bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prevalence and spectrum of atypical glandular cells in Dubai hospital: A local experience
Authors:   Cytology unit, Dubai hospital, Dubai, UAE, SAMUEL RAVIRANI , ABDULRAZZAQ MANAL M.M. ,   Cytology unit, Dubai hospital, Dubai, UAE, ABDULLGAFFAR BADR ,   Pathology section, Rashid hospital, Dubai, UAE, HOTAIT HASSAN Y. ,   Histology unit, Dubai hospital, Dubai, UAE, AL-SHARHAN MOUZA ,   Pathology section, Dubai hospital. Cytology unit, Dubai Hospital, Dubai, UAE
Published: September 2017

Objective : This study was undertaken to analyze the prevalence and spectrum of atypical glandular cells to investigate its clinical significance in our population. Study design : A 5 year retrospective review of atypical glandular cells diagnosed on ThinPrep pap test was performed. AGC were reported in 40 patients, who underwent colposcopy- directed biopsy, endocervical curettage and endometrial curettage to determine the cytological and histological correlations of AGC. Results : The prevalence of AGC was 0.2% out of 19836 patients. The patients age ranged from 29 to 81 years (mean age 49.4 years). Significant lesions were defined as Squamous Intraepithelial lesion (SIL), adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) or invasive carcinoma. This included 2 invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix, 2 high grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, 2 AIS, 5 adenocarcinoma of the cervix, two of which had low grade and high grade squamous intraepithelial lesions one of which was consistent with metastastic colonic carcinoma and 5 endometrial adenocarcinoma, one of which was suspicious of breast carcinoma. The chi-square value was significant at 99% confidence interval. Conclusion : AGC were associated with clinically significant lesions in 40% of our cases.. Significant endocervical glandular lesions occurred in younger women whereas the older women had endometrial lesions.. Patients with AGC should be followed up for a substantial period despite initial negative histological findings.
Standardization of Some Commercial Anti-diabetic Herbal Products containing Syzygiumcumini
Authors:   Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala – 147001, Punjab, India, Kaur Jasmeen , Singla Munish ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala – 147001, Punjab, India, Saini Balraj ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala – 147001, Punjab, India, Bansal Gulshan ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Punjabi University, Patiala – 147001, Punjab, India
Published: September 2017

An isocratic HPLC method was developed for standardization of five commercially available products containing S. cumini seeds (DIABECON, MADHULENE, HYPONIDD, D-FIT and DIABEGON)using methylxanthoxylin (MXX)as marker. The method was validated in accordance with ICH Q2(R1) guidelines. The chromatographic separation of MXX was achieved on a C18 column by mobile phase composed of methanol and water (60:40%v/v) at a flow rate 0.5 mL/min. The eluent was detected at 280 nm. The method was linear over concentration of 1-200 μg/mL with correlation coefficient of 0.9999. The LOD and LOQ were 0.175 and 0.530 µg/mL, respectively. The method was precise (%RSD <0.31), accurate and robust for determination of MXX in herbal extracts. The content of MXX in the seed extract was found to be 0.0433%w/w while it was ranging from 0.026- 0.041%w/w in the products. The content of MXX was found to be equivalent to the pure seed extract only in DIABECON tablets and D-FIT soft gelatine capsules while it was found to be significantly less in the other formulations.
Pharmacognostic Standardization of Biophytum Sensitivum Dc
Authors:   Department of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, Hindu College of Pharmacy, Sonipat-131001, India, KUMAR SURESH ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug research, Punjabi University, Patiala-147002, India
Published: September 2017

Biophytum sensitivum DC. (Family – Oxalidaceae) is a traditional drug used in treating various ailments especially in mental disorders. The present study was envisaged to establish pharmacognostic standards of the plant so that authentic plant can be selected for research purpose. Heavy metal content, microbial load, aflatoxins contamination and pesticide residues were also examined to substantiate the standardization data. Transverse section of the root was cut and showed the presence of root hair, cork, cortex, pericyclic region, vascular bundles and pith whereas the stem showed the presence of trichomes, cork, cortex, pericylic fibres, xylem and phloem. Alcohol soluble extractive value was slightly higher than water soluble extractive values. Total ash, water soluble ash, acid-insoluble ash and sulphated ash were found to be 8.80, 5.26, 1.90 and 0.35% w/w respectively. Foreign matter, loss on drying, swelling index and foaming index were found to be nil, 8.50% w/w, nil, and less than 100 ml respectively. Microbial load, heavy metals and pesticide residues complied with the limits as described by WHO. Flavonoids, tannins, saponins, proteins and amino acids were present in the plant.
Analytical Review on Raloxifene -An Estrogen Receptor Modulator in Different Pharmaceutical Formulations and Biological Fluids
Authors:   Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, R. C. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical education and Research, Shirpur, Dist. Dhule - 425405, India, GUJAR ASHWINI V. , MUNDADA ANAND B. ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, R. C. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical education and Research, Shirpur, Dist. Dhule - 425405, India, SHIRKHEDKAR ATUL A. SHIRKHEDKAR ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, R. C. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical education and Research, Shirpur, Dist. Dhule - 425405, India
Published: September 2017

Raloxifene (RLX) is an oral selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). It is showing estrogenic action on bone and anti-estrogenic action on uterus and breast. An extensive literature has been published for analysis of RLX in different pharmaceutical formulations. This review article endeavor to provide the detail account on analytical methods for RLX and also validation details for its readers. It further helps to avoid costly chemicals and time consuming exercises for further investigation of RLX.
A Study of Prescribing Habits of Low Molecular Weight Heparin in Cardiovascular Disease in Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors:   Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Dwivedi Madhaw , Biradar S. M. ,   Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, BLDEA’s College of Pharmacy, Bijapur, Pandey Ajay ,   Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, BLDEA’s College of Pharmacy, Bijapur, Ambali Anand P. ,   BLDEU’s Shri B.M. Patil Medical College Hospital, Bijapur, Sharma Rishu ,   Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura
Published: September 2017

Background and Objective: Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) are the leading non-communicable diseases and also leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWHs) is frequently prescribed medication in CVDs. Prescribing pattern of LMWHs in CVDs is necessary to recommends modifications to achieve rational and cost-effective medical care. Methodology: An inpatients hospital based observational prospective study for a period of six months was carried out. Data was collected from patient medication sheet and analyzed by suitable methods and standard references. Results and Discussion: In our study, a total of 120 patients were enrolled out of 120 patients 84 were male and 36 were female. Antiplatelet drug is maximum prescribing drug in 98 (81.34%) patients out of 120, then after hypolipidaemic drugs in 94 (78.02%), Anticoagulant in 92 (76.36%), Antibiotics in 90 (74.70%), Antianginal in 69 (57.27), Antihypertensive in 64 (53.12%), Diuretics in 59 (48.97%). LMWHs are prescribed in 78 (65%) in which Enoxaparin is prescribed in 67(55%) and Dalteparin in 11(10%) patients out of 120 patients. Total 259 Drug-Drug Interactions (DDI) were found in which 67 were Major, 140 were Moderate, and 52 were Minor. Conclusion: The study show LMWHs are highly prescribed category of anticoagulant. Enoxaparin is prescribed morethan Dalteparin. Antiplatelet drugs are prescribed to every patient who is prescribed with LMWHs to prevent embolic event. Chance of DDI is increases with these combinations. LMWHs and Fibrinolytic drugs are very costly and impart maximum economic burden to middle class family.
Cold Chain: A Lynchpin of National Immunization Program
Authors:   Indian Institute of Health Management Research, 1, Prabhudayal Marg, Near Sanganer Airport, Jaipur, Rajasthan – 302029, India, Peepliwal Ashok
Published: September 2017

Cold chain management (CCM), a lynchpin of National Immunization Program (NIP) is to deliver the vaccines or other immunological products/ vaccines to right people, at right place, and in right time ineffective manner under the controlled conditions to ensure its potency. To comply it, CCM is required with standardized equipment’s and standard procedures to transport the immunological products to ensure the availability of high-quality vaccines and immunization-related materials to all levels of the program. It is vital to ensure accurate implementation of pertinent strategies focusing on vaccine storage; transportation, immunization, safety, management & monitoring. If the CCM is managed properly, the program costs can be reduced markedly without sacrificing the potency of product. Apart from that, high and unwanted vaccine wastage rates are due to poorly managed planning resulting into significant variation in operation program cost, improper management of waste with the negative impact on public health. The review enlightens on how vaccines are stored, transported and monitored to sustain immunological products/vaccines integrity throughout the way of their transportation emphasizing on the various equipment’s and logistic needs to cover the entire cold chain management rigorously till the reach of target population child/mother at the primary healthcare centers(PHCs).
COMPORTAMENTO MECÂNICO DO COMPÓSITO PRFV QUANDO IMERSO EM ÁGUA DO MAR POR TEMPO PROLONGADO
Authors: Cunha Ricardo Alex Dantas da , Santos Jayna Kátia Dionísio , Felipe Renata Carla Tavares dos Santos , Felipe Raimundo Nonato Barbosa
Published: September 2017

No setor industrial, materiais que apresentem bom desempenho mecânico atrelado com uma vida útil elevada e a uma boa relação custo/benefício vem a cada dia sendo mais procurado, diante disso, os materiais compósitos, dentre eles os compósitos poliméricos fibrosos estão a cada dia  sendo mais utilizados, pois estes desempenham determinadas funções que os materiais convencionais não conseguem desempenhar. No entanto, em se tratando dos compósitos poliméricos é importante que se saiba de fato qual o comportamento que este material tem quando está em situações adversas como em contanto com os fluidos de processo ou até mesmo com calor.  Desta forma, o objetivo dessa pesquisa foi desenvolver um compósito utilizando uma matriz polimérica de resina poliéster com reforço fibroso de manta de vidro-E, onde este foi imerso em água do mar por um período de 1460 dias. Os corpos de prova (CP’s) foram submetidos ao ensaio de tração uniaxial, buscando determinar resistência e módulo de tração. Feito isso, realizou-se um comparativo das propriedades mecânicas para todas as condições de ensaio como estado seco e água do mar. Além disso, foi caracterizada a fratura final dos CP’s para a condição de imersão.  Ao término dos ensaios observou-se perda nas propriedades mecânicas para a condição de ensaio de tração após o período de imersão, porém esta perda não invalida o seu uso uma vez considerando estes parâmetros durante a elaboração do projeto estrutural.
Motivation zur Statistik – Computergestützt lernen in der Statistik Austria
Authors: Dinges Gerlinde , Templ Matthias
Published: September 2017

Dem ständigen wissenschaftlichen Fortschritt Rechnung tragend bietet Statistik Austria Interessierten die Möglichkeit, in methodischen Grundlagenkursen aktuelles statistisches Basiswissen zu erlangen, oder bereits erworbene Kenntnisse aufzufrischen und zu erweitern. Um mathematische Kursinhalte und komplexe Zusammenhänge möglichst kompakt und für alle verständlich zu transportieren, haben die Autoren des Artikels ein spezielles computergestütztes Statistiktraining entwickelt, welches seit 2005 imRahmen hausinterner Mitarbeiterschulungen erfolgreich Anwendung findet. Das Lernsystem ist für die moderne computergestützte Lehre konzipiert und soll durch den hier präsentierten Einblick auch anderen Lehrenden oder Institutionen als alternative Idee oder mögliches Konzept einer effektiven Kursgestaltung vorgestellt werden.
On Boundary Correction in Kernel Estimation of ROC Curves
Authors: Koláček Jan , Karunamuni Rohana J.
Published: September 2017

The Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve is a statistical tool for evaluating the accuracy of diagnostics tests. The empirical ROC curve (which is a step function) is the most commonly used non-parametric estimator for the ROC curve. On the other hand, kernel smoothing methods have been used to obtain smooth ROC curves. The preceding process is based on kernel estimates of the distribution functions. It has been observedthat kernel distribution estimators are not consistent when estimating a distribution function near the boundary of its support. This problem is due to “boundary effects” that occur in nonparametric functional estimation. To avoid these difficulties, we propose a generalized reflection method of boundary correction in the estimation problem of ROC curves. The proposed method generates a class of boundary corrected estimators.
Skewed Reflected Distributions Generated by the Laplace Kernel
Authors: Masoom Ali M. , Pal Manisha , Woo Jungsoo
Published: September 2017

In this paper we construct some skewed distributions with pdfs of the form 2f(u)G(¸u), where ¸ is a real number, f(¢) is taken to be a Laplace pdf while the cdf G(¢) comes from one of Laplace, double Weibull, reflected Pareto, reflected beta prime, or reflected generalized uniform distribution. Properties of the resulting distributions are studied. In particular, expressions for the moments of these distributions and the characteristic functions are derived. However, as some of these quantities could not be evaluated inclosed forms, special functions have been used to express them. Graphical illustrations of the pdfs of the skewed distributions are also given. Further, skewness-kurtosis graphs for these distributions have been drawn.
Optimum Times for Step-Stress Cumulative Exposure Model Using Log-Logistic Distribution with Known Scale Parameter
Authors: Al-Masri Abedel-Qader , Al-Haj Ebrahem Mohammed
Published: September 2017

In this paper we assume that the life time of a test unit follows a log-logistic distribution with known scale parameter. Tables of optimum times of changing stress level for simple step-stress plans under a cumulative exposure model are obtained by minimizing the asymptotic variance of the maximum likelihood estimator of the model parameters at the design stress with respect to the change time.
Book Reviews
Authors: Müller Werner , Potuschak Heinrich
Published: September 2017

Ulrich KOHLER und Frauke KREUTER (2008). Datenanalyse mit Stata. AllgemeineKonzepte der Datenanalyse und ihre praktische Anwendung (3. aktualisierte undüberarbeitete Auflage) München, Oldenbourg Verlag, 398 S., ISBN 978-3-486-58456-1.(broschiert e34,80)Gerhard MARINELL und Gabriele STECKEL-BERGER (2008). Einführung in die Statistik(2. Auflage) München, Oldenbourg Verlag, 236 S., ISBN 978-3-486-58713-5. (broschierte29,80)
Did C. S. Lewis write The Dark Tower?: An Examination of the Small-Sample Properties of the Thisted-Efron Tests of Authorship
Authors: Thompson Jeffrey R. , Rasp John
Published: September 2017

The Dark Tower is a fragment of a science fiction novel, attributed to C.S. Lewis and published posthumously. Shortly after its publication controversy arose, questioning the work’s provenance and authenticity. This controversy still continues. We apply and extend procedures developed by Thisted and Efron (1987) to investigate whether word usage in The Dark Tower is similar to that in Out of the Silent Planet and Perelandra, two worksof the same genre and period known to be by Lewis. We further examine the validity and limitations of these procedures in the case at hand. Our results show vocabulary usage in The Dark Tower differs from that predicted by the baseline Lewis works.
A Semiparametric Sequential Ordinal Model with Applications to Analyse First Birth Intervals
Authors: Kazembe Lawrence
Published: September 2017

A semiparametric sequential ordinal model is proposed to analyze socio-demographic and spatial determinants of first birth intervals after marriage. Random effects are introduced to capture spatially structured and unstructured latent covariates. The structured effects are modelled by assuming conditional autoregressive priors, and for the unstructured effects we use an exchangeable Gaussian prior, while the smooth effects of continuous covariatesare modelled by penalized splines. Inference is based on the mixed model approach. The model is applied to data from a cross-sectional survey. Compared to a spatial parametric predictor, the spatial semiparametric model better fits the data.
A Measure of Departure from Average Symmetry for Square Contingency Tables with Ordered Categories
Authors: Tahata Kouji , Yamamoto Kouji , Nagatani Noriyuki , Tomizawa Sadao
Published: September 2017

For the analysis of square contingency tables, Tomizawa (1994), Tomizawa, Seo, and Yamamoto (1998), and Tomizawa, Miyamoto, and Hatanaka (2001) considered measures to represent the degree of departure from symmetry. However, the maximum value of these measures cannot distinguish two kinds of complete asymmetry (say, complete-upper-asymmetry and complete-lower-asymmetry). The present paper proposes a measure which can distinguish two kinds of complete asymmetry for square tables with ordered categories. Especially the proposed measure is useful for representingthe degree of departure from symmetry when the conditional symmetry model holds. Examples are given.
Effectivity of Modified Maximum Likelihood Estimators Using Selected Ranked Set Sampling Data
Authors: Islam Tamanna , Shaibur Molla Rahman , Hossain S.S.
Published: September 2017

This paper describes the modified maximum likelihood estimator (MMLE) of location and scale parameters based on selected ranked set sampling (SRSS) for normal, uniform and two-parameter exponential distributions. For these distributions, the MMLE of location and scale parameters for SRSS data were compared with the estimators of location and scale parameters for simple random sample (SRS) and ranked set sample (RSS). The MMLE based on SRSS data were found to be advantageous as compared to SRS and RSS estimators for the same number of measurements. The SRSS method with errors in ranking was also described. The minimum correlation between the actual and erroneous ranking was required for MMLE of SRSS to achieve better precision than usual SRS and RSS estimators. When the wrong assumption about the underlying distribution was present, the MMLE of the population mean based on SRSS was better than the RSS estimator ofthe population mean for all the cases considered.
Bootstrap Statistical Inference for the Variance Based on Fuzzy Data
Authors: Akbari Mohammad Ghasem , Rezaei Abdolhamid
Published: September 2017

The bootstrap is a simple and straightforward method for calculating approximated biases, standard deviations, confidence intervals, testing statistical hypotheses, and so forth, in almost any nonparametric estimation problem. In this paper we describe a bootstrap method for variance that is designed directly for hypothesis testing in case of fuzzy data based on Yao-Wu signed distance.
Book Reviews: Rainer SCHLITTGEN (2009). Multivariate Statistik.
Authors: Stadlober Ernst
Published: September 2017

Rainer SCHLITTGEN (2009). Multivariate Statistik. München, Oldenbourg Verlag,XII+559 S., ISBN 978-3-486-58597-7. (e49,80).
A Corrected Criterion for Selecting the Optimum Number of Principal Components
Authors: Kazianka Hannes , Pilz Jürgen
Published: September 2017

Determining the optimum number of components to be retained is a key problem in principal component analysis (PCA). Besides the rule of thumb estimates there exist several sophisticated methods for automatically selecting the dimensionality of the data. Based on the probabilistic PCA model Minka (2001) proposed an approximate Bayesian model selection criterion. In this paper we correct this criterion and present a modified version. We compare the novel criterion with various other approaches in a simulationstudy. Furthermore, we use it for finding the optimum number of principal components in hyper-spectral skin cancer images.
Probability-Sampling Approach to Editing
Authors: Ilves Maiki , Laitila Thomas
Published: September 2017

Editing for measurement errors is always part of data processing. In traditional editing, all data records are checked for errors and inconsistencies. In a new way of editing, only the subset with the most important erroneous responses is considered for editing. This approach is applied in selective editing procedures, which have been shown to save resources considerably. However, selective editing lacks a probabilistic basis and the properties of estimators cannot be established using standard methods. In particular,bias properties of the estimator are unknown except for level estimates based on historical data. This paper proposes combining selective editing with an editing procedure based on the traditional probability-sampling framework. The variance of a bias-corrected Horvitz-Thompson estimator is derived and a variance estimator is proposed. The results of a simulation study support the use of the combined editing procedure.
Ridit Score Type Quasi-Symmetry and Decomposition of Symmetry for Square Contingency Tables with Ordered Categories
Authors: Iki Kiyotaka , Tahata Kouji , Tomizawa Sadao
Published: September 2017

For square contingency tables with the same row and column ordinal classifications, this paper proposes the quasi-symmetry model based on the marginal ridits. The model indicates that the log-odds that an observation will fall in the (i; j) cell instead of in the (j; i) cell, i < j, is proportional to the difference between the average ridit score of row and column marginal distributions for category j and that for category i. This paper also gives atheorem such that the symmetry model holds if and only if both the proposed model and the marginal mean equality model hold. Examples are given.
Properties of the Standard Deviation that are Rarely Mentioned in Classrooms
Authors: Al-Saleh Mohammad Fraiwan , Yousif Adil Eltayeb
Published: September 2017

Unlike the mean, the standard deviation ¾ is a vague concept. In this paper, several properties of ¾ are highlighted. These properties include the minimum and the maximum of ¾, its relationship to the mean absolute deviation and the range of the data, its role in Chebyshev’s inequality and the coefficient of variation. The hidden information in the formula itself is extracted. The confusion about the denominator of the sample variance being n ¡ 1 is also addressed. Some properties of the sample mean and varianceof normal data are carefully explained. Pointing out these and other properties in classrooms may have significant effects on the understanding and the retention of the concept.
Book Reviews
Authors: Stadlober Ernst , Pamminger Christoph
Published: September 2017

Johannes LEDOLTER, Robert V. HOGG (2010). Applied Statistics for Engineers andPhysical Sciences (3rd Edition). Upper Saddle River, Prentice Hall, 591 pp, ISBN 978-0-13-601798-3. ($134,.67)Joachim HARTUNG (2009). Statistik. Lehr- und Handbuch der angewandten Statistik.(15., überarbeitete und wesentlich erweiterte Auflage)München, Oldenbourg Verlag,1145 S., ISBN 978-3-486-59028-9. (e64.80)Günter BAMBERG, Franz BAUR, Michael KNAPP (2009). Statistik. (15. Auflage)M¨unchen,Oldenbourg Verlag, 322 S., ISBN 978-3-486-59088-3. (e19.80)
The Emergence of Item Response Theory Models and the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information Systems
Authors: Reise Steven P.
Published: September 2017

Item response theory (IRT) models emerged to solve practical testing problems in large-scale cognitive achievement and aptitude assessment. Within the last decade, an explosion of IRT applications have occurred in the non-cognitive domain. In this report, I highlight the development, implementation, and results of a single project: Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information Systems (PROMIS). The PROMIS projectreflects the state-of-the-art application of IRT in the non-cognitive domain, and has produced important advancements in patient reported outcomes measurement.However, the project also illustrates challenges that confront researchers wishing to apply IRT to non-cognitive constructs. These challenges are: a) selecting a population to set the metric for interpretation of item parameters, b) working with non-normal quasi-continuous latent traits, and c) working with narrow-bandwidth constructs that potentially have a limitedpool of potential indicators. Differences between cognitive and non-cognitive measurement contexts are discussed and directions for future research suggested.
On Varying Item Difficulty by Changing the Response Format for a Mathematical Competence Test
Authors: Hohensinn Christine , Kubinger Klaus D.
Published: September 2017

Educational and psychological aptitude and achievement tests employ a variety of different response formats. Today the predominating format is a multiple-choice format with a single correct answer option (at most out of altogether four answer options) because of the possibility for fast, economical and objective scoring. But it is often mentioned that multiple-choice questions are easier than those with constructed response format, for whichthe examinee has to create the solution without answer options. The present study investigates the influence of three different response formats on the difficulty of an item using stem-equivalent items in a mathematical competence test. Impact of formats is modelled applying the Linear Logistic Test model (Fischer, 1974) appertaining to Item Response Theory. In summary, the different response formats measure the same latent trait but bias the difficulty of the item.
A Microanalytical Simulation Model to Predict the Long-Term Evolution of Employment Biographies in Austria: The Demographics Module
Authors: Wurzer Marcus , Hatzinger Reinhold
Published: September 2017

The well-known problems of decreasing birth rates and population ageing represent a major challenge for the Austrian pension system. It is expected that the group of pensioners will grow steadily in the future, while the proportion of people that support them – the taxpayers – will shrink. In this regard, microsimulation provides a valuable tool to identify the impact of various policy measures. With microsimulation, it is not only possibleto predict cross-sectional data (e.g., the distribution of age groups in 2050), but also to simulate lifecourses of people, providing longitudinal outcomes. The demographics module is the first in a series of modules that are part of a microsimulation prototype. This prototype is being developed in order to predict the long-term evolution of Employment Biographies in Austria.
The Future of Transport Surveys: Users’ Requirements for Official Transport Statistics
Authors: Fürst Elmar Wilhelm M.
Published: September 2017

Official transport statistics is a broad, complex and important domain in the area of official statistics. Due to the dynamics of transport markets, their economic framework and legal regulation as well as the evolving challenges for transport economics, companies, research and policy the statistical users’ needs are also subject to continuous change. This article presents the main results of a study conducted by the Institute of Transport and LogisticsManagement at Vienna University of Economics and Business which focused on the requirements on future developments in the field of official transport statistics from the users’ perspective.
Is Federer Stronger in a TournamentWithout Nadal? An Evaluation of Odds and Seedings for Wimbledon 2009
Authors: Leitner Christoph , Zeileis Achim , Hornik Kurt
Published: September 2017

Wimbledon is one of the most popular annual sports tournament. In the Men’s Single 2009 the top seeded and defending champion Rafael Nadal withdrew from the tournament due to injury days prior to the tournament. Here, we try to analyze the effects of Nadal’s withdrawal especially on the ability/strength of the main competitor Roger Federer by using bookmakers expectancies to estimate the unknown abilities of the players and comparethem for two different odds sets. The comparison shows that the bookmakersdid not incorporate Nadal’s withdrawal adequately, assigning too high expected winning probabilities to Federer and Murray.
Efficient Generalized Ratio-Product Type Estimators for Finite Population Mean with Ranked Set Sampling
Authors: Mandowara V.L. , Mehta Nitu
Published: September 2017

In this paper we suggest two modified estimators of the population mean using the power transformation based on ranked set sampling (RSS). The first order approximation of the bias and of the mean squared error of the proposed estimators are obtained. A generalized version of the suggested estimators by applying the power transformation is also presented. Theoretically, it is shown that these suggested estimators are more efficient than the estimators in simple random sampling (SRS). A numerical illustration is also carried out to demonstrate the merits of the proposed estimators using RSS over the usual estimators in SRS.
Upcrossing Rates for Order Statistics Processes
Authors: Alodat M.T. , Al-Rawwash M.
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we define new random processes as the pointwiseorder statistics of a set of random processes. We derive the upcrossing ratesof the order statistics processes in closed form. Also, we establish relationsbetween the average duration of the order statistics processes and the averageduration of their component processes. Finally, we obtain the asymptoticdistribution of the excess heights of the new processes.
Some Statistics concerning the Austrian Presidential Election 2016
Authors: Neuwirth Erich , Schachermayer Walter
Published: September 2017

The 2016 Austrian presidential runoff election have been repealed by the Austrian constitutional court. The results of the counted votes had yielded a victory of Alexander van der Bellen by a margin of 30.863 votes as compared to the votes for Norbert Hofer. However, the constitutional court found that 77.769 votes were ``contaminated'' as there have been - at least on a formal level - violations of the legal procedure when counting those votes. For example, the envelopes were opened prematurely, or not all the members of the electoral board were present during the counting etc. Hence the court considered the scenario that the irregular counting of these votes might have caused a reversal of the result as {\it possible}. The constitutional court sentenced that this {\it possibility} presents a sufficient irregularity in order to order a repetition of the entire election.While it is, of course, {\it possible} that the irregular counting of those 77.769 votes reversed the result, we shall show that the probability, that this indeed has happened, is ridiculously low.
Medical treatment of endometriosis: an update
Authors: Ezzat Laila
Published: September 2017

Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial-like tissue (glands and stroma) outside the uterus, which induces a chronic inflammatory reaction, scar tissue, and adhesions that may distort a woman’s pelvic anatomy. Endometriosis is primarily found in young women, but its occurrence is not related to ethnic or social group distinctions. Patients with endometriosis mainly complain of pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and dyspareunia. Endometriosis is a very common debilitating disease that occurs in 6 to 10% of the general female population; in women with pain, infertility, or both, the frequency is 35-50%. This is an evidence based narrative review conducted by searching Medline up to (2017) and other online articles from Pubmed, Google scholar by using terms like Endometriosis, management, evidence based, updated treatment, pharmacoceutical hormon treatment and non-hormonal treatment. Articles were selected based on their currency and relevance to the discussion. Numerous cofactors can play a role in the progression and maintenance of endometriosis, which is thus a complex multifactorial disease. Hormonal therapy represents the treatment of choice in patients with endometriosis; with this in mind, we could consider CAM a supplementary option to be added to hormonal treatment, or as a valuable opportunity for those women in whom medical therapy is contraindicated.
Near miss maternal mortality, who is responsible? Administration, healthcare system or the people themselves
Authors: Tyagi Smita
Published: September 2017

Background: The concept of maternal near miss is assumed to be a better indicator than maternal mortality alone for designing, monitoring, follow up and evaluation of safe motherhood programmes. Objective of present study was to find out the causes of near miss maternal mortality according to WHO and to prevent it.Methods: It is a prospective study of one year. Cases of maternal near miss were diagnosed and treated according to WHO definitions, which included severe maternal complications, life threatening conditions and critical interventions.Results: In present study hemorrhage (53%) was the leading cause of maternal near miss followed by hypertension (26%) rupture uterus (13%) and obstructed labour (6.6%). Anemia is the major contributory factor (93%) of near miss in present study.Conclusions: To reduce near miss cases there should be major policy changes at the administrative level, it should be well implemental at the health care level and last but not the least people should be made aware of these schemes specialty by TV. Internet and smart phones in this high tech 21st century.
A study on foetal outcome after diagnosis of oligohydramnios at term in tertiary care center
Authors: M. Sunanda K. , C. Sudha H.
Published: September 2017

Background: Oligohydramnios is associated with a variety of ominous pregnancy outcomes such as foetal distress, low birth weight, perinatal morbidity and increased incidence of Caesarean section. Objective of present study was to determine the outcome of maternal and Foetal wellbeing after diagnosis of oligohydramnios at term pregnancy.Methods: 50 pregnant women aged between 18 – 27 years were screened with history of oligohydramnios by ultrasound scanning after 37 completed weeks, compared with 50 controls with no oligohydramnios.Results: The mean age of the study group was 22.7 years and of the control group was 22.4 years, respectively. Majority of the patients were primigravidae in both the groups. The mean gestational age was 39.5 weeks in study group and 39.4 in control group. The occurrence of non reactive NST was more in study group compared to the control group. The efficacy of AFI as a screening test to predict foetal distress is more significant with Positive Predictive Value of 57% and Negative Predictive Value of 80%. The mean birth weight was 2.5 kg in the study group compared to 2.75 kg in the control group which is statistically significant. 34 % of the newborns were admitted to NICU in study group compared to 14% in the control group.Conclusions: In the presence of oligohydramnios, the occurrence of non-reactive NST, meconium stained liquor, development of foetal distress are very high.
Forearm bone mineral density in postmenopausal Indian women: correlation with calcium nutrition
Authors: Sharma Swati , Agarwal Bhavna , Sharma Rohit , Singh Simarpreet
Published: September 2017

Background: Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mass with micro architectural deterioration of bone tissue leading to enhanced bone fragility, thus increasing the susceptibility to fracture. This study was conducted with the objective of measuring forearm bone mineral density in postmenopausal Indian women and to establish a correlation with indices of calcium nutrition i.e. dietary calcium intake, calcium supplements, serum calcium, serum phosphorus, serum alkaline phosphatase and serum intact parathyroid hormone.Methods: Fifty healthy, ambulatory postmenopausal women were selected and a prospective observational study was conducted to correlate the BMD with indices of calcium nutrition. Patient’s laboratory investigations (serum calcium, serum phosphorous, serum alkaline phosphatase and serum intact parathyroid hormone were done and BMD was assessed with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at non-dominant forearm; T-scores and Z-score were derived. Correlation analysis was done to investigate the relationship between indices of calcium nutrition and BMD.Results: The proportion of osteoporosis in forearm was 22%in the deficient group, 60% in the insufficient group and 18% in the sufficient group. Among the study group 15 subjects were osteoporotic by T score mid forearm where as 7 were osteoporotic with T score ultra distal forearm and 11 subjects had osteoporosis with T score total forearm.Conclusions: Out of all the indices of calcium nutrition, the correlation between the serum alkaline phosphatase and T score forearm was statistically significant.
A randomised single blind control study to assess the effect of intrapartum amnioinfusion on maternal caesarean section rate and fetal outcome in a tertiary care centre
Authors: Fonseca Michelle , Dwivedi Jyotsna S.
Published: September 2017

Background: The procedure of instilling normal saline/Ringer’s lactate into the uterine cavity is called amnioinfusion. Objective of present study was to assess the effect of intrapartum amnioinfusion on maternal caesarean section rate and fetal outcome in a tertiary care centre in cases of meconium stained amniotic fluid.Methods: A total of 160 women at term in labor with meconium stained amniotic fluid were randomized into two groups: study and control group. The study group received transcervical amnioinfusion at detection of MSAF. The control group was given the routine obstetric care. Both groups were started on O2 and intrapartum monitoring. The outcomes in both groups were analyzed statistically.Results: The control group had caesarean section rate of 45% and in the study group it was 31.25%. The difference was statistically significant. The outcome in the neonate was assessed on the parameters such as respiratory distress, neonatal intensive care unit admission, meconium aspiration syndrome, neonatal deaths.Conclusions: Amnioinfusion in cases of meconium stained amniotic fluid cases significantly reduces the risk of meconium aspiration syndrome. It also decreases the need for operative intervention thus reducing the risk of maternal morbidity and mortality.
Spurious hypertriglyceridaemia in unconscious patient
Authors: Saha Biswajit
Published: September 2017

Background: Routine biochemical investigation of one patient admitted with a diagnosis of CVA as mentioned in the requisition revealed high hypertriglyceridaemia in a non-lipemic serum for the first time. Later, after scrutiny of the case sheet in the ward, it was found that apart from other management, blood was drawn about 90 minutes after administration of 4th dose of oral glycerol through nasogastric tube and sent to the laboratory. This was suspected to be the probable cause. In order to find out the degree of interference in blood sample, a small amount of glycerol was brought from the ward to experiment.Methods: Glycerol was initially diluted to 1 in 100 in distilled water and then artificially mixed in various dilutions with pooled serum from indoor patients and pooled heparinized plasma from outdoor patients. These samples were subjected to triglycerides estimation while routine analyses were going on.Results: A concentration of about 13,50,500 mg/dl falsely measured triglycerides was found in glycerol solution. This needed a dilution of 1 in 1500 for distilled water, serum and plasma which had 0, 190 and 113 mg/dl triglycerides respectively to bring the level to near the highest range of linearity. The recovery of added glycerol in distilled water was almost 100% but there was some positive bias more with plasma than serum.Conclusions: The spurious hypertriglyceridaemia in serum resulted from positive interference due to temporary high glycerolaemia by the commonly employed GPO-PAP method for its measurement and would cause the same depending on glycerol level.
Knowledge, attitude, practices of inhalational therapy among nursing staff posted at tertiary care teaching hospital
Authors: Sharma Shubhakaran , Chhabra Gaurav , Luhadia S. K.
Published: September 2017

Background: Inhalational therapy for patients with chronic respiratory disorder can greatly benefit. Nurses are one of the major components of health care system of hospital and have an important role in education and training of patients. This study was planned to assess knowledge, attitude, and practices of inhalational therapy among nurses.Methods: This questionnaire based cross sectional study was conducted after taking permission from the institutional ethics committee in all the nurses of a tertiary care teaching hospital. This questionnaire consists of few socio-demographic questions and other questions for assessing level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to inhalational therapy. Incompletely filled questionnaire were excluded out for data analysis. Data was interpreted in percentage.Results: Total 344 (87.31%) questionnaires were analysed. 334 (97.09%) have heard the term inhalational therapy and 310 (90.12%) responded that it is preferred in respiratory disease. 117 (34.01%) nurses could not mention single side effect of inhalational therapy. 178 (51.74%) nurses always assess/observe the patient and 211 (61.34%) always train the patients for correct inhalational technique. 165 (47.97%) nurses responded that knowledge of inhaler use came from attending meetings, courses or workshops organized by scientific bodies. 163 (47.38%) nurses considered ‘Disease to be treated’ the most important variable while prescribing an inhalational device.Conclusions: The knowledge of inhalational therapy was satisfactory while the demonstration of inhaler techniques to patients was moderate in this study. So regular training courses and workshop should be conducted for the nurses about inhalational therapy practical approach.
Superior sagittal sinus and transverse sagittal sinus thrombus secondary to occult meningioma
Authors: Bin Azeez Anaz , Kashyap Prashant , Dhave Dhaval , Hakkim Shameer , Sam Varghese Nikhil , . Kanishka , . Muthukumaran
Published: September 2017

The superior sagittal sinus is the largest of the venous sinuses. It receives blood from the frontal, parietal, and occipital superior cerebral veins and the diploic veins, which communicate with the meningeal veins. The superior sagittal sinus drains into the transverse sinuses. Central nervous system tumors like meningioma, glomus tumor, and meduloblastoma, often directly compress the veins and sinuses of the brain. Major sites of the occlusion include superior sagittal sinus (SSS) and transverse sinus. Initial days cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) was diagnosed only on autopsy. Since the advent of modern investigative modalities like magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI), Computerised Tomography Angiography (CTA) and Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV), more and more cases are being diagnosed confidently.
Cystic vein: a guide for safer laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Samal Debasish , Sahoo Rashmiranjan , Priyadarsini Mishra Sujata , B. Maiti Krishnendu , Patra Kalpita , Chandra Sahu Mahesh
Published: September 2017

Background: Major complications of laparoscopic cholecystectomy are bleeding and bile duct injury, and it is necessary to clearly identify structures endoscopically to keep bleeding and injury from occurring. The aim of this study was to depict the anatomic landmark in the Calots triangle, a vein (cystic vein), a constant feature which can help Laparoscopic surgeons to conduct a safe LC along with other precautions to be adopted. Methods: A total of 100 patients (58 male, 42 female) who underwent cholecystectomy were examined preoperatively by clinically. The origin and number of cystic veins and their relationship with the Calot triangle was evaluated. Results: The cystic veins were delineated intraoperatively in 80 of the 93 patients. The relationship between the cystic vein and the Calot triangle was identified in 80 (86.02%) of the 93 patients. One cystic vein was found in 53 (66.25%) patients, while multiple cystic veins were found in 27 (33.75%) patients. All these veins are above the cystic common bile duct junction. Conclusion: The configuration of the cystic veins and their relationship in the Calot triangle with cystic artery and cystic duct can be identified intraoperatively and used as a guideline for safe laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Factors affecting the development of ventral incisional hernia post abdominal surgery: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sidhu Ankur , Siedler Declan , Turner Richard
Published: September 2017

Background: Ventral incisional hernia (VIH) is one of the most common post-operative complications following abdominal surgery. The objective of this study was to evaluate the rate and risk factors associated with development of a ventral incisional hernia (VIH).Methods: Patients who underwent major abdominal surgery between 2010 and 2012 at a single institution were included in this retrospective cohort study. Data were collected from medical records. The primary outcome was clinical or radiological evidence of incisional hernia; explanatory variables were patient demographics and potential clinico-pathological risk factors for hernia development.Results: A total of 295 patients who underwent laparotomy were analysed. 45 (15.25%) patients were found to have a ventral incisional hernia on follow-up. The median time to development of hernia was 351 days. There were equal numbers of elective (N=22) and emergency (N=23) operations that developed an incisional hernia. Of the explanatory variables considered diabetes, hypertension (HTN) and body mass index (BMI) had persistent significant positive associations with the development of an incisional hernia. On univariable analysis diabetes (HR = 2.73, p-value = 0.004) and hypertension (HR =2.17, p-value = 0.016) were identified as independent risk factors for hernia development. BMI was also significantly associated with development of an incisional hernia on univariate analysis, but due to missing data this did not reach statistical significance on multivariable analysis.Conclusions: Although there are several risk factors to development of VIH, diabetes and HTN were associated with development of incisional hernia in our study. BMI also appears to be an important determinant of development of VIH. Further research in this area is likely to identify an at-risk subset of patients, who may benefit from weight loss prior to surgery or prophylactic mesh post-laparotomy.