bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glass Ceiling- A Silent Barrier for Women in Highly Advanced and Humanistic Society
Authors: Noronha Sonia Delrose , Aithal P. S.
Published: December 2016

Indian society in the present scenario is considered to be highly competitive, advanced and techno-friendly enhancing the talents and career growth of both men and women. This educated society has also created awareness for gender equity. Moreover, this advancement has also provided ample opportunities for women to occupy equal positions as men. Since many decades women have made their presence felt in almost all positions in different organizations. Though we find enough number of women occupying many positions it is doubtful about women occupying the executive positions where decision making plays a major role. Along with work life balance and traditions, there is an invisible barrier that acts as a challenge for women influencing their advancement. One can silently observe a glass ceiling creating a barrier for women to optimize their capacities to the fullest. Here arises the need to investigate the presence of the invisible glass ceiling for women and its impact on their career advancement. For the development of a nation, politics plays a vital role. Politicians being the representatives of the people help people solve their problems by making policies and amend the existing laws. Here the participation of women as public servants is equally important. This study hence tries to analyze if there exist any glass ceiling in Indian political scenario and also tries to find the conditions required for women to obtain such positions. The study will be exploratory in nature based on a comparative analysis of the data gathered from various online sources.
Immunolocalization of Endogenous Indole-3-Acetic Acid and Abscisic Acid in the Shoot Internodes of Fargesia yunnanensis Bamboo during Development
Authors: Wang Shuguang , Ma Yongpeng , Wan Chengbin , Hse Chungyun , Shupe Todd F. , Wang Yujun , Wang Changming
Published: December 2016

The Bambusoideae subfamily includes the fastest-growing plants worldwide, as a consequence of fast internode elongation. However, few studies have evaluated the temporal and spatial distribution of endogenous hormones during internode elongation. In this paper, endogenous indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and abscisic acid (ABA) were detected in different developmental internodes during shoot elongation by immunolocalization. Immunohistochemistry showed that IAA was mainly present in the shoot apex, leaf sheath primordia, parenchymal cells, and vascular tissues. During internode elongation and maturation, the IAA signals decreased significantly and then increased slightly, with the weakest signals observed in the rapidly elongating internode. Based on immunogold localization, most IAA signals were detected in the cytoplasm and nuclei of both parenchymal and fiber cells, and few signals were detected in cell walls in the unelongated and elongating internodes. After the completion of internode elongation, additional IAA signals were detected in the secondary walls of both parenchymal and fiber cells. Immunohistochemical localization of ABA showed that ABA signals decreased with internode elongation and maturation, with the weakest signal observed in the internodes of 3-month-old shoots. In addition, few ABA signals were detected in the shoot apex. The strongest IAA and ABA signals in unelongated internodes suggested that both hormones participated in the mediation of internode differentiation but not in the rapid elongation. Moreover, IAA was involved in secondary cell wall deposition.
Flower Color Diversity Revealed by Differential Expression of Flavonoid Biosynthetic Genes in Sacred Lotus
Authors: Wang Yanjie , Chen Yeqing , Yuan Man , Xue Zeyun , Jin Qijiang , Xu Yingchun
Published: December 2016

Sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is an important aquatic ornamental plant which contains several diverse flower colors, but the underlying mechanisms of its flower coloration remain unclear. In this study, seven complementary DNA (cDNA) clones of genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis, including chalcone synthase (CHS), chalcone isomerase (CHI), flavanone 3-hydroxylase (F3H), flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase (F3′H), flavonoid 3′,5′-hydroxylase (F3′5′H), dihydroflavonol 4-reductase (DFR), and anthocyanidin synthase (ANS), were isolated and characterized. Moreover, expression patterns of these seven genes and pigment profiles were investigated across four N. nucifera cultivars with different flower colors: Zhongguohongbeijing [ZGH (red)], Xinghuafen [XHF (pink)], Molingqiuse [MLQS (yellow)], and Zhufengcuiying [ZFCY (white)]. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis showed that during flower development, transcripts of early biosynthetic genes (NnCHS, NnCHI, and NnF3H) were abundant at the early stage; noticeably, highest expression of NnCHI in MLQS probably induced abundant anthoxanthin synthesis and displayed yellow. Expression of late biosynthetic genes, especially NnDFR and NnANS, was generally consistent with change patterns of anthocyanins in ZGH and XHF, but NnF3′H was barely detectable in the pink cultivars. Meanwhile, negligible expression of NnDFR and NnANS was detected in MLQS and ZFCY, respectively, which blocked their colored anthocyanin biosynthesis. Spatial expression analysis revealed that most flavonoid biosynthetic genes were highly expressed in floral tissues, rather than leaves. These results suggest that in N. nucifera cultivars with different flower colors, flavonoid biosynthesis is differentially regulated by the expression of these flavonoid biosynthetic genes, among which, NnCHI, NnF3′H, NnDFR, and NnANS are supposed to be critical for pigment accumulation, and therefore, affect different flower coloration.
Simple Sequence Repeat Markers Reveal Genetic Diversity Within and among Landrace Collections of Citron and Dessert Watermelon from South Africa
Authors: Mashilo Jacob , Shimelis Hussein , Odindo Alfred , Amelework Beyene
Published: December 2016

Genetic diversity analysis is fundamental for effective breeding and genetic conservation. The objective of this study was to determine the genetic diversity present among dessert watermelon (Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus) and citron watermelon (C. lanatus var. citroides) landraces widely grown in South Africa and to select genetically diverse and complimentary genotypes for strategic breeding or conservation. Thirty-one dessert watermelon and 34 citron watermelon landraces were genotyped using 10 polymorphic simple sequence repeat markers. The number of alleles detected per marker ranged from 2 to 23 alleles, with a mean of 13.5 alleles. A total of 135 putative alleles were amplified from sampled watermelon populations. Number of effective alleles ranged from 1.99 to 10.88 alleles with a mean of 5.83 alleles. The mean observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.50 and 0.79, respectively. The mean polymorphic information content was 0.79. Cluster and principal coordinate analyses grouped the two watermelon populations into two separate clusters. The two populations were genetically differentiated with low gene flow, suggesting the presence of high genetic differences between the two populations. Overall, the study established the existence of considerable genetic diversity among South African grown dessert and citron watermelon landraces. Unique dessert watermelon landraces such as SWM-39, SWM-24, SWM-01, SWM-40, SWM-18, SWM-36, and SWM-26; and citron watermelon genotypes including WWM-24, WWM-37, WWM-28, WWM-34, WWM-02, WWM-22, WWM-50, and WWM-36 were selected based on their high dissimilarity index. These could be useful for breeding and systematic conservation.
Leaf and Root Growth, Carbon and Nitrogen Contents, and Gene Expression of Perennial Ryegrass to Different Nitrogen Supplies
Authors: Jiang Yiwei , Li Yaoshen , Nie Gang , Liu Huifen
Published: December 2016

Nitrogen greatly impacts plant growth and development. The objective of this study was to characterize growth, nitrogen use, and gene expression of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) in response to increasing nitrogen supplies. Perennial ryegrass (cv. Inspire) was grown in sand culture and irrigated with a half-Hoagland solution amended with 0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 mm nitrogen. Leaf tissues were harvested at 10 days (first cutting) and 20 days (second cutting) and roots were harvested at 20 days. The relatively higher N supply (2.0–7.5 mm) resulted in a larger amount of leaf fresh and dry weight but lower root fresh and dry weight, especially for the second cutting. Root:leaf ratio was higher under low N, but lower under the high N treatment. Leaf N content was relatively higher under 2.5, 5, and 7.5 mm N than under the other three treatments, while 2.5 mm N exhibited relatively higher leaf carbon content for both cuttings. Leaf C:N ratio and leaf nitrogen use efficiency (LNUE) decreased with increasing N supplies for the first cutting but were higher under low N (0–1.0 mm) for both cuttings. Leaf C:N ratio and LNUE did not differ among low N and LNUE also remained unchanged among high N for the second cutting. Root N content increased, but the root C:N ratio and root N use efficiency (RNUE) decreased with increasing N supplies, especially under 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 mm N. Low (0.5 mm), moderate (2.5 mm), and high (7.5 mm) N were chosen to examine the expression level of NR encoding nitrate reductase and GS1b encoding glutamine synthetase. Treatment of 0.5 mm N had higher expression levels of leaf NR than other two treatments for both cuttings and a higher level of leaf GS for the second cutting. Expression of NR in the roots did not vary among treatments but the expression of GS increased under 2.5 and 7.5 mm, compared with the 0.5 mm N. Differential leaf and root growth and physiological responses to low N (0 to 1 mm) and to moderate to high N (2.5 to 7.5 mm) could be used for examining the natural variation of N use in diverse perennial ryegrass populations.
A Genetic Locus Associated with Resistance to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. niveum Race 2 in Citrullus lanatus-type Watermelon
Authors: Meru Geoffrey , McGregor Cecilia E.
Published: December 2016

Fusarium wilt of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. niveum (FON), is a devastating soil-borne disease limiting watermelon production across the world. Although many watermelon cultivars have been bred for resistance to FON races 0 and 1, the only released cultivars that are resistant to FON 2 are nonharvested pollenizers. The lack of FON 2–resistant edible cultivars is thought to be associated with linkage drag and/or preferential inheritance patterns observed when crossing the resistant, wild source (Citrullus amarus), with edible watermelon. A potential way to overcome these obstacles is to use a resistant C. lanatus as the source of resistance and to develop molecular markers to increase the efficiency of selection. Here we describe the identification of a quantitative trait locus (QTL) associated with FON 2 resistance in watermelon. The genotyping by sequencing (GBS) platform was used to generate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in an F2 population (n = 178) developed from a cross between UGA147 (resistant) and ‘Charleston Gray’ (susceptible). Five hundred and one SNPs were placed on the watermelon physical map and used in the mapping of QTL. F3 lines were phenotyped for resistance to FON 2 in the greenhouse. An intermediate QTL associated with resistance to FON 2 was identified on chromosome 11 (Qfon11). This QTL is a potential target for marker-assisted selection (MAS) for FON 2 resistance in watermelon.
IMPLICAÇÕES DO USO DE ÁLCOOL NO EXERCÍCIO DAS FUNÇÕES PARENTAIS NA PERSPECTIVA DO FILHO ADOLESCENTE
Authors: Albuquerque Flávia Michelle Pereira , Heimerdinger Vivian Steffen , Rodrigues Edenilson Freitas
Published: December 2016

O abuso de álcool é um problema de saúde pública considerado pela área da psicologia como um sintoma social. Compreender como se estabelece a função parental para filhos adolescentes de cuidadores alcoolistas foi o objetivo desta pesquisa. Para isso foram entrevistados dezesseis adolescentes cujos responsáveis estavam cadastrados no serviço municipal de referência ao álcool e drogas. Utilizou-se uma entrevista semiestruturada realizada na residência dos jovens. A partir da análise dos dados organizou-se a discussão em três dimensões: representação mental sobre alcoolismo, percepção sobre alcoolismo parental e impacto do alcoolismo na relação parental. Destas dimensões surgiram categorias de ordenamento do discurso dos sujeitos. Concluiu-se que os adolescentes podem lidar com o alcoolismo parental enquanto uma conduta normal ou patológica, dependendo principalmente do acesso a informação e da influência do meio onde estão inseridos. Os adolescentes estabelecem uma relação conflituosa com o familiar alcoolista ao perceberem este como instável, alguém que incomoda ou que pode ser tratado com indiferença porque não se pode contar.  Por fim, verificou-se que esses jovens devido à falta de referência, do qual o alcoolismo é o principal fator, vivenciam com sofrimento psíquico maior a crise da adolescência uma vez que suas possibilidades de transição para a vida adulta estão amarradas a um discurso sem perspectivas aprendido na convivência familiar com o abuso de álcool.
FATORES DE RISCO PARA TENTATIVA DE SUICÍDIO: PRODUÇÃO DE CONHECIMENTO NO BRASIL
Authors: Félix Tamires Alexandre , Oliveira Eliany Nazaré , Lopes Marcos Venicios De Oliveira , Parente José Reginaldo Feijão , Dias Maria Socorro De Araújo , Moreira Roberta Magda Martins
Published: December 2016

O suicídio cursa desde a motivação até o óbito, sendo a Tentativa de Suicídio (TS) o momento mais propício a intervenções em saúde. O artigo tem como objetivo evidenciar os fatores de risco para a TS revisando as produções publicadas no Brasil em 10 anos. Identificou-se prevalência de TS em mulheres, jovens, que vivem sozinhos, desempregados e com baixa escolaridade fortemente relacionada a um contexto psicossocial de adoecimento e ao uso de drogas psicoativas. Entre os fatores de risco estão a falta de apoio social e espiritual, restrição de lazer e eventos estressantes. Os resultados indicam que a prevenção do suicídio deve ser mais valorizada do que o diagnóstico e o tratamento.
VANTAGENS DA AMAMENTAÇÃO E ALTERAÇÕES NO ESTILO DE VIDA DA LACTANTE
Authors: Dias Ernandes Gonçalves , Freitas Ana Lúcia Santana Araújo , Martins Héllen Christine Silva Cunha , Martins Kamila Pinto , Silveira Alves Janine Cinara
Published: December 2016

Este estudo teve como objetivo verificar o conhecimento sobre as vantagens da amamentação e as alterações ocorridas no estilo de vida da lactante em função da amamentação. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo e exploratório de natureza quanti-qualitativa, realizado com 12 lactantes na Unidade de Saúde Durval José de Oliveira. Os dados foram coletados no período de março a abril de 2014 através de uma entrevista aplicada na residência da lactante. Os resultados revelaram que 41,7%±1,8 tinham idade entre 26 a 30 anos, 83,3%±5,7 casadas, 50%±1,9 Do lar, 50%±2 tinham 2º grau completo, 66,7%±2,8 tiveram gestações prévias, 75% não desmamaram seu bebê precocemente mesmo enfrentando alterações em seu estilo de vida e/ou amamentando de forma mista. As lactantes reconhecem a proteção contra doenças como vantagem do aleitamento materno tanto para a criança como para si. As alterações no estilo de vida foram mudanças no padrão de sono, adaptações no trabalho e afazeres domésticos para atender às necessidades da criança. Concluiu-se que as lactantes apesar de terem conhecimentos limitados quanto às vantagens da amamentação e apresentarem alterações em seu estilo de vida, estas ocorrências não impediram a prática da amamentação.
Estructura trófica de los invertebrados acuáticos asociados a Egeria densa (Planch. 1849) en el lago de Tota (Boyacá-Colombia)
Authors: Pedroza-Ramos Adriana , Caraballo Pedro , Aranguren-Riaño Nelson
Published: December 2016

Una forma fundamental y efectiva de visualizar los patrones y propiedades dinámicas de una comunidad, es a través de las redes tróficas, las cuales son entendidas como el mapa de las interrelaciones entre la estructura de las comunidades con los procesos que ocurren dentro del ecosistema. En este estudio se describe una red trófica acuática, conformada por invertebrados acuáticos, detritus y perifiton, asociada con la planta Egeria densa. Se realizaron muestreos en periodos de transición y lluvias, en cuatro estaciones en la zona litoral del Lago de Tota. Por punto se recolectaron tres muestras de 300 g de material vegetal cada uno. Se midieron in situ los siguientes parámetros: conductividad eléctrica, pH, oxígeno disuelto y temperatura. Por medio de información bibliográfica y en algunos casos mediante observación, se asignaron los hábitos alimenticios. Finalmente, se desarrolló un modelo de trama trófica tipo estático. Se registraron 112866 individuos distribuidos en 26 taxones que fueron clasificados según sus hábitos alimenticios en: dos trofoespecies tope, 16 intermedias y dos basales. Esta red trófica presentó una conectancia media de 0,13 y una densidad de uniones de 2,95. En conjunto, estos resultados muestran a E. densa como generadora de detritus y sustrato de perifiton, consideradas en el modelo como trofoespecies basales que sustentan la comunidad. Además de la presencia de 10 trofoespecies consumidoras primarias que generan alta redundancia ecológica y a la vez garantizan el flujo de recursos hacia niveles tróficos superiores.
Dieta de Pomacea canaliculata (Gastropoda: Ampullariidae) en su hábitat natural basada en análisis de contenidos digestivos e isótopos estables
Authors: López-van Oosterom Maria Vanesa , Ocon Carolina Silvia , Ferreira Ana Clara , Rodrigues-Capitulo Alberto
Published: December 2016

Pomacea canaliculata is native to Rio de la Plata basin, and it is invasive in most of South and Southeast Asia after accidental introduction during unsuccessful attempts to establish commercial aquaculture of this species, and being present, the number one pest of rice crops in the region. Investigations in its native habitat are still needed because fundamental issues of its trophic ecology remain unknown. The aim of this research was to study the diet of P. canaliculata in its natural habitat through gut content techniques and stable isotopes of 13C and 15N. Biological samples were taken from November 2009 to December 2010 in Carnaval stream, a characteristic Pampean stream. Samples for stable isotopes of 13C and 15N using of a mixing model were collected in November 2011. The trophic strategy diagram evinced a generalist diet with high consumption of detritus followed by the vascular plants and algae. The mixing model results indicated that the relative contribution to the diet was similar for all basal resources: fine and coarse particulate organic matter, epipelon and aquatic macrophytes (approximately 40 %). These results evidenced a strong dietary plasticity for the species.
Identificación del estado de alimentación del camarón Litopenaeus vannamei en cultivo mediante el uso de la regresión logística
Authors: Valdelamar-Villegas Juan Carlos
Published: December 2016

El manejo de la alimentación de los camarones en estanques artificiales es uno de los aspectos de mayor importancia en el cultivo de los mismos, ya que esto puede representar cerca del 40 % de los costos de operación del cultivo, debido a ello varios autores han orientado sus investigaciones en la optimización de este aspecto. El presente trabajo tuvo como propósito presentar el modelo de regresión logística apropiado para predecir el comportamiento de la variable dicotómica, estado de alimentación de los camarones (sobrealimentados = 1 y no sobrealimentados = 0), a partir de las variables independientes (cualitativa dicotómica: contenido intestinal con bentos o vacío (CIBV = 1) y contenido intestinal con alimento (CIA = 0), y la variable cuantitativa crecimiento semanal (CS). Los resultados muestran que el modelo logístico es el que mejor explica el comportamiento de los datos, además que las variables, crecimiento semanal y contenido intestinal de bentos o vacío, resultan ser las de mayor significancia para éste. Se discuten los resultados encontrados en el presente trabajo.
Relationship Among Body Image, Anthropometric Parameters and Mental Health in Physical Education Students
Authors: Legey Sandro , Lamego Murilo Khede , Lattari Eduardo , Campos Carlos , Paes Flávia , Sancassiani Federica , Mura Gioia , Carta Mauro Giovanni , Rocha Nuno Barbosa F. , Nardi Antônio Egídio , José de Oliveira Aldair , Neto Geraldo Maranhão , Murillo-Rodriguez Eric , Arias-Carrión Oscar , Budde Henning , Machado Sergio
Published: December 2016

Background

The prevalence of body image dissatisfaction (BID) is currently high. Given that psychological well-being is associated with the body measurements imposed by esthetic standards, BID is an important risk factor for mental disorders.

Objective

Identify the prevalence of BID, and compare anthropometric and mental health parameters between individuals satisfied and dissatisfied with their body image.

Method

A total of 140 university students completed the silhouette scale to screen for BID. Anthropometric measures, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and body fat percentage (BFP) were used. To investigate mental health, The State-Trait Anxiety Inventories (STAI-S and STAI-T), Profile of Mood States (POMS) scale and Quality of Life (QOL-36) questionnaire were used to investigate mental health. The Student’s t-test was applied to compare anthropometric and mental health parameters.

Results

67.1% of university students exhibited BID. There was a significant difference (p = 0.041) in BF and WC (p = 0.048) between dissatisfied and satisfied individuals. With respect to mood states, significant differences were observed for anger (p = 0.014), depression (p = 0.011), hostility (p = 0.006), fatigue (p = 0.013), mental confusion (p = 0.021) and total mood disturbance (TMD) (p = 0.001). The mental aspect of QOL was significantly higher (p = 0.001) in satisfied university students compared to their dissatisfied counterparts.

Conclusion

BID was high and it seems to be influenced by anthropometric measures related to the amount and distribution of body fat. This dissatisfaction may have a negative effect on the quality of life and mood state of young adults.
Cleaning Effectiveness of a Reciprocating Single-file and a Conventional Rotary Instrumentation System
Authors: de Carvalho Fredson Marcio Acris , Gonçalves Leonardo Cantanhede de Oliveira , Marques André Augusto Franco , Alves Vanessa , Bueno Carlos Eduardo da Silveira , De Martin Alexandre Sigrist
Published: December 2016

Objective:

To compare cleaning effectiveness by histological analysis of a reciprocating single-file system with ProTaper rotary instruments during the preparation of curved root canals in extracted teeth.

Methods:

A total of 40 root canals with curvatures ranging between 20 - 40 degrees were divided into two groups of 20 canals. Canals were prepared to the following apical sizes: Reciproc size 25 (n=20); ProTaper: F2 (n=20). The normal distribution of data was tested by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and the values obtained for the test (Mann-Whitney U test,P< .05) were statistically analyzed using the GraphPad InStat for the Mac OS software (GraphPad Software, La Jolla, CA, USA).

Results:

There were no significant differences in remaining debris (P > .05) between the two groups.

Conclusion:

The application of reciprocating motion during instrumentation did not result in increased debris when compared with continuous rotation motion, even in the apical part of curved canals. Both instruments resulted in debris in the canal lumen, irrespective of the movement kinematics applied.
The Use of Smartphone Applications in Medical Education
Authors: Snashall E. , Hindocha S.
Published: December 2016

Introduction:

With the rise of computer technology, there has seen a shift in the delivery of medical education towards e-learning. Specifically, there has been increased use smartphone technology and applications (app) use.

Aim:

The aim of this article is to assess the use of medical apps amongst medical students.

Results:

89% of respondents owned a smart device. Of these, 98% used Apps. Medical applications were used in 82% of the “App user” population. Apps were used for medical learning purposes in 85% of this population, of which 93% found them useful. If a more comprehensive medical learning application were to be available, 97% of responders would consider using it.

Conclusion:

The use of smart devices and medical apps is prevalent amongst medical students and will continue to rise in the future. Medical apps may be a very important adjunct in medical education however the evidence remains limited. To keep up with technological advances and meet the learning needs of medical students both now and in the future, more research is required to assess and address these needs.
Teaching Evidence Based Medicine in Surgical Education; the Challenges and Techniques in Training
Authors: Griffin M , Jordan DJ , El Gawad A
Published: December 2016

Evidence Based Medicine integrates clinical expertise, best available clinical evidence, as well as patient’s values and preferences to manage the care of patients. Surgeons have traditionally performed surgery according to their mentor teachings, these techniques being passed down through several generations. Current surgeon culture must evolve to integrate EBM into their clinical practice. The knowledge and skills required for searching and appraising critical literature needs to be taught to enable surgeons to implement it effectively. Evidence based surgery (EBS) will encourage surgeons to apply the best up-to-date knowledge to find the most effective surgical management plan for their patients. Several methods of teaching EBS to surgical trainees have shown to be effective including workshops, small group discussions, lecture style teaching and courses involving a combination of techniques. Journal clubs have gained in popularity and provided excellent teaching environments for surgeons to learn critical appraisal. Recently EBM has been introduced into the undergraduate programme to provide young medical practitioners with a strong foundation in EBM competency, and a positive attitude towards applying EBM to clinical practice. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the principles of EBM and the success and challenges of teaching methods to deliver EBM for the surgical field.
Publishing in the Surgical Arena; Why, How and Where?
Authors: Mabvuure NT , Griffin M , Hindocha S , Jordan DJ
Published: December 2016

Publication of peer-reviewed articles in journals remains the preferred means of communicating surgical and scientific advancements. Learning to publish is an important skill to gain for surgeons preparing for evidence based practice. Publications may also be used as evidence of academic pursuit and achievement during selection for surgical training posts. Bar a few courses, formal training in publishing is limited for surgeons outwith intercalated undergraduate and higher research degrees. This review explains the rational for publishing, as well as offering practical advice on various types of articles, selecting destination journal and maximising the visibility of published articles. We aim to guide surgeons through the process of publication. This review is aimed at a pan-subspecialty audience. However, examples relating to plastic surgery have been used to reflect the authors’ collective experience.
A Simulation Study to Evaluate Survey Designs and Assessment Models for Estimation of Dungeness Crab (Cancer magister) Softshell Periods
Authors: Zhang Zane , Dunham Jason S.
Published: December 2016

Softshell Dungeness Crabs have inferior meat quality and are vulnerable to handling by harvesters; therefore, knowing when softshell periods occur is important for managing Dungeness Crab fisheries. A computer simulation was used to study the effectiveness of several survey designs and statistical models for estimating softshell periods which normally would be construed from crab shell condition data obtained from trap surveys. Survey designs varied in the number of years of data collection (1, 3, 5 or 10 years) and by the number and arrangement of sampling events per year. Three statistical models, including standardized catch-per-unit-effort (SCPUE), hierarchical, and generalized additive, were tested using catch-per-unit-effort data (CPUEs) or CPUE- transformed data. CPUEs were standardised by dividing CPUE estimates by the maximum CPUE obtained in the sample year, and then transformed using the complementary log-log function. In the hierarchical model, CPUEs were modelled using a lognormal distribution, assuming the expected logarithms of CPUEs are a quadratic function of days plus a random normal error. CPUE-transformed data were modelled using a normal distribution, assuming expected values are a quadratic function of days in the SCPUE model or a spline smooth function of days in the generalized additive model. Results suggest the best survey design requires a relatively high number (6 or 11) of sampling events during several key consecutive months which contain the softshell period, and fewer sampling events during those months when softshell crab abundance is low. A minimum 3 years of data collection is required to produce reliable outputs. The hierarchical model performs best, slightly better than the SCPUE model. Use of the generalized additive model is not recommended.
Road Safety Management ‒ The Need for a Systematic Approach
Authors: Varhelyi Andras
Published: December 2016

In order to achieve significant improvements in road safety at the national level, there is a need for a systematic approach to road safety management with clear responsibilities and accountability. In this paper – after a review of the literature on guidelines, recommendations and research findings – twelve essential elements of such a systematic approach are pointed out, and corresponding relevant issues are discussed. These elements are: 1) Define the burden and nature of road casualties; 2) Gain commitment and support from decision makers; 3) Establish road safety policy; 4) Define institutional roles and responsibilities; 5) Identify road safety problems; 6) Set road safety targets; 7) Formulate a strategy and action plan; 8) Allocate responsibility for measures; 9) Ensure funding; 10) Apply measures with known effectiveness; 11) Monitor performance; and 12) Stimulate research and capacity building. The main conclusions are that: a) Monetary values of statistical life have to be established; b) The police register of accidents should be combined with the hospital register; c) Exposure data for all types of road users is necessary; d) The three-dimensional analysis of road safety problems should be employed; e) Safety performance indicators should be used; f) Only countermeasures with known effectiveness should be applied; g) Performance of countermeasures should be monitored on a yearly basis; and h) Commitment from decision makers is decisive!
Pequeños productores de maíz en el Caribe colombiano: estudio de sus atributos y prácticas agrícolas
Authors: Garrido-Rubiano María Fernanda , Martínez-Medrano Juan Carlos , Martínez-Bautista Humberto , Granados-Carvajal Rafael Evelio , Rendón-Medel Roberto
Published: December 2016

La agricultura familiar es la responsable de la mayor parte de la producción de los alimentos en América Latina. Sin embargo, es evidente que las innovaciones tecnológicas desarrolladas para mejorar la productividad del cultivo de maíz Zea mays L. (Poaceae) no son del todo utilizadas por los pequeños productores. Con el objetivo de evaluar los atributos sociales, económicos y ambientales de los pequeños productores de maíz en el Caribe colombiano, se aplicó una encuesta estructurada a 227 productores de los departamentos de Atlántico y Magdalena, que fueron seleccionados mediante un esquema de muestreo estratificado. La información resultante fue estudiada con un modelo de regresión Poissontruncado en cero mediante el paquete estadístico stata®. Estos resultados permitieron inferir que para el departamento del Atlántico, los indicadores de edad, educación, índice de iniciativa, tenencia de la tierra, uso de maquinaria y apoyo institucional presentaron significancia estadística (p<0,10); mientras que, para el departamento del Magdalena, los indicadores de índice de iniciativa, educación, tenencia de la tierra, capacidad de asociación, apoyo institucional y régimen hídrico presentaron significación estadística (p<0,10), en relación con el número de prácticas empleadas. Se concluye que la innovación resulta de un proceso complejo en el que influyen factores internos (del propio innovador) y externos (del contexto cultural e institucional).
Reconversión del sistema regional de producción de semilla de caña para la agroindustria panelera en Boyacá y Santander
Authors: Murcia-Pardo Magda Liliana , Ramírez-Durán Julio
Published: December 2016

En Colombia, la caña de azúcar Saccharum officinarum L. (Poaceae) es cultivada en 474.559 hectáreas, de las cuales 218.000 están dedicadas a la producción de azúcar y etanol y 266.559 a la producción de panela (azúcar no centrifugada). La hoya del río Suárez, en los departamentos de Boyacá y Santander, es la principal zona productora de panela de Colombia, con aproximadamente 42.701 hectáreas. Al igual que las demás regiones, esta no cuenta con un sistema de producción de caña semilla que asegure la calidad fitosanitaria y la pureza varietal que requiere el subsector, lo cual genera diseminación de plagas y enfermedades que limitan permanentemente los rendimientos. El objetivo de este trabajo fue reactivar el sistema de producción local de caña semilla en la hoya del río Suárez y para tal fin se estableció (en el marco del Plan Nacional de Semilla) el proceso de obtención de plantas germinadas mediante la extracción de yemas. Este procedimiento fue desarrollado en Cenicaña y llegó a convertirse en el sistema base para generar la caña semilla seleccionada de los productores semilleristas de la región. Durante 2014 se produjeron 200.000 plántulas que fueron entregadas a cinco asociaciones de pequeños y medianos productores. Se establecieron 15 ha de semilleros comerciales, para renovar cerca de 10.000 ha con las nuevas variedades de caña en los próximos cuatro años.
Degradación de la vitamina C en un producto de mango (Mangifera indica L.) y lactosuero
Authors: Mendoza-Corvis Fernando Alonso
Published: December 2016

Esta investigación buscó determinar la cinética de degradación de la vitamina C en un producto en polvo elaborado a base de pulpa de mango (Mangifera indica L. var. Hilacha) y lactosuero, con el fin de conocer el efecto de la temperatura en su conservación y además evaluar el comportamiento de los parámetros L*, a*, b* y la diferencia total del color (ΔE) en el producto. La vitamina C se determinó mediante el método aoac 967.21/90, con 2,6-diclorofenol indofenol; mientras que el color se cuantificó con un colorímetro Color Flex EZ marca HunterLab. La vitamina C exhibió mayor estabilidad en el producto en polvo almacenado a una temperatura de 4 °C, con una concentración (al término de la octava semana de muestreo) de 13,94 ± 1,2 mg/100 g por muestra, presentando una cinética de degradación de primer orden con valores de k1 de 0,014 y 0,041 mg/100 g/por semana para las temperaturas de 4 °C y 28 °C, respectivamente. Las mayores variaciones en el color se dieron en las muestras almacenadas a 28 °C, lo cual indica la influencia de la temperatura en el cambio de los componentes del producto. Los parámetros L*, a* y b* se vieron menos afectados a la temperatura de conservación de 4 °C y sus valores se ajustaron a un polinomio de segundo orden.
ANALISIS FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI PENDAPATAN USAHATANI SORGUM DI KABUPATEN GUNUNGKIDUL
Authors: Gupito Retno Wiji , Irham Irham , Waluyati Lestari Rahayu
Published: December 2016

The objective of this study are : (1) to understand about the contribution of sorghum farming income to total household income, (2) factors that influence sorghum farming income, and (3) income distribution level of sorghum farmers in Gunungkidul Regency.The basic methodused in this studyis descriptive-analytic. Sampling method used in this study is purposive sampling. The data weretaken from 30 farmers in study area. The data was collected by an interview,questionnaires and literatures study case.In order to learn the several factors influencing income level, isused multiple linear regression method.On the other hand,the level of total income distribution of sorghum farmerswas analylizedby using Gini Ratio and Lorenz Curve. The results of this study showsthat shorgum farming incomecontributes 2% for total farmers income. This study also show that sorghum farming does not cause inequality income in the study area. Several factorsthat affect sorghum farmers income positively are the land size and seed prices.
The effect on rivals when firms emerge from bankruptcy
Authors: Caton Gary , Donaldson Jeffrey , Goh Jeremy
Published: December 2016

Studies on the announcement effects of bankruptcy filings have found that when a firm files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection its shareholders suffer significant losses. A recent paper extends these findings by investigating the announcement effect on rival companies, while another examines the equity performance of firms emerging from bankruptcy. We combine these two lines of inquiry by examining the effect on rivals when a firm emerges from the protection of Chapter 11. We find both significant negative stock market returns and significant negative revisions in analysts’ earnings forecasts for rivals of successfully reorganized companies.
Corporate governance and performance of Nigerian listed firms: Further evidence
Authors: Adewuyi Adeolu O. , Olowookere Afolabi E.
Published: December 2016

This work, in an agency framework, adds to the few literatures on Nigeria by examining the impact of corporate governance on firm financial performance. Using a sample of 64 listed non-financial firms for the period 2002 to 2006, the study is able to capture the impact of the New Code of Corporate Governance released in 2003 on previous findings. Introductory investigations on the Nigerian capital market operations and regulations depict low, but improving, states. Empirically, Panel regression estimates show that board size, audit committee independence and ownership concentration aid performance. Higher independent directors and directors’ portion of shares unexpectedly dampen performance, while firms vesting both the roles of CEOs and chairs in the same individual perform better.
Corporate ownership structure and firm performance: Evidence from the Netherlands
Authors: Frijns Bart , Gilbert Aaron , Reumers Peter
Published: December 2016

This paper examines the relationship between corporate ownership structure and firm performance. For a sample of 100 Dutch firms listed on the Amsterdam stock exchange, we collect data on the shareholdings of the 5 largest shareholders and the total fraction of shares held by insiders. In addition, we collect information on the type of largest shareholder. Using a simultaneous equation model, estimated by three-stage least squares, to control for a potential endogeneity bias, we find a significant positive relationship between the holdings of the largest shareholder and firm performance. Likewise we find a significantly positive relationship for the stake held by insiders. Further testing provides some evidence that this relationship is nonlinear, i.e. at lower stakes insider ownership aligns management with shareholder, whereas at higher stakes entrenchment of management depresses performance. Splitting the sample into different types of owners provides some evidence that financials have a negative impact on performance, while other firms have a positive impact.
Governance through corporate social responsibility as a key organizational principle
Authors: Naude Marita
Published: December 2016

This article addresses Governance through Corporate Social Responsibility as a Key Organizational Principle. The notion of etic and emic depicts the definitional status of CSR. Etic represents the universal recognition of CSR and emic represents the unique implementation of CSR in an organization. This article proposes that organizations behave like complex adaptive systems with complex interactions needing socially responsible strategies. This article describes French based SUEZ’s emic responses to achieve responsible Governance in terms of CSR. A recipe or menu approach to Governance through CSR is inappropriate. SUEZ has acted as a model for recognizing etic and emic differentiation, using CSR as the Key Organizing Principle that allows adaptability in a socially responsible way and developed specific guidelines incorporating the needs of diverse stakeholders.
The relationship between director independence, reputation and management earnings forecasts
Authors: Chan Howard , Faff Robert , Mather Paul , Ramsay Alan
Published: December 2016

Informative management earnings forecasts potentially reduce information asymmetries in capital markets. We examine the relationship between corporate governance and management earnings forecasts. We extend the prior literature by examining the impact of independent director reputation on characteristics of management forecasts, by refining the previously used proxy for director independence and by distinguishing between routine and non-routine forecasts in the Australian governance environment. We find a significant positive relationship between the likelihood and frequency of firms issuing management earnings forecasts and our measures of audit committee independence and independent director reputation but not board independence. However, there is some evidence that director independence is related to more specific forecasts. These results are driven by routine earnings forecasts over which, it is argued, management have greater discretion.
Government ownership and performance: An analysis of listed companies in Malaysia
Authors: Ab Razaka Nazrul Hisyam , Ahmad Rubi , Ali Ahmed Huson Joher
Published: December 2016

The relationship between ownership structure and company performance has been issue of interest among academics, investors and policy makers because of key issue in understanding the effectiveness of alternative governance system in which government ownership serve as a control mechanism. Therefore, this paper examines the impact of an alternative ownership/control structure of corporate governance on firm performance among government linked companied (GLCs) and Non-GLC in Malaysia. It is believed that government ownership serve as a monitoring device that lead to better company performance after controlling company specific characteristics. We used Tobin‟s Q as market performance measure while ROA is to determine accounting performance measure. This study is based on a sample of 210 firms over a period from 1995 to 2005. We use panel based regression approach to determine the impact of ownership mechanism on firm‟s performance. Findings appear to suggest that there is a significant impact of government ownership on company performance after controlling for company specific characteristics such as company size, non-duality, leverage and growth. The finding is off significant for investors and policy marker which will serve as a guiding for better investment decision.
Legal advisors: Popularity versus economic performance in acquisitions
Authors: Krishnan C.N.V. , Laux Paul
Published: December 2016

Law firms provide extensive intermediation in corporate acquisitions, including negotiation, certification, and drafting of contracts and agreements. Using a broad sample of U.S. acquisition offers, we find that large-market-share law firms are regularly called upon to facilitate completion of large, legally-complex offers. Complex offers are often withdrawn but, controlling for complexity; large-share law firms are associated with enhanced deal completion. Further, we document that some law firms are consistently associated with deal completion over time, and that acquirers with good deal completion experience use fewer different law firms. Acquirers‟ risk-adjusted returns, though, are smaller around announcements of offers advised by large-share law firms. Post-offer long-run returns of the acquirers are also lower and often negative following offers advised by large-share law firms. We find no evidence that particular law firms are consistently associated over time with strong returns. Our conclusion is that large law firms enhance deal completion in difficult situations, consistent with the aims of acquirer management. However, we find no systematic evidence that these popular law firms act as “gatekeepers” in the sense of not wanting to be associated with value-destroying deals.
Preliminary evidence from monitoring activities by pension funds and investment managers and attitudes towards shareholder activism by pension funds
Authors: Lynn Theo , Mulgrew Mark
Published: December 2016

There is widespread support for the proposition that pension funds can, should and do play an important role in monitoring management in the companies in which they invest. This article examines whether Irish occupational pension funds and investment managers use voting, engagement and intervention as monitoring strategies in relation to investee companies. Furthermore, the article examines whether there are significant differences in attitudes between the two groups across key themes relating to shareholder activism by occupational pension funds in order to identify whether potential agency problems may exist in relation to delegation and representation. The results of the research suggest low levels of monitoring by Irish occupational pension funds compared to investment managers which could be explained by delegation. Furthermore significant differences in perceptions were identified in relation to the perceived importance of “Anti-takeover measures”, “Improving information flow to shareholders” and “Remuneration” to pension funds, when compared against the rankings for the impact of pension funds to each of these particular areas.
The value relevance of accounting data according to IFRS and us GAAP: The case of Germany
Authors: Ernstberger Jürgen
Published: December 2016

This paper compares the value relevance of IFRS, US GAAP and national GAAP in a specific institutional setting. Using a sample of all listed firms in Germany which have voluntarily adopted IFRS or US GAAP we apply three different valuation models as well as a return model in our analysis. Whereas under IFRS and Germany GAAP book value of equity is relatively more value relevant than net income, we find a different result for US GAAP. Additionally, the results of our study suggest that IFRS accounting produces more value relevant data than HGB and US GAAP. However, the differences in the value relevance of the accounting systems are lower than expected.