bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring of Anthrax Prevalence in Georgia 2009-2017
Authors: Kerdzevadze Lela
Published: May 2019

ObjectiveOne of the main objectives of these studies was to improve Anthrax laboratory diagnostics in order to properly monitor the prevalence and distribution of the disease in Georgia. For this geographic information system (GIS) was implemented and used as the additional tool to the laboratory tests for better visualization, summary results and risk assessment.IntroductionAnthrax is an acute infectious disease of historical importance caused by Bacillus anthracis (B. anthracis), a spore-forming, soil-borne bacterium with a remarkable ability to persist in the environment. Anthrax is endemic in many countries, including Georgia.Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture (LMA) has been actively working on the disease science 1907 and constantly improving diagnostics. In 2009-2017 the laboratory participated in cooperative biological studies. One of the main objectives of these studies was to improve Anthrax laboratory diagnostics in order to properly monitor the prevalence and distribution of the disease in Georgia.MethodsIn 2009 -2011, within GG18, LMA tested 130(animal and environmental) anthrax suspected samples collected from different regions of Georgia. Later, in 2014 – 2017, studies (TAP7; GG27) were focused on soil sample collection and 2825 specimens were collected from the entire country.Samples were tested according to Treat Agent Detection and Response (TADR) algorithm following standard operation procedures (SOPs). Cultures were isolated through Bacteriology tests - Gram strain, Lysis by gamma phage, Motility test, DFA and confirmed by Molecular Biology ( PCR).In 2009, within the studies , geographic information system (GIS) was implemented and used as the additional tool to the laboratory tests for better visualization, summary results and risk assessment.ResultsTotally, 2955 collected samples were tested. 86 cultures were isolated and confirmed. The results - anthrax cases were mapped by regions, rayons and villages, also positive cases were mapped by sample type and course, Majority of positive cases were in Kvemo Kartli (53%), 19% were from Kakheti, 19% - from Imereti and less distributed in other regions.Applying modern GIS the final map of anthrax foci in Georgia was created including both - old (historical data) and new (recent data) foci.ConclusionsThe studies aimed to improve Anthrax laboratory diagnostic in Georgia. Better Laboratory diagnostic with modern GIS analysis supports the monitoring of the disease prevalence in Georgia and significantly improves public health system in the country.
Lessons Learned from a DoD and Virginia Data Sharing Pilot using NSSP ESSENCE
Authors: Austin Erin E. , Lewis Paul E. , Norfleet Arden , Russell Jamaal
Published: May 2019

ObjectiveThis panel will focus on the experiences from the Department of Defense (DoD) and Virginia Department of Health (VDH) data sharing project using the National Syndromic Surveillance Program (NSSP) ESSENCE and will discuss lessons learned, challenges, and recommendations within the following areas: 1) data sharing authority, 2) coordination and implementation of data sharing with a focus on personnel, training, and managing access and 3) communication between local, state, and federal agencies.IntroductionThe DoD and VDH both maintain local ESSENCE installations to monitor the health status of their military and civilian populations, respectively, and submit syndromic surveillance data to the NSSP ESSENCE to foster data sharing and collaborative initiatives among public health entities. Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs), housed on DoD installations, provide healthcare to all service members and their beneficiaries stationed in the area. Service members and their beneficiaries represent a substantial portion of the local community and interact with the civilian population throughout daily activities. Sharing syndromic surveillance data between DoD and public health jurisdictions can provide public health situational awareness among both civilian and military populations to support disease surveillance. DoD and VDH engaged in a pilot project to develop processes and procedures for data sharing, data access, and communication with the aim they can serve as best practices for other jurisdictions seeking to share syndromic surveillance data with DoD.DescriptionThe pilot project began in June 2018 with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) NSSP team providing technical support. NSSP ESSENCE users from the VDH state and local health departments across nine Virginia city/counties participated in the project. VDH shared syndromic surveillance data from 34 healthcare facilities (17 urgent cares, 3 emergency care centers, and 14 hospitals) with DoD, which shared syndromic surveillance data from 18 MTFs (16 clinics and 2 hospitals) in Virginia. To standardize the analysis of syndromic surveillance data and use of NSSP ESSENCE across project participants, myESSENCE tabs were created and shared by between VDH and DoD. The goal was to facilitate and enhance communication between local public health departments and their DoD counterparts through the sharing of syndromic surveillance data.How the Moderator Intends to Engage the Audience in Discussions on the TopicThe moderator will solicit feedback from the audience regarding their data sharing experiences with other entities or agencies, data sharing practices, and ideas for use cases when sharing syndromic surveillance data with DoD.
Detection of a Salmonellosis Outbreak using Syndromic Surveillance in Georgia
Authors: Borroto Rene , Pavlick Jessica , Soetebier Karl , Williamson Bill , Pitcher Patrick , Drenzek Cherie
Published: May 2019

ObjectiveDescribe how the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) used data from its State Electronic Notifiable Disease Surveillance System (SendSS) Syndromic Surveillance (SS) module for early detection of an outbreak of salmonellosis in Camden County, Georgia.IntroductionEvidence about the value of syndromic surveillance data for outbreak detection is limited (1). In July 2018, a salmonellosis outbreak occurred following a family reunion of 300 persons held in Camden County, Georgia, where one meal was served on 7/27/2018 and on 7/28/2018.MethodsSendSS-SS and SAS were used for cluster detection of Emergency Department (ED) patients with similar Chief Complaint (CC), Triage Notes (TN), or Discharge Diagnoses (DDx) by facility, time of ED visit, and zip code / county of residence. A SAS-based free-text query related to food poisoning in the CC and DDx fields was also performed on a daily basis. County- and hospital-specific charting of the Diarrhea syndrome was also conducted in SendSS-SS, whereas county- and zip code-specific charting of the same syndrome were done in both SendSS-SS and SAS (2).ResultsOn Sunday July 29th, 2018, three children and three adults were seen within 18 hours at the ED of Hospital A in Camden County, Georgia. All patients complained of diarrhea, vomiting, and food poisoning, after a large family reunion that had been held the day before. This early cluster was detected by the SAS-based free-text query of ‘food poisoning’ and the SAS-based cluster detection tool for patients with Diarrhea syndrome. The District Epidemiologists (DE) in the Coastal Health District were notified on Monday, July 30th, 2018. One-year high daily spikes of the Diarrhea syndrome occurred from July 29th to July 31st, 2018 in a local hospital ED (Fig 1), Camden County, and zip code 31548. Two HIPAA-compliant line lists with a total of 27 patients seen at EDs were emailed to the DEs to support active case finding. No further spikes of the Diarrhea syndrome were detected in Camden County during the 2-week period after the 3-day spike.ConclusionsSyndromic surveillance was a useful surveillance tool for early detection of a salmonellosis outbreak, helping with the active search for outbreak cases, tracking the peak of the outbreak, and assuring that no further spikes were occurring.References1.R Hopkins, C Tong, H Burkom, et al. A Practitioner-Driven Research Agenda for Syndromic Surveillance. Public Health Reports 2017; 132(Supplement1): 116S-126S.2. G Zhang, A Llau, J Suarez, E O'Connell, E Rico, R Borroto, F Leguen. Using ESSENCE to Track a Gastrointestinal Outbreak in a Homeless Shelter in Miami-Dade County, 2008. Advances in Disease Surveillance. 2008; 5:139.
Epidemiology of SFTSV in Ticks collected from National Park in the ROK, 2015-2018
Authors: Chae Joon-seok , Kang Jun Gu , Han Sun-Woo , Jheong Weon-Hwa , Jeong Hye-Sung , Chae Joon-seok
Published: May 2019

ObjectiveTo survey the distribution of Ixodid tick and infection of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) in natural environments from Deogyusan national parks in Korea.IntroductionSevere fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging viral disease in East-Asian countries, including China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea (ROK). The causative agent of SFTS is the SFTS virus (SFTSV) transmitted by hematophagous ticks.MethodsTo investigate the prevalence of SFTSV in the ROK, a total of 4,223 ticks were collected by flagging from Deogyusan National Park from 2015 to 2018. One-step reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and nested PCR were used to detect SFTSV-specific gene fragment from each ticks. The sequence data were analyzed using Chromas and aligned using CLUSTAL X. The phylogenetic analysis was constructed using the neighbor-joining method in MEGA7.ResultsOf the collected adult and nymph ticks, Haemaphysalis longicornis (3611, 85.5%) were the most abundant, followed by H. flava (502, 11.88%), Ixodes nipponensis (109, 2.5%), and Ixodes ovatus (1, 0.02%). The infection rate of SFTSV in total ticks was 5.8% (245/4,223), and the infection rate by year was 3.69% in 2015, 7.97% in 2016, 5.08% in 2017 and 4.68% in 2018. The infection rates of SFTSV were getting decreased each year in Deogyusan National Park. In addition, infection rate was higher in spring and summer of each season. Phylogenetic analysis was performed and SFTSV sequences obtained in this study were included in Korean/Japanese SFTSV clade.ConclusionsIn conclusion, we confirmed the sequence of two clades, and it is thought that the epidemiological investigation of SFTSV is necessary through further studies.
Survey of Tick-borne-disease from Ornithodoros spp. in Uninhabited Islands of Korea.
Authors: Han Sun-Woo , Jo Yong-Sun , Chae Jeong Byoung , Cho Yoon Kyoung , Shin Nam-Shik , Youn Hee-Jeong , Youn Hwa-Young , Nam Hyang-Mi , Kim Hyun-Joo , Kang Hae-Eun , Chae Joon-seok
Published: May 2019

ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to survey data of ticks distribution of Korean islands and to investigate pathogens in Argasid ticks.IntroductionTicks and tick-borne diseases have been thought global important issues, because it's affect to animal and human health and are the cause of significant economic losses. The genus Ornithodoros spp., which is included in Family Argasidae, is usually associated with wild animals including seabirds and it was difficult to investigate because seabirds’ nests are found in inaccessible uninhabited islands. However, Ornithodoros spp. has been known for the vector of many diseases including African swine fever.MethodsIn this study, nest with soil and litter of seabirds were collected, to investigate Ornithodoros species from 9 uninhabited islands, Nan-do, Chilsan-do, Chilbal-do, Sogukhol-do, Googul-do, Gaerin-do, Sasu-do, Hong-do (Hallyeohaesang) and Dok-do located western and southern part of the Korea from July, 2017 to September in 2018. The islands are known for breeding places of migratory and resident birds. Maximum ten nests with soil and litter of seabirds were collected from one uninhabited island for the conservation of the islands environment. Ticks were collected from nest with soil and litter of seabirds using Tullgren funnel and were assayed for tick identification by PCR using 16S rRNA gene and tick-borne pathogens including Rickettia spp., Borrelia spp., Bartonella spp., Ehrlichia chaffensis, Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Anaplasma bovis by nested PCR.ResultsTotal 65 Ornithodoros species ticks from 338 seabird's (black-tailed gull, Larus crassirotris; streaked shearwater, Calonectris leucomelas and Swinhoe's storm petrel, Oceanodroma monorhis) nesting soil with litter in 9 uninhabited islands. In the sequence identification of 16S rRNA gene fragment of Ornithodoros species, O. capensis and O. sawaii were 37 and 28, respectively. In the analyses of tick-borne pathogens, Borrelia spp. (n=5) was detected in O. sawaii from Gaerin-do and Googul-do. The total detection rate of Borrelia sp. from Ornithodoros spp. was 7.69% (5/65).ConclusionsIn this research, we discovered that O. sawaii are habitat in west and southern part of uninhabited islands to breeding place of black-tailed gulls and streaked shearwater and O. capensis are habitat in uninhabited islands related to breeding place of streaked shearwater. This is first report of the Borrelia spp. from Ornithodoros sawaii in Korea.
Use of ambulance dispatch calls for surveillance of severe acute respiratory infections?
Authors: Monge Susana , Duijster Janneke , Kommer Geert Jan , Van de Kassteele Jan , Donker Ge , Krafft Thomas , Engelen Paul , Valk Jens P. , De Waard Jan , De Nooij Jan , Van der Hoek Wim , Van Asten Liselotte
Published: May 2019

ObjectiveWe aim to assess whether influenza circulation, as measured through influenza-like-illness (ILI) in primary care, is reflected in ambulance dispatch (AD) calls.IntroductionSurveillance of severe influenza infections is lacking in the Netherlands. Ambulance dispatch (AD) data may provide information about severity of the influenza epidemic and its burden on emergency services.The current gold standard, primary care-based surveillance of influenza-like-illness (ILI), mainly captures mild to moderate influenza cases, and does not provide adequate information on severe disease.Monitoring the severity of the annual epidemic, particularly among groups most at risk of complications, is of importance for the planning of health services and the public health response.MethodsWe analysed all calls from four ambulance dispatch centers serving 4.3 million people in the Netherlands, between January 2014 and December 2016. The main complaint and urgency level is recorded during triage; those possibly caused by respiratory infections were grouped as respiratory syndrome calls (RSC). We modelled the proportion of all RSC calls against the weekly ILI incidence (we allowed up to 4-week lags and leads), from sentinel primary-care surveillance. We used binomial regression with identity link to obtain differences in proportions. We built separate models by age group, urgency level and time of day. We tested heterogeneity of effects by season.ResultsWe included 289,307 calls; 6.7% were RSC. Overall, proportion of RSC increased by 0.114 percentage points for each increase of 1/10,000 population in ILI incidence. In our study population, this translated into 550 ambulance calls attributable to influenza (as measured by ILI) per year. Association was stronger in the models including only out-of-office hours, children (<15 years) and highest urgency level calls. In the latter two, the effect varied by season. RSC was best associated with ILI from the previous 1-3 weeks in all models, except in children where RSC preceded ILI by 1 week.ConclusionsOur results demonstrate the potential usefulness of ambulance dispatch data to complement existing influenza surveillance by providing information on the volume and timing of severe cases attributable to influenza within the yearly epidemics.
Drug Overdose Trends among Black Indiana Residents: 2013-2017
Authors: Helmick Raven
Published: May 2019

ObjectiveTo understand trends in race-specific mortality rates between blacks and whites to discover any racial inequalities that might exist for drug overdose deaths. To delve into the types of drugs that are prominently involved in black drug overdose deaths from 2013-2017 in the state of Indiana.IntroductionBlack Hoosiers, the largest minority population in Indiana, make up almost 10% of the state’s population, and accounted for 8% of the total resident drug overdose deaths from 2013-2017 compared to whites at 91%. However, a closer look at race-specific mortality rates might reveal racial inequalities. Therefore, the purpose of this project was to analyze drug overdose morality rates among white and black Hoosiers to discover possible racial inequalities and to discover trends in drug involvement in overdose deaths among blacks.MethodsDrug overdose deaths that occurred in Indiana between 2013 and 2017 were identified using the underlying and contributing cause of death ICD-10 codes and abstracted from the Indiana State Department of Health’s annual finalized mortality dataset. Race-specific drug overdose death rates were calculated and compared among racial groups. Drug overdose deaths in blacks were examined for trends over time and by the types of drugs involved.ResultsBetween 2013 and 2017, drug overdose mortality rates for whites increased from 17.05 to 27.28 per 100,000. Blacks saw a higher rate increase during this same time frame: from 10.74 to 30.62 per 100,000, surpassing the mortality rate of whites by the end of 2017. Drug overdose deaths in blacks increased 197% from 2013-2017 and drug specific mortality rate increases were seen across all drug category’s. Opioids, which were involved in 61% of the 2017 drug overdose deaths among blacks, had a rate increase from 3.05 to 18.62 per 100,000 between 2013 and 2017. Drug specific overdose mortality rate increases were also seen for overdoses involving cocaine (1.76 to 10.62 per 100,000), benzodiazepines (0.32 to 3.08 per 100,000), and psychostimulants other than cocaine (0.16 to 1.69 per 100,000) such as amphetamines.ConclusionsWhile white Hoosiers had higher drug overdose mortality rates between 2013 and 2016, black Hoosiers had a greater mortality rate increase and surpassed the mortality rate in whites in 2017. Opioids, the most frequently involved substance in overdose deaths among blacks from 2013-2017, showed increasing rates during this time period. However, increases in drug specific overdose mortality rates for cocaine, benzodiazepines, and psychostimulants other than cocaine also call for public health attention. These results promote the inclusion of minority health experts in drug overdose prevention efforts and issue a call for future prevention efforts to be targeted toward the state’s largest minority population.
Vulnerability of Women in Situation of Violence in Specialized Service
Authors: Paz Potiguara de Oliveira , Silva Pires Natália , Becker Vieira Leticia , Rigatto Witt Regina
Published: May 2019

Objective: To analyze the vulnerabilities of women cared for in a Reference Center to Women in Situation of Violence. Method: Qualitative study, from semi-structured interviews with 15 women, in 2017 and 2018. Data analysis occurred through thematic content analysis. Results: The category “vulnerability of women in situation of violence” covered social isolation, fear, or shame in denouncing, financial dependence, loss of freedom, fragile self-esteem, lack of formal support, decision to denounce and seeking help, interpersonal bond, protective measure, and difficulty of access to information. Conclusions: Vulnerability was apprehended in its individual and programmatic dimensions, inter-related with the social dimension. These vulnerabilities must be considered in the formulation of policies for care of women in situation of violence, given that it is the first step for gender equality and eliminate violence against women
Health Status of the Elderly in Life Centers
Authors: Salamanca Ramos Emilce , Velasco Páez Zulma Johana , Baquero Álvarez Nelson
Published: May 2019

Objective: To identify the sociodemographic and health characteristics of the elderly in the Life Center programs in four municipalities of the department of Meta, Colombia. Materials and Methods: Descriptive study with quantitative variables, non-probabilistic design with selection of units by discretionary sampling, in a sample of 819 older adults. A cognitive evaluation was carried out, along with depression scale, basic activities of daily living, evaluation of gait and balance, index for the instrumental activity of daily living, and comorbidity index. Results: The multiple correspondence analysis indicates independent men with absence of non-depressive comorbidity and null risk of falls. In turn, women (profile: without studies, widowed) do have comorbidity, cognitive impairment, dependence, and greater fall risk. Conclusions: It is fundamental to work on strengthening the formation of professionals, community agents, caregivers of older adults, as well as in the development of programs for health promotion that foster active aging.
Simulación de Retroiluminación Utilizando Diodo Emisor de Luz: Un Caso de Estudio en la Carretera CA-13
Authors: Aragón Cuchilla Omar , Cruz Ceballos Paola , Sheldon Flowers Bryon
Published: May 2019

Este artículo hace una simulación de retroiluminación utilizando diodo emisor de luz (LED) en sustitución de iluminación con lámparas de sodio de alta presión (HPS), además presenta un análisis costo-beneficio evaluando diversos aspectos técnicos y económicos del caso de estudio. La simulación de la retroiluminación fue ejecutada con el software DIAlux. Para llevar a cabo el estudio, se seleccionó la carretera CA-13 en La Ceiba, Honduras, la cual es una autopista de interconexión con el océano Atlántico centroamericano. El estudio tuvo como objetivo estimar si se satisfacen los requisitos técnicos y económicos para la retroadaptación de las estructuras de iluminación en el área de estudio.Los hallazgos del estudio demuestran que, aunque los costos iniciales de la retroadaptación de la iluminación tradicional, utilizando diodo emisor de luz son altos, los ahorros de energía y reducción en gastos por mantenimiento son significativos, siendo estas las principales motivaciones de por qué muchas ciudades conducen proyectos de carreteras con tecnología LED. Para el caso propuesto, la energía ahorrada es de 233 MWh (53.3 %), en términos de dinero los ahorros ascienden a USD 38,987 anualmente en comparación con las lámparas de sodio de alta presión. Financieramente, este es un proyecto con un periodo de amortización de 5 años, el VPN posee un valor positivo de USD 196,689, y hay una TIR alta de 20.5 %, siendo un proyecto atractivo para potenciales inversores. Además, la relación costo-beneficio es de 1.83; por lo tanto, el proyecto se considera viable. Adicionalmente, la reducción de las emisiones de dióxido de carbono con la implementación de una tecnología de energía limpia se estima en 77.5 toneladas de CO² anualmente.En conclusión, las luces LED para iluminación de carreteras, ofrecen una solución eficaz y cada vez más rentable al desafío del desarrollo del consumo de energía municipal, de los gastos de la red de luz carreteras, de la reducción de emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero y de la calidad urbana.
Retrospectiva al Desarrollo de Chatbots y Procesamiento del Lenguaje Natural
Authors: Alemán Espinoza José Wilfredo , Ruiz Vargas Mario Rafael , Aguilar Juarez Ernesto Alexander
Published: May 2019

Los chatbots se han vuelto cada vez más populares, en parte gracias a la gran cantidad de herramientas disponibles para que los desarrolladores puedan implementar un agente conversacional en plataformas tan populares como Facebook, en solo unos minutos. Sin embargo, el desarrollo de entidades conversacionales no es nuevo, y hay varios enfoques para proveer Procesamiento del Lenguaje Natural a dichas entidades, de forma que se evite la trampa de implementar chatbots que no proveen ningún valor y evitar administrar un chatbot basado en una estructura if-then-else. El presente trabajo recopila trabajos históricos influyente en el campo de la creación de entidades conversacionales, o chatbots y habla sobre algunos enfoques para su implementación.
Outcomes in Multidisciplinary Team-based Approach in Geriatric Hip Fracture Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: Patel Jay N. , Klein David S. , Sreekumar Swathy , Liporace Frank A. , Yoon Richard S.
Published: May 2019

Introduction:

This systematic review analyzes the literature on the treatment of geriatric hip fractures by a multidisciplinary hip fracture service including geriatricians/internists and orthopaedic surgeons and what impact this has on patient outcomes.

Methods:

A systematic review of several databases was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Studies comparing an orthopaedic-led care model versus a coordinated orthogeriatrics care model or a geriatrics-led care model to treat hip fractures with reported outcomes for time to surgery, length of stay, readmission rates, and postoperative mortality were included.

Results:

Seventeen articles fitting the inclusion criteria were included. Differences between the results of an orthopaedic-led care model versus a coordinated orthogeriatrics care model or a geriatrics-led care model were assessed using chi-squared tests. With patients admitted under a coordinated orthogeriatrics care model or a geriatrics-led care model, there is a statistically significant decrease in time to surgery (P = 0.045), length of stay (P = 0.0036), and postoperative mortality rates (P = 0.0034).

Conclusions:

Although a heterogeneous group of studies, the aggregate data from several studies using an orthogeriatrics care model or a geriatrics-led care model trend toward improvements across several clinical and cost-related outcome measures: decreased time to surgery, shorter length of stay, improved postoperative clinical outcomes, decreased mortality, and lower cost.
Developing Social Resilience and Building a Culture of Nationalism in the City of Batam, Indonesia
Authors: Delima Sylvia P. , Wirutomo Paulus , Moersidik Setyo S. , Alamsyah Abimanyu T.
Published: May 2019

International ports serve and expedited interaction between nations. Building a modern international port city and advanced society dwellers within it heavily depends on socially sustainable development, and on the level of social resilience of its residents. The rapid development of an international port city cannot disregard many foreign interests in the City’s decision making; therefore, the lack of a culture of nationalism is investigated. This paper tries to portray that building social resilience is hand-in-hand with building a culture of nationalism, and it exists in the international port city setting such as the City of Batam. A mixed method analysis is used to get determinants of social resilience and nationalism. It is used a systematic review of peer-reviewed academic journal articles published between 2013 and 2018 to scope and synthesize assessment criteria; then it is compared with the quality of socio-cultural life condition from the survey and in-depth interview. The analysis results show a correlation between economic and political powers and building the local identity and culture of nationalism. In the context of being local, being national, and being "other" in the regional area, this study also shows that building a culture of nationalism is related to socially sustainable development, and nationalism is not correlated with the place of living but to the efforts of citizen participation in sustainable development. Therefore, building social resilience is also building a culture of nationalism, and it makes an international port city distinctly unique despite its internationalism characteristic.
Influence of Transformational Leadership and Public Service Motivation on Job Performance of Nurses in Thailand
Authors: Trichandhara Kanon , Somrongthong Ratana , Rinthaisong Idsaratt
Published: May 2019

Leaders’ role is significant in motivating employee performance. The present study examines the influence of transformational leadership and public service motivation (PSM) on task performance of nurses in three southernmost provinces in Thailand. Based on the data collected from 813 nurses in public hospitals, the results showed that the proposed model was well-fitted to the empirical data. The results of the study indicated that transformational leadership and public service motivation had effects directly on both task performance and contextual performance. Furthermore, transformational leadership had indirect effects on task performance and contextual performance through public service motivation. These findings suggest that nurses’ job performance could be enhanced by the motivational influence of their immediate leaders.
NAFTA Country Impacts: 25 Years After Implementation
Authors: Barrows Samuel D.
Published: May 2019

This study reviews research on various aspects of trade, free trade agreements, and NAFTA specifically. With the twenty-fifth anniversary of the NAFTA enactment in January of 2019 between Canada, Mexico and the U.S., it is an opportune time to review some of the history and expectations leading up to the agreement. The economic performances of the three countries are also evaluated over the twenty-five year study time frame. Eleven metrics are used to make a general assessment as to whether the actual country performances matched the expectations. Based on the data, NAFTA was a positive influence on the three countries. Tariffs were reduced; FDI was increased; trade grew between the three countries especially intermediate trade related to supply chains; savings rates increased; inflation was reduced; unemployment also fell for two of the three countries while GDP per person soared for those same two countries. In summary, NAFTA was a success.
(Im)Possibility of Learning Science Through Livelihood Activities at Community Schools in Nepal
Authors: Acharya Kamal Prasad , Rajbhandary Rajani , Acharya Milan
Published: May 2019

The Science in the Learning Home (SciLH) program was designed to address two well-documented, inter-related educational problems observed in the Community High Schools in Nepal. The first relates to the achievement of students in science in Secondary Education Examination (SEE), which is below average (33 out of 75 i.e. 44%), and the second concerns the insufficiencies of the resources and instruction to discourse their traditional and livelihood requirements through school science learning activities. Funded by the University Grants Commission (UGC), Nepal, as a Small Research Development and Innovation Grants (SRDIG) to the faculty member, SciLH is a title set by the researcher to provide a new and innovative concept to learn science from the home and cultural practices. The tenth-grade high school students and the community people (parents) participated in the study. Livelihood practices and activities at the home link SciLH concept aligns with the school science curriculum and textbooks with that of cultural practices. This research article offers a framework to explore factors which support the accomplishment of the ethnically different student population and parents using the outline of ethno-perspective.
Key Emerging Issues in Higher Education, Fiji
Authors: Goundar Prashneel Ravisan
Published: May 2019

Fiji, an island nation located in the South Pacific has three major higher education institutions namely, “The Fiji National University, The University of the South Pacific which is also ‘the oldest university’ in the country and The University of Fiji”. This paper reviews key emerging issues that are being encountered in higher education (HE) in Fiji. The key issues’ faced by these universities, is showing a similar trend in higher education internationally which this paper examines. Plagiarism continues to be a global phenomenon which the literature objectively highlights along with problems arising due to heavy workload and negligence of not incorporating inclusive education. The paper explores possible solutions to these issues drawing evidence from the available literature. Further research on individual universities would provide greater data for analysis as well as broader solutions to the issues.
The Effect of Gender on Career Progression: A Conceptual Model
Authors: Weerarathna Ranitha Sachinthana , Hapurugala Suchira
Published: May 2019

This paper attempts to develop a conceptual model to test the effect of gender on career progression. In the Sri Lankan context, there is a perception that there is difference between female oriented jobs and male oriented jobs. When economic statistics and company related details are considered, it can be surmised that there is an impact of gender on career progression. This research paper proposes definitions for variables related to career progression and career advancement in organizations. Based on these definitions and on an extensive literature survey, the current researchers will develop a conceptual framework to test the effect of gender on career progression.
Surveys on the Consumption of Attiéké (Traditional and a Commercial, Garba) in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Assanvo Justine Bomo , N’zi Agbo Georges , Farah Zakaria
Published: May 2019

Traditional attiéké and commercial attiéké Garba are fermented cassava semolina, steamed and prized by people living in the big cities of Côte d'Ivoire and elsewhere. Attiéké Garba is a derivative of the traditional attiéké resulting from intended manufacturing defects. A consumption survey was therefore conducted in Abidjan (big city) and two departments, Dabou and Jacqueville, major production areas of attiéké and Garba, to assess the importance and determinants of consumption of 4 types of attiéké (Adjoukrou, Ebrié, Alladjan and Garba), consumer preferences and to identify the descriptors of quality that motivate the consumption of these food products. Surveys showed that 99% of respondents consume regularly 1 to 2 times attiéké (traditional or commercial) per day. The consumption of attiéké is related to the organoleptic properties of the different types of attiéké mainly taste (65%), brightness (35%), absence of fibers (33%), color (22%) and odor (21%). The consumption of attiéké Garba is linked to its character of cheap food. Despite the preference of attiéké Adjoukrou (38%) and Ebrié (29%) for their better quality and popularity, the consumption of Garba (10%) is growing. Income, nationality or ethnicity, sex, socio-professional status and educational level have a major influence on the choice of a type of attiéké. The share of consumption of traditional attiéké and commercial attiéké Garba for middle-income consumers (70,000 CFA F  200,000 CFA F) is respectively 23.44% and 7.33% while it is 21.03% and 41.35% respectively for low-income consumers (r <70 000 CFA F).
The Balanced Obligation and the Basis for Compliance in International Law: Reflections on the Question of International Obligation
Authors: Botchway Thomas Prehi
Published: May 2019

In this essay, we use the implementation of multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) in developing countries (specifically, the implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity in Ghana) to illustrate why and how States can implement international agreements and for that matter comply with international law without necessarily compromising on equally implementing effective policies to meet their domestic responsibility, particularly when such MEAs may be deemed by some as instruments that curtail the enjoyment of benefits from a State’s natural resources and endowments.

The essay examines the nexus between compliance with international law (international obligation) and meeting domestic responsibility (particularly when the international treaty or agreement to be complied with seems to have some negative implications for the domestic population or State policy). Do States always have an incentive to comply with and execute their international obligations? Should the need for or argument against an international agreement or treaty necessarily lead to its abandonment by States? Can States effectively balance the execution of international obligation with meeting domestic responsibility? Should the effective implementation of a State’s international obligation be regarded as a zero sum for the State’s domestic responsibility? What should be the basis for compliance in international law? These are some of the few questions that this essay seeks to address.
Reshaping Our World: The Opportunities and Challenges Associated with Climate Change-Induced Migration
Authors: Carper Elizabeth W.
Published: May 2019

Climate change-induced migration is an emerging issue that poses significant humanitarian, economic, and political consequences if not addressed on the international stage. Yet, its interdisciplinary nature, while cementing it as a greater sustainable development concern, confounds policymaking. Disregarding the implications of climate change, including but not limited to resource insecurity and overpopulation leading to instability and conflict, only exacerbates the probability of climate change-induced migration becoming a humanitarian disaster. The most prominent hindrance to the development of such a policy is the lack of a universal approach for recognizing climate refugees. Recognition poses opportunities for globalization, however it also poses challenges stemming from negative perceptions of migrants. Nonetheless, this synthesis of existing literature illustrates that collaborative efforts for the international recognition of climate migrants—as well as their capacities for adaptation and resilience—is crucial to create opportunities for sustainable development.

Following the conceptual context regarding climate science and terminology, it is the aim of this review to analyze the adaptive capacity of affected populations and how migration is becoming a form of adaptation itself. Second, in an increasingly-isolationist world, there is a heightened fear of refugees crossing international borders. It is crucial to discuss the securitization of climate change and its classification as a non-traditional security threat. It is apparent that while most climate change-induced migration will be internal, it remains imperative to develop effective international policy. In the subsequent discussion of potential policy avenues, it is argued that given the appropriate opportunities to engage in their new communities, refugees are capable of significant contribution, despite their misperception as dependents. By integrating this information into one comprehensive document, policymakers may acknowledge the importance of recognizing and extending protections to climate migrants.
Optimized Design of Wastewater Treatment Sludge and Municipal Solid Wastes Co-Composting
Authors: Nemati Saeed , Samali Bijan , Sanati Farshad
Published: May 2019

The purpose of this study is nutrient resources recovery by achieving the optimal chemical oxygen demand (COD) and carbon to nitrogen ratio (C/N) in co-composting wastewater treatment plant sludge with Municipal Solid Wastes (MSW). In this effort, the co-composting has been conducted in form of a case study in the southern region of Caspian Sea. In this research, 192 tests were carried out on four series of samples examined in terms of waste to sludge ratio, different aeration period, the percent of porous materials and the moisture content. This study was carried out at a temperature of 65 °C for a 15 day period by application of the in-vessel system and shows that the best ratio for waste to sludge is 2:1, while the 8 hour period is the best aeration period. The porous material which can be added to the composting process is limited to 15% in weight. In other words, any more or less amount of this material will adversely impact the process. Moreover, this research suggests that the sludge dewatering is not required in such processes. In Addition, the efficiency of both COD and C/N reductions equals to about 40%.
Síntesi i aplicacions de les nanopartícules
Authors: Caparrós Yolanda Fernández , Beascoechea Nil , Saiz Judit , Urbaneja Sonia
Published: May 2019

En aquest article, es presenta un treball de recerca, de segon de Batxillerat, on s’ha realitzat la síntesi de nanopartícules d’or i de plata i s’han estudiat les seves propietats i aplicacions.
Editar o no editar. Aquesta és la qüestió
Authors: Martínez Emma
Published: May 2019

El descobriment de l'aplicació de CRISPR / Cas9 a cèl·lules eucariotes ha estat un dels majors avanços en biotecnologia dels últims anys, entre d’altres motius, pels múltiples avantatges que presenta (en comparació amb altres tècniques d’edició genètica) així com les diverses possibles aplicacions i àrees d'investigació que genera. Tot i així, aquest descobrint comporta no només una gran responsabilitat sinó també múltiples reptes a nivell bioètic, científic i social. En aquest article, parlarem d’aquests reptes i explicarem, breument, el projecte ORION, una iniciativa de diàleg públic en qüestions socio-científiques. Per últim, acabarem mencionant el gran potencial didàctic que el debat sobre les implicacions ètiques de la edició genètica i com pot ésser abordat a l’aula.
Training system of the Polish police officers – in the past and today
Authors: Hryszkiewicz Dominik
Published: May 2019

One of the most important areas of activity of the Police, which plays a fundamental role in shaping the internal security of the state, is the educational activity of training centres for these formations. Although they do not deal directly with performance of statutory tasks their importance in the area of, among other things, quality of services, development of formation culture and its identity and elitism is undisputed. The overriding role of police education is to prepare highly specialised staff in strategic areas of combating crime. This staff will effectively perform the statutory tasks of the formation, connected, among others, with the protection of state security and the public order, protection of human life, health and property, as well as widely understood criminological prophylaxis. For a very long time, education has been a fundamental and universal determinant of human development. Educational activity is the basic condition determining, first of all, moral development of a person. Pedagogical activity is a function of cultural development of societies and an opportunity to overcome prejudices and stereotypes. The position of education in the structure of the state's objectives determines its development in the long run in practically all areas. This study is an attempt to systematically look at one of the elements of the internal security subsystem of the state which is modern police education. The system of training and in-service development of the Police in Poland has been a subject of great interest for many years. Currently, the Polish Police are on the verge of major organisational changes which will also result in structural changes in the educational system. The system of training of the largest uniformed formation of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration is the basis for effective and professional training of the police personnel in all kinds of executive and managerial positions. The current solutions in this area are an effect of a specific evolution both in the organizational and structural dimension. The author's intention is to present the issues of Polish police officers training from the moment of the establishment of the State Police to the present day, with particular attention paid to the way of organizing the system of training and in-service development of police officers.
EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE – AN INDISPENSABLE COMPETENCE IN TEACHING AND PHYSIOTHERAPIST PRACTICE
Authors: Romanowska-Tołłoczko Anna , Marks Mirosław , Kołodziej Małgorzata , Kulmatycki Lesław
Published: May 2019

The present study aimed to measure the level of emotional competence in female and male students gaining qualifications to work as teachers of physical education and physiotherapists. It was also intended to determine a relationship between the results obtained in the self-report INTE Scale and two performance tests – the SIE-T and DINEMO invento¬ries. The data were collected among 778 students of University School of Physical Educa-tion in Wrocław in the years 2016-2018. The results indicate that the participants’ level of emotional intelligence could be described as average, which is regarded as too low to meet the demands of working as teachers and physiotherapists. Therefore, it is necessary to offer practical workshops focused on developing interpersonal and intrapersonal skills as a part of the Physical Education and Physiotherapy study programme in order to give students an opportunity to develop comprehensive professional qualifications.
Oral Health Status and Associated Factors in a Subpopulation of Turkish Patients
Authors: KARAASLAN Fatih , DİKİLİTAŞ Ahu , YİĞİT Umut
Published: May 2019

Objectives: Understanding
the oral health behavior and knowing oral health status of a community in order
to facilitate the development of satisfactory dental public health preventive
program. In this context, the
purpose of this study is to investigate oral health behaviour of Turkish
community who live in Usak province besides and to evaluate CPITN and DMFT
index scores according to age, gender and education level.

Materials and Methods: A
face to face questionnaire was conducted for 2412 subjects who were divided
into six age groups to understand their oral health behavior. Periodontal
measurements, and dental caries were applied by three calibrated expert
researchers for all teeth except the third molar.

Results: Healthy periodontal tissue only existed in 153
(10.05%) individuals of 1521 dentate participants. The mean DMFT value observed
was 16.98±6.62. By aging, being male and having low education level, mean DMFT
and CPITN scores showed an upward trend. 10.26% of the participants informed
that they did not brush their teeth and 92.55% of them stated that they did not
floss their teeth. Most of the participants (83.25%) informed that they visited
a dental clinic only in emergency and pain.

Conclusions:
The mean DMFT and CPITN scores increase in accordance
with aging, low education and being male. Low flossing frequency, low
prevalence of tooth brushing and low frequency of going to the dentist
regularly were observed at the end of the study.
Evaluation and Comparison of Two Commercially Available Mouthrinses in Reducing Aerolised Bacteria During Ultrasonic Scaling When Used as a Preprocedural Rinse.
Authors: AMMU Asmita , VARMA Siddhartha , SURAGİMATH Girish , ZOPE Sameer , PİSAL Apurva , GANGAVATİ Rashmi
Published: May 2019

Objective:To compare and evaluate the effect of 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate and commercially available herbal mouthrinse in reducing aerolized bacteria when used as a preprocedural mouth rinse.Materials and Methods:A total of 45 patients were selected and randomly divided into three groups. Group I consisted of 15 patients who rinsed with distilled water for 60 seconds. Group II consisted of 15 patients who rinsed with 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash (Clohex®) for 60 seconds and Group III consisted of 15 patients who rinsed with herbal mouthwash (Hiora®) for 60 seconds. Aerosols produced during the oral prophylaxis procedure were collected on blood agar plates by exposing the plates at patient’s and dentist’s chest area and the exposed plates were incubated at 37°c aerobically for 48 hours. The number of colony forming units (CFU) in aerosol and CFU in the saliva were counted and statistically analyzed. Results:Reduction in the bacterial load using 0.2% of chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash is found to be significant at both patient’s and dentist’s chest area in aerosol produced during scaling followed by herbal mouthrinse.Conclusion:The results of the present study clearly indicate that pre-procedural rinsing with 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate was significantly more effective than herbal mouthrinse in reducing the aerolized bacteria during ultrasonic scaling. Therefore a pre-procedural rinse can significantly reduce the risk for cross contamination.