bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subway Service Down Again? Assessing the Effects of Subway Service Interruptions on Local Surface Transit Performance
Authors: Diab Ehab , Shalaby Amer
Published: September 2018

Cities around the world are keen to offer modern urban transit systems that connect various locations in an efficient and reliable manner with the highest degrees of riders’ experience. These systems may consist of various modes such as buses, streetcars (or trams), and rapid transit systems (e.g., subways). In both research and practice, the quality of transit service has traditionally been measured and investigated on a mode-by-mode basis. Therefore, it is rare to find studies that investigate the impacts of poor performance or breakdown of one transit mode on other functioning modes in multimodal integrated transit systems. This research aims at understanding the impact of subway service interruptions on the speed performance of surface transit in Toronto, Ontario. To do that, a detailed data set of subway service interruptions collected in 2013 by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), the public transit provider in the City of Toronto, was used. In addition, another data set was obtained from the TTC’s automatic vehicle location system for 51 bus and streetcar routes that are within a short walking distance of some subway stations. Using two statistical models, the paper results indicate that subway service interruptions have a statistically significant negative impact on bus and streetcar service operations in terms of slower speeds, with more immediate and intense impacts on streetcar service.
Satellite-Based InSAR Monitoring of Highway Bridges: Validation Case Study on the North Channel Bridge in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Cusson Daniel , Trischuk Ken , Hébert Daniel , Hewus Glenn , Gara Matthew , Ghuman Parwant
Published: September 2018

A space-borne bridge displacement monitoring technology was demonstrated on a major highway bridge in Cornwall (Ontario, Canada) over a 15-month period. Two major challenges had to be overcome and solutions were identified and implemented. The first challenge related to the proper selection and analysis of satellite imagery to optimize the number and signal quality of point targets on the bridge for adequate movement detection and analysis. The second challenge was the comparison and validation of independent sets of data having different measurement methods, reference baselines, and distributions in space and time. The key findings include: (i) the regression analysis of interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) data from the satellite produced the best coherence when fitted against the following three independent variables: height, ambient temperature, and time; (ii) the bridge railings appeared to be excellent natural reflectors with their sharp edges and regular spacing along the bridge, showing a return of over 3,000 clear point targets to the satellite; (iii) the InSAR displacement thermal sensitivity data was found to compare very well to numerical modeling thermal data. The results show great promise and value in applying satellite-based technology for the remote monitoring of highway and railway bridges to alert engineers of excessive movement and, in turn, will help optimize preventive maintenance management, extend structural lifespan, minimize traffic disruptions due to late repair, and ensure structural integrity.
Workforce Retention and Wages in Nursing Homes: An Analysis of Managerial Ownership
Authors: Huang Sean Shenghsiu , Bowblis John R.
Published: September 2018

Owner-managers are administrators that hold significant equity interests in the facility they operate. We examine how the presence of owner-managers is related to the workforce outcomes of retention and wages in nursing homes (NHs). Using a sample of for-profit NHs in Ohio from 2005 to 2015, multivariate regression analysis compares workforce outcomes in facilities operated by owner-managers to salaried managers. On average, owner-managed NHs have higher workforce retention rates, with larger effects among chain-affiliated NHs. Better retention is not achieved through higher wages, as we do not find higher wages at owner-managed NHs. Further qualitative studies are warranted to identify the exact mechanisms which lead to owner-managers having better staff retention rates. Plausible mechanisms include greater autonomy to allocate resources and create policies that foster a work environment that achieves better retention while maintaining financial sustainability.
Psychometric Properties of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support Within Hispanic College Students
Authors: Ermis-Demirtas Hulya , Watson Joshua C. , Karaman Mehmet A. , Freeman Paula , Kumaran Ajitha , Haktanir Abdulkadir , Streeter Ashley M.
Published: September 2018

The purpose of the current study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) within a sample of Hispanic college students. The sample of 223 Hispanic or Latino/a college students consisting of 142 women (65%) and 79 men (35%) was recruited from a Hispanic serving institution in the southern United States. The results of factor analysis confirmed the three-subscale structure of the MSPSS: family, friend, and a significant other.
Reiki for Pain During Hemodialysis: A Feasibility and Instrument Evaluation Study
Authors: Zins Savannah , Hooke Mary Catherine , Gross Cynthia R.
Published: September 2018

Purpose: Pain is a problem for individuals undergoing hemodialysis. Renal disease, comorbidities, concurrent symptoms, and dialysis procedures pose barriers to adequate pain management. The purpose of this study was to evaluate feasibility, examine construct validity of The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) computerized adaptive testing (CAT) instruments, and explore pain benefits of Reiki sessions conducted during hemodialysis. Design: A one group, repeated-measures design was used. Method: Fifteen participants received Reiki for 20 minutes, twice a week for 4 weeks. Pain, fatigue, and depression were evaluated using established symptom scales and PROMIS CAT instruments. Findings: Participants reported general relaxation feelings with Reiki and acceptability of using a touch-screen device to respond to web-based measures. Although staff were initially reluctant to engage patients for Reiki, they reported Reiki did not interfere with workflow and thought Reiki could be integrated into the practice setting. Significant, strong correlations with established symptom scales support construct validity of PROMIS CAT instruments. There was a significant decrease in mean symptom scores after four weeks of Reiki. Effect size values suggest a range of practical significance. Conclusions: Findings suggest Reiki provides symptom relief for individuals receiving hemodialysis, and randomized clinical trials to establish Reiki’s pain benefits in this population are warranted.
Fractal analysis as an innovative approach for evaluating the condition of railway tracks
Authors: Landgraf M , Hansmann F
Published: September 2018

The deterioration of ballast and the consequences of weak subsoil increase the need for track maintenance. These problems reduce the service life of tracks, and a higher maintenance budget is required. This paper introduces an innovative method for evaluating the condition of the ballast and the subsoil. Fractal analysis of the vertical track geometry enables infrastructure managers to determine the root cause of track irregularities by quantifying the wavelength characteristics of the common track geometry data. This methodology determines whether the ballast or the substructure condition is the cause of poor track quality. Fractal analysis has been carried out to date on the main network of the Austrian Federal Railways, which comprises some 4000 km of track, as well as within the network of Suisse Federal Railways (∼5000 km). Additionally, several lines in the United States (Amtrak), Belgium (InfraBel), and Denmark (BaneDanmark) have been evaluated. A detailed validation process has been carried out to investigate different characteristics and their correlation to the in situ behavior of the track. This research is now showing promising results after being cross-checked with historical data and compared to the implemented maintenance measures. On-site inspections have confirmed the evaluated component-specific condition.
Social cohesion, condom use, and sexually transmitted infections among female sex workers living with HIV in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Carrasco MA , Barrington C , Perez M , Donastorg Y , Kerrigan D
Published: September 2018

This cross-sectional study examines the relationship between social cohesion with consistent condom use (CCU) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among the Abriendo Puertas (Opening Doors) cohort of female sex workers (FSWs) living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the Dominican Republic (n = 228). Using data from the follow-up survey of the cohort, we conducted multivariate logistic regression to explore these dynamics. Social cohesion was significantly associated with CCU between FSWs living with HIV and their clients in the last month (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11–2.45) and STI prevalence among FSWs (AOR: 3.76, CI: 1.159–12.162). Social cohesion was not associated with CCU between FSWs living with HIV and their steady partners. However, both illicit drug use in the past six months (AOR = 0.11, CI: 0.023–0.57) and pregnancy intentions (AOR = 0.11; CI: 0.02–0.42) were significantly associated with CCU with steady partners. Findings highlight the differential role of social cohesion on condom use outcomes between FSWs living with HIV and their paying clients versus steady partners. Research on the pathways via which cohesion influences condom use among sex workers and their clients is merited, as is research regarding the role of drug use and pregnancy intentions on condom use with steady partners.
Oral and vaginal HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis product attribute preferences among female sex workers in the Mexico-US border region
Authors: Pines HA , Strathdee SA , Hendrix CW , Bristow CC , Harvey-Vera A , Magis-Rodríguez C , Martinez G , Semple SJ , Patterson TL
Published: September 2018

To assess the potential uptake of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) products among female sex workers (FSWs) vulnerable to HIV infection, we examined the influence of product attributes on willingness to use products among 271 HIV-negative FSWs in Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico (2016–2017). Via five-point Likert scale ratings, participants indicated their willingness to use hypothetical products with six attributes: formulation (pill, gel, liquid, or ring), frequency of use (daily, on-demand, or monthly), cost per use (10 or 200 pesos), effectiveness (40% or 80%), side effects (none or mild), and access point (healthcare clinic or non-governmental organization). Conjoint analysis was used to determine the impact of attributes on product ratings and identify preferred product attributes. Multinomial logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with formulation preferences. In both cities, formulation and frequency of use had the greatest impact on ratings. Participants in Ciudad Juarez indicated a strong preference for oral pills, whereas participants in Tijuana indicated roughly equal preferences for oral pills and vaginal gels. Monthly product use was preferred in both cities. Compared to preferring oral pills (38%), preferring vaginal gels (28%) was associated with practicing vaginal lubrication (adjusted odds ratio = 2.08; 95% confidence interval: 1.07–4.04). Oral PrEP may be acceptable to many FSWs in Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez; however, continued development of behaviorally-congruent vaginal PrEP products may also facilitate uptake and ensure sufficient coverage.
Preoperative Mental Health Score and Postoperative Outcome After Hallux Valgus Surgery
Authors: Lai Sean Wei Hong , Tang Camelia Qian Ying , Graetz Arjunan Edward Kumanan , Thevendran Gowreeson
Published: September 2018

Background:

Preoperative mental health status as a predictor of operative outcome has been a growing area of interest. In this paper, the correlation between preoperative mental health status and postoperative functional outcome following scarf osteotomy for hallux valgus correction was explored.

Methods:

Parameters were tabulated preoperatively and postoperatively at a minimum of 1-year follow-up. They included the Short Form 36 (SF-36), American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) forefoot score, hallux valgus angle (HVA), and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) measurements and the visual analog score (VAS) to quantify pain. SF-36 mental component summary (MCS) score was used as a surrogate for patient’s mental health status. Seventy-six consecutive cases were analyzed at a minimum of 1-year follow-up.

Results:

There were significant improvements in all 8 domains of the SF-36, with the mean MCS score increasing from 52.3 ± 7.6 preoperatively to 55.7 ± 6.8 postoperatively. Preoperative MCS scores were not correlated to changes in AOFAS score, PCS score, VAS pain score, HVA or IMA. Preoperative MCS was observed to be correlated to postoperative AOFAS ( r = 0.381, P = .001) and PCS score ( r = 0.315, P = .006). Patients with a preoperative MCS score ⩾50 had a statistically higher postoperative AOFAS and PCS score than patients with MCS score <50. There was no correlation between preoperative MCS scores and improvements in radiologic parameters. There was also no correlation between the improvements in radiologic parameters and improvements in both the AOFAS and VAS pain scores.

Conclusion:

Preoperative mental health (as measured by the MCS score) was only correlated to postoperative functional outcome (as measured by the postoperative AOFAS and PCS score), but not other postoperative outcomes (VAS pain score, radiologic parameters).

Level of Evidence:

Level III, comparative study.
Evaluation of the prescribing patterns, adverse effects, and drug interactions of oral chemotherapy agents in an outpatient cancer center
Authors: Solomon Jenna M , Ajewole Veronica B , Schneider Amy M , Sharma Manvi , Bernicker Eric H
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Although oral chemotherapy offers advantages over intravenous chemotherapy, it creates a unique set of challenges. Potential barriers include treatment complexity, patient responsibility for medication adherence and monitoring, reduced healthcare contact, and increased financial burden. The purpose of this study is to estimate the prevalence of drug-related problems among a sample of patients treated with oral chemotherapy agents.

Methods

A single-center, retrospective chart review was conducted on patients prescribed oral chemotherapy at our institution between 1 January 2017 and 31 August 2017. The primary endpoint was the incidence of drug-related toxicities within 90 days of starting treatment. Secondary endpoints included incidence of drug–drug interactions, proportion of patients receiving medication education by a clinical pharmacist, and quantification of issues related to medication access.

Results

Charts of 100 patients were reviewed. Median time to oral chemotherapy receipt by the patient from the day the order was written was eight days. Prior to initiating therapy, 27% of patients received education by a clinical pharmacist. Toxicity checks were conducted by the provider at 30, 60, and 90 days for 80%, 65%, and 48% of patients, respectively. Treatment-related toxicities secondary to oral chemotherapy were reported by 79% of patients, with 55% classified as severe. Potential drug interactions were in 55% of the patients.

Conclusion

Data from this study have highlighted avenues for pharmacists to make an impact on patients newly started on oral chemotherapy. Opportunities exist to increase patient education, ensure appropriate follow-up, and assess adherence while preventing and managing treatment-related toxicities.
Renal toxicity with liposomal doxorubicin in metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Yemm Kristyn E , Alwan Laura M , Malik A Bilal , Salazar Lupe G
Published: September 2018

There is no preferred treatment option for metastatic breast cancer; therefore, treatment should provide palliation, prolong survival, control symptoms, and improve quality of life. Liposomal doxorubicin formulations have been shown to have less alopecia, nausea, vomiting, and myelosuppression than traditional doxorubicin, but more skin toxicities and infusion reactions. Prolonged use of liposomal doxorubicin may be associated with unrecognized or less well-defined toxicities. We report a case of acute kidney injury and progressively worsening chronic kidney disease necessitating dialysis in a patient who received prolonged therapy with liposomal doxorubicin for treatment of metastatic breast cancer. This case report should give caution to providers considering prolonged use of liposomal doxorubicin in the metastatic breast cancer setting as we observed sustained renal toxicity, long past the cessation of treatment.
Development of composites, reinforced by novel 3D woven orthogonal fabrics with enhanced auxeticity
Authors: Khan Muhammad I , Akram Jehanzeb , Umair Muhammad , Hamdani Syed TA , Shaker Khubab , Nawab Yasir , Zeeshan Muhammad
Published: September 2018

Auxetic materials are under great attention of researchers due to their excellent mechanical response under certain conditions. Previous works have been carried out in knitted or uni-stretch woven fabrics. In the present study, three-dimensional (3D) woven structures were produced and the effect of float length of ground weave and binding yarn on auxeticity of the fabric was investigated. Eight different 3D orthogonal woven structures/reinforcements were produced on rapier dobby loom by changing the float length in ground weave and binding yarns. Hand layup technique was used for composite fabrication, while green epoxy resin was used as a matrix. For investigating the auxeticity, 3D reinforcement samples were subjected to tensile loading and change in their thickness was measured. The results showed that 3D woven reinforcements with equal and maximum float length of ground weave and binding yarn showed greater auxetic behavior, because both weaves support each other and room for opening of structure increases. As the difference between the float length of ground weave and binding yarns increases, the auxeticity of reinforcement decreases because the ground weave and binding yarn cancel out the effect of each other. Moreover, the impact energy absorption of the developed composites was found to increase with the increase in float length, justifying that the structures are auxetic in nature.
Study on dual-monomer melt-grafted poly(lactic acid) compatibilized poly(lactic acid)/polyamide 11 blends and toughened melt-blown nonwovens
Authors: Zhu Feichao , Su Juanjuan , Wang Mingjun , Hussain Munir , Yu Bin , Han Jian
Published: September 2018

With increasing demands on the high-performance and environmental-friendly melt-blown nonwovens (MBs) for separation and filtration, herein, we reported a poly(lactic acid)/polyamide 11 (PLA/PA11) 100% bio-based MBs in situ compatibilized by dual-monomer glycidyl methacrylate–styrene melt-grafted poly(lactic acid) (PLA-g-(St-co-GMA)). The morphology, crystallization, thermal and rheological behaviors of reactive extruded PLA/PA11/PLA-g-(St-co-GMA) melt blends were investigated, and the structure and filtration performance of corresponding MBs were fully characterized. The results indicated that the interface between PLA and PA11 were effectively improved due to the compatibilizer of PLA-g-(St-co-GMA). PA11 promoted the cold crystallization and enhanced the thermal stability of PLA matrix. The reactive blends displayed a higher viscosity with unchanged rheological behaviors compared with PLA. In comparison with PLA MBs, the average fiber diameter and pore size of PLA/PA11/PLA-g-(St-co-GMA) MBs were slightly increased, whereas the strength and toughness were significantly improved. All the PLA/PA11/PLA-g-(St-co-GMA) MBs presented high air permeability and low filtration resistance. High filtration efficiency (>99.8%) could also be obtained especially for the target particles with diameters larger than 2.5 µm.
A Rare Case of Acute Pancreatitis Due to Very Severe Hypertriglyceridemia (>10 000 mg/dL) Successfully Resolved With Insulin Therapy Alone: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Gayam Vijay , Mandal Amrendra Kumar , Gill Arshpal , Khalid Mazin , Sangha Ruby , Khalid Mowyad , Garlapati Pavani , Bhattarai Bikash
Published: September 2018

A 48-year-old male presented to the psychiatric emergency room for dysmorphic mood. He was admitted to medical service for the management of hyponatremia, which was discovered in his initial laboratory workup. After the first day of admission, he developed abdominal pain and fever, and subsequent laboratory work revealed a triglyceride level of 10 612 mg/dL (reference range = 0-194 mg/dL). Computed tomography scan of the abdomen and pelvis revealed a hypodense lesion in the pancreas surrounded by a moderate amount of peripancreatic fluid suggestive of hemorrhagic pancreatitis. Based on the laboratory findings and imaging, we diagnosed acute pancreatitis (AP) secondary to hypertriglyceridemia. The patient was initiated on intravenous fluids and insulin to help decrease the triglyceride level with the plan to initiate apheresis. However, the patient improved on insulin therapy alone, which negated the need for apheresis, and the patient was discharged with fenofibrate with no further complications. While elevated triglycerides are a well-known cause of AP, we sought to assess various treatment options in management, especially considering a severely elevated triglyceride level of >10 000 mg/dL. Along with supportive care in AP, there are additional options in hypertriglyceridemia AP, including heparin, insulin, apheresis, antioxidants, and fibrates. Currently, there are no clear guidelines favoring one therapeutic option over the other.
An Atypical Presentation of Tuberculomas in an Immunocompetent Host
Authors: Venter Frederick , Heidari Arash , Galang Kristine , Viehweg Macsen
Published: September 2018

Tuberculomas are an intracranial form of tuberculosis that account for a third of intracranial lesions in endemic areas. If symptomatic, they usually present as meningitis in an immunocompromised host; however, in patients without signs of meningitis, clinical features are essentially indistinguishable from any other space-occupying lesion. We present a case of central nervous system tuberculosis in an immunocompetent host who presented with new-onset seizures.
The role of vitamin D in obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome
Authors: Archontogeorgis Kostas , Nena Evangelia , Papanas Nikolaos , Steiropoulos Paschalis
Published: September 2018

Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) is a common disorder of multifactorial pathogenesis and is associated with obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin with an important function in calcium absorption and homeostasis, which is also implicated in several nonskeletal conditions. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is increasing worldwide and is associated with similar metabolic disturbances to OSAS. Moreover, recent data suggest that in OSAS patients serum levels of vitamin D are lower compared with non-apnoeic subjects. However, the mechanisms linking vitamin D deficiency and OSAS are not completely understood and several hypotheses have been advanced. To date, a limited number of studies have assessed the association between lower serum concentrations of vitamin D and OSAS, and have reported inconsistent results. Similarly, contradictory results have been produced by studies which evaluated the effect of continuous positive airway pressure treatment on serum vitamin D levels. The aim of this review is to summarise current knowledge on the association between OSAS and vitamin D levels.

Key points

Vitamin D insufficiency prevalence is increasing worldwide and presents with similar comorbidities and risk factors to OSAS.

The nonskeletal actions of vitamin D may contribute to the development of OSAS through immune system modulation, myopathy and inflammation.

Studies evaluating serum vitamin D concentrations in OSAS patients and the effect of CPAP treatment report contradictory results, often influenced by confounding factors, such as obesity.

There appears to be potential for use of vitamin D supplementation in OSAS patients as a means of reducing the incidence of cardiovascular disease, a comorbidity common in both conditions.

Educational aims

To assess the potential association between OSAS and serum levels of vitamin D.

To discuss the pathogenetic mechanisms linking OSAS and vitamin D insufficiency.

To illustrate the effect of CPAP treatment on vitamin D concentration in OSAS patients.
Is there room for further innovation in inhaled therapy for airways disease?
Authors: Biddiscombe Martyn F. , Usmani Omar S.
Published: September 2018

Inhaled medication is the cornerstone in the treatment of patients across a spectrum of respiratory diseases including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The benefits of inhaled therapy have long been recognised but the most important innovations have occurred over the past 60 years, beginning with the invention of the pressurised metered dose inhaler. However, despite over 230 different device and drug combinations currently being available, disease control is far from perfect.

Here we look at how innovation in inhaler design may improve treatments for respiratory diseases and how new formulations may lead to treatments for diseases beyond the lungs. We look at the three main areas where innovation in inhaled therapy is most likely to occur: 1) device engineering and design; 2) chemistry and formulations; and 3) digital technology associated with inhalers. Inhaler design has improved significantly but considerable challenges still remain in order to continually innovate and improve targeted drug delivery to the lungs. Healthcare professionals want see innovations that motivate their patients to achieve their goal of improving their health, through better adherence to treatment. Patients want devices that are easy to use and to see that their efforts are rewarded by improvements in their condition.

Key points

The dictionary definition of innovation is the introduction of new things, ideas or ways of doing something. We show how this definition can be applied to inhaled therapy.

We take a look at the past to see what drove innovation in inhaler design and how this has led to the current devices.

We look at the current drivers of innovation in engineering, chemistry and digital technology and predict how this may translate to new devices.

Can innovation help the healthcare professional manage their patients better?

What does the patient expect from innovation in their device?

Educational aims

To understand the importance of inhaled medication in the treatment of lung diseases.

To understand how innovation has helped advance some of the devices patients use today from basic and inefficient designs.

To understand the obstacles that prevent patients from receiving optimal treatment from their inhalers.

To understand how innovation in inhaler design can lead to improved treatment for patients and widen the range of diseases that can be treatedviathe inhaled route.
The implementation and use of the "5s" and Kaizen program for the management of sewing offices of a middle family company
Authors: Cardoso Wagner , Bassi Edson , Bertosse Jéssica Fernanda , Saes Rafael Mestre , Achcar Jorge Alberto
Published: September 2018

A century that defined the price of its product was the company. Today, in the 21st century, who defines the price is the market. That is why one of the managers' roles today is to look after maintenance and seek continuous improvements in order to reduce costs so that profits are maintained or raised. This article deals precisely with this, through the statistics applied to performance and quality indicators. Before starting the kaizen process, this article discusses the implementation of 5S in the target company of the case study in order to organize and standardize the processes. After 5S, the kaizen was implanted and data were collected that were treated statistically. It was concluded that the system was confirmed by the statistical results after the treatment and analysis of the data, and that the main purpose of these two tools, 5S and Kaizen, is to improve competitiveness and why not say, Have more assurance of the company's sustainability.
A cross-cultural analysis of celebrity practice in microblogging
Authors: Zhang Min , Wu Doreen D
Published: September 2018

This study attempts to explore how celebrities manage rapport with followers through an array of speech acts in microblogging – the essential building blocks of virtual identity on social media. Six months of postings of eight of the most-followed Twitter and Weibo celebrities from USA and China were retrieved and analysed. A taxonomy of nine speech acts for rapport management was identified to give a categorised descriptive snapshot of celebrities’ microblogging discourse. The results revealed that the celebrities from both countries employ self-disclosing speech acts extensively to report events, anecdotes, or initiate small talk with fans for solidarity building. In addition, the attention fostered by the personalised, affective, and eye-catching self-disclosure posts is frequently directed to the posts promoting their professional activities or products to commercialise the solidarity as much needed for maintaining a strong fan base. In general, the celebrity practices in USA and China display a converging trend as the prevalent speech acts are largely overlapping across cultures, while culture-specific microblogging behaviours were also identified from the less frequently performed speech acts.
Structure of the solubility diagram in the Na2SO4-Na2CO3-NaHCO3-H2O system at 0, 25 and 50 °С
Authors: Soliev L. , Jumaev M. T. , Turaev R. O. , Makhmadov H. R. , Dzabborov B. B.
Published: September 2018

The solubilities in invariant points of Na2SO4-Na2CO3-NaHCO3-H2O system were investigated at 0, 25 and 50 °С. The phase equilibria in the said system were discussed, and phase diagrams at given temperatures were constructed.
Yaratıcı Yazma Çalışmalarının Yazmaya Yönelik Tutuma ve Yaratıcı Yazma Başarısına Etkisi
Authors: ÖZDEMİR Serpil , ÇEVİK Arzu
Published: September 2018

Bu araştırmanın amacı, yaratıcı yazma çalışmalarının yazmaya yönelik tutumlara ve yaratıcı yazma başarısına etkisini belirlemektir. Araştırmada ön test – son test kontrol gruplu deneysel desen kullanılmıştır. Çalışma grubunda Bartın il merkezinde bulunan Gazi Ortaokulu beşinci sınıflarından 50 öğrenci yer almaktadır. Yazmaya yönelik tutumlar Yazı Yazmaya Yönelik Tutum Ölçeği ile belirlenmiştir. Yaratıcı yazma başarısı öğrenci kompozisyonları ile belirlenmiştir. Öğrenci kompozisyonları Yaratıcı Yazma İçin Değerlendirme Ölçütleri Formu ile puanlanmıştır. Deney ve kontrol grupları arasında fark olup olmadığını belirlemek üzere bağımsız gruplar için t testi, grupların kendi içinde fark olup olmadığını tespit etmek için bağımlı gruplar t testi yapılmıştır. Yaratıcı yazma başarısını değerlendirmek için öğrenci kompozisyonları iki uzman tarafından değerlendirilmiştir. Puanların güvenirliği Pearson korelasyon katsayısı ile belirlemiştir. Deneysel çalışmalar sonrasında yazmaya yönelik tutum açısından deney grubunun ön ve son testleri arasında anlamlı bir fark olduğu; kontrol grubunun ön ve son testleri arasında ise anlamlı bir fark olmadığı görülmüştür. Deney ve kontrol gruplarının son test ortalamaları arasında deney grubu lehine anlamlı bir fark olduğu belirlenmiştir. Yaratıcı yazma başarısı açısından deney grubunun ön ve son testleri arasında anlamlı bir fark olduğu belirlenmiştir. Kontrol grubunun ön ve son testleri arasında da yaratıcı yazma başarısı ön test-son test puanları arasında anlamlı bir fark belirlenmiştir. Deney ve kontrol gruplarının son test puanları arasında yapılan karşılaştırmada, deney grubu lehine anlamlı bir fark olduğu görülmüştür.
Logam Berat Kerang Totok (Geloina erosa) di Timur Segara Anakan dan Barat Sungai Donan, Cilacap
Authors: Irawati Yeni , Lumbanbatu Djamar T.F , Sulistiono Sulistiono
Published: September 2018

Aktivitas industri di perairan Segara Anakan dan Sungai Donan dapat menghasilkan limbah berupa logam berat, yang dapat membahayakan lingkungan perairan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis residu logam berat Pb, Hg, Cu dan Cd pada daging kerang totok (Geloina erosa) yang diambil dari 2 stasiun, melihat hubungan bobot total kerang dengan residu logam berat dalam daging kerang dan menetapkan batas aman konsumsi daging kerang bagi masyarakat. Pengukuran kandungan logam berat dilakukan menggunakan AAS (Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer). Hasil pengukuran residu logam Pb, Hg, Cu dan Cd dalam daging kerang totok yaitu 0,005-0,145 mg/kg, <0,002 mg/kg, 0,209-2.374 mg/kg, dan 0,0050,152 mg/kg yang mengindikasikan bahwa residu logam berat dalam
daging dibawah ambang batas yang telah ditetapkan. Hubungan bobot total
kerang dengan residu logam berat dalam daging ialah negatif. Hasil perhitungan batas maksimum konsumsi kerang totok yaitu 5,3-228,8 g/minggu (dewasa) dan 1,6-68,6 g/minggu (anak-anak).

 
LIMBAH INDUSTRI FILET IKAN PATIN UNTUK HIDROLISAT PROTEIN
Authors: Nurilmala Mala , Nurhayati Tati , Roskananda Rieska
Published: September 2018

Abstrak
Limbah filet ikan patin terutama kepala dan tulang memiliki potensi sebagai bahan baku pembuatan
hidrolisat protein karena mengandung bioaktif peptida. Hidrolisat protein merupakan protein yang
dihidrolisis menjadi peptida melalui proses enzimatis atau kimiawi. Penelitian ini bertujuan menentukan
aktivitas pengikatan kalsium pada hidrolisat protein dari limbah filet ikan patin. Penelitian ini terdiri dari dua
tahap. Tahap pertama terdiri dari pembuatan hidrolisat protein secara enzimatis menggunakan konsentrasi
enzim papain yang berbeda. Hidrolisat protein tersebut dianalisis derajat hidrolisisnya menggunakan
metode SN-TCA sedangkan aktivitas pengikatan kalsium dengan menggunakan AAS. Tahap kedua yaitu
analisis uv scanning untuk melihat penyerapan maksimum hidrolisat protein dan analisis komposisi asam
amino untuk melihat komposisi asam amino yang terkandung dalam hidrolisat protein. Derajat hidrolisis
yang dihasilkan dari penelitian ini berbanding lurus dengan konsentrasi enzim yang digunakan. Aktivitas
pengikatan kalsium tertinggi oleh hidrolisat protein yaitu sebesar 122,73 mg L-1. Hidrolisat protein tersebut
memiliki derajat hidrolisis 43,13% dengan konsentrasi enzim 6% (v/v). Intensitas serapan pada hidrolisat
protein dengan penambahan kalsium lebih rendah apabila dibandingkan dengan intensitas absorpsi
hidrolisat protein, hal ini mengindikasikan adanya aktivitas pengikatan kalsium oleh hidrolisat protein.
Komposisi asam amino tertinggi pada hidrolisat protein limbah filet ikan patin yaitu asam glutamat.
KARAKTERISTIK FISIKOKIMIA KALSIUM DARI TULANG NILA (Oreochromis niloticus) DENGAN PERENDAMAN BELIMBING WULUH
Authors: Wijayanti Ima , Rianingsih Laras , Amalia Ulfah
Published: September 2018

Kandungan asam yang tinggi pada belimbing wuluh diduga dapat menjadi alternatif pengganti asam
pada proses ekstraksi kalsium. Penelitian ini bertujuan menentukan pengaruh konsentrasi dan lama
perendaman terhadap karakteristik kimia dan fisika kalsium dari tulang ikan nila. Penelitian menggunakan
rancangan faktorial dengan faktor konsentrasi blimbing wuluh (40%, 60% dan 80%) dan lama perendaman
(24 jam dan 48 jam). Parameter uji yang digunakan terdiri dari analisis kadar kalsium, ukuran partikel,
kadar air, protein, lemak, abu dan SEM. Interaksi konsentrasi dan lama perendaman berpengaruh nyata
terhadap kadar kalsium, ukuran partikel, rendemen, kadar abu namun tidak berpengaruh nyata pada kadar
air, protein dan lemak. Perlakuan terbaik dengan kadar kalsium yang memenuhi standar dengan ukuran
partikel yang relative kecil adalah konsentrasi 40% dengan lama perendaman 48 jam.
Fixed Broadband Penetration and Economic Growth
Authors: Purnama Yudi Purnama
Published: September 2018

This study explores causal relationships between fixed broadband penetration, gross capital accumulation, the degree of urbanisation, and economic growth, using panel data from 9 ASEAN member countries in 2003-2016. Employing multivariate models, we reveal bidirectional causality between fixed broadband penetration and economic growth, with a higher magnitude of effect from GDP per capita to broadband penetration. Furthermore, fixed broadband penetration has bidirectional causality to urbanisation, while a unidirectional link exists from fixed broadband penetration to gross capital accumulation.
RADIATION DIAGNOSIS OF RARE FORMS OF RESPIRATORY ORGAN SARCOIDOSIS
Authors: Speranskaya A. A. , Baranova O. P. , Vasilyeva M. A. , Amosov I. V.
Published: September 2018

Objective: to evaluate the clinical and radiological features of rare forms of sarcoidosis of the respiratory organs (SRO).

Material and methods. In 2006 to 2016, the Research Institute of Interstitial and Orphan Lung Diseases followed up 599 patients with sarcoidosis. 36 patients (6.0%) of them had atypical clinical and radiation manifestations that did not correspond to the traditional radiation pattern and the existing X-ray classification of SRO. Stages 2, 3, and 4 pulmonary sarcoidosis was diagnosed in 26, 7, and 3 patients, respectively. The patients’ mean age was 38.2±7.4 years (the female/male ratio was 26:10). All the patients underwent traditional X-ray studies (radiography in two projections), high-resolution computed tomography (CT), complex external respiratory function examination, and echocardiography.

Results. Analysis of the results of radiation examinations revealed the following rare forms of SRO: interstitial edematous, fibrous, and cavitary ones that had recognizable CT patterns. Each of these forms had clinical and functional features. In single cases, the CT pattern combined the features incompatible with the generally accepted classification (Stages 1 and 4 SRO); this was an offstage form. The features of the radiation pattern and clinical course required the differential diagnosis of these patients with more severe diseases (idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, lymphogenic carcinomatosis, pulmonary edema, diffuse connective tissue diseases, pneumoconiosis, mycobacteriosis, and exogenous allergic alveolitis) and morphological verification.

Conclusion. The accumulation of experience with clinical and radiological examination of patients with SRO revealed its rare forms that are difficult to diagnose and necessitate the development of new approaches to therapy policy.
CURRENT COMPUTER TECHNOLOGIES IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF TRACHEOMALACIA IN PATIENTS WITH CICATRICIAL TRACHEAL STENOSIS IN THE PERIOPERATIVE PERIOD
Authors: Koroleva I. M. , Mishchenko M. A.
Published: September 2018

Objective: to analyze current radiodiagnostic techniques in identifying tracheomalacia (TM) and estimating its severity and extent in patients with cicatricial tracheal stenosis (CTS) and to determine the important characteristics of TM according to follow-up multislice computed tomography (MSCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings.

Material and methods. The investigation included the results of examining 94 patients, 81 of whom were diagnosed with CTS. To analyze the efficiency of the studies, the patients were divided into three groups; a control group of patients was formed. The diagnosis of TM was verified by clinical examination, instrumental diagnosis, MSCT and MRI studies, and intraoperative revision. The patients’ postoperative features were taken into consideration. Diagnostic performance measures, such as sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy, were calculated. Static radiation techniques (MSCT and MRI) and follow-up procedures (fMSCT and fMRI) were compared.

Results. The follow-up procedures were proven to be twice as informative for the detection of the symptoms of TM as the endoscopic method that is considered the main method for the diagnosis of pathological tracheal changes. The diagnostic capabilities of MSCT, fMSCT, MRI, and fMRI were determined; criteria for identifying TM were formulated. The use of the follow-up procedures to identify clinically significant TM in patients with CTS could radically alter surgical tactic in 36.9% of cases.

Conclusion. The proposed algorithm for examination of patients with CTS, which includes follow-up radiation procedures to evaluate the functional state of the tracheal wall, makes it possible to determine an optimal treatment policy and to significantly reduce the risks of complications and disease recurrences.
X-RAY MORPHOLOGICAL SEMIOTICS OF NON-TUBERCULOUS MYCOBACTERIAL PULMONARY DISEASE
Authors: Amansakhedov R. B. , Lepekha L. N. , Dmitrieva L. I. , Andrievskaya I. Yu. , Sigaev A. T. , Makar’yants N. N. , Romanov V. V. , Ergeshov A. E.
Published: September 2018

Objective: to evaluate the X-ray radiological features of nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTMPD) versus morphological findings.

Material and methods. The investigation enrolled 37 patients, in whom the radiographic signs of dissemination were determined and various types of NTMPD were identified. The investigation was conducted on a Siemens Somatom Emotion 16 multislice computed tomography (MSCT) scanner using a high-resolution algorithm (Quick Time Virtual Reality). To clarify the activity of pathological changes in the thoracic organs, 16 (43.2%) patients underwent a radionuclide study with 99mTc-technetrile on a Nucline Spirit gamma camera in planar and single photon emission computed tomography modes.

The diagnosis was verified by sputum smear microscopy and clinical laboratory and bronchologic examinations: bronchoalveolar lavage in 11 (29.7%) patients, various types of bronchial biopsies in 17 (46.0%), morphological examinations, and videoassisted thoracoscopic surgery for pulmonary resection in 9 (24.3%).

Results. The dissemination foci in mycobacterial diseases were characterized by their location in the lung parenchyma with vascular and bronchial involvement and reactive changes in the pulmonary pleurae and intrathoracic lymph nodes (ITLN). In 92.7% of cases, the detected foci were predominantly centrilobular with endobronchial localization. Their contours were mixed with clear and fuzzy outlines in 98.7% of cases. In 70.3% of cases, the foci were asymmetrically localized mainly in the subpleural areas of the lung and 12.3% of cases were accompanied by reactive involvement of the visceral pleura.

CT study revealed a tree-in-bud sign in 96.7% of cases, frosted glass in 10.2%, and mosaic perfusion in 13.2%. A more than 10-mm increase in ITLN was found in 11.7% of cases.

In a number of cases, it was difficult to speak about the activity of the pathological process in the lung and ITLN, as shown by MSCT. In this case, a lung radionuclide study with 99mTc-technetrile was carried out in the planar mode. The degree of tracer accumulation, localization, and extent were analyzed in the planar mode.

Conclusion. Thus, the CT typical signs of NTMPD are the asymmetric location of its foci with an endobronchial extension, peribronchovascular localization of foci; the presence of a CT tree-in-bud sign; and the slight involvement of the pulmonary pleurae in the process. 99mTs-technetril radionuclide study has established that the most active inflammatory process is located in the lung and the tracer accumulates in the pathologically altered lymph nodes.
Controle da resistência à compressão do concreto: análise comparativa entre os procedimentos propostos pela ABNT, ACI e EN. Estudo de Caso
Authors: Helene Paulo , Boni Ricardo , Britez Carlos
Published: September 2018

Neste artigo estão apresentados os resultados obtidos no controle de resistência à compressão do concreto realizado conforme normalização brasileira, bem como análises comparativas com os controles propostos pelo ACI 318-14 e EN 206. No Brasil, atualmente, o controle da resistência à compressão do concreto é realizado conforme a ABNT NBR 12655:2015. Entretanto, quando este controle é realizado à luz de outras normas, os resultados obtidos não coincidem, devido ao fato dos procedimentos de amostragem e critérios de aceitação serem distintos. Este artigo apresenta um estudo de caso real, onde foi empregado um traço de concreto fck=40MPa, autoadensável, produzido durante 2 anos e 9 meses e aplicado na estrutura de um empreendimento localizado na cidade de São Paulo.
Un enfoque conceptual holístico para la vida de servicio del concreto: división en diferentes etapas de tiempo
Authors: Castro-Borges Pedro , Helene Paulo
Published: September 2018

El objetivo de este documento es analizar y discutir un enfoque conceptual que considera el carácter holístico de la vida de servicio concreta, pero lo divide en siete etapas de tiempo que se pueden comparar, para fines de comprensión, con las de un ser humano. Los conceptos existentes sobre la vida útil pueden ser incompletos con respecto a aquellos que deben considerar toda la vida de una estructura concreta. Una de las razones para esto es la falta de certeza de las predicciones de la vida útil que se basan en modelos que consideran una combinación de etapas de tiempo no claramente definidas. La vida de una estructura tiene muchas similitudes con la de un ser humano. De hecho, no es coincidencia que la ingeniería haya adoptado algunos términos de las ciencias médicas como "patología" para referirse a estructuras con problemas de "salud". El documento analiza la superposición de las diferentes etapas de tiempo, así como las razones por las que los modelos de predicción pueden fallar.
The Effect of Vitamin D Supplements on Clinical and Para-Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: Protocol for a Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Ghajarzadeh Mahsa , Keshtkar Abbas Ali , Azimi Amirreza , Sahraian Mohammad Ali , Mohammadifar Mehdi , Ramagopalan Sreeram V
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease, which has a wide range of effects on patients. There are controversies regarding the role of vitamin D in clinical and laboratory improvements in MS patients.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this systematic review protocol is to evaluate the efficacy of vitamin D supplements on relapse rate, gadolinium-enhancing lesions of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and cytokine profiles.

METHODS

We will search PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Ovid, ProQuest, American College of Physicians Journal Club database, Health Technology Assessment Database (The Cochrane Collaboration), and National Health System Economic Evaluation Database (The Cochrane Collaboration) and gray literature including reference of included studies and conference abstracts. Clinical trials reporting the effect of any doses of vitamin D on relapse rate, gadolinium-enhancing lesions of MRI, and cytokine profiles will be included. In total, 2 independent researchers will independently assess the studies, extract data, and evaluate the quality of primary studies.

RESULTS

This systematic review was started in September 2017 and the process is continuing. The included articles are evaluated and researchers are going to extract the data.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this will be the first comprehensive systematic review aiming to assess the effect of vitamin D supplements on clinical and para-clinical outcomes in patients with multiple sclerosis.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPOR

PRR1-10.2196/12045