bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of membrane electrodes for selective determination of lisinopril in pharmaceuticals
Authors: Rajendraprasad Nagaraju , Basavaiah Kanakapura
Published: December 2019

Background

Lisinopril (LNP) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor used as anti-hypertensive, cardiovascular, in anti-prophylactic and anti-diabetic nephropathy drug. Development of two new, simple, low cost, and selective membrane-based ion-selective electrodes has been proposed for the determination of LNP in pharmaceuticals.

Methods

The electrodes are based on poly(vinyl)chloride membrane doped with LNP-phosphotungstic acid (LNP-PTA) and LNP-phosphomolybdic acid (LNP-PMA) ion-pairs as molecular recognition materials.

Results

The developed LNP-PTA and LNP-PMA electrodes are applicable for the determination of LNP over the linear range of 5 × 10−5–2.4 × 10−3 mol l−1. The working pH ranges to measure potentials were 2.5 to 6.4 and 2.3 to 6.0 for LNP-PTA and LNP-PMA ISEs, respectively. The electrodes displayed the rapid Nernstian responses as revealed by the values of slopes 55.06 and 52.39 mV/decade, with limit of detection (LOD) values of 1.2 × 10−5and 1.18 × 10−5 mol l−1for LNP-PTA and LNP-PMA electrodes, respectively. The limits of quantitation (LOQ) values have also been calculated for both the electrodes. The developed electrodes have potential stability for up to 1 month and emerged as highly selective for the determination of LNP over other spiked ions and compounds.

Conclusions

The proposed electrodes have been validated and found that they are suitable for the determination of LNP in pharmaceuticals in pure form and in dosage forms. The results obtained in the analysis of LNP using proposed electrodes have been compared statistically with reference method’s results to assess the accuracy and precision. Robustness and ruggedness of the developed electrodes have also been checked and found satisfactory. The recovery studies have been performed by standard addition procedure to assess the role of excipients in tablets containing LNP and the results obtained are satisfactory.
Open educational resources in continuing adult education: development in the German-speaking area
Authors: Schön Sandra , Ebner Martin
Published: December 2019

Open Educational Resources (OER) allow many different uses in educational work that are excluded from traditional materials by copyright laws, such as modifying and republishing existing materials. This article examines the current role of OER in the field of adult education in German-speaking area, especially in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Although nowadays the topic of digitization is given a high strategic importance in continuing education in Switzerland, OER plays just a subordinate role there.
Comparison of biparametric and multiparametric MRI in the diagnosis of prostate cancer
Authors: Xu Lili , Zhang Gumuyang , Shi Bing , Liu Yanhan , Zou Tingting , Yan Weigang , Xiao Yu , Xue Huadan , Feng Feng , Lei Jing , Jin Zhengyu , Sun Hao
Published: December 2019

Purpose

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of biparametric MRI (bpMRI) and multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) for prostate cancer (PCa) and clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) and to explore the application value of dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI in prostate imaging.

Methods and materials

This study retrospectively enrolled 235 patients with suspected PCa in our hospital from January 2016 to December 2017, and all lesions were histopathologically confirmed. The lesions were scored according to the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System version 2 (PI-RADS V2). The bpMRI (T2-weighted imaging [T2WI], diffusion-weighted imaging [DWI]/apparent diffusion coefficient [ADC]) and mpMRI (T2WI, DWI/ADC and DCE) scores were recorded to plot the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The area under the curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value (NPV), and positive predictive value (PPV) for each method were calculated and compared. The patients were further stratified according to bpMRI scores (bpMRI ≥3, and bpMRI = 3, 4, 5) to analyse the difference in DCE MRI between PCa and non-PCa lesions (as well as between csPCa and non-csPCa).

Results

The AUC values for the bpMRI and mpMRI protocols for PCa were comparable (0.790 [0.732–0.840] and 0.791 [0.733–0.841], respectively). The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of bpMRI for PCa were 76.2, 79.5, 72.6, 75.8, and 76.6%, respectively, and the values for mpMRI were 77.4, 84.4, 69.9, 75.2, and 80.6%, respectively. The AUC values for the bpMRI and mpMRI protocols for the diagnosis of csPCa were similar (0.781 [0.722–0.832] and 0.779 [0.721–0.831], respectively). The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of bpMRI for csPCa were 74.0, 83.8, 66.9, 64.8, and 85.0%, respectively; and 73.6, 87.9, 63.2, 63.2, and 87.8%, respectively, for mpMRI. For patients with bpMRI scores ≥3, positive DCE results were more common in PCa and csPCa lesions (both P = 0.001). Further stratification analysis showed that for patients with a bpMRI score = 4, PCa and csPCa lesions were more likely to have positive DCE results (P = 0.003 and P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

The diagnostic accuracy of bpMRI is comparable with that of mpMRI in the detection of PCa and the identification of csPCa. DCE MRI is helpful in further identifying PCa and csPCa lesions in patients with bpMRI ≥3, especially bpMRI = 4, which may be conducive to achieving a more accurate PCa risk stratification. Rather than omitting DCE, we think further comprehensive studies are required for prostate MRI.
The effects of volume of interest delineation on MRI-based radiomics analysis: evaluation with two disease groups
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Zhong Liming , Zhang Bin , Zhang Lu , Du Haiyan , Lu Lijun , Zhang Shuixing , Yang Wei , Feng Qianjin
Published: December 2019

Background

Manual delineation of volume of interest (VOI) is widely used in current radiomics analysis, suffering from high variability. The tolerance of delineation differences and possible influence on each step of radiomics analysis are not clear, requiring quantitative assessment. The purpose of our study was to investigate the effects of delineation of VOIs on radiomics analysis for the preoperative prediction of metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and sentinel lymph node (SLN) metastasis in breast cancer.

Methods

This study retrospectively enrolled two datasets (NPC group: 238 cases; SLN group: 146 cases). Three operations, namely, erosion, smoothing, and dilation, were implemented on the VOIs accurately delineated by radiologists to generate diverse VOI variations. Then, we extracted 2068 radiomics features and evaluated the effects of VOI differences on feature values by the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). Feature selection was conducted by Maximum Relevance Minimum Redundancy combined with 0.632+ bootstrap algorithms. The prediction performance of radiomics models with random forest classifier were tested on an independent validation cohort by the area under the receive operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

The larger the VOIs changed, the fewer features with high ICCs. Under any variation, SLN group showed fewer features with ICC ≥ 0.9 compared with NPC group. Not more than 15% top-predictive features identical to the accurate VOIs were observed across feature selection. The differences of AUCs of models derived from VOIs across smoothing or dilation with 3 pixels were not statistically significant compared with the accurate VOIs (p > 0.05) except for T2-weighted fat suppression images (smoothing: 0.845 vs. 0.725, p = 0.001; dilation: 0.800 vs. 0.725, p = 0.042). Dilation with 5 and 7 pixels contributed to remarkable AUCs in SLN group but the opposite in NPC group. The radiomics models did not perform well when tested by data from other delineations.

Conclusions

Differences in delineation of VOIs affected radiomics analysis, related to specific disease and MRI sequences. Differences from smooth delineation or expansion with 3 pixels width around the tumors or lesions were acceptable. The delineation for radiomics analysis should follow a predefined and unified standard.
Bayesian smoothed small-areas analysis of urban inequalities in fertility across 1999–2013
Authors: León-Gómez Brenda Biaani , Gotsens Mercè , Marí-Dell’Olmo Marc , Domínguez-Berjón Ma. Felicitas , Luque-Fernandez Miguel Ángel , Martin Unai , Rodríguez-Sanz Maica , Pérez Gloria
Published: December 2019

Background

Since the 2008 economic crisis in Spain, overall fertility has continued to decrease, while urban inequalities have increased. There is a general lack of studies of fertility patterns in small-areas of Spanish cities. We explored the effects of the economic crisis on fertility during three time periods in urban settings in Spain.

Methods

We studied the distribution of fertility rates among women (15–49 years) from Spain and low-middle income countries (LIC) who were living in 13 Spanish cities. We mapped fertility and the MEDEA socioeconomic deprivation index in small-areas, and analyzed age-related trends in fertility rates. We performed an ecological regression analysis of fertility and the deprivation index in two pre-crisis periods (1999–2003 and 2004–2008) and one crisis period (2009–2013). Fertility rates were calculated and smoothed using the hierarchical Bayesian model (BYM).

Results

Higher fertility was generally associated with socioeconomic deprivation, with adjustment for the mothers’ age and nationality. While Spanish citizens tended to delay childbearing throughout the three study periods, fertility increased among Spanish adolescents from deprived urban areas during the economic crisis. There was a general decline in fertility among immigrants after the crisis, especially in southern cities. Overall, fertility appeared to be stable, with higher fertility in more deprived areas.

Conclusion

Increased unemployment and changes to government family policies may have contributed to delayed childbearing in Spain. For immigrants, more restrictive immigration policies may have played a crucial role in decreasing fertility rates. Reforming such policies will be key for better reproductive rights and improved fertility rates across all population cohorts in Spain.
Osteoblast behaviours on nanorod hydroxyapatite-grafted glass surfaces
Authors: Park So Jung , Gupta Kailash Chandra , Kim Hun , Kim Sukyoung , Kang Inn-Kyu
Published: December 2019

Background

The goal of this study is to obtain basic information to improve the bone adhesion of silica components, which are used as the main ingredient in glass ionomer cement (GIC). To achieve this, nanorod hydroxyapatite (nHA) was grafted to the surface of silica cover glass. Surface analysis confirmed nHA was joined to the glass surface and biocompatibility with osteoblasts was investigated.

Results

The grafting of nHA on the surface of slide cover glass (Glass) was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and contact angle (θ) measurement. MC3T3-E1 cells were more stretched out on the nHA-grafted cover glass (Glass-nHA) in comparison to the Glass. In addition, the Glass-nHA was more bioactive in supporting the proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells in comparison to cells seeded on the Glass.

Conclusion

The Glass-nHA was to be highly bioactive and this might be useful information for property modification of GIC.
Risk factor and symptoms of burnout in physiotherapists in the canton of Bern
Authors: Rogan Slavko , Verhavert Yanni , Zinzen Evert , Rey Fabienne , Scherer Aline , Luijckx Eefje
Published: December 2019

Background

Several studies have shown that the risk of burnout is high for people working in health professions. Many physiotherapists have either suffered from burn out personally or have seen colleagues suffer from it. In Switzerland, there is a lack of evidence concerning the risk factors and symptoms for burnout among physiotherapist.

The aim of this study was to empirically identify risk factors and symptoms of burnout in physiotherapists working in the canton of Bern.

Method

Based on interview guidelines, three semi-structured interviews with physiotherapists who experienced burn out themselves were conducted. The questions were divided into two main categories: risk factors and symptoms. For analysis, the interviews were transcribed and assigned to individual categories.

Results

High personal expectations and the pressure that comes with working on patients with chronic complaints were the most common answers from the participants. In this study these factors can be considered as important risk factors. In particular, emotional exhaustion and depression seem to be relevant burnout symptoms which lead to a decrease in personal performance.

Conclusion

In this study physiotherapists with burn out working in an acute care hospital tend to suffer from symptoms of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. For physiotherapists, sensitization to symptoms and risk factors of burnout is essential in daily work as well as in education. The results of this study might be of interest for physiotherapist or physiotherapists students to prevent and sensitive them for burnout symptoms.
Succession study on forensically important Coleoptera from India: a preliminary study and its forensic implications
Authors: Singh Neha , Bala Madhu
Published: December 2019

Background

Coleoptera is the second most important group of entomofauna associated with decomposition, yet little is known about its role in decomposition and postmortem colonization of carcasses in India and other parts of the world. Consequently, a preliminary study was conducted to study the succession of forensically important Coleoptera using goat carrion as an animal model.

Results

Five decomposition stages were observed during the experiment. A total of 1174 adult coleopterans belonging to 21 species and seven families were collected during this study. Throughout faunal succession, Histeridae and Silphidae were the dominant Coleopteran families, and they occurred mainly during the bloated and decay stages of decomposition;Necrophila(Calosilpha)iopterawas the dominant species present from the bloated to dry stage of putrescence. Two species,Pachylister bellicusandSaprinus sternifossawere reported for the first time from India.

Conclusion

This study provides baseline data regarding Coleopteran species associated with different decomposition stages, but more extensive studies need to be performed to develop a geographical database on arthropod succession from as many habitats as possible so that this kind of data can be used in forensic cases.
Inhibition of STAT3 signaling induces apoptosis and suppresses growth of lung cancer: good and bad
Authors: Kang Ju-Hee , Jang Yeong-Su , Lee Ha Jung , Lee Chang-Yong , Shin Dong Yun , Oh Seung Hyun
Published: December 2019

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) modulates a variety of genes involved in the regulation of critical functions, including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, metastasis, and immunity. For many cancers, elevated levels of STAT3 signaling have been associated with a poor prognosis and the development of chemotherapy resistance. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of a novel small-molecule inhibitor of STAT3, STX-0119, on the cell viability and survival of human lung cancer cells. STX-0119 inhibited activated STAT3 and the expression of STAT3-regulated oncoproteins such as c-Myc, cyclin D1, and survivin in lung cancer cells. STX-0119 also decreased the amount of STAT3 in the nuclear fraction as well as induced apoptosis of these lung cancer cell lines as evidenced by increases in apoptotic cells (Annexin V positive) and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage. The efficacy of STX-0119 in a mouse xenograft model was confirmed. However, a hematological side effect, which had not been previously reported, was observed. The level of white blood cells was significantly lowered when treated at the dose at which STX-0119 alone showed a significant tumor-suppressive effect. In conclusion, we suggest that STX-0119 may be a potent therapeutic agent against lung cancer. Consideration of the side effect suggests, it is necessary to study whether low-dose STX-0119 is effective for lung treatment with a combination of classic lung cancer therapeutics.
Prognostic value of different cardiac magnetic resonance imaging derived parameters in Egyptian patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction after successful reperfusion by primary percutaneous intervention
Authors: Kamal Diaa , S. Ibrahim Ahmed , Ahmed Nasr Merhan , S. Madkour Sherihan
Published: December 2019

Background

Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is an extremely accurate and useful modality that can give much data about myocardial damage after acute myocardial infarction and consequently can give a good idea about long-term prognosis. Unfortunately, this modality is still underused in Egypt. We tried to assess the prognostic significance of different parameters derived from CMR in Egyptian patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated by primary percutaneous intervention (PPCI). Twenty-five patients who presented with acute STEMI and were successfully reperfused by PPCI within 12 h from symptoms onset were included. CMR was performed 2–4 days after PPCI. Six months of long-term follow-up for major adverse cardiovascular events (re-infarction, new-onset heart failure and cardiac death) was done. CMR-derived parameters (edema volume, area at risk, infarction volume, infarction percentage, microvascular obstruction volume, microvascular obstruction percentage, myocardial salvage and myocardial salvage index) were analyzed in relation to incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Results

Seven patients suffered from MACE. Univariate logistic regression analysis showed a significant correlation between edema volume (P = 0.04), area at risk (P = 0.05), infarction percentage (P = 0.05) and the occurrence of MACE. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that infarction percentage (P = 0.05) is the best parameter that can predict MACE.

Conclusion

Infarction percentage is potentially the most important prognosticator derived from CMR in Egyptian patients with acute STEMI successfully reperfused by PPCI.
Characterization of coumarins from Ipomoea mauritiana Jacq by LC-APCI-MS/MS analysis and evaluation of its anti-amnesic activity
Authors: C.T Sulaiman , M Deepak , A.R Sunil , K.R Lijini , Balachandran Indira
Published: December 2019

Background

Ipomoea mauritiana is one of the source plants of Vidari, an Ayurvedic drug used as Medhyarasayana (rejuvenating drug). In this current study, coumarins were separated from tuberous root of I. mauritiana and characterization of the coumarin fraction was done by LC-MS/MS analysis by atmospheric pressure chemical ionization method. Anti-amnesic activity was evaluated against scopolamine induced amnesia in Wistar rats.

Results

Mass spectroscopic characterization of coumarin fraction directed to the tentative identification of coumarins such as 7-hydroxy-6-methoxy coumarin, 7-hydroxycoumarin, 5-methoxy-6,7-furanocoumarin, 5,7-dimethoxycoumarin, and 6-hydroxy-7-methoxy-4-phenylcoumarin. Aqueous extract of I. mauritiana at a dose of 100 and 200 mg/kg showed significant anti-amnesic activity against scopolamine-induced changes in step through latency and working memory errors.

Conclusion

The findings of the study showed that I. mauritiana is a rich source of coumarins and possessed significant anti-amnesic activity. The study concluded the scientific basis of using I. mauritiana as rejuvenating drug in Ayurveda.

Graphical abstract
Residual Adrenal Function in Autoimmune Addison’s Disease—Effect of Dual Therapy With Rituximab and Depot Tetracosactide
Authors: Napier Catherine , Gan Earn H , Mitchell Anna L , Gilligan Lorna C , Rees D Aled , Moran Carla , Chatterjee Krishna , Vaidya Bijay , James R Andrew , Mamoojee Yaasir , Ashwell Simon , Arlt Wiebke , Pearce Simon H S
Published: December 2019

Context

In autoimmune Addison’s disease (AAD), exogenous glucocorticoid (GC) therapy is an imperfect substitute for physiological GC secretion. Patients on long-term steroid replacement have increased morbidity, reduced life expectancy, and poorer quality of life.

Objective

The objective of this article is to restore adrenocortical steroidogenic function in recent-onset AAD.

Design

An open-label, multicenter trial of immunotherapy and trophic stimulation in new-onset AAD was conducted. Serial measurement of serum and urine corticosteroids at baseline and throughout a 72-week follow-up period was performed.

Setting

This study was conducted at the

endocrine departments and clinical research facilities at 5 UK tertiary centers.

Patients

Thirteen participants (9 female, 4 male; age 19-64 years) were included with AAD confirmed by high adrenocorticotropin, low circulating cortisol (basal < 100 nmol/L or post-tetracosactide < 300 nmol/L), and positive serum 21-hydroxylase antibodies.

Intervention

All participants received dual therapy with B-lymphocyte–depleting immunotherapy (rituximab 1 g given twice) and repeated depot tetracosactide (1 mg on alternate days for 12 weeks).

Main Outcome Measure

Restoration of normal GC secretion (stimulated cortisol > 550 nmol/L) at week 48 was the main outcome measure.

Results

Ten of 13 (77%) participants had detectable stimulated serum cortisol (26-265 nmol/L) at trial entry. Following intervention, 7 of 13 (54%) had an increase in stimulated cortisol measurement, with a peak response of 325 nmol/L at week 18 in 1 participant. Increased steroid metabolites, assayed by urine gas chromatography–mass spectrometry at week 12 and week 48, was detected in 8 of 13 (62%) individuals, reflecting an increase in endogenous steroidogenesis. Four of 13 had residual adrenal function at 72 weeks.

Conclusion

Combined treatment with rituximab and depot tetracosactide did not restore normal adrenal function. Nevertheless, adrenocortical plasticity is demonstrated in some patients, and this has the potential to be exploited to improve adrenal function.
Th1 Chemokines in Autoimmune Endocrine Disorders
Authors: Fallahi Poupak , Ferrari Silvia Martina , Ragusa Francesca , Ruffilli Ilaria , Elia Giusy , Paparo Sabrina Rosaria , Antonelli Alessandro
Published: December 2019

Context

The CXC chemokine receptor CXCR3 and its chemokines CXCL10, CXCL9, and CXCL11 are implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Here, we review these chemokines in autoimmune thyroiditis (AT), Graves disease (GD), thyroid eye disease (TED), type 1 diabetes (T1D), and Addison’s disease (AAD).

Evidence Acquisition

A PubMed review of the literature was conducted, searching for the above-mentioned chemokines in combination with AT, GD, TED, T1D, and AAD.

Evidence Synthesis

Thyroid follicular cells in AT and GD, retroorbital cells in TED (fibroblasts, preadipocytes, myoblasts), β cells and islets in T1D, and adrenal cells in AAD respond to interferon-γ (IFN-γ) stimulation producing large amounts of these chemokines. Furthermore, lymphocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) are in part responsible for the secreted Th1 chemokines. In AT, GD, TED, T1D, and AAD, the circulating levels of these chemokines have been shown to be high. Furthermore, these chemokines have been associated with the early phases of the autoimmune response in all the above-mentioned disorders. High levels of these chemokines have been associated also with the “active phase” of the disease in GD, and also in TED. Other studies have shown an association with the severity of hypothyroidism in AD, of hyperthyroidism in GD, with severity of TED, or with fulminant T1D.

Conclusion

The reviewed data have shown the importance of the Th1 immune response in different endocrine autoimmune diseases, and many studies have suggested that CXCR3 and its chemokines might be considered as potential targets of new drugs for the treatment of these disorders.
Clinical and Administrative Leadership in Community-Based Residential Programs
Authors: Axer Henryk
Published: December 2019

Oregon’s Public Mental Health System includes a continuum of small community- based residential programs offering mental health treatment and 24/7 personal care support for adults experiencing severe mental illness. A team of several mental health paraprofessionals working under the direction of the facility administrator and the Master level therapist strive to gently challenge residents to set personally meaningful goals, practice functional skills and slowly take charge of their lives in the community. The author asserts that the manner in which daily operational and behavioral challenges are resolved by the treatment team, affects residents’ lives not less than strictly therapeutic interventions. This paper has a twofold aim: 1) To characterize leadership, organization and staff communication as building blocks of the collaborative, person-centered and strength-based residential treatment; 2) To show how clinical and administrative processes must interplay to create a spirt of recovery and optimism in home-like community residential facilities.
DA IMPORTÂNCIA ESTRATÉGICA NA ECONOMIA COLONIAL AOS PROCESSOS DE FRAGMENTAÇÃO TERRITORIAL NO NORDESTE PARAENSE: DINÂMICAS TERRITORIAIS E REPRODUÇÃO DO ESPAÇO RURAL NO MUNICÍPIO DE MARACANÃ (PARÁ/BRASIL)
Authors: De Castro Carlos Jorge Nogueira , Sombra Daniel , Barros Filho João , Sousa Nonato
Published: December 2019

A compreensão do processo de colonização e formação territorial do Nordeste Paraense, torna-se de suma importância para a interpretação de fenômenos espaciais que se perpetuam nesse contexto espacial. Desta forma deve-se enfatizar a valor estratégico que o território da extinta comarca de Cintra, atualmente município de Maracanã teve no processo de colonização da Zona Bragantina. Assim o presente artigo tem como objetivo apresentar as principais dinâmicas territoriais responsáveis pelo processo de formação territorial de Maracanã, levando principalmente em consideração o sistema de transportes como meio estruturador das relações espaciais. Para anteder tal objetivo recorremos à pesquisa qualitativa que auxiliou no levantamento bibliográfico, na coleta de dados estatísticos de instituições públicas, e também na realização de trabalhos de campo nos períodos de 2016 e 2017, que aliados a cartografia e o geoprocessamento de imagens permitiram a confecções de representações cartográficas essências para a realização da análise e discussão do tema. Por fim chegou-se à conclusão de que para compreender os processos de fragmentação e estruturação espacial do Nordeste Paraense, em especial a zona bragantina, devemos considerar as intencionalidades dos agentes hegemônicos locais que realizam constantes modificações socioespaciais de acordo com seus interesses.
APLICAÇÃO DE TÉCNICAS DE ANÁLISE ESPACIAL PARA MAPEAR ÁREAS SUSCETÍVEIS A ENCHENTES URBANAS
Authors: Rudniak Andréia , Oliveira Filho Paulo Costa , Andrade Aparecido Ribeiro de
Published: December 2019

Conhecer as áreas suscetíveis à ocorrência de enchentes contribui para o planejamento urbano e para a minimização dos efeitos a que a população está exposta. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar locais que apresentam propensão a enchentes na área urbana da principal bacia hidrográfica da cidade de Irati, PR. Para este mapeamento foi utilizado um Sistema de Informações Geográficas (SIG) associado a metodologias como lógica fuzzy e análise hierárquica (AHP). Para tanto, optou-se pela altitude, declividade, distância dos cursos d’água e grau de urbanização como critérios de análise. Os resultados mostraram que 3,645 km² do perímetro urbano de Irati, cerca de 13,8% da área de estudo, apresentam algum grau de suscetibilidade a enchentes. A geração de mapas com graus de suscetibilidade variando de 0 (nula) a 1 (alta) foi um bom indicador visual para identificar pontos de maior ou menor riscos de extravasamento do leito dos rios.
ESTIMATIVA DA RECARGA DAS ÁGUAS SUBTERRÂNEAS NO SISTEMA AQUÍFERO BAURU (SAB)
Authors: Gonçalves Vitor Fidelis Monteiro , Manzione Rodrigo Lilla
Published: December 2019

Estimar os valores de recarga das águas subterrâneas é importante para entender a dinâmica de sistemas aquíferos perturbados por forçantes climatológicas e pelo uso e ocupação da terra. Este trabalho estimou as taxas de recarga das águas subterrâneas pelo método da variação da superfície livre em área do Sistema Aquífero Bauru (SAB) para a Estação Ecológica e na Floresta Estadual de Santa Barbara nos anos hidrológicos 2014/2015 e 2015/2016. Durante esse período a região passou por dois períodos climáticos distintos: um ano considerado normal (com taxas de precipitação em torno da média histórica dos últimos 30 anos) seguido de um ano com a presença do fenômeno ENOS (El Niño Oscilação Sul) aumentando a precipitação em 35,44% quando comparado ao ano anterior. Os resultados demonstraram, apoiados na espacialização do fenômeno pela área estudada, que apesar das diferenças nas taxas de precipitação, o percentual de recarga foi o mesmo para os dois anos, não evidenciando diferenças entre as áreas com vegetação de Cerrado e reflorestamentos com espécies exóticas como Pinus e Eucalipto.
INTERAÇÕES ESPACIAIS E PROMOÇÃO IMOBILIÁRIA COMO VETORES DA METROPOLIZAÇÃO DO ESPAÇO DE MARITUBA/PA
Authors: Fernandes José Henrique Da Silva , Ribeiro Willame De Oliveira
Published: December 2019

Marituba compõe a Região Metropolitana de Belém e vem sendo cada vez mais marcada pelo processo de metropolização, o que se expressa em diversos fatores, entre eles, as interações espaciais e a promoção imobiliária. A problemática a ser aqui desvendada pode ser sintetizada na indagação que se segue: como as interações espaciais entre Marituba e os demais componentes do espaço metropolitano de Belém expressam a metropolização de Marituba e como isso se relaciona com a promoção imobiliária? Mediante o desenvolvimento de procedimentos metodológicos, como construção de referencial teórico, levantamentos documentais e trabalhos de campo, pôde-se constatar importantes transformações no espaço de Marituba e a ampliação da sua conectividade no âmbito do espaço metropolitano. Observou-se ainda que a promoção imobiliária está diretamente relacionada e esse processo, expressando tanto a intensificação das interações espaciais caracterizadoras da condição metropolitana quanto a natureza da metropolização de Belém.
Rejecting labels
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: December 2019

Despite the increasing ‘top down’ pressure to impose literacy and maths standards on young children, it is important to remain focused on ‘the unique child’ and the creativity at its heart, argues Sue Allingham.
A question of control
Authors: Cowley Sue
Published: December 2019

Concerns are being raised about the ‘behaviour and attitudes’ section of the new Ofsted framework as it does not seem to share the early years sector's interpretation of self regulation.
Frame the action
Authors: Manners Lala
Published: December 2019

Observing children moving is a wonderful privilege. Visual and audio recordings are two of the most effective mechanisms, which allow for staff collaboration and objectivity.
Finding ways to build children's sensory skills
Authors: Brown Paula
Published: December 2019

Paula Brown takes a look at the theory underpinning how children process sensory information and provides practical tips on helping them integrate their experiences and control their responses.
Opportunities to mix
Authors: Webster Chloe
Published: December 2019

Operating mixed age social structures can help all children to thrive. While younger children imitate language and behaviour, older ones enjoy becoming caring and responsible.
What a feeling!
Authors: Norman Amanda
Published: December 2019

It is good for children to explore their emotions and begin to express what they feel. Find out how Froebel's theories are helpful in suggesting how safe spaces can be created to facilitate this.
Grasping the dynamics of creative play
Authors: Arnott Lorna , Duncan Pauline
Published: December 2019

Lorna Arnott and Pauline Duncan urge us to see play as a ‘multi-faceted, dynamic endeavour, which evolves alongside society, thinking and cultures’. Their fascinating research suggests ways practitioners can support creative play in the setting, within a vibrant pedagogical culture.
Creating a buzz
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: December 2019

Greg Lane's practice as senior nursery manager at the London Early Year's Foundation (LEYF) nursery in Soho is fizzing with a creativity that befits its unique, city centre location. Karen Hart discovers how his children benefit.
Running wild
Authors: Doar Nigel
Published: December 2019

Evidence from new research commissioned by The Wildlife Trusts underlines that the education system must embrace the power of nature to ensure that children acquire well-being and a sense of responsibility for the planet.
‘Ten brown cones’
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: December 2019

Jenni Clarke provides a guide to how mathematics can be enhanced through in the moment planning, with continuous provision which helps practitioners to identify and extend learning opportunities for all children.
An open book
Authors: Hewson Claire
Published: December 2019

Book corners need to be inviting and accessible spaces to ensure their constant use. Their popularity will soar when you ask for children's input on how they would like them to be planned and stocked.
Do it yourself
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: December 2019

Encouraging children to build their own dens and special spaces will help them to extend their physical capabilities, and experiment with ideas and resources. Observe how they persist with trial and error.
Journal Scan
Authors: Welyczko Nikki
Published: December 2019

Nikki Welyczko, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, provides a brief overview of recently published nursing and health articles
Rethinking exercise after colorectal cancer
Authors: Williams Julia
Published: December 2019

Members of Gastrointestinal Nursing's editorial board review recent books on gastrointestinal health and approaches to care
Florence Nightingale at 200: celebrating her bicentenary
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: December 2019

Ian Peate, Editor-in-Chief of the British Journal of Nursing, examines the enduring legacy of Victorian nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale
A lordly launch for stoma care: the value of specialist nursing
Authors: Rolls Natasha
Published: December 2019

Natasha Rolls, Lead Stoma Care Nurse Specialist at Bristol Royal Infirmary, introduces a project to raise the profile of stoma care nurses
A dedicated stoma care counselling service to address the psychological needs of ostomates
Authors: Bird Andrew
Published: December 2019

Support from a specialist counsellor can help overcome the emotional challenges of stoma formation
Developing specialist nursing practice: participants' experiences of a nursing scholarship programme
Authors: Burch Jennie , Taylor Claire
Published: December 2019

Background:

In recognising the difficulties that many nurses face in developing their knowledge and skills to specialist level, alongside the continued demand for specialist nursing roles, it is essential to find ways to build the next generation of specialist nurses. A specially designed nursing scholarship programme was devised to address this issue. Feedback from the scholars' perspective is presented to demonstrate the benefits and enablers of, as well as barriers to, undertaking such a programme.

Methods:

Six scholars were each interviewed at the beginning and end of their scholarship periods, and 12 semi-structured interviews were completed and summarised. Data were examined using thematic analysis.

Findings:

Examination of the interview data revealed which key aspects of the scholarship programme the scholars believed had helped develop their specialist nursing practice. Factors that enabled the development of clinical, academic and specialist skills, as well as perceived improvements in personal attributes, were identified. The main barriers highlighted were lack of knowledge, experience and confidence. The benefits of this scholarship programme were evident, with all six feeling ready to be a specialist nurse and to secure a specialist role at the end of the programme.

Conclusions:

Through a carefully planned and supported educational and clinical programme, it is possible to develop specialist nurses for the future. For this development to occur, it is essential to have supportive colleagues and a structured programme designed to develop the necessary skills and attributes required in a specialist nursing role.
Risk feeding for dysphagia in Huntington's disease: nutrition, care planning and capacity to consent in a progressive neurological condition
Authors: Paterson Laura
Published: December 2019

In severe dysphagia, risk of aspiration or choking can make it unsafe to swallow food and drink. Nutrition can instead be delivered via tube feeding with a gastrostomy, but this can be contraindicated and denies patients the pleasure and social connection of eating and drinking. Therefore, patients may prefer to continue unsafe oral intake, known as risk feeding. Patients should undergo assessment of dysphagia and be asked about their preferences before deciding how to proceed. According to the Mental Capacity Act 2005, if patients are not competent to provide valid informed consent, a person with power of attorney or treating clinician must make the decision in their best interests and in respect to their previously expressed or implied wishes. Decision-making should be shared between members of the multidisciplinary team and the patient's family. Huntington's disease is a progressive neurological condition that, in its later stages, is associated with dysphagia and cognitive or communication impairments that can hinder capacity to consent. A case study is presented of a patient with Huntington's and dysphagia, which illustrates the importance of a collaborative, structured approach to advanced care planning for managing nutrition in a progressive neurological disease in an inpatient setting.
Helping paediatric patients transition to adult services
Authors: Harrison Penny
Published: December 2019

Penny Harrison, Senior Lecturer in Adult Nursing at De Montfort University, Leicester, discusses how to overcome barriers to effective transitional care
Research round-up
Authors: Jack Kathryn
Published: December 2019

Kathryn Jack, PhD research fellow at the University of Nottingham and specialist nurse at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, provides a overview of recently published, liver-related nursing and health articles
The One Recovery Bucks integrated community pathway for hepatitis C
Authors: Parker Mary , Sander-Hess Carola , Maggs James
Published: December 2019

A streamlined linkaged-to-care pathway can dramatically increase the uptake of screening, assessment and treatment in hard-to-reach populations, which is an essential part of achieving elimination of the hepatitis C virus
External jugular venepuncture: increasing access to diagnosis and treatment of viral hepatitis in people who inject drugs
Authors: Jack Kathryn
Published: December 2019

Phlebotomy is essential for diagnosis and assessment of disease progression and treatment response. Blood samples with traditional techniques can be difficult to obtain from or refused by those with hard-to-access peripheral veins, especially people who inject drugs (PWID). Many PWID are infected with the blood-borne viruses, such as hepatitis C, which can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma. Blood samples to support the diagnosis and management of these conditions can be taken using external jugular venepuncture (EJV), which avoids risks of multiple attempts, damage to the veins or accidentally accessing an artery. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to prepare the patient for EJV, find the external jugular vein and safely collect a blood sample. It also assesses the limited evidence available to support its use by nurses.
Painless obstructive jaundice leading to diagnosis of extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: a case study and review
Authors: Clark Deborah
Published: December 2019

A 26-year-old woman presented with jaundice, which results from raised serum bilirubin (hyperbilirubinemia) as a consequence of a number of underlying pathologies. Timely diagnosis is challenging but essential for prognosis and any possible treatment. To compare the many differential diagnoses, the hepatobiliary nurse specialist undertook a systems review and arranged an abdominal ultrasound and blood tests. The patient's medical history excluded autoimmune and metabolic conditions, including haemolytic anaemia, primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, Wilson's disease and Gilbert syndrome. In terms of infectious causes of jaundice, schistosomiasis, liver flukes and Weil syndrome, as well as cholelithiasis and cholecystitis were also excluded. However, some symptoms and biomarkers linked with hepatitis A, B and C warranted consideration. Neoplastic disorders were thought unlikely due to the patient's young age but signs of biliary obstruction meant hepatobiliary cancer could not be excluded. Computerised tomography and endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography showed an obstructive stricture resulting from a 4.4 cm-wide periportal mass, although biliary brush cytology was inconclusive as to its malignancy. Endoscopic ultrasound and fine needle aspiration confirmed extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Magnetic resonance imaging staging confirmed metastases that precluded surgery, and the patient died 4 months later.
Challenges in the use of corticosteroids in the management of autoimmune hepatitis
Authors: Chapman Roger W , Aspinall Richard J , Trivedi Palak , Wright Gavin , Heneghan Michael
Published: December 2019

Autoimmune hepatitis is widely assumed by health-care professionals to be a disease that is easily controlled through the use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants but recent studies in the UK indicate highly variable treatment regimens and often unsatisfactory treatment outcomes, such as dependence on long-term high-dose steroids and ongoing need for liver transplantation in some cases. The therapeutic use of the systemically acting corticosteroid prednisolone results in unacceptable side effects in many patients. Recent evidence suggests that it is not always necessary to use high-dose steroids (>0.5 mg/kg/d) to attain remission; and side effects may also be minimised through more targeted therapy with the less systemically-absorbed corticosteroid, budesonide. The authors offer advice on the stratification of treatment for these patients and suggest changes to improve the services available for people with autoimmune hepatitis in the UK.
A competence framework for liver transplantation
Authors: Clayton Michelle
Published: December 2019

Michelle Clayton, chair of the British Liver Nurses' Association, discusses new standards for liver transplantation from the Royal College of Nursing
Peer support in hepatitis C
Authors: Casley Iona
Published: December 2019

Iona Casley, Coordinator at HCV Action, explains how peer-support workers can help diagnose and treat hepatitis C in hard-to-reach populations
Verbal Linguistic Intelligence of the First-Year Students of Indonesian Education Program: A Case in Reading Subject
Authors: Hasanudin Cahyo , Fitrianingsih Ayu
Published: December 2019

This study aimed to describe seven indicators of students’ verbal linguistic intelligence in reading subject. It used a qualitative research method. The subjects of this study were 30 students consisted of 9 male and 21 female students. They took the reading subject in the second semester of the first year. They were given a test of verbal-linguistic intelligence. Seven students were selected to be interviewed because they have verbal-linguistic intelligence and good communication. To find out the validity of the data, the researchers used triangulation of the test results and the results of interviews and triangulation of the second researcher and research assistants. Furthermore, the data were analyzed using the content analysis method which consisted of three steps, they were data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing/verification. The results of the study show that there were seven indicators of verbal-linguistic intelligence of students in reading subject, first, having excellent initial knowledge in mentioning words, second, enjoying wordplay with Scrabble, third, entertaining themselves and other students by playing tongue twisters, fourth, explaining the meaning of the words written and discussed, fifth, having difficulties in mathematics lesson, sixth, their conversation refers to something they have read and heard, and the last, having the ability to write poetry based on personal experience.
The Correlation between Metacognitive Skills and Critical Thinking Skills at the Implementation of Four Different Learning Strategies in Animal Physiology Lectures
Authors: Amin Astuti Muh. , Corebima Aloysius Duran , Zubaidah Siti , Mahanal Susriyati
Published: December 2019

The empowerment of metacognitive skills has an important role in increasing the capacity of critical thinking and active control of students' cognitive processes in learning. Metacognitive skills can be enhanced through the implementation of learning strategies involving higher-order thinking. The RQA, ADI, RQA integrated with ADI are constructivistic learning strategies that can accommodate these skills. The researches specifically examining the correlation between metacognitive skills and critical thinking skills at the implementation of RQA, ADI, and RQA integrated with ADI learning strategies are still rarely found. This research is a correlational research, aiming at revealing the correlation between metacognitive skills and critical thinking skills. The data of metacognitive skills and critical thinking skills are collected by using a valid and reliable essay test. The samples of this research are the fourth semester (IV) biology education students programming Animal Physiology course in the 2016/2017 academic year consisting of 109 students. The results of this research show that (1) there was a significant correlation between metacognitive skills and critical thinking skills at the implementation of the four learning strategies, (2) the regression equations analyzed using Anova obtain regression lines (not coincide), and non parallel regression lines (intersected); meaning that there is a difference in the increase rate and magnitude of the critical thinking skills influenced by the four learning strategies. It is expected that the teachers and the lecturers always strive to improve the quality of the learning process through the implementation of active and constructive learning strategies.
The Significance of Motivations and Selected Effects of Student Employment in the Course of Studies: A Case of an Economics Study Program in Poland
Authors: Ostoj Izabela
Published: December 2019

The article addresses the problem of gainful employment undertaken during full-time studies. It analyzes the importance of students’ motivations to work and the selected effects of combining studies and work. It refers to areas that have not yet been investigated by other researchers. The data used in the article come from the survey conducted by the author at the Faculty of Economics, at the University of Economics in Katowice through 2014-2017. The study revealed a strong relationship between the motivations to start work during studies and the following factors: the alignment of a chosen job to the field of study, the opportunity to develop new skills and competencies valued on the labor market, the willingness to continue working for the same employer after graduation, and an employer’s intention to employ a student after graduation. Another connection was identified between the character of the work performed by students and their readiness to change if given another opportunity. The relationship, albeit relatively weak, was also confirmed between the character of the work performed and difficulties experienced by students with combining work with studies and the ability to maintain a balance between time assigned to studying, work and leisure.