bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proposição de ações para implementação da Política de Atenção à Saúde e Segurança do servidor público federal: estudo de caso na Universidade Federal Fluminense
Authors: Pôssas Nathalia São Paio D’Amato , Meirino Marcelo Jasmim , Pacheco Márcia Vieira
Published: October 2019

As ações em saúde do servidor público caracterizavam-se por iniciativas isoladas e assistenciais, dependentes da visão de cada órgão. A partir de 2007, se estabeleceu o compromisso de construir e implantar uma Política de Atenção à Saúde (PASS) do servidor público federal. O objetivo deste estudo foi propor ações para contribuir na implementação da política na Universidade Federal Fluminense. Foram realizadas entrevistas na Reitoria e no campus do Gragoatá, baseadas em dois roteiros: um destinado aos servidores, com o intuito de analisar o conhecimento e participação em relação às iniciativas da PASS; e outro destinado aos gestores diretamente envolvidos com a implementação da política, a fim de conhecer os desafios para implementação. Após a análise dos dados, como propostas para auxiliar a implementação da política, sugere-se um maior comprometimento do nível de gestão central com as ações da PASS; mobilização dos agentes implementadores da política a fim de propor uma agenda anual; capacitação e educação continuada das equipes interdisciplinares e implantação das Comissões Internas de Saúde do Servidor Público, dentre outras ações apresentadas no artigo.
The Effect of Interpersonal Communication, Self Engagement and Organizational Commitment toward The Employee Performance
Authors: Ghofar Abdul , Akbar Ma'ruf , Luddin Muchlis
Published: October 2019

The objective of this reseach was to understand comprehensively the effect of Interpersonal Communication, Self-Engagement and Organizational Commitment toward the Employee Performance. It was a quantitative research with survey method in the communication and information ministery in Jakarta 2016.

            The data were colected through observation. The data analysis and interpretasion indicates that (1) the effect Interpersonal Communication toward the Employee Performance; (2) the effect Self-Engagement toward the Employee Performance; (3) the effect Organizational Commitment toward the Employee Performance; (4) the effect Interpersonal Communication toward the Employee Organizational Commitment; (5) the effect Self-Engagement toward the Employee Organizational Commitment; (5) the effect Interpersonal Communication toward the Employee Self-Engagement.

            The findings lead to the recomendation to practice effectively Employee Performance, Organizational Commitment and Self-Engagement, with Interpersonal Communication. Interpersonal Communication practice by (1) communication opens, (2) empaty, (3) supporting, (4) positif thingking and (5) equality.
Analytical Approach for Multi-Phase Production Data Analysis in Boundary-Dominated Flow Using Three-Phase Fluid Properties
Authors: Luo Le , Cheng Shiqing , Lee John
Published: October 2019

This paper presents a simple yet rigorous model and provides a methodology to analyze production data from wells exhibiting three-phase flow during the boundary-dominated flow regime. Our model is particularly applicable to analyze production data from volatile oil reservoirs, and should replace the less accurate single-phase models commonly used. The methodology will be useful in rate transient analysis and production forecasting for horizontal wells with multiple fractures in shales. Our analytical model for efficiently handling multi-phase flow is an adaptation of existing single-phase models. We introduce new three-phase parameters, notably fluids properties. We also define three-phase material balance pseudotime and three-phase pseudopressure to linearize governing flow equations. This linearization makes our model applicable to wells with variable rates and flowing pressures. We optimized the saturation-pressure path and further suggested an appropriate method to calculate three-phase pseudopressures. We validated the solutions through comparisons with compositional simulation using commercial software; the excellent agreement demonstrated the accuracy and utility of the analytical solution. We concluded that, during the boundary-dominated flow regime, the saturation-pressure relation given by steady-state path and tank-type model for volatile oil reservoirs leads to satisfactory results. We also confirmed that our definitions of three-phase fluid properties are well suited for ultra-low permeability volatile oil reservoirs. The computation time of our model is greatly reduced compared to a numerical approach, and thus the methodology should be attractive to the industry. Our model is efficient and practical to be applied for production data analysis in ultra-low permeability volatile reservoirs with non-negligible water production during the boundary-dominated flow regime. This study extends existing analytical model methodology for volatile oil reservoirs and is relatively easy for reservoir engineers to understand.
A Minimal Cost Approach to Reduce the Uncertainty of Oil Rim and Fault Transmissibility in the Presence of Scarce Data for Two Adjacent Blocks in Haushi Reservoirs, Sultanate of Oman
Authors: AL Bulushi Samiya , Cobanoglu Mustafa , Calvert Stephen , Helmy Mohammed , AL Kharusi Dawood , AL Housni Mahmood , AL Shabibi Alya , Lefeber Tom
Published: October 2019

The Barik Haushi field is composed of two reservoirs at a depth of two km: Lower Gharif (LG) & Al-Khalata (AK). The field is divided into two areas based on shareholder ownership: the Main East Block is booked as non-associated gas and is fully owned by the Government of Oman; the West Block contains oil and associated gas and is jointly owned by the Government of Oman and private shareholders. The field was discovered in 1971 with first production from the West Block in 1986 via a well that was closed in after nine years due to well integrity failure. Production restarted in the Main East Block in 2005 via four vertical wells, two in each reservoir. The two vertical wells in AK soon watered out and were shut off and re-perforated in LG. Current production is 0.2 MMm3/d and 23 m3/d of condensates from the LG.

The latest multi-disciplinary study identified the possible presence of an oil rim in the Main East Block and a non-sealing fault between the two blocks. These alternative realizations impact resource reclassification and further development of the field. The available field data is inconclusive and acquiring additional new data in the short term is a challenge. The aim of this specific study is to develop the field in an optimum way, testing subsurface uncertainties through 3D dynamic reservoir simulation modeling. Firstly, a non-sealing fault scenario was considered. Several fault transmissibility sensitivities were performed to test intra-block cross-flow and model stability. Results show that dynamic equilibrium and stability could only be achieved by either keeping the same oil-gas contact with a non-sealing fault, or applying two different oil-gas contacts with a sealing fault. These two scenarios were further examined during a history matching exercise of production and pressure data. A fair history match could only be obtained for the fault-seal scenario. Secondly, the presence of an oil rim scenario in the Main East region was investigated in a similar manner. Three different scenarios were tested: a mobile oil case, a relatively low mobile oil case, and a case without an oil rim. Only the non-oil rim scenario was supported by a decent history match. This paper highlights how challenges that emerged because of data scarcity were tackled via a minimal cost approach through the use of 3D dynamic reservoir simulation modeling.
Do the Right Thing at Right Time KOC Way of Integrating Process Safety into Process Related Facility Projects
Authors: Shaikh Mazharuddin , Al-Mutairi Majed , Al-Wehaib Anwar , Al-Enezi Sami
Published: October 2019

Several major incidents that involved newly commissioned projects with a range of inherent weaknesses bear testimony to the need for building process safety systematically into future engineering projects. The proper integration of hazard and risk studies into a project is key to achieving full potential for safety. One of the main objectives of successfully integrating process safety into a project is to reduce this residual safety risk. This paper describes the best practice developed by Kuwait Oil Company for integrating process safety activities, especially performing PHA studies through out the life cycle of process related facility projects. This paper outlines types of projects at KOC, phases of projects, brief on project requirement at each phase, details on PHA, PHSER and PSSR reviews at each stage of process to adequately assess & manage the risk. The failure to integrate all of these means that processes and project may not achieve their full safe and efficient performance.
An Artificial Lift Optimization Tool Developed for the Greater Burgan Field
Authors: Cordero Pablo , Desai Sameer
Published: October 2019

An Artificial Lift Optimization Tool has been developed in house by the Field Development team of South and East Kuwait Group of Kuwait Oil Company. The tool evaluates pump performance and identifies optimization opportunities quickly providing options to increase production and enhance pump life. Additionally, the tool identifies groups of wells with atypical conditions that will make them candidates for remedial actions such as well intervention work for pump upsize and increase well deliverability.

The Artificial Lift Optimization tool is in the form of an Excel based workbook created with advance functions and macros using well-known oilfield equations for well performance analysis under various conditions. The tool is automated and compares measured information with design parameters through which it highlights two important pump operating conditions; 1) Wells with pumps performing out of the desired design parameters, and 2) Wells with opportunities to increase oil production based on well-reservoir potential. The first condition allows engineers to improve pump's runlife and associated costs, while the second provides options to maximize oil production. The AL Optimization Tool creates quick and easy to review well lists based on these two conditions for further analysis, reducing considerable time and efforts required otherwise for a similar exercise done conventionally. Additionally, a user-friendly interface allows the user review individually any selected well and identify in a glance pump performance and optimization opportunity.

The tool is successfully being used since 2017 by the Field Development South and East Kuwait team for routine integrated well-by-well review and AL Optimization meetings with other stakeholder teams. Considerable incremental oil production has been added to the asset with quick gains identified from the AL Optimization Tool. The ESP pump life has been greatly benefited after troubleshooting many pumps to operate in the design operating range.

The Artificial Lift Optimization Tool is a customized automated tool developed for managing the performance of Artificial Lifts wells installed in the Greater Burgan field of Kuwait. It gathers relevant production and reservoir related information from multiple data repositories to evaluate pump and well performance enabling quick optimization opportunities. Over 1000 wells operating with AL in Burgan field can be grouped quickly in different categories based on pump operating conditions for detailed analysis selectively by respective stakeholder. The tool has provided to FD team considerable ease in performing the AL optimization task efficiently and quickly. Development efforts for further automation and escalation to other areas of KOC are ongoing.
Wells Life Extension Through a Risk-Based Well Ageing Study
Authors: D'Alesio Paolo , Caramanico Livio , Angelucci Elisa , Scalzitti Luigi
Published: October 2019

The ever more challenging environments in which new wells are to be drilled, the uncertainties of the current market, and the availability of effective secondary and tertiary enhanced recovery (EOR) technologies, make the extension of existing wells' life more advisable than drilling new wells.

To properly and proactively manage the degradation of Well Barrier Elements (WBEs) over time, thus ensuring the extension of wells life, a specific methodology and software have been developed.

The concept of "Wells Life Extension" not only requires to get an adequate knowledge of the current wells integrity status, but also to predict future critical WBE(s) in order to put in place ad-hoc preventive measures.

The methodology described in this paper includes three main phases: Well Integrity Assessment, which evaluates today's well integrity status through a risk-based approach.Estimation of Wells Ageing, which estimates the residual well life based on the understanding of WBEs ageing mechanisms.Definition of Intervention Plan Options, in which wells are classified on the basis of specific parameters, and then prioritized for future interventions through a cost-benefit analysis.

The implementation of such methodology has allowed Customers to find out the most appropriate actions to be carried out on their ageing wells, with the objective of keeping production performances and safely operating the wells in line with the planned targets. Moreover, it has enabled to properly plan such actions over time, on the basis of the risk levels associated to the failure modes of each WBE, thus preventing and mitigating the need of potentially expensive interventions and protracted downtimes.

Furthermore, emergency situations that would even increase costs and/or failures impacts, have been prevented, mitigated, and proper monitoring and maintenance programs have been executed in order to manage risks over time.

In summary, the overall benefit of the presented methodology and software consists in anticipating well integrity issues and extending wells life through a proactive and cost-effective approach, that can enhance assets reliability, improve safety levels and minimize both downtimes and costs associated to WBEs failures.
Refineries of the Future – The Refinery as an ENERGY HUB
Authors: Jansen Elisabeth
Published: October 2019

This paper presents the study of the European Petroleum Refiners Association into various pathways to produce a low-carbon liquid fuel to reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity in European transport.

The European Union has set climate goals targeting 80-95 % GHG emission reductions by 2050. There is a strong focus on reducing CO2 emissions from transport fuels. Refining industry can effectively contribute by gradually transitioning to e.g. new feedstock's hence reducing product-related CO2 emissions (in combination with more efficient vehicles); integration with chemicals; further increasing CO2 efficiency in refineries and Green Hydrogen. The Concawe study explores these so-called Low-Carbon Pathways with the potential to reduce the CO2 emissions associated with the production and the use refined oil products [Concawe, 2018].

Options for CO2 emission reduction in refining are e.g. energy efficiency, low carbon electricity and carbon-capture & storage (CCS) and carbon-capture & usage (CCU). CO2 emissions savings up to 70 % towards 2050 could be possible. Other pathways explored for future refining are e.g. the use of green hydrogen and the impact of fuel quality and bio-feedstock into the refinery. The use of advanced biofuels will play a significant role in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in transport.

This paper being a summary of the FuelsEurope Vision 2050 [FuelsEurope, 2018] presents the latest results of the ongoing study by Concawe showing possible pathways and CO2 reduction potential for EU refining, site-specific factors will determine individual refineries preferred routes to contribute. The principles are generally applicable to refineries in other parts of the world.
Ureaplasma urealyticum and chlamydia trachomatis among general married migrants in three cities of China: a workplace-based study
Authors: Li Yuyan , Zhou Ying , Xu Shuangfei , Zhang Junxian , Jiang Nan , Zhao Rui , Li Yiran , Wu Junqing
Published: October 2019

Background Genital tract infections with ureaplasma urealyticum (UU) and chlamydia trachomatis (CT) are the most frequent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The aim of this study is to understand the prevalence of UU and CT among general internal married migrants and to explore some possible influencing factors, so as to provide some evidences for STIs prevention in China. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in three cities of China from March 2016 to February 2017. A total of 3180 internal-married migrants were included. The structured questionnaire survey, gynecological or andrology examination and laboratory detection were conducted by the trained research fellow s. The prevalence of UU and CT was laboratory-confirmed in this study. Results The prevalence of laboratory-confirmed UU and CT were 45.41%, 5.75%, respectively. The co-infection rate was 4.09%. The rates of UU and CT of Shanghai participants (54.01%, 7.35%) were the highest, and the lowest were that of Yinchuan (37.74%, 4.52%). In Urumqi, the prevalence of UU and CT were 44.77%, 5.42%, respectively, but it has the highest co-infection rate. The multiple stepwise logistic regressions found that the prevalence of UU among three cities were different, and the male’s UU infection was lower than that of women (OR=0.71, 95%CI:0.61-0.83), and the 20-34 age group participants had lower UU and CT risk, compared with that of 45-49 age group. Moreover, the white-collar workers had lower risk of UU infection (OR=0.64, 95%CI: 0.49-0.83), compared with laborer, and using condom could reduce the UU infection (OR=0.74, 95%CI: 0.63-0.87). Compared with urban migrants, the rural participants had higher risk of CT infection (OR=1.68, 95%CI: 1.12-2.52), and sex behavior during menstruation could increase the prevalence of CT (OR=1.49, 95%CI: 1.05-2.11). Conclusion The prevalence of UU and CT were high and the co-infection was also serious among general internal married migrants. More health promotion measures about UU and CT should be taken to help general migrants of China, especially women and those with lower social-economic status (laborers from rural area), risky sexual behaviors such as having sex during menstruation should be warned of and condom-use should be promoted.
Effects of polishing vs. glazing on dental ceramic wear: A comparative in vitro study
Authors: Abujalala Mohammed , Özden A.Nehir
Published: October 2019

Background: This study analyzed the wear behavior caused by steatite antagonists to four dental ceramic materials, comparing this between two surface treatments: polishing and glazing. Methods: Thirty flat samples (10 × 8 × 2 mm) were prepared from each of four ceramics: IPS e.max CAD (IPS), GC Initial LiSi Press (LP), Vita Enamic (VE), and monolithic zirconia (MZ). Subgroups of samples were finished by polishing or glazing or neither (as controls). The samples were subjected to computer-controlled chewing simulation (240,000 cycles of 49 N at 1.6 Hz, with thermocycling at 5/55°C), with steatite balls as antagonists. The samples and antagonists were visualized before and after the test with a laser abrasion measurement system, a CAD/CAM scanner, and electron microscopy scanning, and the volumes lost from the tested samples and antagonists were analyzed.Results: For the MZ samples, the polished samples showed significantly less volume loss than the glazed samples (0.0200 mm3 vs. 0.0305 mm3; p = 0.0001), whereas there was significantly greater antagonist volume loss (0.0365 mm3 vs. 0.0240 mm3; p = 0.011). There were no significant differences between the subgroups for IPS, VE, and LP, although antagonist volume losses were non-significantly greater with the glazed samples than with the polished samples. Conclusions: Polishing MZ had adverse effects on the corresponding antagonist wear. Glazed MZ showed the lowest antagonist wear.
Effect of service integration on cervical cancer screening and family planning uptake: A uncontrolled before and after facility study in Mukono District, Uganda.
Authors: Maureen Katusiime , Ssennyonjo Aloysius , Kiwanuka Suzanne N
Published: October 2019

Background Cervical cancer (CACX) is the third most common cancer among women globally yet it is largely preventable. Uganda has one of the highest age standardized CACX incidence rates in the world yet it has a low screening rate ranging from 4.8 to 19% compared to the national target of 80%. Women using hormonal contraceptives over a long time are among the most at risk of CACX yet there is limited information about their screening status. In 2014, an integrated FP-CACX screening service model was implemented in Mukono district in Uganda to reduce this unmet need for both services. This study assessed whether an integrated model resulted into increased utilization of both services at health facilities in Mukono district.Methods Integration was defined as the uptake of both FP and CACX screening services during the same visit. Monthly quantitative data on service utilization was collected retrospectively from records at 7 health facilities, 36 months before and 27 months after the integration intervention. The period 2011 to 2013 defined years before while 2014 to 2016 were years after integration. Descriptive analyses and tests of significance were carried out and results were expressed in percentages, means and mean differences.Results Among 48595 women desiring FP or CACX screening in the 7 facilities for the period 2011 to 2016, 41374 (85%) opted to solely receive an FP service. CACX screening services were received solely by 937 (2%) women while 6284 (13%) received integrated services. There were significant increases in the services received solely and as a combination. Integrated services increased by 15 mean clients per month (p<0.001) from a mean number of 5 (SD±14.5) to 20 (SD±26.9) clients per month in 2016 after integration.Conclusion Integrating CACX screening with FP service provision led to significant increases in the services received solely and as a combination after integration. More research on approaches including how and when to roll out integration in different settings is needed to inform future expansion efforts for better uptake of integrated services.
Women’s perception about accessibility of safe abortion care services at selected public institutions in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Authors: Sendo Endalew Gemechu , Dinegde Negalign Getahun , Aga Fekadu , Negassa Debela Gela , Deressa Jembere Tesfaye
Published: October 2019

Background Ethiopia ratified its abortion law in 2005, primarily to reduce the incidence of unsafe abortion and the availability of safe abortion services has increased. However, service availability has not led to a significant reduction in unsafe abortion.Objective The aim of this study was to assess women’s perception about accessibility of safe abortion care services at selected public institutions in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.Method Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 432 women of reproductive age who work in non-health related public institutions. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. Data were entered into Epi-data and cleaned and exported to SPSS version 24.0 for data analysis. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, independent-sample t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and linear regression. Statistical significance was set at 5%. Multi-categorical independent variables were dummy coded before entering into the models. Results In this study, more than half (60.2%) of the participants reported that they had pregnancy at least once. Seventy eight respondents (18.1%) had history of previous miscarriage, among these the greater number (74.4%) has happened due to spontaneous abortion. Among the respondents studied, 283 (65.5%) of them have heard of abortion care and media was the major source of information. Closely half of (46.2%) the females who had miscarriage history were treated at governmental health institutions; followed by private clinics (35.9%) and traditional methods (6.4%). Whereas, 11.5% of them didn’t get any abortion care service. There was significant difference in mean scores of participants faced post abortion complications and treated at traditional healer, and particularly the respondents attended traditional healer makes the strongest unique contribution to explaining the perception score.Conclusion Over the past two decades, the safe abortion services has advanced and expanded increasingly in Ethiopia. However, this study indicated that significant number of women still unheard about accessibility of the safe abortion care and attending the traditional and risky procedure of care. There is an urgent need for the government and other stakeholders to provide more awareness on the accessibility and advantage of safe abortion services in the community.
Characteristics of high-risk human papillomavirus infection in women with abnormal cervical cytology: a population-based study in Shanxi Province, China
Authors: Song Li , Lyu Yuanjing , Ding Ling , Li Xiaoxue , Gao Wen , Wang Ming , Hao Min , Wang Zhilian , Wang Jintao
Published: October 2019

Background: High-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection is widely known as the major cause of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cervical cancer and it’s characteristics vary greatly in different population. Women with abnormal cervical cytology could increase the risk of cervical cancer, however, HR-HPV infection characteristics in women with abnormal cervical cytology remains unclear. Methods: This study was based on baseline survey of the CIN Cohort established in Shanxi Province, China. A total number of 2300 women with cervical abnormalities were enrolled in this study. All participants gave informed consent and agreed to HPV and thinprepcytologic test (TCT). Each individual completed a questionnaire about characteristics related to HPV infection. Results: The overall prevalence of HR-HPV in 2300 women was 32.0%, and the proportion of single and multiple HR-HPV infections were 70.2% and 29.8% in HR-HPV infection women, respectively. The top five HR-HPV genotypes were ranked as HPV16, HPV58, HPV52, HPV53 and HPV51. The prevalence of HR-HPV in atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US), low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion and above(HSIL+) were 30.8%, 36.5% and 54.9%, respectively, showing an increasing trend with the severity of cervical cytology ( χ 2 trend =13.952; p <0.001). The women aged 35~45 years, with lower education level, less frequency of bathing, multiple gravidity, multiple parity, history of gynecological diseases and premenopausal women were prone to HR-HPV infection. Conclusions: We defined the characteristics related to HR-HPV infection in abnormal cervical cytology women, and provided an insight for the development and deeply research of HPV vaccine.
DTIRF: Predicting Drug-Target Interactions Based on Improved Rotation Forest from Drug Molecular Structure and Protein Sequence
Authors: Wang Lei , You Zhu-Hong , Li Li-Ping , Yan Xin , Zhang Wei , Wang Hai-Feng
Published: October 2019

Background: The identification and prediction of Drug-Target Interaction (DTI) is the basis for screening drug candidates, which plays a vital role in the development of innovative drugs. However, due to the time-consuming and high cost constraints of biological experimental methods, traditional drug target identification technologies are often difficult to develop on a large scale. Therefore, in silico methods are urgently needed to predict drug-target interactions in a genome-wide manner. Results: In this article, we design a new in silico approach, named DTIRF, to predict the DTI combine feature weighted Rotation Forest (FwRF) classifier with protein amino acids information. More specifically, we first use Position-Specific Score Matrix (PSSM) to numerically convert protein sequences and utilize Pseudo Position-Specific Score Matrix (PsePSSM) to extract their features. Then a unified digital descriptor is formed by combining molecular fingerprints representing drug information. Finally, the feature weighted rotation forest is applied to implement on Enzyme, Ion Channel, GPCR, and Nuclear Receptor data sets. The results of the five-fold cross-validation experiment show that the prediction accuracy of this approach reaches 91.68%, 88.11%, 84.72% and 78.33% on four benchmark data sets, respectively. To further validate the performance of the DTIRF, we compare it with other excellent methods and Support Vector Machine (SVM) model. In addition, 7 of the 10 highest predictive scores in predicting novel DTIs were validated by relevant databases. Conclusions: The experimental results of cross-validation indicated that DTIRF is feasible in predicting the relationship among drugs and target, and can provide help for the discovery of new candidate drugs.
In maintenance hemodialysis patients, there were “U-shaped” relationships between serum albumin level and mortality or hospitalization, negative linear relationship between serum albumin level and hospitalization for infection.
Authors: Jia Xiaoyan , Chen Ping , Wang Xue , Kong Xianglei , Chen Juan , Liu Yipeng , Zhao Na , Zhang Ying , Wei Yong , Wang Li , Wang Zunsong , Xu Dongmei
Published: October 2019

Background: Few studies are available on the non-linear association between serum albumin (S-Alb) level and prognosis in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Methods: All stable MHD patients treated in our center from 2007 to 2011 were enrolled into this study. Demographics, laboratory data, hospitalization and mortality were collected; Cox regressive models were fitted to investigate predicting outcomes, restricted cubic splines (RCS) were allowing for non-linear association between S-Alb and prognosis. Results: S-Alb was independent protective factor for mortality, all-cause hospitalization, hospitalization for cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease and hospitalization for infection. The relationships between S-Alb and mortality, all-cause hospitalization, hospitalization for cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease were U-shaped; relationships between S-Alb and hospitalization for infection were negative linear relationships both in univariable Cox regression models and in multivariable Cox regression. Conclusions: In MHD population, there were “U-shaped” relationships between serum albumin level and mortality or hospitalization; the potential risks associated with excessive S-Alb should been taken into consideration. There was negative linear relationship between S-Alb and hospitalization for infection, S-Alb may be even more important in preventing infection in MHD population.
Baicalein neutralizes hypercholesterolemia-induced aggravation of oxidative injury in rats
Authors: Alsaad Abdulaziz MS , Almalki Mohammed S , Almutham Ibrahim , Alahmari Abdulwahab A , Alsulaiman Mohammed , Al-Rejaie Salim Saleh
Published: October 2019

Background: Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk factor for several cardiovascular and metabolic diseases through triggering oxidative and pro-inflammatory cascades. Baicalein (BL) is a natural flavone with multiple therapeutic properties. Thus, the present study aims to highlight the protective value associated with BL supplementation in hypercholesterolemic rats.
Keywords : hypercholesterolemia, baicalein, inflammation, oxidative stress
Methods: In this context, animals were fed for sex weeks on high cholesterol diet (HCD) then BL oral treatments in two doses (25 and 50 mg/kg/day) was started and continued for four weeks. In serum, lipid profile, liver enzymes, cardiac enzymes, renal markers, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-10 (IL10), caspase-3, nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin-2 (PG-2) levels were estimated. In renal, hepatic and cardiac cells, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBARS), glutathione (GSH), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities were measured.
Results: In hypercholesterolemic animals, the altered levels of lipoproteins, aminotransferases, creatine kinases and urea were significantly corrected by BL. Inflammatory and apoptosis biomarkers were also markedly attenuated in HCD groups following BL treatment. Hypercholesterolemia considerably evoked the lipid peroxidation product, TBARS, and oxidative radicals in cardiac, hepatic and renal tissues, which were attenuated by BL treatment, particularly the 50 mg/kg/day dose. BL improved the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) following their suppression in HCD groups. In addition, the histological alterations induced by cholesterol overload in the cardiac, hepatic and renal tissues were ameliorated by BL supplementation.
Conclusions: As a conclusion, the up-regulated oxidative damage, inflammation and necrosis observed within the hypercholesterolemic animals could be enhanced by co-administration BL. Activation of the cellular antioxidant enzymes alone with suppression of inflammatory cytokines may be involved to mediate these prominent effects.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of skilled assistance seeking for maternal healthcare services and associated factors among Women in West shoa zone, Oromia, Region, Ethiopia, 2017
Authors: Tefera Eden Girmaye , Abdisa Fikadu Wondimu , Erena Maru Mossisa
Published: October 2019

Background: Access to skilled health services during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum is crucial element which promotes the health and wellbeing of the mother and new born. The aim of the study was to assess women’s knowledge, attitude and practice of skilled assistance seeking for maternal healthcare services in West Shoa zone. Methods: A community based cross sectional quantitative design was conducted in West Shoa zone, Oromia, Ethiopia in 2017. A multistage, random sampling technique was used to select women who had birth in the past one year preceding the study. Interviewed administered structured questionnaire were used to collect the data. A total of 654 women were involved in this study. Data was analysed using SPSS version 20 statistical software package. Pre-tested and structured questionnaires were used to collect the data by trained data collectors. Logistic regression model was used to control the confounding variables at p-value< 0.05. Results: Out of 654 respondents, 416 (63.6%) delivered at health facilities and 268 (36.4%) at home. Skilled assistance seeking for maternal health services was significantly associated with mother’s education (AOR=3.0, 95%CI=1.18-7.84), mother’s access to maternal health information (AOR=3.1, 95% CI=1.13-8.41). Women’s awareness was significantly associated with antenatal‐care attendance (AOR 1.9) and institutional delivery (AOR 3.1). Women who had experience obstetric problems were twice seek skilled provider than those who had not had complications (AOR=2.3, 95%CI=1.39-3.75. P-value=0.001). Women who experiences complications seek a skilled postnatal care more likely compared with those who did not have such characters (AOR=2.2, 95%CI=1.35-3.66. P-value=0.002). Conclusion: The study revealed that low practice of sought care from skilled providers. Hence, it is highly recommended to improve the socioeconomic factors such as maternal literacy, availability of transport facility in case of emergency referral and service availability may increase care seeking from health facilities. Keywords: Skilled assistance, Seeking and Maternal healthcare services.
Assessing Smart Glasses-based Foodservice Training: An Embodied Learning Theory Approach
Authors: Clark Jeffrey , Crandall Philip G. , Pellegrino Robert , Shabatura Jessica
Published: October 2019

The present study evaluated simulated, hands on foodservice training delivered through smart glasses compared to passive, strictly video-based training. Handwashing performance variables, including frequency and efficacy, were measured along with post-training reactions. Participants in the strictly video-based group (N = 24) were four times more likely to wash hands than the smart glasses group (N = 25), (95% CI: 1.129 - 14.175). This research highlights how simulation training of handwashing with smart glasses can result in poorer learning outcomes compared to traditional training methods, potentially due to the psychological effects of hand cleansing. The observed training outcomes may also show the need to improve smart glasses-based training by finding ways to decrease attention demands and implementing augmented reality intelligence systems that can enforce training outcomes. Future research should utilize longitudinal studies to determine the impact of smart glasses-based training on food safety behavior habit formation.

La présente étude a évalué une formation en service alimentaire active et appliquée, livrée par l’entremise de lunettes intelligentes, comparativement à une formation passive strictement basée sur la vidéo. Des variables de rendement relatives au lavage des mains ont été mesurées, y compris la fréquence et l’efficacité. Les participants du groupe dont la formation était strictement basée sur la vidéo (N = 24) étaient quatre fois plus susceptibles de se laver les mains que les participants du groupe aux lunettes intelligentes (N = 25), (95 % IC : 1,129 – 14,175). Les résultats soulignent que la formation par lunettes intelligentes dans laquelle les participants s’exercent à se laver les mains peut entraîner de moins bons résultats d’apprentissage que les méthodes de formation traditionnelles. Cela peut être dû à : a) la nature du contenu pédagogique, dans lequel la mémoire prospective intervient, comparativement à des études préalables avec l’apprentissage incarné et les lunettes intelligentes, qui ont évalué la mémoire rétrospective et les fonctions motrices, ou b) aux effets psychologiques sur la mémoire dont le groupe aux lunettes intelligentes aurait fait l’expérience durant la formation. Des études futures pourraient explorer l’effet de la formation par simulation à l’aide de lunettes intelligentes sur d’autres tâches de service alimentaire.
Radiation-hygienic assessment of the concentration and distribution of 90Sr and 137Cs in ichthyofauna of the Ob’-Irtysh river system
Authors: Trapeznikov A. V. , Nikolkin V. N. , Korzhavin A. V. , Trapeznikova V. N.
Published: October 2019

The aim of the work is the radiation-hygienic assessment of 90Sr and  137Cs content in fish of the Ob-Irtysh river system and the study of the basic laws of the radionuclides accumulation in the ichthyofauna of these rivers. To perform this task, long-term results of radioecological studies of fish from the Techa, Irtysh and Ob rivers for the period 2004-2016 were used. Fish as a food product was evaluated according to two criteria: a) permissible levels of radionuclides specific activity (SanPiN 2.3.2.1078-01); b) using the indicator of conformity В and uncertainty of its definition ΔВ (GOST 32161-2013 and GOST 32163-2013). It is shown that a higher content of radionuclides is observed in the ichthyofauna of the Techa river (1379.1 Bq/kg for 90Sr and 41.9 Bq/kg for 137Cs). On the Ob and Irtysh rivers, the average specific activity of radionuclides in fish was significantly lower and slightly changed during the surveyed area: for 90Sr in the range of 6.0 ÷ 8.1 Bq/kg (mean 6.8), for 137Cs – 0.6 ÷ 1.9 Bq/kg (mean 1.3). Assessment for compliance with radiation safety criteria using the indicator of compliance and its uncertainty (В+ΔВ) confirmed the unsuitability of use for food purposes by the radiation factor of all studied fish species from the Techa river (45÷55 >1). Fish from all other studied areas of the Ob-Irtysh river system can be used for food without restrictions (0,06÷0,53 < 1). The distribution of 90Sr and 137Cs in the ichthyofauna of the Ob-Irtysh river system part over a 2400 km is presented in the form of empirical regression models. The models describe a sharp decrease in the radionuclides specific activity in fish in the Techa and Iset rivers by two orders for 90Sr (from 2000 to 20 Bq/kg), and by one order for 137Cs (from 40 to 2 Bq/kg). With a high degree of reliability (R2>0.86 for 90Sr and R2>0.92 for 137Cs), the presence of power relationships between the content of radionuclides in the ichthyofauna and their content in water was shown, with adequacy confirmed by Fisher’s F-criteria. This can be used for a preliminary assessment of the radionuclides level in fish based on the results of measurements of the average annual concentrations of these radionuclides in water.
Heritable effects in offspring associated with harmful exposure to parents (Literature review)
Authors: Sosnina S. F. , Sokolnikov M. E.
Published: October 2019

A review of literature data regarding the heritable effects in offspring due to parents’ contact with mutagenic risk factors is presented. Studies on various factors of adverse effects on the hereditary apparatus, including chemical, infectious, physical and biological, are considered. The influence of smoking and parents’ age on the occurrence of de novo mutations is shown. Particular attention is paid to the review of publications on the role of the radiation factor in the genesis of hereditary disorders in offspring. Development stages of radiation genetics, the evolution of conception about radiation harm are described. The results of experimental, cytogenetic, molecular genetic, epidemiological studies analyzing the contribution of parental exposure to inherited pathology in progeny are presented. Special attention is paid to the “untargeted” effects of radiation and studies which prove the possibility of transgenerative transmission of genome instability are presented. The special contribution of studies on the cohort of atomic bomb victims offspring in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which is considered as the main scientific platform for radiation risk assessment, is noted. There are articles about the offspring of persons who underwent therapeutic exposure, who had professional contact with ionizing radiation, who were exposed to radiation as a result of the Chernobyl accident, nuclear weapons tests at the Semipalatinsk test site, chronic radiation in the radioactively contaminated territory of the Techa river, areas with naturally increased radioactivity. As a result, it was noted that, despite numerous confirmations of radiation-induced effects in offspring obtained within experimental and molecular genetic studies, the results of epidemiological studies remain controversial. Possible reasons for these discrepancies are considered. An idea of views evolution regarding heritable effects in the international system of radiation safety is given. A new approach of the International Commission on Radiological Protection to heritable effects is described; the dynamics of tissue weighting factors for gonads in the assessment of effective radiation dose is shown. Methods for evaluating heritable effects are presented: the direct method and the doubling dose method. Attention is focused on the uncertainties that remain in the modern assessment of radiation genetic damage. The necessity of further study of radiation-induced heritable effects is shown. The perspective directions of studying the heritable effects are considered. The possibility of the analysis of heritable effects is described using the example of a cohort of the Mayak Production Association workers’ offspring – the country’s first nuclear industry enterprise.
On the issue of coordination of the activities of forces and means of organizations and institutions of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia and Rospotrebnadzor in emergency situations of a radiation nature
Authors: Samoilov A. S. , Romanovich I. K. , Grachev M. I. , Salenko Yu. A. , Barkovsky A. N. , Repin V. S. , Bogdanova L. S.
Published: October 2019

The article identifies areas of joint activities and mechanisms of interaction of Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Wellbeing (Rospotrebnadzor) and Federal Medical and Biology Agency (FMBA of Russia), their territorial bodies and institutions in the event of radiation accidents. Extensive practical experience gained by specialists of FMBA of Russia and Rospotrebnadzor, was the basis for the development of the draft of Concept “Organization of radiation and hygienic measures in emergency situations of a radiation nature and coordination the activities of forces and means of FMBA of Russia and Rospotrebnadzor organizations and institutions” (2018). The article presents the main provisions of the draft document, which, after discussion and refinement, as the authors hope, this publication will contribute, draft of Concept can be submitted for approval. The modern infrastructure of Rospotrebnadzor and FMBA of Russia has all the necessary elements and prerequisites for coordinated work of expert support groups, use of the mobile specialized radiation-hygienic teams in emergency situations. The possible types of radiation accidents that may require joint activities of the bodies and institutions of Rospotrebnadzor and FMBA of Russia are considered. In the initial period of a radiation accident in conditions of large uncertainties related to the assessment of the radiation situation and doses on personnel and the public, it is necessary to ensure operative preparedness of consolidated proposals on making decisions on a complex of sanitary, hygienic, anti-epidemic and protective measures. Much attention is paid to mutual notification and information interaction. An important element in ensuring emergency preparedness, working out algorithms of the interaction of management bodies and practical skills of the personnel of Rospotrebnadzor and FMBA of Russia is the joint planning, organization and conduct of training and exercises.
Determinants of Needle Stick Injuries Among Healthcare Providers at a Tehran University Hospital in 2016: A Descriptive Report
Authors: Moghadam Seedreza J. , SeyedAlinaghi SeyedAhmad , Dadras Omid , Ali Zoha , Mojtahedi Seyed Y. , Amini Fariba , Mohammadifirouzeh Mona
Published: October 2019

Background:

Needle Stick Injuries (NSIs) are the most common occupational injuries
among HCWs. The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence and distribution of determinants
for such injuries in a university hospital in Tehran, Iran, in 2016.

Methods:

We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study in Ziaeian Hospital, a teaching hospital
of Tehran University. The medical records of 55 Health Care Workers (HCWs) who experienced
NSIs in 2016, were extracted from the hospital registry and analyzed using SPSS version 22.

Results:

Available data of 55 HCWs with a history of NSIs were extracted from the hospital registry.
The highest number of NSIs belonged to registered nurses (34.6%), licensed practical nurses
(14.5%) and medical doctors (12.7%), respectively. The majority of the NSIs occurred in the
morning shift (50.9%) followed by night shift (36.4%) and evening shift (12.7%). Most of the
NSIs occurred in the emergency department (38.1%) and operating room (18.2%). The healthcare
workers reported fatigue as the most common reason for being injured by needles (67.4%). All the
HCWs were trained and familiarized with the safety and risk control measures after needle stick
exposures in the hospital.

Conclusion:

The present study described the determinants of NSIs among HCWs in a university
hospital. The fatigue and working overload were the main reasons for NSIs. The results of this
study could be used to address the shortcoming in the guidelines and protocols to ensure the sustainable
safety measures that could reduce the occurrence of the NSIs in hospitals in Iran.