bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Colonization of Legionella spp. in Hot and Cold Water Networks of Residential Buildings in Pisa District (Tuscany, Italy): A Five-Years Survey
Authors: Totaro Michele , Costa Anna Laura , Frendo Lorenzo , De Vita Erica , Giorgi Serena , Casini Beatrice , Valentini Paola , Gallo Antonio , Privitera Gaetano , Baggiani Angelo
Published: May 2019

Literature data on Legionella spp. presence in houses water networks have been increasing during the last years, but epidemiological reports assert a high incidence of Legionnaires’ disease infection in Italy. Updating our previously published data, we report a five-year survey on Legionella spp. colonization in 235 buildings with an independent hot water production (IB); 82 buildings with a central hot water production (CB); and 58 buildings with a solar thermal system for hot water production (TB). In all the 375 buildings Legionella spp. was researched in hot and cold water samples and microbiological potability standards of cold water were evaluated. Legionella spp. was detected in 27% of the water networks, mostly in CB and TB. We detected correlations between the presence of bacteria and some physical-chemical parameters (low chlorine level and optimal temperature for Legionella spp. growth). Cold water resulted free from microbiological hazards, except for coliform bacteria isolated in three separate cases, and Legionella spp., detected when cold water temperature was about 20°C. After a five-year survey we confirm the presence of a Legionnaires’ disease risk and the need of training programs for all the workers involved in residential water systems management.
Taxonomy of Montiaceae: Critical Clarifications and Corrections
Authors: Hershkovitz Mark
Published: May 2019

This work provides critical commentary on and corrections of a recently published taxonomy of Montiaceae. Valid citation and publication dates of novel taxa per the International Code of Nomenclature for Plants, Algae, and Fungi are summarized.
The E-Cigarette Debate: What Counts as Evidence?
Authors: Fairchild Amy Lauren , Bayer Ronald , Lee Ju Sung
Published: May 2019

Two major public health evaluations of e-cigarettes—one from the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM), the other from Public Health England (PHE)—were issued back to back in the winter of 2018. While some have read these analyses as broadly consistent, providing support for the view that e-cigarettes could play a role in smoking harm reduction, in every major respect, they come to very different conclusions about what the evidence suggests in terms of public health policy. How is that possible?

The explanation rests in what the 2 reports see as the central challenge posed by e-cigarettes, which helped to determine what counted as evidence. For NASEM, the core question was how to protect nonsmokers from the potential risks of exposure to nicotine and other contaminants or from the risk of smoking combustible cigarettes through renormalization. A precautionary standard was imperative, making evidence that could speak most conclusively to the question of causality paramount. For PHE, the priority was how to reduce the burdens now borne by current smokers, burdens reflected in measurable patterns of morbidity and mortality. With a focus on immediate harms, PHE turned to evidence that was “relevant and meaningful.”

Thus, competing priorities determined what counted as evidence when it came to the impact of e-cigarettes on current smokers, nonsmoking bystanders, and children and adolescents. A new clinical trial demonstrating the efficacy of e-cigarettes as a cessation tool makes understanding how values and framing shape core questions and conclusive evidence imperative.
C2 Vertebral Corpectomy for Kyphosis Malunion of Remote Dens Fracture with Atlantoaxial Ankylosis and Myelopathy
Authors: Bednar Drew A.
Published: May 2019

Case:

We report a unique case of compressive myelopathy caused by late kyphosis angulation of a previously operated dens base fracture nonunion challenged by age-related ankyloses of the lateral articulations C1 to C2 and a solid posterior fusion mass.

Conclusions:

Posterior column shortening such as commonly practiced for progressive kyphosis or myelopathy may be precluded at the atlantoaxial level for potential vascular risk to the vertebral artery. A standard anterior cervical approach and the application of basic surgical spine care principles lead to a simple solution in the unique and highly complex anatomy of our case.
Exploring EFL Students’ Problems in Listening Comprehension
Authors: Sari Nurhidayah , Fithriyana Rinda
Published: May 2019

Listening is a challenging sll for my EFL learners. They seem to do the assignment without showing good comprehension on their answers. This research aims to find out the students’ problems in listening comprehension and identify the factors contributing to the problems. The second semester students in academic year 2017/2018 are the subject of the research. The data were collected by using observation, interview and documentation. The results of the research showed that the students still have low listening comprehension. The most difficult indicator of listening comprehension is making inference. There are only 28% students can answer the questions related making inference. The students also have low confidence in listening skill. They cannot concentrate well in listening to the spoken texts. Those problems are influenced by two factors, internal and external factors. Understanding students' problems leads to the idea of providing better strategies and materials in learning activities.
I-SCEM (Indonesia Song Culture Education Mobile) Sebagai Media Pembelajaran Pengenalan Lagu Daerah Indonesia
Authors: Kreswanto Fendi Nur
Published: May 2019

The aim of this research is to find out the appropriateness and effectiveness of instructional media I-SCEM (Indonesia Song Culture Education Mobile) as Indonesian local songs recognition media. The method used in this research is quasi experimental design with one group pre-test - post-test pattern. The population is the whole students of Sendangmulyo 04 Semarang Elementary School and the sample is 91 V grade students of Sendangmulyo 04 Semarang Elementary School. The data was collected using test, data analysis with descriptive statistics technique and the measuring analysis with score gain analysis test. The results of material appropriateness and I-SCEM media is categorized as very feasible to be used in instructional purposes. Students’ mean score before using instructional media I-SCEM is 68,7, while after using the media is 78. Score improvement is 9,3 with score gain test is 0.46, it is categorized as medium interpretation. Based on the results of students’ learning and gain test, it can be concluded that using I-SCEM instructional media can improve students’ understanding of Indonesian local songs. Students are expected to be able to learn by themselves using I-SCEM instructional media. This research still needs further development especially in other cultural materials such as local cloths andhouses.
Proses Berpikir pada Pemahaman Matematik Siswa Sekolah Dasar Terkait Materi Operasi Hitung Perkalian dan Pembagian Pecahan
Authors: Sidik Geri Syahril , Nugraha Fajar
Published: May 2019

The purpose of writing this article is to obtain an overview of the thinking process of ele- mentary school students in mathematical understanding related to the material of multi- plication and fraction distribution. The thought process consists of instrumental thinking processes and instrumental relational thinking processes. This research is a qualitative descriptive study. Students in one class are given a task sheet to do individually by writing clear work steps. Six students were selected as research subjects to analyze. Consisting of 2 subjects who have high math skills, 2 medium and 2 low. The process of thinking of a subject is observed by looking at and reviewing the answers to the assignment sheet and giving clinical interviews related to the results of his work. Based on data analysis, it was obtained an illustration that the subject did not have a good instrumental relational think- ing process. Generally, many subjects do not understand the concept of fractions, so it is wrong to change fractions to other forms, operate fractions and conclude answers.
Peran Budaya Literasi Pada Peningkatan Karakter Siswa Sekolah Dasar
Authors: Puspita Ari Metalin Ika
Published: May 2019

The purpose of this study is to see the effect of the implementation of literacy culture on improving the character of elementary school students. The research method used in this study is quantitative research. The research design used in this study is quasi-experimental design with the design of one group Pretest-Posttest. The sampling technique used in this study was simple random sampling. Data analysis in this study used pair sample t-test with the help of SPSS 25.0. Based on the results of different tests using the Wilcoxon formula shows that the significance value is smaller than 0.05, it can be concluded that there is an influence of the Implementation of Literacy Culture on Improving Character of Elementary School Student.
Pengembangan Potensi Wisata di Kawasan Pantai Selatan Kabupaten Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta
Authors: Sudarsono Heri , Susantun Indah
Published: May 2019

Penelitian ini memiliki tujuan untuk mengetahui potensi wisata di pantai Baron, Kukup,sepanjang, Drini dan Sadranan. Penelitian ini mengunakan teknik wawancara, observasi dan studi dokumentasi. Tahapan penelitian adalah mengetahui potensi wisata, sarana dan prasarana, sosialisasi potensi wisata, sarana layanan wisata, jenis lapangan kerja dan pengembangan potensi wisata bagi perekonomian masyarakat di kawasan pantai. Dari hasil olah data menunjukkan bahwa pengembangan potensi wisata dipengaruhi oleh penyediaan sarana dan prasarana, pengembangan potensi wisata, serta layanan pendukung wisata. Kemudian, potensi wisata yang berbeda di setiap pantai mempengengaruhi jenis lapangan kerja masyarakat yang ada disekitar kawasan pantai. Akhirnya, dalam jangka panjang beberapa jenis lapangan kerja, seperti pedagang makanan dan minuman, pengkrajin souvenir dan seniman akan menjadi andalan bagi pengembangan potensi wisata di pantai Baron, Kukup, Sepanjang, Drini dan Sadranan.
Development of an Embedded Discrete Fracture Model for Field-Scale Reservoir Simulation With Complex Corner-Point Grids
Authors: Xu Yifei , Sepehrnoori Kamy
Published: May 2019

Corner-point grids have the capability to model complex geological features, such as faults and irregular reservoir boundaries. As an industry standard, they are widely used to simulate different types of reservoirs, including conventional and unconventional reservoirs. It is necessary to effectively simulate natural or hydraulic fractures in such reservoirs.

In this work, a discrete fracture model is developed to conveniently simulate fractures in geologically complex reservoirs represented by corner-point grids. The method is an extension of the embedded discrete fracture model (EDFM). We first present the difficulties in terms of geometrical calculations pertaining to corner-point grids, including the irregularity and degeneracy of block geometry and irregular connections between fracture segments. A general-purpose geometrical algorithm is developed to find the intersections between the matrix and fractures in corner-point grids. This algorithm properly handles the intersection between a general polyhedron and a general polygon, in which both the polyhedron and the polygon can be convex or concave. Transmissibility-factor formulations are also further developed for connections and intersections between fractures. The calculation of effective well indices in different situations is also discussed in detail.

Several case studies are presented to illustrate the accuracy and applicability of the developed model in standard black-oil or compositional simulators. The accuracy of the developed model is demonstrated by comparing its simulation results with those of local-grid-refinement (LGR) models. It is also found that the accuracy of the EDFM is not sensitive to matrix gridding when the average size of gridblocks is similar. Field-scale studies using synthetic and realistic reservoir models are presented to illustrate the significance of fractures during secondary recovery. Existing simulators can directly be used in conjunction with the proposed approach with slight modification in simulation input, if the simulators have nonneighboring-connection (NNC) functionality. Through the case studies, the algorithms and methodology developed in this work are shown to be highly effective for the modeling of fractures in field-scale reservoir-simulation studies with complex corner-point grids.
Compressibility, Porosity, and Permeability of Shales Involving Stress Shock and Loading/Unloading Hysteresis
Authors: Civan Faruk
Published: May 2019

This paper presents the theory, formulation, and correlation of the compressibility, porosity, and permeability of shale reservoirs by considering the effects of stress shock causing a slope discontinuity and loading/unloading hysteresis. The slope discontinuity occurs because the relative contributions of the matrix or fracture change at a critical effective stress depending on whether the process is loading or unloading. The hysteresis phenomenon occurs because of partially reversible and irreversible deformations of the various shale rock constituents by various processes during loading and unloading. Two successful modeling approaches are developed for describing the stress dependency of the petrophysical properties of porous rock formations. The first approach implements a kinetic model leading to a modified power–law equation, and the second approach applies an elastic cylindrical pore–shell model leading to a semianalytical equation. The primary advantage of the kinetic model is its applicability to any stress–dependent property, including strain, void ratio, porosity, pore compressibility, and permeability, thus making it a universal method. The semianalytical equation derived from an elastic cylindrical pore–shell model is applicable only for correlation of permeability. Both approaches are shown to yield high–quality correlations of the properties of porous rocks with effective stress by honoring the slope discontinuity observed at a critical effective stress.
Rush skeletonweed management in Pacific Northwest winter wheat–fallow cropping systems
Authors: Thorne Mark E.
Published: May 2019

Winter wheat production in the inland Pacific Northwest depends on effective weed control strategies to maintain consistent and economically sustaining yields. Control of rush skeletonweed in the winter wheat–fallow cropping system is a new challenge for wheat producers in this region. Earn 1 CEU in Integrated Pest Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at www.certifiedcropadviser.org/education/classroom/classes/679.
Craniosynostosis in the pediatric practice
Authors: Kurmaeva E. A. , Kulakova G. A. , Solovyeva N. A.
Published: May 2019

The authors describe their own clinical observations of children with non-syndromic craniosynostosis. They note that knowledge of this pathology by local pediatricians and a comprehensive examination of the skeletal system, in particular, the skull of the newborn, contributes to the early diagnosis of craniosynostosis. Timely direction to genetic and neurosurgeon allows for early correction preventing undesirable effects of craniosynostosis.
Risk factors of thrombotic complications in patients with single functional ventricle
Authors: Lugacheva Yu. G. , Kulagina I. V. , Kovalev I. A. , Krivoschekov Ye. V. , Yanulevich O. S. , Suslova T. E.
Published: May 2019

Objective: to analyze the parameters of the hemostasis system and the results of molecular genetic testing in patients with a single functional ventricle. The study included 102 patients. All the patients underwent a staged surgical hemodynamic correction of a single functional ventricle. The authors performed a retrospective analysis of patient records in order to identify the episodes of thrombosis. The incidence of thrombotic complications at different stages of hemodynamic correction in the examined patients with a single functional ventricle was 12.7%. The indicators of plasma link hemostasis in the observed patients have been characterized by a balance of hemostatic reactions in the group of children with thrombosis and without. The results of a molecular genetic study demonstrated that the carrier of the heterozygous genotype of 20210GA factor II gene in patients with a single functional ventricle increased the risk of thrombotic complications 16 times (15.4% in patients with thrombosis versus 1.1% in the group without thrombosis; odds ratio 16.0; 95% confidence interval 1.34–191.24; p=0.028). All patients with thrombosis in the history revealed a homozygous condition according to variant 10976GG factor VII gene (p=0.017). Conclusion: molecular genetic analysis of polymorphic variants of the hemostatic system in patients with a single functional ventricle is required to predict the risk, timely prevention and correction of thrombotic complications during the surgical treatment of congenital heart disease.
Transformation processes in managing regional economy
Authors: Molchanova N. P.
Published: May 2019

The goal of the article is to study academic foundations of territorial management established in the process of evolution of home regional economic science and specific features of their practical implementation at different stages of economic development of our country. By using the dialectic method of cognition and system approaches it is possible to reveal the diversity of historically formed scientific views dealing with such issues as shaping and managing administrative – territorial units in Russia as a federal state, to analyze positions of different scientists in defining certain basic categories of regional science, to systematize terms and ground the author’s position in defining the term ‘region’ in interconnection with other single-ordinal scientific categories. The author investigated the laws of functioning and trends of development of regional economy in connection with problematic issues of designing the concept of spatial development of the Russian Federation. The place of macro-region as a key taxonomic unit for studying the spatial structure of national economy is being identified, as well as its principle role as a forming link in the system of sub-federal management during the shift to the 6th technological structure. The author grounds the expediency of further research in the context of renewal of methodological tools and use of proposed organizational innovation aimed at development of basic provisions of science about regions in order to optimize territorial structure of economy and raise the quality of management of spatial development of the Russian Federation in conditions of digital economy formation.
Monte commune – debt ascend. The origin of the global system contradiction ‘creditors – debtors’
Authors: Karpunin V. I.
Published: May 2019

The article was first to show that the forerunner of the local contradiction ‘creditors – debtors’ transformation into its global system form was a regular succession of historical events, among which building-up a debt pyramid (debt ascend) acts as a powerful system driver in the field of social, economic and legal relations. In contrast to many fundamental works dealing with the theory of credit and money debt (a stable historical phenomenon) is described as an immanent form of the system contradiction. The mechanism of spreading the global system contradiction ‘creditors – debtors’ in its fundamental social, economic and legal forms predetermines today the process of transforming the local phenomenon ‘debt’ and shaping related interests in the global phenomenon ‘one-polar world and geo-economic factors’ impact on the process of spreading the global system contradiction ‘creditors – debtors’ the author identifies key protection mechanisms, including finance (institutions, tools, procedures). These protection mechanisms are meant for consideration and adoption by the authorized body, i. e. the Security Council of the Russian Federation. Among the mentioned mechanisms two should be highlighted. The primary task is to develop on the basis of system approach methodology mechanisms of asymmetric response to repressions carried out by geo-economic and geo-political opponents of Russia. The task of paramount importance is the development of mechanisms providing necessary conditions for shaping the national elite in the field of politics, science, culture, corporate and state governance.
Identifying cultural codes of students in order to develop advert messages
Authors: Afonsky S. A.
Published: May 2019

Today it is necessary to improve effectiveness of advert messages used in advertising campaign of entrance exams at the Russian Plekhanov University of Economics. The problem can be resolved by designing such messages in compliance with authenticity of discourse of target audience respondents. ZMET-analysis – the method of metaphor extraction was used as the method of research. For this purpose a social survey was conducted, where a random set of well-known visual images for Russian mentality was shown to recipients, who were asked to choose from the list of psycho-emotional conditions provided in the questionnaire an unlimited number of personal associations. As a result of the social survey (the sample made up 603 people) mathematic and statistic analysis was carried out and a probability model of visual symbols impact on customer decision was built. Later a focus-group was organized (12 volunteers, 3rd year students) and a dictionary of cultural codes was developed. This dictionary was used in the enrollment campaign of 2018. To check the earlier research in-depth interview was arranged (3 participants, 3rd year students), on the basis of which the dictionary of cultural codes was revised and preliminary advert messages for entrance exams of 2019–2020 at the Russian Plekhanov University of Economics were developed.
Forming the foundation of banking supervision on post-soviet space
Authors: Dzhuraev B. M. , Kurbonalizoda M.
Published: May 2019

The article investigates theoretical foundations of the banking supervision. The authors research simultaneously history of establishing the banking system starting from the 17th century and finishing with the period, when CIS countries got independence. Periods of establishing the banking supervision on post-soviet space were analyzed. The essence of the banking supervision from the juridical and economic points of view was presented. The authors on the basis of existing literature analysis and taking into account the mentioned approaches and norms of effective legislation formulated the definition of the banking supervisionin conformity with the banking system of post-soviet countries: banking supervision is one of the key functions of the Central Bank connected with observation, response, control and regulation, including identification and correction of demands and minimization of the totality of banking risks in order to guarantee protection of creditors and depositors, security and stability of the banking system. The authors came to the conclusion that in spite of raising quality of the banking supervision in post-soviet countries in general, the gradual shift to the international standards of accounting (MSFO) and standards of risk assessment (Basel I, Basel II, Basel II.5 and Basel III) the main problem is still the vulnerability of supervision and regulation models that are capable of early response, timely threat identification and use of preventive measures.
Fake economy and causes of unpremeditated distortion of information as its objective foundation
Authors: Zhuravleva G. P. , Tutaeva D. R. , Manokhina N. V.
Published: May 2019

In information and its higher stage of development – digital economy of the second decade of the 21st century fake has acquired independence and turned into a trigger (stimulus, factor), which can initiate different processes in society and economy, politics and mass media. Topicality of the research is stipulated by crisis phenomena in economy, which intensify its fake nature, by growing inequality of incomes and their distribution, by assimilation of objectivity, trustworthiness and completeness of information on markets, when there is no confidence in knowledge and product, by increasing volume of information in the world that can be characterized as information explosion. The aim of the article is to show what fake economy is, provide its definition and reveal its nature, characteristics and goals. Is it a new economic system or a new stage of capitalism development? What are the prospects of its development? The author’s definition of the idea of fake economy’ is given: it is a new stage of present day capitalism development envisaged by general, system, global, integrated crisis or a certain type of capitalist industrial relations, where fraud, fake and counterfeit of correct opinions about realities play a serious role.
Current technological trends In the development of machine-tool Construction in Russia
Authors: Baurina S. B. , Savchenko E. O.
Published: May 2019

As machine-tool construction is considered to be an indicator of mechanical engineering development and progress of this industry can show the development of the country industrial potential, the topic of the article could be of great academic interest. The goal of the article is to study current technological trends of developing machine-tool construction in Russia. The authors provide information about industrial output on the market of machine-tool construction; characterize today’s level of technological, social and economic development in machine-tool construction of the country, identify system problems and specific features of Russian machine-tool construction, such as institutional conditions, home demand, access to technologies, etc. Apart from that the article shows reasons for the low level of innovation activity among manufacturers of machines and equipment, provides information about the latest projects of Russian enterprises of the industry, compares machine-tool construction in different countries, such as China, Japan, Germany, the US and Russia. Priorities of state policy in the field of machine-tool construction in Russia were identified: toguarantee leading positions for Russian companies on home market, ensure technological security. The authors showed priority lines in technological development of machine-tool construction in the Russian Federation for the future, for instance, introduction of product and technological innovation, development of competences in manufacturing competitive spare parts and tools on the territory of the Russian Federation, promotion of organizational innovation in respect of upgrading production automation (roboto-technique and the internet of things). Materials of the article can have practical importance for executives and experts of companies for the developjment of strategies and making reviews and reports and for state bodies to work out recommendations dealing with industrial policy of the Russian Federation.
Optimization of Process Parameters for Cholesterol Oxidase Production by Streptomyces Olivaceus MTCC 6820
Authors: Sahu Shraddha , Shera Shailendra Singh , Banik Rathindra Mohan
Published: May 2019

Background:

Streptomyces olivaceusMTCC 6820 is a potent microorganism for cholesterol oxidase (ChOx) production through the submerged fermentation process. Statistical optimization of the process parameters for submerged fermentation enhances the production of enzymes.

Objective:

This work is aimed to optimize the culture conditions for the fermentative production of cholesterol oxidase byStreptomyces olivaceusMTCC 6820 using combined Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) techniques.

Methods:

The ChOx production (U/ml) was modeled and optimized as a function of six independent variables (culture conditions) using RSM and ANN.

Results:

ChOx production enhanced 2.2 fold,i.e1.9 ± 0.21 U/ml under unoptimized conditions to 4.2 ± 0.51 U/ml after the optimization of culture conditions. Higher coefficient of determination (R2= 97.09 %) for RSM and lower values of MSE (0.039) and MAPE (3.46 %) for ANN proved the adequacy of both the models. The optimized culture conditions predicted by RSMvs. ANN were pH (7.5), inoculum age (48 h), inoculum size (11.25 % v/v), fermentation period (72 h), incubation temperature (30°C) and shaking speed (175 rpm).

Conclusion:

The modeling, optimization and prediction abilities of both RSM and ANN methodologies were compared. The values of Pearson correlation coefficient (r) (ANN0.98> RSM0.95), regression coefficient (R2) between experimental activity, RSM and ANN predicted ChOx activity, respectively (ANN0.96> RSM0.90) and Absolute Average Deviation (AAD) for (ANN3.46%< RSM9.87%) substantiated better prediction ability of ANN than RSM. These statistical values indicated the superiority of ANN in capturing the non-linear behavior of the system.
Standardization and Detailed Aspects of Chopchinyadi Churna: A Potent Anti-Arthritic Medicine
Authors: Pal Rashmi Saxena , Pal Yogendra , Wal Pranay , Wal Ankita
Published: May 2019

Background:

Chopchinyadi Churna is a powdered Ayurvedic churna, commonly used for treating insect bite, rheumatoid arthritis, gout arthritis.

Objective:

The current research is oriented for the evaluation of ingredients and other aspects of Churna.

Materials and Methods:

The Churna was standardized as per the parameters of Ayurvedic Formulary of India for the organoleptic characters, microscopy, physicochemical, chromatographic, rheological properties and phytochemical screening for the detection of major phytoconstituents.

Results:

The parameters were found to be significant and offered future benefits for the advanced evaluation of Churṇa.

Conclusion:

Herbal based anti-arthritic medicine Chopchinyadi Churna has been evaluated on the basis of various parameters, which can serve as references for developing the pharmacopoeial standards.
The Effectiveness of Bioresonance Method on Human Health
Authors: Karakos Periklis , Grigorios Tripsiannis , Theodoros Konstantinidis , Theodoros Lialiaris
Published: May 2019

Introduction:

Bioresonance is a holistic physical method that can be used diagnostically and therapeutically to treat various diseases. Bioresonance uses the electromagnetic waves it receives from the patient. This biophysical method of treatment alters the energy field of the affected organism, increasing the effectiveness of the autoimmune system, thus improving the patient’s overall health.

Methods:

A quasi-experimental design was used to examine whether bioresonance had an effect on the symptoms of the patients. Statistical data processing involves a study of various parameters such as age, gender, studies, occupation, intolerance or illness as well as the existence and balancing of allergic charges. The study included 311 patients from doctors and bio-coordinating laboratories in Athens, Thessaloniki, Volos and Xanthi. The sample of the study included both men (120 subjects - 38.58%) and women (191 subjects – 61.42%), aged from 2 to 76 years old. The age group with the largest number of patients included those aged from 31 to 45.

Results:

The patients under treatment came forward with symptoms mostly nasal (61.09%), followed by eye, respiratory, cutaneous, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Most of the patients (90%) observe no symptoms at all or show significant improvement of their symptoms after a period of 12 months of bioresonance treatment. These results show that bioresonance intervention had a significant effect on the improvement of symptoms and this improvement is even obvious 12 months after the intervention; p<.01.

Conclusion:

We believe that the forthcoming results contribute to a better understanding of the effect of bioresonance on the human body and its affect in preventing and restoring health issues.
Response of Soil Chemical Properties, Performance and Quality of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea Batatas L.) to Different Levels of K Fertilizer on a Tropical Alfisol
Authors: Aboyeji Christopher M. , Adekiya Aruna O. , Dunsin Oluwagbenga , Adebiyi Ojo T. V. , Aremu Charity O. , Olofintoye Temidayo A. J. , Ajiboye Babatunde O. , Owolabi Iyiola O.
Published: May 2019

Background:

The optimum rate of nutrient must be defined with reference to soil properties for individual crops and soil.

Objective:

Field experiments were carried out in 2015 and 2016 cropping seasons to determine the various levels (0, 40, 80, 120 and 160 kg ha-1) of potassium fertilizer (muriate of potash , KCl), on soil chemical properties, leaf nutrient contents, performance and proximate quality of sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatasL.).

Method:

The five treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replicates.

Results:

Studies showed that K fertilizer in both the years significantly influenced N, P and K concentrations compared with the control and also increased the soil concentrations of these nutrients from 0 - 160 kg ha-1K fertilizer. However, soil K only increased up to 80 kg ha-1fertilizer after which there was a decrease. There was a reduction in the values of Ca and Mg in the soil as the levels of K increased. Leaf nutrient concentration of the sweet potato was consistent with the values of soil chemical properties recorded. 80 kg ha-1K fertilizer was observed to be the highest value of sweet potato growth and tuber yield after which there was a reduction. The yield decrease was adduced to excessive K application leading to imbalanced sweet potato plant nutrition compared with N, P, Ca and Mg. K fertilizer significantly influenced moisture, vitamin C and carbohydrate compared with the control. The highest values of fibre and protein were obtained at 80 and 40 kg ha-1K fertilizer, respectively. Dry matter and fat contents of the sweet potato reduced by K application from 0 - 160 kg ha-1application rate.

Conclusion:

For best tuber yield, quality and economic response of K fertilizer to the sweet potato in the agro-ecological zone or in other similar soil conditions elsewhere in the tropics could be achieved by applying 80 kg ha-1K fertilizer.
Predictors of Poor Self-rated Health in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: Insights from a Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Mlangeni L. , Mabaso M. , Makola L. , Zuma K.
Published: May 2019

Background:

The association between Self-Rated Health (SRH) and poor health outcomes is well established. Economically and socially marginalized individuals have been shown to be more likely to have poor SRH. There are few representative studies that assess the factors that influence SRH amongst individuals in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. This study assessed factors associated with poor self-rated health amongst individuals from KwaZulu-Natal using data from the 2012 South African national household survey.

Methods:

The 2012 South African population-based nationally representative household survey employed a multi-stage stratified cluster randomised crossectional design. Multivariate backward stepwise logistic regression models were used to determine whether SRH is significantly influenced by socio-demographic and health-related factors.

Results:

Out of a total of 5192 participants living in KZN, 18.1% reported having fair/poor SRH. In the multivariate logistic regression model the increased likelihood of reporting fair/poor was significantly associated with being older, HIV positive, being an excessive drinker, and not having medical aid. The decreased likelihood of reporting fair/poor was associated with being educated, not having a chronic condition, being physically active, being employed, and not accessing care regularly.

Conclusion:

This study has shown that marginalized individuals are more likely to have poorer SRH. Greater efforts need to be made to ensure that these individuals are brought into the fold through education, job opportunities, health insurance, social support services for poor living conditions, and poor well-being including services for substance abusers.
Teaching and Learning in an Active Learning Classroom: A Mixed‐Methods Empirical Cohort Study of Dental Hygiene Students
Authors: Gordy Xiaoshan Z. , Zhang Lei , Sullivan Amy L. , Bailey Jessica H. , Carr Elizabeth O.
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study was to discover how an active learning classroom (ALC) influenced the teaching and learning of dental radiology with dental hygiene students through a mixed‐methods approach. A year‐long observation of a dental hygiene professor who was teaching two consecutive courses in an ALC was conducted in 2015–16. Nineteen classes were recorded and transcribed, and observational notes on classroom activities were taken. Towards the end of the academic year, the professor was interviewed with use of a 13‐question guide, and the students were surveyed with a 25‐question survey. Moreover, five‐year grades in the same two courses, including four‐year historical grades earned in the traditional classrooms (TCs) and one year from the ALC, were collected along with demographic and prior academic performance data. Thirty‐two of the 38 students responded to the survey, for a response rate of 84%. The results showed that 63% of the students preferred to take classes in the ALC rather than TC. They especially enjoyed the ALC's spaciousness, mobility, unobstructed views, and ease of information‐sharing and engagement in class. However, the ALC presented both the faculty and students with sensory and technique challenges. The analysis of students' grades suggested that GPA was one of the strongest predictors for both courses' final grades in the TCs but had weaker predicting significance in the ALC setting. Overall, the majority of students enjoyed taking classes in the ALC due to its physical charm and dynamic collaboration. Sensory and technique challenges coexisted with benefits.
Emotional Intelligence as a Predictor of Dental Hygiene Clinical Teaching Effectiveness
Authors: Smallidge Dianne L. , Puglisi Nancy , Patenaude Kathleen , Boyd Linda D. , Vineyard Jared
Published: May 2019

The development of strong interpersonal relationships between clinical instructors and students has been found to contribute to clinical teaching effectiveness (CTE). In addition, strong interpersonal relationships are more likely to occur in individuals who possess a high level of emotional intelligence (EI). However, an examination of the impact of a clinical instructor's EI on CTE has not been extensively investigated. The aims of this study were to measure the CTE and EI of dental hygiene clinical instructors and to identify any correlations between their CTE and EI. In this cross‐sectional quantitative study conducted in 2017, dental hygiene clinical instructors in selected U.S. dental hygiene programs were invited to complete two online assessments: the Mayer‐Salovey‐Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT) and the Nursing Clinical Teaching Effectiveness Inventory (NCTEI). Demographic data collected from participants was also included in the exploratory data analysis. A total of 42 clinical instructors from programs in 19 states completed both the MSCEIT and the NCTEI. The results showed statistically significant correlations between negative clinical teaching behaviors and MSCEIT outcomes. These results suggest that emotional intelligence may be linked to dental hygiene clinical instructors' teaching effectiveness, with low emotional intelligence being a predictor of negative teaching behaviors.
Educator and Student Hand Hygiene Adherence in Dental Schools: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Resende Kemelly Karolliny Moreira , Neves Layla Ferreira , de Rezende Costa Nagib Leonardo , Martins Lázara Joyce Oliveira , Costa Cláudio Rodrigues Rezende
Published: May 2019

Health professionals and their patients are subject to cross‐contamination and potential exposure to harmful infectious diseases. A common form of cross‐contamination is through dental procedures without proper instrument care and lack of hand hygiene. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the published research on the adherence of educators and students in academic dental institutions to hand hygiene procedures. This systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) and included articles collected in the Cochrane, LILACS, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The initial search identified 1,196 articles. Ultimately, three studies were included for qualitative synthesis and two for the meta‐analysis. The three articles had similar characteristics of observational hand hygiene research involving educators and dental students. In all three, hand hygiene among dental students did not reach 50% of the total number of opportunities, which is a troubling result. Although the hand hygiene rate of educators was higher than that of dental students, these findings point to a need to further promote hand hygiene to future professionals to avoid cross‐contamination between health professionals and patients.
Classifications of Non-Specific Hematogenous Vertebral Osteomyelitis. Critical Review and Suggestions for Clinical Use
Authors: Bazarov A. Yu.
Published: May 2019

For a long time classification of V.Ya. Fischenko published in 1983 and being solely descriptive was the main classification of vertebral osteomyelitis in the countries of the former ussr. In recent years some versions of tactical classifications appeared in the literature which were dedicated to standardization of tactics and methods of treatment. However, those classifications did not reflect distribution according to affection type, destruction degree, biomechanical instability and presence of neurological deficit and did not embrace all scenarios of disease progress.Purpose of the study — to compare existing classifications and to offer an adapted Russian language version of tactical classification for hematogenous vertebral osteomyelitis.Materials and Methods. The study included 209 patients with non-specific vertebral osteomyelitis treated in the period from 2006 till 2017. All cases of vertebral osteomyelitis were distributed in accordance with known classifications. The authors conducted the analysis of treatment tactics used in the clinic and by the authors of given classifications. The authors revealed a group of patients which is not classified in known literature.Results. Full match of treatment tactics with standardized approaches suggested by authors of new classifications was 61,5% (n = 126), partial match (applied treatment tactics does not contradict to suggested) — 20,0% (n = 41), which overall was 81,5% (n = 167). The authors refer to patients who underwent ventral sanation or reconstructive procedures. The majority of patients had the septic form of disease. Four out of 209 patients were not classified while three patients features isolated injury of vertebral processes and one patient — injury of CI-CII.Conclusion. Modern suggested classifications of hematogenous vertebral osteomyelitis are applicable in clinical practice and allow to standardize treatment algorithms. Tactics is determined not only by degree of destruction, involvement of paravertebral tissues, biomechanical instability of affected spine segment and neurological deficit, but by a presence of systemic inflammation response syndrome (SIRS). Considering the above it would be useful to introduce some additional subtypes which would characterize septic process of disease and determine the indications for sanation and reconstructive ventral procedures, which can be supplemented by instrumental fixation after stabilization of the patient.
Mid-Term Outcomes of Revision Hip Arthroplasty with Acetabular Augments
Authors: Korytkin A. A. , Novikova Ya. S. , Kovaldov K. A. , Korolev S. B. , Zykin A. A.
Published: May 2019

Acetabular defects are a major obstacle to achieving good outcomes after revision hip arthroplasty. One way to deal with this problem is to use acetabular augments. We aimed to describe mid-term outcomes of revision hip arthroplasty using acetabular augments.Materials and methods. We analyzed 85 cases (83 patients) of revision hip arthroplasty using acetabular augments performed during 2012-2018 period: 53 women and 30 men with average age of 57±13 years (25-79). Distribution of acetabular defects was: 51 cases — Paprosky IIIA, 17 cases — Paprosky IIIB, 12 cases — Paprosky IIB, 5 cases — Paprosky IIC. 14 patients had chronic pelvic discontinuity. Aseptic loosening was indication for the operation in 83 cases, periprosthetic hip fracture — 1, dislocation — 1. The amount of previously undregone ipsilateral hipsurgeries was 1 in 35 cases, 2 in 25 cases, 3 and more in 25 cases. Average follow-up period was 38±19 months (1-79).Results. The average HHS score improved from 37±7 preoperatively to 73±9 after 3 months and to 80±11 after 12 months postoperatively (p = 0.001). Average VAS score improved from 7±2 preoperatively to 4±1 after 3 months and to 3±1 after 12 months postoperatively (p = 0.001). Stable acetabular fixation was achieved in each case according to X-ray findings at final follow-up. However, radiolucent lines were present around the cup in 10 cases (11.8 %) followed by no clinical evidence of aseptic loosening. Hip center of rotation was restored from 26.40±18.38 mm (4-75) preoperatively to 4.78±5.02 mm (0-20) postoperatively relatively to 0 point. Complications manifested in 9 out of 85 cases (10,6%). Distribution of complications was: periprosthetic joint infection in 6 cases, recurrent dislocation — 2, periprosthetic hip fracture — 1.7 patients required implant removal and exchange.Conclusions. Good mid-term outcomes can be achieved using acetabular augments during hip revision surgery in setting of acetabular defects. Acetabular augments are a reliable option in case of Paprosky IIIB, IIIA defects and chronic pelvic discontinuity, providing good mechanical stability.
„Ischemic“ Distraction Regenerate: Interpretation, Definition, Problems and Solutions
Authors: Borzunov D. Yu. , Shastov A. L.
Published: May 2019

The purpose of the study was to define «ischemic» distraction regeneration which happens during the compromised course of distraction osteogenesis and to show the effectiveness of the mechanical action on such regenerates in patients with bone defects and pseudarthrosis.Materials and methods. Seventeen patients with long bone defects (forearm and lower leg) were successfully treated. They had compromised distraction osteogenesis during the transosseous osteosynthesis stages and developed ischemic regenerates. The mean size of the defects relative to the contralateral segment in the forearm bones was 22.3% and 20% in patients with defects in the lower leg bones. Mechanical stimulation of compromised bone formation was used by means of compression and compaction of problematic distraction regenerates with two techniques. In group I, an additional osteotomy of the fragment under lengthening was performed. In group II, regenerates were compacted to the height of the regenerate connective tissue layer until its bony parts contacted. We used descriptive statistics methods.Results. The process of bone tissue formation restored in all patients due to the mechanical impact on the zones of compromised distraction osteogenesis, and its complete organotypic remodeling followed.Conclusion. Based on clinical and radiological signs of a compromised course of distraction osteogenesis, the notion of «ischemic regenerate» was defined and its manifestations were described. A retrospective analysis of the results of mechanical action on compromised distraction regenerates through compression and compaction without a change in the osteosynthesis technology shows its effectiveness.