bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Female Nutritional Status across the Life-Span in Sub-Saharan Africa. 1. Prevalence Patterns
Authors: Leslie Joanne , Ciemins Elizabeth , Essama Suzanne Bibi
Published: November 2018

This article reviews and synthesizes existing nutritional studies that provide gender-disaggregated data from sub-Saharan Africa. The analytic focus is on female nutritional status across the life-span. However, it was found that available data are biased towards preschool children and women of reproductive age. As in other economically disadvantaged parts of the world, the two most prevalent nutritional deficiencies among females in sub-Saharan Africa are iron-deficiency anaemia and protein-energy malnutrition. In comparison with other regions of the world, sub-Saharan African females seem to be nutritionally better off than females in South Asia, but as malnourished as, or more malnourished than, females elsewhere. Indirect indicators of nutritional status, such as birthweight and maternal mortality, suggest that the nutritional situation of women in Western Africa is poorer than that of women in Eastern and Southern Africa. In comparison with males in sub-Saharan Africa, however, no consistent pattern of female nutritional disadvantage was found.
The need for new GP consultation models
Authors: Mirza Deen
Published: November 2018

In the 20th century, the discipline of general practice developed models of the consultation process. Thanks in part to this body of literature, general practice has emerged as arguably the most important medical speciality in the world. Now a variety of social factors have profoundly changed the nature of the GP consultation. This article questions the adequacy of these traditional GP consultation models in the context of developing constraints, and then describes two new consultation models for the 21st century.
Etiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Dynamic Nerve Compression Syndromes of the Elbow Among High-Level Pitchers: A Review of 7 Cases
Authors: von Bergen Tobias N. , Lourie Gary M.
Published: November 2018

Background:

Dynamic compressive neuropathies around the elbow are a rare entity described by a relatively small body of literature, mostly consisting of single-case reports. No standardized diagnostic protocols have been described to date. To the authors’ knowledge, this study represents the largest case series of dynamic compressive neuropathies in the upper extremity.

Purpose:

To identify various etiologies of dynamic compressive neuropathies around the elbow, devise a systematic diagnostic protocol, and review treatment options.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A retrospective review was conducted of patients who presented to a single practice between 2013 and 2017 and were diagnosed with a dynamic compressive neuropathy around the elbow.

Results:

A total of 7 patients were identified, with a mean follow-up of 2 years. All patients were high-level pitchers. One patient was a minor league pitcher; 4 patients were National Collegiate Athletic Association athletes; and 2 patients were high school athletes. All patients underwent a systematic diagnostic workup. The diagnosis was established with dynamic nerve conduction testing. Three etiologies for dynamic nerve compression around the elbow were identified: 1 case of lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve compression by the biceps tendon, 3 cases of ulnar nerve compression by an anconeus epitrochlearis muscle, and 3 cases of posterior interosseous nerve compression at the arcade of Frohse with hypertrophic extensor carpi radialis brevis and extensor digitorum communis muscles. Two patients were treated conservatively, while 5 patients required surgery. All patients were able to return to pitching.

Conclusion:

Dynamic compressive neuropathies around the elbow are rare entities that present unique diagnostic challenges to the treating clinician. In this cohort, all patients were young throwing athletes. Physical examination of the patient frequently lacks typical findings of chronic nerve entrapment syndromes. Dynamic nerve conduction studies establish the diagnosis, and treatment often requires surgical decompression to achieve complete resolution of symptoms.
Thrombosis and kidney disease in cancer: comorbidities defining a very high risk patient: A position paper from the Cancer & the Kidney International Network
Authors: Launay-Vacher Vincent , Scotté Florian , Riess Hanno , Ashman Neil , McFarlane Philip , Ribic C Christine Maria , Elalamy Ismail
Published: November 2018

Cancer & the Kidney International Network was created in 2014. The aim was to improve the management of cancer patients by developing clinical and scientific knowledge on the main topic of cancer and the kidney. Therefore, the Cancer & the Kidney International Network created a special working group: the Thrombosis, Kidney Disease, and Cancer working Group. The first step of this force was to produce a position paper on this topic by investigating the association of chronic kidney disease and venous thromboembolism in cancer patients, focusing particularly on the anticoagulant management of patients presenting these three comorbidities. The use of low-molecular-weight heparins, vitamin K agonists and oral direct anticoagulants in cancer patients with chronic kidney disease was reviewed.
Anemia of inflammation
Authors: Weiss Guenter , Ganz Tomas , Goodnough Lawrence T.
Published: November 2018

Anemia of inflammation (AI), also known as anemia of chronic disease (ACD), is regarded as the most frequent anemia in hospitalized and chronically ill patients. It is prevalent in patients with diseases that cause prolonged immune activation, including infection, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. More recently, the list has grown to include chronic kidney disease, congestive heart failure, chronic pulmonary diseases, and obesity. Inflammation-inducible cytokines and the master regulator of iron homeostasis, hepcidin, block intestinal iron absorption and cause iron retention in reticuloendothelial cells, resulting in iron-restricted erythropoiesis. In addition, shortened erythrocyte half-life, suppressed erythropoietin response to anemia, and inhibition of erythroid cell differentiation by inflammatory mediators further contribute to AI in a disease-specific pattern. Although the diagnosis of AI is a diagnosis of exclusion and is supported by characteristic alterations in iron homeostasis, hypoferremia, and hyperferritinemia, the diagnosis of AI patients with coexisting iron deficiency is more difficult. In addition to treatment of the disease underlying AI, the combination of iron therapy and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents can improve anemia in many patients. In the future, emerging therapeutics that antagonize hepcidin function and redistribute endogenous iron for erythropoiesis may offer additional options. However, based on experience with anemia treatment in chronic kidney disease, critical illness, and cancer, finding the appropriate indications for the specific treatment of AI will require improved understanding and a balanced consideration of the contribution of anemia to each patient’s morbidity and the impact of anemia treatment on the patient’s prognosis in a variety of disease settings.
Hemorrhage within the tympanic membrane without perforation
Authors: Kim Chang-Hee , Shin Jung Eun
Published: November 2018

Background

Hemotympanum refers to both the presence of blood in the middle ear cavity and to ecchymosis of the tympanic membrane (TM), and a systematic study of intra-TM (iTM) hemorrhage without bleeding in the middle ear cavity has not been conducted. The goals of our study were to analyze the causes of iTM hemorrhage without TM perforation or bleeding in the middle ear cavity, and to demonstrate the clinical characteristics of the disease.

Methods

This Case series study included five patients with iTM hemorrhage between August 2014 and August 2017. An iTM hemorrhage was diagnosed when otoendoscopic examination demonstrated minor bleeding behind the intact TM, a hemorrhage was observed between the TM annulus and the epidermal layer, and temporal bone computed tomography revealed thickening of the TM without soft tissue density within the tympanic cavity or temporal bone fracture. Initial symptoms, and serial findings of otoendoscopy and pure tone audiometry (PTA) were investigated.

Results

iTM hemorrhage developed due to blunt head trauma in two patients, descent barotrauma during scuba diving in two patients, and spontaneous epistaxis in one patient. Otalgia and ear fullness were the most common symptoms, but PTA showed no or minimal conductive hearing loss in all patients.

Conclusions

An iTM hemorrhage may develop after blunt head trauma, barotrauma due to scuba diving, or spontaneous epistaxis; otological symptoms included otalgia, tinnitus, and aural fullness. An iTM hemorrhage resolved spontaneously without specific treatment, usually within 1 month.
Ileal Dieulafoy Lesion: a rare case report
Authors: Jain Aleena , Karegar Manjusha , Joshi Amita , Rojekar Amey
Published: November 2018

Background

Dieulafoy lesion, also known as calibre persistent artery is a rare cause of massive GI bleeding. It’s an abnormal sub-mucosal artery protruding from a minute mucosal defect (≤3 mm). Commonest location is in proximal stomach while occurrence in small intestine, especially ileum is extremely rare.

Case presentation

A 26 year old female presented with lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Preliminary investigations failed to locate the exact source of bleed. At laparotomy, an ulcerated nodular lesion, approximately 0.8 cm in diameter was identified in distal ileum. Histology revealed it to be Dieulafoy lesion.

Conclusion

Although uncommon, ileal dieulafoy is one of the causes of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding that could result in treacherous and life-threatening gastrointestinal haemorrhage. Hence, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of active GI bleeding. The definitive diagnosis is based only on histopathology.
The prognosis of out-patient alcohol treatment among parents with childcare responsibility
Authors: Mellentin Angelina Isabella , Ellermann Annette Elkjær , Nielsen Bent , Mejldal Anna , Möller Sören , Nielsen Anette Søgaard
Published: November 2018

Background

Despite expansive knowledge on the detrimental effects of growing up with parents with alcohol use disorders (AUDs), little is known about the prognosis of alcohol treatment among parents with childcare responsibility.

Aims

This observational cohort study aimed to examine the prognosis of patients with and without childcare responsibility, in a conventional out-patient alcohol treatment clinic.

Method

A consecutive AUD sample (N = 2201), based on ICD-10 Diagnostic Criteria for Research, was assessed with the European Addiction Severity Index during the clinical routine, at treatment entry and conclusion. Data on addiction severity, treatment course and drinking outcomes were derived, and adjusted odds ratios (AORs) were calculated with logistic-regression models. Drinking outcomes were compared in an intention-to-treat analysis, including all patients in a logistic regression with inverse probability weighting.

Results

Patients with childcare responsibility (aged <18 years) had a less severe addiction profile and lower drop-out rate compared with patients without children or with children living out-of-home. They were also more likely to improve on all drinking-related outcomes, including abstinence (AOR 2.68, 95% CI 1.82–3.95), number of drinking days (AOR 2.45, 95% CI 1.50–4.03) and excessive drinking days (AOR 4.66, 95% CI 2.36–9.17); and those with children living out-of-home had better outcomes on abstinence (AOR 1.59, 95% CI 1.08–2.34) than patients without children.

Conclusions

Childcare responsibility among out-patients was associated with better treatment course and outcomes than those without or not living with their children. This knowledge can help guide clinical practice, effectuate interventions and inform social authorities.
Caseload profiling in district nursing: a systematic literature review
Authors: Harper-McDonald Bruce , Baguley Fiona
Published: November 2018

This systematic literature review aims to identify and appraise current evidence to establish if caseload profiling (CP) provides a strategy to support district nurses to evidence and manage increasingly complex caseloads. A total of 17 studies where thematically synthesised and recurrent themes were identified and summarised under the headings of: defining caseload profiling; caseload profiling in the context of caseload management; workload analysis and its relationship to caseload profiling; potential impact of caseload profiling; and potential barriers to caseload profiling. The literature review showed CP is a robust method of articulating the complexity of care and practitioners could use it to help manage their own caseloads. However, the literature is mainly founded on expert opinion and further research is needed to strengthen the validity of the evidence.
Drug adherence and symptom management in older people
Authors: Gardner Emma
Published: November 2018

There are a number factors that need to be considered when managing frail older people with multiple health problems. Inappropriate polypharmacy and poor adherence, particularly in older adults, is associated with negative health outcomes. In addition to assessing the patient's current symptoms and health status, it is therefore important to consider which medications patients are prescribed, whether they are appropriate and whether they are being taken as prescribed. This case study aims to increase awareness of poor adherence to medication in the older adult population.
Reliability of test procedures for postural reactions in people with acute stroke
Authors: Sjöholm Hanna , Hägg Staffan , Nyberg Lars , Kammerlind Ann-Sofi
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims:

Regaining and maintaining balance requires postural reactions such as righting reactions, equilibrium reactions, and protective reactions. There is a lack of uniform, standardised, and reliable testing procedures for postural reactions. The aim of the present study was to examine the intra- and interrater reliability of a newly developed postural reactions assessment for use in people with acute stroke.

Methods:

The Postural Reactions Test was developed based on the literature, on previous tests, and on input from an expert panel. A total of 10 physiotherapists assessed a total of 20 video recordings of people with acute stroke performing each postural reaction. These assessments were carried out on two occasions at least 2 weeks apart. The study thus included 400 ratings.

Findings:

For intrarater reliability, the overall proportion of agreement was 86 − 93% for the different postural reactions. For interrater reliability, the most common score for each participant and the number of physiotherapists giving that score were noted. A median of 9–10 out of 10 physiotherapists scored the same value.

Conclusions:

The results indicate that the Postural Reactions Test can be used to reliably assess function in people with acute stroke and that the test can complement the existing assessments for people with affected postural control.
Outpatient physiotherapy rehabilitation for total hip replacement: comparison of current practice with clinical evidence
Authors: Nelson Mark J , Bourke Michael G , Crossley Kay M , Russell Trevor G
Published: November 2018

Background/Aims:

Literature supports outpatient physiotherapy rehabilitation following total hip replacement. Current physiotherapy practice for this patient cohort is unknown. This study aimed to establish current physiotherapy practice for outpatient total hip replacement rehabilitation in Australia, and compare current practice with clinical evidence.

Methods:

An online self-administered questionnaire was designed to reveal current practice for physiotherapy rehabilitation following hospital discharge of total hip replacement patients. The questionnaire was distributed to 151 Australian physiotherapists involved in the care of total hip replacement patients.

Findings:

A response rate of 77% (116/151) was obtained. Current practice consists of: referral for outpatient physiotherapy, three to four sessions of physiotherapy at a frequency of one to two times a fortnight; commence within two weeks of hospital discharge and last five to six weeks. They include strengthening, education on hip precautions and exercise progression, gait retraining, stairs practice, range of motion exercises. Physiotherapy sessions are complemented by a home exercise programme.

Conclusions:

The high rate of referral for outpatient physiotherapy and provision of home exercise programmes are evidence-based. The infrequent use of resistance in strength training does not align with current evidence. There is insufficient literature regarding content, timing, frequency and duration to advise whether current practice regarding these aspects is evidence-based.
From novice to expert
Authors: Recchia Melanie
Published: November 2018

The world of aesthetics is growing at an unprecedented rate, with a reported 20 000 injectors now operating in the UK alone. With numbers growing so rapidly, it is more important than ever that we ensure adequate training and professionalism. In this article, Melanie Recchia provides a summary of the BACN's competency framework, which has been accredited by the Royal College of Nursing, and which can be used to ensure that all nurses are aware of their existing skillset and development needs
The long game: calculating the lifetime value of your clients
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: November 2018

Being able to satisy and maintain clients is key to the success of any business. Learning how to value clients will keep them coming back for more, and can work wonders for the bottom line of your clinic. Not only does this approach to business enhance client satisfaction, it could also become the best form of advertising you'll ever have
Timing is everything
Authors: Ratcliffe Jason
Published: November 2018

Each of us only has 168 hours in a week. In that time, we need to be effective in our careers, make efforts to maintain our personal lives and leave space for some ‘me’ time. In this article, Jason Ratcliffe discusses how the time at which you carry out certain tasks can influence how well you do them, and how this has implications for both you and your brand
The need for a timely diagnostic workup for patients with venous leg ulcers
Authors: Pernot Carina C.E.G. , Zwiers Ineke , ten Cate-Hoek Arina J. , Wittens Cees H.A.
Published: November 2018

Objective:

To explore the need for an extended diagnostic workup in patients with venous leg ulcers (VLUs) and to establish the prevalence of the underlying causes of VLU.

Method:

This retrospective cohort study analysed data from patients with VLU. The visual analogue scale (VAS) was used for pain assessment. The ankle-brachial index (ABI) was measured to exclude patients with arterial pathology. A duplex was performed. All patients received a wound treatment plan and ambulatory compression therapy. Continuous variables were presented as mean±standard deviation (SD) or median and interquartile range (IQR). Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis were used. When normally distributed, an independent sample t-test was used.

Results:

A total of 70 patients were recruited. Of these, 18 (25.7%) experienced a VLU once and 52 (74.3%) had a recurrent VLU. Treatment of the underlying lesions was performed in almost 30% of patients. Patients who were treated showed almost two times slower healing rates compared with those who were not treated for an underlying pathology. The mean time in patient referral exceeded two years, and patients who did not see their GP were treated by nurses who did not provide regular feedback the GP; as a result, compression therapy was not always adequate.

Conclusion:

Patients with a VLU showing no signs of healing after 2 months should be referred to a dedicated wound care centre to avoid delays.
Tourniquets in the treatment of prehospital haemorrhage
Authors: Bond Reiss
Published: November 2018

Background:

During recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, tourniquets were a useful tool in the management of non-compressible prehospital catastrophic haemorrhage. Recommendations for use within the civilian setting were then made. However, civilian research supporting this change in practice is limited.

Aims:

The aim of the research is to evaluate the utility of prehospital tourniquet application through description of the complications associated with use, as well as identification of mortality following prehospital application.

Methods:

A literature search was completed using PubMed and Embase for research studies on prehospital tourniquet use in extremity trauma. Study relevance was confirmed via their abstracts and final selection was made through reviewing the full publication. Data were extracted on mortality, complications, indication for use, effective application and application duration of tourniquet use. This was tabulated, and a descriptive analysis performed.

Results:

The research reported a mortality range of 3–14% with an associated complication rate of 2.1–32.4%. The effectiveness of prehospital application was in the 88.8–98.7% range, with tourniquet application durations of 48–103.2 minutes.

Conclusions:

The tourniquet should continue to be available to UK paramedics for the management of prehospital non-compressible catastrophic haemorrhage. Application is likely to provide a mortality benefit with limited morbidity and associated complications.
The toughest but best years of my life
Authors: Elsey Abbygail
Published: November 2018

In her last column before transitioning to practice, Abbygail Elsey reflects on the highs and lows, and on the tough and very rewarding experiences of being a student paramedic
Photobiomodulation can delay tumor progression in breast cancer bearing-mice
Authors: Silva Camila Ramos , de Souza Contatori Carolina Gouvêa , de Toledo Pereira Saulo , Ribeiro. Martha Simões
Published: November 2018

Cancer is a worldwide health problem and new therapeutic strategies are necessary. Photobiomodulation is a noninvasive and cost-effective therapy, but its use in cancer cells is still controversial. In this study, we explore the effects of PBM on breast tumor bearing-mice.
AS NECRÓPOLES ROMANAS/VISIGÓTICAS DE MIROIÇO E ALCOITÃO (CASCAIS)
Authors: Cardoso Guilherme
Published: November 2018

Dezoito sítios arqueológicos com cronologia datada do período romano / visigodo foram identificados entre 1880 e 2003 no município de Cascais. Duas das necrópoles encontradas foram escavadas em 1999 e 2001, localizando-se uma em Miroiço (Manique) e outra em Alcoitão. Na necrópole de Miroiço foram encontradas 33 sepulturas. Entre elas, havia um túmulo de incineração com uma cronologia arqueológica do Alto Império, enquanto as restantes datam de entre o Baixo Império e o período Visigótico ou, possivelmente, o período Islâmico. A necrópole de Alcoitão, escavada inicialmente por F. de Paula e Oliveira (1889) e, novamente, em 1999, na qual foram identificadas 37 sepulturas, foi utilizada desde o final do Império Romano até ao período visigodo.
VIDRO ARQUEOLÓGICO DO SÉCULO XVI NO MUSEU NACIONAL DE MACHADO DE CASTRO (COIMBRA): ABORDAGEM AO VIDRO QUINHENTISTA EM PORTUGAL
Authors: Medici Teresa
Published: November 2018

Entre os materiais arqueológicos recuperados durante as escavações no Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro, foi recolhido, em 2007, um conjunto de vidros, em uma lixeira que se encontrava selada pelos níveis das obras de reestruturação do Paço Episcopal promovidas pelo bispo D. Afonso Castelo-Branco, entre 1585 (data da sua tomada de posse) e 1592. A datação precisa do depósito arqueológico e a feliz circunstância de o seu conteúdo ter sido alvo de análise integral faz com que o estudo deste conjunto vítreo ofereça um excelente ponto de partida para uma abordagem significativa do vidro quinhentista em Portugal. A comparação com este espólio permite uma melhor compreensão de outros fragmentos vítreos, recuperados por ocasião de intervenções antigas levadas a cabo em diferentes locais da cidade, aos quais podemos, a partir de agora, tentar atribuir uma datação correcta.
Konsensus Politik pada Konflik Partai Golkar Tahun 2014-2016
Authors: Hafid Meutya Viada
Published: November 2018

Kajian ini membahas mengenai fenomena konsensus politik Partai Golongan Karya (Golkar)  pasca konflik Partai Golkar tahun 2014-2016. Konsensus Partai Golkar merupakan fenomena baru, setelah sebelumnya konflik Partai Golkar selalu memunculkan partai baru. Hasil dari kajian menujukkan bahwa  konsensus Partai Golkar terjadi pada tiga jalur, pertama melalui jalur organisasi yaitu Mahkamah Partai Golkar, kedua melalui jalur hukum, ketiga melalui jalur politik, seperti ditunjukkan pada Silaturahmi Nasional (Silatnas), Rapimnas, dan terakhir Munaslub Partai Golkar bulan Mei 2016. Munaslub menyepakati berbagai hal diantaranya,  keputusan untuk menetapkan Setya Novanto sebagai Ketua Umum Partai Golkar, dibentuknya Dewan Pembina Partai Golkar, dan perubahan posisi Partai Golkar menjadi partai pendukung pemerintahan Joko Widodo-Jusuf Kalla. Konsensus politik Partai Golkar tahun 2016 juga dilakukan melalui perantara. Perantara dalam konsensus politik Partai Golkar adalah Jusuf Kalla dan Luhut Panjaitan yang bertindak sebagai wakil pemerintah tetapi juga sebagai petinggi Partai Golkar. Pimpinan Partai Golkar yang baru juga melakukan perubahan di Fraksi Golkar DPR RI. Tidak seperti sebelumnya dimana pihak yang kalah disingkirkan, Ketua Fraksi Partai Golkar DPR RI diisi oleh Setya Novanto (yang berasal dari kubu Aburizal Bakrie) dan Sekretaris Fraksi Partai Golkar diisi oleh Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita (yang berasal dari kubu Agung Laksono). Sedangkan DPD tingkat I dan tingkat II yang terdampak konflik di Pusat, juga ditata ulang oleh pimpinan Partai Golkar yang baru. Pada setiap DPD tingkat I dan tingkat II dilakukan masyawarah untuk memilih pimpinan DPD Partai Golkar dalam rangka menyatukan dua kepengurusan di daerah. Sedangkan bagi pihak Aburizal Bakrie dan Agung Laksono, masing-masing diberikan posisi pada kepengurusan Partai Golkar. Aburizal Bakrie diberikan posisi sebagai Ketua Dewan Pertimbangan Partai Golkar yang terakhir muncul pada masa Orde Baru, sedangkan Agung Laksono diberikan posisi Ketua Dewan Pakar Partai Golkar. Kata Kunci : Partai Golkar, Konsensus Politik, Partai Politik, Indonesia.
Characterization and selection of torch ginger for cut flower
Authors: Araújo Paula Guimarães Pinheiro de , De Albuquerque Filho João Calos César , Lira Silva Simone Santos , De Castro Carlos Eduardo Ferreira , Gonçalves Charleston , Loges Vivan
Published: November 2018

Torch ginger, Etlingera elatior, is among the most cultivated tropical flower of its genus. Its great acceptability in the market led researchers to improve production characteristics and to adapt it for commercialization. This study aimed to characterize 10 genotypes of torch ginger in order to select and recommend them as cut flower. The experiment ran from Jan 2014 to Dec 2016 in Paulista, Brazil and nine agro-morphological characteristics were evaluated to build a grading system that determined their suitability for cut flower. The IAC 26 and IAC 34 genotypes were classified as poorly suitable, for they presented fresh mass exceeding 237 g. They also presented less than 19 flower stems per clump and only one month with ≥1 floral stem produced in 2015. The genotypes IAC 1, IAC 2, IAC 3, IAC 11, IAC 13 and the cultivar IAC Prumirim were classified as suitable, although they obtained intermediate scores for most of the evaluated criteria. The genotype IAC 41 and the cultivar IAC Camburi were classified as very suitable for cut flower, beginning of flowering period at 12 months, produce 33.25 and 41.20 flower stem per clump, respectively, and present seven months with production of more than one floral stem per clump in 2016, achieving maximum scores from most of the evaluated characteristics.
The Knowledge Levels of Pediatricians about the Vaccination against Pertussis
Authors: Doğan Ahmet , Dağ Hüseyin , Gedik Habip , Pişmişoğlu Kemal
Published: November 2018

Objective:
This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude levels of pediatricians in terms of the pertussis vaccine.

Materials and Methods:
A survey study was carried out to evaluate the knowledge and attitude levels of pediatricians working in Istanbul in terms of the pertussis vaccine between May 1, 2015 and July 1, 2015.

Results:
A total of 104 pediatricians who comprised of 53 male and 51 female physicians, participated in this study. It was found that 35.6% of them at low-level, 51% at middle-level and 13.5% at a high-level of knowledge. The knowledge-level scores of the pediatricians who had children were significantly higher than those of pediatricians who had not a child on pertussis vaccine. Moreover, the knowledge-level scores of the specialist doctors in terms of the pertussis vaccine were significantly higher than those of the assistant doctors. It was significant that pediatricians who had children suffering from chronic diseases had greater knowledge-level scores in terms of the pertussis vaccine than those who had children without any disease.

Conclusion:
The knowledge and awareness of physicians in terms of the pertussis vaccine should be increased with in-service trainings, as the surveyors presented an insufficient knowledge level.
BOND PERFORMANCE OF DEFORMED REBAR IN STEEL FIBER REINFORCED LIGHTWEIGHT-AGGREGATE CONCRETE AFFECTED BY MULTI-FACTORS
Authors: Zhao Mingshuang , Zhang Xiaoyan , Yan Kai , Fei Teng , Zhao Shunbo
Published: November 2018

For the innovation of building materials, a new high-performance Steel Fiber Reinforced Lightweight-Aggregate Concrete (SFRLAC) made of 100% fine and coarse expanded shales has been developed. In view of the importance of reliable bond properties between deformed rebar and this new SFRLAC, the experimental study of 39 specimens was conducted by using the modified pull-out test method with the evaluation of different slips at loading-end and free-end. In which the influencing factors were considered as the volume fraction of steel fiber, the water-cement ratio, the rebar diameter, the bond length of rebar, the strength of coarse expanded shales and the fine expanded shale replaced by manufactured sand. The complete bond stress-slip curves were measured, the bond failure modes of specimens were observed. Based on the bond mechanism of adhesion, friction and bearing action of deformed rebar in SFRLAC, the bond performance characterized by the bond strength and peak-slip, the differential of bond slip between loading-end and free-end, the bond sustainability in descending portion and the bond failure mode observed are analyzed. The recommendations are proposed for the design of SFRLAC structures related to the bond performance.
STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF THREE KINDS OF FILTER AID ON THE DEHYDRATION PERFORMANCE OF MICROCYSTIS AERUGINOSA
Authors: Yang Zong-zheng , Zhang Meng-yao , Cao Jing-guo , Liu Honglei , Han Chao-xi , Tian Xin
Published: November 2018

In recent years, algae bloom phenomenon outbreaks frequently in large-scale water bodies during summer. At present, mechanical method is used to collect cyanobacteria and reduce volume. However, the characteristics of algae, namely high viscosity, small particle size and high moisture content, lead to poor efficiency of dehydration. In order to improve the dehydration efficiency of algae and achieve the purpose of volume reduction and dehydration, the dehydration performance of Microcystis aeruginosa was studied in this paper. Three filter aid agent, including Poly Aluminium Chloride (PAC), Montmorillonite and Diatomite were added to the algae solution to improve filterability of Microcystis aeruginosa. The results showed that all of three filter aid agent have positive effect on the algae filtration rate, specific resistance, compression index and dehydration efficiency. Compared with the other two filter aid agents, the filtration rate of Diatomite is relatively faster. Meanwhile dehydration performance is better as well. When the dosage of Diatomite was 10.0g/L, the filtration rate increased from 0.108 L/h to 0.504 L/h. In addition, the compression index was reduced from 0.710 to 0.594. The specific resistance was reduced from 7.62 × 1010 s2/g to 2.35 × 108 s2 /g while the water content was decreased from 86.5% to 66.4%.
THE EFFECT OF GAMMA-RAY IRRADIATION ON MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF EARLY-AGE CEMENT MORTAR
Authors: Khmurovska Yuliia , Štemberk Petr , Sikorin Svyatoslav , Kaladkevich Yuliya , Pavalanski Eryk , Fatseyeu Viktar
Published: November 2018

This study is focused on experimental investigation of the effect of gamma-ray irradiation on early-age cement mortar properties. Several working hypotheses were formulated based on the current research review. The results of the performed experiment in terms of the relative weight and the relative length change are described in detail in this study. Two observations could be made from comparison of the working hypotheses with the obtained experimental results. Firstly, the positive effect of gamma-ray irradiation in terms of the relative weight change was observed within the first 300 hours or within the equivalent absorbed irradiation dose of 450 kGy. Secondly, the shrinkage due to gamma-ray irradiation was smaller for the unsealed samples due to presence of carbon dioxide in the air, which is needed for the carbonation reaction. It is believed that the obtained experimental data themselves provide a platform for validation of related numerical models.
STUDY ON A NEW DESIGN OF GROUTING PUMP FOR MANAGING WATER INRUSH IN KARST TUNNELS
Authors: Shucai Li , Mengtian Li , Xiao Zhang , Qingsong Zhang
Published: November 2018

The low flow rate and efficiency of existing grouting pumps such as piston pumps and diaphragm pumps result in difficulty in managing sudden water and slurry discharges. In this study, a new design for grouting pumps is proposed to improve the grouting flow rate and efficiency. A grouting model test scheme to manage the water inrush of a tubular karst is designed. The power consumption of this system is equivalent to that of a diaphragm grouting pump. Improved performance was also observed for the newly designed rotary piston pump in grouting plugging tests. The retention of slurry and changes in moving water flow are observed and recorded to examine the grouting effects of the pumps. In addition, the pressure and flow rate changes of the grouting slurry are used to gauge the performance parameters of the pumps. A rotary piston pump and a traditional piston pump were tested in single- and separate-hole grouting experiments in tunnel engineering sites. In the grouting model test, which manages the water inrush of a tubular karst, the newly designed rotary piston pump had a distinct advantage in terms of the slurry retention thickness and fracture sealing effect. In particular, the efficiency of the rotary piston pump increased by a factor of 10 over the diaphragm grouting pump. During the experiments in the engineering site, the grouting flow rate of the rotary piston pump showed significant increase when compared to the traditional piston pump. The construction time was halved. The proposed rotary piston grouting pump has shown obvious advantages over existing grouting pumps.
PARALOID B72 NANODISPERSION PREPARATION TECHNOLOGY AND ITS POSSIBILITIES FOR USE IN THE MONUMENT CARE
Authors: Škoda David , Pučalíková Renata , Kuřitka Ivo , Kroftová Klára
Published: November 2018

The paper summarizes the results of laboratory research on acrylate polymer Paraloid B72, the use of which is widespread in the consolidation and protection of historical materials. The aim of laboratory research was primarily to analyse the possibilities of modifying particle sizes, given that this material characteristic plays an important role in the penetration process and hence the effectiveness of the consolidator. The contribution shows and compares the basic properties of the tested dispersions of Paraloid B72. The tested polymer system has a smaller particle size and it is possible to assume the possibility of proper use in monument care.
RELIABILITY EVALUATION IN CONSTRUCTION QUALITY BASED ON COMPLEX VAGUE SOFT EXPERT SET METHOD
Authors: Bai Xiaoping , Zhao Hongyue
Published: November 2018

The control of the construction quality is very important in the construction industry. In this paper, the fuzzy reliability and construction quality are linked together to establish a specific quantitative evaluation model, which not only can help to make up for the lack of the traditional reliability qualitative evaluation methods, but also can avoid the inaccuracy of fuzzy quantitative evaluation of construction quality to a certain extent. This paper firstly selects some influencing factors of construction quality, and then makes use of complex vague soft expert set theory to study the construction quality and reliability. By the operational relationship and quantitative evaluation index, the membership functions of each subset are obtained, and different evaluation intervals are divided, it is helpful to draw the quantitative evaluation results of quality within a reasonable range and improve the accuracy of the quality and reliability. The presented hybrid method and detailed steps can provide some references for the reliability evaluation of construction quality.
Cambios de la Unión Europea en su política de comercio
Authors: Nagel Daniel
Published: November 2018

Mientras que los funcionarios de la UE promocionaron, con apoyo de la OMT, al multilateralismo como el santo remedio para lograr la liberalización del comercio hasta hace veinte años, el comunicado “Europa global: compitiendo en el mundo” de 2006 dio lugar a un cambio en la política comercial. El comunicado reconoce especialmente que los acuerdos de comercio preferenciales (ACP) permiten avanzar más y con mayor rapidez hacia la apertura y la integración profunda. Este cambio radical y repentino terminó de consolidarse durante el lanzamiento de “Comercio para todos”, cuyos objetivos principales eran adaptarse al aumento de las cadenas de valor mundiales y responder a las críticas feroces acerca de la falta de transparencia de la Comisión en el manejo de la política comercial. Al abordar las cláusulas de las políticas OMT-X y OMT+ en conjunto con la tradicional eliminación de tarifas, los ACP de Europa se proponen lograr una apertura recíproca y efectiva motivada por altos niveles de ambición. En este contexto, un objetivo crucial es mejorar el acceso a grandes mercados internacionales y a regiones de rápido crecimiento con el fin de potenciar la competitividad de las empresas europeas. Los emprendimientos con aliados norteamericanos y con iniciativas en la pujante región Asia-Pacífico son ejemplos de este objetivo. Además del fortalecimiento de los vínculos con África, Turquía, Rusia, América Latina y el Caribe, se puede observar que la Comisión (orientada principalmente por criterios económicos) también tiene en cuenta la disposición y las condiciones políticas generales de sus socios. Frente a la posibilidad de fracaso inminente de la Ronda de Doha, Bruselas intenta instalar, como medida preventiva, su propia red segura de ACP, preparándose para el colapso potencial del sistema comercial multilateral en general. Por último, este trabajo demuestra que el cambio en la política comercial de la UE significa un paso fundamental hacia el lanzamiento de las negociaciones para un acuerdo de comercio e inversión bilateral entre Washington y Bruselas, lo cual sería el plato fuerte de la red de acuerdos de comercio preferenciales de la UE del siglo XXI.
Class level software fault prediction using step wise linear regression
Authors: Patil Sumangali , Nagaraja Rao A. , Shoba Bindu C.
Published: November 2018

Programming measurements was utilized for foreseeing issue in modules of programming ventures. Convenient forecast of flaws enhances programming quality and subsequently its dependability. In this paper, a framework towards subspace grouping of large data set was pro-posed at class level to minimize the error. We composed an iterative calculation for grouping of high dimensional datasets for improvement of a target work. At that point the bunched data sets were examined utilizing Step-Wise Linear Regression to investigate the relationship among a structure variable and the autonomous factors in order to anticipate of damaged and non-faulty classes. To evaluate the supportive-ness of the model, we drove a practical learning on the Attitude Survey Data. The proposed strategy specifically managed blunder variables and consequently gave precise fault prediction least standard error (0.003) when contrasted with the current technique (4.687). Root mean square error which measures the distinction between the assessed error and the real error was (0.8) in the proposed technique. The results demonstrated that the forecast models based on subspace clustering were essentially predominant to the current techniques.
Study and evaluation the air pollution around the thermal power plant of Zebadiah city, Wassit province, Iraq
Authors: Kamal Mahmood Abdulkhaleq , Abdulkhaleq Kamal Ali
Published: November 2018

This study focused on gaseous pollution caused by exhaust gas from AL-Zubaydiah thermal power plant. Study gases included sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxide (NO), carbon oxide (CO) and hydrocarbon (HC). The concentration of gas measurement is conducted during six months from January until June 2017. Nova 600 series portable devise and G450 confined space gas detector was used for measuring gas concentration, which emitted from the chimney of the thermal power station with an interval of 100m and into the path of smoke for a distance of 1400 m. The prevailing wind direction and temperature were taken into consideration during the study and their impact on the gas distribution. Four readings have been taken in each station during each month for all gases under study. The results showed that less gas concentrations were near the power station and then getting more gas concentration away from the station and higher concentrations are obtained at a distance of 900 m from the power station at ground level. Results indicated that sulfur dioxide concentrations recorded were higher than allowed in the Iraqi and American standards in most locations around the station. The highest concentration recorded at 900 m from the power station with value 597.3968 μg/m3, which is higher than the limitation of Iraqi and international specifications (150 μg/m3). This high concentration of SO2 is due to the crude oil from the Ahdab field with high rates of Sulphur that used as fuel in the generation process. These high concentrations of sulfur dioxide cause problems on the growth of plants and human health and viability of the soil in the coming years. Nitrogen oxide gas concentrations also were high and outside the upper limits allowed and were worth 131.38 μg/m3. The rest of the gas concentration (CO and HC) were acceptable and within the Iraqi standard. To preserve the environment in the region and within the limits of the allowed values globally requires a search for another source of fuel with a low percentage of sulfur and using modern technology for burning to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides.
Parametric study of sliding mode fracture in structural plain cement concrete for various sizes of beams
Authors: T Bhavanichowdary , Padmaja S. , Saritha M. , Vinod Kumar M.
Published: November 2018

Fracture mechanics a part of solid mechanics deals with the crack initiation and propagation under certain loading conditions, as we know at ultimate load, the maximum shear stress is relatively larger than the shear strength in existence of compressive stress, which eventually results in shear failure. Under this criteria, failure is mode II which we can state that as the sliding mode. In this current research paper, an experimental investigation is carried out to study the behavior of plain cement concrete beams subjected to four point loading. Three different sizes of beams with Doubly Centered Notch (DCN) are used to examine the consequence of stress intensity factor and fracture energy with diversified notch depth ratios with a constant position of the notch from a center of the beam.
A Fuzzy Skill Predictor for Early Childhood Educators
Authors: Adah Agana Moses , Wario Ruth
Published: November 2018

This study presents a model of a two-input single output (TISO) Fuzzy Skill Predictor based on Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences to assist early childhood educators in discovering latent skills in children of early school age as to tailor them towards professional skill development in their future lives. The skill prediction system was developed in two phases beginning with the generation of weighted fuzzy rules and then followed by the development of a fuzzy rule-based decision support system. The Mamdani Fuzzy inference model in MATLAB was used in implementing the system using weighted attributes of intelligence and ability to determine skills. The system was tested with hypothetical data based on Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligence and was found useful for predicting skills based on the parameters used. The system was validated using early school academic records of 7 randomly sampled undergraduates studying various courses in the university. Though limited entries were used to test the system, the model is robust and can be easily modified to accommodate more entries and rules to predict as many skills as possible.
Device for Current Test Pulse Development Through a Diode in a Direct Direction
Authors: Bespalov Nikolay , Goryachkin Yury
Published: November 2018

The article is devoted to the development of a device that allows to generate control current pulses to determine the current-voltage characteristic of diodes in the forward direction. To implement the device, we use NI Digital Electronics FPGA Board, which includes FPGA XC3S500E Xilinx Spartan-3E FPGA and the Linear Technology LTC2624 chip, containing four 12-bit DACs. We consider the creation of a software module via VHDL language that generates 12-bit digital code to create rectangular voltage control pulses with a successively increasing amplitude and transmitted via SPI interface as the part of 32-bit data transfer protocol, using Xilinx WebPACK ISE software.
Calculation of Resonant Radiation Power of a Direct Sodium Lamp With Low Pressure
Authors: V.K Sveshnikov , A.F Bazarkin , A.V Kurenschikov
Published: November 2018

They consider the calculation technique for the resonance radiation power of a direct low-pressure sodium lamp with a sickle-shaped discharge tube cross-section. The calculation of the sodium discharge radiation power is difficult in such a tube, as compared with the calculation in a cylindrical shape tube. The dependence of the relative output of sodium discharge resonant radiation occurring in equivalent discharge tubes in the form of a parallelepiped and a cylinder is based on the involvement of the theory by M. Cayless. The obtained results were used to determine the power of DNaO-85M lamp resonant radiation. They presented the scheme of the device to study the influence of the tube geometry on sodium discharge power. It is shown that the power of the resonance radiation generated by an equivalent discharge will be the greater, the larger the cross section of the discharge tube. The discrepancy between the calculated and the experimental data for resonant radiation power determination in a crescent-shaped tube is less than 4%.