bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kırım Kongo kanamalı ateşi ile karışan Q ateşi olgusu
Authors: KINIKLI Sami , HATİPOĞLU Çiğdem Ataman , CESUR Salih , YÜKSEKKAYA Esra , BÜYÜKDEMİRCİ Ayşe
Published: August 2018

Q ateşi, Coxiella burnetii’nin neden olduğu zoonotik bir enfeksiyondur.
Başlıca enfeksiyon kaynağı sığır, koyun ve keçi gibi çiftlik hayvanlarıdır.
İnsanlara bulaş genellikle enfekte partiküllerin solunması, kontamine süt veya
süt ürünlerinin ağız yoluyla alınmasıyla olur. Q ateşi geniş bir yelpazede
klinik bulgularla ortaya çıkabilir. Akut Q ateşi kliniğinin genelde
asemptomatik veya hafif seyirli ateşli hastalık şeklinde olması nedeni ile akut
olgularının tanısı atlanabilir. Akut enfeksiyonlar sporadik veya bazen
salgınlar şeklinde ortaya cıkabilir. Ateşle birlikte pnömoni, hepatit veya
diğer hastalık bulgularıyla başvuran olgularda epidemiyolojik ilişki de varsa  Q ateşi ayırıcı tanıda akla gelmelidir. Kırım
Kongo kanamalı ateşi (KKKA) ile Q ateşi semptom, klinik ve laboratuvar
bulguları ile karışabilmektedir. Bu yazıda; Bolu ili ilçesinde yaşayan ve
hayvancılıkla uğraşan ateş, üşüme-titreme, baş ağrısı, göz
arkasında ağrı şikayetleri ile başvuran, Q ateşi tanısı konulan bir erkek hasta
sunuldu. Laboratuvar testlerinde; trombositopeni, transaminaz değerlerinde ve
CPK değerinde yükseklik olması nedeniyle başlangıçta KKKA ön tanısı konan hastada
KKKA için PZR ve serolojik testleri negatifti, 
Q ateşine yönelik istenen 
indirekt floresan antikor testinde Coxiella burnetii
IgG (Faz 2) 1/128 pozitif saptanması ile tanı konuldu.
Doksisiklin tedavisi başlanan hastanın klinik ve laboratuvar bulguları düzeldi.
Sonuç olarak, hayvancılıkla uğraşan, yüksek ateş, baş ağrısı
ve karaciğer enzim testlerinde yükseklik saptanan olgularda ayırıcı tanıda Q
ateşi de akılda tutulmalıdır.
Haller hücresi varyasyon sıklığı ve maksiller sinüzit ile ilişkisinin bilgisayarlı tomografi ile değerlendirilmesi
Authors: YILMAZSOY Yunus , ARSLAN Serdar
Published: August 2018

Amaç: Çalışmamızda sinonazal bölge
anatomik varyasyonlarından olan Haller hücresinin görülme sıklığını ve sinüzit
ile ilişkisini bilgisayarlı tomografi (BT) ile değerlendirilmesini amaçladık.Gereç ve Yöntem: Bolu İzzet Baysal Devlet Hastanesi’nde 1 Ocak 2017-30 Mayıs 2018
tarihleri arasında multislice (Toshiba) 16 kesitli BT ile çekilen sinüs BT
görüntüleri retrospektif olarak incelendi, Haller hücresinin görülme sıklığı
belirlendi. Maksiller sinüsdeki mukozal değişikliklerin değerlendirilmesinde Mc
Gay Lund sınıflandırması kullanıldı. Bulgular: Çalışmamıza dahil edilen 196 hastadan sadece bir hastada
herhangi bir varyasyon izlenmemiştir. Haller hücresi görülme sıklığı %15,8
olarak tespit edildi. Tüm hastalarda maksiller sinüzit görülme sıklığı ise %63,7
idi. Hastalarda Haller hücre varyasyonu bulunması ile aynı tarafta maksiller sinüzit
mevcut olması  arasında istatistiksel
olarak bağlantı tespit edilmedi. Haller hücre varyasyonu olan hastalarda aynı
yönde maksiller sinüzit bulunma oranı %54,9 iken kontrol grubunda %63,3 olarak
tespit edilmiştir. İki grup arasında da sinüzit varlığı açısından istatistiksel
olarak anlamlı fark saptanmadı.

Sonuç:
Paranazal
sinüslerin anatomisinin ayrıntılı bir şekilde ortaya konması hem tanı hem
tedavi açısından önem arz etmektedir.
Thermal Comfort Based Performance Evaluation and Modification of Spatial Air Movement by CFD in the case of Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff U. K.
Authors: Awan Usman , Iqbal Mamuna
Published: August 2018

Air movement in any space is one of the main factors of human thermal comfort for the occupants. It is also related with the type of activity in that space, clothing the occupants are wearing and the ambient air temperature of that particular space. Wales Millennium Centre (main theatre) is designed for multiple performances-based activities. In recent years, it has been observed that when the main curtain of a stage is lifted, there is always a huge down draught of air coming towards the front rows of seating area, making it uncomfortable for the spectators sitting there. In this paper, multiple Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulations are performed using WinAir4 software. The research found that most of the time the ventilation system was working well but noticed a higher temperature at the back-seating area of the hall. The paper suggests appropriate locations of inlets and outlets which should have been given to address this issue. The paper presents some viable solutions for the uncomfortable conditions that can be improved by providing more supply of air at the back-seating area and extract points at the top of the main ceiling, by providing cooling fins under the ceilings and keeping the stage air supply off as per the results of simulations discussed.
Decision-making processes when paramedics refer patients away from hospital: a scoping review.
Authors: Sheffield Kelly , O'Meara Peter , Verrinder Glenda
Published: August 2018

ABSTRACT

Title: Decision-making processes when paramedics refer patients away from hospital: a scoping review.

Background: Paramedic practice faces increasing service demand with decision-making and referral pathways needing to change.  Patients with low acuity clinical presentations do not necessarily require ambulance transport to an emergency department, and previous studies show alternative referral pathways can be effective, safe and efficient. Decision-making processes within the context of referring patients needs to be examined. 

Objectives: To examine the literature related to paramedic decision-making when referring patients to alternative care services, instead of transporting to hospital.

Methods: In this scoping review, the literature between 2005 and 2015 of service providers was examined.  Key search terms were developed to search five databases and Internet search engines.

Results: Four studies were specifically related to decision-making.   Research into the broader topic of paramedics referring patients to alternative medical services other than hospital emergency departments were located, and thirteen relevant studies were included in this review.

Conclusions:  Key factors including clinical experience, education, protocol use, referral processes, and holistic healthcare approaches all influence decision-making of paramedics when referring patients away from hospital.  Further research into these factors is required to better understand how they influence and interact with each other.
Improving Cardiac Arrest Care in Ireland
Authors: Hennelly David
Published: August 2018

The National Ambulance Service (NAS) serves a population of almost 4.6 million people in the Republic of Ireland, the service responds to over 300,000 ambulance calls each year.  The NAS employs over 1,600 staff across 100 locations and has a fleet of approximately 500 vehicles. Emergency Medical Services attempt resuscitation on just under 2000 Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest (OHCA) cases each year.

Over the past two years the National Ambulance service has engaged with both the country’s leading resuscitation experts and our international counterparts in a collaborative project focused on developing and expanding the National Ambulance Services response to out of hospital cardiac arrest. The One Life Project not only represents our commitment to improve standards of care it also represents our commitment to measure and publicly report on clinical outcomes of patients. 
Paramedic Transition into an Academic Role in Universities: A Demographic and Qualification Survey of Paramedic Academics in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Munro Graham , O'Meara Peter , Kenny Amanda
Published: August 2018

Abstract

Objectives

            To identify the demographic and qualification characteristics of paramedic academics holding teaching and research positions at universities in Australia and New Zealand offering entry-level undergraduate or postgraduate degree programs in paramedicine.

Methods

            A 17 item online normative internet survey was used to obtain demographic and qualification characteristics about the target group. The survey was divided into five categories: demographic data, professional qualifications, educational qualifications, learning and teaching experience, and level of academic skills. Data were collected over a two-month period in 2013 and then collated and reported utilising the capabilities of the Survey Monkey program.

Results

            Of the estimated 66 eligible participants, 30 responded to the survey, 70% were male, the average age when entering academia was 43 years, and the average age when initially entering paramedicine was 23 years. Two-thirds completed their paramedic training in Australia and New Zealand, with the other third training in the UK, US, or Canada. There was a wide-range of levels of training and qualification reported with three having a PhD on entering academia, while most had little to no experience in research, academic writing, and publication.

Conclusions

            Issues of the transference of cultural and professional capital from one community of practice (CoP) into another, the variance in the levels of academic qualifications amongst paramedics when entering academia, and the resources needed to mentor and educate a large majority of these new academics pose significant challenges to new academics and the universities employing them.

Key words: paramedicine, university, degree, transition, role
Toward an International Paramedic Research Agenda
Authors: Maguire Brian J , O'Meara Peter , Newton Andy
Published: August 2018

Around the world the emergency medical services (EMS) profession has made tremendous strides over recent decades. We have become more professional, have a rapidly growing proportion of paramedics who are university qualified, our practice has become more evidence-based, and a growing number of paramedics are completing graduate-level programs and going on to conduct their own research. As a profession we have much to celebrate when we consider these accomplishments.

In some ways we are also following in the footsteps of other professions that have developed along similar pathways. A century ago physicians were trained in hospital basements and practiced procedures that had little evidence to ensure their quality or effectiveness. A half century ago nurses were largely trained in hospital basements and again had little research to justify their practices. Members of those professions recognized that the only way out of the basement was through the university. Members of those and other health professions took it upon themselves to make a university degree a requirement to enter practice. They recognized that a university degree was a key requirement of professionalism. Today we could not imagine a physician without a university degree and almost all new nurses and allied health professionals are now graduates of university programs.
On shift simulation in aeromedical operations - making it work
Authors: Glasheen John , Regan Luke , Richmond Clare , Edwards Brydie , Burns Brian
Published: August 2018

Patient care in the prehospital and retrieval medicine (PHARM) environment presents many technical and non-technical challenges. Clinicians are frequently required to perform complex interventions in a time critical and resource limited setting. Intensive training is required prior to operational deployment, and ongoing training is vital to ensure optimal team performance in the delivery of high quality patient care. Regular simulation training with high situational fidelity is valuable in developing and maintaining excellence in PHARM. We describe the methods employed by two Australian aeromedical retrieval services to facilitate daily on shift simulation.
The Elephant in the Room (Clinical Image)
Authors: Alrashed Dhari , Fogarty Eoin
Published: August 2018

Packaging is an important part of transfer medicine. Appropriate packaging in a “layered” manner is widely accepted as a safer way to move patients who may have various cables or tubes attached.

In our practise we use modified ventilator airway tubing, approximately 0.5 metres in length with a slit down the longitudinal axis to contain these cables and/or tubes. This tubing has become colloquially known as “Elephant tubing”

This tubing is typically used to contain ECG wires and medication giving sets. The Oxygen saturation probe wires and one intravenous access is typically left out during the transfer process in order to be able to access same.

 
Paramedic assessment of frailty: An exploratory study of perceptions of frailty assessment tools
Authors: Harris Wayne , Lucas Peter Vincent , Eyles Helen , Parker Leigh
Published: August 2018

Introduction: Frailty is recognised as a significant variable in the health of older adults. Early identification by paramedics of those at risk of frailty may assist in timely entry to an appropriate clinical care pathway. Early referral to such pathways has been shown to improve patient outcomes and quality of life, as well as deliver economic benefits. To date, little research has been completed regarding assessment of frailty by paramedic professionals using validated assessment tools. The objective of this study was to determine paramedicine students’ perceptions of screening tools to facilitate assessment and knowledge of frailty of older adults. The Edmonton Frail Scale (EFS) and the Groningen Frailty Index (GFI) were determined suitable for this purpose.

Methods: The research adopted a mixed methods approach using a survey tool developed to gather both qualitative and quantitative data from students at the completion of a structured aged care clinical placement. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data identified key features of the tools, while a Likert-type scale was used to measure perspectives about the suitability of the tools for use in paramedic practice.

Results: Thirty-seven paramedicine students were invited to participate in the study. Thirteen were able to use both tools to conduct frailty assessments and submitted survey responses. Student perspectives indicated both the EFS and GFI are potentially suitable for paramedicine and as clinical learning tools regarding geriatric assessments. Median time to administer the tools was eight minutes for the EFS and ten minutes for the GFI.

Conclusion: Paramedicine students support a frailty assessment tool to assist clinical decision making regarding older adults. Further appraisal of validated frailty assessment tools by operational paramedics in a pre-hospital environment is warranted to determine absolute utility for Australian paramedics.
Post Stroke Infection and Management Difficulties: A Burning Issue
Authors: Chowdhury Mohammad Shah Jahirul Hoque
Published: August 2018

Abstract Not AvailableJournal of Science Foundation 2017;15(1):1-2
Factors Correlated with Postoperative Hospital Stay after Prophylactic Use of Metronidazole during Major Gynaecological Operation
Authors: Khatun Mahmuda , Sultana Rifat , Banu Dewan Sahida , Ashraf Rumana , Sultana Nasrin , Aktar Mst Nurun Nahar , Mondal Dipika Rani
Published: August 2018

Background: Prophylactic use of metronidazole prevents infection among the women undergone major gynaecological operations.Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to correlate post operative hospital stay with age, weight and duration of operation among the women with prophylactic use of metronidazole during the major gynaecological operation.Methodology: This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka from August 2002 to January 2003 for a period of six (6) months. All the women who were undergone major gynaecological operation at any age were selected as study population. Minor gynaecological operation cases were excluded from this study. The data were collected by face to face interview. The age, weight and duration of operation as well as type of operation were recorded.Result: The mean ± SD postoperative hospital stay for wound healing of group A and B patients were 8.24±2.44 (range 5 to 17) and 8.83±3.21 (range 5 to 20) days, respectively (p=0.226). It shows a positive correlation that is increasing age is significantly related (P<0.00l) to increase in hospital stay for wound healing in both group A and B patients. The correlation between weights of the patients with postoperative hospital stay for wound healing shows a positive correlation, that is, increasing weight is significantly related to increase in hospital stay for wound healing in both group A and B patients (p=0.0001).Conclusion: In conclusion age and weight of the patients as well as the duration of operation is positively correlated with the wound healing among the women who are under metronidazole prophylactic therapy.Journal of Science Foundation 2017;15(1):3-8
Intra-abdominal Testicular Seminoma in a Middle Aged Male: A Case Report
Authors: Alam Md Jahangir , Mohammad Din , Ahmed Farhad Uddin , Ara Rumi Farhad , Alam Md Mahe
Published: August 2018

Cryptorchidism is a common risk factor for the testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs). The risk of malignancy in an undescended testis is 10% with the highest risk in an intra-abdominal testis. It usually presents with non-specific symptoms so a complete systemic physical examination should not be neglected in an elderly patient with intra-abdominal mass. We here present a case of an intra-abdominal testicular seminoma in middle aged man as an asymptomatic abdominal mass.Journal of Science Foundation, January 2017;15(1):26-28
Socio-demographic Characteristics of Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases Women attended at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Dhaka
Authors: Khanum Tahamina , Ara Gulshan , Husna Umme Hafsa Zakiatul , Miah Mohammed Zubayer , Khanam Shafeya
Published: August 2018

Background: Women with pelvic inflammatory diseases can occur in different socio-demographic characteristics.Objectives: The purpose o f the present study was to see the socio-demographic characteristics of women presented with pelvic inflammatory diseases women.Methodology: The cross-sectional study has been carried out at the outpatient units of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital from January 2007 to June 2007 for a period of six (6) months. Women with the age group of 15 to 45 years presented with lower abdominal pain, tenderness, per vaginal discharge and cervical motion tenderness were included in this study. Women with fibroid uterus, uterovaginal prolapsed or cystocele was excluded from this study. The details of socio-demographic characteristics like the age, religion, social status, occupation, marital status and their husband information were taken.Result: The study was performed on 50 cases of which majority (50%) belonged to the age group of 26 to 35 years. Majority of the patients were housewife (82.0%). Among them 30% of the husbands occupation was driver. Maximum were from low socio-economic status (70.0%), illiterate (50.0%) and married single (80.0%).Conclusion: In conclusion majority of the women presented pelvic inflammatory diseases are in reproductive age group illiterate housewife.Journal of Science Foundation 2017;15(2):31-35
Study of the Importance of National Identity in the Development of Corporate Social Responsibility Practices: A Multivariate Vision
Authors: Amor-Esteban Víctor , Galindo-Villardón Mª-Purificación , David Fátima
Published: August 2018

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has the characteristic of being a truly global idea, and its global features could give rise to the assumption that national dynamics are secondary or even irrelevant. However, while CSR policies may be of a global nature, recent research suggests that lasting national institutions and distinctive ideological traditions determine corporate decisions. In this study, we analysed the 2004–2014 decade from a panel data sample of 6600 observations from 600 large, internationally listed companies, and based on multivariate statistical methods, we contrasted the relevance of national identity in the sustainable behaviour of companies with the discovery of important national discrepancies, which corroborates that the country of origin of companies offers a series of facilities and barriers for the development of CSR practices. Companies, depending on different pressures and expectations, care about what is important in their own country. Thus, the corporations coming from Nordic countries—recognised as welfare states—are presented as the leaders in sustainable behaviour, highlighting in the social aspect the proper treatment of their employees and interest groups. They are followed a step below by companies whose country of origin is located in Southern Europe, which prioritise environmental reports. Organisations whose headquarters are centralized in North American countries are in a very delayed position, especially in environmental performance, giving greater preference to ethical issues.
Precision Manufacturing of Patterned Beryllium Bronze Leaf Springs via Chemical Etching
Authors: Li Rui-Jun , Wang Peng-Yu , Li Dan-Dong , Fan Kuang-Chao , Liu Fang-Fang , Chen Li-Juan , Huang Qiang-Xian
Published: August 2018

Patterned leaf springs made of a beryllium bronze sheet are the key components of certain micro/nano contact probes. The accuracy of the probe is determined based on the precision of the formed pattern. However, a traditional manufacturing method using wire-electrode discharge machining (wire-EDM) is subject to poor tolerance at the sharp edges and corners. In addition, high energy consumption and costs are incurred for complex patterns. This paper presents a new chemical etching method for the manufacturing of a patterned leaf spring with high precision. Both the principle and process are introduced. Taguchi experiments were designed and conducted and the optimal process parameters were obtained based on the mean value and a variance analysis. Four V-shaped and some other complex patterned leaf springs were successfully fabricated. Comparison experiments concerning the characteristic parameters of the leaf spring were also conducted. The experimental results reveal that the patterned leaf springs manufactured through this method are much better than those achieved using wire-EDM. This manufacturing method can be used to fabricate different high-precision patterned leaf springs or membranes for coordinate measuring machines (CMM) probes and other measuring equipment.
JSSTR: A Joint Server Selection and Traffic Routing Algorithm for the Software-Defined Data Center
Authors: Cui Yunhe , Yan Lianshan , Qian Qing , Xing Huanlai , Li Saifei
Published: August 2018

Server load balancing technology makes services highly functional by distributing the incoming user requests to different servers. Thus, it plays a key role in data centers. However, most of the current server load balancing schemes are designed without considering the impact on the network. More specifically, when using these schemes, the server selection and routing path calculation are usually executed sequentially, which may result in inefficient use of network resources or even cause some issues in the network. As an emerging architecture, Software-Defined Networking (SDN) provides new solutions to overcome these shortcomings. Therefore, taking advantages of SDN, this paper proposes a Joint Server Selection and Traffic Routing algorithm (JSSTR) based on improving the Shuffle Frog Leaping Algorithm (SFLA) to achieve high network utilization, network load balancing and server load balancing. Evaluation results validate that the proposed algorithm can significantly improve network efficiency and balance the network load and server load.
In-Cabin Vehicle Carbon Monoxide Concentrations under Different Ventilation Settings
Authors: Dirks Kim , Talbot Nicholas , Salmond Jennifer , Costello Seosamh
Published: August 2018

This paper explores the impact of choice of ventilation setting (“window open”, “new (external) air” and “recirculate”) on in-vehicle carbon monoxide exposures for commuters travelling by car at different times of the day (morning, midday, and evening) and different seasons (warm and cool) in Auckland, New Zealand. Three near-identical vehicles travelled in close proximity to each other on the same three “loops” out and into the city three times a day, each with a different ventilation setting. Concentrations of carbon monoxide were recorded using portable monitors placed inside each of the vehicles. The season was not found to be a significant factor. However, mean concentrations varied across ventilation settings by the time of day, typically peaking during the morning commute. The mean concentrations were significantly different between ventilation settings, with the recirculate setting found to result in a higher in-vehicle concentration than either new air or windows open but also heavily dependent on the initial in-vehicle concentration. However, this setting was the most effective at avoiding concentration spikes, especially when idling at intersections; an isolated peak event reaching 170 ppm was observed with the “new air” setting when following immediately behind an old, poorly-tuned, and visibly-emitting vehicle. This study suggests that having the windows open is the best setting for maintaining low in-cabin air pollution levels but that recirculate should be used in anticipation of congested conditions.
Structural Evolution of Highly Active Multicomponent Catalysts for Selective Propylene Oxidation
Authors: Sprenger Paul , Sheppard Thomas L , Suuronen Jussi-Petteri , Gaur Abhijeet , Benzi Federico , Grunwaldt Jan-Dierk
Published: August 2018

Multicomponent Bi-Mo-Fe-Co oxide catalysts prepared via flame spray pyrolysis were tested for selective propylene oxidation, showing high conversion (>70%) and selectivity (>85%) for acrolein and acrylic acid at temperatures of 330 °C. During extended time-on-stream tests (5–7 days), the catalysts retained high activity while undergoing diverse structural changes. This was evident on: (a) the atomic scale, using powder X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy; and (b) the microscopic scale, using synchrotron X-ray nanotomography, including full-field holotomography, scanning X-ray fluorescence, and absorption contrast imaging. On the atomic scale, sintering, coke formation, growth, and transformation of active and spectator components were observed. On the microscopic scale, the catalyst life cycle was studied at various stages through noninvasive imaging of a ~50-µm grain with 100-nm resolution. Variation of catalyst synthesis parameters led to the formation of notably different structural compositions after reaction. Mobile bismuth species formed agglomerates of several hundred nanometres and segregated within the catalyst interior. This appeared to facilitate the formation of different active phases and induce selectivity for acrolein and acrylic acid. The combined multiscale approach here is generally applicable for deconvolution of complex catalyst systems. This is an important step to bridge model two-component catalysts with more relevant but complex multicomponent catalysts.
In-Situ Kinetic Investigation of Calcium Aluminate Formation
Authors: Salasin John , Rawn Claudia
Published: August 2018

Rapid in-situ non-ambient X-ray diffraction represents a powerful tool for characterizing the evolution of crystalline materials in real time. The calcium aluminate system and formation of Ca12Al14O33 (C12A7) is particularly sensitive to processing conditions. This report characterizes the kinetic pathways to thermodynamic equilibrium as a function of atmosphere (ambient, dry, and vacuum) and reactant heterogeneity (as-received, milled, and sol-gel reactants). When reactants are heterogenous (as-received and milled), intermediary phases of Ca3Al2O6 (C3A) and CaAl2O4 (CA) are observed as the route to C12A7 formation and Ca5Al6O14 (C5A3) is only observed as a decomposition product of C12A7. When reactants are heterogenous, C12A7 is only thermodynamically favorable under ambient conditions due to the stability provided by hydration. When reactants are homogenous (sol-gel), direct crystallization of C12A7 from an amorphous precursor is observed at low temperature regardless of atmosphere defining C12A7 as the kinetic equilibrium. These findings accurately define the heterogenous formation pathways and report for the first time the formation of C12A7 under a carbon-free vacuum environment.
Electrochemical Performance of Few-Layer Graphene Nano-Flake Supercapacitors Prepared by the Vacuum Kinetic Spray Method
Authors: Mohammed Mohaned Mohammed Mahmoud , Chun Doo-Man
Published: August 2018

A few-layer graphene nano-flake thin film was prepared by an affordable vacuum kinetic spray method at room temperature and modest low vacuum conditions. In this economical approach, graphite microparticles, a few layers thick, are deposited on a stainless-steel substrate to form few-layer graphene nano-flakes using a nanoparticle deposition system (NPDS). The NPDS allows for a large area deposition at a low cost and can deposit various metal oxides at room temperature and low vacuum conditions. The morphology and structure of the deposited thin films are alterable by changing the scan speed of the deposition. These changes were verified by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy. The electrochemical performances of the supercapacitors, fabricated using the deposited films and H3PO4–PVA gel electrolytes with different concentrations, were measured using a 2-electrode cell. The electrochemical performance was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic Charge–discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The proposed affordable fabricated supercapacitors show a high areal capacitance and a small equivalent series resistance.
Advanced Bio-Inspired System for Noninvasive Cuff-Less Blood Pressure Estimation from Physiological Signal Analysis
Authors: Rundo Francesco , Ortis Alessandro , Battiato Sebastiano , Conoci Sabrina
Published: August 2018

Blood Pressure (BP) is one of the most important physiological indicators that provides useful information in the field of health-care monitoring. Blood pressure may be measured by both invasive and non-invasive methods. A novel algorithmic approach is presented to estimate systolic and diastolic blood pressure accurately in a way that does not require any explicit user calibration, i.e., it is non-invasive and cuff-less. The approach herein described can be applied in a medical device, as well as in commercial mobile smartphones by an ad hoc developed software based on the proposed algorithm. The authors propose a system suitable for blood pressure estimation based on the PhotoPlethysmoGraphy (PPG) physiological signal sampling time-series. Photoplethysmography is a simple optical technique that can be used to detect blood volume changes in the microvascular bed of tissue. It is non-invasive since it takes measurements at the skin surface. In this paper, the authors present an easy and smart method to measure BP through careful neural and mathematical analysis of the PPG signals. The PPG data are processed with an ad hoc bio-inspired mathematical model that estimates systolic and diastolic pressure values through an innovative analysis of the collected physiological data. We compared our results with those measured using a classical cuff-based blood pressure measuring device with encouraging results of about 97% accuracy.
The Contribution of Synchrotron Light for the Characterization of Atmospheric Mineral Dust in Deep Ice Cores: Preliminary Results from the Talos Dome Ice Core (East Antarctica)
Authors: Baccolo Giovanni , Cibin Giannantonio , Delmonte Barbara , Hampai Dariush , Marcelli Augusto , Di Stefano Elena , Macis Salvatore , Maggi Valter
Published: August 2018

The possibility of finding a stratigraphically intact ice sequence with a potential basal age exceeding one million years in Antarctica is giving renewed interest to deep ice coring operations. But the older and deeper the ice, the more impactful are the post-depositional processes that alter and modify the information entrapped within ice layers. Understanding in situ post-depositional processes occurring in the deeper part of ice cores is essential to comprehend how the climatic signals are preserved in deep ice, and consequently how to construct the paleoclimatic records. New techniques and new interpretative tools are required for these purposes. In this respect, the application of synchrotron light to microgram-sized atmospheric dust samples extracted from deep ice cores is extremely promising. We present here preliminary results on two sets of samples retrieved from the Talos Dome Antarctic ice core. A first set is composed by samples from the stratigraphically intact upper part of the core, the second by samples retrieved from the deeper part of the core that is still undated. Two techniques based on synchrotron light allowed us to characterize the dust samples, showing that mineral particles entrapped in the deepest ice layers display altered elemental composition and anomalies concerning iron geochemistry, besides being affected by inter-particle aggregation.
Computer Aided Classification of Neuroblastoma Histological Images Using Scale Invariant Feature Transform with Feature Encoding
Authors: Gheisari Soheila , Catchpoole Daniel R. , Charlton Amanda , Melegh Zsombor , Gradhand Elise , Kennedy Paul J.
Published: August 2018

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid malignancy in early childhood. Optimal management of neuroblastoma depends on many factors, including histopathological classification. Although histopathology study is considered the gold standard for classification of neuroblastoma histological images, computers can help to extract many more features some of which may not be recognizable by human eyes. This paper, proposes a combination of Scale Invariant Feature Transform with feature encoding algorithm to extract highly discriminative features. Then, distinctive image features are classified by Support Vector Machine classifier into five clinically relevant classes. The advantage of our model is extracting features which are more robust to scale variation compared to the Patched Completed Local Binary Pattern and Completed Local Binary Pattern methods. We gathered a database of 1043 histologic images of neuroblastic tumours classified into five subtypes. Our approach identified features that outperformed the state-of-the-art on both our neuroblastoma dataset and a benchmark breast cancer dataset. Our method shows promise for classification of neuroblastoma histological images.
Random Spacing between Metal Tree Electrodeposits in Linear DLA Arrays
Authors: Tannous Jaad , Anouti Lina , Sultan Rabih
Published: August 2018

When we examine the random growth of trees along a linear alley in a rural area, we wonder what governs the location of those trees, and hence the distance between adjacent ones. The same question arises when we observe the growth of metal electro-deposition trees along a linear cathode in a rectangular film of solution. We carry out different sets of experiments wherein zinc trees are grown by electrolysis from a linear graphite cathode in a 2D film of zinc sulfate solution toward a thick zinc metal anode. We measure the distance between adjacent trees, calculate the average for each set, and correlate the latter with probability and entropy. We also obtain a computational image of the grown trees as a function of parameters such as the cell size, number of particles, and sticking probability. The dependence of average distance on concentration is studied and assessed.
On the Application of Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) for In-Cylinder Flow Analysis
Authors: El-Adawy Mohammed , Heikal Morgan R. , A. Aziz A. Rashid , Adam Ibrahim Khalil , Ismael Mhadi A. , Babiker Mohammed E. , Baharom Masri B. , Firmansyah  , Abidin Ezrann Zharif Zainal
Published: August 2018

Proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) is a coherent structure identification technique based on either measured or computed data sets. Recently, POD has been adopted for the analysis of the in-cylinder flows inside internal combustion engines. In this study, stereoscopic particle image velocimetry (Stereo-PIV) measurements were carried out at the central vertical tumble plane inside an engine cylinder to acquire the velocity vector fields for the in-cylinder flow under different experimental conditions. Afterwards, the POD analysis were performed firstly on synthetic velocity vector fields with known characteristics in order to extract some fundamental properties of the POD technique. These data were used to reveal how the physical properties of coherent structures were captured and distributed among the POD modes, in addition to illustrate the difference between subtracting and non-subtracting the ensemble average prior to conducting POD on datasets. Moreover, two case studies for the in-cylinder flow at different valve lifts and different pressure differences across the air intake valves were presented and discussed as the effect of both valve lifts and pressure difference have not been investigated before using phase-invariant POD analysis. The results demonstrated that for repeatable flow pattern, only the first mode was sufficient to reconstruct the physical properties of the flow. Furthermore, POD analysis confirmed the negligible effect of pressure difference and subsequently the effect of engine speed on flow structures.
Estimation and Uncertainty of the Mixing Effects on Scots Pine—European Beech Productivity from National Forest Inventories Data
Authors: Condés Sonia , Sterba Hubert , Aguirre Ana , Bielak Kamil , Bravo-Oviedo Andrés , Coll Lluís , Pach Maciej , Pretzsch Hans , Vallet Patrick , Del Río Miren
Published: August 2018

An increasing amount of research is focusing on comparing productivity in monospecific versus mixed stands, although it is difficult to reach a general consensus as mixing effects differ both in sign (over-yielding or under-yielding) and magnitude depending on species composition as well as on site and stand conditions. While long-term experimental plots provide the best option for disentangling the mixing effects, these datasets are not available for all the existing mixtures nor do they cover large gradients of site factors. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects and uncertainties of tree species mixing on the productivity of Scots pine–European beech stands along the gradient of site conditions in Europe, using models developed from National and Regional Forest Inventory data. We found a positive effect of pine on beech basal area growth, which was slightly greater for the more humid sites. In contrast, beech negatively affected pine basal area growth, although the effects switched to positive in the more humid sites. However, the uncertainty analysis revealed that the effect on pine at mid- and more humid sites was not-significant. Our results agree with studies developed from a European transect of temporal triplets in the same pine–beech mixtures, confirming the suitability of these datasets and methodology for evaluating mixing effects at large scale.
Anticipate Manning’s Coefficient in Meandering Compound Channels
Authors: Mohanta Abinash , Patra Kanhu Charan , Sahoo Bibhuti Bhusan
Published: August 2018

Estimating Manning’s roughness coefficient ( n ) is one of the essential factors in predicting the discharge in a stream. Present research work is focused on prediction of Manning’s n in meandering compound channels by using the Group Method of Data Handling Neural Network (GMDH-NN) approach. The width ratio ( α ) , relative depth ( β ) , sinuosity ( s ) , Channel bed slope ( S o ) , and meander belt width ratio ( ω ) are specified as input parameters for the development of the model. The performance of GMDH-NN is evaluated with two different machine learning techniques, namely the support vector regression (SVR) and multivariate adaptive regression spline (MARS) with various statistical measures. Results indicate that the proposed GMDH-NN model predicts the Manning’s n satisfactorily as compared to the MARS and SVR model. This GMDH-NN approach can be useful for practical implementation as the prediction of Manning’s coefficient and subsequently discharge through Manning’s equation in the compound meandering channels are found to be quite adequate.
Perceived Neighbourhood Problems over Time and Associations with Adiposity
Authors: Ellaway Anne , Dundas Ruth , Olsen Jonathan R. , Shiels Paul G.
Published: August 2018

There is growing interest in understanding which aspects of the local environment influence obesity. Using data from the longitudinal West of Scotland Twenty-07 study (n = 2040) we examined associations between residents’ self-reported neighbourhood problems, measured over a 13-year period, and nurse-measured body weight and size (body mass index, waist circumference, waist–hip ratio) and percentage body fat. We also explored whether particular measures such as abdominal obesity, postulated as a marker for stress, were more strongly related to neighbourhood conditions. Using life course models adjusted for sex, cohort, household social class, and health behaviours, we found that the accumulation of perceived neighbourhood problems was associated with percentage body fat. In cross-sectional analyses, the strongest relationships were found for contemporaneous measures of neighbourhood conditions and adiposity. When analyses were conducted separately by gender, perceived neighbourhood stressors were strongly associated with central obesity measures (waist circumference, waist–hip ratio) among both men and women. Our findings indicate that chronic neighbourhood stressors are associated with obesity. Neighbourhood environments are modifiable, and efforts should be directed towards improving deleterious local environments to reduce the prevalence of obesity.
Mature or Emerging? The Impact of Treatment-Related Internet Health Information Seeking on Patients’ Trust in Physicians
Authors: Zhang Runtong , Lu Xinyi , Wu Wen , Shang Xiaopu , Liu Manlu
Published: August 2018

Years of clinical trials have proven the maturity and safety of certain treatments, however, some of these mature treatments may not be highly effective. Several treatments have emerged through technological innovations, but their long-term safety, efficacy, and adverse effects remain unknown. At present, many patients seek information related to their treatments on the Internet, which may impact their attitudes towards different treatments and their trust in physicians. In this study, a research model was developed to examine how patients’ trust in their physicians is influenced by related online information on mature or emerging treatments. The hypotheses were tested using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modelling (SEM). A total of 336 valid responses were collected through an online survey. Mature treatments related health information was found to significantly improve patients’ trust. Thus, physicians should pay more attention to mature treatments, and encourage their patients to seek related information online. Moreover, the quality of online information should be developed further to increase patients’ satisfaction. Physicians should also consider their patients’ psychological safety in communication with patients to strengthen their trust.
The Human Right to Water and Unconventional Energy
Authors: Palmer Robert , Short Damien , Auch Walter
Published: August 2018

Access to water, in sufficient quantities and of sufficient quality is vital for human health. The United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (in General Comment 15, drafted 2002) argued that access to water was a condition for the enjoyment of the right to an adequate standard of living, inextricably related to the right to the highest attainable standard of health, and thus a human right. On 28 July 2010 the United Nations General Assembly declared safe and clean drinking water and sanitation a human right essential to the full enjoyment of life and all other human rights. This paper charts the international legal development of the right to water and its relevance to discussions surrounding the growth of unconventional energy and its heavy reliance on water. We consider key data from the country with arguably the most mature and extensive industry, the USA, and highlight the implications for water usage and water rights. We conclude that, given the weight of testimony of local people from our research, along with data from scientific literature, non-governmental organization (NGO) and other policy reports, that the right to water for residents living near fracking sites is likely to be severely curtailed. Even so, from the data presented here, we argue that the major issue regarding water use is the shifting of the resource from society to industry and the demonstrable lack of supply-side price signal that would demand that the industry reduce or stabilize its water demand per unit of energy produced. Thus, in the US context alone, there is considerable evidence that the human right to water will be seriously undermined by the growth of the unconventional oil and gas industry, and given its spread around the globe this could soon become a global human rights issue.
A Portfolio Analysis of Culturally Tailored Trials to Address Health and Healthcare Disparities
Authors: Torres-Ruiz Marisa , Robinson-Ector Kaitlynn , Attinson Dionna , Trotter Jamie , Anise Ayodola , Clauser Steven
Published: August 2018

In 2010, Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) was authorized by Congress to improve the quality and relevance of evidence available to help patients, caregivers, employers, insurers, and policy makers make better-informed health decisions. We conducted a qualitative analysis of behavioral health trials in the PCORI Addressing Disparities portfolio to examine cultural tailoring strategies across the following priority populations: racial and ethnic minorities, rural populations, people with low-income or low socioeconomic status, individuals with disabilities, people with low health literacy, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) communities. The Common Strategies for Enhancing Cultural Appropriateness model was used to examine cultural tailoring strategies within trials. We hypothesized increased intersectionality within a patient population at risk for disparities would correlate with the dosage and type of cultural tailoring strategies applied. Thirty-three behavioral health trials applied cultural tailoring strategies and a majority of trials (n = 30) used three or more strategies. Trends in cultural tailoring were associated with certain racial and ethnic groups; however, increased use of tailoring was not associated with the number of priority populations included in a trial. The PCORI Addressing Disparities portfolio demonstrates how a range of cultural tailoring strategies are used, within comparative clinical effectiveness research trials, to address the needs and intersectionality of patients to reduce health and healthcare disparities.