bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy and its effects on neonatal outcome
Authors: Gupta Shweta , Jain Kanupriya , Kaur Jaspreet
Published: October 2018

Background: India has one of the highest Vitamin D deficiency rates in pregnancy in the world and yet we have limited research to study its various effects from our country. We aim to study the prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy and effect on neonatal outcome after supplementation.Methods: 200 pregnant women were recruited at 26 weeks and more. They were divided into sufficient group (normal levels of the vitamin), supplemented group (recruited at 26 weeks and supplemented for 8 weeks) and unsupplemented group (recruited after 34 weeks and so could not be supplemented) based on time of recruitment and levels of vitamin D. They were followed up till discharge of newborn from the hospital. Neonatal outcomes were noted.Results: The prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy in present study was 94.5%. Vegetarians and urban residents were more likely to have this deficiency. Admissions to NICU were significantly less in neonates of vitamin D supplemented women.Conclusions: The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is very high during pregnancy and further studies are needed to clearly define its role in neonatal outcome.
Fetomaternal outcome following labour induction in oligohydramnios and borderline liquor: a retrospective study in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Thomas Jyothi Susan , Daniel Mary , Selvaraj Sangeetha
Published: October 2018

Background: Amniotic fluid provides a protective milieu for the growing fetus in pregnancy and labour. A decrease in the amniotic fluid volume has been associated with increased maternal morbidity and fetal morbidity and mortality. The purpose was to compare the effect of labour induction on the fetomaternal outcome in women with oligohydramnios, borderline liquor and normal liquor at term.Methods: A retrospective study of all the labour induction in women with oligohydramnios, borderline liquor and normal liquor volume at 37-42 weeks gestation in a tertiary care teaching hospital. The demographic characteristics, maternal outcomes like mode of delivery, indication for operative delivery, meconium stained liquor and perinatal outcomes were compared in between the three groups. Parametric data was compared by chi-square test and non-parametric data by students’-test. A p-value less than 0.05 was taken as significant.Results: Among the 2338 deliveries during the study period, labour was induced in 266 women (11.3%). Out of which, 109 cases (40.9%) in oligohydramnios group, 111cases (41.7%) in borderline liquor group and 46 cases in normal liquor group. The incidence of meconium stained liquor, the number of operative deliveries and fetal distress was significantly higher and significantly lower birth weight (<2.5 kg) in the group with oligohydramnios and borderline liquor (p <0.05). Low Apgar score and admission to neonatal intensive care unit was higher in the oligohydramnios group (p<0.05).Conclusions: Induction of labour on detecting borderline liquor at term may help in reduction of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.
Anemia in relation to body mass index among female students of North Kerala: a pilot study
Authors: Thamban Veena , Venkatappa Kavana G. , K. Swarnalatha P. , M. Sparshadeep E.
Published: October 2018

Background: Anemia among women causes many serious health problems and is pervasive in developing country. Many research studies have documented that malnutrition affects body growth and development, especially during the crucial period of adolescence. The association between anemia and body mass index (BMI) is a measure of nutrition and health status of adults. Aim was to study the association between anemia and BMI among female students.Methods: An observational study was conducted among first year medical and dental female students (n=109) aged 18-20years. Hemoglobin (Hb) levels (g/dL) by Sahli’s hemoglobinometer and BMI (kg/m2) were estimated. Anemia was defined as Hb content <12g/dL. Subjects were classified by BMI categories as underweight (BMI <18.5kg/m2), normal weight (BMI:18.5-24.99kg/m2), overweight (BMI ≥25kg/m2) and obesity (BMI ≥30kg/m2) according to WHO. Then the relation between anemia and BMI were statistically analyzed.Results: Overall, 48.62% female students were anemic. Of which 43.4% were underweight, 22.6% normal weight and 34.5% were above normal weight (over weight and obese). Mean value of hemoglobin was significantly decreased in underweight and overweight compared to normal weight (p<0.001). Anemia was significantly associated with BMI (χ2 =46.48, p=0.000).Conclusions: The study concludes the occurrence of anemia in both undernourished and over-nourished individuals which were significantly associated. Further studies are needed with larger sample size to document the factors that may be associated with anemia in females.
High intake of green tea decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit levels in Rattus novergicus strain wistar albino
Authors: Rani Sestia , Rasyid Rosfita , Desmawati Desmawati
Published: October 2018

Background: Anemia is one of four nutritional problems in Indonesia with a prevalence of 21.7%, the type of anemia is iron deficiency anemia. One of the causes of iron by tannins present in green tea. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of green tea on hemoglobin and hematocrit amount in Rattus novergicus strain wistar albino.Methods: This research used experiment with post-test only control group design. Twenty four rats were divided into four groups: the control group and the treatment group were given a different dose of 5.6g in a 1.8ml/200gr solvent, 8.4g in a 1.8ml/200g solvent, 11.2g in 1.8ml/200gr solvent for a month. Blood is taken through 2 ml orbital sinus using capillary pipette. hemoglobin examination using spectrophotometer and hematocrit checking using microhematocrit tool. The study was conducted in pharmaceutical laboratories and biochemical laboratories. Data analysis using one way ANOVA and Kruskal Wallis with degree of significance p<0.05.Results: The results of the study were found the mean differences amount of hemoglobin and hematocrit. The mean of control group in hemoglobin content was 16.39gr%, in treatment group were P1: 13.64gr%, P2: 11.19gr% and P3: 10.49 gr%, while in hematocrit control group was 44.83%, in treatment group were P1: 44.83%, P2: 39.17% and P3: 37.17%. Result of the test using one way ANOVA, which found the effect of green tea on hemoglobin (p value = 0.000) and result of the test using Kruskal-Wallis, which found the effect of green tea on hematocrit (p value = 0.017).Conclusions: Based on the results of this study concluded that there is influence of green tea on the decrease of hemoglobin and hematocrit amount in Rattus novergicus strain wistar albino. It is suggested to pay more attention to dose of green tea with normal limit of 8.4gr.
Clinic-etiological profile of pancytopenia in children: a tertiary care center based study of Kumaun region, India
Authors: Chand Ramesh , Singh Nutan
Published: October 2018

Background: Pancytopenia is not a disease entity but a triad of findings in which all blood cell lineages i.e leukocytes, erythrocytes and platelets are reduced in blood .It is consequence of various medical conditions. Present study was conducted to assess the etiology, clinical profile and bone marrow morphology of pancytopenia.Methods: A cross sectional prospective study was carried out among 42 children of age between 1 to 15 year with pancytopenia. Blood samples of the patients were analyzed for complete blood count and peripheral smear along with presence and absence of immature cells and abnormal cells. In bone marrow examination, morphology of all cell’s lineage, cellularity, parasite and abnormal cells were scrutinized. Trephine biopsy was done if indicated. Special investigations were done to confirm the diagnosis.Results: Among the 42 cases studied, age of the patients ranged from 1 to 15 years with a slight male predominance. Most of the patients presented with generalized weakness and weight loss and fever. The commonest physical finding was pallor, followed by splenomegaly and hepatomegaly.  The commonest cause for pancytopenia was megaloblastic anemia Among the non-haematological causes kala azar 5 (11.9%) is the leading cause in this study.Conclusions: The present study concludes that detailed primary haematological investigations along with bone marrow examination in pancytopenic patients are helpful for diagnosis and management. This study also suggests that megaloblastic anaemia, dimorphic anaemia and kala-azar should also be included in differential diagnosis of pancytopenia in this geographical area.
Study of risk factors associated with development of severe respiratory distress in the new born
Authors: Patil Sandeep , Halkude Varsha , Tondare Mahesh , Mudaglimath Anand
Published: October 2018

Background: As Transient tachypnea of newborn is the most common cause of Respiratory distress and significant number of newborns with respiratory distress develops severe respiratory insufficiency requiring intensive monitoring. With these points, we undertake to identify risk factors associated with development of severe respiratory distress in the new born.Methods: Hundred newborns that were having respiratory distress within 72 hours of birth admitted to NICU were included in the present study. The severity of respiratory distress was noted according to risk factors and clinical assessment. The details were noted in all the newborns- General information, history, risk factors and clinical examination findings of mother and newborn were documented.Results: In the present study, 62.5% of the newborns born to Primigravida mothers developed severe respiratory distress. In the present study it was seen that 83.6% of newborns with SGA developed severe respiratory distress compared to 60% and 33.3% newborns with LGA and AGA respectively. It was seen that the risk of neonatal respiratory distress markedly increased with decreasing birth weight (p<0.001).Conclusions: Immediate clinical outcome of newborn respiratory distress in term of mortality rate is variable and depends on the cause of newborn distress.
A study to assess the parent’s knowledge and attitudes on childhood immunization
Authors: Kumar P. R. Thirumalai , Kavinprasad M.
Published: October 2018

Background: Immunization has greatly reduced the burden of infectious diseases. Immunization prevents illness, disability and death from vaccine-preventable diseases including diphtheria, measles, pertussis, pneumonia, polio, rotavirus diarrhea, rubella and tetanus. Improving childhood vaccination coverage and timelines is a key health policy objective in many developing countries. Parent’s knowledge and their attitudes towards Immunization are likely to influence uptake.Methods: This is a descriptive study using a pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire pertaining to knowledge, attitudes of parents regarding immunization. The questionnaire was given to parents whose children were being immunized at a health center within a one month period.Results: About 90% of parents have the positive attitude towards immunization and 73% of parents have good knowledge about Immunization.Conclusions: Diseases like pneumonia, measles, pertussis that can be prevented by vaccination continue to be major contributors. Knowledge and attitudes of parents and socio cultural factor can influence the immunization status of the children.
An epidemiological study on alcohol consumption and knowledge of its harmful effects on human health among rural adult population of adopted villages covered under field practice area of a private medical college in Udaipur, Rajasthan
Authors: Kumar Rupesh , Luthra Rakhi , Hathi Maitri R.
Published: October 2018

Background: Consumption of alcohol among adults is a serious public health issue worldwide. However the knowledge of adverse effects of alcohol consumption on human health is very negligibly less in small towns and villages of India. Present study was conducted to determine the extent of alcohol intake and the knowledge of its adverse effects on human health among adult population.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on randomly selected 400 rural adults from a field practice area of private medical college, Udaipur.Results: Prevalence of alcohol consumption was found to be (47.25%) with (49.36%) males and (39%) females. More than half of drinkers (55.9%) were belonging to 30-39 age group. Country liquor was preferred by (68.88%) and only (17.77%) consume English (IMFL). (56%) of alcohol consumers were drinking alcohol for more than a year. Most of the drinkers (49%) were induced by their friends, (24%) were induced/influenced by their parents. (42.25%) drinkers had knowledge of harmfulness of alcohol drinking; however the awareness per se did not have statistically significant effect for alcohol consumption. Results showed that the knowledge of excessive intake of alcohol can cause harmful effects on human health like Infertility to woman, irregular menstrual cycle, cancer were statistically significant (p<0.05) gender wise, while effects like depression, sleep disturbances, alcoholic hepatises, liver disease, malnutrition were statistically not significant (p>0.05).Conclusions: There is a need to enhance awareness on adverse effects of alcohol and at least bring down consumption level among heavy drinkers through peer group/family/community involvement.
Medical leadership: interns’ perception on leadership skills: a qualitative study from Chennai
Authors: Sucharitha Sree T. , Suganya E. , Arumugam Balaji , Shirley P.
Published: October 2018

Background: Medical leadership, an essential skill for the emerging medical graduates has been rarely studied in India.Methods: A formative research was undertaken among 30 interns selected by purposive sampling method. Triangulation of free listing, pile sorting was done to elicit their perception on leadership attributes. This was followed by a semi-structured focus group discussion to elicit the characteristics and solutions to obtain adequate leadership skills. The data was analysed using Visual Anthropac 4.98.1/X software.Results: Interns perceived communication skills, impartiality, patience, honesty, self-discipline, receptive to others opinions, knowledge of medicine, self-confidence, and guiding teams as major characteristics of effective medical leadership. The respondents admitted they were deficient in the understanding of leadership traits as it was not required of them as medical undergraduates. Internship period provided multiple platforms to develop leadership skills such as demonstrating personal qualities, working with others, goal setting and delivering services individually thereby overcoming a training gap during undergraduate period. Interns suggested that structured training on leadership skills and personality development coupled with exposure to challenging clinical environments during the undergraduate period will help them emerge as confident leaders.Conclusions: Medical education reforms should support the inclusion of leadership training in the MBBS curriculum.
Lymphatic Drug Absorption via the Enterocytes: Pharmacokinetic Simulation, Modeling, and Considerations for Optimal Drug Development
Authors: Brocks Dion R. , Davies Neal M
Published: October 2018

Most orally administered drugs gain access to the systemic circulation by direct passage from the enterocyte layer of the intestinal tract to the mesenteric blood capillaries. Intestinal lymphatic absorption is another pathway that certain drugs may follow to gain access to the systemic circulation after oral administration. Once absorbed, drug diffuses into the intestinal enterocyte and while in transit may associate with fats as they are processed into chylomicrons within the cells. The chylomicron-associated drug is then secreted from the enterocyte into the lymphatic circulation, thus avoiding the hepatic first-pass liver metabolism, and ultimately entering to the systemic circulation for disposition and action. Due to the possibility of parallel and potentially alternative absorptive pathways, mesenteric blood capillary and lymphatic drug exposure are both potential pathways of systemic availability for any individual drug. In this report, an in silico modeling approach was adopted to delineate the salient pharmacokinetic features of lymphatic absorption, and provide further guidance for the rationale design of drugs and drug delivery systems for lymphatic drug transport. The importance of hepatic extraction ratio, absorption lag time, lipoprotein binding, and the influence of competing portal and lymphatic pathways for systemic drug availability were explored using simulations. The degree of hepatic extraction was found to be an essential consideration when examining the influence of lymphatic uptake to overall oral drug bioavailability. Lymphatic absorption could potentially contribute to multiple peaking phenomena and flip flop pharmacokinetics of orally administered drugs.
The effect of hearing amplification on tinnitus improvement
Authors: Bahaghighat Sara , Farahani Saeid , Hoseinabadi Reza , Jalaie Shohreh
Published: October 2018

Background and Aim: Using hearing aids is one of the most important management methods for patients with hearing loss and tinnitus. Many studies have been conducted to assess the effect of hearing aids on tinnitus using different tools, but there is no consensus on their usefulness and effect in relieving tinnitus. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of hearing amplification on tinnitus using the tinnitus handicap inventory (THI) and tinnitus psychoacoustic measurements.Methods: A total of 10 patients (5 male and 5 female), aged 39 to 70 years old with mild to severe sensorineural hearing loss (amplifiable hearing loss) and chronic tinnitus entered the study. The Persian version of the THI was completed for the patients and tinnitus psychoacoustic measurements, the visual analogue scale (VAS) loudness, and the annoyance VAS were performed. The patients used hearing aids for six weeks, and measurements were repeated after the intervention.Results: Comparing the total mean score of all of the study variables before and after the intervention showed significant reductions (p<0.05). Based on tinnitus pitch matching, no significant difference was observed in mean score changes in the THI between low-pitch and high-pitch groups.Conclusion: Improvement was observed in tinnitus annoyance after using hearing aids for 6 weeks. Tinnitus pitch is not a good criterion for determining tinnitus treatment prognosis.
Nursing research: A success story or what next?
Authors: Hallberg Ingalill Rahm
Published: October 2018

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The effects of multimedia education on anxiety and physiological status among patients with cerebral angiography: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Sayadi Leila , Varaei Shokoh , Faghihzadeh Elham , Ahmadkhani Zahra
Published: October 2018

Background &Aim: Cerebral angiography is a diagnostic procedure for cerebral disorders, particularly the disorders of cerebral blood vessels. However, as an invasive procedure, it can cause patients anxiety and physiological instability. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of multimedia education on anxiety and physiological status among patients with cerebral angiography.
Methods & Materials: This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted from October 2017 to January 2018 in the angiography unit of a university hospital in Tehran, Iran. Participants were 88 candidates for cerebral angiography who were randomly allocated either to an intervention (n = 44) or a control (n= 44) group. Patients in the intervention group were provided with at least thirty-minute multimedia education consisted of video-based education, verbal education, written materials (an educational booklet), and question and answer. Data on participants’ personal characteristics were collected before the intervention, while their state anxiety was assessed before multimedia education and after cerebral angiography via Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory. Moreover, participants’ physiological parameters were measured and documented in a data sheet before and every two hours after angiography up to their discharge from the angiography unit. The independent-sample t, Chi-square, and McNemar’s tests and the Generalized Estimation Equation were used for data analysis.
Results: After the intervention, 95.5% of patients in the intervention group and 86.4% in the control group had low level of anxiety; however, the between-group difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Moreover, anxiety level changed significantly neither in the intervention (P > 0.05) nor in the control (P > 0.05) group. In addition, after adjusting the effects of participants’ age, there were no significant between-group differences respecting the means of systolic blood pressure, the means of body temperature, peripheral oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate. However, the means of diastolic blood pressure and heart rate in the intervention group were significantly lower than the control group, irrespective of the effects of participants’ age.
Conclusion: Multimedia education has no significant effects on state anxiety but has significant effects on diastolic blood pressure and heart rate among patients with cerebral angiography.
Risk observation in the handling of dependent patients in health professionals of a hospital unit
Authors: Fernandes Carla Sílvia Neves da Nova , Couto Germano , Carvalho Rogério , Fernandes Daniela Gomes , Brito Lídia , Carvalho Patrícia , Ferreira Patrícia Fernandes
Published: October 2018

Background & Aim: There is a high incidence of work-related musculoskeletal injuries in health professionals, namely nurses and nursing assistants, especially associated with the handling and transfer of dependent patients. The present study intends to evaluate the risks of injuries of the health professionals through the observation of the handling of dependent patients.
Materials & Methods: A descriptive and correlational study was performed using the observation of the care provided by nurses and nursing assistants. This study was developed in a hospital of the City of Gondomar-Portugal, data collection was carried out between January and March 2018. 149 Professionals were selected by convenience. The data collected were analysed using IBM SPSS® Statistics version 24.0.
Results: The sample consisted of 149 participants, mostly female. Concerning the assessment of the burden associated with the handling of dependent patients, it was considered excessive by 74.5% of the professionals. Regarding the application of the Graça Risk Assessment Scale (2008), only 7% of the activities were considered low risk. Risk behaviours associated with inadequate space during the procedure, equipment not properly positioned, almost non-use of mobility aids, and failure to use the patient's collaboration to reduce the effort associated with the procedure were observed.
Conclusion: The knowledge obtained through this study will allow the implementation of strategies to reduce the likelihood of pain and musculoskeletal injury related to work.
Primary dysmenorrhea among the adolescents in Kwara state, Nigeria: The prevalence, knowledge and management
Authors: Saka Jimoh-Mohammed , Olaoye Olabis-Mola , Nneka Okafoagu , Saka Aishat-Oluwatoyin , Omolola Docas-Odunsi , Rabiyyah Haliru-Abdullahi
Published: October 2018

Background & Aim: Dysmenorrhea refers to the symptom of painful menstruation, which may be primary (occurring in the absence of pelvic pathology) or secondary (resulting from identifiable organic diseases). It is common gynaecological conditions that affect women of reproductive age group. The effect may be mild or severed on daily routine activities of women for one to three days of each menstrual cycle. It also has a significant effect on quality of life and personal health. This study aims to determine the burden and management of primary dysmenorrhea among the adolescent.
Materials and Methods: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among 400 randomly selected adolescent girls attending secondary schools. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data which was analysis using (SPSS) version 16.0. Data presentation was done through the use of tables and charts. Appropriate statistics test such as chi-square was used to analysis the association between the variables. The level of significance was determined at p < 0.05.
Results: The mean age of respondents was 15.2 ± 0.14, and the prevalence of dysmenorrhea was found to be 287(71.8%). About 215(53.8%) had poor knowledge while others believed it to be a disease 10(2.5%), a curse from God 69 (17.2%) and 47(11.8%) do not know the meaning. Significant number 174(43.5%) of the participants exhibited negative attitude towards menstrual pain, as 122(42.5%) resorted to self-treatment and medication, only 97(33.8%) ever consulted healthcare worker. Paracetamol 54(32%) was the most used drug for self-treatment while others include Feldene 33 (19.3, Diclofenac 27(15.8) and Gelucee 25(14.6), About 103(61.7%) of subjects do not know the side effects of the drugs they used.
Conclusions: The burden of primary dysmenorrhea was high, the knowledge and attitude exhibited was poor and most of the adolescent girls used a different kind of drugs whose side effects are not known. The need for in school awareness creation on the causes and it is management was emphasized.
Artificial Intelligence Algorithms Inspired By Life Sciences
Authors: TURGUT Hüseyin
Published: October 2018

Nature and life include many mysterious events, behaviors and format
within themselves. There is harmony between the environmental conditions,
behavior and forms of all living organism. Computer science, especially data
and information science, is based on the structure or behavior of living things
in the creation of many artificial intelligence algorithms by examining this
attitude of life. The rapid progress of the developing artificial intelligence
and information technology has increased the data and hidden data in our lives
many times and has tried to solve (1).

Artificial
intelligence has examined many areas or environments and has developed
approaches based on it. Expert systems, artificial neural networks, genetic
algorithms, inductive learning, explanation based learning, similarity based
learning, common sense information processing, database based reasoning, model
based reasoning, rational protection mechanism, distributed artificial
intelligence, natural language processing, chaos theory, logic programming are
the artificial intelligence algorithms used for these approaches (2). Among
artificial intelligence algorithms; The ant colony algorithm imitates the
behavior and direction of ants, and artificial neural networks imitates the
behavior and functions of neurons in the nervous system and genetic algorithms
imitates the theoretical form of genetic science (3, 4). Many algorithms such
as these algorithms are based on the vital form and behavior of living things. The
purpose of this review is the relations between the mentioned algorithms and
the living science are examined.
Comportamento Dinâmico Do Gerador De Indução Com Dupla Alimentação Orientado No Fluxo Estatórico
Authors: Da Costa Jean Patric , Marques Jeferson , Gründling Hilton A. , Pinheiro Humberto
Published: October 2018

Este artigo analisa o impacto da banda passante dos controladores PI de eixo q e d no comportamento dinâmico do Gerador de Indução com Dupla Alimentação (GIDA) orientado no referencial do fluxo estatórico. Com a conecção direta do estator do gerador a rede elétrica, variações na tensão no Ponto de Conecção Comum (PCC) ou variações da corrente dr i causam oscilações no fluxo estatórico. Essas oscilações podem ser amortecidas através da escolha adequada da banda passante dos controladores PI de eixo q e d. Além disso, este artigo contribui com uma análise e metodologia de projeto que garante a estabilidade e bom desempenho do estimador não linear utilizado para obter a posição do fluxo estatórico. Para validar a análise são mostrados resultados experimentais obtidos a partir de um conversor trifásico com modulação Space Vector totalmente controlado através do DSP TMS320F241.
Estudo Do Inversor Bifásico De Tensão De Três Braços Para Acionamento Do Motor De Indução Bifásico Operando Na Região De Sobremodulação
Authors: Martins Denizar Cruz , Tomaselli Luis C. , Lazzarin Telles B. , Barbi Ivo
Published: October 2018

Neste artigo estuda-se o inversor bifásico de tensão de três braços operando na região de sobremodulação. O desempenho do sistema, no que se refere ao aproveitamento do barramento CC, pode ser melhorado com a elevação da tensão de saída através do funcionamento na região não-linear. São analisadas duas técnicas e, proposta uma terceira trabalhando na região não-linear com trajetória elíptica. A nova técnica permite reduzir o conteúdo harmônico da tensão de saída. São apresentados resultados experimentais empregando modulação vetorial para sua implementação.
On The Study Of The Dynamics Of The Zvs Three-phase Dc/dc Converter
Authors: Oliveira Jr. Demercil S. , Bascopé René P. T. , Barbi Ivo , Silva Carlos E. A.
Published: October 2018

This paper presents the theoretical analysis concerning the operating stages of the three-phase dc/dc converter associated with the hybridge rectifier, in order to obtain its dynamic model. The nonlinear instant model in state space form is obtained by the definition of a switching function q(t). From this model, an average nonlinear model is proposed, as well as a linearized model. The dynamic model, the controller design, and also experimental results obtained from a prototype of 6kW are presented.
The Challenges for Digital Society: Education and E-Leadership
Authors: Capogna Stefania , Figus Alessandro , Mustica Stefano
Published: October 2018

The way in which digital technologies have transformed our everyday lives is before our eyes. Such technologies now appear to be physical and cognitive prostheses that give meaning and continuity to our daily work, radically redefining the times, the spaces and the ways of our daily living. These changes pose new challenges in training leaders able to lead the socio-economic changes. This process of general increase of complexity in our society is leading to the emergence of a new socio-economic and organizational model that we are not able to understand and govern yet, opening up scenarios of profound inequalities and new risks. We are in the middle of a crossroads of opposing tensions which do not find explanations in univocal interpretations but demand a collective effort to understand the renewed role which university can have in advanced modernity. What are the great challenges of the future? How can human development be pursued in the context of the changes and uncertainties that characterize our times? Trying to define the boundaries of this radical change is just the first step in an effort to understand today’s complexity.
Are there any significant differences in the amount of antihypertensive drugs used between subjects with diabetes and hypertension and subjects with hypertension?
Authors: Grzeszczak Wladyslaw , Markowicz Anna
Published: October 2018

Wstęp

Cukrzyca oraz nadciśnienie tętnicze powodują zarówno istotne pogorszenie jakości życia, jak i skrócenie czasu przeżycia chorego. Celem pracy było znalezienie odpowiedzi na następujące pytania: 1) ile średnio leków przeciwnadciśnieniowych zażywa chory na nadciśnienie oraz chory na cukrzycę i nadciśnienie tętnicze; 2) czy na skutek upośledzenia czynności nerek chorzy zażywają większą ilość leków przeciwnadciśnieniowych; 3) czy występują różnice w ilości stosowanych leków przeciwnadciśnieniowych między badanymi przez nas grupami.

Materiał i metody

Do badania włączyliśmy kolejnych 300 chorych zakwalifikowanych w trybie pilnym do przyjęcia do Kliniki Chorób Wewnętrznych, Diabetologii i Nefrologii w Zabrzu. Powodem przyjęcia były nadciśnienie tętnicze i cukrzyca lub nadciśnienie tętnicze bez cukrzycy. Pomiaru masy ciała oraz wzrostu dokonano przy użyciu mechanicznej wagi lekarskiej kolumnowej ze wzrostomierzem firmy AED. 24-godzinnego automatycznego pomiaru ciśnienia tętniczego krwi dokonano aparatem Oscar 2.

Wyniki

Nie wykazano znamiennych statystycznie różnic między ilością stosowanych leków u chorych na nadciśnienie z cukrzycą lub bez cukrzycy. Wykazano, że wraz z pogarszającą się czynnością nerek badani zażywali istotnie więcej leków przeciwnadciśnieniowych (szczególnie chorzy na cukrzycę i nadciśnienie tętnicze).

Wnioski

1. Chorzy na cukrzycę i nadciśnienie tętnicze oraz chorzy na nadciśnienie tętnicze bez cukrzycy stosują średnio 3,53 ± 2,22 leków spośród określonych grup leków przeciwnadciśnieniowych. Brak różnic w ilości zażywanych leków między badanymi grupami.
2. Wraz z pogorszeniem czynności wydalniczej nerek wzrasta ilość leków przeciwnadciśnieniowych zażywanych przez chorych, szczególnie u chorych na cukrzycę.
3. Wraz z pogorszeniem czynności nerek ilość stosowanych leków przeciwnadciśnieniowych jest większa u chorych na cukrzycę i nadciśnienie niż u chorych na nadciśnienie bez cukrzycy.
Theatrical play and social skills development: teachers’ perspectives on educating autistic students
Authors: Bella Maria , Evaggelinou Christina
Published: October 2018

The pedagogy of theatrical play is a relatively new educational approach within the school system. Aim is to examine teachers’ opinions of theatrical play as a method which can provide opportunities for students with autism to interact with others in a fun and supportive environment. Twelve teachers who are selected by purposive sampling (M = 40.6 years) are teaching students with autism in general primary schools in Northern Greece and participated in semi-structured interviews which lasted 45 minutes. The protocol of interview consisted of 13 open-closed questions. The answers were collected through a recording device. A depth-analysis of teacher’s responses was used to analyse their patterns and relationships. Teachers believe that theatrical play with appropriate curricular decisions and knowledge can hold an essential place in the classroom and supported the hypothesis that it is especially effective in developing and improving the duration and frequency of autistic students’ social interactions.
Keywords: Autism, teaching, theatrical play, school, social skills
The Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Complexity, Accuracy, and Fluency in EFL Learnersâ€™ Oral Performance
Authors: Abdolrezapour Parisa
Published: October 2018

Over the last three decades, emotional intelligence (EI) has received considerable empirical attention especially in academic context. Following this line of research, the study reported in this paper investigated the relationship between trait EI and EFL learnersâ€™ second language (L2) oral performance. A sample of 102 Iranian EFL students, all between 13 and 18 years old (approximately half male and half female), performed an oral narrative task under laboratory conditions and completed the trait emotional intelligence questionnaire-adolescent short form (TEIQue-ASF), which is used to measure global trait EI. The correlational analysis of the results indicated a positive relationship between EI and learnersâ€™ L2 oral performance as measured in terms of complexity, accuracy and fluency. Those with higher degree of EI were able to produce more accurate and complex language. The relationship between EI and fluency measures, however, did not reach significance. Findings of this study point to the importance of focusing on learnersâ€™ emotions and finding strategies to foster it.

Keywords: Emotional intelligence, accuracy, complexity, fluency, language achievement
Reliability and Validity of the Transcultural Self-Efficacy Tool Questionnaire (Greek Version)
Authors: Sarafis Pavlos , Michael Igoumenidis , Chara Tzavara , Maria Malliarou
Published: October 2018

Background and Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the psychometric characteristics of the Transcultural Self-Efficacy Tool (TSET). Methods: The translated questionnaire was distributed to 250 nurses and 150 student nurses. Internal consistency was determined and convergent validity was examined. The structure of the questionnaire was investigated using factor analysis. Results: The internal consistency coefficient for all subscales was acceptable and more than .70. Cronbach's alpha was .91 for affective and self-awareness subscales and .85 for recognition and advocation. Six factors were revealed with eigenvalues of more than 1 and accounted for 60% of the total variance. Conclusions: The factorial composition of the TSET continues to be consistent with the underlying theoretical framework and the related literature. The Greek version of TSET was found to possess good reliability and validity.
The Modified-Fetzer Multidimensional Measure of Religiousness and Spirituality: Examination of Construct Validity in Older Black Adults
Authors: Mokel Melissa J. , Shellman Juliette M.
Published: October 2018

Background and Purpose: Sociocultural explanatory frameworks are increasingly being considered to address causes of health disparities, and attention has been focused on religion among Black Americans and its subsequent influence on health. The purpose of this study was to examine a multidimensional measure of religiousness and spirituality (Modified-Fetzer Multidimensional Measure of Religiousness and Spirituality [M-FMMRS]) in a sample of Black older adults. Methods: The M-FMMRS was administered to 130 study participants, and confirmatory factor analysis was conducted. Results: Findings did not support the hypothesized factor structure. Conclusions: Overall, the M-FMMRS is a reliable survey, but the validity needs to be further addressed. Historical documentation, review of data, and participant feedback are used to examine findings.
Psychometric Testing of the Autonomy and Relatedness Inventory–Spanish Version
Authors: Linares Ana Maria , Hall Lynne , Ashford Kristin
Published: October 2018

Background and Purpose: The Hispanic population is the fastest growing ethnic group in the United States. There is a lack of validated health-related tools culturally and linguistically appropriate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Autonomy and Relatedness Inventory–Spanish version (ARI-S). Methods: We recruited a convenience sample of 100 pregnant Hispanic women. Results: Cronbach's alpha for the ARI-S total scale was .92. Factor analysis yielded a similar factor structure as reported with the ARI-English version. As hypothesized, the ARI-S was inversely correlated with depressive symptoms and positively correlated with social support. Conclusions: ARI-S provides a psychometrically sound method for measuring the quality of intimate relationships. This is particularly important considering the limited inclusion of Hispanic women in current research.
The Useful Depression Screening Tool for Older Adults: Psychometric Properties and Clinical Applicability
Authors: Klinedinst N. Jennifer , Resnick Barbara
Published: October 2018

Background and Purpose: The purpose of this study is to test the reliability and validity of the 3-item Useful Depression Screening Tool (UDST) for use with older adults in congregate living settings. Methods: There were 176 residents of senior housing or assisted living who completed the UDST. Rasch analysis and test criterion relationships with pain, physical activity, and depression diagnosis were used to determine validity. Test–retest reliability was conducted with 29 senior housing residents. Results: Rasch analysis demonstrated good fit of all items to the concept of depression. Criterion validity was supported, F(5) = 14.17, p < .001. Test–retest showed no significant differences in UDST scores over time (p = .29). Conclusions: The findings provide support for the validity and reliability of the UDST for use with older adults in congregate living settings.
Cómo entender y tratar el narcisismo con terapia EMDR
Authors: Mosquera Dolores , Knipe Jim
Published: October 2018

El trastorno narcisista de la personalidad y los rasgos narcisistas están asociados con conductas egoístas y falta de empatía hacia los demás. Los pacientes con alguna de estas presentaciones iniciales en terapia muestran un perfil centrado en sí mismos y una falta de empatía o preocupación por el sufrimiento que pueden causar a otras personas, pero esto es sólo parte de la historia. En ocasiones, la falta de empatía y el egoísmo son sólo una defensa. Para entender completamente este problema, también es necesario ser consciente de los problemas subyacentes de autodefinición que llevan a las manifestaciones conductuales del narcisismo. Como en cualquier problema psicológico, el tratamiento con la terapia de desensibilización y reprocesamiento por movimientos oculares exige comprender la manera en la que las primeras experiencias dan lugar a los futuros síntomas. Es fundamental comprender el recorrido desde las experiencias tempranas a las características narcisistas (incluidas las presentaciones encubiertas) para poder realizar una buena conceptualización del caso, así como entender las estructuras mentales de defensa que impiden acceder a las experiencias adversas nucleares que subyacen a los síntomas.
Vergleich von Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) und Biofeedback/Stress-Impfungstraining in der Behandlung von Prüfungsangst
Authors: Cook-Vienot Rosemary , Taylor Raymond J.
Published: October 2018

EMDR und Biofeedback / Stress-Impfungstraining und Nicht-Behandlung (NB) wurden in ihrer Wirkung, Prüfungsangst zu reduzieren, verglichen. Hierzu wurden jeder Kohorte 30 College-Studenten mit hoher Prüfungsangst randomisiert zugewiesen. Prä / Post-Bewertungen wurden unter Verwendung des Test Anxiety Inventory (TAI), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Rational Behaviour Inventory (RBI) und Autonomic Perception Questionnaire (APQ) durchgeführt. Behandelnde Therapeuten waren qualifizierte Fachleute mit mindestens zweijähriger Berufserfahrung in ihrem jeweiligen Verfahren. Die statistische Analyse, in der eine wechselseitige Varianzanalyse mit wiederholten Messungen durchgeführt wurde, ergab für alle Meßverfahren außer dem RBI signifikante Zusammenhänge zwischen dem Zeitfaktor (d.h. den Prä- / Post-Messungen) und den eingesetzten Verfahren. Die Veränderungs-Messwerte wurden post hoc Newman-Keuls Analysen unterzogen und zeigten, dass sowohl EMDR als auch B / SIT die Prüfungsangst signifikant reduzierten. Insgesamt erzielte EMDR hierbei bessere Ergebnisse als B / SIT.
Étude pilote de recherche sur l'apport du protocole de traitement intégratif de groupe par la désensibilisation et le retraitement par les mouvements oculaires chez des patientes atteintes de cancer
Authors: Jarero Ignacio , Artigas Lucina , Uribe Susana , Garcia Laura Evelyn , Cavazos Maria Alicia , Givaudan Martha
Published: October 2018

L'objectif de cette recherche est d'évaluer l'efficacité du protocole de traitement intégratif de groupe par la désensibilisation et le retraitement par les mouvements oculaires (PTIG-EMDR) dans la réduction des symptômes d'état de stress post-traumatique (ESPT) liés au diagnostic et au traitement de différents types de cancer chez des femmes adultes. La thérapie intensive PTIG-EMDR a été administrée pendant trois jours consécutifs, deux fois par jour, à 24 femmes adultes diagnostiquées avec différents types de cancer (cancer du col de l'utérus, du sein, du côlon, de la vessie et de la peau) et présentant des symptômes d'ESPT liés à leur diagnostic et à leur traitement. Les données ont été analysées à l'aide d'une ANOVA factorielle sur les effets du PTIG-EMDR, évalués avec le Short PTSD Rating Interview (entretien court d'évaluation de l'ESPT) comme variable dépendante, et le groupe (deux groupes de patientes : phase active et phase de suivi du traitement du cancer) et le temps (quatre intervalles de temps) comme variables indépendantes. Des analyses post hoc ont été effectuées. Les résultats ont montré des effets principaux significatifs pour le temps et le groupe. Aucune interaction importante n'a été observée. Les résultats ont également montré une amélioration subjective globale chez les participantes. Cette étude pilote suggère qu'une administration intensive du PTIG-EMDR peut être un apport valable pour des patients atteints du cancer et présentant des symptômes d'ESPT liés au diagnostic et au traitement. D'autres recherches comportant des études contrôlées randomisées seront nécessaires pour démontrer l'efficacité du PTIG-EMDR sur cette population.
Cohérence électroencéphalographique, vivacité des souvenirs et effets de valence émotionnelle des mouvements oculaires bilatéraux pendant le rappel de souvenirs désagréables et l'association libre subséquente : implications pour l'EMDR
Authors: Yaggie Matthew , Stevens Larry , Miller Seth , Abbott Angela , Woodruff Chad , Getchis Mike , Stevens Sean , Sherlin Leslie , Keller Brandon , Daiss Suzanne
Published: October 2018

Cette étude a examiné les effets de la stimulation bilatérale pendant le rappel de souvenirs désagréables suivi d'association libre, de manière similaire à la phase 4 de la psychothérapie EMDR. Quarante-six sujets sains féminins ont été affectés de manière aléatoire à l'une des trois conditions : mouvements oculaires bilatéraux (MOB), yeux fixes avec des mouvements en arrière-plan (MAP), ou contrôle par yeux fixes (Point), chacune se déroulant avec le rappel d'un souvenir modérément désagréable et chacune étant suivie d'une association libre avec le souvenir. Les enregistrements électroencéphalographiques ont été effectués sur ces participantes pendant la minute d'association libre avec le souvenir initial après chacune des cinq administrations des conditions. Les résultats n'ont révélé que des tendances à la hausse de la cohérence interhémisphérique bêta après les MOB. Toutefois, des augmentations statistiquement significatives des cohérences thêta et bêta frontales droites ont été montrées après les MOB, avec des tendances à la hausse similaires pour les thêta et bêta frontales gauches et pour les gamma frontales droites. Les cartes d'électrodes corticaux sont présentées pour ces effets de cohérence bêta. Les évaluations de vivacité de l'imagerie et de la valence émotionnelle ont été recueillies après chaque série de mouvements oculaires plus les associations libres, et ont montré une diminution significative pour toutes les conditions. Les résultats sont discutés dans le contexte de la proposition d'un modèle intégré de cohérence corticale en 2 étapes. Des suggestions sont formulées pour les recherches futures, y compris une investigation des implications possibles pour le traitement des traumatismes crâniens.