bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparative study on antibiotics and no antibiotics in clean surgical cases
Authors: Gudde Prasanna Praveen , Ranganath Harindranath
Published: January 2020

Background: Surgical wound infection is one of the most commonly occurring complications and its incidence has been lowest in clean surgical cases. Prophylactic antibiotics are routinely used in all surgical cases. But this is not indicated in clean surgical cases. Due to undue fear of infections, many practicing surgeons use antibiotics in clean surgical cases. Misuse of antimicrobials leads to drug toxicity, super infections, high health care cost and colonization of wards by highly resistant microbes. Objective of the study is to compare the frequencies of wound site infections in patients undergoing clean elective general surgery operations with no antibiotics and single dose prophylactic antibiotics.Methods: A comparative study of 100 patients undergoing elective clean surgeries at Victoria Hospital from November 2012 to October 2014 was undertaken. Data was collected by history taking, clinical examination, hematological and microbiological investigations and follow up.Results: Two cases in each group had post-operative infections noticed on the day 2 wound examination. All the four cases had culture positive with isolates being S. aureus in three and E. coli in single case.Conclusions: Post-operative wound infections noted in two cases in both the groups do not have any clinical and statistical significance; hence single dose of prophylactic antibiotics is not required in all the clean surgical cases. A simple size of large number is required in this area of research to conclude with statistical significance.
Comparison of efficacy of large tissue bites versus small tissue bites for midline abdominal wound closure
Authors: Mustaqrasool Tappa Mahammad , Dikshit Bharat , Phalgune Deepak
Published: January 2020

Background: Incisional hernia is common complication after median laparotomy, with reported incidence varying between 2% and 20%. For prevention of incisional hernia, many clinical trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that mass closure technique with simple running suture is good option to close midline incision. An attempt was made in this study to compare efficacy of large tissue bites vs small tissue bites for midline abdominal wound closure.Methods: Three hundred thirty patients admitted for midline laparotomy were randomized into Group A, and Group B. Group A, and Group B patients underwent abdominal closure by small bites technique, and large bites technique respectively. Patients were followed at 7th postoperative day, 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months. Primary outcome measures were incidence of incisional hernia, incidence of postoperative complications like post-operative pain, surgical site infections, wound dehiscence whereas, secondary outcome measure was fascial closure time. Inter-group comparison of categorical, and continuous variables was done using Chi-square test/Fisher’s exact test and unpaired ‘t’ test respectively.Results: Incidence of incisional hernia was significantly higher in large bites suture technique compared to small bites suture technique at 12 months follow up. Mean time required for fascial closure time was significantly higher in small bite group compared to large bite group. There was no statistically significant difference in postoperative pain, surgical site infections, and wound dehiscence among the two groups.Conclusions: The rate of incisional hernia was lower in small bites technique compared with large bites technique in midline abdominal incisions.
Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Appendicitis score for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in comparison with the Alvarado score
Authors: Reddy Mannem G. K. , Mahidhar Reddy V.
Published: January 2020

Background: Different scoring systems have been created to increase diagnostic accuracy, and they are inexpensive, non-invasive, and easy to use and reproduce. The modified Alvarado score is widely used in emergency services. The Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Appendicitis (RIPASA) score was formulated in 2010 and has greater sensitivity and specificity. The aim of our article was to compare the usefulness of modified RIPASA score and Alvarado score in the diagnosis of patients with abdominal pain and suspected acute appendicitis.Methods: A prospective study was undertaken among 100 cases presenting with signs and symptoms suggestive of acute appendicitis, conducted at the Narayana medical college hospital, Nellore. The questionnaires used for the evaluation process were applied to the patients suspected of having appendicitis.Results: A total of 100 patients, 95% underwent laparoscopic procedure. The cut-off threshold point of the Alvarado score was set at 7.0, which yielded a sensitivity of 65% and a specificity of 52%. The positive predictive value was 65%. The cut-off threshold point of the modified RIPASA score was set at 7.5, which yielded 90% sensitivity and 72% specificity. The positive predictive value was 89% and the NPV was 30%.Conclusions: On comparing both the scores, sensitivity and specificity was higher for modified RIPASA score. The positive predictive value was higher for the Alvarado and negative predictive value was higher for RIPASA score. Bothe p values were statistically significant.
A prospective study to determine the application of site, ischemia, neuropathy, bacterial infection and depth scoring in the outcome and management of diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Venkataramana Ashwath V. H. , B. D. Manjunath , Razack Abdul , H. R. Harindranath , Arish Hussain
Published: January 2020

Background: The objective of the study was to classify diabetic ulcers based on the recently described SINBAD classification system and to determine the management based on SINBAD score.Methods: Prospective study, conducted in Victoria Hospital from November 2017 to May 2019.  120 patients with diabetic ulcers were classified according to the SINBAD classification system, wherein a score of one is given for site beyond forefoot, presence of ischemia, presence of neuropathy, bacterial infection, area >1 cm2 and depth beyond subcutaneous tissue. The wounds are scored at presentation and the outcome are evaluated according to respective score.Results: In this study 120 patients with mean age of 50.12 years were included. Lower socio-economic groups correlated with higher incidence of diabetic foot. According to SINBAD classification 42.5% had forefoot, 57.5% had hind foot wounds, 56.3% were purely ischemic ulcers, 19.2% were neuropathic ulcers, 40.0% were neuro-ischemic ulcers 68.3% had bacterial infection, 70.8% had ulcer, size >1 cm2, 55% had ulcer deeper than skin & sub cutaneous tissues. Healing probability in score 1 was 100%, score 2 was 87.5%, Score 3 was 70%, score 4 was 58.6% healing, score 5 was 7.1% and score 6 was 1.1% healing (p=0.004). Ischemia, neuropathy, bacterial infection, area >1 cm2 and depth beyond subcutaneous tissue had significant effect on healing.Conclusions: SINBAD classification system includes 6 parameters, describing the pathological evolution of diabetic ulcers. Treatment protocols can be determined based on the score. The system is easy to score and apply in routine practise.
Prospective study of laparoscopic surgery in paediatric patients
Authors: Pipal Dharmendra Kumar , Kumar Neeraj , Kothari Saurabh
Published: January 2020

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy and laparoscopic appendectomy is gold standard treatment modality for symptomatic cholelithiasis and appendicitis. Laparoscopy in paediatric patient have many limitations and  factors restricting its use in paediatric patient are smaller surface area for access, compliant abdominal wall,  the liver margin  below the rib cage, the bladder being  an intra-abdominal structure, the viscera close to  anterior abdominal wall and small sized abdominal cavity and conventional instruments too long for paediatrics use.  The so-called obliterated structures like umbilical vein, umbilical artery and urachus remain relatively large and partially patent in infants further restricting use of therapeutic laparoscopy.Methods: The present study was carried out in Department of General Surgery, MDM Hospital, Dr. S. N. Medical College, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Total 50 patients were included in the present study of laparoscopic surgery in paediatric patients below 14 years of age and were studied in terms of, duration of surgery, postoperative pain, analgesic requirement, postoperative hospital stay, intraoperative and postoperative complication and factors necessitating conversion of laparoscopic procedure to open method.Results: As per the present study inguinal hernia was most common diagnosis (48%) followed by hydrocele (22%) and acute appendicitis (22%).Conclusions: It is concluded from the present study that laparoscopic surgery in paediatric patients is safe, complication free, had less analgesic requirement, shorter duration of surgery, short postoperative hospital and total hospital stay and better cosmetic results.
Absorbable versus conventional methods for wound closures in surgeries for benign breast diseases: a randomized case control study
Authors: Gopinathan Jeji , Ulahannan Sansho Elavumkal
Published: January 2020

Background: Surgeons and patients prefer absorbable sutures for surgical wound closure in breast surgeries which are usually continuous subcuticular sutures so that patients can skip a hospital visit for suture removal. But in case of breast biopsies authors usually put circumareolar incisions. Here authors find it difficult to put continuous subcuticular sutures. In this contest authors thought of interrupted subcuticular sutures where authors can tackle the above-mentioned limitations; while actually reducing the financial burden of the patients.Methods: In this randomized case controlled study authors included elective general surgical procedures for benign breast diseases that was being carried out in the department of General Surgery Govt. Medical College, Kottayam for a period of 6 months starting from January 2017. Total number of cases taken are 20; 10 each in each group.Results: The mean rank for interrupted method was 14.20 and conventional method was 6.80. Mann-Whitney U statistic was 13.000 and p value was 0.03. Since p value was less than 0.05, authors had clear evidence to reject the null hypothesis. Therefore, authors concluded that both the methods were dissimilar and based on mean rank interrupted method seemed to be better method.Conclusions: Authors recommended interrupted absorbable subcuticular suturing technique in general surgical procedures for benign breast diseases, especially where authors used circumareolar incisions, which saved time of the surgeon and the patient. This can lead to considerable cost savings for the government without compromising clinical effectiveness or safety.
Gastric xanthelasma: case report
Authors: Almeida Ana C. , Fraga Emília C. , Camacho Cristina P. , Amaral Maria J. , Milheiro António , Bernardes António , Tralhão José G.
Published: January 2020

Xanthelasma, also known as Xanthoma or lipid island, is an uncommon gastrointestinal tract (GIT) tumor-like lesion and the stomach is its most frequent location in upper GI lesions, specifically in the gastric antrum, as a single lesion. The pathogenesis appears to be related to healing processes in response to tissue damage provoked by inflammation induced by Helicobacter pylori infection. Many studies have reported that successful H. pylori eradication helps prevent gastric cancer (GC) development. We present a case of a 77 years old patient that showed endoscopic diagnosis of erythematous gastropathy, a gastric antrum xanthelasma and H. Pylori infection. After confirmed H. pylori eradication, the lesion had complete regression. The successful eradication of H. pylori probably led to a total regression of the lesion. Gastric xanthelasma (GX) has been shown to be an independent predictive marker for early GC detection after H. pylori eradication. GX could be a useful marker for predicting the development of gastric cancer.
Perforated duodenal ulcer after gastric bypass: a challenging diagnosis
Authors: Amaral Maria J. , Serôdio Marco , Fraga Emília C. , Camacho Cristina P. , Almeida Ana C. , Manso António , Tralhão José G.
Published: January 2020

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is one of the most commonly performed surgeries for morbid obesity. Perforated duodenal ulcers are very rare in these patients (with a 0.25% incidence reported) and the diagnosis can be challenging. We report a case of a 43-year-old woman who presented with severe acute abdominal pain to the emergency department. She had undergone a laparoscopic RYGB 5 years previously. Exploratory laparoscopy revealed a duodenal perforation, which was repaired by primary closure. As Helicobacter pylori has been implicated in the formation of ulcers in this population, eradication therapy should be started.
A pericardial hydatid cyst treated with video assisted thoracoscopy
Authors: Chaban Hussain D. , J. Alhadid Salem I. , Bakjaji Monzer M. , AlHossain Mohammad H.
Published: January 2020

Hydatid cyst disease is a significant health problem for undeveloped and developing countries. Humans are infected by way of contaminated dogs or contaminated uncooked vegetables. Cardiac hydatid cyst disease is uncommon, occurring in approximately 0.5% to 2% of patients with hydatid disease. Most cardiac hydatid cysts are located in the left ventricle and interventricular septum. The rate of pericardial hydatid cysts is (2-10) % of cardiac echinococcosis. Although cardiac involvement is rare, early diagnosis and treatment of this situation is important. Surgical options include sternotomy, thoractomy and video assisted thoracoscopy (VATS). In the present report, a 17-year-old girl with pericardial and hepatic hydatid cyst is described and it has been treated with left VATS for pericardial cyst. In the present patient, the hydatid cyst was located inside the pericardial cavity without myocardial involvement.
Acute Epstein-Barr virus hepatitis presenting clinically as ascending cholangitis in an immunocompetent patient
Authors: Colbran Rachel , Ng Jessica
Published: January 2020

Symptomatic acute Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) hepatitis, without associated infectious mononucleosis syndrome, is exceptionally rare. A 30-year-old female presented to hospital with jaundice, fevers, and right upper quadrant abdominal pain. Her blood tests demonstrated marked hyperbilirubinemia and mild global liver function test abnormalities consistent with obstructive jaundice.  Preliminary imaging with ultrasound showed gallbladder wall thickening and cholelithiasis, suggestive of potential cholecystitis. Authors were concerned for potential ascending cholangitis in the setting of her hyperbilirubinemia. The diagnosis was refuted after magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography demonstrated no choledocholithiasis. A hepatic panel was performed which revealed positive EBV IgM serology. This case highlights the importance of considering EBV hepatitis as a potential differential diagnosis in patients with right upper quadrant pain, fevers and jaundice in the absence of an obstructing cause.
Very rare giant adrenal myelolipoma: a tumor mimic
Authors: Padhy Aditya Prasad , Kanungo Abinash , Das Deepak Kumar , . Sunny
Published: January 2020

Adrenal myelolipoma is a very rare benign neoplasm usually unilateral, and nonsecreting, occurring in the adrenal gland which consist of fatty tissues and hematopoietic elements. Some cases of this type may cause symptoms like chronic abdominal pain however usually these tumors are small and asymptomatic. Surgery is the modality of treatment where there are severe symptoms with life threatening progression with size of tumor reaching more than 6 cm. Here we report an unusual case of a 59-year-old male with history of chronic abdominal pain from a growing right-sided large adrenal mass. With all possible hematological, histo-pathological as well as imaging investigations warranted a high suspicion for tumor mass, hence decided for surgically excision, which was both diagnostic as well as curative. The histopathological study of the excised mass confirmed the initial diagnosis of adrenal myelolipoma. Surgery is the diagnostic and curative modality of treatment for adrenal myelolipoma after all possible investigations to reach for a clinical diagnosis as well for proper planning for surgery. By this we can prevent complications like spontaneous rupture and hemorrhage of the mass, and subsequent cardiovascular shock. Management varies from individual to individual. Open radical adrenalectomy is the standard treatment for giant myelolipomas (size >10 cm), while the minimally invasive approach has been used in only few cases of small sized tumors. Although it is a benign tumor, surgery plays main role for symptomatic cases and high suspicion of malignancy.
Phyllodes tumor presented as fungating mass on right breast and fibroadenoma on contralateral breast: a case report
Authors: Mahapatra Sribatsa Kumar , Panigrahi Pramit Ballav , Mahapatra Abinash , Mahapatra Srimanta
Published: January 2020

This is an article reporting a large phyllodes tumor with fibroadenoma. A 25 years female presented with a fungating mass of size 20×15 cms in right breast since last 1 year and amass of size 3×3 cms in left breast since 6 month. Biopsy from right side and left side breast mass proven to be Cystosarcomaphyllodes and fibroadenoma respectively. Wide local excision with 1cm normal tumor margin on right side and   excision of mass on left side done. Proliferative markers like Ki-67 and P53 were in range of 1-2% and 3-4% respectively. Histopathological diagnosis of tumor was borderline phyllodes tumor (right side) and fibroadenoma (left side). Patient had an uneventful post-operative course and is presently on three monthly follow up since 1 year.
Geoprocessing and climate simulation applied to transposition between watershed in São Paulo state, Brazil
Authors: Da Silva Rodrigo Cesar , Fisch Gilberto Fernando , Dos Santos Thiago Adriano
Published: January 2020

The water crisis that hit the Southeast region of Brazil in the years 2014 and 2015 was generated by an atmospheric blocking associated with a high-pressure zone that persisted for more than 45 days, causing a drastic decrease in precipitation rates throughout the region. This fact had a major impact on the municipality of São Paulo, causing a crisis of lack of water availability. To face the problem of water shortages for the São Paulo Metropolitan Region, the water transposition from Paraíba do Sul River watershed to the Cantareira System was proposed to mitigate the referred crisis and other future ones. Therefore, to investigate the feasibility of the proposed solution becomes very important, given the changes in the rainfall profile generated by global climate changes that affect the climatic element precipitation. Geoprocessing techniques were associated with future rainfall data simulated by the HadCM3/Eta model using SRES (Special Report Scenarios Emission) A1B of IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) to investigate the long-term feasibility of this proposal. The results point to the possibility of the project’s unsustainability until the year 2040, since only 35% of the year’s transposition may occur, reducing to 30% if only considering the 2030s.
Malestar en el trabajo: una mirada a contadores públicos en farmacéuticas
Authors: Pedraza Benítez Jeimy Paola , Higuita-López Daimer
Published: January 2020

Este artículo aborda el malestar laboral en contadores públicos de Bogotá, en multinacionales del sector farmacéutico. Concretamente, el estudio se propuso, por un lado, identificar los factores que le crean malestar laboral a los contadores de estas compañías y, por el otro, analizar los efectos de dichos aspectos sobre la esfera anímica de los sujetos. Con ayuda de una encuesta, de entrevistas en profundidad y un grupo foco, la investigación arrojó que el malestar laboral es disparado por factores internos y externos a las empresas; por ejemplo, las políticas basadas en estereotipos o la normatividad que regula el ejercicio contable. Algunos de estos factores se asocian con las denominadas enfermedades de la excelencia, características de un entorno laboral altamente competitivo.
Necessity of Monitoring and Cultural Training in Infertility Treatment Centers
Authors: Tavakoli Bazzaz Javad , Rasti Azam , Behnamfar Reza
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Lifestyle is one of the important factors of public health and reproductive health that is considered as the result of interaction between individual characteristics, environmental conditions and social class. The social class is a characteristic of socio-economic characteristics and conditions. Class is created by combining different types of capital, and capital refers to one's valuable and available resources.
Neuroprotective Effect of Gallic Acid on Memory Deficit and Content of BDNF in Brain Entorhinal Cortex of Rat’s Offspring in Uteroplacental Insufficiency Model
Authors: Esfandiari Zahra , Edalatmanesh Mohammad Amin
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Uteroplacental insufficiency (UPI) causes neurodevelopmental deficits affecting the intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR) offspring. This study aimed to analyze the effects of Gallic acid (GA) on memory deficit and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) content in entorhinal cortex of UPI rat models.
Methods: In this experimental study, 40 pregnant Wistar rats were randomly divided into 5 groups, including: control, UPI, UPI+GA100, UPI+GA200and UPI+GA400. For IUGR induction, anterior uterine artery occlusion surgery was carried out on gestation day (GD) 18. From GD15, GA was administrated orally, in 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg BW doses until the birth of their neonates. Spatial and working memories are analyzed by Morris water maze and Y maze at postnatal day (PND) 30, respectively. Then, BDNF cerebral cortex level was estimated using ELISA technique.The data were analyzed through ANOVA and Tukey Post hoc in SPSS software version 16.
Results: A significant decrease was observed in spatial and working memories and BDNF content in entorhinal cortex of UPI group in comparison with the control group (p˂0.05). On the other hand, GA-treated groups showed a significant increase in BDNF content and amelioration of spatial and working memories (p˂0.05).
Conclusion: Fetal growth restrictionafter UPI by decreasingBDNFlevel in entorhinal cortex caused memory deficits in rat’s model. Moreover, neuroprotective effects of GA lead to increased BDNF content and ameliorate cognitive deficits in UPI model.
Study of Radiation Dose Enhancement to Capillary Endothelial Cells Due to the Presence of Heavy Metal Nanoparticles in Two Cell and Tumor Scales by Monte Carlo Method
Authors: Sohayli-Jabbareh-Naseroo Aghdas , Rezaee Ladan
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Recently, the use of various sensitizers has been used to increase photon-induced doses in brachytherapy. One of these cases is the addition of heavy metal nanoparticles such as gold in the target area, which increases the production of ionizing electrons by increasing the possibility of photoelectric effects, and increases the efficacy of the treatment. In this study, the target of the irradiation was the endothelial cell in the wall of blood capillaries located inside the tumor, which, if destroyed, would result in abnormal blood cell counts and tumor cell death.
Methods: The effect of using nanoparticles of gold, silver, bismuth and copper has been evaluated by calculating the dose increase ratio using Geant4 tool that was based on Monte Carlo method. These calculations were performed on two microscopic (cellular) and macroscopic (tumor dimensions) scale and the effects of different concentrations of these nanoparticles were compared. Also, the dose increase ratio has been evaluated to determine the most appropriate photon energy range.
Results: As the concentration of nanoparticles increases, the dose enhancement factor increased in photon energy. In addition, for energies less than 70 keV, with increasing energy, dose enhancement factor increased and for energies above 80 keV, this quantity decreased with increasing energy.
Conclusion: In terms of dose, gold is the best option, and in terms of the dose enhancement factor, silver and bismuth are better alternative among the four elements studied. Also, the most suitable photon energy range is 70 keV to 80 keV.
MULTIMEDIA DEVELOPMENT TO INTRODUCE ENGLISH VOCABULARY IN KINDERGARTEN
Authors: Prasetyo Danang
Published: January 2020

Introducing english vocabularies in early childhood education institution generally has not used the media learning as well, incorrect pronountiation and spelling of the teacher also monotonous method. This research aimed to know multimedia feasiblity of english vocabulary introduction for group B at TK Wahidiyah Kota Kediri, knowing multimedia effectiveness of english vocabulary introduction for group B at TK Wahidiyah Kota Kediri. Field development used one group pretest posttest design. Instruments used in data collection are questionnaire, guidelines and interview guidelines which analized using descriptive technic, statistic descriptive and descriptive inferential. To know the effect of multimedia, analyzed by using the calculation with the help of software (software) that is SPSS 20. Based on result of t-test, known significance obtained by 0,00 which means smaller than the significance used in this research that is 0 , 05, then H0 is rejected and Ha accepted. Based on the results of research can be concluded that the development of multimedia for the introduction of English vocabulary effect on the introduction of English vocabulary in children group B TK Wahidiyah Kota Kediri preliminary
Krytyka metodologiczna jako praktyka tworzenia wiedzy (dziedziny problemowe – próba rekonstrukcji)
Authors: Piekarski Jacek
Published: January 2020

The aim of the study is to reconstruct various ways of understanding methodological critique as a practice of knowledge creation and to indicate, revealed in connection with the reconstruction, the possibility of identifying cognitive obstacles that arise in this practice. Methodological critique is understood as a kind of practice – the field of thinking and acting – related to the experience and rationalization of the gap between the obviousness (faith) and the uncertainty of beliefs about reality. Various ways of formulating critique, related to the treatment of critique as the value underlying the ideal of rationality of science as well as a communication strategy, are discussed. Different ways of understanding critique legitimated under the distinguished concepts of methodology (as the theory of the application of laws of logic in various areas of research and a specialized discipline concerning the place of science in the system of human knowledge), are also discussed. On this basis, the possibilities of practicing a "critical methodology", designed as a study of methods for criticizing scientific practice in the changing cultural framework, are considered. In connection with the identified processes of their change (institutionalization of science, corporatization and networking of research), patterns of practicing critique justified by methodological premises (dogmatism, conventionalism and tactical discretion) were reconstructed and confronted with the cultural patterns of critique formed on their basis (inhibition, tolerantism and presentism).
Theoria – praxis – poiesis jako wyzwanie i perspektywy krytyki metodologicznej w pedagogice
Authors: Nowak Marian
Published: January 2020

Considering the theme of the 7th Seminar on Pedagogical Methodology, the chapter focuses on issues related to three categories (theoria, praxis, and poiesis) and the values appropriately assigned to them (truth, goodness, and beauty). By characterizing the role of these categories as the criteria of critical analysis applied to pedagogical knowledge outcomes, this chapter points to their continuing relevance and the special meaning of the value of truth. Truth is an important criterion for critical analysis, as well as the goal of human cognition, an initial and fundamental value, checking the value of all other human personal activities. It constitutes a human individuality composed of three types of truths 1) the truth, which exists (TRUTH); 2) the truth, which becomes (GOOD); and 3) the truth, which is to be (BEAUTY). These are the three spheres of human existence in which the types occur and, at the same time, they can be a criterion of methodological critique used in creating and analysing pedagogical knowledge, indicating human potentialities, which are understood as the things possible to lift humans to the highest possible level (the optimum potentiae) as the top capabilities of a human being. In the Christian context, one can think of some state of a perfect virtue that ‘makes both the having person and his work good’ (Krąpiec, 1990, p. 41).
Metodologia badań pedagogicznych między normatywnością a opisowością
Authors: Kubinowski Dariusz
Published: January 2020

The author tries to identify, present and explain permanent controversies concerning three key methodological categories used in the methodology of pedagogical research in Poland: “pedagogical dimension” of scientific research; scope of pedagogical research; and methodology in pedagogical research. The author describes the nature of the controversy and emphasizes his own approach to it. The main aim of the chapter is to propose the author’s own concept of understanding the methodology of pedagogical research as philosophical-empirical science that is built and being constantly rebuilt in diachronic and dialectic relationships between normative and descriptive methodologies, as an emergent reaction to radical and dynamic changes of a social reality. The author emphasizes the important role of methodological research (“research on research”) in constructing new scientific knowledge in the field of methodology of pedagogical research.
Badania jakościowe wobec postulatu teoretyczności wiedzy
Authors: Malewski Mieczysław
Published: January 2020

An explosion of qualitative research in social sciences is accompanied by doubts as to its theorizing potential. Some voices claim that this type of research is “from the nature” idiographic. The main thesis of this study is that change in the way of seeing scientific theory began in the 1960s, with the move from the sociocentric perspective to the anthropocentric perspective. This had important methodological consequences. The prevailing perspective of methodological holism began to be replaced by methodological individualism. As a result, social researchers abandoned the product theory that had been in force to that point. The concept of process theory took its place.
Od uniwersalności do partykularności metody badawczej
Authors: Urbaniak-Zając Danuta
Published: January 2020

The aim of the chapter is to discuss the conditions for changing the status of the research method and consequences of the change. In the traditional approach, the research method is a refinement of the scientific method, which is an emanation of the ideal of modern science. So, the rules that govern the research method follow the science ideal. As long as one pattern of science existed, the method of natural sciences was considered commonly obligatory and did not require separate justifications. In the chapter, the author signals the genesis of the special position of the method in modern science and draws attention to the consequences of W. Dilthey’s exclusion of humanistic sciences (including contemporary social sciences) from empirical knowledge, then focuses on conditions that impaired the autonomy of the research method. She discusses the consequences of this change for the practice of qualitative empirical research. In conclusion, the author refers to the links between the research method, the research subject and the assumptions referring to it; and signals the change of function and position of the method (it does not reflect reality in a realistic way, but shows how it can be understood; and thus it becomes a part of the problem being studied by means of the method). The task of methodological critique is reflection on research practice, reconstruction of contexts and assumptions adopted as parts of various research projects, which may serve to weaken the “methodological separatisms”.
Warunki krytyki metodologicznej prac badawczych
Authors: Pasikowski Sławomir
Published: January 2020

The chapter presents a model of research critique using the idea of deviations from the pattern of methodological correctness. The author introduces the concept of two categories of such deviations: from the local standard and from the generalized criterion. Both refer to the concept of visibility, which co-determines the scope of the response on the side of the sender as well as of the receiver of the empirical report. As a consequence, the author proposed a model of methodological critique that refers to the awareness of failures, defining the conditions of visibility of deviations, and methodological rigor in the discipline, which determines the scope of environmental legitimacy of these deviations. The model makes it possible to predict the behaviour of the creator, the recipient and the disciplinary community in which the report is presented, as well as to characterize the persuasiveness of scientific communication by the empirical reports.
Polityczne aspekty uprawiania krytyki metodologicznej
Authors: Banaszak Sławomir
Published: January 2020

The author focuses on the political nature of scientific critique. The author’s theses are inspired by the once-well-known text of Michał Kalecki, one of the most influential Polish economists in the history of the discipline, in which he argued that ideological premises often overcame objective, scientific thinking. Similarly, the classic of modern social sciences, Vilfredo Pareto, calls these false justifications, which replace theses based on real premises, derivations. Sławomir Banaszak attempts to show examples of ideology in social sciences, the necessity of undertaking discussions with adversaries, and the apparent and non-obvious nature of the review of scientific achievements. He asks questions, including those about methodological specialization in the social sciences and the methodology of scientific work. In his opinion, critique, including methodological critique, is in retreat and disappearing. For this reason, he proposes indicators of the “criticality” of the discipline that may show off dominant attitudes in a particular field of science.
Krytyka metodologiczna w ocenie dorobku habilitacyjnego
Authors: Hejnicka-Bezwińska Teresa
Published: January 2020

“Methodological critique” is a form of scientific critique along with philosophical, empirical, theoretical or logical critique. It does not require any special justification to recognize this form of critique as the most important, the most meaningful and most decisive in assessing the postdoctoral achievements. In the summary, I refer only to one legal argument that obtaining a postdoctoral degree is a kind of “pass”, entitling one to adjudicate on the scientific achievements of others and to appear in various roles related to awarding (or refusing to award) the academic degree of a particular person. In the chapter, I present some of the most important questions to which I was seeking answers, assessing the work indicated as the main scientific achievement. This unitary example seems to be a good illustration of the problems, controversies and dilemmas appearing when one is preparing an opinion for a meeting of the Postdoctoral Degree Awarding Committee. Uncovering your own reflection on a specific work can be a contribution to the discussion of the reviewer’s role in the postdoctoral degree procedure and the place and role of methodological critique in this procedure, especially when the author of the indicated achievement has not shown due diligence to reliably present and authenticate his/her research concept.
Zjawisko preferencji techniki sondażu w kontekście badań reprezentatywnych w schemacie mieszania technik
Authors: Rybak Adam
Published: January 2020

The aim of this chapter is to show the state of knowledge in the field of mixed-mode survey design methodology, the known theoretical and practical issues in its use, and to highlight knowledge gaps on this subject. Inclusion of survey mode preference hypothesis in this context is particularly interesting because of possible positive effects of its proper implementation on increasing response rates and measurement quality and lowering survey costs. However, this phenomenon is still not deeply understood and lacks a well-developed theoretical context. This chapter connects it with a wider range of theories of survey participation and gathers the elements of possible future theory. In conclusion, it presents a possible strategy for the utilization of knowledge about participants’ preferences concerning a mode in survey research.
Financial bootstrapping among Costa Rican small businesses: an exploratory study
Authors: Alvarado Marco , Mora Esquivel Ronald
Published: January 2020

This study identifies and analyzes the financial bootstrapping techniques commonly used by small businesses in Costa Rica. The empirical application uses a unique sample of 161 Costa Rican SMEs for 2017. The results of the parallel factor analysis reveal that the analyzed SMEs adopt different types of bootstrapping techniques primarily related to the owners, customers, and alliances that facilitate the joint utilization of facilities and other assets. Entrepreneurs bootstrap their businesses to reduce the reliance on external financing. In this sense, the results of this study show that, rather than simply using what entrepreneurs are familiar with (e.g., credit from family or friends), Costa Rican small business managers are exploring and actively using a wide array of alternative methods in order to access financial resources.
A Study of Skin-to-Skin Care During Cesarean Birth: A Mother's Experience
Authors: Bertrand Kristen Marie , Adams Ellise D.
Published: January 2020

This study explores the experience of women who have had skin-to-skin care during cesarean birth by using a qualitative, phenomenology-based approach. Interview questions were developed and aimed to understand the common meaning of this experience by learning about women's prior concerns and expectations of skin-to-skin care during cesarean birth, and how these experiences were realized during the intervention. A purposive sample (N = 13) was recruited through social media. Participants had skin-to-skin care, post-cesarean birth, in the last 10 years and were interviewed via Facebook Messenger video chat. The themes that emerged revealed the importance these women placed on their skin-to-skin care experience. The results of this study reinforce the importance of advocating for and implementing skin-to-skin care during cesarean birth whenever possible.
Celebrate Birth!—My Story of Pleasure and Grief
Authors: Wyborn Claire
Published: January 2020

This is the story of the home birth of Claire's twins. It is a story of incredible pleasure and devastating loss. It is also a story of love, compassion, validation, and of deep respect in honoring the experience of birth and loss. Claire hopes that every mother who has experienced the loss of a baby will be encouraged to speak out and tell her story. She shares her belief that women need to feel that there is someone out there who can hold them gently and listen.
“Motivate to Lactate”: Utilizing Motivational Interviewing to Improve Breastfeeding Rates
Authors: DeFoor Melissa , Darby Wendy
Published: January 2020

Promotion of exclusive breastfeeding is a nationwide initiative that has been incorporated into health-care facilities. Staff educators for women's and children's services should consider using motivational interviewing techniques to engage patients in a conversation about breastfeeding. Motivational interviewing has been linked with many positive outcomes in patient-centered care. This research article reveals the staffs' positive perception of adopting these techniques into daily practice and their thoughts on the potential patient outcomes.
Improving Health Literacy at the Organizational Level
Authors: Isibel Denise
Published: January 2020

Background

The lack of health literacy is associated with higher mortality, more frequent hospitalizations, and increased use of healthcare services. Organizations must create an environment that prepares a workforce with a heightened sensitivity for health literacy.

Objective

The local Program of All Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) program desired to have an organized plan to address health literacy.

Methods

Twelve interdisciplinary team members of a Program for all Inclusive Care of the Elderly completed the Assessment Questionnaire from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Health Literacy Universal Precautions Toolkit. Once the questionnaire was complete organizational priorities were identified and the AHRQ Toolkit was utilized to develop next steps.

Results

The organization identified three areas as priorities: development of a health literacy team, improving spoken communication with patients and care givers, and improving written information given via letters and home instructions.

Conclusions

Organizations, nursing, and quality care leaders may find these results useful to assess organizational literacy and develop improvement plans.

Implications for Nursing

Implementation of the AHRQ Health literacy Universal Precautions toolkit may increase understanding and training health literacy, improve passage of health care information and increase patient safety.
Multimodal Education Program to Improve Nurses' Knowledge and Confidence on Delirium Recognition in a Surgical-Trauma Intermediate-Care Setting
Authors: Choi Min , DeGennaro Regina , Blevins Cheri
Published: January 2020

Background

High incidence of delirium in hospitalized patients has been reported in the United States and is significantly associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The lack of knowledge and confidence in performing delirium assessment (KCDA) has led to significant underrecognition of delirium by nurses regardless of evidence-based education intervention.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a multimodal educational program (MEP) to enhance nurses' KCDA.

Methods

A MEP including an online didactic with a video-simulation and 1:1 bedside coaching with delirium screening (DS) was conducted in the surgical intermediate-care unit of an academic medical center. A quasi-experimental pre- and post-test design was used.

Results

Of 23 nurses, the majority were <41 years old (73.9%) and had at least a bachelor of science in nursing degree (78.3%) with <6 years of experience (60.9%). The overall KCDA scores and the performance of DS improved significantly after the MEP (p < .001). A positive correlation was noted between the changes of the KCDA scores (p = .009).

Conclusions

The MEP demonstrated improvement in nurses' KCDA. The MEP should focus on an individualized learning approach with a targeted patient population, using current delirium screening tools.

Implications for Nursing

Educational programs are recommended in either an orientation or continuing education program on nursing units. This is also recommended for use in other academic centers that encompass similar clinical settings and could possibly be considered for use in other disease processes.
Framework Development for an Immediate Postpartum Long-Acting Reversible Contraception Program
Authors: Poulsen Jessica , Liese Kylea
Published: January 2020

Background

With the high rates of unintended pregnancy and associated maternal morbidity and mortality in the United States, particularly among poor and minority women, it is imperative that all individuals have information about and access to long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods in the immediate postpartum period.

Objective

The creation of a framework to provide guidance, address barriers, and dispel myths associated with the implementation of an immediate postpartum LARC program.

Methods

A multistep approach to develop a framework to guide planning and implementation of an immediate postpartum LARC program. A literature review, telephone and e-mail interviews with clinical experts involved with successful implementation of immediate postpartum LARC programs, development of a list of interdisciplinary specialists, and steps required to initiate a change in current practice.

Results

The provision of a framework to guide the planning and implementation of an immediate postpartum LARC program to streamline the process while addressing perceived barriers and myths.

Conclusions

Addressing the lack of knowledge about LARCs, financial concerns, and absence of a standardized framework related to planning and implementation of this complex process will hopefully begin the process of making effective and reliable contraception available.

Implications for Nursing

The use of a standardized framework to guide the implementation of an immediate postpartum LARC program provides the potential for easier access to LARC methods in this critical time period.
PrEParing for Preexposure Prophylaxis
Authors: Zappas Michelle Peters , Foreman Ruth Madden
Published: January 2020

Background

In 2012 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Truvada (emtricitabine [FTC] 200 mg/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate [TDF] 300 mg) for preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) against HIV. There was a substantial decline in new HIV diagnoses which has since stabilized.

Objective

The plateau is thought to be because preventative efforts are not reaching high-risk groups. About 1.2 million adults in the United States could benefit from PrEP but only 80,000 individuals are taking it. This article aims to increase provider awareness of PrEP so primary care providers feel confident discussing risk reduction options, initiating, and monitoring PrEP.

Methods

A case based approached is used to achieve the objective.

Results

Target populations, baseline labs, follow up labs and monitoring parameters, and side effects of medication will be reviewed. Patient counseling with regards to dosing, administration, side effects and adverse events will be discussed.

Conclusions

HIV prevention is an integral public health goal. PrEP is a way to achiveeve continued reduction in HIV incidence. PCPs should be offering PrEP to at risk individuals.

Implications for Nursing

Many nurse practitioners work as primary care providers, this article hopes to increase the confidence of PCPs in prescribing PrEP to those who would benefit from it.