bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction of innovative stormwater techniques within a distributed hydrological model and the influence on the urban catchment behaviour
Authors: Rodriguez F. , Morena F. , Andrieu H. , Raimbault G.
Published: March 2020

This study presents the implementation of innovative stormwater techniques into a distributed hydrological model. This model, is able to represent hydrological processes usually neglected in urban modelling, such as evapotranspiration, infiltration in roads, or direct infiltration of soil water in sewers. The introduction of innovative stormwater techniques such as flat roofs, permeable reservoir pavements or tree plantation can be easily performed in this very modular model. A small urban catchment in Nantes (France) is taken as case study to analyse the influence of these innovative techniques on the hydrological catchment behaviour. The influence of innovative stormwater techniques on the distribution of runoff sources in the catchment, and on total runoff, varies between scenarios. The biggest runoff reduction is delivered by widespread application of flat roofs.
Secondary WWTP preceded by UASB reactors - an excellent Brazilian experience
Authors: Jordäo E. P. , Volschan I. , Alem Sobrinho P.
Published: March 2020

Anaerobic treatment, such as the Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket - UASB - has many advantages: a compact system, with practically no equipment in the anaerobic vessel, low operational costs, very low energy consumption, and low excess sludge produced.

However, taking into account its poor effluent quality, and the legal water quality standards, post treatment is a must. Brazil is experiencing the scheme UASB plus aerobic secondary treatment, aiming reduction in investment and mainly in operational costs, with excellent results.

Three cases are discussed in this paper: two small plants, Barreto (0,14 m3/s) and Itaipu (0.07 m3/s, 1.6 MGD); and the Rio Preto plant (1.34 m3/s), the first two already operational. All adopt the UASB plus activated sludge process, the last two with denitrification.

Several other important plants are in the stage of design or construction in Brazil, with flows as high as 3.35 m3/s, UASB plus activated sludge with nitrogen and phosphorus removal and UASB plus trickling filters.

Design criteria for the anaerobic reactor and for the different secondary treatment processes, and available operational data as well, are discussed in the paper. Particular attention is given to special restraints with activated sludge as post treatment, such as the higher sludge age required for nitrification, and the difficulty in denitrifying the anaerobic effluent.
Physical Model Study of Chicago's New Calumet Influent Pumping Station
Authors: Brocard D. , Garcia M. , Kunetz T. , Sobanski J. , Waratuke A. , Weber T.
Published: March 2020

A new raw wastewater influent pumping station was designed for the Calumet Water Reclamation Plant in Chicago. The new station could not be designed to be in full compliance with design guidelines of the Hydraulic Institute due to site constraints. Proper operation of the pumping station and optimum operational flexibility are goals for the successful long term performance of the new station. A physical model study was used to identify deficiencies in the original design relative to flow characteristics. The model enabled development of design modifications to address hydraulic flow deficiencies. The optimized design resulted in pump approach flow conditions that provide proper pump performance under a wide range of varying water levels and different combinations of operating pumps and screen channels. Other benefits of the model included improvement in pump efficiency, lack of air entrainment, decreased pump wear, and decreased scour of concrete surfaces. Optimized design also results in operation and maintenance cost savings which, in the long run, will greatly surpass the cost of the physical model study. The required elements to optimize the performance were integrated with the design of the facility, thereby avoiding potentially costly retrofits if the deficiencies had not been mitigated prior to construction.
Conventional and Advanced Technologies for Biological Nitrogen Removal in Europe
Authors: Rosenwinkel K.-H. , Beier M. , Phan L.-C. , Hartwig P.
Published: March 2020

Within the last decades in Europe, the EU standards have become stricter for the nitrogen concentration in effluent and the nitrogen removal performance in WWTP; many methods and strategies to improve the efficiency of WWTP have been developed. This paper will give an overview of the conventional technologies as well as advanced technologies using bio-augmentation, partial nitrification, and fully autotrophic ammonia oxidation. Compared to the German design guidelines A 131, in which the specific reaction volume is recommended from 150 to 250 l/PE, the optimized specific reaction volume of about 120 l/PE is significantly smaller. Furthermore, the bio-augmentation technologies with integrated sludge liquor treatment can reduce the specific reaction volume up to 50 l/PE.
Combining Theoretical and Physical Laboratory Modelling in the Development of Real Time Control Algorithms
Authors: Unwin D. M , Saul A. J
Published: March 2020

Water industries worldwide are becoming increasingly interested, due to the recent improvements in the devices, methodologies and tools available, in the development and utilisation of Real Time Monitoring/Control (RT-M/C) applications. The University of Sheffield Pennine Water Group is currently researching the development of RT-M/C solutions for wastewater systems and the minimisation of urban flooding impact within the United Kingdom. These solutions are being developed, utilising quasi-steady state methodology, by the combining and utilisation of data, from both a novel laboratory scale prototype research apparatus, as shown in Figure 1, and theoretical mathematical analysis/Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).

Figure 1 Figure 1.

The project will ultimately centre on the development of a suite of RT- M/C algorithms/Flood Risk decision support tools (FRDST), which can be applied, with confidence to real world applications. Initial phases of the project centred on the development of the laboratory facility, and the enhancement of current system understanding in terms of hydraulic functionality, and its impact upon the transportation of soluble pollutants. This impact upon pollutant transportation has been quantified (by laboratory experimentation) in terms of the ‘dominating’ (backwater) effects of converging dry weather (type) and storm (type) flows due to the presence of a (simple) sewer manhole junction. These dominating effects are hypothesised to be due to the combined parameters of angle of inlet (of dry weather/base flows), the magnitude of the base flow rate and the ratio of the base flow rate to the joining storm flow rate. The effect upon pollution (mass) transportation has been shown to mirror the magnitude of the backwater effects, thus allowing the hypothesis, that hydraulic effects alone should form the foundation of any subsequent development of RT-M/C algorithms/FRDST. Further to this it is also hypothesised that the resulting model could confidently be applied to systems understanding/control in terms of hydraulic performance in general, and the minimising (through adopted DST) of flood risk at key sewer system junctions. Particularly in terms of environmental protection schemes and cost minimising strategies.
Uncertainty in risk analysis of urban pluvial flooding: a case study
Authors: ten Veldhuis J.A.E. , Clemens F.H.L.R.
Published: March 2020

The interest in urban flood risk is growing steadily over the last decades. Still, in the Netherlands no data is available to quantify urban flood risk. In this paper an estimation of urban flood frequencies is made in a detailed analysis of an urban catchment. Calculation results from a theoretical model are compared with data from a complaint register. The analysis in the case study shows that insufficient system maintenance condition is an important potential cause of urban flooding. The estimated flood frequency caused by severe rainfall is 4 events in 7 years or 0.6 per year, while the flood frequency caused by maintenance problems is 13 in 4 years or 3.3 per year. This includes 2 flood events that are caused by heavy rainfall and 11 events that are related to maintenance problems. The number of locations that suffer flooding caused by severe rainfall is more than 3 or 4 per event, while the number of locations that suffer flooding caused by maintenance problems is not more than 2 per event. It is expected that these numbers are representative for the rest of the Netherlands. Further research and data collection will very this assumption.
Wastewater transfer during dry and wet weather in Parisian combined sewer
Authors: Kafi M. , Gromaire M.C. , Saad M. , Chebbo G.
Published: March 2020

The study of wastewater transfer in dry and wet weather was made following various approaches: in dry weather (relationship between pollutant loads and flows, evolution of the nature of particulate and dissolved pollutants, variations of VSS/SS and of SS/TKNd ratios); in wet weather (evaluation of the proportion of wastewater effluent during the rain event from conductivity and water volumes). Results obtained from dry weather show that the dilution by parasitic waters allows to explain a great part of the concentration variations observed at OPUR outlets. Moreover, the difference in the nature of wastewater produced during the day and the variation in the solid transport capacity, leading to erosion and/or sedimentation can also explain the daily cycles of wastewater concentrations. Indeed, results obtained from wet weather, show, whatever the size of the catchment, that there is direct correspondence between the volumetric and the conductivity methods. This indicates that wastewater volumes, at outlets during rain events, do not appear to be affected by the hydrodynamics of wet weather, whatever the size of the catchment.
La calidad del servicio educativo resultados preliminares en la Universidad Fidélitas
Authors: Rodriguez-Fernández Carlos Manuel
Published: March 2020

La investigación abordó la calidad del servicio educativo en la Universidad Fidélitas, durante el año 2017, percibido por los estudiantes de grado. El objeto de estudio fue analizado en las dos sedes de la Universidad, y en los diferentes horarios de clase. El objetivo por un lado fue construir de manera participativa el instrumento de evaluación de la calidad, y por otro determinar los factores que explican la calidad del servicio percibido. Para ello se construyó el Cuestionario de Evaluación Docente Estudiantil de manera colaborativa con estudiantes, directivos académicos y administrativos mediante grupos focales y entrevistas en profundidad. Posteriormente se realizó un muestreo probabilístico estratificado de los cuestionarios. El instrumento se validó según Alpha de Cronbach. Se utilizó la prueba de Kruskall-Wallis pare encontrar diferencias entre sedes y horarios y la correlación de Spearman Rho, para identificar las variables asociadas al desempeño del profesor. Se encontró un Net Promote Score del profesor de 51,42 %, con pequeñas diferencias entre sedes y una mejor recomendación en horarios diurnos. Se identificaron siete factores clave que explican en mayor medida la satisfacción del estudiante con su profesor, destacándose los actitudinales como claves de la percepción de la calidad.
Influencia del género y la religión en el uso del recurso Wiki. Un estudio de casos
Authors: Moreno Guerrero Antonio José , López Belmonte Jesús , Fuentes Cabrera Arturo
Published: March 2020

El recurso Wiki está considerado como uno de los elementos integrantes dentro de lo denominado Web 2.0, fomentando el trabajo colaborativo, dando al discente un papel activo en el desarrollo del proceso de enseñanza y aprendizaje. El objetivo de la presente investigación es conocer la influencia, tanto del género como la religión, en el uso de la herramienta educativa Wiki en el alumnado matriculado en el Máster de Formación en Profesorado de Educación Secundaria Obligatoria, Bachillerato, Formación Profesional y Enseñanza de idiomas en el Campus de Ceuta. El estudio desarrollado es de tipo descriptivo y correlativo, aplicando un análisis desde el enfoque cuantitativo. El análisis descriptivo y correlativo se ha centrado en la relación existente entre las variables género y religión con el resto de variables analizadas, centradas en cuestiones sobre el uso del recurso Wiki. Los resultados muestran diferencias de opinión, según sea el género y la religión que profesa el alumnado en relación a la aplicación Wiki, además de ser la religión un condicionante que influye en la valoración de este recurso. Las conclusiones muestran valoraciones positivas del recurso, con pequeñas variaciones según género y religión de los estudiantes.
Sostenibilidad y educación en el área de tecnología e informática
Authors: Torres Oliveros Silvia Andrea , Salcedo Ospino Julieth , Bustamante Meza Lucía
Published: March 2020

El presente tiene como objetivo reflexionar sobre el nivel de conocimientos en sostenibilidad de los estudiantes de Licenciatura en Informática de la Universidad del Magdalena y su responsabilidad para promover el manejo adecuado de RAEE. Tal propósito surge del preocupante hecho de que los avances tecnológicos son valorados por los beneficios e innovación que han traído, restando importancia a las consecuencias que generan sus residuos, los cuales están compuestos por materiales tanto valiosos como potencialmente peligrosos. Entre los principales referentes teóricos considerados están los ODS de la UNESCO, los lineamientos técnicos para manejo adecuado de RAEE, el Libro verde de Colciencias, que promueven desarrollar competencias en sostenibilidad como eje transversal en los diferentes niveles educativos. Las reflexiones descritas surgen de una investigación descriptiva cuya población fueron estudiantes de la asignatura Fundamentos de Programación durante el 2018, a quienes se les aplicó una prueba piloto en la que se determinó que poseen un nivel de desarrollo incipiente en las competencias en sostenibilidad y manejo adecuado de RAEE. En consecuencia, se realizaron diversas acciones en pro de aportar al cumplimiento de metas sostenibles y complementar su formación integral incluyendo al contenido de la asignatura aspectos de sostenibilidad y manejo adecuado de RAEE.
Estado del arte de las prácticas pedagógicas de los maestros de las escuelas normales superiores y las facultades de educación
Authors: Pineda-Rodríguez Yheny Lorena , Loaiza-Zuluaga Yasaldez Eder
Published: March 2020

El presente artículo de revisión pretende identificar, desde un metaanálisis, los aportes derivados de las investigaciones histórico-educativas relacionadas con las escuelas normales superiores y las facultades de Educación colombianas, como instituciones formadoras de docentes y que conforman el estado del arte de las prácticas pedagógicas de los maestros encargados de formar maestros. En esta investigación doctoral adscrita al grupo Maestros y Contextos de la Universidad de Caldas, se transitó metodológicamente desde el nivel exploratorio, descriptivo y explicativo hasta llegar al análisis documental de los 107 textos que dieron como resultado categorías internas. Los documentos analizados, sistematizados e integrados fueron agrupados así en cinco focos de comprensión común: 1) Formación de maestro: un análisis desde el discurso pedagógico; 2) Prácticas pedagógicas y quehaceres del maestro; 3) Contexto educativo de las escuelas normales; 4) Contexto educativo y procesos de acreditación; y 5) Opciones metodológicas: maestros formadores de maestros. Finalmente, se pudo concluir cómo en las prácticas pedagógicas de quienes forman a los docentes, a pesar de las múltiples miradas desde “el deber ser”, aún predomina la distancia entre el discurso y el quehacer pedagógico.
Spor Bilimleri Fakültesi Öğrencilerinde Yaşam Doyumu Ve Umutsuzluğun Madde Kullanma Eğilimine Etkisinin Araştırılması
Authors: Çolak Hülya , Ünal Hakan
Published: March 2020

Bu çalışma, Spor Bilimleri Fakültesi öğrencilerinin, yaşam doyumları ve umutsuzluk durumlarının madde kullanma eğilimi üzerindeki etkilerini incelemek amacı ile yapılmıştır. Araştırma grubunu, Gazi Üniversitesi Spor Bilimleri Fakültesinde öğrenim gören 220’si kadın 202’si erkek olmak üzere 422 öğrenci oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada veri toplama aracı olarak Madde Kullanma Eğilimi Ölçeği, Yaşam Doyum Ölçeği ve Beck Umutsuzluk Ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Araştırmada elde edilen veriler SPSS for Windows 22.0 programı kullanılarak analiz edilmiştir. Verilerin değerlendirilmesinde tanımlayıcı istatistiksel yöntemleri olarak sayı, yüzde, ortalama, standart sapma kullanılmıştır. İki bağımsız grup arasında niceliksel sürekli verilerin karşılaştırılmasında t-testi, ikiden fazla bağımsız grup arasında niceliksel sürekli verilerin karşılaştırılmasında Tek yönlü (Oneway) Anova testi kullanılmıştır. Anova testi sonrasında farklılıkları belirlemek üzere tamamlayıcı post-hoc analizi olarak Scheffe testi kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın sürekli değişkenleri arasında pearsonkorelasyon ve regresyon analizi uygulanmıştır. Sonuç olarak; Spor Bilimleri Fakültesi öğrencilerinin yaşam doyumunun madde kullanma eğilimini azalttığı ve umutsuzluğun madde kullanma eğilimini artırdığı sonucuna varılmıştır. Bu artışta umutsuzluk alt boyutları arasında yer alan motivasyon kaybının etkili olduğu belirlenmiştir.
Should the Vancomycin Minimal Inhibitory Concentration be used as an Infant Critical Care Regular Criteria?
Authors: Bidu Nadielle S. , Fernandes Bruno J.D. , Filho Jucelino N.C. , Bastos Regina E.A. , Pedreira Joice N.R. , Couto Ricardo D.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Vancomycin is the first-line antibiotic used for the treatment of staphylococcal
infections. Because of its narrow therapeutic window and the pharmacokinetics variability, vancomycin
trough serum concentration should be monitored. However, due to the increased cases of staphylococcus’
commensal species infections and the case of vancomycin resistance, the minimal inhibitory
concentration should be considered on antimicrobial therapy.

Objective:

This article aimed to show the importance of the minimal inhibitory concentration to infants
on vancomycin therapy as regular criteria.

Materials and Methods:

Three infants in the use of vancomycin, hospitalized in the same maternity
hospital, and that had at least one blood culture performed during the intensive-care-unit hospitalization
were included in the study. Vancomycin serum concentrations were determined by particleenhanced-
turbidimetric inhibition-immunoassay. The vancomycin minimal inhibitory concentration
data were interpreted by following the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) and the European
Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST). The trough serum concentration
range of 10 to 20 mg.L-1 was considered therapeutic.

Results:

All three patients had at least one infection by S. epidermidis, being one patient exhibit vancomycin-
resistant S. epidermidis infection. All patients had stoppages in the vancomycin treatment,
and the minimal inhibitory concentration was performed for only one patient.

Conclusion:

The data obtained from these patients also showed the need to perform therapeutic monitoring
by using minimal inhibitory concentration values, because, although the serum concentrations
were within the reference range, they are insufficient to guarantee patient therapeutic success.
Genome Sequence of a Highly Virulent pvl-positive Vancomycin intermediate- resistant Staphylococcus aureus Sequence Type 30
Authors: Chamon Raiane C. , Marques Lucas M. , Timenetsky Jorge , da Costa Rachid Caio T.C. , Ferreira Rosana B.R. , de Oliveira Tamara L.R. , Glatthardt Thais , de Oliveira Moreira Lilian , dos Santos Kátia R.N.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Staphylococcus aureus isolates expressing the Panton-Valentine Leukocidin
(PVL) have been related to a wide range of diseases. Recently, pvl-positive community-associated
methicillin-resistant S. aureus belonging to USA1100 (ST30/CC30/SCCmec IV) lineage has emerged
in Brazilian hospitals.

Objective:

The aim of this work was to sequence the genome of a pvl-positive USA1100 Vancomycin-
Intermediate-Resistant S. aureus (VISA) isolate from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Methods:

The 13420 genome was sequenced using the HiSeq 2500 platform. The draft genome, plasmids
annotation, and genome analysis were performed using RAST. Comparison of the relative pvl
gene expression of six S. aureus isolates was performed by qRT-PCR.

Results:

The isolate presented the ϕPVL phage codifying for the H2b PVL protein isoform, and another
prophage carrying a PVL variant named lukF and lukS-PV.2. The 13420 genome presented a
high number of virulence determinants, such as genes codifying for serine-protease proteins, enterotoxins
(egc), the immune evasion cluster (IEC), adhesion proteins, spermine/spermidine acetyltransferase
gene (blt), superantigen-like proteins, as well as the ica operon. Point mutations at vraS, tcaA,
and tcaB genes were detected. Moreover, the PVL mRNA relative expression of the 13420 isolate was
five times higher than mRNA PVL levels of the USA300/ST8 reference strain.

Conclusion:

We described for the first time the genome sequence of a VISA isolate harboring two
pvl-associated genes and other virulence factors that may improve the USA1100/ST30 lineage fitness
and impact its pathogenicity and spreading at Brazilian hospitals.
3D-QSAR and Docking Studies on Pyrimidine Derivatives as CSF-1R Inhibitors
Authors: Deng Ya-ting , Wang Jun-wei , Chu Han , Wang Juan , Hu Yong , lin Yong , Shu Mao , Lin Zhi-hua
Published: March 2020

Background:

Colony Stimulating Factor-1 Receptor (CSF-1R) is associated with
malignancy, invasiveness and poor prognosis of tumors, and pyrimidine derivatives are considered as
a novel class of CSF-1R inhibitor.

Methods:

To explore the relationship between the structures of substituted pyrimidine derivatives
and their inhibitory activities against CSF-1R, CoMFA and CoMSIA analyses, and molecular
docking studies were performed on a dataset of forty-four compounds.

Results:

We found in CoMFA model including steric and electrostatic fields for the training set, the
cross-validated q2 value was 0.617 and the non-cross-validated r2 value was 0.983. While, the crossvalidated
q2 value was 0.637 and the non-cross-validated r2 value was 0.984 in CoMSIA Model
which include steric, electrostatic and hydrophobic fields. 3D equipotential maps generated from
CoMFA and CoMSIA along with the docking binding structures provided enough information about
the structural requirements for better activity.

Conclusion:

The data generated from the present study helped us to predict the activity of new
inhibitors and further design some novel and potent CSF-1R inhibitors.
Analytical Techniques for the Estimation of Perindopril Erbumine: A Review
Authors: Pathak Khyati , Kaushal Mona , Patel Himani
Published: March 2020

This paper includes different analytical methods available for the estimation of the Perindopril
Erbumine. Perindopril Erbumine is an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used to
treat hypertension and heart failure. The drug is officially listed in the monograph of USP, BP & EP.
This drug is available in various marketed formulations. There are so many methods reported for the
estimation of Perindopril Erbumine and its related substances. Various methods including UVspectroscopic
method, stability-indicating liquid chromatography method, Thermo-Radio, and Photostability
study, Stability indicating UHPLC-DAD method, LC-MS/MS electrospray ionization validated
method, and LC-MS/MS bioanalytical method are discussed in this paper.
A Standard Protocol Proposal for Reliable and Time-Saving Shielding Effectiveness Measurements for MRI Faraday Cages
Authors: Mirarchi Luciano , Giaquinto Valentina , Silvestri Sergio , Massa Rita
Published: March 2020

Background:

An inadequate shielding of radio-frequency cabins for magnetic resonance imaging devices can affect clinical images with artifacts. For this reason, periodic measurements of shielding effectiveness are recommended. However, a wide gap exists between the international reference standard currently available for shielding effectiveness measurement (IEEE-Std 299/2006) and the practical approach, mainly because of the poor applicability of the standard to any situation.

Objective:

The aim of this work is to suggest a novel procedure for the measurement of the shielding effectiveness of radiofrequency cabins for clinical magnetic resonance imaging devices. The application of the cabin door measurements for shielding effectiveness assessment is proposed.

Methods:

Based on the only international standard currently available, some critical aspects of shielding effectiveness measurements are highlighted. Taking into account theoretical considerations, a novel approach is suggested in order to simplify the applicability of the standard. Frequency ranges and measurement points were reduced by considering the specific device inside the shield.

Results:

Results obtained by the application of the proposed protocol were compared with the results obtained by the application of the standard procedure IEEE-Std 299/2006. No significant discrepancies between measurements have been found. It was observed that the time to perform measurements reduced by almost three times.

Conclusion:

A time-saving method for measurement of shielding effectiveness in a narrow range of frequencies is proposed.
Comparison between Trans-articular and Subacromial Stabilization with Ligament Repair for Acute Acromioclavicular Dislocation
Authors: Matsumura Noboru , Kawano Yusuke , Furuhata Ryogo , Kimura Hiroo , Suzuki Taku , Iwamoto Takuji
Published: March 2020

Background:

Although numerous treatment options for acromioclavicular joint dislocation have been reported, the treatment strategy is not yet standardized.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic results of coracoclavicular ligament repair with temporary acromioclavicular stabilization using suture anchors and Kirschner wires, and to compare the results between temporary trans-articular fixation and subacromial stabilization of the acromioclavicular joint.

Methods:

Thirty-three cases with displaced acromioclavicular joint dislocation were retrospectively evaluated. In the first 14 cases, the wires temporarily penetrated the joint for an average of 7 weeks (trans-articular group), while the acromioclavicular joint was temporarily stabilized by wires passing under the acromion that were inserted into the distal clavicle for an average of 13 weeks in the latter 19 cases (subacromial group). Clinical and radiographic results were evaluated and compared between the two groups.

Results:

The average UCLA score was 32.0 points in the trans-articular group and 32.8 points in the subacromial group, indicating no difference between the two groups (P= 0.418). Coracoclavicular distance ratio after surgery was significantly smaller in the subacromial group (P≤ 0.035), and acromioclavicular dislocation ratio after removal of the wires was also smaller in the subacromial group (P≤ 0.001) compared with the trans-articular group.

Conclusion:

This study revealed that coracoclavicular ligament repair with temporary acromioclavicular stabilization leads to favorable clinical results, with the subacromial group showing better maintenance of joint reduction compared with the trans-articular group. Subacromial wire stabilization is a viable option for long-term temporary fixation of acute displaced acromioclavicular joint dislocation.
Sustainable Use of Recycled Glass Powder as Cement Replacement in Concrete
Authors: Tamanna Nafisa , Tuladhar Rabin
Published: March 2020

Aims:

This paper introduces a sustainable way of using Recycled Glass Powder (RGP) as a cement replacement in concrete.

Background:

In Australia, almost one million tons of glass waste is collected annually for recycling purpose. However, the inconsistency in chemical composition and the presence of impurities make glass recycling process difficult. Besides, the lack of local recycling plants coupled with high transportation costs makes the recycling process expensive.

Objective:

For the successful use of recycled glass in concrete for industrial applications, it is therefore, important to characterize the physical and chemical properties of recycled glass collected by the local councils. Furthermore, the effects of replacement levels of cement with recycled glass on the strength and durability properties of concrete need to be assessed as well.

Methods:

Mechanical strength and durability properties of concrete with 10%, 20% and 30% of RGP as a partial cement replacement were tested and compared with typical concrete and fly ash blend concrete. The relative strength test of mortar was conducted to assess the reactivity of glass powder with the cement.

Results:

RGP concrete showed an improvement in strength over time like fly ash. Using RGP significantly improved the resistance against chloride penetration with increasing glass powder content. Furthermore, RGP also met the relative strength requirement as per Australian Standard requirement to be considered as a supplementary cementitious material.

Conclusion:

This research showed that the use of RGP as cement replacement is feasible for replacement level up to 10%. The outcome of this research aims to contribute towards sustainable development by reducing the consumption of cement, as well as reduction of glass waste going into landfill.
Errors in Condom Use in the Setting of HIV Transmission: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jabr Alwazzeh Marwan , Di Stefano Mariantonietta , Greco Pantaleo , Santantonio Teresa , Fiore Jose Ramon
Published: March 2020

Background:

The efficacy of condom use in declining HIV transmission may be compromised by their incorrect usage. Much focus has been paid on the regularity of condom usage but consumer mistakes and challenges must be considered. Breakage, slipping, leakage, incomplete use and other problems during the sexual event may compromise the protective role of the condom.

Objective:

To evaluate through a systematic review of published data, the type, and incidence of error and problems in condom use, and their possible role in reducing the preventive action of condoms.

Methods:

A systematic literature search for peer-reviewed articles published between January 2000 and January 2019, issued in English in peer-reviewed journals, and reporting the occurrence of condom errors/problems among HIV high-risk populations.

Results:

Twenty studies representing nine countries met the inclusion criteria. The most predominant mistakes associated with condom use included condom breakage, slippage, delayed condom application, early removal, issues related to erection loss and difficulties with fit and feel were reported, failure to squeeze out air, use of expired condoms, reuse of condom, and wearing the condom outside out were other issues noticed.

Conclusions:

Condom use problems and mistakes are prevalent across the globe. Educational efforts are needed to empower HIV the at-risk population with confidence and knowledge to improve correct condom use and increase preventive activity
The Effectiveness of Postoperative Antibiotics following Appendectomy in Pediatric Patients: A Cost Minimization Analysis
Authors: Sinuraya Rano K. , Aini Aida N. , Rahayu Cherry , Wathoni Nasrul , Abdulah Rizky
Published: March 2020

Background:

Appendicitis has a high occurrence and is frequently indicated in pediatric abdominal surgery. However, up to 33% of affected children may not present with distinct symptoms, and young children may be a typical or show delayed presentation of symptoms. Appendectomy is one of the most common emergent surgeries to treat appendicitis. After an appendectomy, prophylaxis antibiotics are required to abate infections at the location of surgery and have been shown to reduce postoperative surgical complications significantly.

Objective:

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the most cost-effective prophylactic antibiotic combination between ceftriaxone-metronidazole and cefotaxime-metronidazole following appendectomy.

Methods:

A retrospective observational study was conducted using investigations with a similar design and pediatric medical records from 2011 until 2013 from a referral hospital in Bandung City. All direct medical costs related to pediatric appendectomy were collected and discounted. Independent Student’s t-test and chi-square analysis were used.

Results:

The average total cost of ceftriaxone-metronidazole was USD 393.83/patient and that of cefotaxime-metronidazole was USD 397.89/patient. There were no significant differences in average direct medical costs between treatments with ceftriaxone-metronidazole and cefotaxime-metronidazole (p=0.383). The analysis suggests that both antibiotic combinations have the same effectiveness and cost. For the combinations of ceftriaxone-metronidazole and cefotaxime-metronidazole, approximately USD 1.88 and USD 2.28 were required, respectively, to reduce one day of hospitalization after an appendectomy. Additionally, to increase one percent of cure rate, an amount of USD 19.70 and USD 24.89 was required for ceftriaxone-metronidazole and cefotaxime-metronidazole, respectively.

Conclusion:

Both therapies investigated were effective as a postoperative antibiotic. However, the combination of ceftriaxone and metronidazole may be more cost-efficient.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Poor Quality of Sleep among Prisoners in Mettu Town Prison, Oromia, South West Ethiopia, 2019
Authors: Abdu Zakir , Hajure Mohammedamin
Published: March 2020

Background:

Sleep is one of the basic needs of human beings and is important to their health; sleeping problem has a wide range of causes, including medical and psychological. However, evidence on the burden of sleep problems in low-income countries is lacking. When compared to the general population, the risks of having poor sleep quality are substantially higher in prisoners. However, the prevalence of poor sleep quality among prisoners at national level is not known.

Objective:

To assess the prevalence and associated factors of poor quality of sleep among prisoners in Mettu town prison, 2019.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study design was employed with 310 prisoners selected by a systematic random sampling method. Data was collected by a face to face interview using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Data analysis was done using SPSS version 20.

Results:

The study revealed that 77.1% (n= 239) of participants had poor sleep quality. Marital status: single (AOR=0.11, 95%CI=0.05, 0.26), widowed and divorced (AOR=0.11, 95%CI=0.03, 0.37), history of previous incarceration (AOR=4.8, 95%CI=2.0, 11.79), urban residence (AOR=2.65, 95%CI=1.12, 6.27), unable to read and write and read (AOR=6.10, 95%CI=1.43, 25.9) and lifetime alcohol use (AOR=8.45, 95%CI=3.88, 18.36) had significant association with poor sleep quality.

Conclusion:

This study has shown that the prevalence of poor sleep quality among prisoners was very high. Marital status: single, widowed and divorced, history of previous incarceration, urban residence, cannot write and read and lifetime alcohol use found to have an impact on the prevalence of poor sleep quality.
Reactive and Proactive Aggression among Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Early Adolescents in Norway: The Relations to Emotional and Conduct Problems
Authors: Fandrem Hildegunn , Oppedal Brit , Idsoe Thormod
Published: March 2020

Objective:

This study explores the differences in the association between three
different types of aggression (reactive aggression, power-related proactive aggression and affiliation-
related proactive aggression) and emotional and conduct problems between early
adolescents with immigrant and non-immigrant backgrounds in Norway.

Methods:

The sample comprised 1759 early adolescents in fifth to eighth grade (10- to 15-
year-olds). The proportion of early adolescent immigrants with two foreign-born parents was
862, and 897 participants were adolescents with two Norwegian-born parents. The gender
distribution was similar in the immigrant and non-immigrant samples, 48.2% boys and
49.5% girls. The mean age was 11.6 years (SD 1.25) for immigrant boys, 11.7 (SD 1.29) for
non-immigrant boys, 11.6 (SD = 1.25) for immigrant girls, and 11.8 (SD = 1.27) for nonimmigrant
girls. Data were collected via self-report assessments.

Results:

A multigroup structural equation model revealed that the effects of reactive and
proactive aggression were different for conduct and emotional problems. Only reactive and
power-related proactive aggression was significantly associated with conduct problems, and
effect sizes were independent of immigrant status. The effects of reactive and power-related
proactive aggression on emotional problems were stronger for non-immigrant early adolescents,
while the effects of affiliation-related proactive aggression were stronger for immigrant-
background early adolescents.

Conclusion:

A better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of the associations between
aggression and emotional problems and the variation between immigrant and nonimmigrant
early adolescents can shed light on the etiology of mental health and behavioral
problems. The importance of such knowledge in designing interventions targeting aggression
among early adolescents in multicultural contexts is discussed.
Profile of Digital Mammography Findings in Patients with Histopathologically Proven Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)
Authors: Prabhakar Ankit , Wani Dawood Iqbal , Sharma Shivani , Dar Sajjad Ahmad , Ashraf Shaafiya
Published: March 2020

Breast carcinoma is a heterogeneous group of tumors with a wide spectrum of clinical presentations, lesion characterization and diagnostic evaluation. Ductal carcinoma in situ accounts for 15%-20% of breast carcinomas detected in screened populations. Ductal carcinoma in situ has a variable appearance on mammography. The use of mammography has become as a very helpful tool for the early detection of larger number of patients with ductal carcinoma in situ and, thus, offering timely surgery and the need for the appropriate radiation treatment to patients. This study was undertaken as a hospital-based retrospective study to evaluate the varied spectrum of mammographic findings in 57 women with histopathological diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ. The spectrum of mammographic findings of ductal carcinoma in situ was found to vary widely. A thorough and vigilant inspection of a mammogram is necessary for all the patients to avoid the possibility of missing early diagnosis of this entity, since the findings are very subtle. Most cases show microcalcifications on mammograms and their early detection can help in early diagnosis, thereby offering conservative surgical approach to a patient. Microcalcifications can be present isolated or in association with a mass. These are mostly clustered in distribution followed by regional, segmental and ductal pattern of distribution. The morphology of microcalcifications is mostly amorphous, followed by pleiomorphic and fine heterogenous types. Hence, the mammogram must be interpreted with strict vigilance and proper attention to all aspects for early and correct diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ to help in proper guidance of its treatment.
Primary Alveolar Hydatid Disease: A Rare Case Series with Review of Imaging Findings
Authors: Jehangir Majid , Mariam Abha , Singh Ramandeep , Prabhakar Ankit
Published: March 2020

Alveolar hydatid disease is a rare but potentially fatal parasitic infection caused by Echinococcus multilocularis. To the best of our knowledge, only few cases have been reported from India till date. We present 6 cases of pathologically proven alveolar hydatid disease with review of imaging findings.

The objective of this case series was to share our experiences of pitfalls in diagnosis of alveolar hydatid disease.

Materials and Methods. The study was conducted in Post Graduate Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, Government Medical College, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Our study was conducted between 6th January 2017 to 22nd May 2019. A total of 6 patients were taken up for study. The patients were evaluated clinically and investigated using the relevant imaging modalities. Diagnosis was confirmed by histopathologic examination following core biopsy of lesion.

Results. There were two males and four females with most of patients in age group of 20 to 40 years. Imaging findings in our cases suggest that typical radiological appearance of alveolar hydatid disease can be summarized as an irregular hypoattenuating mass lesion having typical calcifications (can be peripheral, as well as central) with tiny cystic components.
The Value of Data: Applying a Public Value Model to the English National Health Service
Authors: Wilson James , Herron Daniel , Nachev Parashkev , McNally Nick , Williams Bryan , Rees Geraint
Published: March 2020

Research and innovation in biomedicine and health care increasingly depend on electronic data. The emergence of data-driven technologies and associated digital transformations has focused attention on the value of such data. Despite the broad consensus of the value of health data, there is less consensus on the basis for that value; thus, the nature and extent of health data value remain unclear. Much of the existing literature presupposes that the value of data is to be understood primarily in financial terms, and assumes that a single financial value can be assigned. We here argue that the value of a dataset is instead relational; that is, the value depends on who wants to use it and for what purposes. Moreover, data are valued for both nonfinancial and financial reasons. Thus, it may be more accurate to discuss the values (plural) of a dataset rather than the singular value. This plurality of values opens up an important set of questions about how health data should be valued for the purposes of public policy. We argue that public value models provide a useful approach in this regard. According to public value theory, public value is created, or captured, to the extent that public sector institutions further their democratically established goals, and their impact on improving the lives of citizens. This article outlines how adopting such an approach might be operationalized within existing health care systems such as the English National Health Service, with particular focus on actionable conclusions.
The Impact of Portal Satisfaction on Portal Use and Health-Seeking Behavior: Structural Equation Analysis
Authors: Silver Reginald A , Subramaniam Chandrasekar , Stylianou Antonis
Published: March 2020

Background

Our study addresses a gap in the modern information systems (IS) use literature by investigating factors that explain patient portal satisfaction (SWP) and perceptions about health-seeking behavior (HSB). A novel feature of our study is the incorporation of actual portal use data rather than the perceptions of use intention, which prevails in the modern IS literature.

Objective

This study aimed to empirically validate factors that influence SWP as an influencing agent on portal use and HSB. Our population segment was comprised of college students with active patient portal accounts.

Methods

Using web-based survey data from a population of portal users (n=1142) in a university health center, we proposed a theoretical model that adapts constructs from the Technology Acceptance Model by Davis, the revised Technology Adoption Model by Venkatesh, the Unified Theory of the Acceptance and Use of Technology 2, and the Health Belief Model by Rosenstock et al. We validated our model using structural equation modeling techniques.

Results

Our model explained nearly 65% of the variance in SWP (R2=0.6499), nearly 33% of the variance in portal use (R2=0.3250), and 29% of the variance in HSB (R2=0.2900). Statistically significant antecedents of SWP included social influence (beta=.160, t499=6.145), habit (beta=.114, t499=4.89), facilitating conditions (beta=.062, t499=2.401), effort expectancy (beta=.311, t499=11.149), and performance expectancy (beta=.359, t499=11.588). SWP influenced HSB (beta=.505, t499=19.705) and portal use (beta=.050, t499=2.031). We did not find a statistically significant association between portal use and HSB (beta=.015, t499=0.513). Perceived severity significantly influenced HSB (beta=.129, t499=4.675) but not portal use (beta=.012, t499=.488).

Conclusions

Understanding the importance of SWP and the role it plays in influencing HSB may point to future technology design considerations for information technology developers and health care providers. We extend current Expectancy Confirmation Theory research by finding a positive association between SWP and portal use.
Preliminary Effects of a Mobile Interactive Supervised Therapy Intervention on People Living With HIV: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Pang Yan , Molton James Steven , Ooi Wei Tsang , Paton Nicholas Iain , He Hong-Gu
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

As people living with HIV infection require lifelong treatment, nonadherence to medication will reduce their chance of maintaining viral suppression and increase the risk of developing drug resistance and HIV transmission.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a mobile app, Mobile Interactive Supervised Therapy (MIST), for improving adherence to oral HIV medications among HIV-infected adults in Singapore.

METHODS

We conducted a two-group pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a process evaluation, in which 40 HIV-infected participants with once-daily medication regimes were recruited from a public tertiary hospital in Singapore and randomly assigned equally to either the intervention (receiving MIST and routine care) or control (receiving routine care only) groups. The intervention lasted for 2 months. The outcome of antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence was measured by a 7-day recall self-report (SR), pill count (PC), an electronic medical device—Medication Event Monitoring System (MEMS)—and a mobile app—MIST (for the intervention group only). In total, 20 participants from the intervention group were interviewed at the end of the intervention to assess the acceptability of MIST. Data were collected at baseline and at 1-month and 2-month postintervention.

RESULTS

All participants had excellent medication adherence at baseline (median 100, IQR 100-100). The use of MIST did not result in a significant improvement in ART adherence when measured by the SR, PC, and MEMS, as compared with the control group at 1-month (P values >.99, .86, and .74, respectively) and 2-month (P values=.80, .84, and .82, respectively) postintervention. ART adherence also did not improve in each group over the same period. MIST was perceived to be a beneficial tool based on the process evaluation results.

CONCLUSIONS

Although MIST did not enhance medication adherence to HIV treatments, mainly owing to the ceiling effect, it was perceived to be beneficial among the participants of this study. Our process evaluation provided useful data to further develop MIST for bigger and long-term mobile phone app–assisted intervention RCTs in the future.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03794648; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03794648
Entrepreneurs, Teams, and Bureaucracy in Post-WWII America
Authors: Galambos Louis
Published: March 2020

This article leans against specialization by cutting across three disciplines to analyze the entrepreneurial function in modern, U.S capitalism. The author blends the basic ideas of Joseph A. Schumpeter (economics), Alfred D. Chandler (history), and Max Weber (sociology), with recent work done by Daniel Kahneman in behavioral economics. Two case studies are used to illustrate how these ideas interact in the study of innovation; one of the case studies focuses on a startup business and the other on a large, well-established, bureaucratic firm.