bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sickle cell disease in Middle East Arab countries
Authors: El-Hazmi Mohsen A. F. , Al-Hazmi Ali M. , Warsy Arjumand S.
Published: December 2011

The sickle cell (HbS) gene occurs at a variable frequency in the Middle Eastern Arab countries, with characteristic distribution patterns and representing an overall picture of blood genetic disorders in the region. The origin of the gene has been debated, but studies using β-globin gene haplotypes have ascertained that there were multiple origins for HbS. In some regions the HbS gene is common and exhibits polymorphism, while the reverse is true in others. A common causative factor for the high prevalence and maintenance of HbS and thalassaemia genes is malaria endemicity. The HbS gene also co-exists with other haemoglobin variants and thalassaemia genes and the resulting clinical state is referred to as sickle cell disease (SCD). In the Middle Eastern Arab countries, the clinical picture of SCD expresses two distinct forms, the benign and the severe forms, which are related to two distinct β-globin gene haplotypes. These are referred to as the Saudi-Indian and the Benin haplotypes, respectively. In a majority of the Middle Eastern Arab countries the HbS is linked to the Saudi-Indian haplotype, while in others it is linked to the Benin haplotype. This review outlines the frequency, distribution, clinical feature, management and prevention as well as gene interactions of the HbS genes with other haemoglobin disorders in the Middle Eastern Arab countries.
Hand hygiene
Authors: Mathur Purva
Published: December 2011

Health care associated infections are drawing increasing attention from patients, insurers, governments and regulatory bodies. This is not only because of the magnitude of the problem in terms of the associated morbidity, mortality and cost of treatment, but also due to the growing recognition that most of these are preventable. The medical community is witnessing in tandem unprecedented advancements in the understanding of pathophysiology of infectious diseases and the global spread of multi-drug resistant infections in health care set-ups. These factors, compounded by the paucity of availability of new antimicrobials have necessitated a re-look into the role of basic practices of infection prevention in modern day health care. There is now undisputed evidence that strict adherence to hand hygiene reduces the risk of cross-transmission of infections. With “Clean Care is Safer Care” as a prime agenda of the global initiative of WHO on patient safety programmes, it is time for developing countries to formulate the much-needed policies for implementation of basic infection prevention practices in health care set-ups. This review focuses on one of the simplest, low cost but least accepted from infection prevention: hand hygiene.
‘First we go to the small doctor’
Authors: Gautham Meenakshi , Binnendijk Erika , Koren Ruth , Dror David M.
Published: December 2011

Background & objectives:

Against the backdrop of insufficient public supply of primary care and reports of informal providers, the present study sought to collect descriptive evidence on 1st contact curative health care seeking choices among rural communities in two States of India - Andhra Pradesh (AP) and Orissa.

Methods:

The cross-sectional study design combined a Household Survey (1,810 households in AP; 5,342 in Orissa), 48 Focus Group Discussions (19 in AP; 29 in Orissa), and 61 Key Informant Interviews with healthcare providers (22 in AP; 39 in Orissa).

Results:

In AP, 69.5 per cent of respondents accessed non-degree allopathic practitioners (NDAPs) practicing in or near their village; in Orissa, 40.2 per cent chose first curative contact with NDAPs and 36.2 per cent with traditional healers. In AP, all NDAPs were private practitioners, in Orissa some pharmacists and nurses employed in health facilities, also practiced privately. Respondents explained their choice by proximity and providers’ readiness to make house-calls when needed. Less than a quarter of respondents chose qualified doctors as their first point of call: mostly private practitioners in AP, and public practitioners in Orissa. Amongst those who chose a qualified practitioner, the most frequent reason was doctors’ quality rather than proximity.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The results of this study show that most rural persons seek first level of curative healthcare close to home, and pay for a composite convenient service of consulting-cum-dispensing of medicines. NDAPs fill a huge demand for primary curative care which the public system does not satisfy, and are the de facto first level access in most cases.
Pulmonary function studies in young healthy Malaysians of Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Amit
Published: December 2011

Background & objectives:

Pulmonary function tests have been evolved as clinical tools in diagnosis, management and follow up of respiratory diseases as it provides objective information about the status of an individual's respiratory system. The present study was aimed to evaluate pulmonary function among the male and female young Kelantanese Malaysians of Kota Bharu, Malaysia, and to compare the data with other populations.

Methods:

A total of 128 (64 males, 64 females) non-smoking healthy young subjects were randomly sampled for the study from the Kelantanese students’ population of the University Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu Campus, Kelantan, Malaysia. The study population (20-25 yr age group) had similar socio-economic background. Each subject filled up the ATS (1978) questionnaire to record their personal demographic data, health status and consent to participate in the study. Subjects with any history of pulmonary diseases were excluded from the study.

Results:

The pulmonary function measurements exhibited significantly higher values among males than the females. FEV1% did not show any significant inter-group variation probably because the parameter expresses FEV1 as a percentage of FVC. FVC and FEV1 exhibited significant correlations with body height and body mass among males whereas in the females exhibited significant correlation with body mass, body weight and also with age. FEV1% exhibited significant correlation with body height and body mass among males and with body height in females. FEF25-75% did not show any significant correlation except with body height among females. However, PEFR exhibited significant positive correlation with all the physical parameters except with age among the females. On the basis of the existence of significant correlation between different physical parameters and pulmonary function variables, simple and multiple regression norms have been computed.

Interpretation & conclusions:

From the present investigation it can be concluded that Kelantanese Malaysian youths have normal range of pulmonary function in both the sexes and the computed regression norms may be used to predict the pulmonary function values in the studied population.
A pilot study on the effect of telmisartan & ramipril on 24 h blood pressure profile & dipping pattern in type 1 diabetes patients with nephropathy
Authors: Anantharaman R. , Bhansali Anil , Bhadada Sanjay K. , Kohli Harbir S. , Walia Rama , Shanmugasundar G. , Jayaprakash P.
Published: December 2011

Background & objectives:

Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) have been used to normalize the blood pressure and the dipping pattern in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and nephropathy. However, there are no data on the effect of the dual blockade on the dipping pattern in these subjects. We therefore, carried out this study to evaluate the effect of administrating an ACEI followed by ARB in the optimum doses in T1DM patients with nephropathy on 24 h blood pressure (BP) profile and nocturnal dipping pattern.

Methods:

An open label interventional pilot study was done during a one year period involving 30 consecutive patients who were treated with telmisartan 80 mg (0800-1000 h) for eight weeks followed by addition of ramipril 10 mg (1200-1400 h) for the next eight weeks. Ambulatory BP, dipping pattern and albumin excretion rate were studied after each phase. Twenty patients were hypertensive and 10 patients had macro- and 20 patients had microalbuminuria.

Results:

Telmisartan produced a fall in the clinic BP by 4/1.3 mm Hg (P<0.05 and P<0.362, respectively), 2/1.9 mm Hg in the mean 24 h BP, 1.4/1.1 mm Hg in the day BP and 3.7/3 mm Hg in the trough BP. Addition of ramipril to telmisartan produced a further reduction of 6.3/5.9 mm Hg in the clinic BP (P<0.001 for both), 4.3/4.2 mm Hg in the mean 24 h BP (P<0.01 and P<0.0001, respectively), 5.8/3.9 mm Hg in the day BP (P<0.01 for both), 4.2/2.5 mm Hg in the trough BP, with a reduction of clinic SBP and DBP of 10.3/7.2 mm Hg from the baseline. Telmisartan restored normal systolic dipping pattern in 33.3 per cent of the nondippers (P<0.01) but addition of ramipril was not complimentary. Hyperkalamia (>5.5 mmol/l) was observed only in 2 patients towards the end of the study.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The dual blockade with telmisartan and ramipril had complimentary effect on lowering of the BP, however, similar beneficial effect on the nocturnal dipping was not observed. Further studies with large number of subjects with longer duration of follow-up are required to validate these observations.
Characteristic Findings of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis on Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiography: Which is the Most Common Finding?
Authors: Alizadeh Amir Houshang Mohammad , Shahnazi Anahita , Rasoulzadeh Aida , Shams Esmaeel , Mohammadi Manijeh , Darabi Farideh , Behdad Mahnaz
Published: December 2011

Background

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease and one of the most common indications for liver transplantation in adults. There are conflicting data regarding characteristic findings of PSC disease on endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (ERCP). We undertook this study to clarify whether there is a specific pattern of involvement of the biliary tract in patients with PSC and to evaluate features of PSC disease on ERCP in order to be able to manage this disease better.

Methods

This retrospective study included 45 patients admitted to Taleghani Hospital in 2004-2010 and diagnosed to have PSC on the basis of typical cholangiographic findings in combination with clinical and laboratory data. Patients suspected to have secondary sclerosing cholangitis were excluded. Demographic and clinical data were recorded, along with cholangiographic findings and the frequency of large duct and small duct PSC.

Results

Forty-five patients of mean age 34.8 (range 15-66) years were included. Twenty-nine patients (64.4%) had inflammatory bowel disease, and the frequency of large duct PSC and small duct PSC was 93.4% and 6.6%, respectively. The intrahepatic ducts alone were involved in 11 (24.4%) patients and the extrahepatic ducts were involved in 14 (31.1%), with 17 (37.7%) patients having both intrahepatic and extrahepatic PSC. Three (6.6%) patients did not have bile duct involvement on ERCP, and their disease was diagnosed by liver biopsy as small duct PSC. The most common type of cholangiographic feature of intrahepatic duct involvement was type 2, found in 15 (33.3%) patients, with type 3 being the most common type of extrahepatic duct involvement and detected in 16 (35.5%) patients.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that the most common PSC finding on ERCP is involvement of both the extrahepatic and intrahepatic bile ducts, with small duct PSC being less common than large duct PSC.
Linear Discriminant Functions in connection with the micro-RNA Diagnosis of Colon Cancer
Authors: Nikas Jason B. , Low Walter C.
Published: December 2011

Early detection (localized stage) of colon cancer is associated with a five-year survival rate of 91%. Only 39% of colon cancers, however, are diagnosed at that early stage. Early and accurate diagnosis, therefore, constitutes a critical need and a decisive factor in the clinical treatment of colon cancer and its success. In this study, using supervised linear discriminant analysis, we have developed three diagnostic biomarker models that—based on global micro-RNA expression analysis of colonic tissue collected during surgery—can discriminate with a perfect accuracy between subjects with colon cancer (stages II–IV) and normal healthy subjects. We developed our three diagnostic biomarker models with 57 subjects [40 with colon cancer (stages II–IV) and 17 normal], and we validated them with 39 unknown (new and different) subjects [28 with colon cancer (stages II–IV) and 11 normal]. For all three diagnostic models, both the overall sensitivity and specificity were 100%. The nine most significant micro-RNAs identified, which comprise the input variables to the three linear discriminant functions, are associated with genes that regulate oncogenesis, and they play a paramount role in the development of colon cancer, as evidenced in the tumor tissue itself. This could have a significant impact in the fight against this disease, in that it may lead to the development of an early serum or blood diagnostic test based on the detection of those nine key micro-RNAs.
INFLUENCIA DEL POLIETILÉN GLICOL SOBRE LOS PARÁMETROS DE PRODUCCIÓN DE GAS in vitro EN CUATRO FORRAJERAS NATIVAS CONSUMIDAS POR EL VENADO COLA BLANCA
Authors: Domínguez-Gómez Tilo Gustavo , González-Rodríguez Humberto , Guerrero-Cervantes Maribel , Cerrillo-Soto María Andrea , Juárez-Reyes Arturo Saúl , Alvarado María del Socorro , Ramírez Lozano Roque Gonzalo
Published: December 2011

La composición química y la fermentación in vitro se determinó en hojas tratadas con y sin polietilén glicol (PEG), de arbustivas nativas del noreste de México como: Acacia amentacea, Celtis pallida, Forestiera angustifolia y Parkinsonia texana colectadas en agostaderos manejados sin disturbio. Las colectas se realizaron en enero y abril de 2009 en tres municipios (China, Linares y Los Ramones) del estado de Nuevo león, México. La composición química y la cinética de la fermentación in vitro variaron ampliamente entre sitios, plantas y entre muestreos dentro de especies. Sólo A. amentacea (18 %) y P. texana (8 %), que tuvieron alto contenido de taninos condensados (TC), aumentaron significativamente los parámetros de producción de gas y la energía metabolizable (EM) después del tratamiento con PEG. Celtis pallida y F. angustifolia tuvieron el más bajo contenido de lignina (LDA) y TC; sin embargo, C. pallida resultó con la más alta fermentación in vitro. Lo anterior se podría explicar por diferencias entre arbustivas respecto a las características genéticas relacionadas con la actividad de los metabolitos secundarios de las plantas. Todas las plantas tuvieron alto valor nutricional para el venado cola blanca debido a que su aparato digestivo tiene mecanismos para neutralizar TC.
The multi-dimensional nature of resistance to change
Authors: Smollan Roy K
Published: December 2011

Resistance to organizational change has too often been portrayed in a limited way, usually as a negative behavioural response of first-level employees. While the academic literature has identified a number of dimensions of resistance, it has not assembled them in one study. Therefore, the aims of this article are firstly to explore resistance to change as a more complex multi-dimensional concept, secondly to examine how actors at various hierarchical levels react to organizational change and thirdly how they construct the meaning of the term resistance. The findings of a qualitative study shed considerable light on the range of ways in which change participants at different levels reacted to a change and how they interpreted their own responses and those of others.
Aftershock: Business relocation decisions in the wake of the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake
Authors: Bowden Stephen
Published: December 2011

This paper examines four businesses that were located in Christchurch's CBD prior to the earthquake on February 22, 2011. Immediately following the quake Christchurch's CBD was cordoned off and for many Christchurch businesses it was necessary to find new premises in an environment of extreme uncertainty and very limited information. The four businesses used in this study were all required to relocate, however the specifics of their situations differed. All four businesses examined were larger professional services firms (lawyers, accountants, architects or engineers) who had a national presence. Given the limited number of suitable and available properties speed was of the essence in relocating. Through the four cases we explore how rapidly each firm initiated and completed the relocation process and the factors influencing their speed. We examine the means by which new premises were secured and the plans in regard to immediate and longer term business location. Finally, we explore the impact of relocation and the earthquake more broadly for these firms. The results obtained highlight the differences between the firms based on both initial conditions and the way each firm managed the process.
Statistics of vertical backscatter profiles of cirrus clouds
Authors: Veglio P. , Maestri T.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. A nearly global statistical analysis of vertical backscatter and extinction profiles of cirrus clouds collected by the CALIOP lidar, on-board of the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation, is presented. Statistics on frequency of occurrence and distribution of bulk properties of cirrus clouds in general and, for the first time, of horizontally homogeneous (on a 5-km field of view) cirrus clouds only are provided. Annual and seasonal backscatter profiles (BSP) are computed for the horizontally homogeneous cirri. Differences found in the day/night cases and for midlatitudes and tropics are studied in terms of the mean physical parameters of the clouds from which they are derived. The relationship between cloud physical parameters (optical depth, geometrical thickness and temperature) and the shape of the BSP is investigated. It is found that cloud geometrical thickness is the main parameter affecting the shape of the mean CALIOP BSP. Specifically, cirrus clouds with small geometrical thicknesses show a maximum in mean BSP curve located near cloud top. As the cloud geometrical thickness increases the BSP maximum shifts towards cloud base. Cloud optical depth and temperature have smaller effects on the shape of the CALIOP BSPs. In general a slight increase in the BSP maximum is observed as cloud temperature and optical depth increase. In order to fit mean BSPs, as functions of geometrical thickness and position within the cloud layer, polynomial functions are provided. The impact on satellite radiative transfer simulations in the infrared spectrum when using either a constant ice-content (IWC) along the cloud vertical dimension or an IWC profile derived from the BSP fitting functions is evaluated. It is, in fact, demonstrated that, under realistic hypotheses, the mean BSP is linearly proportional to the IWC profile.
Ice nucleation properties of fine ash particles from the Eyjafjallajökull eruption in April 2010
Authors: Steinke I. , Möhler O. , Kiselev A. , Niemand M. , Saathoff H. , Schnaiter M. , Skrotzki J. , Hoose C. , Leisner T.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. During the eruption of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano in the south of Iceland in April/May 2010, about 40 Tg of ash mass were emitted into the atmosphere. It was unclear whether volcanic ash particles with d < 10 μm facilitate the glaciation of clouds. Thus, ice nucleation properties of volcanic ash particles were investigated in AIDA (Aerosol Interaction and Dynamics in the Atmosphere) cloud chamber experiments simulating atmospherically relevant conditions. The ash sample that was used for our experiments had been collected at a distance of 58 km from the Eyjafjallajökull during the eruption period in April 2010. The temperature range covered by our ice nucleation experiments extended from 219 to 264 K, and both ice nucleation via immersion freezing and deposition nucleation could be observed. Immersion freezing was first observed at 252 K, whereas the deposition nucleation onset lay at 242 K and RHice =126%. About 0.1% of the volcanic ash particles were active as immersion freezing nuclei at a temperature of 249 K. For deposition nucleation, an ice fraction of 0.1% was observed at around 233 K and RHice =116%. Taking ice-active surface site densities as a measure for the ice nucleation efficiency, volcanic ash particles are similarly efficient ice nuclei in immersion freezing mode (ns,imm ~ 109 m−2 at 247 K) compared to certain mineral dusts. For deposition nucleation, the observed ice-active surface site densities ns,dep were found to be 1011 m−2 at 224 K and RHice =116%. Thus, volcanic ash particles initiate deposition nucleation more efficiently than Asian and Saharan dust but appear to be poorer ice nuclei than ATD particles. Based on the experimental data, we have derived ice-active surface site densities as a function of temperature for immersion freezing and of relative humidity over ice and temperature for deposition nucleation.
Confocal Raman microscope mapping as a tool to describe different mineral and organic phases at high spatial resolution within marine biogenic carbonates: case study on Nerita undata (Gastropoda, Neritopsina)
Authors: Nehrke G. , Nouet J.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Marine biogenic carbonates formed by invertebrates (e.g. corals and mollusks) represent complex composites of one or more mineral phases and organic molecules. This complexity ranges from the macroscopic structures observed with the naked eye down to sub micrometric structures only revealed by micro analytical techniques. Understanding to what extent and how organisms can control the formation of these structures requires that the mineral and organic phases can be identified and their spatial distribution related. Here we demonstrate the capability of confocal Raman microscopy applied to cross sections of a shell of Nerita undata to describe the distribution of calcite and aragonite including their crystallographic orientation with high lateral resolution (~300 nm). Moreover, spatial distribution of functional groups of organic compounds can be simultaneously acquired, allowing to specifically relate them to the observed microstructures. The data presented in this case study highlights the possible new contributions of this method to the description of modalities of Nerita undata shell formation, and what could be expected of its application to other marine biogenic carbonates. Localization of areas of interest would also allow further investigations using more localized methods, such as TEM that would provide complementary information on the relation between organic molecules and crystal lattice.
Estimating the benefits of single value and probability forecasting for flood warning
Authors: Verkade J. S. , Werner M. G. F.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Flood risk can be reduced by means of flood forecasting, warning and response systems (FFWRS). These systems include a forecasting sub-system which is imperfect, meaning that inherent uncertainties in hydrological forecasts may result in false alarms and missed events. This forecasting uncertainty decreases the potential reduction of flood risk, but is seldom accounted for in estimates of the benefits of FFWRSs. In the present paper, a method to estimate the benefits of (imperfect) FFWRSs in reducing flood risk is presented. The method is based on a hydro-economic model of expected annual damage (EAD) due to flooding, combined with the concept of Relative Economic Value (REV). The estimated benefits include not only the reduction of flood losses due to a warning response, but also consider the costs of the warning response itself, as well as the costs associated with forecasting uncertainty. The method allows for estimation of the benefits of FFWRSs that use either deterministic or probabilistic forecasts. Through application to a case study, it is shown that FFWRSs using a probabilistic forecast have the potential to realise higher benefits at all lead-times. However, it is also shown that provision of warning at increasing lead-time does not necessarily lead to an increasing reduction of flood risk, but rather that an optimal lead-time at which warnings are provided can be established as a function of forecast uncertainty and the cost-loss ratio of the user receiving and responding to the warning.
Variational assimilation of Lagrangian trajectories in the Mediterranean ocean Forecasting System
Authors: Nilsson J. A. U. , Dobricic S. , Pinardi N. , Poulain P.-M. , Pettenuzzo D.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. A novel method for three-dimensional variational assimilation of Lagrangian data with a primitive-equation ocean model is proposed. The assimilation scheme was implemented in the Mediterranean ocean Forecasting System and evaluated for a 4-month period. Four experiments were designed to assess the impact of trajectory assimilation on the model output, i.e. the sea-surface height, velocity, temperature and salinity fields. It was found from the drifter and Argo trajectory assimilation experiment that the forecast skill of surface-drifter trajectories improved by 15 %, that of intermediate-depth float trajectories by 20 %, and moreover, the forecasted sea-surface height fields improved locally by 5 % compared to satellite data, while the quality of the temperature and salinity fields remained at previous levels. In conclusion, the addition of Lagrangian trajectory assimilation proved to reduce the uncertainties in the model fields, thus yielding a higher accuracy of the ocean forecasts.
Simulated In-home Teletreatment for Anomia
Authors: Dechêne Lambert , Tousignant Michel , Boissy Patrick , Macoir Joël , Héroux Serge , Hamel Mathieu , Brière Simon , Pagé Catherine
Published: December 2011

This pilot study explored the feasibility of in-home teletreatment for patients with post-stroke anomia. Three participants over 65 years of age suffering from post-stroke anomia were treated in this pre/post-intervention case study. They received 12 speech therapy teletreatments (two sessions/week for 6 weeks) aimed at improving confrontation naming skills. Half of the failed items from a set of 120 preselected stimuli were trained during treatment (Block A-trained stimuli) while the other half served as controls (Block B-untrained stimuli). Variables measured were: 1) efficacy of treatment (performance on Block-A vs. Block B Stimuli), and 2) participants’ satisfaction with teletreatment (using a French adaptation of the Telemedicine satisfaction questionnaire). All participants showed clinically relevant improvement on confrontation naming of trained items and less improvement for untrained items. The researchers also obtained high satisfaction scores on the questionnaire (above 57/60). This pilot study supports the feasibility of speech therapy teletreatments applied to neurological language disorders.
Technology that Touches Lives: Teleconsultation to Benefit Persons with Upper Limb Loss
Authors: Whelan Lynsay R. , Wagner Nathan
Published: December 2011

While over 1.5 million individuals are living with limb lossin the United States (Ziegler-Graham et al., 2008), only 10% of these individuals have a loss that affects an upper limb. Coincident with the relatively low incidence of upper limb loss, is a shortage of the community-based prosthetic rehabilitation experts that can help prosthetic users to more fully integrate their devices into their daily routines. This article describes how expert prosthetists and occupational therapists at Touch Bionics, a manufacturer of advanced upper limb prosthetic devices, employ Voice over the Internet Protocol (VoIP) videoconferencing software telehealth technologies to engage in remote consultation with users of prosthetic devices and/or their local practitioners. The Touch Bionics staff provide follow-up expertise to local prosthetists, occupational therapists, and other health professionals. Contrasted with prior telephone-based consultations, the video-enabled approach provides enhanced capabilities to benefit persons with upper limb loss.  Currently, the opportunities for Touch Bionics occupational therapists to fully engage in patient-based services delivered through telehealth technologies are significantly reduced by their need to obtain and maintain professional licenses in multiple states.
Telehealth Forging Ahead: Overcoming Barriers in Licensure to Improve Access to Care for Service Members
Authors: Stout Katie Ambrose , Martinez Kristina
Published: December 2011

The telehealth initiatives of the Department of Defense (DoD) and Veterans’ Health Administration (VHA) continue to test the limits of technology to provide the best care to our service members, veterans and their families.  The DoD and VHA have credentialing systems in place to allow clinical practice between facilities. New legislation in the form of the Servicemembers’ Telemedicine and E-Health Portability (STEP) Act will potentially expand telehealth clinical services across state lines into the homes of our service members and veterans.
A Comparative Study of Using Multimedia Annotation and Printed Textual Glossary in Learning Vocabulary
Authors: Jafre Zainol Abidin Mohamad , Pour-Mohammadi Majid , Sharbaf Shoar Neda , Hoe Cheong See Toh , Mohamad Jafre Afif
Published: December 2011

This study intends to evaluate the effectiveness of Electronic Glossary and Non-electronic Glossary in L2 vocabulary learning among a group of low proficiency learners of English. It also seeks to determine which glossary mode is effective to help learners in the recall and retention of the meanings learned. A multiple time-series design was adopted as the study involved the use of two sets of treatments as well as using three measurements in the forms of a pretest, a posttest and a delayed posttest. It was conducted over 4 weeks and 120 students from 2 different schools participated. Results suggest that Electronic Glossary in the form of Multimedia Annotation is more effective in the acquisition and learning of unknown vocabulary than Non-electronic Glossary in the form of Printed Textual Glossary. In addition, it is also figured out that both modes of glossaries have some positive effects on the recall and retention rate of low proficiency students. The results are also discussed and some recommendations are finally provided.
An Analysis of University Teachers’ Understanding about their Profession and Expectations for Their Professional Development in Pakistan
Authors: Lone Abdul Hameed , Shakir Muhammad , Zafar Jam M.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. The main purpose of the study was to critically analyze the relevancy and effectiveness of the training contents and process of the teaching profession; to assess training needs of university and college teachers in terms of conceptualizing new meanings of education and teaching profession. The population of the study consisted of thirty teachers from different departments of The Islamia University of Bahawalpur and ten teachers from different disciplines of graduate colleges of the province. Pre-Test and Post-Test were developed as a research instrument. The researcher participated in the workshop and observed its mechanism, content, lecturers, activities, and videoconferences and exchanged views with resource persons as well as participants of the workshop. A pre-test delivered to the participants for assessing their previous knowledge about concept and meaning of teaching profession, professional ethic, teachers’ personality, trends of education in 21st century, importance of change in teachers’ attitudes, different roles of a teacher, and application of new learning skills. At end of the workshop post-test was conducted to evaluate the outcomes of workshop. Researcher also observed the role of master trainer, trainee’s performance, instructional material, group activities, time management, venue and refreshment. The collected data through pre-test and post test was filtered and analyzed in qualitative way. The findings of the above analysis revealed that participants got an awareness of the impact of new approaches to teaching and learning in their institutions. However there is a considerable gap between awareness of the new trends, mastering and deeper understanding of these techniques. In the light of analysis of the research study it was found that trainees of the workshop gained enough knowledge about concept, roles, global trends in 21st century, principles and main factors of teaching profession. In the light of findings of the study it was concluded that workshop was effective and healthy practice for the participants in the perspectives of teaching profession. It was also concluded that teachers had developed a strong awareness about their roles and commitment to adopting a very positive teaching profession.  In the light of findings of the study it was recommended that such types of training work shop should be compulsory for every faculty member.
Using Active Engagement Strategy to Promote Learning Awareness and Self-Monitoring
Authors: Kean Ang Chooi , Embi Mohamed Amin
Published: December 2011

Abstract This paper reports an ongoing practice attempting to promote learning awareness and self-monitoring in a Japanese language oral communication classroom of a 12-Week Preparatory Course under the local in-service teachers’ Japanese language teacher training programme. It aims to share the experiences and challenges faced in planning and implementation of the practice. In providing a mid-term review on the effort taken, an online questionnaire was administered to the 15 course participants. The results of the questionnaire obtained from 14 respondents, together with reflection reports submitted by 3 selected participants were examined to find out the influence of the practice onto their learning and perceptions among the participants towards the practice within the first half of the course of 6 weeks. The initial findings showed positive results in the aspect of learning awareness in all participants. However, there were only a few cases with indication in the aspect of self-monitoring.   Keywords: active engagement, learning awareness, self-monitoring, Japanese language, oral communication, teacher training
Investigating the Impact of Using Games in Teaching Children English
Authors: Wang Ying- Jian , Shang Hui-Fang , Briody Paul
Published: December 2011

Abstract The ever increasing numbers of EFL learners adds greater urgency to the need to prioritize the most effective means by which language proficiency can be enhanced; developing language skills through games being one such method. This study examines the overall effects of using games on the improvement of young children’s English proficiency in relation to the following criteria: motivation; vocabulary acquisition; and anxiety due to peer pressure. The overarching aim of the research is to investigate the relationship between the usage of games and students’ English proficiency. In this study, the subjects numbered 50 grade-six EFL students from one elementary school. By applying quantitative and qualitative research methods, the major findings demonstrate that students evidenced significant improvements in their learning motivation and vocabulary acquisition, and that their anxiety levels due to peer pressure were reduced when learning included games. Other findings reveal that there is a significant relationship/difference in the utilization of games and students’ English performance, most notably with regards to proficiency levels. The various implications for pedagogical application of gaming components in regards to enhancing young learners’ English performance and attitudes are also presented.   Keywords: Motivation; vocabulary acquisition; anxiety; games; English proficiency
Promoting Education for Sustainable Development: Challenges and Issues for Higher Education Institutions in Pakistan
Authors: Mughal Shahid Hussain , Qaisrani Nasim , Solangi Ghulam Mohuyuddin , Faiz Sumaira
Published: December 2011

Abstract Education is critical agent of transformation in terms of changing life styles, attitude and behavior.  The role of education in pursuit of Sustainable Development is indispensable. The United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (1987) used the term Sustainable Development. According to UN Commission (known as Brundtland Commission) Sustainable Development is “development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the needs of future generation.” Sustainable Development talks about environmental problems and its solution in a broader perspective. It takes into account social, political, cultural and economic aspects. The United Nations has declared 2005-2014 as the decade for Education for Sustainable Development. Since the 1993 Kyoto Declaration on Sustainable Development, the role of higher education has become vital. The recent trend in the depletion of natural resources, energy, water and food crises, has increased and challenged the role of higher education institutions in Pakistan. The question arises “To what extent our higher education & research institutions are playing their role in order to ameliorate the situation?  The other questions that come to mind are “how higher education institutions can respond to prevailing intricate situation? And what role can these institutions play for promoting education for sustainability? This research study intends to critically examine the role of higher education institutions for the promotion of education for sustainability and to explore the opportunities for the integration of education for sustainability considerations in the existing courses being offered in the universities of Pakistan. This study intends to analyze the National Conservation strategy (NCS) of Pakistan with reference to the promotion of education for sustainability.   Key Words: Education for sustainability, Higher Education, National Conservation Strategy, Integration
Relationship between Professional Ethics and Organizational Commitment
Authors: Ahmadi Freyedon
Published: December 2011

The purpose of this paper is to investigate relationship between professional ethics and organizational commitment in food industry in Kurdistan province. In this study researchers have used the Allen and Meyer’s model for identification of organizational commitment. For accessing the objective sample of 210 people of 15 food industry in Kurdistan province was selected. The results of this study have shown that, there is a significant relationship between professional ethics and organizational commitment and its dimensions.   Keywords: Organizational commitment, affective commitment, continuance commitment, normative commitment, Professional ethics
In Vivo Effects of Antiviral Protein Kinase C Modulators on Zebrafish Development and Survival
Authors: Davis Richard V. , McKernan Lisa N. , Rhodes Jennifer , Kulkosky Joseph
Published: December 2011

Clinical interventions using protein kinase C (PKC) modulators have been proposed for eradication of HIV-1-infected cellular reservoirs which persist in patients despite prolonged antiretroviral therapy. The effects of some of these agents have not been assessed in a developing vertebrate model. This study examines the developmental and toxicological effects of these compounds on zebrafish embryos and larvae. Treatment of zebrafish through the first week of development with various PKC pathway modulators did not elicit gross physical defects or elevated incidences of death at lower doses. Higher concentrations resulted in rapid death for both later-stage embryos and larvae. Each compound had a threshold dose for lethality. The defined nonlethal doses may be useful toward assessing the effects of modulating PKC activity on zebrafish development. They may further provide some guidance for the potential dosing of PKC modulators in clinical trials toward the goal of HIV-1 reservoir eradication.
Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Review of Current Concept in Surgical Management
Authors: Kesieme Emeka B. , Kesieme Chinenye N.
Published: December 2011

Congenital diaphragmatic hernias (CDHs) occur mainly in two locations: the foramen of Morgagni and the more common type involving the foramen of Bochdalek. Hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernia have also been described as other forms of CDH. Pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary hypoplasia have been recognized as the two most important factors in the pathophysiology of congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Advances in surgical management include delayed surgical approach that enables preoperative stabilization, introduction of fetal intervention due to improved prenatal diagnosis, the introduction of minimal invasive surgery, in addition to the standard open repair, and the use of improved prosthetic devices for closure.
Multi-Soliton Solutions for an Inhomogeneous Nonlinear Schrödinger– Maxwell–Bloch System in the Erbium-Doped Fiber
Authors: Wang Ming , Shan Wen-Rui , Lü Xing , Qin Bo , Liu Li-Cai
Published: December 2011

Under investigation in this paper is an inhomogeneous nonlinear Schrödinger-Maxwell-Bloch system with variable dispersion and nonlinear effects, which describes the propagation of optical pulses in an inhomogeneous erbium-doped fiber. Under certain coefficient constraints, multi-soliton solutions are obtained by the Hirota method and symbolic computation. Evolution and interaction of the solitons are plotted, and the self-induced transparency effect caused by the doped erbium atoms is found to lead to the change of the soliton velocity and phase. Overall phase shift can be observed when the parameter accounting for the interaction between the silica and doped erbium atoms is taken as a constant.
Bifurcation Behaviour of the Travelling Wave Solutions of the Perturbed Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation with Kerr Law Nonlinearity
Authors: Zhang Zai-Yun , Gan Xiang-Yang , Yu De-Ming
Published: December 2011

In this paper, we study the bifurcations and dynamic behaviour of the travelling wave solutions of the perturbed nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE) with Kerr law nonlinearity by using the theory of bifurcations of dynamic systems. Under the given parametric conditions, all possible representations of explicit exact solitary wave solutions and periodic wave solutions are obtained
Dynamics of Paired-Solitons in Quantum Electron Plasmas
Authors: Hong Woo-Pyo , Jung Young-Dae
Published: December 2011

We show the existence of new localized nonlinear structures for the electrostatic potential and the electron density in the form of bright and W-shaped solitons in quantum electron plasmas, respectively, which is modelled by the coupled nonlinear Schrödinger-Poisson equations. The robustness and the conservation of the energy of the solitons are demonstrated by numerical simulations. The sensitivity of the coupling constant on the stability of the paired solitons in the quantum electron plasmas are investigated.
Relating membrane potential to impedance spectroscopy
Authors: Gheorghiu Eugen
Published: December 2011

Non-invasive, label-free assessment of membrane potential of living cells is still a challenging task. The theory linking membrane potential to the low frequency α dispersion exhibited by suspensions of spherical shelled particles (presenting a net charge distribution on the inner side of the shell) has been pioneered in our previous studies with emphasis on the permittivity spectra. Whereas α dispersion is related to a rather large variation exhibited by the permittivity spectrum, we report that the related decrement presented by the impedance magnitude spectrum is either extremely small, or occurs (for large cells) at very small frequencies (~mHz) explaining the lack of experimental bioimpedance data on the matter.

We stress that appropriate choice of the parameters (as revealed by the microscopic model) may enable access to membrane potential as well as to other relevant parameters when investigating living cells and charged lipid vesicles. We analyse the effect on the low frequency of the permittivity and impedance spectra of: I. Parameters pertaining to cell membrane i.e. (i) membrane potential (through the amount of the net charge on the inner side of the membrane), (ii) size of the cells/vesicles, (iii) conductivity of the membrane; II. Parameters of the extra cellular medium (viscosity and conductivity).

The applicability of the study has far reaching implications for basic (life) sciences (providing non-invasive access to the dynamics of relevant cell parameters) as well as for biosensing applications, e.g. assessment of cytotoxicity of a wide range of stimuli.
Using the Initial Systolic Time Interval to assess cardiac autonomic nervous function in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Meijer Jan H. , Elbertse Eskeline , Boesveldt Sanne , Berendse Henk W. , Verdaasdonk Rudolph M.
Published: December 2011

The Initial Systolic Time Interval (ISTI) has been defined as the time difference between the peak electrical and peak mechanical activity of the heart. ISTI is obtained from the electro-cardiogram and the impedance cardiogram. The response of ISTI while breathing at rest and to a deep breathing stimulus was studied in a group of patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease (PD) and a group of healthy control subjects. ISTI showed substantial variability during these manoeuvres. The tests showed that the variability of RR and ISTI was substantially different between PD patients and controls. It is hypothesized that in PD patients the sympathetic nervous system compensates for the loss of regulatory control function of the blood-pressure by the parasympathetic system. It is concluded that ISTI is a practical, additional and independent parameter that can be used to assist other tests in evaluating autonomic nervous control of the heart in PD patients.
Cross‐Coupling with Organosilicon Compounds
Authors: Chang Wen‐Tau T. , Smith Russell C. , Regens Christopher S. , Bailey Aaron D. , Werner Nathan S. , Denmark Scott E.
Published: December 2011

Organosilicon functions possess many properties that make them ideal donors of organic groups in cross‐coupling reactions. Through the addition of an appropriate silicophilic Lewis base, anin situpentacoordinate silane can effectively transfer an organic group. This feature allows for the rapid development of silicon cross‐coupling methods that continue today. Organosilicon‐based cross‐coupling has now become a practical, viable, and in some cases, superior compared with organoboron,‐zinc,‐tin couplings. The unique properties of organosilicon compounds provide a number of distinct advantages to their use as donors in transition‐metal catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions: 1, silicon moieties can be introduced into organic substrates by many general and high‐yielding methods for the construction of silicon carbon bonds; 2, organosilicon reagents are chemically robust and allow isolation and purification of products and are compatible with many functional groups; 3, silicon‐containing by‐products of the coupling are of low molecular weight, are nontoxic, and are easily removed from the reaction mixture; 4, a number of mild methods are available.

This chapter presents a thorough overview of the various combinations of transferable groups and organic electrophiles. The scope is limited to the combination of silicon‐bearing nucleophiles with halo or related electrophiles under catalysis by palladium or nickel complexes wherein the silyl halide is lost.