bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of policy scenarios for achieving renewable energy sources targets: A fuzzy TOPSIS approach
Authors: Papapostolou Aikaterini , Karakosta Charikleia , Doukas Haris
Published: March 2017

The growing need to tackle climate change and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions has led to strong interest in renewable energy sources and the setting of specific renewable energy sources targets in countries and regions within Europe. Recent political discussions have mainly revolved around the question of the most effective and efficient renewable energy sources target and how to achieve it. In this context, European and national policy makers have to address difficult issues: On the one hand, how to support the successful achievement of renewable energy targets in the short and medium term and in a time horizon up to 2030, and, on the other hand, how to share the efforts required among individual entities such as single European Member States or groups of European Member States. This paper presents a multi-criteria approach based on an extension of the Fuzzy Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution for group decision support in order to evaluate alternative policy scenarios for achieving the 2030 renewable energy target. Different effort-sharing arrangements among Member States are evaluated to determine the optimal burden sharing of the common renewable energy target among countries. The results and conclusions obtained can help to reduce uncertainty in the field of energy and climate policy, and aid policy makers in designing effective policies based on the findings.
Do Asian Values Still Exist? Revisiting the Roots in Search of a Plausible Future
Authors: Sen Parama
Published: March 2017

In a world ripped with conflicting issues stemming from varying interests and pressing common concerns, the role of culture and tradition seems to have gained greater salience. At the core of Asia’s cultural assertiveness lies the concept on Asian values. Claimed to be rooted in Confucianism, the discourse appeals to the communitarian Asian tradition pitting it against the individualism of the West. While the use of the concept to explain the economic prosperity of East and Southeast Asia and as a counterforce to globalisation was thwarted by the Asian financial crisis, the belief that Asia and Asians subscribed to a value system fundamentally different from that of the West lingered on. This article seeks to analyse the contemporary relevance of the concept of Asian values and delve into its roots in an attempt to attune it to current realities.
Inhibition of Phosphodiesterase 5 and Increasing the Level of Cyclic Guanosine 3′,5′ Monophosphate by Hydroalcoholic Achillea wilhelmsii C. Koch Extract in Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines MCF-7 and MDA-Mb-468
Authors: Saravani Ramin , Galavi Hamid Reza , Shahraki Ali
Published: March 2017

This study aimed to investigate the effect of hydroalcoholic Achillea wilhelmsii C. Koch extract (HAWE) on phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) gene expression and cyclic guanosine 3′,5′ monophosphate (cGMP) signaling in the MCF-7 and MDA-Mb-468 cell lines. The effective dose (ED50) of HAWE was examined in both cell lines using a 3-(4,5-dimethylhiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide viability test, and the type of cell death was detected by flow cytometry. The expression of PDE5 and the concentration of cGMP were measured in a time-dependent manner in the ED50 by real-time polymerase chain reaction and a colorimetric assay, respectively. Treatment with HAWE showed 25 µg/mL to be the ED50 for both cell lines, and HAWE led to a reduction in the PDE5 messenger RNA expression. The intracellular cGMP increased in a time-dependent manner. The results showed that HAWE has an antiproliferative property in MCF-7 and MDA-Mb-468 cell lines through the cGMP pathway. Therefore, HAWE is a potential source to effectively isolate inhibitory PDE5.
Differences and Agreement in Perception of Child Picky Eating Among Center- and Home-Based Childcare Providers and Parents and Its Impact on Utilized Mealtime Strategies
Authors: Luchini Virginia , Musaad Salma M , Donovan Sharon M , Lee Soo-Yeun
Published: March 2017

Picky eating is a problematic eating behavior caregivers may encounter with children under their care. A picky eater (PE) is typically characterized as consuming a narrow range of food, as well as rejecting several food items. Much of the literature regarding PEs involves parents, although use of nonparental childcare arrangements in the United States has increased in the past several decades. Although data on parental mealtime strategies exist, little is known about how parent and childcare provider pickiness perceptions differ between types of childcare, such as center-based childcare (CBCC) and home-based childcare (HBCC), or how these perceptions influence the mealtime strategies utilized. The objectives of this study were to (1) compare perceptions of child pickiness between parents and childcare providers, (2) compare percent agreement in pickiness perception between the dyads of CBCC parents and providers and HBCC parents and providers, and (3) identify mealtime strategy utilization based on pickiness perception. A total of 52 child, parent, and childcare provider triads participated in the study and completed the Mealtime Assessment Survey and the Parent/Teacher Mealtime Strategy Survey regarding the same child. Results showed that parents are 1.4 times more likely than childcare providers to perceive a child as being picky, HBCC parents and providers are 1.4 times more likely to perceive a child as being picky than CBCC parents and providers, CBCC parents and providers disagree more in their perception of child pickiness than HBCC parents and providers (41% vs 26%), and finally, perception of child pickiness has a greater influence on mealtime strategies utilized by parents. These results can be used to focus intervention efforts aimed at improving child eating habits across the home and childcare location.
Interactions of Tryptophan and Its Catabolites With Melatonin and the Alpha 7 Nicotinic Receptor in Central Nervous System and Psychiatric Disorders: Role of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor and Direct Mitochondria Regulation
Authors: Anderson George , Maes Michael
Published: March 2017

Recent work indicates an intimate interaction of the tryptophan catabolite (TRYCAT) pathways with the melatonergic pathways, primarily via TRYCAT pathway induction taking tryptophan away from the production of serotonin, which is a necessary precursor for the melatonergic pathways. The alpha 7 nicotinic receptor may be significantly modulated by this interaction, given its inactivation by the TRYCAT, kynurenic acid, and its induction by melatonin. Similarly, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor is activated by both kynurenic acid and kynurenine, leading to CYP1A2 and melatonin metabolism, whereas melatonin may act to inhibit the aryl hydrocarbon receptor. These 2 receptors and pathways may therefore be intimately linked, with relevance to a host of intracellular processes of clinical relevance. In this article, these interactions are reviewed. Interestingly, mitochondria may be a site for direct interactions of these pathways and receptors, suggesting that their differential induction may not only be modulating neuronal, glia, and immune cell processes and activity but also be directly acting to regulate mitochondrial functioning. This is likely to have significant consequences as to how an array of diverse central nervous system and psychiatric conditions are conceptualized and treated.
Lung Adenocarcinoma Presenting as Worsening of Chronic Neck Pain—A Cautionary Tale
Authors: Akhavan Neeka N , Brar Tony S , Maska Edlira
Published: March 2017

Introduction:

Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal problem that up to 70% of the world population will experience at some point in their lives. Intramedullary spinal cord metastasis is an exceedingly rare complication of malignancy that affects less than 1% of all patients with cancer.

Case report:

We report a case of a 61-year-old man who presented to primary care clinic with 1-month history of worsening neck pain with associated neurologic deficits. Despite initial conservative management, the patient continued to have progressive worsening of sensory and motor deficits. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine showed vasogenic edema of the brain and spinal cord and nodularity at the C4-C5 level. A computed tomography of the chest showed a dense lesion in the left lower lobe of the lung; histopathology of the biopsied specimen was consistent with moderately differentiated lung adenocarcinoma.

Conclusions:

A high index of suspicion is necessary when chronic neck pain acutely worsens, changes in character, or is accompanied by neurologic deficits. These clinical signs warrant further investigation into a secondary cause of neck pain. Intramedullary spinal cord metastases are rare complications of systemic cancer that commonly present with neck pain and upper extremity paraesthesias; early diagnosis and management are necessary to prevent complications such as spinal cord hemisection syndrome or spinal cord transection.
Hanging Fatalities in Central Bangkok, Thailand: A 13-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Tulapunt Nattapong , Phanchan Swarin , Peonim Vichan
Published: March 2017

Hanging is violent asphyxial death. The objective of this study is to assess the data of hanging cases. A descriptive-retrospective study was conducted. We studied 244 hanging cases autopsied in Forensic Division, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand, between January 2001 and December 2013. The study included 197 men (80.7%) and 47 women (19.2%). Their age ranged from 14 to 93 years. Most of these cases were incomplete hanging (83.6%). Features of hanging victims, such as tongue protrusion; congestion of face; petechial hemorrhage of face, conjunctiva, and internal organs; and neck injuries, significantly correlated with complete hanging. The predominant occupation of hanging victims was in the service industry (63.1%). Suicides usually occurred in private homes or apartments (84.8%). A suicide note was found in 6.1% of cases. The most common ligature material used was nylon rope, found in 61.1% of cases. The most underlying diseases of the victims in hanging cases were tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus infection, 9 cases each. Blood ethanol levels of 29 cases (11.8%) were detected to be higher than 150 mg%. Methamphetamine and benzodiazepine were detected in 5.3% and 3.3% of cases, respectively. This study provides comprehensive baseline data of hanging cases in central Bangkok.
Sun-Smart Practices Amongst School Students (Grades 5, 7, and 9) in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Jha Divya , Jha Shankar , Ghosh Sunita , Smylie Michael , Taher Muba
Published: March 2017

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to assess the current knowledge children possess on melanoma and sun-protective behaviour.

Methods:

A one-page survey was administered to students in grades 5, 7, and 9.

Results:

Three hundred ninety-two students from 11 schools in Edmonton were surveyed. Seventy-one percent of students knew that sun exposure can cause skin cancers. Sixty-nine percent were taught by their parents about sun protection, but only 44% of students received similar instructions from teachers. Twenty percent of students indicated that they never or rarely wore sunscreen. Twenty-five percent of students had experienced painful sunburns, and only 46% were willing to use sunscreen if it were available at school. More Caucasian students reported painful or peeling sunburns in each grade level than their non-Caucasian peers (for grade 5, P = .003; for grade 7, P < .0001; for grade 9, P = .001). For all grade levels, the percentage of Caucasian students who indicated that they would not wear sunscreen when going out in the sun was greater than among their non-Caucasian peers (for grade 5, P < .001; for grade 7, P = .003; for grade 9, P = .015).

Conclusions:

A comprehensive and focused approach to sun-smart education is recommended for students.
Retrofitting masonry and cavity brick façades for different noise zones using laboratory measurements
Authors: Demirkale Sevtap Yilmaz , Ascigil-Dincer Mine
Published: March 2017

Façade airborne sound insulation is crucial for protection of indoor environment from environmental noise. In Turkey, sound insulation in new buildings is bound by law, but 6 million pre-1980 dwellings with thin brick walls and single-glazed windows used in highly transparent façades should be retrofitted. In this study, sound reduction index of masonry and cavity exterior walls which consist of brick, mortar, gypsum board and mineral wool and of common window types is measured in sound insulation test rooms. The study compares and evaluates the effects of plaster, brick thickness, cavity depth, mineral wool thickness and mineral wool placement on sound reduction index values, using traditional materials and building techniques. Traditional brick wall façades and possible retrofitting of these façades are evaluated for sound insulation of bedrooms and living rooms in different noise zones, 55, 60, 65, 70 and 75 dBA, with various transparency ratios, 0%, 30%, 40%, 50% and 70%. The analysis shows that window types and single-layer walls are the deterministic factors in evaluating sound insulation in retrofitting projects and that it is not possible to provide proper aural comfort in high noise zones.
Confirmed and Suspected Foreign Body Injuries in Children during 2008–2013: A Hospital-Based Single Center Study in Oulu University Hospital
Authors: Sinikumpu J.- J. , Serlo W.
Published: March 2017

Introduction:

Foreign body injuries are common in children. Most of them are not serious but they can be fatal. A suspected foreign body injury in a child results in a high rate of hospitalizations, exposure to radiation, and need for intervention. This study aimed to analyze the current epidemiology of in-hospital or out of hospital treated foreign object injuries and suspected foreign body injuries in children.

Material and Methods:

All children <16 years of age (N = 152) who suffered or were suspected to suffer (N = 63) from a foreign body injury and were treated in a pediatric trauma unit of Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland, over a 6-year study period (2008–2013) were included. A comprehensive chart review was completed in order to evaluate injury history, age at the time of trauma, treatment and characteristics of the foreign objects.

Results:

The majority (57.9%, N = 88) of the injuries were found in children <3 years of age. There was a male predominance (60.5%, N = 92). The most common anatomical site where the foreign body was found was the nose (28.9%, N = 44), followed by the esophagus (20.4%, N = 31) and the eye (11.2%, N = 17). Foreign objects were also found in the lower airways (10.5%, N = 16), ear (10.5%, N = 16), bowel (9.9%, N = 15), throat (3.9%, N = 6), stomach (3.9%, N = 6), and urethra (0.7%, N = 1). Various household items were the most common foreign bodies (33.6%, N = 51). Toys in particular caused 22.4% (N = 34) of the injuries. In-hospital intervention was necessary for 38.5% of the patients (N = 58). Intervention was needed in 39.7% (N = 25/63) of the patients who were suspected to suffer from foreign body but did not. There were no fatalities.

Conclusion:

Foreign body injuries treated at the pediatric trauma unit were most common in the youngest children (<3 years of age). Majority (61.8%, N = 94) of the patients were treated non-operatively, without any in-hospital intervention.
Judges in Recent Research
Authors: Murphy Kelly J.
Published: March 2017

The book of Judges continues to inspire research and interpretation, from an ongoing focus on traditional research methods such as historical criticism and redaction criticism, to newer approaches like cultural criticism and postcolonial readings. This article surveys recent research on the book of Judges since 2003 by separating the discussion into two sections: the first section traces current research on the overall book of Judges as well as specific characters and/or passages, while the second section notes two growing areas of research; namely, reception history and gender studies.
Prior education of Open University students contributes to their capability in critical thinking
Authors: Repo Saara , Lehtinen Taina , Rusanen Erja , Hyytinen Heidi
Published: March 2017

The focus of this study is on Open University students’ entry-level critical thinking skills. The research questions were: how are students’ age, and level and discipline of previous education related to critical thinking skills; is the level and discipline of previous education connected to the accuracy of students’ self-evaluation of their critical thinking skills? Totally 138 students participated altogether. Critical thinking skills were measured by the constructed-response task of the Collegiate Learning Assessment and retrospective self-evaluation scale. The results showed that students’ critical thinking skills, as measured by both the constructed-response task and the self-evaluation scale, differed statistically between groups of different educational levels. The students with higher education degrees had the most developed critical thinking skills. Furthermore, the students who had previous higher education studies in hard sciences succeeded better in critical thinking than those of soft sciences. Between age-groups there were no differences in critical thinking. Students with prior higher education studies evaluated their skills more accurately. A variety of teaching and learning methods and ample feedback are needed in order to learn critical thinking. In addition, to learn metacognitive skills, students should rehearse self-evaluation skills.
Effect of the Parent–Adolescent Relationship on Adolescent Boys’ Body Image and Subjective Well-Being
Authors: Walter Ofra , Shenaar-Golan Vered
Published: March 2017

Adolescent boys must cope with physical changes that hamper their ability to form a positive body image. Sociocultural messages influence the concepts of body image, personal appearance, and weight, encouraging men to develop lean and muscular bodies. The current study examined adolescent boys’ body image and its relationship to their subjective well-being (SWB) and the effect of the parent–adolescent relationship on body image and SWB. Participating in the research were 107 adolescent boys in Israel, aged 13 to 18 years. Four questionnaires were utilized: demographic, body mass index, Body Investment Scale, and Personal Well-Being Index. The findings indicate a significant, medium positive correlation between SWB and body image. After controlling for the variable of parent–adolescent relationship, the correlation weakened, indicating that the parent–adolescent relationship has no effect on adolescent boys’ SWB and body image. Body image was reported to be a predictor of SWB.
2014 Chinese guidelines for secondary prevention of ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack
Authors: Wang Yongjun , Liu Ming , Pu Chuanqiang
Published: March 2017

Ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) are the most common cerebrovascular disorder and leading cause of death in China. The Effective secondary prevention is the vital strategy for reducing stroke recurrence. The aim of this guideline is to provide the most updated evidence-based recommendation to clinical physicians from the prior version. Control of risk factors, intervention for vascular stenosis/occlusion, antithrombotic therapy for cardioembolism, and antiplatelet therapy for noncardioembolic stroke are all recommended, and the prevention of recurrent stroke in a variety of uncommon causes and subtype provided as well. We modified the level of evidence and recommendation according to part of results from domestic RCT in order to facility the clinical practice.
Sport–war cartoon art
Authors: Rinehart Robert E , Caudwell Jayne
Published: March 2017

In this article, We explore the extent to which political cartoons and comic strips – as mediated public and political visual art, the ‘ninth art’ according to Groensteen’s The System of Comics (2007[1999] – subvert/confirm institutional values of so-called Western democracies during times of war. Our concern, as sociologists of sport, is with the ways dominant sporting sensibilities are (re)presented in cartoon art, and how sport itself is conflated with patriotic ideologies of war as a vehicle for propaganda. In particular, We interrogate how competitive-sporting ideals are aligned with war and conflict, and mobilized by cartoons during periods of Western-asserted conflict. We are intrigued by how some cartoon illustrations have the visual power to misplace, simplify and essentialize – via sporting analogy – the intense and complex emotions surrounding war. The aim of the article is to examine how the visual within popular culture is used to dis-connect and dis-engage a public with the realities of war and human conflict.
Successful Use of Ketamine for Central Neurogenic Hyperventilation: A Case Report
Authors: Jones G. Morgan , Wiss Adam L. , Goyal Nitin , Chang Jason J.
Published: March 2017

This report describes the use of ketamine in a patient with central neurogenic hyperventilation following intracerebral hemorrhage. A 41-year-old man was admitted with right thalamic intracerebral hemorrhage with intraventricular extension requiring emergent external ventricular drain placement. After aggressive management of his neurologic status and other associated complications, the patient subacutely developed an altered respiratory pattern characterized by shallow, rapid breaths. After the use of multiple sedative agents to control respiratory drive had failed, a single 2 mg/kg bolus dose of intravenous ketamine was administered. In the 6 hours prior to ketamine dosing, respiratory rate ranged from 24 to 40 breaths per minute. Within minutes of ketamine administration, respiratory patterns improved and primarily ranged from 16 to 20. Twenty-four hours after ketamine administration, the patient was successfully extubated following 12 days of mechanical ventilation. Further research is needed to determine the widespread applicability of this strategy.
Outcome after cardiopulmonary resuscitation in patients with congenital heart disease
Authors: Van Puyvelde Tim , Ameloot Koen , Roggen Mieke , Troost Els , Gewillig Marc , Budts Werner , Van De Bruaene Alexander
Published: March 2017

Background:

Outcome after cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in patients with underlying congenital heart disease is uncertain. This study aimed at evaluating outcome after CPR in patients with underlying congenital heart disease, factors related to worse outcome after CPR and whether survivors of sudden cardiac death (SCD) have a worse outcome when compared to an age, gender and disease-matched control population.

Methods:

Between 1984 and 2015, all patients with congenital heart disease who received in or out-of-hospital CPR were identified from the database of congenital heart disease from the University Hospitals Leuven. Postoperative and neonatal (<6 months of age) CPR was excluded. For each survivor of SCD, two control patients matched for gender, age and underlying heart defect were included in the study.

Results:

Thirty-eight patients (66% men; median age 25 years (interquartile range 9–40); 68% out-of-hospital) were identified, of which 27 (66%) survived the event. The main cause of SCD was ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation ( n=21). Heart defect complexity (odds ratio (OR) 5.1; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2–21.9; P=0.027), pulmonary hypertension (OR 13.8; 95% CI 2.1–89.5; P=0.006) and time to return of spontaneous circulation (OR 1.1; 95% CI 1.0–1.1; P=0.046) were related to worse outcome. Survivors of SCD had a worse prognosis when compared to an age, gender and disease-matched control group (5-year survival 76% vs. 98%; P=0.002).

Conclusions:

The complexity of underlying heart defect, pulmonary hypertension and time to return of spontaneous circulation are related to worse outcome in the case of CPR. Survivors of SCD have a worse outcome when compared to matched controls, indicating the need for adequate implantable cardioverter defibrillator indication assessment and for stringent follow-up of patients with worsening haemodynamics.
Divorced Young Adult Mothers’ Experiences of Breakup
Authors: Langlais Michael R. , Anderson Edward R. , Greene Shannon M.
Published: March 2017

The goal of the current study is to examine the consequences of postdivorce dating breakup for young adult divorced mothers, ages 21–29. First, we hypothesized that breakup would be negatively related to maternal well-being. Second, we predicted that relationship quality would moderate this relationship. Third, we hypothesized that forming and maintaining new subsequent relationships after breakup would promote maternal well-being. Using monthly surveys completed by young adult divorced mothers over a 2-year period after divorce ( N = 51), we used hierarchical linear modeling techniques to test the changes in intercept and slope of breakup for maternal well-being. The event of breakup did not predict the changes in maternal well-being, whereas remaining single after breakup was negatively associated with depressive symptoms. Relationship quality and forming subsequent romantic relationships after breakup did not predict the changes in maternal well-being. Implications for maternal adjustment are discussed.
Reexamining the Writing Apprehension Measure
Authors: Autman Hamlet , Kelly Stephanie
Published: March 2017

This article contains two measurement development studies on writing apprehension. Study 1 reexamines the validity of the writing apprehension measure based on the finding from prior research that a second false factor was embedded. The findings from Study 1 support the validity of a reduced measure with 6 items versus the original 20-item measure. However, this shorter measure had poor reliability. Therefore, Study 2 sought to correct the reliability issue by updating the wording of items so it was applicable to broader platforms of writing. The final measure had excellent reliability and validity statistics.
The monogenic signal of potential-field data: A Python implementation
Authors: Hidalgo-Gato Marlon C. , Barbosa Valéria C. F.
Published: March 2017

We have developed codes to calculate the local amplitude, the local phase, and the local orientation of the nonscale and the Poisson’s scale-space monogenic signals of potential-field data in version 1.0 of the open-source program Monogenic. The monogenic vector of a generic function is calculated in the wavenumber domain and then transformed back into the space domain to find the monogenic signal attributes. We compare the use of the nonscale monogenic signal with the Poisson’s scale-space monogenic signal in magnetic data. This comparison shows that the latter can produce better results as an edge detection filter. The implementation of the monogenic signal can be used to enhance other geophysical data, such as seismic, ground-penetrating radar, gravity, multiple-component gravity gradiometry, and magnetic gradient data.
Sand curve facelift: Empirical to polynomial model and the effect on the tomogram
Authors: Bridle Ralph
Published: March 2017

An empirical thickness versus time relationship sand curve has been established in the Rub’ al-Khali desert and verified by a theoretical curve from the direct measurements of sand. The empirical sand curve has variable success in other areas of Saudi Arabia. We established a theoretical sand curve model to determine the single-way time in dry sand. Tomographic modeling of a higher resolution 3D seismic survey contributes more data to refine the relationship. Polynomial curves were used in the calculation of near-surface static corrections to improve the solution for low-relief structures.
Preference and willingness to pay for nutritional counseling services in urban Hanoi
Authors: Nguyen Hai Viet , Trinh Ngoc Bao , Le Huong Thi , Nguyen Cuong Tat , Mai Hue Thi , Tran Tho Dinh , Le Huong Thi , Tran Bach Xuan , Vu Thuc Thi Minh
Published: March 2017

Background:Despite substantial achievement in reducing malnutrition rates in Vietnam, there has been an increasing rate of overweight individuals in urban areas, which may result in a high burden of non-communicable diseases. Nutritional counseling clinics have been introduced in several settings; however, little is known about the preference for this service among urban clients. This study aimed to assess the preference and willingness to pay (WTP) for nutritional counseling services among urban clients. Methods:We interviewed 429 clients who attended Hanoi Medical University Nutritional Counseling Clinic (Hanoi, Vietnam). WTP was determined using double-bounded dichotomous-choice questions and open-ended questions. Results:In total, 78.6% respondents were willing to use nutritional counseling services. The mean amount of WTP for one-time service and one-year package was 96,100VND (~$4.3) and 946,400VND (~$41.9), respectively. Clients’ willingness to use the service was higher among females, those seeking counseling for elderly people and those who preferred face-to-face counseling services (p<0.05). WTP was higher among those who were over 35 years old, those seeking services for the elderly people, those having poor nutritional status, and those having under-6 year old children (p<0.05). Conclusions:The preference and WTP for nutritional counseling services in urban Hanoi were relatively high. Scaling up this service is necessary to actively prevent and control the spread of non-communicable diseases.
Bases of Scientific Data, Citation Index, and How to Increase It
Authors: Девисилов  , Devisilov Vladimir
Published: March 2017

Scientometrical indicators for scientist activity, scientific magazines, citation indexes, methods of their definition and work with them have been considered. Main bases for scientific data – Scopus, Web of Science, Russian index of scientific citation (Russian science citation index) have been presented, rules of their use and work with them. Merits and demerits of the main scientometrical indicators are analyzed and recommendations for increase of scientist citation index are given. Scientific article’s structure, as well as requirements to its basic elements influencing a paper’s citation level, have been explained, recommendations for preparation of

such paper’s basic elements as its heading, abstract, keywords, citable sources’ bibliography have been given. The structure for the paper’s main text has been considered and recommendations on its writing have been given. A conclusion is drawn that one of the reasons related to low level citation of Russian scientists, and references to publications in Russian magazines is a lack of culture in writing of scientific papers and not observance of their preparation rules that complicates their annotation in bases of scientific data.
Sustaining the Drone Enterprise: How Manpower Analysis Engendered Policy Reform in the United States Air Force
Authors: Martin Kiel M. , Richmond Daniel J. , Swisher John G.
Published: March 2017

The remotely piloted aircraft (RPA), colloquially labeled the “drone,” has become iconic of American military campaigns during this century. However, with surging demand for RPA combat operations, the United States Air Force (USAF) has struggled to train and retain sufficient manpower to operate these aircraft. As part of a recent effort by the Secretary of Defense to stabilize manpower trends in the USAF RPA enterprise, we developed a dynamic manpower projection model to quantify the potential impact of more than 50 policy initiatives. Ultimately, the model showed that a combination of five major policy initiatives would most efficiently and expeditiously improve manpower trends. The Air Force has already begun to implement these initiatives as part of a plan that will affect over 1,100 active-duty airmen operating a multibillion-dollar enterprise. In this paper, we discuss the background and complexity of the RPA manpower problem, the metrics that we used to evaluate the manpower system, and the modeling techniques we employed to inform a comprehensive solution to mitigate this manpower shortfall.
Queues with Server Vacations as a Model for Pretimed Signalized Urban Traffic
Authors: Pacheco António , Simões Maria Lurdes , Milheiro-Oliveira Paula
Published: March 2017

A queuing system resulting from a signalized intersection regulated by pretimed control in a network of urban traffic is considered. Modeling the queue length and the delay of vehicles is crucial to evaluate the performance of intersections equipped with traffic signals. Air quality and rational use of energy also depend on an efficient management of the intersections. These traffic systems have the specificity that the server (green signal) is deactivated (red signal) during a fixed period of time. In the present work, an M/D/1 queue with a server that occasionally takes vacations is analyzed. The mean delays of vehicles and the mean queue length are computed and compared with those obtained by using a detailed simulation model in a case study. We find that, in general, the mean delays of vehicles given by the proposed queuing model provide a good approximation, but the model can provide slightly smaller values than those obtained in the simulation model for large traffic flows. This result is of interest for traffic engineers, as the approaches one can find in the literature for large signalized urban traffic flows are subject to criticism.
An overview of current treatments in heart failure
Authors: Young Sarah
Published: March 2017

Heart failure is a disease with a high morbidity and mortality. The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) updated its clinical guidelines in 2016 to reflect the latest evidence base. This article will provide an overview of current treatments in heart failure based on these updated guidelines. It will outline the use of pharmacological agents, including the newest drug available—sacubitril valsartan—the use of non-pharmacological agents, such as cardiac resynchronisation therapy, and the role of patient education and support. For patients with advanced heart failure, recognising the need for an advanced heart failure assessment and recognising the end of life with palliative care provision, will be discussed. The role of the heart failure nurse specialist will be reviewed as a pivotal part of the heart failure specialist team, particularly with respect to patient monitoring and the up-titration of key heart failure treatments.
Design and Implementation of Planar Fourtear Microstrip Antenna for WLAN and WiMAX Applications
Authors: Paramayudha Ken , Wahyu Yuyu , Sari Aprilia Pustpita , Wijanto Heroe
Published: March 2017

In this paper, the microstrip planar fourtear antenna that operate at frequency range 2300 – 2500 MHz was investigated, Some applications suitable to operate in this frequency are WiMAX at 2.3 and 2.5 GHz and WLAN at 2.4 GHz. Simulations performed with the aid of Finite Element Emthod (FEM) based software which can calculte and comply the appropriate design to be able to operate at the desired working frequency. The analyzed parameters include : SWR, impedance, return loss, radiation patterns, gain, and polarization. From the measurement, bandwidth obtained is equal to 7.69% in the frequency range of 2318,250-2500 MHz in VSWR < 2. Radiation pattern measurement was unidirectional and the polarization was elliptical.
Eventratio diaphragmatica
Authors: Martodipuro Subagjo , Sunarjo Nurjono , Suparto Pitono , Partana L.
Published: March 2017

A diaphragmatic eventration is a displacement of abdominal structures into the thoracic cavity, due to weakness and balooning of the diaphragm (Nelson, 1969). In several aspects it has similarities with a diaphragmatic hernia, i.e. the space occupying effects to the lungs, and the sequences of it. An eventration can be divided in 2 groups, the congenital eventration, where the diaphragm is devoid of mucles and only a membrane is separating the abdominal from the pleural cavity; and the acquired one where the phrenic nerve is damaged, usually due to birth injury; but it can also be caused by any other trauma (Bernado et aI., 1961; Bisono et aI., 1970) such as surgical procedures at the time of thoracotomy, the so called iatrogenic  eventration (Jewett et aI., 1964).
Irritable bowel syndrome and its associated factors in adolescents
Authors: Fillekes Lara , Prayogo Ari , Alatas Fatima Safira , Hegar Badriul
Published: March 2017

Background Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a commonfunctional gastrointestinal disorder. Increasing prevalences havebeen reported in Asian adolescent populations, however, therehave been few reports on Indonesian adolescents.Objective To investigate the prevalence of IBS and associatedfactors among adolescents in Jakarta.Methods This cross-sectional study included senior high schoolstudents in a district of Jakarta. Students were asked to fillquestionnaires based on the Rome III criteria for IBS. They werethen divided into groups: those with IBS and those without IBS,for the purposes of comparison.Results Out of 232 adolescents (145 females and 87 males) withmean age of 16.06 (SD 0.91) years, 14 (6.0%) had IBS. Elevenout of 14 adolescents with IBS reported upper abdominal painas well as periumbilical/lower abdominal pain. Irritable bowelsyndrome was not associated with socioeconomic status, food anddrink habits, the use of antibiotics, or scolding as a parental formof discipline. However, a significant higher proportion in the useof corporal punishment was found in IBS adolescents comparedto the non-IBS (P=0.034). In addition, stress related to scolding,as a parental form of discipline was more likely to be found in theIBS group than in the non-IBS group (P=0.019).Conclusion The prevalence of IBS among adolescents in Jakartais 6%, which is lower compared to those of other Asian countries.Corporal punishment at home and stress related to scolding athome are found to be associated with IBS.
Práticas de literacia familiar, competências linguísticas e desempenho em leitura no primeiro ano de escolaridade
Authors: Salvador Liliana , Martins Margarida Alves
Published: March 2017

Pretendemos com este estudo não só analisar de que forma as práticas de literacia familiar e determinadas variáveis linguísticas podem estar relacionadas com o desempenho em leitura como também perceber quais as práticas e/ou variáveis que melhor predizem a sua aprendizagem. Participaram neste estudo 74 crianças a frequentar o 1º ano do Ensino Básico de várias escolas da região de Lisboa. Os dados foram recolhidos no final do 1º período (consciência fonológica, conhecimento das letras, leitura de palavras e Questionário de Práticas de Literacia Familiar) e no final do 3º período (leitura de palavras). Foram analisadas as diferentes práticas de literacia familiar – treino, rotinas e entretenimento – e a sua relação com os resultados de leitura no final do ano. A mesma análise foi realizada para as variáveis linguísticas. Posteriormente, foi realizada uma análise de regressão, tendo como variável dependente a leitura de palavras final e como variáveis independentes as variáveis linguísticas e as práticas de literacia familiar. Os resultados obtidos mostram que as práticas de literacia familiar estão moderadamente relacionadas com a leitura e fortemente relacionadas com as variáveis linguísticas. Os melhores preditores de leitura no final do ano são o conhecimento das letras e a leitura de palavras inicial.
Exploring the professional self-efficacy perceptions of the teachers of children in need of special education in terms of various variables
Özel eğitim gereksinimli çocukların öğretmenlerinin mesleki özyeterlilik algılarının çeşitli değişkenlere göre incelenmesi
Authors: Gerez Cantimer Gülşah , Şengül Sare , Akçin Nur
Published: March 2017

The need for special education is gaining importance each passing day with increasing the number of children in need of special education. Since self-efficacy perceptions of teachers of children in need of special education which is related their field will shape the education given, the identifying current situation is seen important for resolving deficienciens. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to develop “The Special Education Teachers’ Sense of Professional Self-Efficacy Scale (SET-SPSES)” (Study I) and reveal whether the level of professional self-efficacy perceptions of the special education teachers show differences depending on a variety of variables (gender, age, educational background, professional experience, and special needs of students) (Study II). SET-SPSES was found to be a suitable instrument in accordance with Study II that was made the validity and the reliability. The research was carried out with 464 teachers graduating from a special education program and working in the academic year of 2013-2014 in Istanbul. According to the research findings; it was determined that the special education teachers had an adequate level of teaching self-efficacy perception and that their perceptions did not significantly vary by gender, age, professional experience, and special needs of students, but significantly varied by education level.  ÖzetÖzel eğitim gereksinimli çocukların sayısının her geçen gün artmasıyla özel eğitime duyulan ihtiyaç önem kazanmaktadır. Özel eğitim gereksinimli çocukların öğretmenlerinin alanlarına yönelik özyeterlilik algıları verdikleri eğitimi şekillendireceğinden varolan durumun tespit edilmesi eksiklerin giderilmesi adına önemli görülmektedir. Bu nedenle çalışmada “Özel Eğitim Öğretmenlerinin Mesleki Özyeterlilik Algısı Ölçeği (ÖEÖ-MÖAÖ)” geliştirilerek (Çalışma I) özel eğitim öğretmenlerinin mesleki özyeterlilik algılarının düzeylerinin çeşitli değişkenlere (cinsiyet, yaş, öğrenim durumu, mesleki deneyim ve öğrencinin özel gereksinim durumu) göre farklılık gösterip göstermediğinin ortaya konulması (Çalışma II) amaçlanmıştır. Çalışma I’de yapılan geçerlik ve güvenirlik çalışmaları doğrultusunda Özel Eğitim Öğretmenlerinin Mesleki Özyeterlilik Algısı Ölçeği’nin kullanılabilir özelliklere sahip olduğu bulunmuştur. Araştırma 2013-2014 eğitim-öğretim yılında İstanbul ilinde görev yapmakta olan toplam 464 özel eğitim alan mezunu öğretmen ile gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırma bulgularına göre; özel eğitim öğretmenlerinin mesleki özyeterlilik algılarının yeterli düzeyde olduğu; cinsiyet, yaş, mesleki deneyim ve öğrencinin özel gereksinim durumu ile anlamlı bir farklılık göstermediği, öğrenim durumu ile anlamlı bir farklılık gösterdiği belirlenmiştir.
Are Auditors at Fault for the Collapse of Financial Institutions in Lithuania?
Authors: Kiršienė Julija , Misevičiūtė Gabrielė
Published: March 2017

The experience of the global financial crisis revealed that while many financial institutions were allowed to take excessive risks, the auditors failed in their duties to reasonably evaluate those risks as well as to inform the investing public about them. The issues of statutory auditors' liability and their public role are particularly relevant in Lithuania, considering the fact that over just the past few years the third and the fourth largest banks in Lithuania turned out to be insolvent. Analysis of legal actions against auditors of these banks highlighted certain shortcomings in the audit market and auditors' liability regulation, related to the quality and transparency of audit reports, auditors' accountability and independence requirements, and insurance of auditors’ liability.

In the first part of the paper the case analysis of Ernst & Young Baltic’s responsibility for Snoras bankruptcy as well as Deloitte’s responsibility for Ūkio bankas’ insolvency, and discussion of the cases, are presented. The second part of the paper deals with the changes in regulation of the audit market in Lithuania and Europe, and issues left outside the reform.
Verification of propofol sulfate as a further human propofol metabolite using LC-ESI-QQQ-MS and LC-ESI-QTOF-MS analysis
Authors: Maas Alexandra , Maier Christoph , Michel-Lauter Beate , Broecker Sebastian , Madea Burkhard , Hess Cornelius
Published: March 2017

Background:

Propofol (2,6-diisopropylphenol) is a water-insoluble, intravenous anesthetic that is widely used for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia as well as for endoscopic and pediatric sedation. After admission, propofol undergoes extensive hepatic and extrahepatic metabolism, including direct conjugation to propofol glucuronide and hydroxylation to 2,6-diisopropyl-1,4-quinol. The latter substance subsequently undergoes phase II metabolism, resulting in the formation of further metabolites (1quinolglucuronide, 4quinolglucuronide and 4quinol-sulfate). Further minor phase I propofol metabolites (2-(ω-propanol)-6-isopropylphenol and 2-(ω-propanol)-6-isopropyl-1,4-quinol)) are also described. Due to its chemical structure with the phenolic hydroxyl group, propofol is also an appropriate substrate for sulfation by sulfotransferases.

Methods:

The existence of propofol sulfate was investigated by liquid chromatography electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LCESIQQQ-MS) and liquid chromatography electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LCESI-QTOF-MS). A propofol sulfate reference standard was used for identification and method development, yielding a precursor at m/z 257 (deprotonated propofol sulfate) and product ions at m/z 177 (deprotonated propofol) and m/z 80 ([SO3]−).

Results:

Propofol sulfate – a further phase II metabolite of propofol – was verified in urine samples by LC-ESI-QQQ-MS and LC-ESI-QTOF-MS. Analyses of urine samples from five volunteers collected before and after propofol-induced sedation verified the presence of propofol sulfate in urine following propofol administration, whereas ascertained concentrations of this metabolite were significantly lower compared with detected propofol glucuronide concentrations.

Conclusions:

The existence of propofol sulfate as a further phase II propofol metabolite in humans could be verified by two different detection techniques (LCESIQQQ-MS and LC-ESI-QTOFMS) on the basis of a propofol sulfate reference standard. Evaluation of the quantitative analyses of propofol sulfate imply that propofol sulfate represents a minor metabolite of propofol and is only slightly involved in human propofol clearance.
Exploring leadership styles for innovation: an exploratory factor analysis
Authors: Wipulanusat Warit , Panuwatwanich Kriengsak , Stewart Rodney A.
Published: March 2017

Leadership plays a vital role in building the process, structures, and climate for an organisation to become innovative and to motivate team expectations toward innovations. This study explores the leadership styles that engineers regard as significant for innovation in the public sector. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted to identify the principal leadership styles influencing innovation in the Australian Public Service (APS), using survey data extracted from the 2014 APS employee census comprising 3 125 engineering professionals in Commonwealth of Australia departments. EFA returned a two-factor structure explaining 77.6% of the variance of the leadership for innovation construct. In this study, the results from the EFA provided a clear estimation of the factor structure of the measures for leadership for innovation. From the results, the two factors extracted were transformational leadership and consideration leadership. In transformational leadership, a leader values organisational objectives, inspires subordinates to perform, and motivates followers beyond expected levels of work standards. Consideration leadership refers to the degree to which a leader shows concern and expressions of support for subordinates, takes care of their welfare, treats members as equals, and displays warmth and approachability. These findings highlight the role of leadership as the most critical predictor when considering the degree to which subordinates strive for creativity and innovation. Both transformational and consideration leadership styles are recommended to be incorporated into management training and development programs. This study also recommends that Commonwealth departments recruit supervisors who have both of these leadership styles before implementing innovative projects.