bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explaining Japan’s Revolving Door Premiership: Applying the Leadership Capital Index
Authors: Burrett Tina
Published: June 2016

The tenure of Japanese prime ministers is famously short. Between 2006 and 2012 Japan changed prime minister once a year. What factors can explain Japan’s revolving-door premiership? To explore this puzzle, this article applies the Leadership Capital Index (LCI) developed by Bennister, ’t Hart and Worthy (2015) to case studies of the nine Japanese prime ministers holding office between 2000 and 2015. Leadership capital is the aggregate of leaders’ political resources: skills, relations and reputation. The LCI thus allows analysis of the interplay between individual capacities and contextual conditions in determining leaders’ ability to gain, maintain and deploy power. The LCI is applied to answer two questions. Firstly, what accounts for the short tenure of many Japanese premiers? In which of the LCI’s three leadership dimensions do Japanese leaders lack capital? Secondly, what forms of capital allow some prime ministers to retain office for longer than average (>2 years)? In particular, the article analyses the leadership of Junichiro Koizumi (2001–2006) Japan’s longest serving prime minister since the 1970s, and incumbent Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who has held office for three years since December 2012. As well as utilising the LCI to comparatively analyse the tenure of Japan’s prime ministers, this article tests the applicability of the Index beyond Western parliamentary democracies.
Человек в контексте философской антропологии
Authors: Ильин Виктор Васильевич
Published: June 2016

Рассматривая извечные экзистенциальные сюжеты значения, назначения, призвания человека в мире, автор развивает нетрадиционное понимание вопросов неисчерпаемой, бесконечно многосторонней жизни.
Нарушение коммуникативной компетенции у подростков с шизоидной психопатией
Authors: Карпенко Диана Алексеевна , Хачатурова Эмма Валерьевна
Published: June 2016

Изучение психологами своеобразного внутреннего мира подростков с шизоидной психопатией и его проявления в речевой деятельности позволяет анализировать сочетание несовместимых в рамках нормальной психики, особенностей мотивации, общения, познавательной деятельности, психической активности и дает возможность для решения круга важнейших проблем, связанных со спецификой данной патологии.
Практика использования комплексного подхода для снижения стресса
Authors: Оболонский Юрий Владимирович , Кожевников Илья Сергеевич
Published: June 2016

В статье приведен отчет о проделанной работе в Центре психологической реабилитации и инновационного развития человека «Радомир» по применению комплексного подхода для снижения стресса.
Социально-психологические характеристики личности в контексте технического образования
Authors: Хрусталёва Валерия Владимировна , Суходровский Андрей Дмитриевич
Published: June 2016

В данной статье обсуждаются особенности формирования некоторых личностных структур юношей и девушек, обучающихся по техническому, физико-математическому профилю. Приведены результаты исследований, где рассмотрены такие показатели как самооценка, самопрезентация, групповая рефрентность, социальное уподобление и ценностные ориентации. Даны рекомендации по составлению программ психологического сопровождения студентов технического профиля.
Психологическая безопасность семьи как способ формирования общества будущего
Authors: Волынец Ирина Владимировна
Published: June 2016

Первая статья в ряде публикаций, освещающих ход проекта «Родительского Национального Комитета» и Центра психологической реабилитации и инновационного развитая человека «Радомир», основой которого является обучающая программа родителей и детей по предотвращению стрессов, зависимостей, конфликтов и создание модели поведения в обществе основой которого является психологическая безопасность.
Modelado, diseño y construcción de un sistema activo de control de estabilidad de bajo costo para cohetes experimentales tipo aficionado
Authors: Aponte Rodríguez Jorge Alexander , Amaya Hurtado Darío , Rubiano Fonseca Astrid , Prada Jiménez Vladimir
Published: June 2016

Este artículo presenta el modelado, diseño y construcción de un cohete tipo aficionado de bajo costo, empleando un sistema de control activo por medio de una tobera móvil para lograr una mayor estabilidad. Se plantean los métodos y procedimientos utilizados en el experimento, desarrollando el análisis, simulación e implementación de un prototipo de control para lograr una trayectoria de vuelo.
Thinklet: Elemento clave en la generación de métodos colaborativos para evaluar usabilidad de software
Authors: Solano Alegría Andrés , Méndez Alegría Yenny , Collazos Ordóñez César
Published: June 2016

En la actualidad, la usabilidad es un atributo fundamental para el éxito de un producto software. La competitividad entre organizaciones obliga a mejorar el nivel de usabilidad de los productos, debido al riesgo que existe de perder clientes, si el producto no es fácil de usar y/o fácil de aprender. Aunque se han establecido métodos para evaluar la usabilidad de productos software, la mayoría de estos métodos no consideran la posibilidad de involucrar a varias personas trabajando de forma colaborativa en el proceso de evaluación. Por esta razón, convendría utilizar la Metodología para el Diseño de Métodos de Evaluación de Usabilidad Colaborativos, de tal forma que se diseñen métodos que permitan a varias personas de diversas áreas de conocimiento, trabajar de forma colaborativa en el proceso de evaluación. Este artículo presenta de forma general, la metodología mencionada y hace especial énfasis en los thinklets, como elementos clave para el diseño de procesos colaborativos.
Análisis estructural y morfológico de películas de nitruro de aluminio obtenidas por deposición de láser pulsado
Authors: Pérez Taborda Jaime Andrés , Riascos Landázuri Henry , Jiménez García Francy Nelly , Caicedo Angulo Julio César
Published: June 2016

En este trabajo, se presentan los resultados preliminares de películas nanoestructuradas de nitruro de aluminio (AlN), que fueron depositadas con el método de deposición por láser pulsado (PLD). Al efecto, se utilizó un láser Nd:YAG (¿=1064nm), que impacto un blanco de aluminio de alta pureza (4N), en una atmósfera de nitrógeno. Se utilizaron como sustratos portaobjetos de vidrio, Si3N4 (100) y Si (100). El tiempo de deposición fue de 15 minutos a una fluencia del láser 7 J/cm2 y a temperatura ambiente. El espesor de las películas fue de 50 nm medido con un perfilómetro. Para estudiar la influencia del nitrógeno en las películas delgadas de AlN, se varió la presión del gas ambiente entre (3 y 4) mTorr. Igualmente se estudió la influencia del sustrato en las propiedades morfológicas de las películas delgadas de AlN. La nanoestructura de las películas se determinó mediante microscopia electrónica de barrido (SEM), y microscopia de fuerza atómica (AFM); la composición química, utilizando la técnica de espectroscopía de rayos X por dispersión de energía (EDX). La estructura cristalina fue estudiada con difracción de rayos X (DRX), para la película de 4 mTorr sobre un sustrato de Si3N4 (100), y se encontró una estructura policristalina con reflexiones de los planos (002), asociados a la estructura tipo wurtzita del AlN.
Análisis cinemático y diseño de un mecanismo de cuatro barras para falange proximal de dedo antropomórfico
Authors: Portilla Flores Édgar Alfredo , Avilés Sánchez Oscar Fernando , Piña Quintero Roberto , Niño Suárez Paola Andrea , Moya Sánchez Edgar , Molina Vilchis María Aurora
Published: June 2016

En este artículo, se presenta el análisis cinemático y una metodología de diseño paramétrico de la falange proximal para un dedo antropomórfico1 de un grado de libertad. El diseño del mecanismo se lleva a cabo, tomando diez posiciones de la barra de salida del mismo. Se presenta la simulación dinámica, utilizando un modelo de CAD para comprobar la factibilidad de los resultados obtenidos por el mecanismo. Por último, se muestra el análisis comparativo entre los resultados de la cinemática obtenidos numéricamente y los experimentales.
Modelos de optimización por metas para el cálculo de estimadores en regresión múltiple
Authors: López Ospina Héctor Andrés , López Ospina Rafael David
Published: June 2016

Este trabajo introductorio presenta y describe diversos modelos de regresión múltiple y su respectiva formulación como un problema de optimización por metas. Se describen los modelos de regresión mediana, regresión mediana ponderada, regresión cuantílica, regresión cuantílica ponderada y formulación minimax. Además, se describe la formulación dual de estos modelos y se presentan algunos ejemplos sencillos se presentan para explicar los conceptos desarrollados y las aplicaciones de dichos modelos en ingeniería y ciencias.
A Scenario Based Stochastic Time-Cost-Quality Trade-Off model for Project Scheduling Problem
Authors: Golpîra Hêriş
Published: June 2016

This paper formulates a new time–cost trade-off problem under some uncertainties for a multi-phase project. To do this, a new approach is proposed based on goal programming in compliance with scenario-based stochastic optimization formulation. To the best of our knowledge, this problem has not been extensively treated in the literature. Computational results show the applicability and usefulness of the proposed method.
Corporate branding effects on consumer purchase preferences in Serbian telecom market
Authors: Vanka Gajo
Published: June 2016

This research is carried out to know the role of corporate branding in mobile phone network along with different influencing factors involved in the purchase of mobile telephone connections. This paper discusses corporate branding from consumer’s point of view that how much they value it and what type of role it has.This is a quantitative study. A questionnaire is used in order to investigate corporate branding and other influencing factors involved in purchase decision of the customers. Population selected for this study are Belgrade University students which is the most of Serbian youth segment and is a valuable source that gives precise information with high probability about market preferences according to the Research of Serbian republic statistical office. Primary data are obtained by collecting data from questionnaire and interview, while the secondary data are collected from various reliable sources. Primary data provide reliable content in accordance with a secondary data obtained by Serbian republic statistical office and with a Research of competitor and consumer preferences insight provided by Telenor Company. The analysis of the data has been performed in accordance with the chosen theories and summarized in a table, which serves as a tool for deriving reliable and relevant conclusions. The sample size was determined by conducting a primary study and defining the variance of primary sample and the intended number of samples was selected carefully and randomly from the population. Then the validity and reliability of the questionnaire was determined. The used questionnaire in this research consisted of 7 common, and 30 specialized questions which were supporting the hypotheses of the research. Data was analyzed using the frequency percent techniques, and in the chapter related to the deductive statistics, one-sample t test was used to analyze and approve/disapprove the questions supporting the research hypotheses. The analysis of this study reveals different set of results while making comparison between literature and empirical. It investigates the relative importance of the corporate branding to the customers in mobile phone telecommunication industry while making purchase decision. The findings of this study provided useful information which is helpful not only for the students but also for the brand managers of mobile telecom operators that how they can improve their company’s strategic position for longer period of time through corporate branding to trigger more customers and for a good brand.
Agri-product evaluation and biodiversity measurement
Authors: Kovács Szilvia
Published: June 2016

This paper is meant to be the first part of a two part unit that will be published next. The objective of this paper is to be an introduction of agri-product evaluation, within which a short summary of essentials of diversity measurement is given and to share experience on evaluation of environmental friendly agri-product. For biodiversity measurement and extern effects, literature of related publications was processed and experience gained over experimental projects on environmental-friendly technologies was summed up. Methods applied were based on influence-response approach which guided us all through the research work. It can be stated that one diversity measure or one diversity function fails to describe communities of living beings; therefore, at least two methods should be used in parallel. Scale-dependent description of diversity is necessary, which provides us with new information that can not be revealed by traditional methods. To identify external effects, we have to take influences of use of a specific product into account and the responses generated by use of that product. Influences might appear in parallel or can build up one another, similarly to the generated responses of environment. To be as precise as possible, it is suggested that we take into account only clear responses. Influence response relations are shown here using terms and concepts in broad sense and in general. More sophisticated application of terms and concepts is needed to evaluate properly and in monetary terms.We will make efforts to clarify terms and their use in the future.
Agriculture in the Netherlands: Its recent past, current state and perspectives
Authors: Van der Heide C. Martijn , Silvis Huib J. , Heijman Wim J.M.
Published: June 2016

The driving forces that determine the prospects of the agricultural sector are dominated by international and European developments related to the demand for and supply of products. In this context, European policy, (such as the CAP), and national policy (e.g. nature management) can greatly influence the development of the agricultural sector.A further reduction of the support by the government forms an important element in the expected future developments.
Portuguese agriculture and its role in multifunctional rural development
Authors: Ventura-Lucas Maria Raquel , Marques Carlos , De Belém Martins Maria , Fragoso Rui
Published: June 2016

Paper aims to demonstrate the ability or inability of Portuguese agriculture to respond to changing economic conditions as well as societal expectations and demands. The main question is to know how the CAP’s evolutions through a policy with a double emphasis – on market orientation and competitiveness and on sustainability.
Role of agriculture and multifunctional rural development in Serbia
Authors: Bogdanov Natalija , Vasiljevic Zorica
Published: June 2016

Serbia is mostly rural country, as three fourth of its territory make rural areas, while almost half population is living in rural areas. Serbian agriculture is the sector which is very important for the total economy of the country in respect of resources, participation in GDP, employment as well as importance for rural areas and population. This is the only sector in Serbian economy that shows positive foreign trade balance in the recent several years.There are potentials for development of agrarian entrepreneurship on one hand, but on the other, there are constraints in existence of great number of small family farms whereas the huge share could not have commercial profile and could not live only from agricultural activities. The concept of multifunctional development of agriculture and rural areas is still present mostly in scientific and political sphere without clear explanation or interpretation as well as mechanisms of implementation. Serbia’s rural space is heterogenic and devastated in different extent, and therefore extremely complicated for planning of multifunctional development.
Economics of GM crop cultivation
Authors: Nábrádi András , Popp József
Published: June 2016

Asynchronous approval of new GM crops across international jurisdictions is of growing concern due to its potential impact on global trade. Different countries have different authorisation procedures and, even if regulatory dossiers are submitted at the same time, approval is not given simultaneously (in some cases, delays can even amount to years). For instance, by mid-2009 over 40 transgenic events were approved or close to approval elsewhere but not yet approved – or not even submitted – in the EU.Yet, like some other jurisdictions,the EU also operates a zero-tolerance policy to even the smallest traces of nationally unapproved GM crops (so-called low-level presence). The resultant rejection of agricultural imports has already caused high economic losses and threatens to disrupt global agri-food supply chains. The risk that feed supplies could be affected by a low-level presence of non-EU approved GM material could be resolved if the EU allowed a tolerance for this, rather than operating a strict zero tolerance as now. The Commission has undertaken to come forward with a nonlegislative technical solution to address the difficulties created by a strict zero tolerance policy. To what extent this would be helpful will depend on the nature of the proposed solution.
Knowledge needs in rural tourism in Czech Republic
Authors: Dömeová Ludmila , Zeipelt Rudolf
Published: June 2016

Rural tourism has gone through an important development, but in the Czech Republic has only been possible to run a private business only in last 18 years. In Czech Republic that form of tourism is not very widespread, although there is great potential in it and the neighboring countries such as Austria or Germany are on a much higher level. For more intensive development and better competitiveness on the marker a proper education is necessary especially on the secondary level. An inquiry investigation has been provided. The responders were owners and operators of small businesses in rural tourism. The first part of the questionnaire was focused on the matters of ownership, running the business, promotion, internet services, etc. The subsequent part of the questionnaire gathered the information about the capacity of the places, the types and prices of accommodation, and the facilities. It also surveys the surroundings of the place – both natural and cultural sights.The survey has brought interesting facts about the level of the rural tourism of selected regions.The inquiry investigation was made by trained persons who gathered much information above the framework of the questionnaire. Many demands and complains were concerned with lack of specialized education, needs of new study programs and branches. There are many specifics of this branches, the most important is that there are more than 90% of micro firms. If we want to keep the special features of the rural tourism we have to prepare future entrepreneurs and employees in completely different way than those for big hotels, spas or congress centers. The contribution deals with the present status of rural tourism in Czech Republic and the educational need of the people involved.
Reducing consumption of food with high level of fat, sugar and/or salt among young generation
Authors: Szűcs Róbert Sándor , Csapó Zsolt
Published: June 2016

The young generation is the most influenced and vulnerable segment of the market. Food with high level of fat, sugar and/or salt are popularised for this segment.At the same time nearly 7 people die of obesity or from complications of obesity in Hungary each hour – one every 9 minutes. Less than 10% of youth are of the belief of eating healthy and more then one third of youth don’t take care about healthy eating. The young generation can be especially influenced by use of well-known persons, prize games and free gifts. The idea of fat tax’s introduction could be an obvious proposal.
Opportunities and obstacles of areabased partnerships in rural Hungary – main features of the operations of leader local action groups based on a nationwide survey
Authors: Kis Krisztián , Szekeresné Köteles Rita
Published: June 2016

Based on the results of our questionnaire survey, our study presents the major operational features of LEADER LAGs established in Hungary in the second half of 2007. Our national survey indicated that most of the partnerships established do not have experience in the implementation of community-based rural development programmes and there are no traditions and practices for development cooperation, which may cause problems as the success of programme implementation highly depends on the preparedness of local society, on the cooperation of local people. The survey indicates that the development of areas covered by LAGs is hindered by so-called soft factors characterizing human resources (rural people and communities). Therefore human resources are not only factors of the rural economy but areas for development as well. Having examined the tasks of LAGs,it can be established that they deem it to be their principal task to grant support funds.Inouropinion, performance of this task is obviously necessary but far from sufficient to fulfil their catalyst role expected in local developments. For this purpose, it is essential for action groups to play a proactive role in organizing and thereby increase the capacity of local communities, a prerequisite for implementing a LEADER programme. In accordance with the basic principle of subsidiarity, rural development should be implemented locally, managed by local communities, and decisions should be made at local levels in a decentralized manner. At the same time, the survey points out that LAGs operate under strong government influence and control, leading to the conclusion that the Hungarian practice of the LEADER programme is characterized by decentralization without subsidiarity. In the present structure, the activities of LAGs are predominantly financed from central resources.Administration is the primary goal of their financing, which restricts their effective and efficient operations, thereby the successful implementation of the LEADER programme. It is unquestionable that LAGs need to be centrally financed since their operation is fundamental for programme implementation, but this requires more than acting in their present role of distributing resources. In order for action groups to fulfil their real roles to boost local developments, they need to recognize their mission; and from the financing and regulatory side, they must be enabled to complete the tasks expected from them and their function.
World importance and present tendencies of dairy sector
Authors: Blaskó Beáta
Published: June 2016

The general objective of this paper is to present the world importance of dairy sector and to illustrate present tendency of milk production, consumption, trade and prices mainly based on FAO data base. World milk production was 711 million tonnes in 2010 and it is expected to increase in the future. The most significant milk producers are the EU(27), the United States and from the Asian countries, India and China. Developed countries give one-third of world milk production, while more than two-third of world dairy herd can be found in developing countries. Milk production growth is a future tendency mainly in China, India, Pakistan, Argentina and Brazil. The average level of consumption of milk and milk products is 103,6 kg/capita/year and it will increase in developing and developed countries as well. The ratio of international trade of milk and milk products to production is 6 percent and itmay expand in the future. New Zealand, the EU(27), theUnited States andAustralia are themajor exporters. There is a strong demand formilk andmilk products among others from the Asian countries, the Russian Federation,Algeria,Mexico, Saudi Arabia and the United States.Analysis of world market price of the most important dairy products it represents a strong recovery from last year, but it still remains 20 percent below its peak value in early 2008. However prices have doubled compared with prices of period of 2002–2004.
Organizational consequences of emotional labour in mangenent
Authors: Lazányi Kornélia
Published: June 2016

Emotional labour, as a self-contained field of research, is only three decades old. This study aims to summarize key findings from investigations of the last ten years in an attempt to provide a reference for interpretation of organizational emotions and the organizational aspects of emotional labour. It makes no secret of its aim being to call the attention of anybody dealing with people as workforce that work no longer has only physical or mental aspects, but an emotional dimension as well. Most often this latter dimension lives an independent life. Normally, it is not regulated, tracked, appreciated or rewarded properly, which might send a message to employees that it is not really important. However, emotional labour is a concomitant of most professions and jobs. Where it is not given any conscious consideration by either the employer nor its employees, numerous opportunities of making it easier or improving it may be lost.
Studies on the Effects of L-Prolinamide, 5-OXO-L-Prolyl-L-Phenylanyl-4-Hydroxy Compound Produced by Pseudomonas Fluorescence against Cell Wall Protein (3GNU Receptor) of Pythium SPP MTCC 10247
Authors: E. Jenisha E. , Rani Juneius C. Elizabeth , Vinoth Vinoth
Published: June 2016

The present study was carried out inorder to assess the biocontrol efficiency of Pseudomonas fluorescence against Pythium spp MTCC 10247.  The earlier studies have revealed its antifungal properties but the previous reports lack the details about the compounds and the target for the fungi. Hence we have designed our work plan to reveal the compounds present in the secondary metabolites of Pseudomonas fluorescence and the target on the phytopathogens Pythium spp MTCC 10247 which causes plant diseases. Production of secondary metabolites of     Pseudomonas fluorescence was carried out and the compounds were characterized by TLC, SDS-PAGE, and GC-MS. There were 7 peak compounds found out,  they are 1,4-diaza-2,5-dioxobicyclo[4.3.0] nonane (13,69%) , 3-isobutylhexahydropyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine-1,4-dione(10.11%), Pyrrolo[1,2-a] pyrazine 1,4dione,hexahydro-3-(2-methylpropyl(17.79%) l-Leucine,N-cyclopylcarbonyl-pentadecyl ester(7.09%), 3,6diisobutyl-2,5-piperazinedione (37.62%), 3-benzylhexahydropyrrolo[1,2-A]pyrazine-1,4-dione(8.52%), L-prolinamide, 5-oxo-l-prolyl-l-phenylanyl-4-hydroxy(5.19%). Antifungal activity of the ethyl acetate extract of the secondary metabolites were examined against Pythium spp MTCC 10247 and result revealed that the lag period of  the fungi was double fold higher than the control and the compounds were fungi static because there was a 57% of growth reduction after 7th day of incubation period.    All the seven compounds were used for molecular docking study and result showed higher score value with L-prolinamide, 5-oxo-l-prolyl-l-phenylanyl-4-hydroxy against cell wall protein (3GNU receptor) Pythium spp MTCC 10247.
Impact of Attitudes and Facilities in Effective Implementation of Guidance and Counselling Programmes in Selected Institutes of Technology in Nyanza Province, Kenya
Authors: Nyaundi Nyarangi Esther Okenyuri , Edwin Obwoge Makworo
Published: June 2016

Education systems in the world today are acting as the main agents for social change. Learners attending this systems are always away from their parents and other elderly people who would help them cope with challenges they face. This has necessitated inclusion of guidance and counselling department services in most institutions. In Kenya the government introduced this in all learning institutions. Even with this, students studying in Institutes of Technology in Nyanza province in Kenya display a host of problems ranging from poor academic performance to low self-esteem, which drive them to open drunkenness, skipping of classes, stealing other people’s property, sexual misconduct and actual or attempted suicide. The problems exist despite the fact that guidance and counselling programmes are in place in these institutions. The purpose of this study therefore was to establish the impact of attitudes and facilities in effective implementation of guidance and counselling programmes in the Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) institutions in Nyanza province. The study employed the descriptive survey research design. It was carried out in Moi Institute of Technology (MIT) and Gusii Institute of Technology (GIT). The target population constituted of principals, the teacher counsellors and the students of the two institutions. Each institution had two teacher counsellors. MIT had 600 students and GIT had 1800 students making a total of 2400. The sample size was made of 2 principals, 4 teacher counsellors and 240 students. Purposive sampling was used to select the principals and the teacher counsellors. Stratified random sampling and simple random sampling were used to select the student’s sample. Data was collected using questionnaires and it was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results of the study indicated that the major challenge facing effective implementation of guidance and counselling programs in the Institutes of Technology (ITs) was lack of sufficient facilities due to poor support by the principals and Board of Governors (BOG). The researcher therefore recommends that there is need for all principals of ITs in Nyanza to be taken through a thorough and informative training on the importance of giving full support to guidance and counselling programs in their institutions. There is also need to work towards changing the negative attitude towards guidance and counselling held by some students.
An Exploratory Study of DMIC Water Uses
Authors: Singh Arvind
Published: June 2016

Water availability for human consumption and other uses is a priority of any welfare government. Beside human consumption, water availability for industrial use has become a major challenge for the governments vying for rapid industrialization for achieving high growth rate and increasing employment opportunities. Drought prone state like Rajasthan faces an uphill task to manage its drinking water supply in lean years let alone providing enough water for its industries. With two third of DMIC project running through Rajasthan, it throws major challenge before authorities to manage water supply needed by the industries planned under DMIC. This paper throws light on the features of DMIC project in Rajasthan. in terms of land acquisition and demarcation by authorities, plans for water supply, management, recycle and reuse of water, tackling infrastructure impediments related to rehabilitation and resettlement and planning for proving a standard urban life to the people coming to work in the DMIC industrial zones. With all the emerging trends in Management, Science and Technology, proper water management offers not only multifaceted opportunities but also many challenges to overcome.  This paper identifies water as one of the biggest impediments in successful development of DMIC in Rajasthan. Though authorities have focused much on recycle and reuse of water besides bringing in water from Chambal river, flowing 250 KM away. However, the paper concludes that success of DMIC is going to depend on how authorities manages water need of the industry and people in the area in coming decades and current plans are not only too optimistic but may also result in disastrous failure of DMIC in Rajasthan.
Factors Influencing Trainee Career Choice in TVET Institutions in North Rift Kenya
Authors: Edwin Obwoge Makworo , James Kibor Singoei
Published: June 2016

Career choice has always been a very challenging venture for most students in their transition from secondary school to higher learning institutions in most countries. Many factors come to play including self-motivation, influence by peers, parents and even performance in high school examinations. In Kenya, enrolment in market driven courses like engineering and hospitality has remained below capacity despite efforts by the Kenya government to boost it. The main objective of this study was to determine the factors that influenced trainees in their career choice in TVET institutions in North Rift of Kenya with the aim of assisting TVET institutions gain strategies to address skewness witnessed in enrolment in market driven courses. Survey research design was adopted for the study. The population for the study constituted of students and TVET providers in the TVET institutions in North Rift Kenya. Stratified random sampling technique was used to group students into the respective courses undertaken in the TVET institutions and simple random sampling technique was applied to select 316 respondents proportionately from the different strata. Questionnaires were the main research instruments used in the collection of data. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS and results presented in tabular and graphical forms. The research findings showed that student’s career choice was influenced by seven main factors. Among the recommendations was that secondary schools should come up with a career sensitization programme each year to help learners be better informed on available careers and current trends in the job market.
Factors associated with retro-odontoid soft-tissue thickness in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Dohzono Sho , Suzuki Akinobu , Koike Tatsuya , Takahashi Shinji , Yamada Kentaro , Yasuda Hiroyuki , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: June 2016

OBJECTIVE

Increasing soft-tissue mass posterior to the odontoid process causes spinal cord compression. Retro-odontoid pseudotumors are considered to be associated with atlantoaxial instability in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but the exact mechanism by which these lesions develop has not been elucidated. The purpose of this study was to identify the relationships between retro-odontoid soft-tissue (ROST) thickness and radiological findings or clinical data in patients with RA.

METHODS

A total of 201 patients with RA who had been followed up at the outpatient clinic of the authors' institution were enrolled in this study. ROST thickness was evaluated on midsagittal T1-weighted MRI. The correlations between ROST thickness and radiographic findings or clinical data on RA were examined. The independent factors related to ROST thickness were analyzed using stepwise multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS

The average thickness of ROST was 3.0 ± 1.4 mm. ROST thickness showed an inverse correlation with disease duration (r = −0.329, p < 0.01), Steinbrocker stage (r = −0.284, p < 0.01), the atlantodental interval (ADI) in the neutral position (r = −0.326, p < 0.01), the ADI in the flexion position (r = −0.383, p < 0.01), and the ADI in the extension position (r = −0.240, p < 0.01). On stepwise multiple regression analysis, ADI in the flexion position and Steinbrocker stage were independent factors associated with ROST thickness.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the correlations were not strong, ROST thickness in patients with RA was inversely correlated with ADI and Steinbrocker stage. In other words, ROST thickness tends to be smaller as atlantoaxial instability and peripheral joint destruction worsen.

Clinical trial registration no.: UMIN000000980 (UMIN Clinical Trials Registry)
Gamma Knife radiosurgery for hemangioma of the cavernous sinus
Authors: Lee Cheng-Chia , Sheehan Jason P. , Kano Hideyuki , Akpinar Berkcan , Martinez-Alvarez Roberto , Martinez-Moreno Nuria , Guo Wan-Yuo , Lunsford L. Dade , Liu Kang-Du
Published: June 2016

OBJECTIVE

Cavernous sinus hemangiomas (CSHs) are rare vascular tumors. A direct microsurgical approach usually results in massive hemorrhage and incomplete tumor resection. Although stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) has emerged as a therapeutic alternative to microsurgery, outcome studies are few. Authors of the present study evaluated the role of SRS for CSH.

METHODS

An international multicenter study was conducted to review outcome data in 31 patients with CSH. Eleven patients had initial microsurgery before SRS, and the other 20 patients (64.5%) underwent Gamma Knife SRS as the primary management for their CSH. Median age at the time of radiosurgery was 47 years, and 77.4% of patients had cranial nerve dysfunction before SRS. Patients received a median tumor margin dose of 12.6 Gy (range 12–19 Gy) at a median isodose of 55%.

RESULTS

Tumor regression was confirmed by imaging in all 31 patients, and all patients had greater than 50% reduction in tumor volume at 6 months post-SRS. No patient had delayed tumor growth, new cranial neuropathy, visual function deterioration, adverse radiation effects, or hypopituitarism after SRS. Twenty-four patients had presented with cranial nerve disorders before SRS, and 6 (25%) of them had gradual improvement. Four (66.7%) of the 6 patients with orbital symptoms had symptomatic relief at the last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Stereotactic radiosurgery was effective in reducing the volume of CSH and attaining long-term tumor control in all patients at a median of 40 months. The authors' experience suggests that SRS is a reasonable primary and adjuvant treatment modality for patients in whom a CSH is diagnosed.
Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Chronic Pancreatitis with ERCP Correlation
Authors: Hussain Mahbuba , Alam Mohammed Shafiul , Yeasmin Fahmida , Dey Sharmistha , Karim Enayet , Kabir Mohosin , Sajjad Sarker Mohammad
Published: June 2016

Objective: This study was performed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of transabdominal ultrasonography in suspected patients of chronic pancreatitis correlating with ERCP.Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on patients with chronic pancreatitis in the department of radiology and imaging, in collaboration with department of Gastroenterology of BSMMU and BIRDEM from 1st June 2008 to 31st may 2009. Total 60 consecutive patients of different age groups referred for USG of upper abdomen with a suspicion of chronic pancreatitis. At first all the patients were evaluated by detail history and clinical examination. USG of pancreas was performed in all cases. Then all patients underwent ERCP in the Gastroenterology department. The ERCP reports were collected and correlated with USG findings. Among all patients 4 refused to do ERCP and 6 patients had ERCP cannulation failure. Finally, 50 patients were considered as study sample.Results:Sonographically abnormalities were detected in 43 (86%) cases; 1 of them was diagnosed as normal by ERCP. Out of 7 (14%) sonographically normal, 3 were proved normal by ERCP and 4 cases, which were missed by sonography, were diagnosed as chronic pancreatitis by ERCP. Sensitivity of ultrasonography in diagnosing chronic pancreatitis was 91.3% and specificity was 75%, positive predictive value was 97.7%, negative predictive value was 42.9% and accuracy was 90%.Conclusion: Ultrasonography has significant sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and accuracy in the diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis and we consider ultrasonography as an appropriate imaging tool for diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis.Birdem Med J 2015; 5(1): 5-8
Snake Bite as a Public Health Problem: Bangladesh Perspective
Authors: Alam ABM Saiful , Islam AKM Monwarul , Jesmin Humayra
Published: June 2016

Snake bite is an important but often under-recognized public health problem in Bangladesh, with an incidence density one of the highest in the world, which may be 623.4/100,000 person years. The proportion of poisonous snake bites is 10 to 45%, with the reported mortality 0.5 to 22%. Among the 82 species of snakes, 28 are venomous; bites by green pit vipers, cobras and kraits are the most commonly identified ones. High population density, widespread agricultural activities, numerous venomous snake species and lack of functional snake bite control programs favour the high burden of snake bites. Poorer rural populations are the main victims, imposing considerable socioeconomic impact. Treatment of snake bite is largely dominated by traditional snake charmers (Ozha) or Kaviraj offering unscientific practices and healers, causing undue delay and precluding standard medical management. Delayed presentation to the hospital, lack of availability of antivenom and modern management facility are the main causes of death. Antivenoms are entirely dependent on import, are expensive, and are not customized to local needs. Auxiliary intensive care facilities are not widely available; health care personnel often lack necessary expertise. However, the trend is changing. Public awareness is growing, health care personnel are being trained, and a national guideline for snake bite management has been formulated. Further research, introduction of modern diagnostic facilities, local manufacture of antivenom, and above all, integrated approach on the part of Government, policy-makers and international community can change the outlook of snake bite as a neglected tropical condition in Bangladesh.Birdem Med J 2015; 5(1): 24-29
Osteoporosis: A Review
Authors: Ferdous HS , Afsana Faria , Qureshi Nazmul Kabir , Rouf Rushda Sharmin Binte
Published: June 2016

Osteoporosis is a progressive systemic skeletal disease characterizedby reduced bone mass/density and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue. It is a silent disease as there are no symptoms prior to a fracture.The prevalence of osteoporosis increases markedly with age.DEXA is regarded as the gold standard technique for diagnosis of osteoporosis.Treatment for osteoporosis should include lifestyle measures including nutrition, exercise and measures to reduce falls. Adequate calcium intake and vitamin D should be provided.Effective pharmacological management strategies should always be implemented where necessary including bisphosphonate asAlendronate, Etidronate, Risedronate, andraloxifene, strontium ranelate and teriparatide. Postmenopausal osteoporosis may be treated with a bisphosphonate. If bisphosphonates are unsuitable then calcitriol may be considered.Estrogen should only be considered if there is significant risk for osteoporosis and other drugs are not suitable.New biologics agents, Denosumab and Odanacatib are approved for treatment of osteoporosis. Both target osteoclasts to rebalance bone loss and bone building.The prevention of osteoporosis should be considered in early life and should be continued by regular physical activity and a balanced diet.Birdem Med J 2015; 5(1): 30-36
Letter to the Editor Vol.5(1)
Authors: Chowdhury Md Nurul Ambia
Published: June 2016

Abstract not availableBirdem Med J 2015; 5(1): 62
The Magnitude of Hepatic Transaminase Rise and Its Correlation with the Severity of Dengue Fever
Authors: Afroz Farhana , Haque Hasna Fahmima , Afroze Samira Rahat , Rahim Muhammad Abdur , Ahmed Jamal Uddin , Hossain Mohammad Delwar , Rahman Md Raziur , Ahmed AKM Shaheen , Musa AKM , Uddin Khwaja Nazim
Published: June 2016

Background and Objective: Biochemical evidence of hepatic enzyme rise is very common in dengue fever. This study was designed to see the levels of elevated hepatic enzymes and their correlation with severity of dengue fever (DF).\Materials and Methods: It was an observational study conducted in the Department of Internal Medicine of BIRDEM Hospital, Dhaka, over a period of six months (July to December, 2010). Fifty serologically confirmed (IgM/IgM and IgG) dengue fever patients were included in the study.Results: Of the 50 patients, 32 (64%) were male and 18 (36%) were female. The mean age was 44.2 (21-54) years. Out of 50 cases, 23 (46%) cases had classical dengue fever, 20 (40%) had dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF) Grade I, 6 (12%) had DHF Grade II and 1 (2%) had DHF Grade III. Hepatic enzymes were raised in 47 (94%) cases. Mean aspartate aminotransferase (AST) was 98.77 U/L, mean alanine aminotransferase (ALT) was 88.09 U/L. In 46 (92%) cases AST was more than ALT. Enzyme rise was more in DHF (Grade III- mean AST 298 U/L, mean ALT 232 U/L, Grade II- mean AST 212.6 U/L, mean ALT 198.7 U/L, Grade I- mean AST 97.3 U/ L, mean ALT 86.2 U/L) than classical dengue fever (mean AST 61.7 U/L, mean ALT 54.9 U/L). Mean bilirubin was 1.82 mg/dl. No difference was observed between classical dengue fever and DHF regarding serum bilirubin level.Conclusion: The above results suggest that hepatic involvement in dengue fever is common and the amplitude of transaminase rise indicates the severity of the disease.Birdem Med J 2015; 5(2): 74-77
A Comparison of Allograft Survival Between Cyclosporine and Tacrolimus Based Immunosuppressive Therapy in Kidney Transplantation: BIRDEM General Hospital Experience
Authors: Mitra Palash , Rahman Md Anisur , Rahim Muhammad Abdur , Ananna Mehruba Alam , Samdani Tasrina Shamnaz , Sumon Ahmed Sharif , Akhtar Moontasim , Kabir Md Hasanul , Haque Mirza Shariful , Pappu Md Hedayetul Islam , Billah Md Mostarshid , Chowdhury Tufayel Ahmed , Haque Wasim Md Mohosinul , Iqbal Sarwar , Mansur Md Abul
Published: June 2016

Introduction and Aims: Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs), cyclosporine and tacrolimus, are one of the three major components of basic immunosuppressive therapy of kidney transplantation. Our aims were to study and compare the early and long-term graft survival in kidney transplant recipients who were receiving either of these two CNIs.Methods: A questionnaire was formed and data were collected from the hospital records. We divided the patients in group 1 (patients on cyclosporine) and group 2 (patients on tacrolimus). We retrospectively evaluated patients clinical and laboratory findings.Results: Group 1 included 50 patients who were on cyclosporine and group 2 included 61 patients who were on tacrolimus. Patients receiving tacrolimus showed almost similar renal function as cyclosporine receiving patients; serum creatinine was 1.27 ± 0.56 versus 1.42 ± 0.91mg/dL (p = 0.258), but they required less time for serum creatinine to become normal (4.71 ± 2.3 versus 7.26 ± 5.6 days, p=0.001) and less duration of post-transplant hospital stay (11.38 ± 3.33 versus 13.65 ± 5.0 days, p = 0.005). New onset diabetes was more pronounced in group 2 (29.5% versus 12 %, p = 0.025). On the other hand, acute rejection was only noted in group 1 (2 versus 0, p = 0.014). One-year and three-year graft survival for cyclosporine was 92.0% and 83.3%, and for tacrolimus was 96.2% and 89.2% respectively.Conclusions: Tacrolimus is relatively favourable to cyclosporine in preventing acute allograft rejection and better immediate post-transplant graft function recovery.Birdem Med J 2015; 5(2): 78-81
Chronic Liver Disease First Time Diagnosed During Pregnancy: A Case Report
Authors: Khanum Shakila , Khanam Khaleda , Ahmed Jamal Uddin
Published: June 2016

Pregnancy in women with chronic liver disease (CLD) or cirrhosis is rare as CLD usually causes infertility. With improved management of CLD, pregnancy in patients with CLD is likely to become more common. Pregnancy in a CLD patient is likely to be associated with increased fetal and maternal mortality & morbidity. Pregnancy outcome may be influenced by the underlying etiology and extent of liver disease. Here we describe the case of a pregnancy in a young woman with CLD first time detected during pregnancy that ultimately resulted in fetal death, but the mother survived after delivery.Birdem Med J 2015; 5(2): 107-110
Broad Ligament Fibroid: A Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Sultana Nahid , Jalil Masuma , Ferdous Fateha , Rahman Shahnaz , Begum Rahima
Published: June 2016

Leiomyomas are the commonest of all pelvic tumors. One-fifth women of reproductive age group suffer from this condition. Tumors of broad ligament are rare. Most common solid tumor of the broad ligament is a leiomyoma. It can originate from the uterus or broad ligament itself. Here, we report a case of broad ligament leiomyoma in a woman having secondary infertility and it posed a diagnostic dilemma.Birdem Med J 2015; 5(2): 116-118
BIRDEM News Vol.5(2)
Authors: Editor The
Published: June 2016

Abstract not availableBirdem Med J 2015; 5(2): 121-122
From the Desk of the Executive Editor Vol.5(2)
Authors: Uddin Khwaja Nazim
Published: June 2016

Abstract not availableBirdem Med J 2015; 5(2): 123
Answer to Medical Quiz: Images Vol. 5(2)
Authors: Saha Debasish Kumar , Saha Madhurima , Islam Reezwan
Published: June 2016

Abstract not availableBirdem Med J 2015; 5(2): 124