic loads. Therefore, the fatigue model in the US Federal Aviation Administration's AC 150/5320-6E design method was corrected to be appropriate for this study. Using the stress regression model developed in this study and the corrected fatigue model, the thickness and joint spacing of existing ACP slabs were redesigned and compared with existing airport pavements. Previously, only the thickness of a slab was designed and the joint spacing was empirically determined. However, from the results of this study, a slab's thickness and joint spacing can be designed mechanistically.
IMPORTÂNCIA DA TECNOLOGIA NO PROCESSO DE ENFERMAGEM PARA O TRATAMENTO DE FERIDAS CRÔNICAS
Authors: Sousa Queiroz Paula Elis , Schulz Renata da Silva , Barbosa Josiane Dantas Viana
Published: October 2017

Introdução: O Processo de Enfermagem é um instrumento metodológico que orienta o cuidado profissional e a documentação utilizada na sua prática. É essencial em todos os tratamentos, em específico no de lesões crônicas, por promover um cuidado humanizado e dirigido à resultados. A enfermagem, na condição de ciência promotora do cuidado, deve apoderar-se de todas as tecnologias e recursos existentes para elevar a qualidade da assistência prestada e facilitar sua utilização por estes profissionais. Objetivo: reconhecer a importância da tecnologia na aplicação do Processo de Enfermagem em pacientes com feridas. Metodologia: Trata-se de uma revisão narrativa, na qual foram utilizados artigos nos idiomas português e inglês, e livros, dissertações e teses que apresentaram relevância para o tema. Resultados: As categorias temáticas extraídas desse material foram: Histórico, Processo de Enfermagem e Tecnologia na Enfermagem. Considerações finais: Apesar dos avanços na utilização de recursos tecnológicos pelos enfermeiros, sua aplicação é encontrada majoritariamente na área acadêmica. Entender a tecnologia como um conceito abrangente, que permeia o cotidiano do profissional de enfermagem, permite a este a compreensão das inúmeras possibilidades que ela traz para aprimorar a assistência prestada ao paciente, em especial ao portador de feridas.
CARACTERÍSTICAS SOCIODEMOGRÁFICAS DE PACIENTES COM LEISHMANIOSE TEGUMENTAR AMERICANA
Authors: Alves Maia Jair , Menezes Fernanda de Alcântara , Silva Raquel de Lima , Bezerra da Silva Pablo José Custodio
Published: October 2017

Introdução: A leishmaniose tegumentar americana é uma zoonose presente em todos os estados brasileiros. Causada por protozoário do gênero Leishmania e transmitida pela picada de diferentes espécies de flebotomíneos infectados. Objetivo: Descrever as características sociodemográficas dos pacientes acometido por leishmaniose tegumentar americana. Método: pesquisa de campo, descritiva exploratória, de abordagem quantitativa, que utilizou dados secundários do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) e da secretária de saúde do estado do Acre, no período de 2007 a 2015. Resultados: a maioria dos pacientes com leishmaniose tinha entre 10 a 39 anos (64,60%), composta de homens (71,20%), de cor parda (75,10%), baixas proporções observadas de casos de LTA na população com educação superior incompleta (0,80%) ou educação superior completa (1,40%), e a maior proporção de casos com baixa escolaridade (31,80%), maior ocorrência na população residente em áreas rurais (60,40%), entre estudantes (15,70%), seguido por agricultores (15,40%), donas de casa (4,20%) e pecuaristas (3,700%). Conclusão: determinantes sociais como baixa escolaridade, morar em zona rural, exercer atividades nas matas, está em idade economicamente ativa estão relacionadas as maiores proporções de casos. Portanto, os profissionais das equipes de saúde devem, com olhar crítico sobre a realidade, realizar intervenções preventivas e de acompanhamento aos pacientes com condições mais vulneráveis, indicadas nesse estudo, a fim de promover um desfecho mais favorável na evolução da doença.
QUALIDADE DE VIDA DE IDOSOS RESIDENTES EM INSTITUIÇÃO DE LONGA PERMANÊNCIA: UMA REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA
Authors: Santos Ariana Oliveira , Andreotti Brenda Couto , Freitas Verônica Porto de , Carmo Naiara Andrade do , Araújo Claudineia Matos de , Reis Luciana Araújo dos
Published: October 2017

Objetivo: Avaliar a qualidade de vida de idosos residentes em instituição de longa permanência por meio de uma revisão sistemática. Materiais e métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática. Foram selecionados e lidos detalhadamente um total de 20 artigos recuperados das bases de dados SciELO e LILACS, entre os anos de 2010 a 2015. As seguintes etapas foram aplicadas na elaboração do artigo sistemática:1) elaboração da pergunta norteadora; 2) definição dos critérios de inclusão e buscas na literatura; 3) análise crítica dos estudos; 4) representação dos estudos inclusos em tabelas; 5) discussão dos resultados;  e 6) reportar a evidências encontradas. Resultados: Foram apresentados em forma de quadros, divididos nas seguintes categorias analíticas: “principais resultados encontrados sobre a qualidade de vida dos idosos residentes em instituições de longa permanência” (46,1%), “principais resultados encontrados quanto aos fatores associados a qualidade de vida dos idosos residentes em instituições de longa permanência” (38,4%) e “principais resultados encontrados sobre medidas preventivas para a qualidade de vida dos idosos residentes em instituições de longa permanência” (30,7%). Conclusão: Os idosos submetidos ao fator institucionalização estão mais dispostos a terem sua qualidade de vida comprometida, cabe às instituições focar na humanização do ambiente físico e qualificação dos profissionais da equipe, adotando uma postura que proporcione a ressignificação do idoso, trazendo um novo olhar para o idoso residente de forma que suas particularidades sejam atendidas.
Human Rights Conditionality in Bosnia and Herzegovina: From Limited Progress to Limited Impact
Authors: Kadribašić Adnan
Published: October 2017

This paper analyses the EU conditionality in the area of human rights with a focus on non-discrimination – along with its characteristics, particularities, difficulties – and the impact of this anti-discrimination legislation and policy in Bosnia and Herzegovina. There is plenty research which found inconsistencies in the EU’s human rights conditionality towards enlargement countries many of which relate to the Western Balkans countries. This papers finds evidence that although the transposition of the Council 2000/43/EC (Racial Equality Directive) and Council 2000/78/EC (Employment Equality Directive) antidiscrimination directives in Bosnia and Herzegovina could be considered as one of the biggest success of EU conditionality policy the EU has yet to develop a credible human rights conditionality policy.
Conditional Changes: Europeanization in the Western Balkans and the Example of Media Freedom
Authors: Huszka Beáta , Körtvélyesi Zsolt
Published: October 2017

This paper takes a broad view on the context of EU conditionality and, after presenting various challenges, narrows down its focus to provide evidence for the shortcomings concerning media freedom in the Western Balkans. That enlargement is not the linear, one-way process it was once believed to be – where countries gravitating towards an evident liberal democratic consensus through the pull of integration – is evident from cases reaching beyond the Western Balkans. While we will not try to establish any direct causal relationship between the shortcomings of EU conditionality and the democratic backlash in the Western Balkans in the past ten years, we do seek to demonstrate how conditionality is failing in a particular context, by providing an overview of what the essential conditions of successful norm promotion, credibility and, most importantly, consistency are, and illustrate how these are lacking in the case of media freedom conditionality.
Constructing a Political Enemy
Authors: Hrubeš Milan , Navrátil Jiří
Published: October 2017

The Communist era and its legacy became an important part of Czech (political) culture and identity after 1989. This phenomenon is especially powerful in relation to the meaning making of the communist era after 1989 and the way Czechs are getting over it. Labels such as communist, Bolshevik, normalization, nationalization of property and many others related to the communist era became powerful vehicles for stigmatization and creating a public enemy in almost any sphere, be it political, show business, or public. What makes it especially powerful is that the cultural and historical legacies (understood as deliberately propagated representations of selected fragments of the group’s past), when expressed explicitly, offer models of or for behaviour and thinking. In other words, public memory is often one of the constitutive factors of contentious and politically motivated mobilizations undertaken by different actors like political parties, social movements or individual agents when seeking public support or legitimacy, or just aiming to achieve their goals. In post-communist countries these actors often strive to mobilize participants, supporters or even opponents using legacies of the Communist past. In this text we seek to uncover how various situations, events or people are constructed as public enemies by using the communist legacy. In particular, we ask the following questions: How is anti-communist framing constructed and how does anti-communist framing resonate with popular images and understanding of Communism, the Communist era in the Czech Republic and related matters? We analyse anti-communist framing (i.e. directly or indirectly identify the situation, adversaries, institutions or activities with the Communist regime) and via constructing metaphors provide readers with deep understanding of how particular Communist legacies in specific contexts create public enemies who lose sympathy and support from the public.
Creating Suspicion and Vigilance
Authors: Kopper Ákos , Susánszky Pál , Tóth Gergely , Gerő Márton
Published: October 2017

In recent years, many theoretical and empirical analyses about the changing regimes of Central and Eastern Europe have been written, pointing out the authoritarian tendencies and radicalization in the region. Hungary is a significant case in the changing landscape of Central and Eastern Europe. The right-wing government rules the country with incontestable force, despising and disrespecting the norms of liberal democracies. Although the general impression is that the government has such a strong grip on power that resisting it is futile, in fact, it only enjoys only the support of 30 per cent of Hungarian citizens. Thus, it would be reasonable to expect the opposition to be able to effectively mobilize against the regime. In reality, no political opponent seems to stand a chance of defeating it. In order to explain why this is so, we focus on the way Orbán constantly creates images of ‘the enemy’ that keep alive an atmosphere of vigilance that blocks the efforts of critical actors to efficiently mobilize citizens. Since the political system in Hungary is highly centralized, the prime-minister’s speeches epitomize the logic and ideology of the regime. Our aim is to understand the mechanism through which the dominant political actors frame the enemy in a system of images, thereby creating an environment where critical actors are stripped of the resources needed to mobilize against them.
Between Contextual Opportunities and Discursive Resources
Authors: Caiani Manuela
Published: October 2017

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Serum lactate upon emergency department arrival as a predictor of 30-day in-hospital mortality in an unselected population v1
Authors: Joo PARK Yong , Hoon KIM Dong , Chun KIM Seong , Yun KIM Tae , KANG Changwoo , Hoon LEE Soo , Hee JEONG Jin , Bong LEE Sang , LIM Daesung
Published: October 2017

Background: Despite of numerous evidences that elevated serum lactate levels were associated with unfavorable outcomes, there have been no study demonstrated an optimal cutoff of serum lactate in unselected patients. Objectives: This study was aimed to identify a cutoff of serum lactate level for predicting 30-day in-hospital mortality among unselected patients presenting to the emergency department (ED). Method: We performed a retrospective observational study from January 2010 to December 2016. 61,151 patients were used for propensity score analysis after exclusion. 14,015 patients who underwent lactate test at ED arrival were enrolled for final analysis. Results: The ATE of carrying out a lactate test on 30-day in-hospital mortality was 0.53% (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.013, p = 0.19; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.997 - 1.013). Adjusted OR of serum lactate calculated from multivariable analysis was 1.09 (p < 0.001; 95% CI, 1.07 - 1.10). The area under a ROC curve (AUC) of serum lactate was 0.711 (p < 0.001; 95% CI, 0.703 - 0.718). The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for the cutoff > 2.6 mmol/L were 56.7%, 74.3%, 20.8%, and 93.5%, respectively. Mortality of the high-lactate group (> 2.6 mmol/L) was significantly higher than that of the low lactate group (≤ 2.6 mmol/L) (20.8% vs. 6.5%, difference = 14.3%, p < 0.01; 95% CI, 13.0% - 15.7%). Conclusion: A serum lactate level > 2.6 mmol/L predicted 30 day in-hospital mortality in unselected patients who arrived to the ED and were admitted to the hospital.
“Educating for Democratic Living”: The City-Wide Citizens’ Committee on Harlem (CWCCH), 1941 – 1947
Authors: Johnson Lauri
Published: October 2017

This historical case study focuses on the origins, educational goals, and school reform activities of the City-Wide Citizens’ Committee on Harlem (CWCCH), a political action group in Harlem in the 1940s. An interracial and interfaith civil rights organization with a broad reform agenda, CWCCH used democracy’s rhetoric as a vehicle for social change through an extensive public awareness campaign coupled with savvy organizing, ample organizational resources, and powerful political connections in both the White and African American communities. The article situates school reform work in Harlem during the 1940s in light of a larger citywide civil rights agenda and interracial activism.
Factors associated with level of birth preparedness among pregnant mothers at Kerugoya county referral hospital
Authors: Karimi Olive W. , Murigi Mary W. , Pertet Anne , Odawa Careena O.
Published: October 2017

Background: Birth preparedness is the advance preparation made by an expectant mother which ensures access to skilled care. In Africa, the risk of pregnancy related deaths is 300 times more than in the developed world. In Kenya, out of 10 expectant mothers who access antenatal care services only 4 deliver in a health facility.Methods: This was a descriptive cross sectional study conducted at outpatient Maternal Child Health and Family Planning Clinic at Kerugoya County Hospital. The study utilized convenience sampling technique to determine the study population. The research instruments were an In-depth interview guide and semi-structured questionnaires. Data was managed using SPSS and analysis done using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.Results: A sample of 202 women participated in the study. 47.5% of the participants were adequately prepared for birth. Having a higher level of education was significantly associated with birth preparedness (p=0.021). The number of children per woman had a significant influence on level of birth preparedness with women who had no children less likely to be prepared for birth compared to those with one or more children (p=0.002). Clients who attended Antenatal Care (ANC) at least 3 times were prepared for birth compared to those who visited either once or twice (p=0.027).Conclusions: Overall, women of reproductive age lack birth preparedness. There is therefore need to enhance birth preparedness awareness campaigns at ANC visits targeting women in their third trimester.
Assessment of the physical, chemical and microbiological quality of packaged water sold in Nnewi, South-East Nigeria: a population health risk assessment and preventive care study
Authors: Epundu Uzoamaka Ugochinyere , Adinma Echendu Dolly , Ezeama Nkiru Nwamaka , Uzochukwu Benjamin Sunday , Epundu Obed Chukwunonso , Ogbonna Brian O.
Published: October 2017

Background: Global statistics show that over 1.2 billion people do not have access to potable water and 70% of Nigerians lack access to potable water. Non-availability and/or lack of access to potable water predispose people to preventable life-threatening conditions. This study assessed the physical, chemical, and microbiological quality of sachet and bottled water to generate evidence for planning, policy, and intervention.Methods: The study was a cross-sectional analytic study of the quality of packaged (sachet and bottled) drinking water obtained from consumer households. The potability status of the water samples was assessed by means of qualitative assessments and quantitative laboratory tests. The results were compared to guideline values stipulated by the Nigerian Industrial Standard for Potable Water, NIS 306:2008. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The study period was from April 2016 to June 2016.Results: Of the 35.0 bottled water samples, 18.0 (51.4%), 21.0 (60.0%) and 17.0 (48.6%) had their production dates, expiry dates and batch numbers. All 65.0 (100.0%) samples appeared colourless to the naked eye and visible particles were present in 3.0 (4.6%) of the total water samples. The lead content of 7.0 (23.3%) sachet and 1.0 (2.9%) bottled sample exceeded the guideline value for lead. The pH of 16.0 (53.3%) sachet samples and 27.0 (77.1%) bottled samples fell below the recommended limits for pH. Escherichia coli was found in 4.0 (13.3%) and 15.0 (42.9%) of sachet and bottled water samples.Conclusions: The study suggested that sachet and bottled water sold in Nnewi have good physical qualities, but poor chemical and microbiological qualities. More of the microbiological contaminant (E. coli) was present in the bottled water than the sachet water.
Assessment of maternity care services among pregnant women in a coastal area in central Kerala, India
Authors: Soman Sajith Kumar , Areekal Binu , Varghese Rosin George , Murali Asha Joan
Published: October 2017

Background: Maternal care services are intended to take care about the pregnant during the antenatal, intra natal and post natal periods so as to reduce maternity related health problems. The current study tries to assess maternity care services among pregnant women in a coastal area in central Kerala, India.Methods: The setting was Mararikkulam south panchayat and the study was cross sectional in nature. The minimum sample size of the study was calculated to be 213. A house to house survey was conducted in all the 23 wards to find out those who had a live or still birth in the last one year (2014-2015) who were our study subjects. The maternity care services were assessed using multiple indicators. In statistical analysis, data was entered in Microsoft excel and was analysed using SPSS 16.0 versionResults: As per the current study the number of pregnancies registered early i.e. within 12 weeks was 72.2%. Only 68% had all the antenatal check-ups while 26.1% had less than 4 antenatal check-ups and 5.9% had no regular antenatal check-ups. 67.7% of the mothers had taken iron and folic acid for the prescribed period of pregnancy. Ultrasound examination was done at least once during the pregnancy in 63.3% of cases and not done in 36.7%. For tetanus prophylaxis 84.5% had appropriate course of TT vaccination. 73.5% of the mothers were well aware of the danger signs of pregnancy and 21.2% were partially aware and 5.3% were unaware of the danger signs.
Knowledge of parents and coverage among children regarding vitamin A in day care centers
Authors: Sharma Nidhi , Ahuja Vineet Kaur , . Siriesha
Published: October 2017

Background: Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is one of the most significant causes of preventable childhood blindness. The present study was conducted among parents of pre-school children to study knowledge and practice regarding vitamin A intake and coverage of Vitamin A supplementation among them. Methods: It was a cross sectional study conducted in Patiala city of Punjab. Interview was conducted among parents of 275 preschool children going to various day care centers in Patiala. Results: It was found in this study that 56.7% had knowledge regarding Vitamin A supplementation. Less than half of the parents knew about vitamin A rich foodstuffs. Conclusions: From the present study we can conclude that there is a wide gap regarding knowledge and coverage about vitamin A supplementation. Doctors and books were main sources of information.
Anthropometric assessment of nutritional status of children attending anganwadi in urban slums of Miraj city, Maharashtra
Authors: Gondikar Abhay , Sangrulkar Tejaswini V. , Brahmankar Tanuja R.
Published: October 2017

Background: Children between 1 to 6 years of age in India constitute 15% of total population as against 7% in the developed countries. Nutrition of these children is of prime importance as they are most vulnerable to malnutrition. Anthropometry has become a practical tool for evaluating the nutritional status of children in developing countries which is the best indicator of global wellbeing of children. The objectives were to study nutritional status of study subjects and to identify various socio-demographic risk factors associated with under-nutrition.Methods: This is a cross-sectional study carried out in 205 Children of 0-6 years of age registered in Anganwadis in adopted urban slum area of community medicine department of Government Medical College, Miraj during January –December 2014. Data was collected using a pre-designed proforma and was analyzed at 5% level of statistical significance. For all the classifications in study WHO classifications were used.Results: Out of 205 children, 113 (55.12%) were males and 92 (44.88%) were females. Majority were Hindus (54.1%), from joint family (67.8%), belonged to class IV Socio-economic status, with literate parents (81% fathers and 70.7% mothers), having maternal age between 20-30 years, having birth order one (37.5%), were attending Anganwadi regularly (71.7%), completed their immunization as per age (92.2%). Prevalence of malnutrition was 26.8% (Weight for height or length). 32 (15.6%) children were underweight, 20 (9.8%) children were in MAM i.e. moderate acute malnutrition, and 03 (1.4%) were in SAM i.e. severe acute malnutrition. Prevalence of malnutrition in 166 under 5 children was 72.9 %. 94 (56.6%) children were underweight, 24 (14.5%) children were in MAM, and 03 (1.8%) were in SAM. Prevalence of stunting was 64.5%.  Majority children had normal mid arm circumference.Conclusions: Undernutrition was more prevalent in age group of 13-24 months, females, Hindus, class 4 SES, in those having illiterate mothers, in children having birth order one and those with incomplete immunization.
Prevalence of reproductive tract infections and sexually transmitted infections among married women in the reproductive age group in urban slum of Bidar, Karnataka
Authors: Rathod Dilip S. , Shelke Ashok D. , Naik Dhananjay B. , Kesari Pallavi M.
Published: October 2017

Background: Reproductive tract infections (RTIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) represent a major public health problem in developing countries. The consequences of RTIs are numerous and potentially devastating. The present study was conducted to give some indication of the likely burden of RTIs in urban slum of Bidar and also highlight some associated factors.Methods: This study was conducted with the objective of assessing the prevalence of various RTIs among married women in the reproductive age group of 15-44 years in an urban slum of Bidar (Karnataka) during September 2015 to February 2016. Total 357 married women in the reproductive age group of 15-44 years were interviewed.Results: The prevalence of RTI was found 36.1% with maximum prevalence of 42% in the age group of 35 years and above. Also the prevalence was high in illiterate women (53.2%), women having one or two children (54.1%), women using IUD (54.5%) and women having per capita income <Rs. 1000/- (46.35%).Conclusions: The prevalence of reproductive tract infections was most commonly associated with increasing age, illiteracy, low income, use of contraceptive methods and higher parity. The commonest reported symptom of RTI/STI was vaginal discharge. The RTI services should be focused on low income groups and health education regarding prevention and control of RTIs should be widely disseminated.
A study of psycho-social background of children placed in remand home
Authors: Sathe Pradnya P. , Kotnis Shubhalaxmi D. , Mangulikar S. K.
Published: October 2017

Background: Children are one of the most vulnerable groups of societies and are at risk of many social evils. They should be identified and provided protective environment and loving care for their adequate growth and development. The aim of the study was to know psycho-social background of children in remand home.Methods: The study was carried out in Remand home Solapur which is run by Government. Based on the pilot study, 200 children were included in the study. They were interviewed regarding their personal and family background. If necessary data from remand home registers, parents, social workers and teachers were taken. Chi square test and T-test for difference between two proportions was used for the statistical analysis.Results: Out of 200 children, 78 were delinquents and 122 were non-delinquents. 144 were boys and 56 were girls. Most common reason of admission was financial constraints among non-delinquents and theft among delinquents. 12-18 yrs. old children were more involved in delinquency. Restrained relations with parents and family size played an important role in delinquency.Conclusions: Out of total 200 children, delinquency was found in 39% more in boys and 12-18 yrs. age group. Delinquency was more in children with restrained familial relations. School dropout rate was more in non-delinquents and addiction was more in delinquents.
Association of type of tuberculosis with treatment outcome among paediatric tuberculosis patients in Bhopal city
Authors: Joshi Sheloj
Published: October 2017

Background: Tuberculosis causes ill-health among millions of people each year and ranks as the second leading cause of death from an infectious disease worldwide, after the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).The younger the child, the more are the chances of complications and death from the disease. The objective of the study was to find out the association of type of tuberculosis with the treatment outcome of paediatric TB patients registered under RNTCP in Bhopal city.Methods: A longitudinal study was conducted in all tuberculosis treatment units (TU) of Bhopal city. All paediatric patients in the age group of 0 to 14 years diagnosed as TB and registered under RNTCP and fulfilling inclusion criteria during January 2013 to June 2013 were included in the study. Data regarding paediatric TB patients was collected by using a structured questionnaire. Information was also obtained in two subsequent visits of the patient, one at the end of intensive phase to know the response of treatment and other at the end of the treatment for treatment outcome. The data was analysed on statistical software SPSS vs.20.Results: The present study was conducted on 165 paediatric Tuberculosis patients who were registered for DOTS treatment under RNTCP. Pulmonary TB is common in all the age group of <1 and 1-10 years. Out of 165 paediatric patients,93.33% of patients were treatment completed in which 54.54% were pulmonary cases and 45.45% were extra pulmonary while 4.84% were declared cured, thus showing statistically significant association (X2=9.758 and p=0.04, df=4) between type of Tuberculosis and treatment outcome.Conclusions: Pulmonary TB is common in the age groups of <1 and 1-10 years while in 11-14 years of age group extra pulmonary TB is more common. There is statistically significant association between type of Tuberculosis and treatment outcome.
A study on the respiratory effects in road construction workers in Mysore, India
Authors: Majgi Sumanth Mallikarjuna , Dinesh Akshay , Mukherjee Saptarshi
Published: October 2017

Background: The process of road formation involves lot of chemicals which harm the respiratory tract. This leads to many health problems faced by road construction workers due to occupation. This study was done to find out the respiratory problems in road construction workers in Mysore.Methods: 128 workers were asked questions about their respiratory symptoms and knowledge of protection from occupational hazards, and their peak expiratory flow rate and oxygen saturation were measured.Results: Only 31.25% workers had appropriate PEFR. The oxygen saturation was more than 95% for all the workers studied. 30% of the workers suffered from cough and 30% from breathlessness. There was poor knowledge and practice of using protective clothing, especially masks (46% and 5%).Conclusions: Policy changes in preventive precautions for occupational hazards need to be brought in.
Pattern of tobacco use among adolescents in urban slums of Jorhat, Assam
Authors: Das Netri , Tasa Anadi S. , Medhi Anuradha H.
Published: October 2017

Background: Tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable death worldwide and an estimated 250 million children and adolescents in developing countries die prematurely because of tobacco consumption. The objectives of the study were to determine the pattern of tobacco use among the adolescents and assess the factors associated with its use in urban slums of Jorhat, Assam.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in two randomly selected urban slums of Jorhat district from September 2015 to February 2016 among 110 adolescents using predesigned pretested proforma. Data were analyzed using SPSS - trial version 16; risk analysis was done using odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals.Results: 106 (96.36%) adolescents had ever used a tobacco product and 97 (88.18%) were current users. 57.73% consumed smokeless form and 3.1% used smoking form exclusively while 39.17% used both smoking and smokeless tobacco. Exclusive smokeless tobacco use was more common among girls. Smoking as well as combined smoking and smokeless tobacco was more common among boys. Gutkha was most common smokeless product (94.84%) and cigarette was commonest smoking form (34.02%) used. Awareness regarding its harmful effects was high (77.28%). Tobacco use in family is significantly associated with current use of tobacco (OR 5.88).Conclusions: Tobacco consumption is an emerging threat to health of adolescents in urban slums. Smokeless tobacco use is high in our study, especially among girls. Tobacco use by family is a major reason behind using tobacco indicating an urgent need to carry out behaviour change communication (BCC) activities among adolescents and their family members.
A cross sectional study to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding tuberculosis among the patients at GMCH, Udaipur (Rajasthan)
Authors: Rathore Mahendra Singh , Jain Jyoti , Dixit Mukul
Published: October 2017

Background: The present study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding Tuberculosis among non TB patients in Udaipur.Methods: A cross sectional study conducted at Geetanjali Medical College and Hospital, Udaipur among the non TB patients during the period of 1st June 2015 to 31st December 2016 after obtaining Ethical clearance from Human Research Ethical Committee. Study was conducted on 220 patients using a pre tested questionnaire after taking their verbal consent to participate in study.Results: Insignificant difference in knowledge about TB was found between male and female respondents. More than 65% of respondents found to have correct knowledge regarding sign and symptom, mode of acquiring TB and mode of preventing TB.Conclusions: Health education directed towards improve knowledge and bringing a change in attitude and practice among non TB patients is needed to create awareness and remove myths about tuberculosis in groups of people in the community.
Assessment of general well-being before and after treatment for morbidities among inmates of a destitute centre of north Karnataka: a pre and post evaluation study
Authors: Desai Sachin , Metgud Chandra S.
Published: October 2017

Background: The destitute centre was established in 1992, 14th August; situated in Karnataka with a built up area is 29 acres and has 33 males and 17 female inmates. The patients here can be classified as having psychiatric illness, destitute with general co morbid conditions and wandering tramps with normal mentation. The study was done to know the morbidity profile among the inmates of destitute centre and to assess the change in the quality of life before the morbidity assessment and after medication and treatment.Methods: It was a pre-post evaluation study done from August 2012 to December 2012. All of the 50 resident inmates of the destitute centre were evaluated before and after clinical examination and treatment with General Well Being Scale (GWBS).Results: Among the total inmates, 06 (12%) were in age group 20-29 years, 11 (22%) belonged to 30-39 years, 10 (20%) belonged to 40-49 years, 09 (18%) each belonged to 50-59 and 60-69 years age group respectively, 04 (8%) belonged to 70-79 years and 01 (2%) of the elderly belonged to age ≥80 years of age. 38 (76.0%) were males and 12 (24%) were females. Majority of the inmates i.e. 42 (84.0%) belonged to broken families, about 4(8.0%) elderly belonged to problem families. 18 (36.0%) consumed tobacco, about 07 (14.0%) were either smoking or consuming alcohol, about 02 (4.0%) had both alcohol and smoking habits.Conclusions: 74% of them had psychiatric comorbidities and these were likely to cause significant functional impairment. Appropriate treatment helped 5 (10%) individuals to be shifted to rehabilitation center.
A study on assessment of safe injection practices among internees in government general hospital, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Peethala Sujatha , Garapati Sridevi
Published: October 2017

Background: Injections are commonly used in healthcare settings for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various illnesses. Unsafe injection practices put patients and healthcare providers at risk of infectious and non-infectious adverse events. Safe injection practices are part of standard precautions and are aimed at maintaining basic levels of patient safety and provider protections. Objectives of this study were to assess the knowledge and observe safety practices while giving the injections.Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted among 200 internees in Government General Hospital, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh in the months of January and February 2010. Data was obtained by semi- structured questionnaire; analyzed by using SPSS software version16.0 at p<0.05 significance level.Results: In the present study, knowledge of internees was enquired into and practices were also observed in various aspects of injection safety. Knowledge on washing hands before giving injection was 64% but when it comes to practice, it was only 29%; knowledge on use of hub-cutter after giving injection was found to be 48% but in practice hub-cutter use was observed to be very less (5.5%); knowledge on safe disposal of used syringes was 42% but only 9.0% were practicing safe disposal. Similarly knowledge on use of color coded bags according to guidelines was 40.5% and in practice it was observed to be 14%.Conclusions: In the present study knowledge and practices on injection safety was found to be poor; dissemination of IEC, behavior change campaigns and continuing education on universal precautions and proper disposal of injection related waste was recommended.
Use of oral rehydration solution by mothers of under-five children in a rural area of Kancheepuram district, Tamil Nadu: a KAP study
Authors: M. Muthulakshmi , S. Gopalakrishnan
Published: October 2017

Background: Diarrhoea is defined as the passage of loose, liquid or watery stools more than three times a day. Globally, diarrhoeal disease is the second leading cause of death in children under five years of age. Timely management of the children with ORS has substantially declined the morbidity and mortality from acute infectious diarrhoea. This study was planned with an objective to find out the knowledge, attitude and practice about the use of ORS among mothers of under five children.Methods: This is a cross sectional descriptive study carried out in the rural field practice area attached to a medical college in Kancheepuram district. Using simple random sampling method, the study group of 450 mothers of under-five children were identified. The data was collected using a pretested structured questionnaire containing 10 questions for assessing the knowledge and 8 for attitude and practice each. The answers were scored accordingly. Data was analysed using SPSS 17 software. Knowledge, attitude and practice were calculated using percentages.Results: It is observed that 72% had adequate knowledge, 92% had positive attitude and 94% had good practice regarding the use of ORS among mothers of under-five children.Conclusions: In this study, most of the mothers had adequate knowledge, attitude and practice about the use of ORS. However, knowledge, attitude and practice of mothers towards use of ORS for the treatment of diarrhoea need a little more improvement. This improvement can be achieved through effective health education strategies
An experience of workshop on introduction to statistical methods and SPSS hands-on training to enhance analytical skills among research professionals
Authors: Tellur Laxmi , Sorganvi Vijaya , Yadavannavar M. C.
Published: October 2017

Background: In a current scenario, research project and writing a thesis is one of the most important components of PG and Ph.D. studies and a potential area where the students are challenged by lack of structured guidance. Thus the workshop on “Introduction to Statistical Methods & ‘SPSS’ Hands-on Training” was conducted with the objectives, to know the impact of workshop and to obtain suggestions for improvement.Methods: The workshop on “Introduction to Statistical Methods & ‘SPSS’ Hands-on Training” conducted during 7-9 November, 2016 by the Department of Community Medicine, Shri B. M. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre in collaboration with University of Manitoba, Canada. The effectiveness of the workshop was assessed by pre-and-post tests using Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ). Analysis was done using paired t test and Wilcoxon signed rank test.Results: A total of thirty six participants attended the sessions. The overall participant opinion about the workshop was positive. Majority of the participants were female. Majority of the participants were in the age group of 30-35 years (33%), followed by 25-30 years (28%). Majority of participants were MBBS (31%), MD (28%), other degree faulty members (22%) and PhD (22%). The mean score in pre-and-post-test was 12.52±6.17 and 13.98±6.50 respectively (Range=2-27) and was found significant difference in the scores between pre-and-post-tests (p=0.002).Conclusions: The recommendations and suggestions given by workshop participants were to increase the duration of the workshop. Participants were satisfied with the teaching methodology in the workshops.