bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENGEMBANGAN MODEL LATIHAN MENYERANG PADA PERMAINAN BOLA BASKET
Authors: Sulaiman Iman , Fajrin Ahmad Rizaldy
Published: June 2018

The objective of the research and development of the training model is to attack on the game of basketball. In addition, research and development is conducted to obtain in-depth information about the development and implementation of the exercise model and to know the effectiveness, efficiency of the model made.This research and development uses Research & Development (R & D) development methods from Borg and Gall. The subjects in this research and development are 2 different two place clubs of Victoria basketball club, Level Up basketball club.The model effectiveness test uses a test instrument to collect the basketball player's ability data. Analysis of research data using t test with significance level of 0.05. Analysis of data obtained average attack value before given model of attacking exercise is 61.0455 or 61 and after being given treatment with attacking model 75.5909 or 75.6. In the test of significance difference with SPSS 16 can result t-count = -29,567 db = 44 and p-value = 0.00 <0.05 which means there is a significant difference in the ability to attack before and after being given an attacking training model on basketball game that with a significance level of 0.05 then H0 is rejected. Based on the description it can be concluded that the training model attack on basket game developed that can be applied effectively and efficiently so that it can increase attack on basketball players.
Lumbar Epidural Corticosteroid Injection Reduces Subacute Pain and Improves Knee Function in the First Six Weeks After Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Tammachote Nattapol , Seangleulur Alisa , Kanitnate Supakit
Published: June 2018

Background:

Pain control immediately following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been a focus for orthopaedists. However, control of subacute pain, which may persist up to 3 months, is usually not optimized. The efficacy of epidural corticosteroids in reducing pain after surgery is documented, but data on their efficacy in controlling subacute pain after TKA are lacking. Our aim was to investigate the efficacy of an epidural corticosteroid in controlling pain in the first 3 months following TKA using a double-blinded randomized clinical trial.

Methods:

One hundred and eight patients with osteoarthritis of the knee who underwent TKA and received analgesic drugs through an epidural catheter for 48 hours were randomized to receive either 40 mg (1 mL) of triamcinolone acetonide plus 5 mL of 1% lidocaine, or 6 mL of 1% lidocaine alone before catheter removal. The outcomes of interest were pain level during motion and at rest, knee function, and range of motion, which were recorded up to 3 months after surgery. Multilevel regression models were used to estimate the differences between groups.

Results:

The corticosteroid + lidocaine group had a lower average level of pain during motion compared with the lidocaine-only group, as measured by a visual analog scale (VAS), from day 3 to 7 weeks postoperatively (p < 0.05). At 7 weeks, the mean difference was −7 points (95% confidence interval [CI], −12.8 to −1.0 points; p = 0.033). The corticosteroid + lidocaine group also had a better mean overall modified Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score at 6 weeks postoperatively (28 compared with 33 points; 95% CI, −8.6 to −0.6 points; p = 0.03). There was no difference between the groups in the level of pain at rest and knee range of motion during the 3-month period (p > 0.05).

Conclusions:

Lumbar epidural corticosteroid injection reduced pain during motion for 7 weeks and provided better knee function at 6 weeks postoperatively compared with lidocaine alone. There was no difference detected with respect to pain at rest and knee range of motion during the 3-month follow-up. Epidural corticosteroids could improve patient satisfaction during the early weeks of recovery after TKA.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Preoperative Doxycycline Does Not Reduce Propionibacterium acnes in Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Rao Allison J. , Chalmers Peter N. , Cvetanovich Gregory L. , O’Brien Michael C. , Newgren Jon M. , Cole Brian J. , Verma Nikhil N. , Nicholson Gregory P. , Romeo Anthony A.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is the most common bacteria associated with infection after shoulder arthroplasty. These bacteria can be grown on culture of skin after standard preoperative skin preparation and antibiotics. The purpose of this study was to determine whether adding preoperative intravenous doxycycline reduces the prevalence of positive P. acnes cultures of skin and deep tissues at the time of prosthetic joint implantation during shoulder arthroplasty.

Methods:

This was a randomized controlled trial. An a priori power analysis determined that a sample size of 56 patients was necessary. Patients scheduled to undergo shoulder arthroplasty were randomized to receive either standard perioperative cefazolin or a combination of doxycycline and cefazolin. Tissue specimens for culture were then taken from the skin edge, and swabs of the superficial dermal tissue and glenohumeral joint were obtained. All cultures were maintained for 14 days to allow for P. acnes detection. Groups were compared to determine if the addition of doxycycline reduced the rate of culture positivity.

Results:

Fifty-six patients were enrolled and randomized. Twenty-one (38%) had ≥1 positive cultures for P. acnes, with no significant difference between the group treated with cefazolin alone (10 [37%] of 27 patients) and the combined doxycycline and cefazolin group (11 [38%] of 29 patients) (p = 0.99). The greatest numbers of culture-positive samples were obtained from the skin (30%), followed by dermal tissue (20%) and the glenohumeral joint (5%). Patients who had ≥1 positive cultures were younger than those who did not (mean age [and standard deviation], 64.9 ± 7.7 versus 69.4 ± 7.7 years; p = 0.041), had a greater tendency to be male (16 [76%] of 21 versus 17 [49%] of 35; p = 0.053), and had a lower Charlson Comorbidity Index (3.35 ± 1.3 versus 4.09 ± 1.4; p = 0.051). There were no significant differences between the culture-positive and culture-negative groups in terms of body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.446) or arthroplasty type, with positive cultures found for 8 of the 29 anatomic shoulder arthroplasty procedures compared with 13 of the 27 reverse shoulder arthroplasty procedures (p = 0.280). There were no doxycycline-related adverse events.

Conclusions:

In this randomized controlled trial, doxycycline did not significantly decrease P. acnes culture positivity of the skin, dermis, or glenohumeral joint of patients undergoing shoulder arthroplasty. The addition of prophylactic intravenous antibiotics to cover P. acnes may not be an effective method to reduce postoperative and periprosthetic shoulder joint infections.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Predictors for Long-Term Hip Survivorship Following Acetabular Fracture Surgery
Authors: Verbeek Diederik O. , van der List Jelle P. , Tissue Camden M. , Helfet David L.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Historically, the greatest residual (gap or step) displacement is used to predict clinical outcome following acetabular fracture surgery. Gap and step displacement may, however, impact the outcome to different degrees. We assessed the individual relationship between gap or step displacement and hip survivorship and determined their independent association with conversion to total hip arthroplasty.

Methods:

Patients who had acetabular fracture fixation (from 1992 through 2014), follow-up of ≥2 years (or early conversion to total hip arthroplasty), and postoperative computed tomography (CT) scans were included. Of 227 patients, 55 (24.2%) had conversion to total hip arthroplasty at a mean follow-up (and standard deviation) of 8.7 ± 5.6 years. Residual gap and step displacement were measured using a standardized CT-based method, and assessors were blinded to the outcome. Kaplan-Meier survivorship curves for the hips were plotted and compared (log-rank test) using critical cutoff values for gap and step displacement. These values were identified using receiver operating characteristic curves. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent variables associated with conversion to total hip arthroplasty. Subgroup analysis was performed in younger patients (<50 years old).

Results:

The critical CT cutoff value for total hip arthroplasty conversion was 5 mm for gap and 1 mm for step displacement. Hip survivorship at 10 years was 82.0% for patients with a gap of <5 mm compared with 56.5% for a gap of ≥5 mm (p < 0.001) and 80.0% for a step of <1.0 mm versus 65.5% for a step of ≥1.0 mm (p = 0.012). A gap of ≥5 mm (hazard ratio [HR], 2.3; p = 0.012) and an age of ≥50 years (HR, 4.2; p < 0.001) were independently associated with conversion to total hip arthroplasty in all patients. In the subgroup of younger patients, only a step of ≥1 mm (HR, 6.4; p = 0.017) was an independent factor for conversion to total hip arthroplasty.

Conclusions:

Residual gap and step displacement as measured on CT scans are both related to long-term hip survivorship, but step displacement (1 mm) is tolerated less than gap displacement (5 mm). Of the 2 types of displacement, only a large gap displacement (≥5 mm) was independently associated with conversion to total hip arthroplasty. In younger patients who had less articular impaction with smaller residual gaps, only step displacement (≥1 mm) appeared to be associated with this outcome.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Minimum Five-Year Outcomes of Hip Arthroscopy for the Treatment of Femoroacetabular Impingement and Labral Tears in Patients with Obesity
Authors: Perets Itay , Rybalko Danil , Chaharbakhshi Edwin O. , Mu Brian H. , Chen Austin W. , Domb Benjamin G.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Obesity is a negative prognostic factor for various surgical procedures. The purpose of this study was to compare patients with obesity who underwent hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement and labral tears with a match-controlled group of normal-weight patients.

Methods:

Data were prospectively collected and retrospectively reviewed for patients who underwent arthroscopy between February 2008 and December 2011. Inclusion criteria were treatment for femoroacetabular impingement and labral tears and completed preoperative patient-reported outcomes and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain. Exclusion criteria were previous ipsilateral hip conditions or preoperative Tönnis grade of ≥2. Patients with obesity (body mass index [BMI] of ≥30 kg/m2) were matched and were compared with normal-weight patients (BMI of 18.5 to 24.99 kg/m2) using a 1:1 ratio by age at the time of the surgical procedure within 5 years, sex, acetabular Outerbridge grade (0 or 1 compared with 2, 3, or 4), and capsular treatment.

Results:

Of the 96 obesity cases with follow-up, 74 were pair-matched to control cases. The mean BMI was 34.3 kg/m2 for the obesity group and 22.7 kg/m2 for the control group (p < 0.0001). The mean follow-up time was 71.6 months for the obesity group and 71.3 months for the control group (p = 0.41). All mean preoperative patient-reported outcomes and VAS scores for patients without conversion to total hip arthroplasty were significantly worse in the obesity group: modified Harris hip score (p = 0.0001), Non-Arthritic Hip Score (p = 0.0001), Hip Outcome Score Sports-Specific Scale (HOS-SSS) (p = 0.015), and VAS (p = 0.01). No significant differences were observed with regard to demographic characteristics, intraoperative findings, procedures, follow-up scores, magnitudes of improvement, or secondary arthroscopy rates (p > 0.05). Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in mean outcome scores at ≥5 years (p < 0.0001). In both groups, no significant differences were detected in mean outcome scores between 2 years and ≥5 years (p > 0.05). The conversion rate to total hip arthroplasty was 29.7% for the obesity group and 14.9% for the control group (relative risk, 2.0 [95% confidence interval, 1.1 to 3.8]; p = 0.04).

Conclusions:

Hip arthroscopy for the treatment of femoroacetabular impingement and labral tears in patients with obesity yielded significant improvements at ≥5 years; these results were similar to a matched group of normal-weight patients. However, patients with obesity demonstrated a twofold increased risk of conversion to total hip arthroplasty.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
A Comparison of Defense and Plaintiff Expert Witnesses in Orthopaedic Surgery Malpractice Litigation
Authors: Park Howard Y. , Zoller Stephen D. , Sheppard William L. , Hegde Vishal , Smith Ryan A. , Borthwell Rachel M. , Clarkson Samuel J. , Hamad Christopher D. , Proal Joshua D. , Bernthal Nicholas M.
Published: June 2018

Background:

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) Standards of Professionalism, the responsible testimony of expert witnesses in orthopaedic surgery malpractice lawsuits is important to the public interest. However, these expert witnesses are recruited and compensated without established standards, and their testimony can potentially sway court opinion, with substantial consequences. The objective of this study was to characterize defense and plaintiff expert orthopaedic surgeon witnesses in orthopaedic surgery malpractice litigation.

Methods:

Utilizing the WestlawNext legal database, defense and plaintiff expert witnesses involved in orthopaedic surgery malpractice lawsuits from 2013 to 2017 were identified. Each witness’s subspecialty, mean years of experience, involvement in academic or private practice, fellowship training, and scholarly impact, as measured by the Hirsch index (h-index), were determined through a query of professional profiles, the Scopus database, and a PubMed search. Statistical comparisons were made for each parameter among defense and plaintiff expert witnesses.

Results:

Between 2013 and 2017, 306 expert medical witnesses for orthopaedic cases were identified; 174 (56.9%) testified on behalf of the plaintiff, and 132 (43.1%) testified on behalf of the defense. Orthopaedic surgeons who identified themselves as general orthopaedists comprised the largest share of expert witnesses on both the plaintiff (n = 61) and defense (n = 25) sides. The plaintiff witnesses averaged 36 years of experience versus 31 years for the defense witnesses (p < 0.001); 26% of the plaintiff witnesses held an academic position versus 43% of the defense witnesses (p = 0.013). Defense witnesses exhibited a higher proportion of fellowship training in comparison to plaintiff expert witnesses (80.5% versus 64.5%, respectively, p = 0.003). The h-index for the plaintiff group was 6.6 versus 9.1 for the defense group (p = 0.04). Two witnesses testified for both the plaintiff and defense sides.

Conclusions:

Defense expert witnesses held higher rates of academic appointments and exhibited greater scholarly impact than their plaintiff counterparts, with both sides averaging >30 years of experience. These data collectively show that there are differences in characteristics between plaintiff and defense witnesses. Additional study is needed to illuminate the etiology of these differences.
Inability of Older Adult Patients with Hip Fracture to Maintain Postoperative Weight-Bearing Restrictions
Authors: Kammerlander Christian , Pfeufer Daniel , Lisitano Leonard Adolf , Mehaffey Stefan , Böcker Wolfgang , Neuerburg Carl
Published: June 2018

Background:

For elderly trauma patients, a basic goal is early mobilization, as immobilization can trigger various complications, such as venous thromboembolism, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and pressure ulcers. Although partial weight-bearing has been shown to significantly increase mortality compared with unrestricted weight-bearing, it remains a frequent recommendation of aftercare following lower-extremity fracture fixation.

Methods:

An insole force sensor was used to measure true postoperative weight-bearing by patients ≥75 years of age treated for hip fracture compared with patients 18 to 40 years of age treated for ankle fracture. Both groups were instructed to maintain partial weight-bearing on the affected limb (≤20 kg) postoperatively. Following standardized physiotherapy training, gait analysis was performed.

Results:

None of the patients in the elderly test group were able to comply with the weight-bearing restriction as recommended. We found that 69% (11 of 16) of the patients exceeded the specified load by more than twofold, whereas significantly more patients in the younger control group (>75% [14 of 18]) achieved almost the entire weight-bearing restriction (p < 0.001). Only 1 of the elderly patients was able to comply with the predetermined weight-bearing restriction, and only for a short period of time. In comparison, significantly more patients in the control group (89% [16 of 18]; p < 0.001) maintained the partial load for nearly the entire time during gait analysis.

Conclusions:

Elderly patients seem to be unable to maintain weight-bearing restrictions. As early mobilization of geriatric trauma patients is an important element for a successful rehabilitation, the directive of postoperative partial weight-bearing for these patients should be abandoned.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
The Effect of Previous Methylphenidate Use on Incidence of Stress Fractures in Military Recruits
Authors: Ben-Ami Ilan S. , Ankory Ran , Kadar Assaf , Rotman Dani , Snir Nimrod , Schermann Haggai
Published: June 2018

Background:

Previous research has detected an increased risk of stress fractures among subjects who reported previous use of methylphenidate. Conversely, stimulant medication use has been associated with traumatic fracture risk reduction, possibly because of the improved control of the underlying symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of previous methylphenidate use on the incidence of traumatic and stress fractures among combat soldiers with previously treated and untreated ADHD.

Methods:

The retrospective cohort included 100,000 combat soldiers recruited to the Israeli Defense Forces from 2005 through 2015. Diagnosis of ADHD and previous exposure to methylphenidate were determined on the basis of self-reported recruitment questionnaires and medical records. Accordingly, the cohort was divided into 3 groups: subjects with ADHD who were previously treated with methylphenidate (n = 689), untreated subjects with ADHD reporting no medication use (n = 762), and controls having no ADHD diagnosis (n = 98,549). Logistic regressions were fitted to determine the odds ratios (ORs) of study subjects for stress and non-stress (traumatic) fractures. Multivariate analysis incorporated baseline characteristics, including age, sex, weight, duration of service, and diagnosis of anemia, at some point during the service.

Results:

After adjustment for sex, anemia, weight, age, and duration of service, the risk of traumatic fractures was increased in both subjects with treated ADHD (OR, 1.03 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.00 to 1.05]) and subjects with untreated ADHD (OR, 1.04 [95% CI, 1.02 to 1.07]) compared with controls. Subjects in the treated ADHD group were at a higher risk of stress fractures (OR, 1.04 [95% CI, 1.02 to 1.07]). Interestingly, a diagnosis of anemia was an independent predictor of stress fractures (OR, 1.05 [95% CI, 1.04 to 1.06]).

Conclusions:

Methylphenidate use is associated with an increased risk of stress fractures but a decreased risk of traumatic fractures in individuals diagnosed with ADHD. These and previous findings may serve as sufficient basis for screening for other risk factors and perhaps taking prevention measures in all those using stimulant medications, especially those planning to engage in strenuous physical activity.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Illicit drug use among university students in Lithuania: age, gender differences and correlation with lifestyle
Authors: Rupšienė Liudmila , Saveljeva Regina , Baranauskienė Ingrida , Batuchina Aleksandra
Published: June 2018

The article presents the research aiming at answering a question What is the illegal drug use among university students in Lithuania and what is its correlation with the age, gender and lifestyle? The research data was obtained from 18 Lithuanian universities involved in the research. The questionnaire’s questions were answered by 1087 students: 37 % male and 63 % female students. The average age of the respondents was 21 years; minimal age was 18, maximum was 29. The ESPAD questionnaire was adapted for the research. Some research results proved earlier results of research studies carried out in Lithuania; however, new tendencies significant to practice of prevention of drug use were revealed as well.
Prospective foster parents‘ attitude towards the provided social worker‘s assistance: a case of an X Lithuanian town
Authors: Leliūgienė Irena , Stūglytė-Novickienė Inga , Kaušylienė Angelė
Published: June 2018

The article introduces the significance of social worker's assistance to prospective foster parents: a case of an X Lithuanian town. The best place for the child development and improvement is the family. For some reasons not all the children are raised in families. Some children have no possibility to live with their biological families, therefore according to the established legislation, they live in foster homes under the supervision of foster parents or are adopted. Children adoption in our country is regulated by different acts of legislation. The activity of the ombudsperson for children’s rights is governed by the Law on the Ombudsman for Children Rights Protection of the Republic of Lithuania (2000), Civil Code of the Republic of Lithuania, Regulations of organization and management of children guardianship (2002), etc. Research aim is to analyze the social service worker's assistance to the prospective foster parents. The following objectives to reach our goal are presented: to analyze theoretical conception of adoption procedure and enforcement; to discuss the system of the social service workers’ assistance to prospective foster parents; to investigate foster parents' approach towards the social service worker's assistance and to reveal the main problems. Research methods: analysis of the scientific literature – scientific analysis of adoption issues. The stages of adoption procedures and the requirements overviewed and analysed are provided; document analysis: documents, acts of legislation, laws and regulations of child adoption regulations are analysed and overviewed; a qualitative study: semi-structured interview, analyzing the foster parents' approach towards the social service workers' assistance; problems and probable solutions are identified. The research results are obtained by content analysis. The article presents the following generalizations: 1) adoption is considered as a social process when specific rights and responsibilities are provided to foster parents in order to guarantee the child's safety. In case of inter-country adoption, the adoption opportunities are estimated, the child is prepared for the adoption and the family for the child is selected. At that period foster parents face internal and external factors. Seeking to grant the children rights and smooth adoption process, professional social workers should coordinate it; 2) institution of the Ombudsman for Children Rights of the Republic of Lithuania and State Child Rights Protection and Adoption Service under the Ministry of Social Security and Labour are also engaged in the adoption and foster care; 3) the research results reveal that the biggest problems for prospective foster parents are extensively long adoption period, lack of social service workers' assistance and poor knowledge on the available assistance.
Specifics of arts therapies in educational institutions comparing the institutions of health care setting
Authors: Kantor Jiri
Published: June 2018

18 arts therapists from educational and healthcare institutions in Czech Republic were interviewed to determine the specifics of therapeutic practice in educational institutions. The results relate to the presence of different professions in the team, their qualification and  level of therapeutic competence, understanding the roles and work of arts therapists, the impact of arts on institutions, the depth of therapeutic change, formulation of therapeutic contract, therapeutic goals, organisation of therapy, the therapy room and privacy and assessments/evaluation.
Mobilidade urbana e as áreas verdes do Município de João Pessoa, Paraíba: perspectivas para uma cidade sustentável
Authors: Fernandes Hélder Formiga , Lucena Reinaldo Farias Paiva de
Published: June 2018

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar a Mobilidade Urbana e as Áreas Verdes do Município de João Pessoa, na perspectiva do desenvolvimento de uma cidade sustentável. O embasamento teórico da pesquisa foi elaborado com o auxílio da norma ABNT NBR ISO 37.120:2017, que dá os parâmetros necessários para avaliar o desenvolvimento sustentável de comunidades. Visitas periódicas foram realizadas na Secretaria de Mobilidade Urbana (SEMOB) e na Secretaria de Meio Ambiente (SEMAM) do Município de João Pessoa, bem como na Superintendência de Administração do Meio Ambiente (SUDEMA) para a obtenção de documentos oficiais para análise, bem como foram realizadas visitas em vários setores da cidade para mapear as áreas verdes do município e avaliar os seus principais Programas de Mobilidade Urbana. Também foram elaborados questionários, os quais foram respondidos por pessoas escolhidas aleatoriamente. Foi constatado que o Município de João Pessoa vem realizando Projetos de Infraestrutura Urbano Sustentável, intervenções em vários setores da cidade, que incluem capeamento asfáltico, alargamento de vias, instalação de ciclovias, rebaixamento de calçadas, faixas exclusivas para ônibus, melhorando a capacidade de mobilidade da população. Embora sejam notórios os esforços da edilidade para facilitar a mobilidade urbana no Município de João Pessoa, ao serem questionados, a maioria dos respondentes informaram que o excesso de veículos é a maior dificuldade para os deslocamentos nas vias. Além disso, a má qualidade dos ônibus e o tempo de espera superior a 30 minutos desestimulam o uso deste tipo de transporte, fazendo com que João Pessoa seja uma cidade que utiliza o modelo automobilístico-rodoviário urbano para a mobilidade da população. Com relação às áreas verdes, a Mata do Buraquinho, o Parque Arruda Câmara e a Praça da Independência são frequentados por uma grande parcela da população. A maioria dos respondentes reconheceram que o Município de João Pessoa como uma cidade verde, estando preparado para receber o título de cidade sustentável. Conclui-se que o Município de João Pessoa está conduzindo projetos de mobilidade urbana e nas áreas verdes, transformando-a numa cidade sustentável.
Mobilidade urbana e as áreas verdes do Município de João Pessoa, Paraíba: perspectivas para uma cidade sustentável - material suplementar
Authors: Fernandes Hélder Formiga , Lucena Reinaldo Farias Paiva de
Published: June 2018

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar a Mobilidade Urbana e as Áreas Verdes do Município de João Pessoa, na perspectiva do desenvolvimento de uma cidade sustentável. O embasamento teórico da pesquisa foi elaborado com o auxílio da norma ABNT NBR ISO 37.120:2017, que dá os parâmetros necessários para avaliar o desenvolvimento sustentável de comunidades. Visitas periódicas foram realizadas na Secretaria de Mobilidade Urbana (SEMOB) e na Secretaria de Meio Ambiente (SEMAM) do Município de João Pessoa, bem como na Superintendência de Administração do Meio Ambiente (SUDEMA) para a obtenção de documentos oficiais para análise, bem como foram realizadas visitas em vários setores da cidade para mapear as áreas verdes do município e avaliar os seus principais Programas de Mobilidade Urbana. Também foram elaborados questionários, os quais foram respondidos por pessoas escolhidas aleatoriamente. Foi constatado que o Município de João Pessoa vem realizando Projetos de Infraestrutura Urbano Sustentável, intervenções em vários setores da cidade, que incluem capeamento asfáltico, alargamento de vias, instalação de ciclovias, rebaixamento de calçadas, faixas exclusivas para ônibus, melhorando a capacidade de mobilidade da população. Embora sejam notórios os esforços da edilidade para facilitar a mobilidade urbana no Município de João Pessoa, ao serem questionados, a maioria dos respondentes informaram que o excesso de veículos é a maior dificuldade para os deslocamentos nas vias. Além disso, a má qualidade dos ônibus e o tempo de espera superior a 30 minutos desestimulam o uso deste tipo de transporte, fazendo com que João Pessoa seja uma cidade que utiliza o modelo automobilístico-rodoviário urbano para a mobilidade da população. Com relação às áreas verdes, a Mata do Buraquinho, o Parque Arruda Câmara e a Praça da Independência são frequentados por uma grande parcela da população. A maioria dos respondentes reconheceram que o Município de João Pessoa como uma cidade verde, estando preparado para receber o título de cidade sustentável. Conclui-se que o Município de João Pessoa está conduzindo projetos de mobilidade urbana e nas áreas verdes, transformando-a numa cidade sustentável.
The peculiarities of working capital management at agroindustrial enterprises of Ukraine
Authors: Mann Ruslan , Martinovich Victor , Yakusheva Oksana
Published: June 2018

Achieving the balance in the formation of working capital is a prerequisite for stable development of enterprises and improvement of the economic situation in Ukraine as a whole that is especially relevant during the period of socio-economic crisis. The study of working capital management peculiarities of agricultural enterprises deserves special attention, since their contribution to the national economy is significant.The purpose of the article is to investigate methods of assessing the efficiency of formation of enterprises working capital and prospects for its application to characterize the current state of domestic agricultural enterprises activity. The object of the research is determining the actual model of working capital financing at Ukrainian agricultural enterprises.In the article, the efficiency of formation and use of working capital in Ukrainian agricultural sector is analyzed. The actual model of working capital financing of enterprises in this sector is determined. It is typical for this sphere to adhere the aggressive policy of current assets formation, which increases the risk of loss of the solvency and financial stability. Optimization of sources of working capital financing at domestic agricultural enterprises will increase the volume of economic activity financing and improve the enterprises liquidity.
FUNCIONALIDADE DA LEI DAS SACOLAS PLÁSTICAS NA REDUÇÃO DOS IMPACTOS AMBIENTAIS EM CAMPOS DOS GOYTACAZES, RJ
Authors: Escocard Fábio Carneiro , Almeida Micaela Chagas , Erthal Milton
Published: June 2018

Resumo: As sacolas plásticas, tradicionalmente distribuídas pelo comércio atacadista apresentam baixo nível de degradabilidade, causando impactos negativos na natureza. Com o intuito de restringir a circulação das sacolas plásticas, o Governo do Estado do Rio de Janeiro instituiu em 2009 a Lei Ordinária 5.502. Este estudo objetivou a avaliação da funcionalidade da Lei das Sacolas Plásticas sob a percepção de consumidores e gerentes de redes de supermercados no município de Campos dos Goytacazes-RJ. Com a finalidade de observar a eficácia dessa lei, o estudo foi realizado em duas séries temporais: 2011 e 2017. A coleta de dados foi realizada a partir da aplicação de questionários, contendo questões abertas e fechadas, para avaliar a percepção dos consumidores (n=250) e dos gerentes de redes de supermercados (n=5). Porcentagens, estatísticas descritivas e inferenciais foram usadas na interpretação dos dados. Constatou-se que a Lei 5.502 não exerceu efeito prático de Educação Ambiental nem de redução do consumo das sacolas plásticas. Durante o período avaliado, houve diminuição do nível de conhecimento dos consumidores sobre a legislação em questão e seus benefícios. Atribui-se esse fato à falta de fiscalização do poder público quanto ao atendimento à legislação, à ineficiência do método de divulgação exigido pela lei e à falta de alternativas para substituição das sacolas plásticas convencionais. Além de não trazer os benefícios ambientais esperados, os consumidores passaram a custear tal item durante as compras, fato que levanta questionamentos sobre os reais benefícios da Lei 5.502.
Ecological effect evaluation of water diversion in the Yellow River delta wetland
Authors: Wang Fuqiang , Yang Huan , Zhao Heng , Kang Pingping
Published: June 2018

Ecological effect evaluation of water diversion is a difficult and long-term process requiring complex monitoring data and scientific evaluation method. Based on remote sensing data and the ecological investigation data of Yellow River delta, this study built a wetland ecology evaluation index system with the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) framework, which included 13 evaluation indices of three criteria as suitability, diversity, and functionality. Fuzzy-AHP comprehensive evaluation method was used to evaluate the ecological effect of water diversion at Diaokou River wetland restoration zone. The results show that the comprehensive evaluation index (CEI) of wetland ecology is 0.464 before water diversion, which belongs to the ‘poor’ level, while after five years of water diversion, the CEI increased to 0.737, which belongs to the ‘fine’ level. It represents that ecological water diversion has made prominent positive effects for the ecosystem of Diaokou River wetland restoration zone. The research result could give decision-makers a clear understanding about the ecological effect of wetland water diversion and provide scientific guidance for strategic decisions.
Monitoring of iodine species during water purification at a public water treatment plant in Japan
Authors: Nishida Sho , Asami Maki , Ohata Naoya , Horigome Jun , Furuta Naoki
Published: June 2018

Iodine is an essential element for humans; however, it can be toxic depending on its chemical form. A variety of toxic and non-toxic iodine species have been identified in environmental water and in the drinking water produced by public water treatment plants. Here, we examined the change of iodine species during the water treatment process at a public water treatment plant in Japan. Samples of raw water and of treated water immediately after each of eight treatment stages comprising the treatment process were collected, and a speciation analysis was conducted by means of ion chromatography– and size-exclusion chromatography–inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. In the raw water, iodine was found mainly as iodide or iodinated humic substances that were ultimately oxidized and transformed into iodate, a form non-toxic to humans, by two independent oxidation stages in the water treatment process – ozone treatment and chlorine treatment. No disinfection byproducts were detected at any stage of the treatment process. Fluorescence spectrometry with multivariate analysis revealed that humic substances were markedly decreased by ozone treatment, but not by chlorine treatment. The present results show that, at the plant-scale, ozone treatment is an effective means of removing toxic iodine species from raw water.
Optical Sensors for Detection of Amino Acids
Authors: Pettiwala Aafrin M. , Singh Prabhat K.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Amino acids are crucially involved in a myriad of biological processes.
Any aberrant changes in physiological level of amino acids often manifest in common
metabolic disorders, serious neurological conditions and cardiovascular diseases. Thus, devising
methods for detection of trace amounts of amino acids becomes highly elemental to their
efficient clinical diagnosis. Recently, the domain of developing optical sensors for detection of
amino acids has witnessed significant activity which is the focus of the current review article.

Methods:

We undertook a detailed search of the peer-reviewed literature that primarily deals
with optical sensors for amino acids and focuses on the use of different type of materials as a
sensing platform.

Results:

Ninety-five papers have been included in the review, majority of which deal with optical
sensors. We attempt to systematically classify these contributions based on the applications
of various chemical and biological scaffolds such as polymers, supramolecular assemblies,
nanoparticles, DNA, heparin etc for the sensing of amino acids. This review identifies
that supramolecular assemblies and nanomaterial continue to be commonly used platforms to
devise sensors for amino acids followed by surfactant assemblies.

Conclusion:

The broad implications of amino acids in human health and diagnosis have
stirred a lot of interest to develop optimized optical detection systems for amino acids in recent
years, using different materials based on chemical and biological scaffolds. We have also attempted
to highlight the merits and demerits of some of the noteworthy sensor systems to instigate
further efforts for constructing amino acids sensor based on unconventional concepts.
Developing the New Barrier Condition Index (BCI) to Unify the Barrier Assessments - A Case Study in Wind River Indian Reservation, Wyoming
Authors: Molan Amirarsalan Mehrara , Ksaibati Khaled
Published: June 2018

Based on the statistics, roadsides include a considerable portion of the fatal crashes annually. Barrier systems are one of the important components of roadside that plays a key role in mitigating the severity of these crashes and save more lives. Despite the substantial role of barrier systems, unfortunately, there is no unified rating system in the barrier condition assessments to utilize for the optimization of the improvements. As the primary contribution in this study, a new Barrier Condition Index (BCI) was proposed to unify the barrier assessment studies to use the same reference for rating barrier systems. This fact makes the decision-makers able to establish a prioritized ranking for optimizing the barrier improvements. For this purpose, the research investigated a comprehensive list of damages in barrier systems. Then, appropriate coefficients were given to the damage types based on their effects on the performance of the system reviewing the previous works. To show the practicability of the new BCI as an example for the whole procedure of the assessment, six different barrier systems located in Wind River Indian Reservation (WRIR), Wyoming, were also evaluated in the study. Based on the evaluation done, the BCI was used to rank the performance of the barriers. Three of the barrier segments at WRIR was introduced as the high-severity level which should be considered in the first priority of the improvement phase.
Párhuzamos kinematikájú manipulátorok kinematikájának és munkaterének vizsgálata
Authors: Bodnár Dávid , Hajdu Sándor
Published: June 2018

A kutatás célja két párhuzamos manipulátor kinematikájának és munkaterének vizsgálata. A kinematikai vizsgálatok vektoralgebrával és a Newton módszerrel készültek el. A munkaterek konstans orientációval kerültek ábrázolásra. A dolgozat eredménye, hogy a két manipulátor kinematikája és munkatere összehasonlítható. A számításokhoz a MATLAB program került felhasználásra.
The Trendelenburg Position and Cognitive Decline: A Case-Control Interventional Study Involving Healthy Volunteers (Preprint)
Authors: Vitish-Sharma Parveen , Maxwell-Armstrong Charles , Guo Boliang , Yick Crystal , Acheson Austin G
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND

Postoperative cognitive decline (POCD) is defined as a new cognitive impairment arising after a surgical intervention. Aspects of cognitive function can be assessed using various validated cognitive function tests including the N-back task, the Stroop task, and the lexical decision-making task (LDT). There is some concern that prolonged Trendelenburg positioning during laparoscopic colorectal surgery may cause POCD.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of time spent in the Trendelenburg position on cognitive function.

METHODS

Volunteers were placed in the Trendelenburg position for 3 hours and, then, supine for 30 minutes. Validated cognitive function tests including 1-, 2-, and 3-back tasks, Stroop test, and LDT were performed at baseline and every 30 minutes after Trendelenburg positioning. Cognitive decline was defined per the International Study of Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction trial: a decrease in accuracy from the volunteers’ baseline or an increase in response time from the volunteers’ baseline by >2 control group SDs.

RESULTS

We recruited 15 healthy volunteers (8 males, 7 females) with an average age of 69 years (range 57-81) and average body mass index of 27.7 kg/m2 (range 20.9-33). Accuracy remained within 2 SDs at all time points. An increase in response time did occur, and of 15 participants, 3 (20%) showed cognitive decline in the Trendelenburg position after 30 minutes, 4 (27%) after 1 hour, 5 (33%) after 90 minutes, 4 (27%) after 120 and 150 minutes, and 6 (40%) after 180 minutes. On moving to a supine position, 33% (5/15) participants showed cognitive decline.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study indicate that Trendelenburg positioning leads to cognitive decline. This may have implications for patients undergoing prolonged Trendelenburg positioning during laparoscopic colorectal surgery.
Benefits of Mobile Apps in Pain Management: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Thurnheer Simon E , Gravestock Isaac , Pichierri Giuseppe , Steurer Johann , Burgstaller Jakob M
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND

Pain is a common condition with a significant physical, psychosocial, and economic impact. Due to enormous progress in mobile device technology as well as the increase in smartphone ownership in the general population, mobile apps can be used to monitor patients with pain and support them in pain management.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this review was to assess the efficacy of smartphone or computer tablet apps in the management of patients with pain.

METHODS

In December 2017, a literature search was performed in the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane, and PsycINFO. In addition, a bibliography search was conducted. We included studies with at least 20 participants per arm that evaluated the effects of apps on smartphones or computer tablets on improvement in pain.

RESULTS

A total of 15 studies with 1962 patients met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 4 studies examined the effect of mobile apps on pain management in an in-clinic setting and 11 in an out-clinic setting. The majority of the original studies reported beneficial effects of the use of a pain app. Severity of pain decreased in most studies where patients were using an app compared with patients not using an app. Other outcomes, such as worst pain or quality of life showed improvements in patients using an app. Due to heterogeneity between the original studies—patient characteristics, app content, and study setting—a synthesis of the results by statistical methods was not performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Apps for pain management may be beneficial for patients, particularly in an out-clinic setting. Studies have shown that pain apps are workable and well liked by patients and health care professionals. There is no doubt that in the near future, mobile technologies will develop further. Medicine could profit from this development as indicated by our results, but there is a need for more scientific inputs. It is desirable to know which elements of apps or additional devices and tools may improve usability and help patients in pain management.
Del apogeo “lulista” a la destitución de Dilma: el devenir popular neodesarrollista en Brasil
Authors: Merino Gabriel Esteban
Published: June 2018

El presente trabajo analiza la articulación político-social y el esquema de poder gobernante en Brasil durante los gobiernos del PT. Se estudia cómo la articulación nacional popular neodesarrollista encabezada por el liderazgo de “Lula” tendrá una influencia decisiva en el Estado, en un contexto internacional favorable. Por otro lado, se pretende observar la crisis de la articulación lulista y caída del gobierno del PT, especialmente en relación a dos puntos de inflexión fundamentales: la modificación del escenario internacional, y la agudización de las contradicciones de la articulación nacional-popular neodesarrollista, en el marco de los límites de la dependencia.
Distribution and First Report of Parupeneus forsskali (Fourmanoir & Guézé, 1976) From North of Cyprus and Gulf of Antalya, Turkey
Authors: ÖZVAROL Yaşar , TATLISES Aysu
Published: June 2018

On 26 July 2017, 7 specimens of Parupeneus forsskali were caught at a depth 18 m in North Cyprus and a single specimen was caught at a depth 11 m, by trammel net, around pipeline charge system of marine aquarium in the gulf of Antalya, Turkey. Reports from different locations are pointed that the population of P. forsskali may be established in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.In recent years, as a result of the effect of global warming on the Mediterranean Sea, the temperature of the water increased. Introduction of new fish species is continuously change the composition of the fish fauna of the Mediterranean Sea (Turan and Ergüden, 2013). Up to recent years, there were known only 5 Mullidea family members (Upeneus pori (Por's goatfish) Ben-Tuvia and Golani, 1989, Upeneus moluccensis (Goldband goatfish) Bleeker, 1855, Mullus barbatus barbatus (Red mullet) Linnaeus, 1758, Mullus surmuletus (Surmullet) Linnaeus, 1758, Pseudupeneus prayensis (Cuvier, 1829) in the Mediterranean Sea (Bariche et al., 2013). By introducing Parupeneus forsskali (red Sea goatfish) Fourmanoir and Guézé, 1976 this number was increased to five.
Karadeniz’de Avlanan Tirsi Balığı (Alosa immaculata Bennett, 1835)’nın Yaş ve Boy Kompozisyonundan Büyüme ve Populasyon Parametrelerinin Tahmini
Authors: ÖZDEMİR Süleyman
Published: June 2018

Bu çalışmada
Orta Karadeniz kıyılarında avlanan tirsi (Alosa
immaculata) balıklarının boy ve yaş kompozisyonundan büyüme ve populasyon
parametreleri tahmin edilmiştir. Ekim 2011-Mayıs 2012 tarihleri arasında yürütülen
araştırmada boy kompozisyonu verileri için toplam 2265 adet balık, yaş tayini
için toplam 233
adet balık incelenmiştir. Elde edilen sonuçlara göre tirsi balığının ortalama boyu
32.8±0.11 cm, ortalama ağırlığı 58,1±1,52 g olarak boy ağırlık ilişkisi ise
W=0.0044L3.1494 şeklinde hesaplanmıştır. . Türün büyüme ve
populasyon parametreleri sırasıyla boy kompozisyonunda L∞ = 40.06
cm, K= 0.32 ve Z= 1.20, M= 0.51, F= 0.69, E= 0.57 olarak tahmin edilmiştir. Yaş
kompozisyonundan ise L∞ = 33.76 cm, K= 0.29 ve Z= 1.65, M= 0.52, F=
1.13, E= 0.65 değerleri tahmin edilmiştir. Pelajik balıkları için optimum işletme
oranı (E= 0.5) dikkate alındığında yaş ve boy kompozisyonundan elde edilen E değerine
göre Karadeniz’de tirsi balığı stoklarının üzerinde bir av
baskısı olduğu söylenebilir.