bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE LINKAGES BETWEEN FINANCIAL LITERACY AND ITS APPLICATION IN FINANCIAL DECISION-MAKING AMONG ACADEMICIANS IN INDONESIA
Authors: Danila Nevi , Shahwan Yousef , Ali Zaiton , Djalaluddin Ahmad
Published: November 2019

Purpose of the study: Financial literacy has become one of the important policies of the Indonesia government. The improvement of financial literacy is crucial for a more stable financial system and reduces financial fragility. Our research is to examine levels of financial literacy, to identify determinants of financial literacy and to investigate whether knowledge is followed by financial practices.

Methodology: This study employs the survey method, which includes questionnaires sent to academicians in Indonesia. Multiple regression analysis (MRA)is used to empirically analyze the relationship between financial literacy and its application in financial decision-making.  

Main findings: The respondents are financially literate with the same level of financial literacy. Socio-demographic characteristics influence significantly the financial literacy and the capability in cash flow management of the respondents. Further, there is a linkage between the knowledge of financial products (financial literacy) and its application in financial decision-making.

Application: It implies that the knowledge about the financial product is very important for creating a high financial literacy society. The Indonesia government needs to run more seriously one of the pillars in the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion through the Ministry of Education.

Novelty: Most of the previous studies focused on conventional products, while this study includes both conventional and Islamic financial products. Further, we also consider the application of Islamic (shari’ah) financial practices. We investigate the impact of financial literacy with socio-demographic characteristics on its application in financial decision-making.
The positive and negative impact of appearance on various spheres of life – the opinions of women and men of different ages
Authors: Czernecka Julita
Published: November 2019

The aim of the article is to present the results of a study addressing the issue of the positive and negative influence of appearance in the context of private and professional life. The publication is based on qualitative research on attitudes towards the appearance of women and men of different ages. The way of thinking about appearance depends on the conditions of the gendered age – i.e. the gender and age of the respondents. For women, appearance plays an important role in both the public and private spheres, while men have placed greater importance on it in the public sphere. While women still seem to attribute a greater role to physical appearance, more and more men are beginning to see this as a key aspect in interpersonal relationships. On the basis of the research we can observe the coexistence of two models of “femininity” and “masculinity”: patriarchal and androgynous. Sometimes in the same generation there are contradictory internal attitudes towards appearance. In the youngest generation, the process of unifying attitudes towards appearance is noticeable – attractive appearance is perceived by young men and women as one of the key human capital resources.
Badanie świadomości studentów Uniwersytetu Łódzkiego w zakresie przestępstw karuzelowych w podatku od towarów i usług
Authors: Saganowski Tomasz
Published: November 2019

Podatek od towarów i usług już od jego wprowadzenia, czyli 1993 roku stanowi istotne źródło dochodów budżetu państwa. Polska przygotowywała się do przystąpienia do Unii Europejskiej, dlatego musiała przebudować system podatkowy w kierunku dostosowania go do wymogów gospodarki rynkowej. W efekcie zmian, został zlikwidowany system poboru podatku od towarów i usług importowanych na terenie państwa, w którym dokonywane są rozliczenia podatku VAT, w zakresie wewnątrzwspólnotowego obrotu towarowego. Przyczyniło się to do powstania przestępczego mechanizmu – karuzeli podatkowej, polegającej na przepływie towarów pomiędzy państwami członkowskimi Unii Europejskiej w bardzo skomplikowany sposób. Finalnym etapem karuzeli podatkowej jest wyłudzanie zwrotu podatku oraz uchylanie się od jego płacenia. Celem artykułu jest zbadanie oceny świadomości studentów Uniwersytetu Łódzkiego o kierunkach ekonomicznych i prawniczych odnośnie przestępstw karuzelowych, które są przyczyną luki budżetowej oraz zagrożeniem dla uczciwych przedsiębiorców pozbawiając ich odliczeń podatku naliczonego. W artykule postawiona została następująca hipoteza badawcza, czy dotychczasowy program nauczania na kierunkach ekonomicznych i prawniczych Uniwersytetu Łódzkiego jest wystarczająco odpowiedni i należycie uświadamia studentów przed mechanizmem wykorzystywanym przez nieuczciwych przedsiębiorców. Przeprowadzone zostały badania wśród studentów Uniwersytetu Łódzkiego, studiujących kierunki ekonomiczne i prawnicze. W opracowaniu podjęto próbę, pozwalającą ocenić, czy dotychczasowy program nauczania Uniwersytetu Łódzkiego przekazuje odpowiednią wiedzę dotyczącą karuzel podatkowych. Studenci kierunków ekonomicznych i prawniczych powinni być przygotowani na tego typu sytuacje oraz uczuleni na dokładne weryfikowanie nowych kontrahentów. Znając mechanizm wyłudzania podatku od towarów i usług metodą karuzelową, w znacznym stopniu zmniejszy się zjawisko występujące w gospodarce, nie tylko polskiej, ale również europejskiej.
Indústria do Couro na "Roliúde Nordestina"
Authors: Castanha Ana Amélia Albuquerque de Oliveira
Published: November 2019

Este artigo tem como objeto de estudo, o patrimônio industrial do couro e o acervo de Design Vernacular do artesanato local da cidade de Cabaceiras, mais conhecida como “Roliúde Nordestina”, localizada na microrregião do cariri oriental paraibano, situada a 420 m de altitude na Serra da Borborema, à 183 km da capital do estado, João Pessoa e com um clima desértico.  A cidade possui um rico acervo de sobrados preservados do século XIX, onde funcionam vários museus. É reconhecida por seu rico artesanato em couro caprino e curtimento do couro, sendo este mais um atrativo turístico e cultural. Através de investigações realizadas pelo grupo de pesquisa Arquitetura e Lugar, vinculado ao curso de graduação em arquitetura e urbanismo da UFCG e cadastrado no CNPq, o objetivo do artigo é resgatar o acervo industrial do couro, observando-se o que colaborou na construção dessa tradição centenária, assim como a relação que existe entre a fabricação da matéria-prima (industrial), com a produção do artesanato em couro e consequentemente com a cidade, revelando sua identidade cultural. Justifica-se a apresentação deste trabalho pelo ineditismo do tema tradado sobre o patrimônio industrial de Cabaceiras, podendo-se encaixar numa discussão categórica de paisagem cultural.
On Car Sharing Usage Prediction with Open Socio-Demographic Data
Authors: Cocca Michele , Teixeira Douglas , Vassio Luca , Mellia Marco , Almeida Jussara M. , Couto da Silva Ana Paula
Published: November 2019

Free Floating Car Sharing (FFCS) services are a flexible alternative to car ownership. These transportation services show highly dynamic usage both over different hours of the day, and across different city areas. In this work, we study the problem of predicting FFCS demand patterns -- a problem of great importance to an adequate provisioning of the service. We tackle both the prediction of the demand i) over time and ii) over space. We rely on months of real FFCS rides in Vancouver, which constitute our ground truth. We enrich this data with detailed socio-demographic information obtained from large open-data repositories to predict usage patterns. Our aim is to offer a thorough comparison of several machine learning algorithms in terms of accuracy and easiness of training, and to assess the effectiveness of current state-of-art approaches to address the prediction problem. Our results show that it is possible to predict the future usage with relative errors down to 10%, and the spatial prediction can be estimated with relative errors of about 40%. Our study also uncovered the socio-demographic features that most strongly correlate with FFCS usage, providing interesting insights for providers opening service in new regions.
Effects of Plum Plantation Ages on Soil Organic Carbon Mineralization in The Karst Rocky Desertification Ecosystem of Southwest China
Authors: Yang Hui , Mo Biqin , Zhou Mengxia , Zhu Tongbin , Cao Jianhua
Published: November 2019

Soil organic carbon (SOC) mineralization is closely related to carbon source or sink of terrestrial ecosystem. Understanding soil organic carbon (SOC) mineralization under plum plantation is essential for improving our understanding of SOC responses to land-use change in karst rocky desertification ecosystem. In this study, 2-y, 5-y and 20-y plum plantations and adjacent woodland were sampled and a 90-day incubation experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of plum plantation with different years on SOC mineralization in subtropical China. Results showed that: (1) there was no significant difference in SOC content between different planting years, but there were significant differences in accumulative SOC mineralization (Ct) and potential SOC mineralization (C0); (2) the dynamics of the SOC mineralization was a good fit to a first-order kinetic model. Both C0 and Ct in calcareous soil of this study was several to ten folds lower than that in other soils, indicating that SOC in karst region has higher stability. (3) Correlation analysis revealed that both Ct and C0 was significantly correlated with soil calcium (Ca) and C/N, indicating the important role of Ca and C/N in SOC mineralization in karst rocky desertification area.
Studi eksperimental pengaturan waktu pengapian pada mesin 4 langkah 1 silinder berbahan bakar E25
Authors: AJi Arjuna , Santoso Budi , Danardono Dominicus
Published: November 2019

The use of ethanol as a mixture of premium is for reducing dependency to the primuim, considering that premium is not renewable. The goal of the ethanol addition in a fuel is to increase the octane number. However the heating value of the ethanol is lower then premium, so it will decrease the performance of the SI engine. The study aimed for increasing the performance of SI engine using E25 as mixture of premium-ethanol. The performance of engine was measured by engine test bed on chassis. Change load method is used in the experiment. The experiments result is advancing the time of ignition at 4 degree that can improve the engine performance. The result of changes load use E25 fuel with advanced time of ignition at 4 degree can increase engine performance as torque, power, bmep, efficiency thermal and bsfc were decrease.
Diaper Need Met Among Low-Income US Children Younger Than 4 Years in 2016
Authors: Massengale Kelley E. C. , Comer Lynn H. , Austin Anna E. , Goldblum Joanne S.
Published: November 2019

Objectives. To document the collective effort of diaper banks in the United States and to estimate the percentage of low-income children whose diaper need is met through these efforts.

Methods. For each state, we compared the number of children younger than 4 years in families living at or below 200% of the federal poverty level with the number of children served by diaper banks in each state. We collected data reporting all 2016 activities from diaper banks (n = 262) via survey from January to March 2017.

Results. In each state, the percentage of children experiencing diaper need that received assistance from a diaper bank ranged from 0% to 16% per month.

Conclusions. The findings from this study highlight that a small proportion of low-income families accessed diapers through the existing community-based safety net provided by a national network of nonprofit diaper banks.

Public Health Implications. Policies at the federal, state, and municipal level are needed to alleviate this consequence of poverty for children and their families.
Prevalence of Injecting Drug Use and Coverage of Interventions to Prevent HIV and Hepatitis C Virus Infection Among People Who Inject Drugs in Canada
Authors: Jacka Brendan , Larney Sarah , Degenhardt Louisa , Janjua Naveed , Høj Stine , Krajden Mel , Grebely Jason , Bruneau Julie
Published: November 2019

Objectives. To determine the number of people who inject drugs (PWID) in Canada and the annual coverage of opioid agonist treatment (OAT) and needle-and-syringe provision for PWID.

Methods. We estimated the number of PWID in 11 of 13 Canadian provinces and territories in 2011 by using indirect multiplier methods based on provincial and territorial methadone recipient totals and proportion of surveyed PWID receiving methadone. We modeled annual increases for 2011 to 2016 on Quebec and British Columbia longitudinal data. We calculated needle-and-syringe coverage (World Health Organization [WHO] recommendation: ≥ 200 per PWID) and OAT coverage (WHO recommendation: ≥ 40 per 100 PWID) per province and territory annually.

Results. An estimated 130 000 individuals in Canada (0.55%) injected drugs in 2011, increasing to 171 900 individuals (0.70%) in 2016. Needle-and-syringe coverage increased from 193 to 291 per PWID, and OAT coverage increased from 55 to 66 per 100 PWID over the study period.

Conclusions. While the number of PWID increased between 2011 and 2016, OAT coverage remained high, and needle-and-syringe coverage generally improved over time.

Public Health Implications. These data will inform public health surveillance, service planning, and resource allocation, and assist monitoring of treatment and harm-reduction coverage outcomes.
The Time Is Now to End the HIV Epidemic
Authors: Giroir Brett P.
Published: November 2019

In his State of the Union Address on February 5, 2019, President Donald J. Trump announced his administration’s goal to end the domestic HIV epidemic. Following the announcement of the Ending the HIV Epidemic: A Plan for America initiative, the president proposed $291 million in new funding for the fiscal year 2020 Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) budget to implement a new initiative to reduce the number of new HIV infections by 75% in the next five years (2025) and by 90% in the next 10 years (2030). This is in addition to the $20 billion the US government already spends each year, domestically, for HIV prevention and care.

With this initiative, HHS recognizes that the time to end the HIV epidemic is now: we have the right data, the right biomedical and behavioral tools, and the right leadership. With the new resources, the goal is achievable.

This article outlines how this initiative will be accomplished through the implementation of four fundamental strategies that will be tailored by local communities on the basis of their own needs and strengths.
Effect of Obesity on Pain and Functional Recovery Following Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Collins Jamie E. , Donnell-Fink Laurel A. , Yang Heidi Y. , Usiskin Ilana M. , Lape Emma C. , Wright John , Katz Jeffrey N. , Losina Elena
Published: November 2019

Background:

While obesity may be a risk factor for complications following total knee arthroplasty, data remain sparse on the impact of the degree of obesity on patient-reported outcomes following this procedure. Our objective was to determine the extent to which obesity level affects the trajectory of recovery as well as patient-reported pain, function, and satisfaction with surgery following total knee arthroplasty.

Methods:

We followed a cohort of patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty at 1 of 4 medical centers. Patients were ≥40 years of age with a primary diagnosis of osteoarthritis. We stratified patients into 5 groups according to the World Health Organization classification of body mass index (BMI). We assessed the association between BMI group and pain and function over the time intervals of 0 to 3, 3 to 6, and 6 to 24 months using a piecewise linear model. We also assessed the association between BMI group and patient-reported outcomes at 24 months. Multivariable models adjusted for age, sex, race, diabetes, musculoskeletal functional limitations index, pain medication use, and study site.

Results:

Of the 633 participants included in our analysis, 19% were normal weight (BMI of <25 kg/m2), 32% were overweight (BMI of 25 to 29.9 kg/m2), 27% were class-I obese (BMI of 30 to 34.9 kg/m2), 12% were class-II obese (BMI of 35 to 39.9 kg/m2), and 9% were class-III obese (BMI of ≥40 kg/m2). Study participants with a higher BMI had worse preoperative WOMAC (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index) pain and function scores and had greater improvement from baseline to 3 months. The mean change in pain and function from 3 to 6 and from 6 to 24 months was similar across all BMI groups. At 24 months, participants in all BMI groups had similar levels of pain, function, and satisfaction.

Conclusions:

Because of the differential trajectory of recovery in the first 3 months following total knee arthroplasty, the participants in the higher BMI groups were able to attain absolute pain and function scores similar to those in the nonobese and class-I obese groups. These data can help surgeons discuss expectations of pain relief and functional improvement with total knee arthroplasty candidates with higher BMI.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Two and Three-Dimensional CT Mapping of Hoffa Fractures
Authors: Xie Xuetao , Zhan Yu , Dong Minjie , He Qifang , Lucas Justin F. , Zhang Yingqi , Wang Yukai , Luo Congfeng
Published: November 2019

Background:

Hoffa fractures, coronal-plane fractures involving the distal femoral condyles, are unstable, intra-articular fractures. The aim of this study was to define the location and frequency of fracture lines and comminution zones in Hoffa fractures using computed tomography (CT) mapping in both 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional contexts.

Methods:

Seventy-five Hoffa fractures (OTA/AO types 33B3.2 and 33B3.3) were retrospectively reviewed. The directions of fracture lines were characterized in the axial and sagittal CT planes. CT images for all fractures were superimposed on one another and oriented to fit a standard template. Mapping of fracture lines and comminution zones in both the axial and sagittal planes was performed. A 3-dimensional map was created by reducing reconstructed fracture fragments to fit to a model of the distal aspect of the femur.

Results:

This study included 1 bicondylar and 74 unicondylar (26 medial and 48 lateral) Hoffa fractures. Comminuted fractures accounted for 35.5% of all fractures and 44.9% of lateral fractures. Axial fracture mapping demonstrated that fracture lines were concentrated in the middle-third area of the lateral condyle but were less concentrated and with greater variation in the medial condyle. The mean angle of fracture lines with respect to the posterior condylar axis was 34.4° and 29.0° in the lateral and medial femoral condyles, respectively. Sagittal fracture mapping also demonstrated that fracture lines were concentrated in the middle third of the lateral condyle but were less concentrated in the medial condyle. The mean angle of fracture lines with respect to the posterior cortex of the distal femoral shaft was 23.1° and 19.3° in the lateral and medial condyles, respectively. Three-dimensional mapping demonstrated comminution zones commonly occurring in the weight-bearing zone of the lateral condylar articular surface.

Conclusions:

Hoffa fractures occurred more frequently in the lateral femoral condyle. In the axial plane, fractures commonly extended from anterolateral to posteromedial in the lateral condyle and from anteromedial to posterolateral in the medial femoral condyle. In the sagittal plane, fractures traversed from anteroinferior to posterosuperior. Articular comminution was more commonly seen in lateral condylar fractures and concentrated in the weight-bearing zone of the articular surface.

Clinical Relevance:

Research in this area is imperative for optimal preoperative planning, such as for the selection of surgical approach and fixation constructs. Our findings lend insight into fracture morphology, which can assist with fracture classification and the design of biomechanical studies, ultimately aiding in treatment.
Peningkatan Aktivitas Pembelajaran dan Hasil Belajar Visual Merchandising Melalui Metode Penyelesaian Masalah
Authors: Abidin Zainal
Published: November 2019

The purpose of this study is to improve learning activities and learning outcomes for visual merchandising through problem solving methods. This research uses action research with a cycle of three times. Each cycle consists of four stages: design, activity and observation, reflection, and refission. The subject of this research is the students of class XI Data Marketing. From the results of the analyst found that student achievement has increased from cycle I to cycle III. Cycle I 64.00%, cycle II 76.00%, cycle III 88.00%. The conclusion of this study is that the problem solving method can positively influence the activities and learning outcomes of Class XI Marketing Students in Visual Merchandising subjects.
A Multiphase, Multicomponent Reservoir-Simulation Framework for Miscible Gas and Steam Coinjection
Authors: Jiang Jiajun , James Scott C. , Mojarab Mohamad
Published: November 2019

The solvent thermal resource innovation process (STRIP), a downhole steam-generation technology, has the capacity to show improved recovery factors with a significantly reduced environmental footprint compared with traditional thermal-enhanced-oil-recovery (TEOR) methods, most notably by delivering all the combustion heat to the pay zone. In this effort, a quarter-symmetry inverse-five-spot model and a multiphase, multicomponent reservoir-simulation framework were used to simulate the STRIP technology. Commercial simulators such as STARS - Thermal and Advanced Processes Reservoir Simulator [Computer Modelling Group Ltd. (CMG), Calgary, Alberta, Canada; CMG 2015b] often use the K-value approach to simulate TEOR. However, the method cannot simulate STRIP's carbon dioxide (CO2) and steam coinjection because the K-value method does not consider miscible gas injection. On the other hand, CMG's GEM - Compositional and Unconventional Simulator (CMG 2015a) includes the effects of miscible gases but does not provide comprehensive support for steam-injection processes, which are better handled by STARS. The novel simulation framework developed here leverages and combines the individual strengths of STARS (thermal features) and GEM (compositional features). In this framework, STARS simulated steam injection (but cannot directly simulate the effects of CO2) and was the governing model that synchronized temperature, pressure, and phase saturations for two parallel iterations of the GEM models (GEM-1 and GEM-2) at each timestep. Immiscible methane (CH4) was added to GEM models to maintain gas saturations equivalent to the STARS model. GEM-1 simulated hot-water and CH4 injection, but at increased rates to yield a pressure field and gas saturations equivalent to STARS. A final run of GEM-1 injected both CO2 and hot water and demonstrated the expected increase in oil production. Calibrated injection rates from GEM-1 were specified in GEM-2 to ensure equivalence of the pressure field. Next, the GEM-2 model also simulated hot-water and CH4 injection, but matched both water and oil productions along with oil saturations from the final GEM-1 run by altering relative permeabilities. Finally, the updated relative permeabilities were fed back to STARS, and iteration proceeded. Results from this framework were verified against a STARS steam-injection simulation. Finally, when considering coinjection of CO2, STRIP's superior performance was demonstrated through increased oil recovery and a lower steam/oil ratio (SOR).
Fully Coupled Modeling of Dynamic Loading of the Wellbore
Authors: Meng Meng , Miska Stefan Z. , Yu Mengjiao , Ozbayoglu Evren M.
Published: November 2019

Loadings acting on a wellbore are more realistically regarded as dynamic rather than static, and the wellbore response under dynamic loading can be different from that under static loading. Under dynamic loading, the inertia term should be considered and the changing rate of loading could induce a change in the mechanical properties of the wellbore, which might compromise wellbore stability and integrity. In this paper, a fully coupled poroelastodynamic model is proposed to study wellbore behavior. This model not only considers fully coupled deformation/diffusion effects, but also includes both solid and fluid inertia terms. The implicit finite-difference method was applied to solve the governing equations, which allows this model to handle all kinds of dynamic loading conditions. After modifying the existing code only slightly, our numerical solution can neglect inertia terms. The numerical results were validated by comparing them to the analytical solution with a simulated sinusoidal boundary condition. To understand this model better, a sensitivity analysis was performed, and the influence of inertia terms was investigated. After that, the model was applied to analyze wellbore stability under tripping operations. The results show that the inertial effect is insignificant for tripping and a fully coupled, quasistatic model is recommended for wellbore stability under tripping operations. The fully coupled poroelastodynamic model should be used for rapid dynamic loading conditions, such as earthquakes and perforations.
Intra-abdominal infections: the role of different classifications on the selection of the best antibiotic treatment.
Authors: Nunes João Silva , Cardoso Teresa Maria Costa
Published: November 2019

Background: Intra-abdominal infections (IAIs) represent a serious cause of morbimortality. A full classification, including all facets of IAIs, does not exist. Two classifications are used to subdivide IAIs: uncomplicated or complicated, considering infection extent; and community-acquired, healthcare-associated or hospital-acquired, regarding the place of acquisition. Inadequate antibiotic therapy is associated with treatment failure and increased mortality. This study was designed to determine accuracy of different classifications of IAIs to identify infections by pathogens sensitive to current treatment guidelines helping the selection of the best antibiotic therapy. Methods: A retrospective cohort study including all adult patients discharged from hospital with a diagnosis of IAI between 1st of January and 31st of October 2016. All variables potentially associated with pre-defined outcomes: infection by a pathogen sensitive to non-pseudomonal cephalosporin or ciprofloxacin plus metronidazole (ATB 1, primary outcome), sensitive to piperacillin-tazobactam (ATB 2) and hospital mortality (secondary outcomes) were studied through logistic regression. Accuracy of the models was assessed by area under receiver operating characteristics (AUROC) curve and calibration was tested using the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test. Results: Of 1804 patients screened 154 met inclusion criteria. Sensitivity to ATB 1 was independently associated with male gender (adjusted OR=2.612) and previous invasive procedures in the last year (adjusted OR=0.424) (AUROC curve=0,65). Sensitivity to ATB 2 was independently associated with liver disease (adjusted OR=3.580) and post-operative infections (adjusted OR=2.944) (AUROC curve=0.604). Hospital mortality was independently associated with age≥70 (adjusted OR=4.677), solid tumour (adjusted OR=3.127) and sensitivity to non-pseudomonal cephalosporin or ciprofloxacin plus metronidazole (adjusted OR=0.368). The accuracy of pre-existing classifications to identify infection by a pathogen sensitive to ATB 1 was 0.59 considering place of acquisition, 0.61 infection extent and 0.57 local of infection, for ATB 2 it was 0.66, 0.50 and 0.57, respectively. Conclusion: None of existing classifications had a good discriminating power to identify IAIs caused by pathogens sensitive to current antibiotic treatment recommendations. A new classification, including patients’ individual characteristics like those included in the current model, might have a higher potential to distinguish IAIs by resistant pathogens allowing a better choice of empiric antibiotic therapy. Keywords: intra-abdominal infections; classification; antibiotic therapy; hospital mortality.
Magnitude of Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Factors among Food Handlers Working at Woldia University Student’s Cafeteria, Northeastern Ethiopia: An institution based cross-sectional study
Authors: Alemnew Birhan , Belay Yalemzewud , Demis Asmamaw
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Objectives: the main of this study was to assess the Magnitude of intestinal parasitic infections and associated factors among food handlers working at Woldia University Student’s cafeteria, Northeastern Ethiopia. Institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted among 256 study participants in Woldia university student’s cafeteria, Northern Ethiopia. Systematic random sampling method was used to select the study participants. Data was collected using a standardized questionnaire by direct interviewing of study participants. Logistic regression was carried out to identify factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections.
Results: A total of 256 food handlers were enrolled making the overall magnitude of the intestinal parasite which was stool specimens positive for different diagnostic stages of parasites was found to be 43(16.8%). Entamoeba histolytica/dispar was the most prevalent parasites 14(5.5%), followed by Giardia lamblia 10(3.9%). Lack of food safety training [AOR = 6.58; 95%CI: 2.46–17.62], no regular medical checkup [AOR=2.41; 95 %CI: 1.47-4.24], no handwashing practice after toilet by soap[AOR =3.24; 95%CI: 1.28-8.19], no handwashing practice before eating by soap [AOR =4.03; 95%CI:1.64-9.91] and haven’t food preparation license [AOR= 6.13; 95 % CI: 2.18-17.22] were significantly associated with parasitic infection among food handlers.
Keywords: Intestinal parasites, Food handlers, Student cafeteria, Woldia University
Analysis of reporting completeness in exercise cancer trials: a systematic review
Authors: Meneses-Echavez Jose F , Elkins Mark , Rodriguez-Prieto Indira , Martinez-Torres Javier , Nguyen Lien , Bidonde Julia
Published: November 2019

Background Exercise is an effective therapeutic intervention for cancer survivors. Concerns about the completeness of reporting of exercise interventions have been raised in the literature, but without any formal analysis. This study aimed to evaluate the completeness of reporting of exercise interventions for cancer survivors in a representative sample of randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Methods We developed a pre-defined protocol. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL for exercise trials in oncology between 2010 and 2017. Pairs of independent researchers screened the records, extracted study characteristics, and TIDieR criteria. The 12-item TIDieR checklist was used to generate a score of reporting completeness, based on how much of the recommended content was reported in the included trials. Because Item 5 on the checklist has two components and Item 8 has four components, the derived score was calculated as how many of the 16 components were reported, converted to a percentage. Results We included 131 RCTs reporting 138 interventions in the analysis. Breast cancer was the most common type of cancer (69, 50%), and aerobic exercise was the most studied exercise modality (43, 30%) followed by combined aerobic and resistance training (40, 28%). Completeness of reporting ranged from 42% to 96% among the TIDieR items; none of the items was fully reported. ‘Intervention length’ was the most reported item across interventions (133, 96%), followed by ‘rationale’ (131, 95%), whereas ‘provider’ (58, 42%) and ‘how well (planned)’ (63, 46%) were the two least reported items. Half of the TIDieR items were completely reported in 50% to 70% of the interventions, and only four items were reported in more than 80% of the interventions (Items 2 and 8a to c). The seven items deemed to be core for replication (Items 3 to 9) exhibited a mean reporting of 71%, ranging from 42% to 96%. Conclusion Exercise training interventions for cancer survivors are incompletely reported across RCTs published between 2010 and 2017. The reporting of information about the provider, materials, and modifications require urgent improvements. Stronger reporting will enhance usability of trial reports by both healthcare providers and survivors, and will help to reduce research waste.
The Dental Complications of Canine Tooth Bud Removal in 2-12 Years Old Children in North West Ethiopia
Authors: Teshome Amare , Assefa Berihun
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Objective: Canine tooth bud removal is a process of gouging out an infant’s canine tooth buds, using unsterile tools such as Sharpe blade, garlic, or knitting needle, without anesthesia. The aim of the study was to reveal dental complications of canine tooth bud removal among children visited the dental clinic of the University of Gondar hospital. This study was an institution-based cross-sectional conducted from January 2015-September 2016 at university of Gondar hospital on 2-12 years children. The tooth was assessed for whether it had previously oral mutilated or not. In addition to this, the oral cavity was evaluated for the presence of missed, malformed or normal canine
Results : A group of 355 children aged 2-12 years was examined clinically. The mean age of the children was 7.32±3.12 (SD). The prevalence of canine tooth bud removal was 86.8% which was high in 6-9 years old (54.87%) and first position children (40.26%). The most common dental complications were; malformed enamel (hypoplastic) canine (48.5%) and missed/Unerupted canine (38.6%).
Virtual Reality as an Adjunct to Anesthesia in the Operating Room
Authors: Faruki Adeel Ahmad , Nguyen Thy , Proeschel Samantha , Levy Nadav , Yu Jessica , Ip Victoria , Mueller Ariel , Banner-Goodspeed Valerie , O’Gara Brian
Published: November 2019

Background Advancements in virtual reality (VR) technology have resulted in its expansion into healthcare. Preliminary studies have found VR to be effective as an adjunct to anesthesia to reduce pain and anxiety for patients during upper gastrointestinal endoscopies, dental procedures and joint arthroplasties. Current standard care practice for upper extremity surgery includes a combination of regional anesthesia and intraoperative propofol sedation. Commonly, patients receive deep propofol sedation during these cases, leading to potentially avoidable risks of over-sedation, hypotension, upper airway obstruction, and apnea. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of VR technology to promote relaxation for patients undergoing upper extremity surgery, thereby reducing intraoperative anesthetic requirements and improving the perioperative patient experience. Methods In this single-center randomized controlled trial, 40 adult patients undergoing upper extremity orthopedic surgery will be randomly allocated to either intraoperative VR immersion or usual care. VR immersion is designed to provide patients a relaxing virtual environment to alleviate intraoperative anxiety. All patients receive a peripheral nerve block prior to surgery. Patients in the intervention group will select videos or immersive environments that will be played in the VR headset during surgery. An anesthesia provider will perform their usual clinical responsibilities intraoperatively and can administer anesthetic medications if/when clinically necessary. Patients in the control arm will undergo perioperative anesthesia according to standard care practice. The primary outcome is the difference in intraoperative propofol dose between groups. Secondary outcomes include postoperative analgesia requirements and pain scores, length of stay in the post-anesthesia care unit, overall patient satisfaction and postoperative functional outcomes. Discussion It is unknown whether the use of VR during upper extremity surgery can reduce intraoperative anesthetic requirements, reduce perioperative complications, or improve the postoperative patient experience. A positive result of this clinical trial would add to the growing body of evidence that demonstrates the effectiveness of VR as an adjunct to anesthesia in reducing intraoperative pain and anxiety for multiple procedure types. This could lead to a change in practice, with the introduction of a non-pharmacologic intervention potentially reducing the burden of over-sedation while still providing a satisfactory perioperative experience.
Liver Cirrhosis, Etiology and Clinical Characteristics Disparities among Minority Population
Authors: Tailakh Muhammad Abu , Poupko Liat , Kayyal Najwan , Ali Alsana , Etzion Ohad , Abu-Kaf Heba , Fich Alexander , Yardni David , Nevo-Shor Anat , Ganim Abed Abu , Abu-Freha Naim
Published: November 2019

Background: Liver cirrhosis (LC) is a common disease with varied primary causes and ethnic disparities. We aimed to determine the frequency, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of LC among the Arab Bedouin (AB) population in southern Israel. Methods: This retrospective and follow-up study enrolled all patients diagnosed with LC at the gastroenterology and hepatology department or the internal medicine ward. Patient records were reviewed for demographic, clinical data, and mortality. Clinical primary outcomes were defined as death, hepatocellular carcinoma or liver transplantation. Results: We included 820 patients 69 (8.4%) AB and 752 (91.6%) Jewish patients. Incidence of cirrhosis found in our study was much lower among AB patients, 5-10/100,000/year, compared with 20-40/100,000 per year in Jewish patients. Age at diagnosis was 42.6±16.9 years among Bedouins compared to 61±13 years (p<0.001) among Jews. The study included 25 (36.2%) male AB and 472 (63%) male Jewish patients (p<0.001). The most frequent causes of LC among AB were cryptogenic (24.6%), hepatitis B (18.8%) and autoimmune hepatitis (17.4%), while hepatitis C (41.7%), fatty liver (16.5%) and alcoholic liver disease (15.5%) were most common among Jewish patients. An all-cause mortality of 41.8% was found in AB patients compared to 63.4% in Jewish patients (p<0.001). Primary clinical outcomes were found by 34 (49%) AB patients and by 510 (67.9%) Jewish patients (p=0.002), with 46 and 608 events, retrospectively. Conclusions: The incidence of liver cirrhosis among Arab Bedouin is lower than that in the Jewish population, with disparities in etiology, age at diagnosis, presence of complications and mortality.
Bactericidal Efficacy of Meropenem in Combination with Cefmetazole against IMP-producing Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Abe Ryuichiro , Hagiya Hideharu , Akeda Yukihiro , Yamamoto Norihisa , Ishii Yoshikazu , Tomono Kazunori
Published: November 2019

Objective: Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) are among the most severe threats to public and clinical health because of their high levels of resistance to various antibiotics. We assessed the efficacy of combination therapy with meropenem (MEM) and cefmetazole (CMZ) against Imipenemase (IMP)-producing CRE, using the checkerboard method and time-killing assay on 13 Enterobacteriaceae isolates harboring blaIMP-1 (4 Enterobacter hormaechei, 5 Escherichia coli, and 4 Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates) and 13 isolates harboring blaIMP-6 (8 E. coli and 5 K. pneumoniae isolates). Results: Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of MEM and CMZ ranged from 2 to 64 and 64 to 2048 μg/mL, respectively. Checkerboard method demonstrated the synergy of the MEM/CMZ combination in all the tested IMP-producing CRE isolates, and the time-kill assay indicated a bactericidal effect for both blaIMP-1 and blaIMP-6 positive CRE when MEM/CMZ combination was used. In vitro, the MEM/CMZ combination was potentially effective against IMP-1- or IMP-6-producing CRE. Further investigations including in vivo animal studies and clinical studies are warranted to corroborate the clinical utility of the novel combination therapy.
Severe Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Eastern China Microbial Etiology and Multidrug-Resistance
Authors: She Jun , Wang Yuli , Ni Xiaoying , Huang Shenglei , Jia Ping , Yang Ping , Zhu Lei
Published: November 2019

Background: Limited information existed about the distributions of microbial etiology and drug-resistance with severe community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in China, partly attributing to the antibiotics abuse in rearing livestock for Chinese farmers in recent decades. Moreover, the relevant guidelines have not been updated for at least a decade.Methods: A prospective observational study was carried out in Zhongshan Hospital (Shanghai, China). All consecutive cases of severe CAP diagnosed in Respiratory intensive care unit (ICU) and Emergency ICU were included. We assessed the microbial etiology features and multidrug-resistance (MDR) status. The risk factors were used by multivariate analyses for outcomes.Results: One hundred and twelve adults with severe CAP in ICUs, mean age of 65.7±15.1 years were studied. Etiological diagnoses were established in 76 (67.9%) cases; Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most frequent pathogen in 27 (35.5%) cases followed by Acinetobacter baumannii (n=15, 19.7%) and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (n=9, 11.8%); While Streptococcus pneumoniae (n=3, 3.9%) was ranked the 6 th in the study. The majority of pathogens were the MDR and the 30-days mortality rate was 43.8% in severe CAP patients. Klebsiella pneumoniae (OR, 6.88; 95%CI, 1.13-41.83), Sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA)≥5(OR, 12.30; 95%CI, 1.79-84.55) was associated to death.Conclusions: The study indicates a change in the usual pattern of microbiol etiology of severe CAP and the MDR emerged in the majority of pathogens over a decade in eastern China. Enhanced control of using antibiotics to reduce the acquired resistance is urgent.
Identifying and selecting implementation theories, models and frameworks: a qualitative study to inform the development of a decision support tool
Authors: Strifler Lisa , Barnsley Jan M. , Hillmer Michael , Straus Sharon E.
Published: November 2019

Background Implementation theories, models and frameworks offer guidance when implementing and sustaining healthcare evidence-based interventions. However, selection can be challenging given the myriad of potential options. We propose to develop a decision support tool to facilitate the appropriate selection of an implementation theory, model or framework in practice. To inform tool development, this study aimed to explore barriers and facilitators to identifying and selecting implementation theories, models and frameworks in research and practice, as well as end-user preferences for features and functions of the proposed tool.Methods We used an interpretive descriptive approach to conduct semi-structured interviews with implementation researchers and practitioners in Canada, the United States and Australia. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim. Data were inductively coded by a single investigator with a subset of 20% coded independently by a second investigator and analyzed using thematic analysis.Results A total of 24 participants identified characteristics of the individual or team conducting implementation and characteristics of the implementation theory, model or framework as major categories of barriers/facilitators to inform tool development. Major barriers to selection included inconsistent terminology, poor fit with the implementation context and limited knowledge about and training in existing theories, models and frameworks. Major facilitators to selection included the importance of clear and concise language and evidence that the theory, model or framework was applied in a relevant health setting or context. Participants were enthusiastic about the development of a decision support tool that is user-friendly, accessible and practical. Preferences for tool features included key questions about the implementation intervention or project (e.g., purpose, stage of implementation, intended target for change) and a comprehensive list of relevant theories, models and frameworks to choose from along with a glossary of terms and the contexts in which they were applied.Conclusions An easy to use decision support tool that addresses key barriers to selecting an implementation theory, model or framework in practice may be beneficial to individuals who facilitate implementation practice activities. Findings on end-user preferences for tool features and functions will inform tool design and development through a user-centered approach.
Could electronic information systems enhance the quality of Aboriginal health promotion? Findings of an audit of Aboriginal health programs in the Northern Territory of Australia
Authors: Percival Nikki Ann , Boucher Priscilla , Conte Kathleen , Robertson Kate , Cook Julie
Published: November 2019

Background: In Australia, health services are seeking innovative ways to utilize data available in electronic patient information systems, such as Electronic Health Records, to report on, and improve, the quality of health care delivery and health system performance for Aboriginal Australians. These systems provide a valuable source of information on delivery of health care to individuals but are rarely designed for community-level health services, such as health promotion and disease prevention projects. Therefore, research about the use of information systems in health promotion and the potential to report on health promotion quality has received little attention in the academic literature. This study utilizes data stored in a specifically designed, commercially available, health promotion information system (QIPPS) to examine the potential for reporting and improving Aboriginal health promotion. Methods: A structured audit tool was used to extract information from a sample of 39 health promotion projects delivered between 2013 and 2016 in Aboriginal communities of the Northern Territory. Project level data were aggregated and reported as best practice indicators of Aboriginal health promotion quality. Qualitative text describing community participation in health promotion were also captured. Results: QIPPS provided an organized data source on a vast array of health promotion project information for secondary analysis. Using a structured data collection tool enabled project level information to be aggregated at a system-wide level and identified gaps in quality indicators. Information about some aspects of health promotion, like community participation in project planning, was described in detail such that it could be used for quality improvement purposes, however, information about other areas, particularly during project implementation and evaluation, was limited. Conclusion: Project information stored in a specifically designed health promotion electronic information systems can be used to report on and improve Aboriginal health promotion efforts. Data availability and quality were limiting factors for reporting health promotion quality. Strategies to improve the quality and accuracy of data entry together with the use of quality improvement approaches are needed to reap the potential benefits of health promotion information systems.