bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of the european economic news releases to the US financial markets in the crisis period
Authors: Vortelinos Dimitrios , Gkillas Konstantinos
Published: December 2016

This paper evaluates the effect of all European economic news releases on the US financial markets for the main crisis period from June 2007 up to October 2011. Evaluation concerns Sharpe ratios, as well as magnitude and frequency of volatility jumps for the periods before and after a news release. Sharpe ratios are examined with the risk of the excess returns being estimated by the flat-top Bartlett kernel estimator of Barndorff-Nielsen et al. (2008) with an optimal (in a finite sample) choice for the number of autocovariances, as suggested by Bandi and Russell (2011). Volatility jumps are detected according to the jump detection scheme of Ait-Sahalia and Jacod (2009).
Keywords: European economic news releases,crisis; macroeconomic variables, Sharpe ratio,jumps. JEL Classification: G01, G15
Coorporate governance mechanism and the moderating effect of independency on the integrity of financial reporting
Authors: Savitri Enni
Published: December 2016

The purpose of this study is to examine the moderating role of independency on the relationship between corporate governance mechanisms and institutional ownership, managerial ownership, independent commissioners, audit committee and the quality of public accounting firm towards the integrity of financial statements. This study used a sample of companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange during in 2014. There were 138 companies that were examined. Moderated Regression Analysis (MRA) was used to test the hypotheses. Results show that independency has a full moderating role on the relationship between institutional ownership, independent commissioners and quality of public accounting firm towards the integrity of financial statements. Independency has no moderating role on the relationship between managerial ownership and audit committee towards the integrity of financial statements.
Keywords: independency; corporate governance mechanism, quality, integrity. JEL Classification: G34, M41, M48
Effect of competing ions and causticization on the ammonia adsorption by a novel poly ligand exchanger (PLE) ammonia adsorption reagent
Authors: Chen Quanzhou , Zhou Kanggen , Hu Yuanjuan , Liu Fang , Wang Aihe
Published: December 2016

In this paper, a poly ligand exchanger, Cu(II)-loaded chelating resin named ammonia adsorption reagent (AMAR), bearing the functional group of weak iminodiacetate acid, was prepared to efficiently remove ammonia from solutions. Batch adsorption equilibrium experiments were conducted under a range of conditions. The effects of pH on the removal of ammonia by AMAR were investigated at 25 °C. The copper loaded on the resin forms a complex with NH3 in solution under alkaline condition. The effect of alkaline dosage (AD) on the ammonia adsorption was investigated. The maximum breakthrough bed volumes were obtained when the AD was set as 0.75 mmol OH−/mL. The higher AD did not guarantee the better ammonia removal efficiency due to the forming of Cu(OH)2 precipitate between OH− in solutions and Cu(II) on the resin. The effect of competing ions on the adsorption breakthrough curve of virgin AMAR and causticized AMAR was also investigated. The results demonstrated that the existence of competing ions had a negative impact on the adsorption capacity for both virgin AMAR and causticized AMAR. After causticization, the AMAR was more resistant to the competing ions comparing with virgin AMAR. The bivalent Ca2+ affects the ammonia adsorption more than does the monovalent Na+.
Apuntes para una teología en construcción.
Authors: Toutin Cataldo Alberto
Published: December 2016

All theological discourse is temporary because we are humans and due to the reality of God as God. Therefore, Aparecida, after Vatican II, speaks of disciples and dialogue: the Church is rethought as a servant, and agrees to be in need of help. There is also a religious diversity in our world today, resulting from globalization. The Church must learn to coexist and at the same time, to present an image of God that meets current standards. This also means rethinking the human being and rethink Christ, man like us. We have to rethink all our actions (social, sexual, etc.). We can not forget that theology not only begins on faith, but also in the life of concrete believers. Therefore, theology generates culture and a culture with eschatological direction: following the concrete Jesus and the saints.
Internal auditor’s contribution to good corporate governance: An empirical analysis for the one-tier governance system with a focus on the relationship between internal audit function and audit committee
Authors: Eulerich Marc , Velte Patrick , Theis Jochen
Published: December 2016

The effectiveness and efficiency of the corporate governance structure depends on different governance bodies within the organization. As crucial parts of good corporate governance they provide constituting, monitoring and controlling tasks concerning the risk management and internal control system. These corporate governance mechanisms include the internal control function (IAF) and the audit committee (AC). Based on a dataset of 550 responses from U.S. internal auditors, our study explores empirically the IAF’s contribution to good corporate governance. Our results suggest that the IAF constitutes a central element of the governance structure. Furthermore, an intensive interaction between the IAF and the AC is positively linked with the efficiency and effectiveness of the governance processes, internal controls and risk management.
Descriptive analysis of the theoretical perspectives in employment relations
Authors: Mzangwa Shadrack Themba
Published: December 2016

The objective of this paper is to provide an overview of the theoretical perspectives in employment relations and subsistence of unionisation. The general concept of unionisation and the analysis of theoretical perspectives in employment relations is discussed to contextualise this essay. The three theoretical perspectives discussed in this paper are the unitary perspective, radical perspective and the pluralist perspective which underpins this report. Elements of employment relations linked to the effects of unionisation are discussed since they form significant part of this essay. In conclusion, the author heralds that theories and techniques applied in employment relations are effectively based on the pluralist perspective as construed from the analysis
The effects of business support as a start-up factor on business performance
Authors: Radipere Simon
Published: December 2016

The study examined relationship between business support and business performance using 500 SMMEs in Gauteng province, South Africa. Questionnaire was used to collect data from 500 SMMEs owners. The findings from the survey were modelled through a categorical regression model with business performance as dependent variable. The level of significance of the four variables out of eight variables suggests that business support be classified as the strongest predictor of business performance.
Role of non-executive directors in implementing non-regulatory codes on corporate governance in SMEs listed in the alternative investment market in the UK: A content analysis
Authors: Chandrakumara Anil , Gunetilleke Walter
Published: December 2016

This study explores roles of NEDs of SMEs listed in the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) in the London Stock Exchange. It extends the literature on NEDs’ roles relevant to a context where the adherence to the principles of non-regularity corporate governance is not compulsory. We adopted a content analysis approach as a novel method for exploring roles of NEDs using details of 1220 NEDs recorded in 75 annual reports. It revealed that NEDs meet the expectations of several stakeholders simultaneously by playing multiple roles. A conceptual model depicting testable relationship between cognitive tasks and key roles of NEDs is also developed
Leveraging value with intangibles: more guarantees with less collateral?
Authors: Visconti Roberto Moro
Published: December 2016

This paper shows how intangibles can create scalable value, levered by debt and serviced by intangible-driven incremental EBITDA and cash flows. Intangibles intrinsically incorporate information asymmetries and may so discourage debt, but are also a vital component of cash generating value, so representing a key factor for debt servicing, with paradoxical effects (more guarantees with less collateral?). Operating leverage is enhanced by scalability, an intrinsic characteristic of many intangibles, with a positive impact on cash generation and consequent debt servicing. Ability to improve cash flows emerges as a key feature of value enhancing intangibles, bypassing their lack of collateral value.
Commitment to marketing strategies in cooperative business arrangement: Role of appropriate intelligence generation and inclusive participation
Authors: Musandiwa Joseph , Mpinganjira Mercy
Published: December 2016

This paper empirically examines the influence of appropriate intelligence generation and inclusive participation in marketing strategy formulation on commitment of SME owner-managers operating in cooperative business arrangement. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire from 256 owner managers operating mini-bus taxi businesses in South Africa. The findings show that appropriate intelligence generation during marketing strategy formulation and inclusive participation in strategy formulation has significant positive influence on member commitment to marketing strategies in a cooperative. The study has significant managerial implications as it identifies factors that managers of SMEs involved in cooperative business arrangements can focus on in order to effectively manage member commitment towards marketing strategies that need to be implemented by all.
A tautology of ancient leadership intelligence: An interpretive auto-ethnographic research
Authors: Mashingaidze Sivave
Published: December 2016

The main purpose of the article was to look into how business and management could extract from ancient data base of leadership intelligence for solutions. The article cherry picked a few great historical leaders who won wars using their leadership intelligence. An Interpretive auto-ethnography methodology was used and strategic intelligence qualities such as Changing the mood, Boldness of vision, Doing the planning, Leading from the front, Bringing people with you and finally Likeability Factor was explored from these leaders. The results was that all the above mentioned strategic intelligence qualities were quintessential for these historical leaders to achieve their objectives hence business and management today can learn and tap from these qualities for a competitive strategy.
The company secretary’s role in CG: private and public owned south African companies
Authors: Sigauke Joseph , Collins Patrick , Mutambara Emanuel , Sibanda Rosemary
Published: December 2016

This study investigates the role of the company secretary in ensuring and promoting proper Corporate Governance (CG) in public and private owned South African companies, so as to educate companies on their significance in reducing corporate scandals. The study followed a mixed research paradigm in which qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection were used. Fifty questionnaires were sent to company secretaries of different business sectors giving a response rate of 78% with four of the participants telephonically interviewed to gather qualitative data. The study confirmed that the company secretary still plays a significant role in promoting CG by giving support and advising the board and its directors on CG matters. The results further show that some company secretaries are involved in director selection, performance evaluation and implement induction, training and/or professional development to strengthen the company’s governance practices. Through the use of the Companies Act and the Kings report the company secretary ensures directors are kept abreast of relevant legislative and regulatory developments. It was observed that the company secretary ensures good information flow between the board, directors and stakeholders and keeps record of all conflicts of interest. Though the company secretary is appointed by the board they can whistle blow any misconduct under the protection of the Protected Disclosure Act, thus ensuring effectiveness of their role. Despite the fact that some of the company secretaries are facing challenges due to the ever evolving and increasing complexity of their roles, there has been evolution with regards to legislation, greater transparency, better governance and improved investor expectation. This study enriches company secretaries with knowledge of their expected role in CG.
SWOT analysis in the small business sector of South Africa: friend or foe?
Authors: Wiid Johannes Arnoldus , Cant Michael Colin , Holtzhausen Lizna
Published: December 2016

SMEs in South Africa are faced with a number of challenges, particularly poor levels of implementation in terms of accurately monitoring and predicting dynamic change in the macro environment. Following a strategic approach in scanning the external environment for opportunities and threats and identifying an organisation’s strengths and weaknesses using a SWOT analysis has become scarce in most SMEs. This research study aimed to establish if SMEs in South Africa use a SWOT analysis as part of their strategic management plan as well as to investigate if SMEs in South Africa take the time to identify and evaluate their internal and external environments. A questionnaire was administered and judgement sampling was used to gather the responses of 104 SMEs. The research identified that respondents were aware of the factors in specific functional areas that could be helpful to achieve business goals. The research also showed that financial management and marketing management were regarded as the most important drivers for achieving organisational objectives. The challenge now is to improve the use of the SWOT analysis of SMEs as they are the lifeline of the South African economy.
A framework for selecting optimal strategies to mitigate the corporate sustainability barriers
Authors: Chowdhury Md. Maruf Hossan , Hossain Md. Moazzem , A. Dewan Mohammed Naim
Published: December 2016

This paper develops a framework to prioritize the barriers to corporate sustainability and select the strategies to mitigate those barriers by applying an optimization based analytical hierarchy process integrated quality function deployment framework with multiple case studies. This research has collected data from the textile and clothing industries (six case companies) from an emerging economy, Bangladesh. Contingency theory, resource-based view and stakeholder theory are adopted to explain the sustainability barriers and their mitigation process through optimal use of resources. The study finds that lack of awareness, lack of governance, the utility supply problem and lack of expertise are the main barriers of CS. The findings also indicate that internal and external audits regarding compliance issues and setting policies for sustainability standards are considered as highly important mitigation strategies. Finally, the study identifies the optimal mitigation strategies based on maximising the relative importance while considering savings from the simultaneous implementations of strategies and constrained resources. This study advances existing CS literature by developing a framework to prioritize CS barriers and selects optimal strategies to mitigate those barriers. The developed framework should be of interest to organisations’ decision makers (specifically in the case of apparel industry of Bangladesh) in countries which have a similar institutional context.
Remuneration policy and corporate governance: Story from Indonesia, Malaysia, India, Singapore, Australia, and United States
Authors: Probohudono Agung Nur , Payamta Payamta
Published: December 2016

Objective - Remuneration becomes an interesting research project since the occurrence of global financial crisis in the world’s economic. Remuneration relates to the corporate governance issues as well as agency theory. The objective of this research is to test the factors affecting remuneration in 6 countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, India, Singapore, Australia, and United States). Design/ Methodology/ Approach - The research takes samples from 929 manufacturing companies on the list of stock exchange in 6 Countries during 2010 up to 2013 by using purposive judgment sampling. The years are chosen considering those are the years when the companies in those 6 countries underwent a recovery from the global financial crisis impact.
Result - There are significant differences in remuneration distribution between the companies with compensation committe or those without. Country/the company location in several ways could give significant difference related to remuneration distribution. Surprisingly, Company size and Compensation committee give negative effect towards remuneration distribution.
A contemporary approach for mitigating agency conflicts: A conceptual review
Authors: Yahya Farzan , Ghazali Zahiruddin
Published: December 2016

Excessive CEO compensation can be justified in any way as it can raise severe agency conflicts in a firm. Cases of excessive CEO compensation have observed all over the world, therefore, this paper propose significant solution to mitigate agency conflicts. This paper surveys the recent literature of CEO compensation and its determinants. Along with previous conventional determinants, this study proposed a new determinant, i.e. market share, which is omitted by prior studies and should be statistically validated with CEO compensation. Moreover, this study proposed plausible moderators, namely, corporate governance (ownership structure and board characteristics), dividend policy and risk taking. This study has provided enough evidences and room for research, which will benefit researchers in term of future empirical studies on different markets in the world.
Analysis of determinant factors in the choice of freight services provider
Authors: Stephens Mobolaji , Ukpere Wilfred Isioma
Published: December 2016

Choice making in freight demand is critical to any firm as transportation cost can reach as much as 75% of the total cost of finished and shipped goods. The knowledge of the factors that influences the choice decision making for shippers will be of particular interest to carriers and the shippers alike. The study therefore set out to determine the factors that influence the choice of carriers for companies; evaluate the factors and degree of influence or level of significance of these factors or attributes. Five (5) firms’ decision-making processes were studied for a combined total of 508 road trucking choice decision for what type or who does the shipment of their products and raw materials to and away from their respective manufacturing plants between January and June 2014. The firms were given a set of attributes or factors so that they are ranked using Likert scale of 1 to 5 to identify their level of significance. Multiple regression technique was used to establish the relationship between the factors and the choice of carriers. Regression analyses using analysis of variance, variance inflation factors and t-Test was done at 95% confidence level. The results showed that freight charges, quality of service, trust, price elasticity of freight demand and customer relations were the most significant factors/attributes that influenced the choice of a carrier in the five hundred and eighty shipments recorded for all firms in the study
Institutional theory for explaining corruption: An empirical study on public sector organizations in China and Indonesia
Authors: Sudibyo Yudha Aryo , Jianfu Sun
Published: December 2016

Many researches on corruption examined macro factors such decentralization, political democracy, press freedom, and economic freedom, as shown by Lecuna (2012), Alexeef and Habodazzova, (2012) and Goel and Nelson (2005). However, there are limited studies on corruption that examine this topic from organizational approach. The main purpose of this paper is to investigate existing institutional theories describing corrupt behaviour in Asian public sector organizations. A total of 171 questionnaires were distributed to public service officers who were currently enrolled as accounting postgraduate students in both China and Indonesia. The results support the institutional theoretical model used to explain corruption in public sector organizations. However, cultural differences in democracy were not a significant factor on respondent’s perception concerning corruptions in both of countries.
Corporate social responsibility and bank performance in transition countries
Authors: Djalilov Khurshid , Vasylieva Tetyana , Lyeonov Serhiy , Lasukova Anna
Published: December 2016

This paper studies the relationship between corporate social responsibility and bank performance for 16 transition countries of the former Soviet Union and Central and Eastern Europe. The aim is to investigate (1) the nature of the link between corporate social responsibility and bank performance and the motive of banks to engage in corporate social responsibility (2) whether this is different during stable (2002-2005) and turbulent (2008-2012) periods. The results of the structural equation model using the data for 254 banks show that corporate social responsibility positively impacts on bank performance in both periods and implies that the strategic choice is the main motive of the banks to engage in corporate social responsibility for the countries investigated in the paper.
The impact of the “going concern” on auditors’ judgement. Analysis of the Italian context from an international perspective
Authors: Sicoli Graziella , Tenuta Paolo
Published: December 2016

The present work aims to analyse the concept of going concern on the one hand, through a case study of three companies which have recently come under observation of the CONSOB and have been inserted in the so-called “black list” and, on the other, the consequences that the removal of the presumption of continuity can have on the kind of assessment the auditors make. The aim of the present work is twofold: the first part analyses the principle of going concern from a business and economic perspective. Once this has been completed, the work will go on to offer an overview of the dynamics that can bring a company to a crisis point, and how these affect the judgments expressed by the auditors.
Financial management: The impact of performance indicators on the organizational profitability
Authors: Awan Hayat M. , Bhatti M. Ishaq , Razaq Zahid
Published: December 2016

This paper investigates the financial management performance involved in increasing the firms’ profitability. It contributes to a single list of performance indicators which never existed in the literature empirically with reference to third world countries, like Pakistan. Stratified random sampling technique was used to select a sample of 200 manufacturing firms with process performance management system (PPMS) criteria to check the impact of performance indicators on the overall business performance index using ROE, ROA. The results of AHP analysis show that the “Supportive Culture” and “PPMS facilitate the competitive advantage” are the major facilitators for those organizations who have implemented the PPMS whereas firms without implementation of PPMS have major inhibitors as “ Non supportive culture” and ”Have another Performance System”. And the Measuring financial performance, Quality performance, Delivery reliability performance, customer satisfaction performance and employees satisfaction lead to increase in the organizational Profitability. This study will be helpful to the top management of the organizations from manufacturing sector regarding the implementing decision of the PPMS. The organization can choose the best indicators used by firms in order to achieve the overall excellence.
Incorporating Indigenous Knowledge Systems into Collaborative Governance for Water: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: von der Porten Suzanne , de Loë Rob C. , McGregor Deb
Published: December 2016

The importance of Indigenous knowledge systems for environmental decision-making is now widely recognized. In the context of collaborative approaches to environmental governance, scholars and practitioners have recognized that Western knowledge is not sufficient, and that ideas, practices, and knowledge from Indigenous peoples is essential. Collaborative environmental governance practice tends to make assumptions about how Indigenous knowledge systems can be incorporated into decision-making without reflecting satisfactorily on contrasting perspectives of Indigenous peoples themselves; these perspectives are partially captured in the Indigenous governance literature. This essay draws on empirical research in British Columbia, a place where First Nations have been approached by organizations involved in water governance to be involved in collaborative decision-making. The research reveals an important disconnect between the perspectives of Indigenous knowledge-holders and the people promoting “integration” of this knowledge into collaborative decision-making processes. We offer suggestions for reconciling collaborative approaches to water governance with Indigenous knowledge systems and the values and perspectives of Indigenous peoples.
Listening to Writing: Performativity in Strategies Developed by Learning from Indigenous Yukon Discourse, 1968–84
Authors: Hunter Lynette
Published: December 2016

The central two stories about anthropologist Julie Cruikshank and community-worker-turned-consultant John Hoyt tell of culturally “Western” people, who are chosen by Native peoples in the Yukon Territory to work on the writing of political stories during the period from 1968 to 1984. This historical period, coming only eight years after Native peoples had been declared “persons,” required a rethinking of the communicative and performative strategies previously assumed by non-Native interlocutors. Each writer had to learn to listen differently, generating in their writing not the concepts of the other at the heart of assumptive logics in the anthropological and Western political discourse of the time, but alterior and not-said values that live alongside what Peter Kulchyski calls a “certain kind of writing that is the state.” Each writer does this differently, addressing in Cruikshank’s case the collaborative work of alongside values emerging into socio-cultural discourse, and in Hoyt’s case the collaborative work of setting alongside values in a context that claims value within state politics. Learning about listening to alterior lives is a key skill that has to be relearned by each generation not as predictive strategies but as ways of becoming and ways of knowing.
“Row, Brothers, Row”: Canadian Boat Songs, Imperial Glee, and National Identity, 1805-67
Authors: Laxer Daniel
Published: December 2016

The collection and publication of folk songs was considered central to the expression of nationalism and national identity in the nineteenth century. The Irish poet Thomas Moore’s three-voiced glee titled “A Canadian Boat Song” was published in 1805 and was supposedly based on a folk melody of the French-Canadian voyageurs. This article explores how this invention of tradition relied on the pretense of authenticity to stand in as Canada’s national song, sparking its own category of poetry and music known as Canadian boat songs. It influenced the imaginings and experiences of British newcomers and immigrants, inspiring folk song collections and nationalist compositions that produced early articulations of English-Canadian national identity.
Immunohistochemical Staining of Estrogen Receptor and Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 in Carcinoma Breast in Bangladeshi Women
Authors: Islam Md Jaynul , Akhter Selina , Alam SM Mahbubul , Ali Md Yousuf , Yesmin Shamoli
Published: December 2016

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer death among women. Estrogen Receptor (ER), Progesterone Receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (Her-2/ neu) status are used as an important prognostic marker for breast cancer.Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate ER and Her-2 in breast carcinoma among Bangladeshi women and to co-relate with other prognostic parameters.Materials and Methods: The study was carried out in a tertiary level hospital in Bangladesh during the period of January 2010 to December 2011. Total 100 histologically proved breast carcinoma cases were included in the study. Immunostaining for ER and Her-2/neu were carried out. Quick scoring of ER and expression of Her-2/neu were correlated with histomorphological parameters.Results: Among 100 cases 93 were ductal carcinoma and 07 were non ductal. Among all, 38% show ER positive (score- 3-8) while 62% are ER negative (score 0-2). Her-2/neu was over expressed in 30%, 22% were borderline and 48% were negative. There were inverse relationship between ER positivity and Her-2/neu overexpression. ER positivity was related with lower histological grade, while Her-2/neu overexpression was related with higher histological grade.Conclusions: ER positivity in Breast carcinoma patients in Bangladesh is lower in comparison to western literature while Her-2/neu overexpression rate is quite high like other Asian countries.Journal of Armed Forces Medical College Bangladesh Vol.11(1) 2015: 7-13
Association of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone with Insulin Resistance in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Authors: Naher Salma , Begum Sultana Rajia , Ali Liaquat , Hakim Maksumul
Published: December 2016

Introduction: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a major cause of female infertility which is thought to be associated with Insulin Resistance (IR). However the nature and degree of IR have been shown to vary in different populations. PCOS women have also been reported to have increased prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism which has been postulated to be determinants of IR. The natures of thyroid involvement have also been shown to vary between populations.Objectives: The study was undertaken to explore the distribution of IR and thyroid dysfunction as assessed by Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels among PCOS subjects and also to investigate the association of IR with TSH in women with PCOS.Materials and Methods: One hundred and fifty one PCOS patients (age in years 24±5; M±SD) were studied. PCOS was diagnosed by Rotterdam criteria. Fasting serum C-peptide was measured by Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbide Essay (ELISA) and serum TSH was measured by Microparticle Enzyme Immunoassay (MEIA). Serum glucose was estimated by Glucose-Oxidase method (GOD-PAP). Insulin sensitivity was assessed by using Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA).Results: The mean serum C-peptide (nmol/l) and HOMA%S were 0.67 (±0.35) and 85 (±42) respectively. The median (Range) serum TSH level (?lU/ml) of the study subjects was found to be 2.49 (0.66 to 20.86). Insulin sensitivity was found to be 26%, 47%, 17% and 10% in those who had HOMA%S level at the range of <50, 50-100, 101-150 and >150 respectively. Of the total PCOS subjects, 85% had normal level of TSH value whereas only 15% PCOS subjects had subclinical hypothyroidism. The median serum TSH level of the insulin resistance and non-resistance groups were 2.25 (0.89-5.71) and 2.58 (0.74-20.86) respectively. On Pearson's correlation analysis insulin sensitivity was not found to be any significant association with TSH in the PCOS subjects.Conclusion: The study revealed that there was no significant association with IR and TSH in the PCOS subjects.Journal of Armed Forces Medical College Bangladesh Vol.11(1) 2015: 69-73
Flow Cytomerty: Clinical Applications in Haemato-Oncology
Authors: Rahman Md Mizanur , Giti Susane , Saha Debashish
Published: December 2016

In the past decade, the use of flow cytometry in the clinical haematology laboratory has grown substantially due to the development of smaller, user-friendly, less-expensive instruments and a continuous increase in the number of clinical applications. Multiple characteristics of single cells can be analyzed rapidly by flow cytometry. Both qualitative and quantitative information are obtained by flow cytometry whereas previously only in research institutions and esteemed academic centres flow cytometers were found. With advances in technology now it is possible for secondary level hospitals to use this methodology. This paper reviews the selected applications of flow cytometry in the clinical haematology laboratory in Bangladesh. This review serves to awaken the interest of stakeholders involved in the diagnosis and management of haematological malignancies (HM) in the efficacy of flow cytometry in the immunophenotypic characterization of leukaemias and lymphomas. Relevant literature including those provided by different international consensus groups on the phenotypic characterization of HM was reviewed. Additionally, recent reports on the immunophenotypic analysis of HM published in haematology, oncology, pathology, immunology and cell biology journals were also analyzed. Flow cytometric immunophenotyping of HM is highly demanding. It is highly useful in profiling the leukaemias and lymphomas and allows proper ramification along the latest WHO classification guidelines, thereby paving the way for targeted therapy and clinical trial-driven management, significantly outweighs the cost, which can be fully recovered if properly managed. In a low-resource setting like Bangladesh, limited immunohistochemistry serves to bridge the gap in technological advancement.Journal of Armed Forces Medical College Bangladesh Vol.11(1) 2015: 74-80
Acute Kidney Injury due to Rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Mahbub Tania , Jahan Ferdous , Haque Dewan Masudul , Chowdhury Md Nizam Uddin
Published: December 2016

Rhabdomyolysis was first described as crush syndrome, during the London blitz of world war-ll. lt is a common clinical syndrome resulting from muscle injury there after release of toxic cellular component especially myoglobin. Muscle injury may results from a variety of causes. Most common clinical presentation of rhabdomyolysis is triad of myalgia, weakness and dark colour urine. But presentation may be varied. Very often it causes acute kidney injury and demands renal replacement therapy. Acute Renal Failure (ARF) is usually associated with very high rise of Creatinine Kinase(CK) >10,000 u/L1. In this series, there are few cases with rhabdomyolysis who were admitted and treated in Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) during July 2010 to April 2011. These cases of rhabdomyolysis normally developed acute kidney injury who were managed with dialysis support.Journal of Armed Forces Medical College Bangladesh Vol.11(1) 2015: 93-95
Realistic Quantum Control of Energy Transfer in Photosynthetic Processes
Authors: El-Shishtawy Reda , Haddon Robert , Al-Heniti Saleh , Raffah Bahaaudin , Abdel-Khalek Sayed , Berrada Kamal , Al-Hadeethi Yas
Published: December 2016

The occurrence of coherence phenomenon as a result of the interference of the probability amplitude terms is among the principle features of quantum mechanics concepts. Current experiments display the presence of quantum techniques whose coherence is supplied over large interval times. Specifically, photosynthetic mechanisms in light-harvesting complexes furnish oscillatory behaviors owing to quantum coherence. In this manuscript, we study the coherent quantum energy transfer for a single-excitation and nonlocal correlation in a dimer system (donor+acceptor) displayed by two-level systems (TLSs), interacting with a cavity field with a time-dependent coupling effect considering the realistic situation of coupling between each TLS and the cavity field. We analyze and explore the specific conditions which are viable with real experimental realization for the ultimate transfer of quantum energy and nonlocal quantum correlation. We show that the enhancement of the probability for a single-excitation energy transfer greatly benefits from the energy detuning, photon-number transition, classicality of the field, and the time-dependent coupling effect. We also find that the entanglement between the donor and acceptor is very sensitive to the physical parameters and it can be generated during the coherent energy transfer.
AC Voltage Control of DC/DC Converters Based on Modular Multilevel Converters in Multi-Terminal High-Voltage Direct Current Transmission Systems
Authors: Li Rui , Fletcher John
Published: December 2016

The AC voltage control of a DC/DC converter based on the modular multilevel converter (MMC) is considered under normal operation and during a local DC fault. By actively setting the AC voltage according to the two DC voltages of the DC/DC converter, the modulation index can be near unity, and the DC voltage is effectively utilized to output higher AC voltage. This significantly decreases submodule (SM) capacitance and conduction losses of the DC/DC converter, yielding reduced capital cost, volume, and higher efficiency. Additionally, the AC voltage is limited in the controllable range of both the MMCs in the DC/DC converter; thus, over-modulation and uncontrolled currents are actively avoided. The AC voltage control of the DC/DC converter during local DC faults, i.e., standby operation, is also proposed, where only the MMC connected on the faulty cable is blocked, while the other MMC remains operational with zero AC voltage output. Thus, the capacitor voltages can be regulated at the rated value and the decrease of the SM capacitor voltages after the blocking of the DC/DC converter is avoided. Moreover, the fault can still be isolated as quickly as the conventional approach, where both MMCs are blocked and the DC/DC converter is not exposed to the risk of overcurrent. The proposed AC voltage control strategy is assessed in a three-terminal high-voltage direct current (HVDC) system incorporating a DC/DC converter, and the simulation results confirm its feasibility.
High Contributions of Secondary Inorganic Aerosols to PM2.5 under Polluted Levels at a Regional Station in Northern China
Authors: Li Yang , Tao Jun , Zhang Leiming , Jia Xiaofang , Wu Yunfei
Published: December 2016

Daily PM2.5 samples were collected at Shangdianzi (SDZ) regional site in Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH) region in 2015. Samples were subject to chemical analysis for organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC), and major water-soluble inorganic ions. The annual average PM2.5 mass concentration was 53 ± 36 μg·m−3 with the highest seasonal average concentration in spring and the lowest in summer. Water-soluble inorganic ions and carbonaceous aerosols accounted for 34% ± 15% and 33% ± 9%, respectively, of PM2.5 mass on annual average. The excellent, good, lightly polluted, moderately polluted, and heavily polluted days based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) of PM2.5 accounted for 40%, 42%, 11%, 4%, and 3%, respectively, of the year. The sum of the average concentration of sulfate, nitrate, and ammonium (SNA) increased from 4.2 ± 2.9 μg·m−3 during excellent days to 85.9 ± 22.4 μg·m−3 during heavily polluted days, and their contributions to PM2.5 increased from 15% ± 8% to 49% ± 10% accordingly. In contrast, the average concentration of carbonaceous aerosols increased from 9.2 ± 2.8 μg·m−3 to 51.2 ± 14.1 μg·m−3, and their contributions to PM2.5 decreased from 34% ± 6% to 29% ± 7%. Potential source contribution function (PSCF) analysis revealed that the major sources for high PM2.5 and its dominant chemical components were within the area mainly covering Shandong, Henan, and Hebei provinces. Regional pollutant transport from Shanxi province and Inner Mongolia autonomous region located in the west direction of SDZ was also important during the heating season.
Latino and Non-Latino Perceptions of the Air Quality in California’s San Joaquin Valley
Authors: Brown Paul , Cameron Linda , Cisneros Ricardo , Cox Rachel , Gaab Erin , Gonzalez Mariaelena , Ramondt Steven , Song Anna
Published: December 2016

The San Joaquin Valley (SJV) of California has poor air quality, high rates of asthma, and high rates of obesity. Informational campaigns aimed at increasing awareness of the health impacts of poor air quality and promoting behavior change need to be tailored to the specific target audiences. The study examined perceptions of air quality, perceived health impacts, and methods of accessing information about air quality between Latinos and other groups in the SJV. Residents of the SJV (n = 744) where surveyed via one of three methods: community organizations (256), public locations (251), and an internet panel (237). The results suggest that people perceive the air quality in their region to be generally unhealthy, particularly for sensitive groups. The air quality is more likely to be reported as being unhealthy by people with health problems and less unhealthy by Latinos and people who report regularly exercising. Latinos are more likely to report working outdoors regularly, but also more likely to report being able to reduce their exposure if the air quality is unhealthy. The results report differences in informational sources about air quality, suggesting that informational campaigns should target high risk groups using a variety of media.
No Ifs, No Butts: Compliance with Smoking Cessation in Secondary Care Guidance (NICE PH48) by Providers of Cancer Therapies (Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy) in the UK
Authors: Hutton Daniel , Gee Ivan , McGee Ciara , Mellor Rebecca
Published: December 2016

Background: Legislation preventing smoking in public places was introduced in England in July 2007. Since then, smoke-free policies have been extended to the majority of hospitals including those providing cancer therapies. Whilst studies have been conducted on the impact and effectiveness of hospital smoke-free policy in the UK and other countries, there have not been any studies with a focus on cancer care providers. Cancer patients are a priority group for smoking cessation and support and this study aimed to examine implementation of the National Institute Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance (PH48) in acute cancer care trusts in the UK. Methods: Participants were recruited from UK radiotherapy and chemotherapy departments (total 80 sites, 65 organisations) and asked to complete a 15 min online questionnaire exploring the implementation of NICE guidance at their hospital site. Results: Considerable variability in implementation of the NICE guidance was observed. A total of 79.1% trusts were smoke-free in theory; however, only 18.6% were described as smoke-free in practice. Areas of improvement were identified in information and support for patients and staff including in Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) provision, staff training and clarity on e-cigarette policies. Conclusions: While some trusts have effective smoke-free policies and provide valuable cessation support services for patients, improvements are required to ensure that all sites fully adopt the NICE guidance.
Problem Formulation in Knowledge Discovery via Data Analytics (KDDA) for Environmental Risk Management
Authors: Li Yan , Thomas Manoj , Osei-Bryson Kweku-Muata , Levy Jason
Published: December 2016

With the growing popularity of data analytics and data science in the field of environmental risk management, a formalized Knowledge Discovery via Data Analytics (KDDA) process that incorporates all applicable analytical techniques for a specific environmental risk management problem is essential. In this emerging field, there is limited research dealing with the use of decision support to elicit environmental risk management (ERM) objectives and identify analytical goals from ERM decision makers. In this paper, we address problem formulation in the ERM understanding phase of the KDDA process. We build a DM3 ontology to capture ERM objectives and to inference analytical goals and associated analytical techniques. A framework to assist decision making in the problem formulation process is developed. It is shown how the ontology-based knowledge system can provide structured guidance to retrieve relevant knowledge during problem formulation. The importance of not only operationalizing the KDDA approach in a real-world environment but also evaluating the effectiveness of the proposed procedure is emphasized. We demonstrate how ontology inferencing may be used to discover analytical goals and techniques by conceptualizing Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs) exposure shifts based on a multilevel analysis of the level of urbanization (and related economic activity) and the degree of Socio-Economic Deprivation (SED) at the local neighborhood level. The HAPs case highlights not only the role of complexity in problem formulation but also the need for integrating data from multiple sources and the importance of employing appropriate KDDA modeling techniques. Challenges and opportunities for KDDA are summarized with an emphasis on environmental risk management and HAPs.
Validating Intravascular Imaging with Serial Optical Coherence Tomography and Confocal Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Tardif Pier-Luc , Bertrand Marie-Jeanne , Abran Maxime , Castonguay Alexandre , Lefebvre Joël , Stähli Barbara , Merlet Nolwenn , Mihalache-Avram Teodora , Geoffroy Pascale , Mecteau Mélanie , Busseuil David , Ni Feng , Abulrob Abedelnasser , Rhéaume Éric , L’Allier Philippe , Tardif Jean-Claude , Lesage Frédéric
Published: December 2016

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases are characterized by the formation of a plaque in the arterial wall. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) provides high-resolution images allowing delineation of atherosclerotic plaques. When combined with near infrared fluorescence (NIRF), the plaque can also be studied at a molecular level with a large variety of biomarkers. In this work, we present a system enabling automated volumetric histology imaging of excised aortas that can spatially correlate results with combined IVUS/NIRF imaging of lipid-rich atheroma in cholesterol-fed rabbits. Pullbacks in the rabbit aortas were performed with a dual modality IVUS/NIRF catheter developed by our group. Ex vivo three-dimensional (3D) histology was performed combining optical coherence tomography (OCT) and confocal fluorescence microscopy, providing high-resolution anatomical and molecular information, respectively, to validate in vivo findings. The microscope was combined with a serial slicer allowing for the imaging of the whole vessel automatically. Colocalization of in vivo and ex vivo results is demonstrated. Slices can then be recovered to be tested in conventional histology.