bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Fee-for-Service Testing to Generate Revenue for the 21st Century Public Health Laboratory
Authors: Loring Carol , Neil R. Brock , Gillim-Ross Laura , Bashore Matthew , Shah Sandip
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

The decrease in appropriations for state public health laboratories (SPHLs) has become a major concern as tax revenues and, subsequently, state and federal funding, have decreased. These reductions have forced SPHLs to pursue revenue-generating opportunities to support their work. We describe the current state of funding in a sampling of SPHLs and the challenges these laboratories face as they implement or expand fee-for-service testing.

Methods.

We conducted surveys of SPHLs to collect data concerning laboratory funding sources, test menus, fee-for-service testing, and challenges to implementing fee-for-service testing.

Results.

Most SPHLs receive funding through three revenue sources: state appropriation, federal funding, and fee-for-service testing (cash funds). Among SPHLs, state appropriations ranged from $0 to more than $6 per capita, federal funding ranged from $0.10 to $5 per capita, and revenue from fee-for-service testing ranged from $0 to $4 per capita. The tests commonly performed on a fee-for-service basis included assays for sexually transmitted diseases, mycobacterial cultures, newborn screening, and water testing. We found that restrictive legislation, staffing shortages, inadequate software for billing fee-for-service testing, and regulations on how SPHLs use their generated revenue are impediments to implementing fee-for-service testing.

Conclusions.

Some SPHLs are considering implementing or expanding fee-for-service testing as a way to recapture funds lost as a result of state and federal budget cuts. This analysis revealed many of the obstacles to implementing fee-for-service testing in SPHLs and the potential impact on SPHLs of continued decreases in funding.
Core Courses in Public Health Laboratory Science and Practice: Findings from 2006 and 2011 Surveys
Authors: Deboy John M. , Beck Angela J. , Boulton Matthew L. , Kim Deborah H. , Wichman Michael D. , Luedtke Patrick F.
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

We identified academic training courses or topics most important to the careers of U.S. public health, environmental, and agricultural laboratory (PHEAL) scientist-managers and directors, and determined what portions of the national PHEAL workforce completed these courses.

Methods.

We conducted electronic national surveys in 2006 and 2011, and analyzed data using numerical ranking, Chi-square tests comparing rates, and Spearman's formula measuring rank correlation.

Results.

In 2006, 40 of 50 PHEAL directors identified 56 course topics as either important, useful, or not needed for someone in their position. These course topics were then ranked to provide a list of 31 core courses. In 2011, 1,659 of approximately 5,555 PHEAL scientific and technical staff, using a subset of 25 core courses, evidenced higher core course completion rates associated with higher-level job classification, advanced academic degree, and age. The 2011 survey showed that 287 PHEAL scientist-managers and directors, on average, completed 37.7% ( n=5/13) of leadership/managerial core courses and 51.7% ( n=6/12) of scientific core courses. For 1,659 laboratorians in all scientific and technical classifications, core-subject completion rates were higher in local laboratories (42.8%, n=11/25) than in state (36.0%, n=9/25), federal (34.4%, n=9/25), and university (31.2%, n=8/25) laboratories.

Conclusions.

There is a definable range of scientific, leadership, and managerial core courses needed by PHEAL scientist-managers and directors to function effectively in their positions. Potential PHEAL scientist-managers and directors need greater and continuing access to these courses, and academic and practice entities supporting development of this workforce should adopt curricula and core competencies aligned with these course topics.
Suffer the Infants: A Severe Case of Pertussis in Oregon, 2012
Authors: Liko Juventila , Koenig William J. , Cieslak Paul R.
Published: January 2017

Pertussis remains a public health concern in Oregon, especially among young infants. The disease can be severe in this age group and is associated with a high inpatient cost. This report describes an Oregon infant who was hospitalized with pertussis for 90 days, required extracorporeal oxygenation for 43 days, suffered complications including stroke, and had hospital charges totaling $1.5 million. Pertussis morbidity among young infants argues for vaccination of women during each pregnancy and of infants beginning promptly at two months of age.
Evaluation of a Community Health Worker Intervention to Reduce HIV/AIDS Stigma and Increase HIV Testing among Underserved Latinos in the Southwestern U.S.
Authors: Rios-Ellis Britt , Becker Davida , Espinoza Lilia , Nguyen-Rodriguez Selena , Diaz Gaby , Carricchi Ana , Galvez Gino , Garcia Melawhy
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

Latinos are at an elevated risk for HIV infection. Continued HIV/AIDS stigma presents barriers to HIV testing and affects the quality of life of HIV-positive individuals, yet few interventions addressing HIV/AIDS stigma have been developed for Latinos.

Methods.

An intervention led by community health workers ( promotores de salud, or promotores) targeting underserved Latinos in three southwestern U.S. communities was developed to decrease HIV/AIDS stigma and increase HIV knowledge and perception of risk. The intervention was led by HIV-positive and HIV-affected (i.e., those who have, or have had, a close family member or friend with HIV/AIDS) promotores, who delivered interactive group-based educational sessions to groups of Latinos in Spanish and English. To decrease stigma and motivate behavioral and attitudinal change, the educational sessions emphasized positive Latino cultural values and community assets. The participant pool comprised 579 Latino adults recruited in El Paso, Texas ( n=204); San Ysidro, California ( n=175); and Los Angeles, California ( n=200).

Results.

From pretest to posttest, HIV/AIDS stigma scores decreased significantly ( p<0.001). Significant increases were observed in HIV/AIDS knowledge ( p<0.001), willingness to discuss HIV/AIDS with one's sexual partner ( p<0.001), and HIV risk perception ( p=0.006). Willingness to test for HIV in the three months following the intervention did not increase. Women demonstrated a greater reduction in HIV/AIDS stigma scores when compared with their male counterparts, which may have been related to a greater increase in HIV/AIDS knowledge scores ( p=0.016 and p=0.007, respectively).

Conclusion.

Promotores interventions to reduce HIV/AIDS stigma and increase HIV-related knowledge, perception of risk, and willingness to discuss sexual risk with partners show promise in reaching underserved Latino communities.
Do Sexually Oriented Massage Parlors Cluster in Specific Neighborhoods? A Spatial Analysis of Indoor Sex Work in Los Angeles and Orange Counties, California
Authors: Chin John J. , Kim Anna J. , Takahashi Lois , Wiebe Douglas J.
Published: January 2017

Objective.

Social determinants of health may be substantially affected by spatial factors, which together may explain the persistence of health inequities. Clustering of possible sources of negative health and social outcomes points to a spatial focus for future interventions. We analyzed the spatial clustering of sex work businesses in Southern California to examine where and why they cluster. We explored economic and legal factors as possible explanations of clustering.

Methods.

We manually coded data from a website used by paying members to post reviews of female massage parlor workers. We identified clusters of sexually oriented massage parlor businesses using spatial autocorrelation tests. We conducted spatial regression using census tract data to identify predictors of clustering.

Results.

A total of 889 venues were identified. Clusters of tracts having higher-than-expected numbers of sexually oriented massage parlors (“hot spots”) were located outside downtowns. These hot spots were characterized by a higher proportion of adult males, a higher proportion of households below the federal poverty level, and a smaller average household size.

Conclusion.

Sexually oriented massage parlors in Los Angeles and Orange counties cluster in particular neighborhoods. More research is needed to ascertain the causal factors of such clusters and how interventions can be designed to leverage these spatial factors.
The Force-Elongation Behavior of Web Fibers and Silks Forcibly Obtained from Orb-Web-Spinning Spiders
Authors: Work Robert W.
Published: January 2017

The force-elongation properties of web fibers produced by the major ampullate gland systems of four species of orb-web-spinning spiders have been determined and compared with the corresponding properties of fibers obtained from the same gland systems by forcible silking. Although all such fibers are highly variable in characteristics, on the average the former are possessed of rupture tenacities of the order of 80 g/tex and rupture elongations of 35%, a combination that gives them an extremely great resistance to failure in extension. There is some indication that fibers obtained by forcible silking without carbon dioxide-induced anesthesia are possessed of similar properties. But forcible silking under complete anesthesia results in the formation of fibers of lower tenacity and tends to produce an even greater variability in morphology and physical properties than is found among web mooring-line fibers from the same species.

Techniques are described for the preparation of samples of these very small (3 to 5-micron diameters) and therefore very fragile fibers and for making measurements on them.
Optimization of Rope-Range Bleaching of Cellulosic Fabrics
Authors: Mousa A. H. N.
Published: January 2017

The desizing, scouring, and bleaching processes of cellulosic fabrics were optimized to find the best conditions for each process. Each part was dealt with alone, using rapidase desizing, alkali scouring, and hydrogen peroxide bleaching. Factorial experiments were used to assess the effect of each treatment on fabrics.
Thermomechanical Behavior of Nonwovens
Authors: Shimalla Charles J. , Whitwell John C.
Published: January 2017

A systematic study was undertaken to correlate qualitatively a multiplicity of responses of nonwoven fabrics to a selected set of controlled variables. The nonwovens were bonded under heat and pressure using a bilateral bonding fiber mixed with a base fiber. The variables were the chemical constitution of the base fiber, concentration of binder fibers, and three thermal bonding variables: bonding temperature, extent of annealing, and quench temperature. Of 40 responses originally recorded, 23 mechanical properties are analyzed by regression on the first 5 new responses generated by a principal component analysis. The results of this method, which eliminates redundancies in the responses, are compared to the results which would have been obtained using the 23 separate responses. Improvement in ability to quantify effects of the variables was achieved.
Relationship of Some Fiber Properties with Yarn-Strength Parameters of Jute
Authors: Paul N. Geo
Published: January 2017

Jute fiber properties commonly determined are strength and fineness. The relationship of these fiber properties with the various yarn-strength parameters are discussed. Though fiber bundle strength is closely associated with yarn tenacity, it does not explain satisfactorily the variation in yarn quality. Fineness measured by the air-flow method does not show significant correlation with yarn tenacity.
The Flammability of Polyester-Cotton Mixtures
Authors: Miller Bernard , Martin J. Ronald , Meiser Charles H. , Gargiullo Margaret
Published: January 2017

Polyester-cotton blended fabrics have the reputation of being “difficult to flame retard.” Treatments developed for flame retarding 100% polyester or 100% cotton fabrics do not seem to have the same effect when the two fibers are combined. Quantitative data are presented which pinpoint how the flammability behavior of polyester-cotton blends differs from that of the components. Physical and chemical aspects of pre-ignition and post-ignition phenomena are discussed for mixtures in which one or both of the polymers has been flame retarded, as well as for untreated combinations.
Dyeing of Anionically-Modified Polyamide Fibers with Cationic Dyestuffs
Authors: Müller H.
Published: January 2017

The diffusion from the fiber surface into the interior is the rate-determining step in the cationic dyeing of anionically-modified polyamide fibers. The diffusion coefficients for the diffusion of an oxazonium dyestuff (Astrazon Blue BG, C.I. 51004) and a thiazonium dyestuff (Methylene Blue, C.I. 52015) into two polyamides modified with the monosodium salt of 5-sulphoisophthalic acid at pH 4.5 and 1.8 have been determined by the steady-state method and have been compared with the diffusion coefficients for diffusion into the corresponding unmodified polyamides. In the case of the anionically-modified polyamides, active cooperation of the sulpho groups in the diffusion of the dyestuff cations into the interior of the fiber must be assumed, of a type in which the dyestuff cations are first bound to outer sulpho groups and then, in movements of the segments of the polymer chain, are transferred from the outer sulpho groups to free inner sulpho groups. The activation energies for the diffusion process have been determined by means of the Arrhenius equation from the temperature dependence of the diffusion coefficients.
Surface-Chemical Aspects of Polymer Spreading and Adhesion to Wool Fibers
Authors: Bateup B. O. , Cook J. R. , Feldtman H. D. , Fleischfresser B. E.
Published: January 2017

Attempts to shrink-resist unmodified wool sliver with liquid prepolymers are described. Only liquid prepolymers with surface tensions less than 30 mN/m spread spontaneously on unmodified wool fibers when applied from either an organic solvent or an oil-in-water emulsion. Such treatments give good shrink resistance when the sliver is washed in a liquor with high surface tension, but they fail in wash liquors of low surface tension, suggesting that adhesion at the wool/polymer interface is provided solely by van der Waal's forces. When the polymers are applied under conditions that facilitate diffusion of polymer molecules into the surface of the fibers, shrink resistance is improved, presumably because of enhanced adhesion.
Influence of Fiber Properties on Wrinkling Behavior of Fabrics
Authors: Prevorsek D. C. , Butler R. H. , Kwon Y. D. , Lamb G. E. R. , Sharma R. K.
Published: January 2017

Analyses of mechanical and diffusive properties of fibers are described, indicating strong lateral interactions between the microfibrils. These results show that uniaxially-oriented polymers must be analyzed in terms of a model where the crystallites are imbedded in an “amorphous” matrix. The equations are derived for modulus, strength, and coefficient of diffusion in terms of crystallite dimensions, and the results are compared with the experimental data. These results contradict the predictions of the microfibrils model where the properties are independent of the crystallite dimensions but depend solely on the degree of crystallinity. New correlations were found between the coefficient of friction and tan δ of the fiber. It is proposed that polymer deformation has a strong effect on the frictional behavior of fibers in the fabrics.
Card-Room Dust Levels and Response of Humans to Raw Cotton Cleaned by the Shirley Analyzer
Authors: Griffin A. C. , Hatcher J. D. , Cocke J. B.
Published: January 2017

Two bales of similar cotton were prepared by 1) normal ginning and 2) normal ginning plus one pass through the Shirley Analyzer for testing for particle-size distribution and lung-function response by cotton-mill workers during carding. Airborne dust level measurements by a vertical elutriator and OSHA personal sampler plus lung-function data are reported. The experiment indicated that, although extra lint cleaning may reduce the overall airborne dust level, it may not be expected to significantly change the particle-size distribution in the respirable size range nor change the lung-function reaction of humans.
Effects of Anti-Oxidants on Size Distribution of Polycaprolactam during Melting and Melt-Spinning
Authors: Bhattacharya T. K. , Abubakkar MD. , Mukherjee A. K.
Published: January 2017

The changes in the size distribution of polycaprolactam that take place during melting and melt-spinning have been studied. During melting under a nitrogen atmosphere, thermal degradation as well as post polymerization takes place. Spinning the polymer under atmospheric conditions, thermal, thermo-oxidative, and mechanical degradations come into play. Post polymerization is also operative in this case. The net change that is being encountered in these processes is a broader size distribution of the polymer as compared to that of the parent one.

The effects of three different anti-oxidants, which are paraphenylene diamine derivatives, on the size distribution of polycaprolactam during melting and melt-spinning have been studied. Anti-oxidants are found to check the broadening of the size-distribution curve and retain the mechanical properties of the material to an appreciable extent, even after heat treatment at a temperature of 160°C for 8 hours under atmospheric condition.
The Corona Treatment of Cotton
Authors: Abbott G. M.
Published: January 2017

The cohesion or drafting force of cotton card sliver was enhanced by corona-discharge treatments. The level of treatment increased with the power in the corona, the number of corona zones, the number of passes through the corona apparatus, and the temperature of the cotton, but decreased with the moisture content of the cotton. Four different gases used in the corona reactor produced the same increase in sliver cohesion.
Collection of Large Quantities of Respirable Cotton Dust for Byssinosis Research
Authors: Brown David F. , Berni Ralph J.
Published: January 2017

Byssinosis is an occupational respiratory disease which is thought to be induced by chronic respiration of cotton, flax, or soft-hemp dusts in textile mills. The disease is caused by foreign matter included with the raw fiber, not by the fiber. Obtaining sufficient quantities of respirable dust under 15–20 μm diameter for biological and chemical analysis has been a major difficulty in byssinosis research. Two simple means have been devised for collecting kilogram quantities of respirable cotton dust from the air-cleaning systems in commercial mills.
Bahudhâ and the post-9/11 world
Authors: Singh B.P.
Published: January 2017

In the post 9/11 world, there is an imperative need to formulate a public policy of harmony that would meet the demands of different peoples and societies. This calls for a certain degree of attitudinal change. Salient in this context is the Bahudha philosophy, which has its origins in the Rig Veda. Bahudha helps us understand another persons point of view about life and religion, science and spirituality, politics and economy, with tolerance and respect. It also calls for-and that is significant-inculcation of a habit in which one person thinks that the other person's point of view may be right. This thought process has found powerful expression at different periods of India's long civilisational history in writings of philosophers and religious reformers, in work of arts and poetry, and in day-to-day social living. The approach has bloomed in other civilizations too. Today, in the age of terrorism and an unsafe world, there is a fresh need to understand the core meaning of our religions, to reshape our education system and to strengthen the UN in a manner that helps us build a better future.
Narratives on deforestation-Contesting the conventional wisdom
Authors: Kumar Chetan
Published: January 2017

‘Narratives’ can be best described as stories based on shared notions in the form of self-evident assumptions, common knowledge and simplistic explanations. They often gain validity despite the fact that they frequently simplify complex issues and processes. The hegemony of narratives has been so profound that they have been the predominant driving forces behind policy formulation at national as well international levels. Narratives represent points of view always, and should be certainly questioned, as the lessons from research on deforestation illustrate.
Extending social security coverage to the informal sector in India
Authors: Sarkar Siddhartha
Published: January 2017

While the definition of ‘social security’ has been made comprehensive, little attention has been paid to the working poor in the informal sector. This paper delves into the concept of social security, examines possible measures for social security provisions to the informal sector, reviews social security initiatives by the several State governments, identifies a number of challenges in extending social security coverage to the informal sector and makes policy recommendations.
Assessing capability change: A case study of the impact of a North Indian NGO
Authors: Patry Eric
Published: January 2017

Amartya Sen's ideas of building people's capabilities as a pathway to development is shaping today's developmental discourse in theory and practice. Its effectiveness and efficiency in fostering ethically ‘good’ development is increasingly acknowledged. However, the question inevitably arises: How is developmental progress in terms of capability change to be assessed? The first part of this paper briefly sketches Sen's capability approach and Alkire's concept of capability assessment. The later sections are devoted to the application of these concepts with a case study on a North Indian NGO, SUTRA. The paper presents and analyses the qualitative results of the empirical assessment of capability change induced by SUTRA.
Urbanisation in the North-East: Patterns, trends, and policy prongs
Authors: Khawas Vimal
Published: January 2017

Pre-Independence, the North-Eastern region was largely rural, but in the second half of the 20th century, urbanisation levels here shot up. Indications are that development projects initiated by State and Central governments and the role of missionaries in creating educational infrastructure were key contributory factors. The data also show that urban concentration in the North-East, as in the rest of the country, has been top-heavy. Not only that, the spatial distribution of urban units gets more and more uneven at higher levels of urban concentration. On the other hand, data from the 2001 Census reveals, medium and small towns (towns of class III, IV and V), which together account for over 80% of towns in the region, are more evenly distributed. There is, in this context, a need to nurture the smaller towns, which display an encouraging potential for growth. Within the States also, urbanisation is uneven, which too suggests a high potential for a more balanced pattern of urbanisation in future.
Successful policy implementation in a country Where it seldom happens: The ban on two-stroke engine vehicles in Dhaka
Authors: Chowdhury Saber Ahmed
Published: January 2017

Successful implementation of policy is very low in Bangladesh, but the ban on two-stroke engine vehicles in Dhaka was an exception. The ban involved large-scale changes as well as a high-goal consensus. It secured support from all quarters, including three categories of stakeholders who had to suffer its consequences-vehicle owners, vehicle drivers, some 13,000 strong, who wielded significant political clout, and commuters who used these vehicles as taxis to move about in the city. Several actors and factors played a vital role in making the implementation of the policy a successful one. Public interest litigation, political will, support of opposition parties, role of the media, and commitment of implementing agencies, were all important, but it was political will and government efforts to mobilise support that were critical.
Impact of cooperative credit on the agriculture sector of Himachal Pradesh: A study of the mid-hill zone
Authors: Kumar Sikander , Singh Rakesh
Published: January 2017

The study of the impact of agricultural cooperative credit on agricultural inputs, land improvement, production and marketing of different holding groups is important for the assessment of credit utilisation. If the credit is utilised properly for the purpose for it was sanctioned, its impact that is, flow of benefits to the beneficiaries will help in improving their economic status. Food is a prime necessity of life, is an agricultural product and that the world is still so poor that it must devote a great part of its resources to the production of necessity. The utilisation pattern of loans reflects that only marginal farmers have shown the best results. Therefore, misuse of loans has been negligible in the case of marginal farmers and special schemes should be launched to further meet the financial needs of the marginal farmers. However, in terms of land improvement exceptions have been noticed in terms of larger farmers who make investments on land improvement. The coefficient of correlation between agricultural inputs and level of production reflects that there exists a perfect positive relationship between the two, but it is subject to marginal farmers only. The cooperative marketing societies are functioning under certain constraints which have hindered their growth. The main reasons are storage facilities and lack of local markets. However, of late, the government makes some efforts to locate the market in the local area, which further need to be disseminated to the clusters of two to three villages.
Cherry picking and the issue of nursery school admissions
Authors: Sood Neelam
Published: January 2017

In all actions concerning children, whether undertaken by public or private social welfare institutions, courts of law, administrative authorities or legislative bodies, the best interest of the child shall be a primary consideration.
Development and poverty in an Indian state: A study of KBK districts of Orissa
Authors: Dash Satya Prakash
Published: January 2017

Development is multi-dimensional and always strives for a positive growth in continuum. The economic reforms of 1991 in India were initiated, among other things, to achieve social justice and equity. In spite of our experience of economic reforms for more than a decade, poverty and economic inequity still exist. Economic reforms have failed to bring in a positive impact on the toiling masses living in the rural areas. People living in these areas are still devoid of the development and welfare objectives of the economic reforms. Poverty still persists for which people also suffer from other ancillary problems. The paper deals with poverty in Orissa with specific reference to KBK districts. The paper analyses the R.L.T.A.P. Programme implemented in KBK districts as a special area development programme. Special emphasis is being given to these districts so as to achieve a ‘holistic’ development. In spite of these special programmes, poverty still exists in Orissa, in general, and in KBK districts, in particular. The paper analyses poverty and development vis-a-vis economic reforms, under the broader context of fragility.
Changing livelihood pattern of slum dwellers in Delhi: From a squatter settlement to a resettlement colony
Authors: Ghosh Arun Kumar
Published: January 2017

The movement of inhabitants from a squatter settlement to a resettlement colony can be perceived as a rise in the status of slum dwellers. The slum dwellers of the resettlement colonies now have better housing with security of tenancy. Also, they earn more than before, both in relative and absolute terms. But relatively better income and better housing have failed to bring about substantial change in living standards. The author examines the issues of a resettlement colony of Delhi in the local and global context. While the continuous pressure of population on infrastructures has deteriorated the physical and environmental conditions of the resettlement colony, the casualisation of employment in the informal sector has led to marginalisation of the poor residing in the resettlement colony.
Kangaroo Care in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Authors: McMaster P , Haina T , Vince J D
Published: January 2017

Kangaroo care is a simple and highly practical method of care of the low birthweight newborn which has been shown in some studies to significantly improve survival. We describe the introduction of ‘kangaroo care’ to the special care nursery at Port Moresby General Hospital, discuss the problems encountered and attempt to assess its impact in a 1-year retrospective study, during which it was associated with a reduction in hypothermia and an increased rate of weight gain.
A Prepaid Healthcare Scheme in Rural Africa
Authors: McFarlane Gordon A , Sammon Alastair M
Published: January 2017

Healthcare providers in Africa are having to increasingly rely on the resources of the populations they serve. An 8-year experience with one of the first rural-based health insurance schemes in East Africa is described. Initial difficulties included adverse selection of members with chronic ill health, fraudulent claims and overuse of health services, leading to considerable financial losses. External technical assistance introduced member tracking and regular reports, reduced adverse selection, fraud and overuse of services to a minimum, and achieved financial stability. Local market research and a comprehensive marketing plan is essential for the overall success of an insurance plan. Health insurance in this part of Africa is likely to assist middle income earners rather than the poor.
Home-Based Mother's Record: Operational Feasibility, Understanding and Usage in a Rural Community in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mahomed K , Mason E , Warndorf T
Published: January 2017

Utilization of health services is variable but may contribute to the well being of women during pregnancy. If people understand when there is a risk of illness or death, they are likely to cooperate in reducing those risks and participate in their own care. In rural communities people need to be provided with simple but scientifically-sound technology adapted to their understanding and needs. One such technology is the home-based maternal record (HBMR).

We assess the feasibility, understanding and usage of a locally adapted HBMR of the World Health Organization prototype in a rural community in Binga district, Zimbabwe.
Sclerotherapy for Large Hydrocoeles in Nigeria
Authors: Onu Pedro E
Published: January 2017

Sclerotherapy with tetracycline hydrochloride was used to treat 99 patients with large hydrocoeles (range 300–1500 ml). The mean age of these patients was 52 years. In 55.5% of the patients one treatment was adequate. Two treatments were required in 22%; three in 10%; four in 3%; and five in 7% of the patients. In two patients sclerotherapy failed. Complications were minimal. Only 15% of the patients complained of severe pain. The overall success rate was 98%. Tetracycline sclerotherapy for large hydrocoeles is effective, safe and economical and is preferred for older patients who are at risk from anaesthetic complications.
Malaria and Antimalarial Plants in Roraima, Brazil
Authors: Milliken William
Published: January 2017

One of the numerous problems created by the gold rush which took place in northern Brazil (Roraima State) at the end of the 1980s was a severe epidemic of malaria amongst the indigenous peoples of the region. Worst hit were the Yanomami Indians, who had lived in almost total isolation prior to this event. The problem has been exacerbated by the development of chloroquine-resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum. In an effort to identify viable alternatives to dependence on western medicine for malaria treatment, a survey was carried out on the local plant species (wild and cultivated) used for this purpose in Roraima. Fieldwork was carried out amongst seven indigenous peoples, as well as with the non-indigenous settlers. Over 90 species were collected, many of which have been cited as used for treatment of malaria and fevers elsewhere. Knowledge of antimalarial plants was found to vary greatly between the communities, and in some cases there was evidence of recent experimentation. Initial screening of plant extracts has shown a high incidence of significant antimalarial activity amongst the species collected.
Buerger's Disease in Nepal
Authors: Fleshman Keith
Published: January 2017

At Tansen Mission Hospital in the middle hill area of Nepal the 4-year discharge data base was surveyed for amputations due to thromboangiitis obliterans (Buerger's disease). An incidence of 693/100 000 admissions was found. This is 50 times higher than the North American incidence. We investigated causative factors by means of in-depth interviews about genetic background, life style, diet and geography. In addition to tobacco use which was 100%, we found only extreme poverty, a diet of mostly maize, and residence in the Himalayan foothills as consistent co-factors.
Cholecystectomy without Operative Cholangiography in a District Hospital
Authors: Puthu Devanand , Chitnis Ashutosh R
Published: January 2017

Thirty-seven patients underwent cholecystectomy without intraoperative cholangiography. Patients were selected using clinical and investigatory parameters. One patient had a negative common bile duct exploration. During the follow-up period of 2½–3½ years, all patients remained symptomatically and sonologically free of stones.
Barriers to the Uptake of Cataract Surgery
Authors: Johnson J G , Sen V Goode , Faal H
Published: January 2017

In The Gambia many patients identified as blind or as having low vision are not attending for surgery. The aim of this study was to investigate the reasons for non-attendance. Three methods were used: semi-structured interviews; focus group discussions; and written questionnaires completed by staff. The most frequently identified barrier by all three methods was cost, closely followed by lack of information about services, fear, transport difficulties, and the lack of an escort. In addition to the existing measures taken by the National Eye Care Programme (NECP) to reduce these barriers, further research into both the public's knowledge and attitudes regarding surgery for cataract is needed. More contact between members of the eye care programme and the communities would aid the transfer of information about the surgery.
Crocodile Bite Injury in Southern Malawi
Authors: Vanwersch Koen
Published: January 2017

In Trinity Hospital, a district hospital in the south of Malawi, over a period of 4 years 60 patients were admitted following injury by crocodiles. All patients were treated by extensive surgical cleaning and debridement, anti-tetanus treatment and broad spectrum antibiotics. Twenty-four patients (40%) had serious injuries resulting in permanent deformity. Only one patient died from sepsis.
Ectopic Pregnancy Involving the Rectum
Authors: Ogunniyi S O , Makinde O N , Adeniyi A E O , Sanusi Y O , Lawal O O
Published: January 2017

A case of advanced extrauterine pregnancy involving the rectum and with passage of fetal limb through the anus is presented. The patient probably had a heterotopic gestation.
Cognitive Dissonance, de Kock and Odd Psychological Testimony
Authors: Foster Don , Nicholas Lionel
Published: January 2017

In the criminal trial of Eugene de Kock, aspects of his murderous rampage were attributed to his purported experience of cognitive dissonance (CD), emotional blunting and posttraumatic stress disorder. This paper will critique the use of CD in this particular case and explore the theoretical underpinnings of CD. A few examples from the court record will be used to illustrate the place of CD in explaining perpetrators' actions.
The Amnesty Process of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) with Specific Reference to Female Amnesty Applicants
Authors: Coleridge L
Published: January 2017

This paper provides a profile of female amnesty applicants and delineates the idiosyncrasies of the amnesty process. The percentage of female amnesty applicants is very small and the percentage that could be linked to perpetration is negligible.
The Linguistic Output of Psychopathic Offenders During a PCL-R Interview
Authors: Le Marina T. , Woodworth Michael , Gillman Lisa , Hutton Erin , Hare Robert D.
Published: January 2017

We used text analysis software to examine the linguistic features of the speech of 21 psychopathic and 45 other offenders during the interview part of a Psychopathy Checklist–Revised (PCL-R) assessment. Regression analysis was run on the linguistic categories to determine which were the best predictors of psychopathy scores. Relative to the other offenders, psychopaths used more disfluencies (“you know”) and personal pronouns, made fewer references to other people (e.g., personal names, family), and were also less emotionally expressive. In particular, a low frequency of anxiety-related words and a more frequent use of personal pronouns were the most significant predictors of PCL-R scores and accounted for 25% of the variance. These findings for the first time afford a unique glimpse into the language produced during the PCL-R assessment interview. In addition to enhancing our understanding of psychopathic speech, these results may provide interviewers additional insights relevant to the assessment and therapeutic process.
The Status and Prospects of Energy in China to 2005
Authors: Qi Zhou Feng
Published: January 2017

China's principal indigenous energy resources are: coal 800 billion tonne, hydroelectricity potential 680 GW, petroleum 60-80 billion tonne and large reserves of natural gas. Modernization of the country since 1949 has resulted in a 10% annual growth rate in the production of fossil fuels and hydroelectricity to make China third in a world ranking (912 Mtce in 1987). Forecasts for consumption in the next century are based on quadrupling industrial and agricultural production. Total demand is expected to be as high as 1450 Mtce. Coal will remain the chief source and by then nuclear is expected to contribute. Offshore oil development is receiving much attention and foreign partners are sought for its development.
Development of China's Electrical Power System
Authors: Denny David
Published: January 2017

The downtrend in electrical output, 10-14% 1977-79 to 6% 1979-84, was reversed to 7.4% between 1980 and 1987 when 35,000 Mw of capacity was added, transmission networks were expanded and regional grids linked. Part of this success arose from policies that replaced a monolithic system of bureaucratic planning to involvement of local interests and decentralization. Chinese organizations have also been able to take advantage of foreign technology and investment. Nevertheless, industrial output only reached 75-80% of its potential due to inadequate electric power supply.
The Greenhouse Effect and Its Connection with the Use of Fossil Fuels: the Concept of CO2 Emission Intensity
Authors: Balacéanu J.C. , Bertrand A. , Lacour J.J.
Published: January 2017

Measurement of the CO2 content of the atmosphere shows a constant increase over the last century connected to the increasing use of fossil fuels.

In the light of the energy outlook of the World Energy Conference, we have tried to assess the evolution of CO2 emissions due to the use of fossil fuels, which in itself is the consequence of world economic development. We have thus defined the concept of CO2 emission intensity as the amount of CO2 involved in a one percent growth in world industrial production.

Our estimate shows that in the middle of the next century CO2 emissions will reach a volume of several percent of the emissions of the CO2 flows caused by the leading atmosphere/ocean and atmosphere/ground physicochemical and biological balances. The reduction of these flows would require the replacement of fossil fuels and especially coal by nuclear energy or energy conservation of such an amplitude that it seems inaccessible.

It thus seems indispensable to refine models capable of defining, with sufficient accuracy, the CO2 content of the atmosphere and to compare the basis of theories concerning the possible impact of this content on the temperature of the Earth.
The Chukchi Sea Planning Area, Alaska: Structural Development, Basin Analysis and Hydrocarbon Potential
Authors: Lerche I. , Cao S. , Tang J. , Liu J.
Published: January 2017

Seismic stratigraphic and seismic fault evidence both show that the Central Chukchi basin is a north-trending, fault-controlled basin, which developed at the beginning of early Mississippian time. About 20 km thickness of sediments have been deposited in the basin. Using a simple flexural model a series of 3-dimensional basement motion patterns with time was produced. From these characteristic patterns two stages of basement evolution can be recognized: the first is basement subsidence controlled by regional extensional fault systems during the period from early Mississippian to later Jurassic: the second stage is basement evolution as two nearly separate blocks from the beginning of Early Cretaceous. The west block development is related to reactivation of the old fault system, while the subsidence of the east block is caused by tectonism and associated sediment loading due to progressive thrusting northward of the Brooks Range.

Quantitative basin modeling techniques show that many uncertainties occur when applying mathematical and computer models to simulate a sedimentary basin, especially in a frontier area where only limited data are available. In this study, quantitative basin modeling techniques applied to the Chukchi Sea Planning Area, Alaska, demonstrate how uncertainty can be handled. The Chukchi Sea Planning Area encompasses about 127,000 square kilometers of the northwestern Alaska continental shelf and lies offshore of the Natural Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. Only seismic data and a few remote onshore wells are available in the Planning Area. Compared with the North Slope of Alaska, the Planning Area has had a significantly different structural history. In addition, most of the strata in the Area are currently thermally mature to overmature and in the stage of generating dry gas. The prospective areas for oil are the margins of the central Chukchi Basin, such as the Chukchi platform, Herald Arch and northeast part of the basin.
A Probabilistic Interpretation of US Hydrocarbon Supply Shortfall, 1990-2000
Authors: Lerche I.
Published: January 2017

Ten results of assessments of hydrocarbon supply shortfall over the next decade are considered using a cumulative probabilistic framework.

Within resolution of the results, it is shown that, at a 90% confidence level, it is most likely (2/3 chance) that the shortfall supply will be less than about 2.2 million barrels per day by the year 2000, it is unlikely (90% chance) that the shortfall supply will exceed about 3.7 million barrels per day, but it is equally unlikely (90% chance) that the shortfall supply will be less than about 1 million barrels per day.

This probabilistic method for addressing model uncertainties then permits corporate and government decisions to be buttressed by a firmer footing than might have been thought to be the case based solely on the extreme ranges of the 10 individual results.
Do Changes in Natural Gas Futures Prices Influence Changes in Natural Gas Spot Prices?
Authors: Herbert John H.
Published: January 2017

Data on natural gas futures and spot markets are examined to determine if variability in price on futures markets influences variability in price on spot markets. Using econometric techniques, it is found that changes in futures contract prices do not precede changes in spot market prices.
U.S. Refining — Changing Supply and Slate Requirements
Authors: McSpadden Charles L.
Published: January 2017

With international refining industries facing a number of challenges in the near future, it seems clear that those who survive will be ones with the ability to turn serious problems into real opportunities. In the U.S. refining industry, challenges such as slow growth in product demand, increasing reliance on imported raw materials, and continued exposure to offshore exporting refineries will have critical effects on the ability of the industry to capitalize on available opportunities. Other challenges include the ability to tolerate continued declines in crude oil quality and the serious monetary questions related to compliance with environmental legislation, including air, soil, and water clean-up. This paper presents the challenges which the U.S. refining industry faces over the coming years, and seeks to address those issues which will impact the success or failure of the industry as a whole.

The paper begins with a focus on the demand for U.S. petroleum products, encompassing brief historical data and forecasts of demand for the next few years. Closely related to demand is the subject of U.S. refinery operations, including product import and yield patterns. In this vein, the paper offers forecasts of crude runs to stills, as well as forecasts of capacity changes.

Because profitability of U.S. refineries is affected by raw material costs, the paper next probes the possibilities resulting from world crude oil price fluctuations, considering the reemergence of Iraq as a market player. Forecasts of profit margins for U.S. refiners in 1998 are also offered.

Turning to crude oil supplies and qualities, the paper examines the downward trend of U.S. crude oil production, providing a forecast of the decline by 1998. An associated trend, that of U.S. crude oil imports, is also evaluated, with a discussion of the origins of these imports included.

The paper then presents a brief discussion of the principal recipient of Canadian crude oil exports, the U.S. Midwest (PADD II), encompassing statistics for refinery runs and deliveries of crudes. Volumes of Canadian crude exported to the region are also presented, as well as crude oil qualities in the region.

Finally, heavy crude oil prices are examined because of the degradation of average crude oil qualities consumed by U.S. refiners. Spreads between light and heavy crudes are contemplated, with a forecast for the current-dollar WTI/Maya price spread provided.
Trends in Real Costs of Crude Oil Production: The Middle East vs its Competitors
Authors: Stauffer Thomas R.
Published: January 2017

“Costs” reflect all exploration and development outlays and include a 15% real rate of return. Costs in itself is generally not a barrier to new developments in OPEC countries. Costs are notably higher for most non-OPEC countries where they do inhibit developments. Mexico and Russia are potentially low cost producers. In the North Seas the cost-price squeeze is crucial. Low prices have forestalled net increases in new non-OPEC production.
Long-Term Outlook for B.C. Gas Production and Deliverability in Relation to Domestic & Export Markets
Authors: Phelps Michael E.J.
Published: January 2017

Northeastern B.C. has several trillion cubic feet of established gas reserve and estimates of ultimate potential are as high as 50 tcf. Westcoast's current deliverability of 1.9 bcf/d is expected to rise by 30% over the next five years. Through-put on Westcoast's pipeline system reached 0.5 bcf/d in 1992. The new role of natural gas in the energy mix will lead to greater consumption such as in gas-fired cogeneration. The price will be “right” when supply and demand are evenly balanced.