bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Abdominal Adiposity with Cardiovascular Mortality in Incident Hemodialysis
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jessica , Sozio Stephen M. , Jaar Bernard G. , McAdams-DeMarco Mara A. , Estrella Michelle M. , Tereshchenko Larisa G. , Monroy-Trujillo Jose M. , Parekh Rulan S.
Published: November 2018

Background: The risk of cardiovascular mortality is high among adults with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis. Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), a metric of abdominal adiposity, is a predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality in the general population; however, no studies have examined the association with CVD mortality, particularly sudden cardiac death (SCD), in incident hemodialysis. Methods: Among 379 participants incident (< 6 months) to hemodialysis enrolled in the Predictors of Arrhythmic and Cardiovascular Risk in ESRD study, we evaluated associations between WHR and risk of CVD mortality, SCD, and non-CVD mortality in Cox proportional hazards regression models. Results: At study enrollment, mean age was 55 years with 41% females, 73% African Americans, and 57% diabetics. Mean body mass index was 29.3 kg/m2, and mean WHR was 0.95. During a median follow-up time of 2.5 years, there were 35 CVD deaths, 15 SCDs, and 48 non-CVD deaths. Every 0.1 increase in WHR was associated with higher risk (hazard ratio [95% CI]) of CVD mortality (1.75 [1.06–2.86]) and SCD (2.45 [1.20–5.02]), but not non-CVD mortality (0.93 [0.59–1.45]), independently of demographics, body mass index, comorbidities, inflammation, and traditional CVD risk factors. Conclusions: WHR is significantly associated with CVD mortality including SCD, independently of other CVD risk factors in incident hemodialysis. This simple, easily obtained bedside metric may be useful in dialysis patients for CVD risk stratification.
Stent-Assisted Angioplasty of Spontaneous Bilateral Extracranial Vertebral Dissections under Intravascular Ultrasound Guidance
Authors: Seung Won-Bae
Published: November 2018

The authors here report a case of stent-assisted angioplasty under intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) guidance for the treatment of spontaneous bilateral extracranial vertebral artery (VA) dissection. A 47-year-old woman presented with spontaneous severe posterior neck pain. Examinations revealed bilateral extracranial VA dissection, which was thought to be the reason for her symptom. However, since the pain was gradually worsening even after sufficient medical treatment, she underwent stent angioplasty under IVUS guidance, following which her symptoms improved. We propose that stent placement under IVUS guidance is a safe and feasible method for treating extracranial VA dissections. Since the intravascular environment is seen in real time with IVUS, this technique is useful for confirming a true lumen and evaluating appropriate stent apposition. More clinical experience with this technique is required and mandatory, and devices with smaller diameters with improved trackability are essential for further introduction of IVUS into the field of endovascular neurosurgery.
Estudo de cortadoras a laser open source e seus problemas mais comuns
Authors: Guethi Breno Lear Martins
Published: November 2018

O advento de metodologias, tal qual a do Design Thinking, que incentivam a prototipagem rápida como forma de verificação e validação de ideias e produtos levou à um aumento da procura por ferramentas que permitiam essas práticas - Impressora 3D, placa Arduíno e Protoboard, Máquina de Corte à Laser. Muitos desses mecanismos e softwares têm vertentes centradas no open source - modelo que deixa o programa e os métodos de montagem abertos a todos os interessados. São muito utilizados em laboratórios de prototipagem rápida, de ensino e em FabLab’s. Para aumentar ainda mais a acessibilidade da cortadora à laser, esse trabalho tem por objetivo estudar os conceitos, softwares e hardwares acerca dessa máquina pautando-se em três modelos existentes e abertos, apresentar sugestões acerca de sua montagem e soluções de problemas recorrentes.
Análise de Sistemas de Serviços de Saúde: Um Estudo Comparativo
Authors: Rodrigues Diego Augusto Vieira , Bisinotto Gustavo Alencar
Published: November 2018

O atual sistema de saúde brasileiro é resultado de um processo de evolução ao longo dos anos que, em especial, nas últimas décadas, contou com investimentos substanciais para a melhoria dos serviços prestados, contudo, diversos problemas, como demora em marcações de procedimentos e superlotação, ainda são observados. Nesse contexto, considerando-se os sistemas de saúde como sistemas a eventos discretos, pode-se explorar técnicas de modelagem e de análise desenvolvidas para esta classe de sistemas. Assim, neste trabalho, são consideradas duas abordagens distintas, para modelagem e análise de sistemas de saúde, uma baseada em Rede de Petri e outra em simulação discreta com pacotes (softwares) de simulação.
Mecatrone, volume 2
Authors: Suzuki Bruna Sayuri de Souza
Published: November 2018

Editorial do volume 2, número 1, 2017, da revista Mecatrone.
Álgebra Linear Numérica: Aplicações em Métodos Computacionais e sua Importância para a Engenharia
Authors: Pereira José Rhuan De Souza , Costa Renato Brito
Published: November 2018

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo validar a importância da álgebra linear em métodos computacionais e cursos de engenharia, mostrando não só aspectos teóricos, como também aplicações práticas da disciplina. Apesar dos conceitos desta área matemática serem amplamente difundidos em seu campo teórico, muitas vezes sua aplicabilidade passa despercebida, principalmente em semestres iniciais dos cursos de engenharia, contribuindo assim, para uma difícil visualização de sua usabilidade. Desta forma, surge a necessidade de demonstrar como os conceitos se aplicam na resolução de problemas enfrentados pelos engenheiros. De fato, estas aplicações podem ser vistas não só na computação, como também em outras engenharias. Sendo assim, é fundamental a abordagem de alguns destes usos, bem como seus respectivos métodos de execução.
Five new species of Syzygium (Myrtaceae) from Indochina and Thailand
Authors: TAGANE SHUICHIRO , DANG VAN-SON , SOULADETH PHETLASY , NAGAMASU HIDETOSHI , TOYAMA HIRONORI , NAIKI AKIYO , FUSE KENGO , TRAN HOP , YANG CENG-JUI , PRAJAKSOOD AMORNRAT , YAHARA TETSUKAZU
Published: November 2018

Five new species of Syzygium (Myrtaceae), S. honbaense, S. phamhoangii and S. yersinii from Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam, S. phoukhaokhouayense from Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area, Vientiane Province, Laos, and S. scabrum from Bung Khla, Phu Wua Wildlife Sanctuary, Buengkan Province, Thailand, are described and illustrated. Photographs, vernacular names and preliminary conservation assessments are provided for them.
Henricia pumila sp. nov.: A brooding seastar (Asteroidea) from the coastal northeastern Pacific
Authors: EERNISSE DOUGLAS J. , STRATHMANN MEGUMI F. , STRATHMANN RICHARD R.
Published: November 2018

A small species of the seastar genus Henricia Gray, 1840 occurs along the cool temperate Pacific coast of North America from near Sitka, Alaska to just south of Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico. Its small adult size, mottled aboral colors, and benthic external brooding reproductive mode have long been noted, but it has never been formally separated from the larger, free-spawning Henricia leviuscula (Stimpson, 1857), with which it has been confused. Here we amplify the description of H. leviuscula, based on examination of the holotype and new specimens, and restrict it to only one of several similar species that co-occur in Puget Sound and vicinity. We also describe the small mottled brooder as Henricia pumila sp. nov., characterize its distribution, and contrast its morphology with H. leviuscula based on the arrangement of marginal plates and the microanatomy of aboral spines.
Notes on Oriental and Australasian Manotinae (Diptera, Mycetophilidae), with the description of thirteen new species
Authors: HIPPA HEIKKI , ŠEVČÍK JAN
Published: November 2018

The following new species are described: Manota acehensis (Sumatra), M. anceps (Sumatra), M. bruneiensis (Borneo), M. capillata (Sumatra), M. dolichothrix (Borneo), M. hexacantha (Borneo), M. hyboloma (Borneo), M. perangulata (Borneo), M. radula (Borneo), M. sinepollex (Sumatra), M. stricta (Sumatra), M. subforceps (Sumatra) and Eumanota vilkamaai (New Guinea). New records of the following species are given: Manota bifida Hippa & Papp (Borneo), M. clausa Hippa (Borneo), M. curvata Hippa (Sumatra), M. ferrata Hippa (Borneo), M. forceps Hippa & Papp (Thailand), M. horrida Hippa (Borneo), M. pectinata Hippa (Borneo, Sulawesi), M. pappi Hippa (Borneo), M. perpusilla Hippa (Sumatra), M. simplex Hippa (Borneo), M. ulu Hippa (Sumatra), Eumanota humeralis Edwards (Borneo), E. malukuensis Søli (Seram), E. suthepensis Søli (Thailand) and Promanota malaisei Tuomikoski (Thailand).
The PSID in Research and Policy
Authors: Smeeding Timothy M.
Published: November 2018

The PSID has remained a valuable vehicle for evidence-based policy research for decades and should remain so for many more. In this short review, I cover major policy-related strengths from PSID research in the areas of event history analysis; mobility and volatility; cross national comparisons; health and health insurance; mobility into and out of poverty; the effects of parental income on children; and the use of the child development sample to broaden the PSID policy focus in new and interesting ways. I also include the emerging study of longer term intergenerational patterns of mobility and transfer, including across three generations. Finally, I take up the question of how PSID data and methods could be further improved to make the survey more valuable to public policy, focusing on administrative data linkages.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress contributes to the pathogenesis of stress urinary incontinence in postmenopausal women
Authors: Zhou Yong , Liu Xiaoxia , Li Wenjuan , Sun Xiaoyan , Xie Zhenwei
Published: November 2018

Objective

To investigate the relationship between endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and the pathogenesis of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in postmenopausal women.

Methods

Anterior vaginal wall tissue was collected from postmenopausal women with SUI and control subjects. Western blotting was performed for glucose-regulated protein (GRP78), inositol-requiring enzyme 1(IRE1), protein kinase-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6), C/EBP-homologous protein (CHOP), and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2). Additionally, mRNA expression levels of PERK, activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), and CHOP were examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

GRP78 protein and mRNA expression levels were significantly lower in women with SUI, compared with control subjects. PERK and p-PERK expression levels were higher in women with SUI than in control subjects. However, no differences in IRE1 or ATF6 expression levels were observed in either group. Notably, higher CHOP and lower Bcl-2 protein expression levels were detected in women with SUI, compared with control subjects. Furthermore, PERK, ATF4, and CHOP mRNA expression levels were significantly higher in women with SUI than in control subjects.

Conclusions

Alterations of ERS markers in SUI suggest that ERS may be involved in the development of SUI in postmenopausal women.
Occupational performance in the basic and instrumental daily activities of persons with low vision who received rehabilitation services
Authors: Duquette Josée , Loiselle Jocelyn , Fréchette Claire , Déry Lise , Senécal Marie-Josée
Published: November 2018

Introduction

The objective was to describe the occupational performance in basic and instrumental daily activities of persons living in the community who have received comprehensive interdisciplinary low vision rehabilitation services.

Method

The Mesure de l'impact de la déficience visuelle dans les activités quotidiennes (a measure of the impact of visual impairment in daily activities) was administered at home to 102 individuals who participated in a comprehensive low vision rehabilitation program. Performance in 16 near-vision activities was measured with the person's aids and strategies; nine more global tasks were questionnaire-based. Handicap scores were obtained by multiplying performance × importance ratings.

Results

Average performance was satisfactory or very satisfactory for 21/25 items, even if 92% of the participants had a moderate or severe visual impairment. A severe or total handicap was present in at least one activity for 79% of the subjects. The most handicapping activities required visual searches of finely printed information on a complex or visually crowded document, or shopping and mobility.

Conclusion

People with low vision who took part in a comprehensive rehabilitation program generally face no or slight handicap situations in their basic and instrumental daily activities. However, major handicap situations may remain in some important activities.
A high-order control volume finite element method for thermoelastic analysis of functionally graded solids with mixed grids
Authors: Liu Qi , Yu Yan , Ming Pingjian
Published: November 2018

In this article, a new two-dimensional control volume finite element method has been developed for thermoelastic analysis in functionally graded materials. A nine-node quadrilateral element and a six-node triangular element are employed to deal with the mixed-grid problem. The unknown variables and material properties are defined at the node. The high-order shape functions of six-node triangular and nine-node quadrilateral element are employed to obtain the unknown variables and their derivatives. In addition, the material properties in functionally graded structure are also modeled by applying the high-order shape functions. The capabilities of the presented method to heat conduction problem, elastic problem, and thermoelastic problem have been validated. First, the defined location of material properties is found to be important for the accuracy of the numerical results. Second, the presented method is proven to be efficient and reliable for the elastic analysis in multi-phase materials. Third, the presented method is capable of high-order mixed grids. The memory and computational costs of the presented method are also compared with other numerical methods.
Warts and all: Fingolimod and unusual HPV-associated lesions
Authors: Triplett James , Kermode Allan G , Corbett Alastair , Reddel Stephen W
Published: November 2018

Background:

Fingolimod is used to reduce relapse rates in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS). It is a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) analogue having antagonistic effects on S1P receptors. Its immunosuppressive effect is due to reduced circulating lymphocyte numbers, and it may also be associated with impaired intrinsic cancer surveillance. Fingolimod side effects include increased rates and severity of viral infections particularly varicella zoster.

Methods:

We present five cases of chronic and treatment refractory warts associated with fingolimod therapy.

Results:

Each of the five cases presenting with chronic warts while receiving fingolimod therapy had prolonged periods of lymphopenia and improvements were seen following dose reduction or cessation of fingolimod.

Conclusion:

Cutaneous warts are associated with human papilloma virus (HPV) infection, suggesting an increased risk of other HPV-driven conditions such as cervical cancer following fingolimod administration. HPV viruses are responsible for approximately 90% of cervical cancers as well as a significant portion of anogenital cancers and have a high prevalence in sexually active adults. Given the reduced immune response to viral infections and potential impaired cancer surveillance in those receiving fingolimod, HPV vaccination and frequent assessment for the development of HPV-associated malignancies are recommended.
Evaluation influence: Method and societal phenomenon
Authors: Høydal Øyunn Syrstad
Published: November 2018

Questions concerning influence are essential in the field of evaluation. This article argues for a dual perspective in this discussion. Theories of influence are combined with the idea of The Evaluation Society, and together these create a broad perspective on the use of evaluations and their possible impact. From this dual perspective, evaluation is recognized both as a method for planning and development and as an independent societal phenomenon. Norwegian participation in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) is used to illustrate the essence of this dual perspective and how it can yield a more complete understanding of the complexity of evaluation impact.
Differences in Maternal Risk Factors Among Undocumented Latinas in Nebraska by Country of Origin
Authors: Held Mary L. , Anderson Kelly , Kennedy Daniel , Vernon Elizabeth , Wilkins Jennifer , Lindley Lisa C.
Published: November 2018

Objective:

This study compared maternal risk factors by country of origin for 4,188 Mexican and Guatemalan unauthorized immigrants.

Method:

Data were drawn from 2007 to 2011 public birth certificate records of unauthorized immigrant mothers residing in Nebraska at the time of delivery. The study sample included 4,188 women ages 18 years or older and originating from either Mexico or Guatemala. Risk factors, including age risk, preexisting health risks, pregnancy health risks, and prior pregnancy risks, were examined by country of origin. Stata 11.0 was used to compute descriptive statistics and conduct χ2 test for binary variables and Student t test for continuous variables.

Results:

Analyses found that Mexican and Guatemalan participants have distinct maternal risk factors. Mexican participants were older and at greater risk of obesity and excessive weight gain during pregnancy, while Guatemalan participants were more likely to receive inadequate prenatal care.

Conclusion:

Findings suggest that both Mexican and Guatemalan immigrants encounter maternal risk factors that could threaten not only their own health but that of their infants as well. Health and social service providers can tailor education and outreach efforts that are specific to Latina subgroups by origin. Furthermore, targeted strategies to delivering prenatal care to unauthorized immigrants are essential for the well-being of mothers and newborns.
Time-dependent behavior of subcritical crack growth for rock plate: Experimental and numerical study
Authors: Yuan Haiping , Wang Feng , Liu Yan , Bian Hanbing , Chen Wen , Wang Yixian
Published: November 2018

Time-dependent behavior of subcritical crack growth is one of the main characteristics in rocks. The double-torsion test is commonly used to study the slow crack growth behavior of brittle and quasi-brittle materials. However, double-torsion specimen is difficult to processing, the process of the laboratory test is irreversible, and the current numerical simulation is difficult to consider the time-dependent behavior, and so on. In view of all above problems, an idealized particle model was built, and the crack was identified in this article, based on the theory of particle flow. The numerical model was built using Particle Flow Code in 3 Dimensions, and the macromechanical and micromechanical parameters of the model were calibrated. The process of the macroscopic crack propagation and its evolution were analyzed. The intrinsic relations with the load, the displacement, and the time were established. The results show that the Particle Flow Code in 3 Dimensions can reproduce the time-dependent behavior of subcritical crack growth in double-torsion test. And, the peak and the law of the curves are in good agreement with the laboratory test results. Therefore, the Particle Flow Code in 3 Dimensions numerical simulation can be used as a new effective method to reveal the slow crack growth behavior, to get the relevant parameters such as V, KI, and KIC, and to build the relationship between V and KI. The results of this article will have some reference value for the simulation and application of double-torsion test.
Perspectives of caregivers and volunteers on Stepping Stones for people with dementia
Authors: Han Areum , Brown Diane
Published: November 2018

Rationale:

Current knowledge in experiences and potential benefits of group-based activity programmes on people with dementia and their caregivers is inconsistent, depending on the quality of interventions. Lacking standardisation in the programme’s content and structure, therefore, requires research in a structured group-based activity programme with more details.

Objectives

This study explored perspectives of spouses of people with dementia and older volunteers about Stepping Stones, involving a theme-based activity group and a support group. Methodology: Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyse individual interview data with 12 people.

Results

Findings suggest that (1) Stepping Stones promotes participation of people with dementia in a happy, comfortable and accepting environment; (2) Stepping Stones fulfils a deep need of family caregivers; (3) Stepping Stones is well organised with a purpose and expertise and (4) The partnership between the community and the university makes the programme unique.

Conclusion

Programmes like Stepping Stones can be beneficial by promoting participation of people with dementia and fulfilling a need of caregivers. These findings contribute to evidence of group-based activity programmes, in which activities were well planned by a faculty and students in occupational therapy.
Expression of mitochondrial dysfunction-related genes and pathways in paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy in breast cancer survivors
Authors: Kober Kord M , Olshen Adam , Conley Yvettte P , Schumacher Mark , Topp Kimberly , Smoot Betty , Mazor Melissa , Chesney Margaret , Hammer Marilyn , Paul Steven M , Levine Jon D , Miaskowski Christine
Published: November 2018

Background

Paclitaxel is one of the most commonly used drugs to treat breast cancer. Its major dose-limiting toxicity is paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN). PIPN persists into survivorship and has a negative impact on patient’s mood, functional status, and quality of life. No interventions are available to treat PIPN. A critical barrier to the development of efficacious interventions is the lack of understanding of the mechanisms that underlie PIPN. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been evaluated in preclinical studies as a hypothesized mechanism for PIPN, but clinical data to support this hypothesis are limited. The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate for differential gene expression and perturbed pathways between breast cancer survivors with and without PIPN.

Methods

Gene expression in peripheral blood was assayed using RNA-seq. Differentially expressed genes (DEG) and pathways associated with mitochondrial dysfunction were identified between survivors who received paclitaxel and did (n = 25) and did not (n = 25) develop PIPN.

Results

Breast cancer survivors with PIPN were significantly older; more likely to be unemployed; reported lower alcohol use; had a higher body mass index and poorer functional status; and had a higher number of lower extremity sites with loss of light touch, cold, and pain sensations and higher vibration thresholds. No between-group differences were found in the cumulative dose of paclitaxel received or in the percentage of patients who had a dose reduction or delay due to PIPN. Five DEGs and nine perturbed pathways were associated with mitochondrial dysfunction related to oxidative stress, iron homeostasis, mitochondrial fission, apoptosis, and autophagy.

Conclusions

This study is the first to provide molecular evidence that a number of mitochondrial dysfunction mechanisms identified in preclinical models of various types of neuropathic pain including chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy are found in breast cancer survivors with persistent PIPN and suggest genes for validation and as potential therapeutic targets.
Risk factors for complications after volar plate fixation of distal radial fractures
Authors: Sirniö Kai , Flinkkilä Tapio , Vähäkuopus Marko , Hurskainen Antti , Ohtonen Pasi , Leppilahti Juhana
Published: November 2018

This study assessed risk factors for complications after volar plate fixation of distal radial fractures. An assessment of electronic patient records from 2008 to 2016 identified 867 patients with a total of 881 distal radial fractures who underwent volar plating in our hospital. A total of 132 complications after volar plate fixation of distal radial fractures were observed (complication rate 15%). Surgery performed by a low-volume surgeon and patient age less than 40 years were the most important risk factors for plate-related complications. In logistic regression analysis, operation performed by a low-volume surgeon and patient age less than 40 years were independent predictors of plate-related complications. Patient age less than 40 years and low-volume surgeon were also found to be independent risk factors for plate-related secondary operations. Surgical delay had no effect on the complication rate.

Level of evidence: IV
Extended spectrum beta-lactamase mediated resistance in carriage and clinical gram-negative ESKAPE bacteria: a comparative study between a district and tertiary hospital in South Africa
Authors: Founou Raspail Carrel , Founou Luria Leslie , Essack Sabiha Yusuf
Published: November 2018

Background

Gram-negative ESKAPE bacteria are increasingly implicated in several difficult-to-treat infections in developed and developing countries. They are listed by the World Health Organization as resistant bacteria of critical priority in research.

Objectives

To determine the risk factors, prevalence, phenotypic profiles, genetic diversity and clonal relatedness of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing multi-drug resistant (MDR) Gram-negative ESKAPE bacteria in the faecal carriage and clinical samples from patients in an urban, tertiary and a rural, district hospital in uMgungundlovu District, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Methods

This study took place in a district and tertiary hospital during a two-months period from May to June 2017 in uMgungundlovu district, South Africa. Rectal swabs collected from hospitalized patients, at admission, after 48 h and at discharge (whenever possible) formed the carriage sample while clinical isolates routinely processed in the microbiological laboratory during the sampling period were also collected and formed the clinical sample. Gram-negative ESKAPE bacteria were screened for ESBL production on selective MacConkey agar and confirmed using ROSCO kits. Minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined, and real-time and multiplex polymerase chain reaction were used to ascertain the presence of blaCTX-M group-1-2-9, blaCTX-M group 8/25, blaSHV, blaTEM, blaOXA-1-like, blaKPC, blaVIM, blaIMP, blaGES and AmpC genes. Genomic fingerprinting was also performed using ERIC-PCR. Risk factors for ESBL-mediating MDR Gram-negative ESKAPE colonization were ascertained by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

Overall prevalence of carriage of ESBL-mediating MDR Gram-negative ESKAPE was 37.21% (16/43), 42.31% (11/26) and 57.14% (4/7) at admission, after 48 h and at discharge respectively. The prevalence of ESBL-mediating MDR Gram-negative ESKAPE bacteria in faecal carriage (46%) was higher than clinical samples (28%). Colonization was mainly associated with the referral from district to tertiary hospital with high statistical significance (OR: 14.40, 95% CI 0.98–210.84). blaCTX-M-group-9, blaCTX-M-group-1 and blaSHV were the main resistance genes identified. Several patients carried more than two different isolates. A Klebsiella pneumoniae (K1) clone was circulating within wards and between hospitals.

Conclusion

The study highlights the high prevalence of ESBL-mediating MDR Gram-negative ESKAPE bacteria in carriage and clinical samples among hospitalized patients in uMgungundlovu, South Africa. The wide dissemination of these resistant ESKAPE bacteria in hospitals necessitates improvements in routine screening and reinforcement of infection, prevention and control measures.
Potential value of the current mental health monitoring of children in state care in England
Authors: Cocker Christine , Minnis Helen , Sweeting Helen
Published: November 2018

Background

Routine screening to identify mental health problems in English looked-after children has been conducted since 2009 using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ).

Aims

To investigate the degree to which data collection achieves screening aims (identifying scale of problem, having an impact on mental health) and the potential analytic value of the data set.

Method

Department for Education data (2009–2017) were used to examine: aggregate, population-level trends in SDQ scores in 4/5- to 16/17-year-olds; representativeness of the SDQ sample; attrition in this sample.

Results

Mean SDQ scores (around 50% ‘abnormal’ or ‘borderline’) were stable over 9 years. Levels of missing data were high (25–30%), as was attrition (28% retained for 4 years). Cross-sectional SDQ samples were not representative and longitudinal samples were biased.

Conclusions

Mental health screening appears justified and the data set has research potential, but the English screening programme falls short because of missing data and inadequate referral routes for those with difficulties.

Declaration of interest

None.
Perioperative Hypertensive Urgency After Methylene Blue in a Patient With Undiagnosed Pheochromocytoma: A Case Report
Authors: Shukla Shikha , Zhu Richard , Rubin Philip , Deshpande Ranjit
Published: November 2018

We report the perioperative course of a 75-year-old woman undergoing robotic-assisted laparoscopic hysterectomy and tumor debulking. The patient developed severe, persistent hypertension after intraoperative methylene blue administration requiring a Surgical Intensive Care Unit admission with further investigative evaluation revealing a previously undiagnosed pheochromocytoma. Our discussion focuses on the differential diagnoses for her perioperative hypertension. We evaluate whether methylene blue triggered a pheochromocytoma crisis in our patient and emphasize the caution and critical thinking we all should demonstrate while providing anesthetic care.
Methods of teaching mathematics in primary school
Authors: Истомина-Кастровская Наталия , Istomina-Kastrovskaya Nataliya , Иванова Ирина , Ivanova Irina , Редько Зоя , Red'ko Zoya , Смолеусова Татьяна , Smoleusova Tat'yana , Тихонова Наталья , Tihonova Natal'ya
Published: November 2018

The purpose of the textbook-to form a future teacher methodological knowledge, skills and experience of creative activity, to develop methodical thinking of students, the ability to apply mathematical, pedagogical, psychological and methodological knowledge for the organization of primary school students in the learning of mathematics. Addition to the textbook is the manual " Methods of teaching mathematics in primary school. Practicum.» It offers methodical tasks, tasks for independent work of students, various situations arising in the practice of teaching mathematics to younger students, summaries of lessons, the discussion of which helps students to prepare for teaching practice and methodological activities in modern primary school.
Meets the requirements of the Federal state educational standards of higher education of the last generation.
For students of higher educational institutions studying in the direction of " Pedagogical education "(qualification" bachelor", profile"beginning&1 education"). It will also be useful for primary school teachers, methodologists of educational development institutes (training and retraining of teaching staff), undergraduates and graduate students, teachers of teacher training colleges and universities.
LIVRO DIDÁTICO NOVAS PALAVRAS: UMA ANÁLISE DAS CONCEPÇÕES DE APRENDIZAGEM
Authors: Bochett Amanda Canterle , Freitas Jéssica Cantele de , Brum Maísa Helena
Published: November 2018

Diversas concepções de ensino e aprendizagem configuram o contexto público escolar brasileiro. Historicamente, muitos são os estudos sobre as teorias de aprendizagem, dos quais destacamos a teoria behaviorista, a cognitivista e a sociocultural. Com isso, busca-se identificar que concepções de aprendizagem subsidiam as atividades do livro didático “Novas Palavras”.  Para tal, foram selecionados três capítulos do livro. Cada capítulo está organizado em três seções: Literatura Brasileira, Gramática e Redação e Leitura. Para a análise foram selecionados os primeiros capítulos de cada seção.  O procedimento consistiu no levantamento de termos relacionados às concepções de aprendizagem desde a abertura do capítulo até as atividades. Os resultados indicam a predominância de atividades cognitivistas (39 ocorrências) nos três capítulos analisados. Em seguida, encontram-se as ocorrências de atividades socioculturais (8 atividades), que demonstram, principalmente na parte de redação e leitura, uma preocupação com a reflexão na produção dos textos propostos.
WEBQUEST E A CONSTRUÇÃO DE LEITORES-AUTORES NA ERA DIGITAL
Authors: Santos Denise Salim , Zanoni Rafaela Capitanio
Published: November 2018

A WebQuest, tecnologia educacional criada por Bernie Dodge em 1995, pode estimular a aquisição de letramentos digitais durante a formação básica, promovendo o uso da leitura e da escrita no ciberespaço e atuando na construção de cidadãos críticos multiletrados que consigam se posicionar, de modo consciente e construtivo, em diversas esferas. Segundo seu criador, essa metodologia é vantajosa, por ser acessível e sem custos aos docentes e à escola, e pode transformar o ambiente de ensino tradicional em um contexto mais dinâmico e estimulante ao aprendizado. Sendo assim, este estudo tem por objetivo verificar a aplicabilidade dessa ferramenta no ensino de Língua Portuguesa. Concluímos, então, que é preciso rever como as Novas Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação (NTICs) são inseridas em sala de aula, pois se elas não conseguirem fazer com que o aluno transforme a informação em conhecimento aplicado não estarão cumprindo adequadamente a sua função educacional.
DIMENSÕES PRAGMÁTICAS DA VARIEDADE ANGOLANA DO PORTUGUÊS
Authors: Osório Paulo , Ferreira Kimavuidi
Published: November 2018

O presente texto pretende fazer uma abordagem pragmático-semântica do morfema gramatical só na Variedade Angolana do Português. A razão subjacente ao estudo do tema deve-se ao fato de o referido morfema assumir, naquela variedade africana do português, valores funcionais muito distintos dos que a gramática tradicional lhe atribui, como, por exemplo, o de fórmula de cortesia e de expressão intensificadora, fruto do contato entre a língua portuguesa e as línguas africanas faladas em Angola.
Effect sizes for relationships between variables
Authors: Campbell Malcolm
Published: November 2018

A previous article in this series explained why effect sizes are important and described effect sizes for differences between groups. This article will now cover commonly used effect sizes for relationships between variables
Audit of the patient-carried antenatal card, South Africa
Authors: Ibe-Dladla Nonjabulo Sandra , Adam Yasmin
Published: November 2018

Background:

In South Africa, an antenatal care card is carried by all women to appointments. This cards allows health professionals to document medical and obstetric characteristics so that important medical information can be transferred.

Aims:

To audit completeness and management of the antenatal care cards against maternity guidelines.

Methods:

A retrospective study in which 300 cards were audited in September 2015. Information audited included clinical factors, education, ultrasound, results, referral, and treatment. A composite assessment with a score of between 0 and 100% of certain aspects was made.

Findings:

No cards were complete. Birthweight was often recorded as ‘big or ‘average’, rather than the exact weight. ‘Planned’ pregnancy was noted in 1 card, and obstetric history was complete in 60.5% cases. Overall, 14 (8.9%) of the 157 ultrasounds were in the first trimester. Education in pregnancy was poorly documented. Clinical examination was recorded in 95% of cards.

Conclusions:

The card was found to be incomplete in ways that may affect maternal and fetal outcomes
Family planning needs of mountain communities in western Uganda
Authors: Muhindo Richard , Green Wendy M , Jong Soson
Published: November 2018

Background:

Mountain settings are characterised by limited access to reproductive, maternal and child health services. The scope of health research in these communities limits understanding of contextual needs that are critical in the implementation of effective health programmes.

Aims:

To establish the family planning needs among couples residing on the slopes of the Rwenzori Mountains in Kasese District, western Uganda.

Methods:

A cross-sectional, interviewer-administered questionnaire surveyed 400 couples in the mountainous sub-counties of Kilembe and Mahango between June and July 2015. Simple descriptive statistics were used to describe participants' family planning needs.

Findings:

The majority of the participants (66%) were female. On average every couple had 5 children and 35.5% wanted no additional children. While all participants knew of at least one method of contraception, 32.5% did not know where to obtain family planning services. Use of contraception was 16.3%. Only 2 in 10 individuals who reported wanting no additional children reported using any method.

Conclusions:

There is low contraceptive use and a high unmet need for family planning among couples residing on the slopes of Rwenzori Mountain in Kasese district. Just over one-third of participants were unaware of where to obtain family planning services. These findings have important implications for effective family planning programmes for mountain residents with low levels of education.
Fear of birth in Kenya and the UK: Differences and similarities
Authors: Nendela Anne , Richens Yana , Wakasiaka Sabina , Omoni Grace
Published: November 2018

Giving birth is considered a normal event in a woman's life and one embedded in all cultures. It is generally accepted, regardless of culture or country of residence, that almost all women have some degree of anxiety during pregnancy. Reasons for anxiety may change during the pregnancy, for example, during the first trimester this may be specifically related to the ongoing pregnancy and miscarriage. During the second trimester this might be replaced by thoughts on fetal abnormality, and finally in the third trimester, anxiety regarding labour and pain. For some women, anxiety surrounding the pregnancy and birth can spiral into what has become known as fear of birth. The reasons for fear of birth are multi-factorial, encompassing psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions. Therefore, it is conceivable that birth in different cultures and countries may result in different experiences for women. This short discussion paper observes fear of birth in women from England and Kenya, asking the question: Are the differences that different after all?
International research roundup
Authors: Newman Lauren
Published: November 2018

In this section, a range of brief synopses of recently published articles from around the world that may be of interest to midwives is presented. The aim of this roundup is to provide an overview, rather than a detailed summary, of the research papers selected. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
Does a more dynamic method of partial weight-bearing instruction translate to improved protocols?
Authors: Graham Claire , Jeffrey Sarah , Hellawell Michael
Published: November 2018

Background:

Partial weight-bearing protocols are commonly incorporated into rehabilitation to enhance recovery. Patients are often prescribed protocols that refer to a percentage of their body weight, such as 20% weight bearing, that should be placed through the healing limb during activities such as walking (gait). In order to achieve these partial weight-bearing protocols, patients are usually provided with walking aids such as crutches. Accurate reproducibility of and compliance with these protocols could be considered essential to the rehabilitation process; however, poor reproducibility of partial weight-bearing protocols during crutch assisted gait using a current method of instruction has been shown.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to determine whether a more dynamic method of partial weight bearing protocol instruction was more accurately reproduced.

Methods:

In total, 16 participants were randomly allocated to one of two groups and were taught 20% partial weight bearing using two different methods of instruction. A participant's ability to reproduce their target load using crutch assisted gait was assessed using a force plate.

Findings:

The mean error for the static method of instruction was significantly greater than the more dynamic method.

Conclusion:

As seen previously, the static method of instruction of partial weight bearing protocols, using bathroom scales, does not seem to translate accurately to dynamic motion; however, the more dynamic method assessed in this study appears to result in more accurate reproducibility.
Can triple inhalers reduce costs in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?
Authors: Hickey Steven
Published: November 2018

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a progressive disease often associated with dyspnoea. Management of this dyspnoea is often achieved by using inhaled bronchodilators with varying degrees of success. Patients are often prescribed with two or three separate inhalers to achieve optimal pulmonary function. This article discusses ‘triple inhalers’ and considers the possible patient and healthcare provision benefits of combining three drugs into one inhaler to optimise lung function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Calcuating high cost drug expenditure using AMOS
Authors: Smith Graham
Published: November 2018

Background:

Starting in 2003/2004, Payment by Results allowed a hospital to claim for healthcare costs (tariff based); however, some drugs were disproportionate to the activity and needed to be claimed separately. This introduced additional activity for staff.

aims:

The aim was to introduce a means to calculate these costs but not at the expense of either taking time away from current activities or increasing staff.

Methods:

The method was to automate the process by developing an Artificial Member of Staff using software.

Findings:

The introduction of the Artificial Member of Staff has been accuracy and repetition in the calculation of costs; a significant reduction in processing time and the ability to quality assure the results as both the process and the costs can be accurately tracked.

Conclusion:

The Artificial Member of Staff has had a significant impact. The Artificial Member of Staff has not only reduced overall processing time, but has also reduced the need to recruit more staff members.
Realities and practicalities of achieving sustainable improvements in foot health on dairy farms
Authors: Mahendran Sophie A
Published: November 2018

Dairy cattle lameness is still a significant problem on many dairy units, with the range of lameness prevalence still unchanged from reports nearly a decade ago (0–79%). There are three main areas to achieving sustained improvements in herd foot health: first, building a good working relationship with your farmer, ensuring a constructive 2-way dialogue is used; second, collecting a range of data about the herd's lameness status to indicate the major issues; third, coming up with appropriate and realistic suggestions to help ensure sustainable improvements in lameness are created. This article covers components of all three areas, helping practioners hone their consulting skills to achieve sustainable improvements in cattle lameness.
The role of the vet in improving biosecurity on beef, dairy and sheep farms in the UK: a clinical forum
Authors: Wapenaar Wendela , Payne Emily , Jackson Rose , Pooley Fay , Cresswell Liz
Published: November 2018

More than 12 years ago, Le Blanc et al (2006) stated that an everbetter understanding of epidemiology and pathophysiology will not in itself reduce the incidence of disease. The ability to translate emerging knowledge into on-farm application and actual prevention of problems requires understanding of the farm as an integrated system, a major component of which is educating and motivating humans to implement well-designed practices. When aiming to improve biosecurity on farm it is important to consider this ‘human’ part of the equation, i.e. the role of the veterinary surgeon and their relationship with the farmer, and several studies have recently provided insights, which are important to consider and guide the direction veterinary surgeons can take to improve biosecurity on farm.
Feeding dairy goats
Authors: Chamberlain AT
Published: November 2018

The modern commercial dairy goat is a high-performance ruminant. At peak yields and in late pregnancy diets with a high nutrient density are required. These must be carefully formulated and presented to maximise feed intakes and minimise ruminal disorders. Feeding standards have been specified for goats in several countries (e.g. UK, 1998, USA, 2007) and goat specific ration formulation software should always be used. Excessive energy intakes are a problem in late lactation when yields are low (below 2 litre/day) due to poor genetics or long lactations. Body fat reserves can be assessed using body condition scoring concentrating on the sternal and lumbar areas. Over-conditioned goats in late lactation are a common risk factor for fat-type pregnancy toxaemia. Treatment of clinical cases is often unrewarding, and efforts should be focused on prevention with diagnosis and treatment based on blood testing before cases become clinical.
Dealing with wild deer casualties
Authors: Green Peter
Published: November 2018

The veterinary surgeon in practice may be asked to attend, examine and treat wild deer that are injured or diseased. For all species, the most common reason for such a request is as a result of a road traffic accident (RTA), but the smaller species may be trapped in drains, fences or gates or mauled by dogs. Larger deer may be entangled by their antlers. Neonates may be mistakenly ‘rescued’ by well-meaning members of the public and presented to the veterinarian. Species of wild deer in the UK differ widely in size, behaviour and suitability for rehabilitation. This article provides guidance and advice about the approach to wild deer casualties, including species differentiation, first-line triage and options for possible treatment. A brief overview of medicines suitable for deer is provided, together with recommendations for housing and nursing wild deer during recovery, although rapid release is recommended because survival rates of rehabilitated or translocated deer are likely to be poor.
African swine fever in Europe is now hitting China
Authors: Carr John , Howells Mark
Published: November 2018

African swine fever, an arthropod-borne virus, is spreading throughout Europe and has now reached China, posing a significant threat to the European and Asian pig herd. This article outlines the characteristics of the virus, its control and treatment, and methods by which contamination can be prevented, which rely heavily on the surveillance and openness of the whole farm health team.