bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Karakter Agronomi Jagung Manis Varietas Sugar 75 Akibat Perlakuan Pupuk Kandang Ayam dan Kalium
Authors: Yusuf N Muhammad
Published: December 2018

Penelitian ini dilaksanakan pada bulan September hingga November 2012 dengan tujuan untuk mengkaji pengaruh aplikasi pupuk kandang ayam dan kalium terhadap karakter agronomi jagung manis. Model rancangan yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Rancangan Acak Kelompok (RAK) faktorial yang terdiri dari 2 faktor yaitu aplikasi pupuk kandang ayam (A) sebagai faktor pertama yang terdiri dari 4 taraf yaitu A0 (0 Kg/ha), A1 (10 Kg/ha),A2 (15 Kg/ha) dan A3 (20 Kg/ha). Faktor kedua yaitu aplikasi pupuk Kalium (K) yang terdiri dari K0 (0 Kg K2O/ha), K1 (90 Kg K2O/ha), K2 (120 Kg K2O/ha), dan K3 (150 Kg K2O/ha). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa aplikasi pupuk kandang ayam dan kalium tidak berpengaruh nyata terhadap karakter agronomi jagung manis
Efek Ketebalan Casing dan Ketebalan Media Terhadap Hasil Jamur Merang (Volvariella volvaceae)
Authors: Rosnina A G , Dewi Elvira Sari , Wahyudi Nanda
Published: December 2018

The mushroom in the Acehnese language is called the bowl/addy straw mushroom (Volvariella volvaceae) including the most well known fungi among several species of mushrooms cultivated in Indonesia. The purpose of this research is to study the effect of the thickness of the casing and the composition of the media on the yield of mushroom (Volvariella volvaceae) using a Factorial Randomized Design with three replications. The first factor is the composition of the media and the second factor is the thickness of the casing. Data analysis was done by using SAS V9.12 software and advanced test with Duncan test at 5% level. This experiment showed that there is a significant effect on the interaction between the treatment of the media composition and the thickness treatment of the casing (K1C1 and K0C1) on the head body weight per harvest period, and there is no interaction with other variables. While the composition of the media singularly significant effect on the length of the fruit body and the number of fruit body in the treatment of the composition of oil palm empty bunches + lime + bran + cornflour (K1). In other variables, although statistically not yet showing the difference, but on average it appears that the medium of oil palm empty bunches + lime + bran + cornflour (K1) has the frequency of harvest, fruit body diameter, fruit body length and total body weight and fruit weight is higher than the treatment others. While the average appearance of mushroom pin head of the highest value is in treatment (K0). Average treatment without casing (C0) in addition to affect the body length of the fruit (fruting body) also gives the highest value on the appearance of pin head (going to fruit body), harvest frequency, body diameter. While the appearance of the pin head, the number of fruit body and body weight of mushroom fruit perang has the highest value on the 5 cm thickness casing treatment (C1)
HASIL DAN MUTU JAGUNG MANIS (ZEA MAYS SACCHARATA STURT) DENGAN PERLAKUAN PUPUK KANDANG AYAM DAN KALIUM
Authors: N Muhammad Yusuf
Published: December 2018

The aim of this research was to know the effect of chicken manure and potassium on the yield and quality of sweet corn. The research used a Randomized Block Design Factorial with 2 factors and 3 replications. The first factor is chicken manure: A0 (0 Kg/ha), A1 (10 Kg/ha), A2 (15 Kg/ha) and A3 (20 Kg/ha). The second one is potassium fertilizer: K0 (0 Kg K2O/ha), K1 (90 Kg K2O/ha),K2 (120 Kg K2O/ha), and K3 (150 Kg K2O/ha). The result research showed a not significant increased in the yield and quality of sweet corn. The combination of treatment A0K2 gave the best yield and quality.
Respon Naungan Terhadap Pertumbuhan Dua Varietas Nilam (Pogostemon cablin Benth.)
Authors: Faizin Rusdi , Susila Putra
Published: December 2018

Tanaman Nilam membutuhkan cahaya yang relatif sedikit, terutama pada awal pertumbuhan setek tanaman. Untuk mejamin pertumbuhan bibit tanaman nilam perlu diberi  pelindung, baik  pelindung dari tanaman maupun pelindung buatan. Intensitas  cahaya yang rendah mampu meningkatkan parameter pertumbuhan tanaman nilam. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh naungan terhadap pertumbuhan nilam varietas Tapak Tuan, dan varietas Lhokseumawe. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di kebun percobaan Fakultas Pertanian Universitas Teuku Umar Meulaboh Kabupaten Aceh Barat pada September 2016  s/d April 2017. Bahan yang digunakan yaitu stek tanaman nilam, paranet 25% (75% cahaya  diterima), paranet 50% (50% cahaya diterima), dan tanpa paranet. Pupuk yang digunakan adalah, pupuk organik, Urea, SP36 dan KCl, zat perangsang tumbuh yaitu grow tone. Penelitian ini menggunakan rancangan petak terpisah (split plot design). Petak utama adalah naungan dan anak petak adalah varietas nilam yaitu varietas Tapaktuan dan varietas Lhokseumawe. Adapun parameter yang diamati yaitu tinggi tanaman, diameter pangkal batang, jumlah cabang, jumlah daun dan luas daun. Pemberian naungan 50% memberi pengaruh terhadap tinggi tanaman, diameter pangkal batang, jumlah daun dan luas daun. Sedangkan varietas Lhokseumawe menunjukkan peningkatan pertambahan tinggi tanaman, diameter pangkal batang, jumlah cabang, jumlah daun dan luas daun.
The NHS/HE Forum
Authors: Ayris Paul , Teague Malcolm
Published: December 2018

This paper discusses the formation of the NHS-HE

Forum by Professor Roland Rosner in 200 I . It looks

at the aims and objectives of the Forum and maps

current progress. The second part of the paper looks

particularly at the NHS-HE Procurement Group and

the later JISC NHS-HE Procurement Group, which are

part of the Forum. These groupings have been partially

successful in conducting joint procurement activity

across the NHS and HE sectors. The publication of Dr

lan Gibson's Parliamentary Report Scientific Publications:

Free for All? is seminal in progressing this joint acrivity.

As of I February 2006, joint membership of the Public

Library of Science has been achieved, but one joint

procurement activity of commercial content has failed.

Further joint procurement is planned, along with a

mapping study of procurement activities and work on

an Athens Account Linking Project. The library and

informatics research componenrs are coming to the

fore with the use of a community-wide survey to

establish the current situation and future plans for

NHS-HE network connectivity and similarly the

Mapping Study of Procurement Practices in the NHS

and HE for content such as e-journals. This is moving

to a more systematic approach than previously. The

attempted joint procurement of selected journals has

two joint aims: to support both research and clinical

practice in the NHS and HE.
Copyright Literacy in the UK: a survey of librarians and other cultural heritage sector professionals
Authors: Morrison Chris , Secker Jane
Published: December 2018

Based on a survey of UK library and information professionals and those who work in the cultural heritage sector, carried out in December 2014, this research sought to examine the levels of copyright ‘literacy’. The survey aimed to obtain responses from all sectors, however most responses were received from academic libraries. The research examined their knowledge of national and international copyright issues as well as copyright policies at an institutional level. The survey also explored the need for copyright education for new and existing professionals and suggested topics for inclusion in training activities. The findings suggest that levels of knowledge amongst UK professionals are higher than those in other countries who participated in the first phase of the project. UK institutions are also more likely to have a copyright policy and an individual with responsibility for copyright. The results should be of interest to library managers, library educators and those with responsibility for staff training.
Reducing Book Theft at University Libraries
Authors: Mansfield Daren Lee Antony
Published: December 2018

After the local press reported how a student stole books from the University Library and sold them on the online marketplace, eBay, it became clear that hardly any research had been undertaken into book theft at university libraries. This article puts forward some valuable recommendations that could be practically implemented, mindful of the dilemma of the juxtaposed needs of social inclusion and stock security.
Researching skills development: students as partners in this process
Authors: Campbell Casey Samantha , MacCallum Janis , Robertson Lynn , Strachan Lewis
Published: December 2018

Many employers report that newly qualified graduates lack key skills necessary for success in the workplace. Although variable, many lack general ‘transferable’ or ‘soft’ skills including communication and teamworking. Staff at Edinburgh Napier University have sought to address this using the Skills Passport tool. The main element of the Skills Passport is the Skills Evidence Evaluation Record (SEER), which encourages students to document and reflect on their skills throughout their time at university in preparation for employment.The purpose of this study was to explore students’ awareness of, and attitudes towards, their own skills development. Two final year students were recruited to the project and collected data from first to fourth year students via a questionnaire they designed to gather data about the Skills Passport and skills development as part of their final year project. In addition, an employer focus group and individual interviews gathered the thoughts of employers regarding graduates’ skills sets and the skills important to them as employers.Students were aware that transferable skills are highly desirable, and that extracurricular activities are important; they become increasingly concerned about their skills development as they progress through their studies. These results suggest that students are aware of and are willing to invest extra time in their skills development, but that they require further support from the institution in order to be more confident about future employment prospects.
Residential Meditation Retreats: Their Role in Contemplative Practice and Significance for Psychological Research
Authors: King Brandon , Conklin Quinn , Zanesco Anthony Paul , Saron Clifford
Published: December 2018

Contemporary investigations of mindfulness and meditation have predominately emphasized the short-term effects of brief inductions or standardized, multi-week interventions in people with little to no prior meditation experience. Considerably less is known about the effects of continued or intensive meditation practice as proficiency and expertise are acquired over time. In this article, we describe the form and function of residential retreats, an understudied class of meditation intervention that holds promise for bridging this gap in the empirical literature. We outline a number of design features that distinguish retreats from other meditation-based interventions, and highlight their utility for informing functional and developmental perspectives on meditation, cognition, health, and well-being.
Improvement of performance of short term electricity demand model with meteorological parameters
Authors: Chapagain Kamal , Soto Tomonori , Kittipiyakul Somasak
Published: December 2018

The accuracy of short term electricity demand forecasting is essential for operation and trading activities on energy market. This paper considers a parsimonious forecasting model to explain the importance of sophisticated weather parameters for hourly electricity demand forecasting. Temperature is the major factor that directly influence electricity demand, but what about the affect of other weather factors such as relative humidity, wind speed etc. on short term electricity demand forecasting, is the prime research question and this paper analyzed it quantitatively. We demonstrate three different multiple linear models including auto-regressive moving average ARMA (2,6) models with and without some exogenous weather variables to compare with performance for Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan. Since, Bayesian approach is used to estimate the weight of each variables with Gibbs sampling, it generates the weight of coefficients in terms of distribution as our interest. The performance of each models for complete one year out sample prediction shows that the average improvement of hourly forecast by 1 to 2 % can be achieve by including such weather factors.
The power to consent: Indigenous peoples, states, and development projects
Authors: Leydet Dominique
Published: December 2018

The principle of free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) has become increasingly important in Indigenous peoples’ rights discourse. But continuing debates over the meaning of consent show the need for further clarification. In Part I of the article, I give a brief description of consent’s ‘standard grammar’ as developed in other areas of Western legal and ethical discourse to clarify what those who use the language of consent within that tradition commit themselves to, if they are to do so correctly. I also highlight the features that explain why consent has the potential to diminish coercion in relations of deep asymmetry. I argue that this potential is not related to the existence of an ‘absolute’ veto but, rather, to the specific way in which consent structures the interactions between the parties. In Part II, I turn to the Canadian context and the duty to consult developed by the Supreme Court of Canada. I make two main arguments: first, I show that that language is importantly different from consent and, second, I argue that though the Court in Tsilqoth’in Nation uses consent in a way that is closer to the standard grammar, the significance of this move remains limited. In Part III, I turn toward the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples to assess whether it presents a better framework for the fulfilment of consent’s promise. I argue that not only is it possible to interpret the Declaration as formulating a conception of consent that follows broadly the standard grammar but also that this reading best fits the Declaration’s basic purposes. However, to develop a functional conception of FPIC, we need to face a challenge for which the grammar of consent has little answer: the often-contested character of Indigenous rights. I conclude by sketching three possible responses to that challenge.
Norma e Variação Linguística: Implicações no Ensino da Língua Portuguesa em Angola
Authors: Bernardo Ezequiel Pedro José
Published: December 2018

Esse estudo procura descrever a diversidade linguística angolana oriunda do multilinguismo. A coabitação de cerca de vinte línguas nacionais de origem bantu e não bantu com o português, a língua oficial, promoveu o contato linguístico e concomitantemente a interferência. Nesse contexto, situações de violências simbólicas são frequentes na realidade angolana, motivadas por um ensino que relega a variação linguística, uma vez que o país é caracterizado pelo ensino dogmático, voltado à doutrina da gramática tradicional, que em vez de agregar as qualidades dos alunos, as segrega. Com base nestas constatações, objetiva-se na pesquisa: (i) proporcionar ao professor subsídios que estimulem a reflexão, questionamentos e crítica sobre questões normativas para um viés de ensino voltado à variação linguística, (ii) saber de que forma a norma-prescritiva pode implicar no ensino do português angolano (PA).
A Criatividade da Língua Portuguesa: Estudo de Moçambicanismos no Português de Moçambique
Authors: Abdula Rajabo Alfredo Mugabo
Published: December 2018

Este trabalho é uma reflexão acerca da língua Portuguesa em Moçambique. Para além do português, que é a única língua oficial, o país dispõe de muitas outras línguas. Por causa do contato entre o português e essas línguas, sobretudo as do grupo linguístico bantu, o português falado no país vai criando suas marcas de identidade. O objetivo deste estudo é o de identificar as principais áreas de influências das línguas bantu sobre o português, através do uso do método bibliográfico. A partir da pesquisa, concluiu-se que há uma influência mútua entre o português e as línguas do grupo linguístico bantu. Assim, os neologismos e os empréstimos são uma marca de identidade do português de Moçambique. Além disso, há influências das línguas bantu sobre o português nos níveis fonético, fonológico e lexical.
Fórmulas de selección económica de contratistas en adjudicación de obras de infraestructura vial: Estudio de caso Valle del Cauca, Colombia
Authors: Zambrano Díaz Nikolas Augusto , Jaramillo Gómez María Alejandra , Pérez Ruiz Diego Darío , Serrano Guzmán María Fernanda
Published: December 2018

The general statute for contracting in public administration in Colombia (Law 80 of 1983) establishes that state entities (Law 489 of 1988), except those that the law does not require more than one proposal, must select their contractors through: public tenders, invitations or any contractual modality, according to the legal regime applicable to the contract (Law 816 of 2003). In order to guarantee transparency in the bidding processes, have been proposed diff erent types of formulas and even then, they sometimes end up favoring the same group of people. This article analyzes the impact of the bidder selection formula on road infrastructure projects in the Department of Valle del Cauca. For this purpose, contract specifi cations were available based on the digital platform of the Electronic Procurement Service SECOP.
Gestión de Proyectos: origen, instituciones, metodologías, estándares y certificaciones
Authors: Velez García Santiago , Zapata cortes Julián Andrés , Henao Rosero Andrés
Published: December 2018

This work briefl y recounts the beginnings of project management as a formal profession, presenting the diff erent organizations around the world that promote it, its methodologies and standards as well as certifi cations for its accreditation. It also makes a succinct analysis of the project management situation in Colombia to fi nish with closing notes
Effects of Six-Month Aerobic Exercise Intervention on Sleep in Healthy Older Adults in the Brain in Motion Study: A Pilot Study
Authors: Guadagni Veronica , Clark Cameron M. , Tyndall Amanda , Raneri Jill K. , Parboosingh Jillian S. , Hogan David B. , Hanly Patrick J. , Poulin Marc J.
Published: December 2018

Background:

Sleep disturbances have been shown to be associated with the presence of the apolipoprotein ( APOE) ɛ4 allele, the well-known genetic risk factor for late-onset sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Objective:

This study quantifies the effects of a six-month aerobic exercise intervention on objective and subjective sleep quality in middle-aged to older individuals including those at increased genetic risk for late-onset sporadic Alzheimer’s disease (AD), who carry the apolipoprotein ( APOE) ɛ4 risk allele.

Methods:

199 sedentary men and women without significant cognitive impairments were enrolled in the Brain in Motion study, a quasi-experimental single group pre-test/post-test study with no control group. Participants completed a six-month aerobic exercise intervention and consented to genetic testing. Genotyping of APOE confirmed that 54 individuals were carriers of the ɛ4 allele. Participants’ subjective quality of sleep was assessed with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) pre- and post-intervention. A convenience sample of participants ( n = 29, APOE ɛ4+ = 7) consented to undergo two nights of in-home polysomnography (PSG) pre- and post intervention. Sleep architecture and respiratory variables were assessed.

Results:

The six-month aerobic exercise intervention significantly improved participants’ total PSQI score, sleep efficiency, and sleep latency in the full sample ( n = 199). PSG results showed that total sleep time and sleep onset latency significantly improved over the course of the exercise intervention only in individuals who carried the APOE ɛ4 allele. These results are, however, exploratory and need to be carefully interpreted due to the rather small number of APOE ɛ4+ in the PSG subgroup.

Conclusions:

The six-month aerobic exercise intervention significantly improved participants’ sleep quality with beneficial effects on PSG shown in individuals at increased genetic risk for late-onset sporadic AD.
Analytical investigation of air-gap flux density distribution of a PM vernier motor
Authors: Azeem Muhammad , Humza Muhammad , Kim Byungtaek
Published: December 2018

This paper presents an analytical method to calculate the air-gap magnetic flux density distribution of a permanent magnet (PM) vernier motor. For this purpose, the air gap permeance, the magneto-motive force (MMF) of rotor magnets and the MMF from stator winding are respectively expressed in the form of Fourier series. The permeance function whose values of the all harmonics are given in terms of geometry, is utilized with the MMF of PMs to analyze the air gap flux density of the vernier machine. In addition, the role of each harmonic components of flux density in the production of back electromotive force (back-EMF) and torque is examined. Finally, the effectiveness and accuracy of the derived expressions are checked with the help of finite element (FE) analysis.
Performance assessment tool based on loadability concepts
Authors: Lefevre Yvan , El-Aabid Sami , Llibre Jean-François , Henaux Carole , Touhami Sarah
Published: December 2018

In order to choose electric machines for transport applications, i.e. automotive, aerospace, railway and naval, a tool that can make quick tradeoffs of high specific torque electric motors has been developed. The level of the different technologies involved in an electrical machine can be quantified using the loadability concepts developed by experienced designers. After recalling these concepts, magnetic, electric and thermal balances are used to calculate the main sizes of an electric motor according to some targets. Specific power or specific torque can then be quickly assessed. The proposed approach is validated by applying the tool to some known high torque industrial motors.
Testing of a 100 kW oil-free high-speed permanent-magnet synchronous motor
Authors: Sheng Feng , Geng Haipeng , Zhang Bo , Yang Baisong , Xia Kai , Yu Lie , Cheng Wenjie
Published: December 2018

This paper describes a program development in testing a 100 kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) using multi-leaf foil bearings with bump foils. The testing program includes the motor speed up to 43000 rpm, and then slow down to zero speed. The orbit of the rotor and the electrical parameters of the motor are obtained. The success in the experiments shows that the design and fabrication of the compliant gas foil bearings and motor can provide a useful guide to the development of an advanced high speed rotating machinery.
Design and analysis of an adaptive negative resistance shunted electromagnetic isolator
Authors: Xu Binbin , Yan Bo , Ma Chicheng , Zhang Xinong
Published: December 2018

The variation of electrical parameters will inevitably influence the performance of electromagnetic shunt damping. To overcome this, this paper presents an adaptive negative resistance shunt to improve the vibration control performance. A novel electromagnetic isolator is designed, modelled and fabricated. The electromagnetic coupling coefficient is obtained according to the current model, and the corresponding parameters are optimized numerically and verified experimentally. An adaptive negative resistance shunt circuit is constructed. The results show that the proposed adaptive negative resistance shunt can adjust resistance to an optimal value and thus improve the vibration isolation performance of the electromagnetic isolator.
Transfer path analysis of rocket engine based on weighted Tikhonov regularization
Authors: Lu Guanglin , Luo Yajun , Xie Shilin , Zhang Xinong , Li Luxian , Ma Chicheng
Published: December 2018

To overcome ill-posed problem of force identification in the Transfer Path Analysis (TPA) of a rocket engine, this paper proposes a novel TPA based on weighted Tikhonov regularization. Firstly, the upper bound of relative force identification error of the traditional TPA is derived. Secondly, weighting matrix and Bayesian theory are adopted to improve the accuracy of force identification, and then the theory of the improved TPA is built. Finally, a ground vibration testing of the rocket engine is performed to analyze its path contributions. The results show that the proposed TPA is more accurate than the traditional TPA.
Proposal of evaluation method of opposite side depth on steel plate using magnetic field of square wave on direct current bias
Authors: Yoshioka Saijiro , Kuboyama Eiki , Gotoh Yuji
Published: December 2018

As for the alternating magnetic flux leakage testing of non-destructive inspection, the alternating magnetic field with high frequency is used. Therefore, this inspection method is not used for inspection of the opposite side defect in the steel plate. In this paper, the inspection method of the opposite side defect in the steel plate is proposed by this inspection method using the magnetizing current of the square wave on direct-current bias. This inspection principle is investigated by 3-D nonlinear FEM analysis taking account of magnetizing properties of minor loop and eddy current in the steel plate.
METODE SIMULASI DALAM OPTIMALISASI KINERJA TERMAL RUMAH VERNAKULAR DI DAERAH DATARAN RENDAH
Authors: Sibyan Hidayatus , Asnawi Muhamat Fuat
Published: December 2018

Energi menjadi permasalahan krusial yang selalu dicari solusi penyelesaiannya dalam semua bidang. Bidang Teknik Informatika atau komputer sangat berkaitan erat dengan bidang lain seperti adanya software komputer untuk mensimulasikan kinerja bangunan dalam melakukan penghematan energi.

Metode simulasi dengan penggunaan software komputer untuk bangunan banyak berkembang. Salah satu metode yang senantiasa berkembang adalah Program Revit. Penelitian ini akan melihat optimalisasi kinerja termal bangunan dengan menggunakan Software Revit.

Target khusus penelitian ini adalah membandingkan kinerja termal rumah tinggal lokal tersebut dengan metode simulasi khususnya dalam penghematan energi. Penelitian akan mengambil fokus rumah lokal di daerah dataran rendah (pantai). Penelitian akan menggunakan variabel iklim yaitu suhu udara, kelembaban udara, kecepatan angin dan suhu radiasi matahari rata-rata. Sebelum masuk ke metode simulasi, dilakukan survey lapangan untuk mengetahui data-data variabel iklim yang riil.

Data rumah tinggal dan hasil pengukuran akan dimasukkan ke dalam software simulasi. Hasil simulasi analisa energi Rumah tinggal dengan penggunaan total energi tahunan terkecil (total EUI) adalah rumah Bapak Pujiono rumah tinggal berdinding kayu dengan total EUI sebesar 727 MJ/sm/yr. Penggunaan energi listrik tahunan (Electricity EUI) 168 kWh/sm/yr dengan biaya sekitar $10.08 (Rp134.033.65). Penggunaan energi bahan bakar tahunan (Fuel EUI) 123 MJ/sm/yr dengan biaya sekitar $13.53 (Rp179.908.27)
The Prehospital Community-Volunteer Model Has a Place in Rural Australia
Authors: O'Meara Peter
Published: December 2018

Objectives

Australian ambulance services rely on the community-volunteer model of prehospital care in many rural areas. The aim of this study was to conceptually describe the model as it operates in rural settings.

Methods

Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) was used to describe and critically appraise an abstract prehospital community-volunteer model within the context of rural Australia. The philosophical starting point was that local prehospital services should be self-reliant and autonomous. SSM was used to structure the elements of prehospital systems and the relationships between them into metaphors and pictures for analysis.

Results

The major characteristic of the prehospital community-volunteer model is the relatively uncomplicated processes used to deliver services. Key elements are a knowledgeable and empowered community, a dispatch system with local knowledge, adequate physical resources to meet community expectations, a volunteer-based staffing system, and direct communication with local health professionals. Culturally, the community-volunteer model has a very strong rural character, with opportunity for health professional, emergency worker and local community member involvement. This may be as a volunteer ambulance officer or as a participant in the local governance of the service.

Conclusion

The prehospital community-volunteer model is a strong and resilient model in communities where the relationship between the ambulance service and the community is based on a socially constructed framework. Advanced technology, rules, systems, procedures and policies are unable to sustain a community-volunteer ambulance service. In contrast to other models, it is held together through stories of the past, rituals and myths. Prehospital community-volunteer models will continue to be important providers of prehospital services in rural Australia. Successful community-volunteer ambulance services need to be integrated into a local urgent care system.
Paramedic Knowledge of Infectious Disease Aetiology and Transmission in An Australian Emergency Medical System
Authors: Shaban Ramon Z. , Creedy Debra K. , Clark Michele J.
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Paramedics and other emergency health workers are exposed to infectious disease particularly when undertaking exposure-prone procedures as a component of their everyday practice. This study examined paramedic knowledge of infectious disease aetiology and transmission in the pre-hospital care environment.

Methods

A mail survey of paramedics from an Australian ambulance service (n=2274) was conducted.

Results

With a response rate of 55.3% (1258/2274), the study demonstrated that paramedic knowledge of infectious disease aetiology and modes of transmission was poor. Of the 25 infectious diseases included in the survey, only three aetiological agents were correctly identified by at least 80% of respondents. The most accurate responses for aetiology of individual infectious diseases were for HIV/AIDS (91.4%), influenza (87.4%), and hepatitis B (85.7%). Poorest results were observed for pertussis, infectious mononucleosis, leprosy, dengue fever, Japanese B encephalitis and vancomycin resistant enterococcus (VRE), all with less than half the sample providing a correct response. Modes of transmission of significant infectious diseases were also assessed. Most accurate responses were found for HIV/AIDS (85.8%), salmonella (81.9%) and influenza (80.1%). Poorest results were observed for infectious mononucleosis, diphtheria, shigella, Japanese B encephalitis, vancomycin resistant enterococcus, meningococcal meningitis, rubella and infectious mononucleosis, with less than a third of the sample providing a correct response.

Conclusion

Results suggest that knowledge of aetiology and transmission of infectious disease is generally poor amongst paramedics. A comprehensive in-service education infection control programs for paramedics with emphasis on infectious disease aetiology and transmission is recommended.
Confirming the Potential use of Vasopressin in Prehospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Robinson Kai
Published: December 2018

This paper uses the term [primary health care practitioner] inline with current academic norm. The primary health care practitioner represents the following: Ambulance Paramedic, Intensive Care Paramedic, Paramedic, Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance Officer, Advance Life Support Officer, Ambulance Officer and or anyone who practices prehospital emergency care.
Getting Ethics Committee Approval for Research: A Beginners Guide
Authors: Morgans Amee , Allen Felicity
Published: December 2018

The process of gaining ethics approval is an essential step in conducting research. This paper acts as a beginners guide to the process of ethics approval for first time and student applicants, and offers some tips to planning for ethics approval as part of the research methodology to minimise any potential revisions the ethics committee may request. The paper also briefly discusses how seeking ethics approval can improve research practices and benefit research design
Use of Simulators in Teaching and Learning: Paramedics’ Evaluation of a Patient Simulator?
Authors: Wyatt Andrea , Archer Frank , Fallows Brian
Published: December 2018

Objectives

This study was undertaken as a precursor to a larger study investigating the benefits of simulation in reducing management and technique errors in the prehospital management of trauma patients. However, prior to this it was considered necessary to conduct a preliminary study to address the following: Undertake a structured evaluation of the Laerdal™ SimMan™ Patient Simulator. Determine the “functional fidelity” of the Laerdal™ SimMan™ Patient Simulator that was used in this project from the Paramedic perspective.

Methods

Participants taking part in the study were invited to complete an evaluation form that examined the various components of the simulator. A second evaluation form examined both the features of the simulator and their applicability to Paramedic practice. The simulator capabilities were assessed through an evaluation of the simulator features, and, with a qualitative element included, provided a descriptive analysis of simulator functional fidelity.

Results

Analysis identified 36 of 54 features (66%) of the simulator were rated by the respondents as at least ‘average physiological accuracy’. An analysis of applicability to practice identified 41 of 54 features (75%) were rated at least beneficial to practice by greater than 80% of respondents. In combining these results, only 5 features considered applicable to Paramedic practice demonstrated a below average level of physiological accuracy. These findings indicate that, as a general concept, the use of this particular simulator as an educational experience was held in high regard within this cohort of participants.

Conclusion

Previous studies in related health disciplines have identified an acceptance of a patient simulator as a learning tool by students. This study supports these findings, with Paramedic students evaluating the Laerdal™ SimMan™ Patient Simulator as having high functional fidelity, using the criteria outlined for this study. The findings from this study afford the opportunity for ongoing educational initiatives and research in the training of Paramedics utilising the Patient Simulator.
Surveys of Cultural Competency in Health Professional Education: A Literature Review
Authors: Spencer Caroline , Macdonald Rhona , Archer Frank
Published: December 2018

A literature review, in advance of designing a survey of cultural competency in Australian and New Zealand paramedic education courses, provides the focus of this paper. The review sought to explore the extent to which other health professions include cultural competency in their undergraduate curriculum.

The literature review identified specific research papers that used survey methods to determine the status of cultural competency training in other health professions. With no paramedic specific information available to inform paramedic education, these research papers formed a basis for designing a survey that would examine the extent to which paramedic education includes cultural competency in its curricula.

This paper is timely for informing paramedic education about surveys on cultural competency in health professional education. It is particularly timely for the paramedic profession, which is currently in transition from a vocationally based occupation to a professionally based discipline within a university setting; and, at a time when a small number of student paramedics are opting to take advantage of an Honours degree. Similarly, experienced paramedics are undertaking Masters and Doctoral research programs in prehospital and paramedic related issues. Such opportunities enable paramedics to extend their career prospects into academic research, an opportunity that was previously untenable.

The process of reviewing the literature to develop a paramedic specific survey provides useful information for paramedics who may want to undertake similar research projects to examine other aspects of the curriculum. This paper, therefore, contributes to both developing an appreciation of the complex issues which arise from this process, and establishes an evidence base foundation for the paramedic discipline as it emerges within an academic and research orientated environment. The lessons learned in reviewing surveys might be useful for other health professions and emergency service researchers.
Patient Decision Making in Prehospital Health Emergencies: Determinants and Predictors of Patient Delay
Authors: Morgans Amee , Archer Frank , Allen Felicity
Published: December 2018

Background

Previous research has identified that cardiac patients tend to delay seeking help for chest pain. This study examined whether help-seeking delay occurred in all health emergencies, and explored what people are doing while they delay. This study also explored patient decision making processes and behaviours that determine how long it takes patients to seek emergency help.

Methods

This study used a self administered survey, including the Coping Responses Inventory. Participants were a random sample of emergency department attendees, stratified for urgency (high vs medium–low) and mode of transport to the hospital emergency department (ambulance vs other). Additional in-depth patient interviews were also conducted.

Results

Survey responses showed the median delay from symptom onset to arrival at health care was 4.6 hours. Discriminant Function Analysis identified that gender, pain and coping style predicted delay.

Conclusion

This study identified that delay is not unique to cardiac emergencies. A process of decision making was undertaken which was common to many health emergencies involving a conscious patient, the outcome of which determined how long each patient took to seek help. Psychosocial, normative and affective factors such as coping style drove patient decisions during a health emergency. The knowledge that patients make decisions in a health emergency based on what they feel, not on what they know is a breakthrough in the understanding of patient motivations to seek medical help in health emergencies, and may explain why traditional patient education using an informative approach has had only limited success.
Procedural Sedation and Analgesia Facilitator – Expanded Scope Role for Paramedics in the Emergency Department
Authors: Campbell SG , Petrie DA , MacKinley RP , Froese P , Etsell G , Warren DA , Kovacs GJ , Urquhart DG , Magee KD
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Procedural sedation and analgesia (PSA) is accepted as a standard of care in emergency departments (ED). PSA requires careful monitoring of a patient‟s cardio-respiratory status, and an ability to act immediately and appropriately in the event of any untoward event. The knowledge and skills necessary for this are a natural extension of the expertise of Advanced Care Paramedics (ACP). We report a series of PSA‟s conducted by ACPs over a 19 month period at a busy teaching hospital.

Methods

This is a retrospective descriptive study presenting data from a registry recording details of all cases of ACP-facilitated PSA conducted in our ED between August 1, 2004 and February 28, 2006. Baseline characteristics, indication for the procedure, medications used and adverse events are reported.

Results

1334 ACP-facilitated PSAs were conducted during the period. According to definitions used by this study, „desaturation‟- a SaO2 of < 90% at any time during the procedure in patients with an initial SaO2 of > 95% occurred in only 11 (0.9%) patients, and „hypotension‟ – systolic blood pressure (SBP) < 85 mm Hg in patients with an initial SBP > 100 mm Hg occurred in 0.6% of patients. One significant adverse event was recorded, that of pulmonary aspiration. Medications used for PSA included fentanyl (94.1%of cases), propofol (65.5%), midazolam (36.7%) and ketamine (2.2%).

Conclusion

PSA conducted in the ED by specifically trained ACPs is not associated with a significant number of adverse effects. This role should be recognized and subjected to further study.
A Survey of Undergraduate Health Science Students’ Views on Interprofessional Education and the Use of Educational Technology: Preliminary Analyses and Findings
Authors: Williams Brett , Lewis Belinda , Boyle Malcolm , Brown Ted , Holt Tangerine
Published: December 2018

We report the preliminary findings of a project that sought the views of first year undergraduate health science students about interprofessional education (IPE) and how they perceived the interaction between different “professions” in the health care context. Students were also asked about the use of wireless keypads in undergraduate classroom learning environments and whether it suited their learning approaches. The aim of this study was to ascertain undergraduate health science student views on IPE and educational technology during the first year of their undergraduate course. The study used a pre-test post-test methodology investigating IPE perspectives and attitudes towards educational technology (wireless keypads). This paper will report on the initial pre-test results.
Exploration of Attitudes and Barriers to Bringing Patient's Own Medications to the Emergency Department: A Survey of Paramedics
Authors: Chan Esther , Taylor Simone , Marriott Jennifer , Barger Bill
Published: December 2018

Background

Previous research has demonstrated that when ambulance paramedics facilitate patient‟s own medications (POM) being brought in to the Emergency Department (ED), the number of prescribing errors on the hospital admission medication chart was significantly decreased, thereby increasing admission prescribing accuracy.

Aim

We aimed to examine paramedics‟ attitudes to bringing POM to the ED and explore the associated barriers.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional survey of a convenience sample of ambulance paramedics bringing patients to the ED of a tertiary-referral metropolitan teaching hospital. The questionnaire consisted of 5 questions and took approximately 2 minutes to complete.

Results

The response rate for the survey was 81.9% (50/61). The study demonstrated a general agreement that bringing POM to the ED was important. Most highly rated barriers noted by respondents to bringing POM included time limitations (60%), location of patient pick up (44%), fear of losing patient‟s medications (24%) and patient‟s refusal (18%).

Conclusion

Overall, paramedics perceived bringing POM to ED as being important. There are identifiable barriers to paramedics bringing POM to the Emergency Department on admission. Resolution of such barriers may increase the frequency with which POM is brought to hospital, leading to a positive impact on prescribing accuracy.
Non-Emergency Patient Transport in Victoria: An Overview
Authors: Huggins Chris , Shugg David
Published: December 2018

The non-emergency patient transport system (NEPT) in Victoria, Australia evolved out of an identified need in the latter part of the 20th century. This system is growing and maturing as the health system evolves. The emergency and non-emergency systems will slowly diverge over time as the needs and responsibilities of the two systems further develop. This paper discusses the evolution of the non-emergency patient transport system (ambulance) in Victoria and its current role in the health system in Victoria Australia.
Out-of-Hospital Administration of Corticosteroids to Patients with Acute Asthma: A Case Study and Literature Review
Authors: Long David , Bendal Jason , Bower Andrew
Published: December 2018

Objectives

Asthma is an important health problem in Australia with more than 2.2. million Australians currently diagnosed with Asthma. Asthma is associated with significant mortality and frequent use of emergency medical services. The objectives of this paper were to: a) present a case study of a near-fatal episode of severe acute asthma in which the patient was administered corticosteroids by an Ambulance Service of New South Wales Extended Care Paramedic; b) review the epidemiology and pathophysiology of acute asthma as well as current pharmacotherapy in asthma management; and c) conduct a literature search and critical appraisal of existing evidence supporting the out-of-hospital administration of corticosteroids for acute asthma by paramedics.

Methods

The purpose of the literature search was to identify comparative studies of adult patients with “acute” asthma treated by paramedics with corticosteroids prior to arrival at the emergency department (ED) to evaluate whether this intervention is associated with improved outcomes. A literature search of databases included the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (Cochrane Reviews Issue 4 2008), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Clinical Trials), Medline (1950- November 2008), EMBASE and CINAHL. A pre-hospital filter was applied to increase the sensitivity of the searches as appropriate. MeSH headings included exp/asthma, exp/hydrocortisone, exp/prednisone, exp/prednisolone and exp/glucocorticoids. Searched text words included asthma, hydrocortisone, prednisone and prednisolone. Titles and abstracts of interest were inspected to identify relevant articles with the full text of selected articles retrieved. Identified papers were independently appraised by two reviewers.

Results

Only two original studies were identified. The first was a retrospective comparative study of adult patients with moderate to severe asthma who received 125 mg methylprednisolone prior to transport to hospital or after arrival in the ED. The second study was a retrospective chart review to determine whether the out-of-hospital administration of systemic steroids to asthmatic patients had any effect on hospital admission rates.

Conclusion

Corticosteroids have been widely used in the hospital setting for many years in the treatment of acute asthma and there is good evidence to support their early administration in an ED setting. Out-of-hospital studies provide only weak evidence of benefit. There is insufficient evidence of adequate quality to determine if corticosteroids should be routinely used by paramedics. A prospective randomised controlled trial is needed to determine the true value of early corticosteroid administration in the ambulance setting.
A Cellulitis Guideline at a Community Hospital – We Can Reduce Costs by Standardizing Care
Authors: Campbell Samuel G. , Burton-MacLeod Rebecca , Howlett Todd
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To assess whether there is: a) a clinical difference between patients with cellulitis treated according to the recommendations of a clinical cellulitis guideline, and those treated otherwise and b) a difference in the cost of antibiotic treatment of the two groups

Methods

Emergency Department (ED) patients diagnosed with cellulitis at a community hospital were graded using a 4-point scale, and physicians were encouraged to treat based on an established practice guideline. Patients were contacted 5 days after their ED visit, and again at 10 days if they had not improved by 5 days. Physician ‘compliance’ was defined as having followed three or more of the five elements of the guideline.

Results

Of the 272 patients, 147 (54.1%) were classified as Grade I, 53 (19.5%) Grade II, 33(12.1%) Grade III, and 6 (2.2%) Grade IV. In 12.1% the grade was not assigned. 43.5% were treated in compliance with the guidelines, of which 83.3% reported improvement at 5 days, compared to 87.7% of those treated otherwise. At 10 days, 98.8% of the patients treated in compliance with the protocol had improved compared to 94.7% of those treated otherwise. Average antibiotic cost/patient was: Grade 1: $8.48, Grade II: $16.65, Grade II: $96.53 in the ‘compliance’ group, and $35.68, $51.28, and $150.18 respectively in the ‘non-compliance’ group.

Conclusion

Patients treated in accordance with the cellulitis guideline had similar outcomes to those treated otherwise, at significantly lower cost. Efforts to encourage compliance with the guideline are indicated.