bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of News Talk Shows in Voting Behavior
Authors: Gautam Rishikesh Kumar
Published: September 2015

The main purpose of this paper is to find out the influence of News Talk Shows in creating political efficacy among educated youth. The researcher wants to measure the level of political efficacy, that is, level of awareness and level of political participation based on the fact that how much educated youth are influenced by News Talk Shows regarding politics. News Talk Shows are helpful in changing the political structure, political system and political development. Media is a lifeline of socialization. This Paper also develops a framework of political socialization in India. Public opinion is made in democracy by voting and responding to polls besides participating in elections. Special emphasis has been put on electioneering campaigns, voting behaviors and role of media in creating political awareness. Universe for the present study consists of Devi Ahilya University Students, Indore. The researcher has selected 100 samples in nineteen departments of this university.
Effects of individual, community, and landscape drivers on the dynamics of a wildland forest epidemic
Authors: Haas Sarah E. , Hall Cushman J. , Dillon Whalen W. , Rank Nathan E. , Rizzo David M. , Meentemeyer Ross K.
Published: September 2015

The challenges posed by observing host–pathogen–environment interactions across large geographic extents and over meaningful time scales limit our ability to understand and manage wildland epidemics. We conducted a landscape‐scale, longitudinal study designed to analyze the dynamics of sudden oak death (an emerging forest disease caused by Phytophthora ramorum) across hierarchical levels of ecological interactions, from individual hosts up to the community and across the broader landscape. From 2004 to 2011, we annually assessed disease status of 732 coast live oak, 271 black oak, and 122 canyon live oak trees in 202 plots across a 275‐km2 landscape in central California. The number of infected oak stems steadily increased during the eight‐year study period. A survival analysis modeling framework was used to examine which level of ecological heterogeneity best predicted infection risk of susceptible oak species, considering variability at the level of individuals (species identity, stem size), the community (host density, inoculum load, and species richness), and the landscape (seasonal climate variability, habitat connectivity, and topographic gradients). After accounting for unobserved risk shared among oaks in the same plot, survival models incorporating heterogeneity across all three levels better predicted oak infection than did models focusing on only one level. We show that larger oak trees (especially coast live oak) were more susceptible, and that interannual variability in inoculum production by the highly infectious reservoir host, California bay laurel, more strongly influenced disease risk than simply the density of this important host. Concurrently, warmer and wetter rainy‐season conditions in consecutive years intensified infection risk, presumably by creating a longer period of inoculum build‐up and increased probability of pathogen spillover from bay laurel to oaks. Despite the presence of many alternate host species, we found evidence of pathogen dilution, where less competent hosts in species‐rich communities reduce pathogen transmission and overall risk of oak infection. These results identify key parameters driving the dynamics of emerging infectious disease in California woodlands, while demonstrating how multiple levels of ecological heterogeneity jointly determine epidemic trajectories in wildland settings.
Phenolic content, antioxidant activities and stimulatory roles of citrus fruits on some lactic acid bacteria
Authors: Irkin Reyhan , Dogan Serap , Degirmencioglu Nurcan , Diken Mehmet , Guldas Metin
Published: September 2015

In this study, phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities in citrus fruits
and their peels were determined, and their stimulatory roles on some lactic
acid bacteria were investigated. Phenolic compounds in citrus fruits such as
mandarin, lemon, orange and grapefruit were determined either in the juices
or in the peel extracts. Total phenolic content was determined in a
spectrophotometer at 685 nm using the adapted Folin-Ciocalteu method. Total
flavonoid content was measured using LC/MS (liquid chromatography-mass
spectrometry). The effects of the fruit juices and peel extracts on the
selected lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus delbrueckii NRRL B5448, Lb.
casei NRRL B1922, Lb. acidophilus NRRL B4495) were investigated. The tested
lactic acid bacteria were significantly affected by chlorogenic acid,
hesperidin, naringin and caffeic acid compared to the control samples
(P?0.05). Antioxidant properties of fruit samples were also measured using
the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method. The phenolics positively
affected the metabolism of bacteria, with the stimulatory effects of the
assayed samples being influenced by the phenolic profile.
Antioxidant responses of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) seedlings to prolonged salt-induced stress
Authors: Kavas Musa , Akça Oya , Akçay Ufuk , Peksel Begüm , Eroğlu Seçkin , Öktem Hüseyin , Yücel Meral
Published: September 2015

In this study, the effects of long-term NaCl treatment were investigated in
two cultivars of peanut designated as drought-resistant and
drought-sensitive. Growth parameters, changes in the concentrations of MDA,
H2O2 and proline, and the activities of antioxidant enzymes were determined
under salinity stress. Growth parameters indicated the superiority of cv.
Florispan to cv. Gazipa?a under milder salinity stress treatment. However,
comparative analysis of the two cultivars showed that MDA, H2O2, ion leakage
levels and photosystem II activities were not significantly different, except
for the proline activity, which increased only in Florispan leaf tissues
under 100 mM salt treatment. Among the processes that govern the tolerance in
peanut tissues, proline level and the activity of glutathione reductase (GR)
appeared to be only components that play an important part in salt stress
protection.
Idiopathic sudden hearing loss: Oxidative status before and after corticoid treatment
Authors: Cavaleriu Bogdan , Mârţu Dan , Hriţcu Lucian , Manolache Oana , Rădulescu Luminiţa
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate antioxidant enzyme activities and
lipid peroxidation levels after systemic corticoid therapy (Solu-Medrol,
250mg/day, for 7 days). The effects of corticoid treatment on superoxide
dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity were investigated.
Fifteen patients diagnosed with sudden sensorineural hearing loss were
enrolled. Serum markers of oxidative stress were measured using
spectrophotometric methods. In ten cases, the SOD and GPX activities and
malondialdehyde (MDA) serum levels before and after corticoid treatment were
investigated. Corticoid treatment enhanced antioxidant activity by increasing
SOD and GPX activities and decreasing MDA serum levels.
Volumetric gas-liquid mass transfer coefficient in an external-loop airlift reactor with inserted membrane
Authors: Kojic Predrag , Sijacki Ivana , Lukic Natasa , Jovicevic Dragica , Popovic Svetlana , Petrovic Dragan
Published: September 2015

The effects of the inserted membrane in the downcomer of an external-loop
airlift reactor, the gas sparger type (single orifice and sinter plate) and
added alcohol (ethanol, n-butanol, or n-hexanol) on the volumetric gas-liquid
mass transfer coefficient (kLa) were studied. Due to the presence of the
membrane in the downcomer, kLa did not change significantly; the differences
were smaller than 10%. The highest values of the kLa were obtained using the
sinter plate. It was found that the addition of small amounts of alcohol
increased the mass transfer. Using our experimental results and the data of
other authors, the feed-forward back propagation neural network for
prediction of kLa in external-loop airlift reactors with alcohol solutions
was proposed.
Optimization of extraction conditions for secondary biomolecules from various plant species
Authors: Sibul Filip , Orcic Dejan , Svircev Emilija , Mimica-Dukic Neda
Published: September 2015

Extraction of plant secondary metabolites is an essential step in isolation
of natural products. Non-optimized extraction conditions can lead to losses,
degradation and modification of the biomolecules. In this paper, the
influence of different solvent mixtures, solvent amounts, temperature,
extraction time, and procedures for defatting on yield and profile of various
classes of secondary metabolites was investigated. Rumex alpinus was used for
the extraction of anthraquinones, Glycine max for isoflavonoids,
Chaerophyllum bulbosum for flavonoids and phenolic acids, Anthriscus
sylvestris for lignans and coumarins, alkaloids were extracted from Lupinus
albus and sesquiterpene lactones from Artemisia absinthium. Extraction
efficiency was evaluated by use of LC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS. The compromise
extraction solvent for all of the examined compounds is 80 % methanol, mixed
in ratio 13 : 1 with plant material. Maceration should last for six hours,
repeated four times with fresh solvent. Defatting of the extracts does not
lead to significant losses of the compounds of interest. It is acceptable to
use extraction and evaporation temperature of 60?C, while the extracts should
be stored in the dark, on -20?C.
Cone beam computed tomography evaluation of distance from cementoenamel junction to alveolar crest before and after nonextraction orthodontic treatment
Authors: Castro Luma O. , Castro Iury O. , de Alencar Ana Helena G. , Valladares-Neto José , Estrela Carlos
Published: September 2015

Objective: 

To evaluate the distance between the cementoenamel junction and the alveolar bone crest before and after orthodontic treatment using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Materials and Methods: 

The sample comprised 30 patients with Angle Class I malocclusion and mild to moderate crowding. The study database comprised dental CBCT scans obtained before and after orthodontic treatment. The distance between the cementoenamel junction to the bone crest of the buccal (n  =  720) and lingual (n  =  720) surfaces was measured in 24 teeth for each patient using a specific software tool (Xoran version 3.1.62). The Wilcoxon test was used for statistical analysis, and the level of significance was set at P < .05.

Results: 

The distance between the cementoenamel junction and the bone crest increased in 822 (57%) of the 1440 surfaces after orthodontic treatment. The buccal surface of the lower central incisors had the greatest frequency of increased distance (75%), and the lingual surface of lateral incisors had the lowest (40%). The distance between the cementoenamel junction and the alveolar bone crest was greater than 2 mm (alveolar bone dehiscence) in 162 (11%) of the 1440 surfaces before orthodontic treatment and in 279 (19%) after treatment.

Conclusions: 

The distance from the cementoenamel junction to the bone crest changed after orthodontic treatment; the distance was greater than 2 mm in 11% of the surfaces before treatment and in 19% after treatment.
In the Guise of STEM Education Reform
Authors: Weis Lois , Eisenhart Margaret , Cipollone Kristin , Stich Amy E. , Nikischer Andrea B. , Hanson Jarrod , Ohle Leibrandt Sarah , Allen Carrie D. , Dominguez Rachel
Published: September 2015

In this article, we present findings from a three-year comparative longitudinal and ethnographic study of how schools in two cities, Buffalo and Denver, have taken up STEM education reform, including the idea of “inclusive STEM-focused schools,” to address weaknesses in urban high schools with majority low-income and minority students. Although introduced with great fanfare, the data indicate that well-meaning efforts toward expanding opportunities in STEM-focused schools for low-income underrepresented minorities quickly dissolved. We focus on mechanisms that seem to underlie this dissolution and consider its contributions to short- and long-term inequalities.
Does College Teach Critical Thinking? A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Huber Christopher R. , Kuncel Nathan R.
Published: September 2015

Educators view critical thinking as an essential skill, yet it remains unclear how effectively it is being taught in college. This meta-analysis synthesizes research on gains in critical thinking skills and attitudinal dispositions over various time frames in college. The results suggest that both critical thinking skills and dispositions improve substantially over a normal college experience. Furthermore, analysis of curriculum-wide efforts to improve critical thinking indicates that they do not necessarily produce incremental long-term gains. We discuss implications for the future of critical thinking in education.
Editorial Vol.12(1)
Authors: Dayal Aruneshwari
Published: September 2015

Journal of Nepalgunj Medical College Vol.12(1) 2015: 1
Comparative Study of Two Different Techniques for Management of Dry Socket
Authors: Kansakar N , Mahendra H , Acharya S
Published: September 2015

Background: Dry socket is the most common post-operative complication following extraction of teeth. Various risk factors have been mentioned for this complication including gender, age, amount of trauma during extraction, difficulty of surgery, inappropriate irrigation, infection, smoking, and oral contraceptive use. Traditional treatment of dry socket require frequent visit of patient to the dental hospital and is very inconvenient to the patient.Objective: The aim of the study was to assess outcome of the treatment using two different techniques for the management of dry socket.Methods: Patients with dry socket were randomly distributed among two treatment groups (21 patients in each group). Group A received irrigation of socket with diluted hydrogen peroxide and zinc oxide eugenol dressing was given and patients were followed for following consecutive days by replacing dressing each day until the pain subsides. Group B received irrigation of socket with diluted hydrogen peroxide, sockets and surrounding gingival tissue were debrided to promote the re-establishment of blood clot. The gingival margins were meticulously sutured to protect the clot formation.Result 19 patients out of 21 in Group A, received two or more than two procedures to subside pain whereas in Group B, 19 out of 21 patients received just one procedure for successful treatment.Concusion: There is reduction in duration of treatment in debridement group of patients when compared with those treated traditionally.Journal of Nepalgunj Medical College Vol.12(1) 2014: 6-9
Pattern of Ocular Morbidity in Professional Intercity Vehicle Drivers of MidWest Tarai Belt of Nepal: A Cross Sectional Descriptive Study
Authors: Bastola P
Published: September 2015

Background: Visual function is very important in driving. The diseases of the ocular organs and its adnexa can adversely affect the visual functions of the driver, resulting into serious implications in road safety.Aim: Finding out the profile and pattern of ocular morbidity in professional intercity vehicle drivers of Mid West Tarai region of Nepal.Methodology: This was a cross sectional, descriptive, community/hospital based study carried out in two of the busiest bus parks of Mid West Tarai region of Nepal. All professional drivers with a valid government driving license who had been driving as professional drivers for more than 3 months were enrolled.Results: Of the 256 participants in the study, all of the professional drivers were males. In 162 (66.4%) of the study participants did not have ocular examination before issuing or during renewal of the driving license. More than 50% of ocular morbidity was due to dry eyes, ocular allergy, uncorrected refractive error and conjunctival degenerative conditions in all age groups. Presbyopia and cataract in subjects above 40 years accounted for 34 (13%) and 10(3.9%) respectively. 16(6.2%) of study participants were still driving with valid license despite having total color blindness.Conclusions: Every potential driver at first licensing and at renewals should be subjected to basic vision tests. Color vision test should be made prerequisite for all the drivers before issuing a government license. Those found to have visual impairment should be referred to ophthalmologists for detailed ocular evaluation and periodicocular examination.Journal of Nepalgunj Medical College Vol.12(1) 2014: 14-18
Simple Underlay Myringoplasty: A Prospective Study
Authors: Budhathoki B , Mishra SC , Sharma A
Published: September 2015

Background: Chronic otitis media (COM) is highly prevalent disease encountered by an otologist world wide and also in Nepal. Myringoplasty is the treatment of choice in many cases. There are various techniques of performing myringoplasty with various types of grafts. We propose Simple Underlay Myringoplasty (SUM) using fat graft. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of fat graft in closure of small dry central perforations by simple underlay myringoplasty (SUM) with aim to introduce SUM technique in this part of Nepal (Mid Western and Far Western Region).Methods: Young patients above 15 years of age with diagnosis of chronic otitis media, mucosal type with perforations smaller than 50% of tympanic membrane were included for fat graft myringoplasty. There were total 25 cases included for the study. All the cases were done under local anesthesia. A large single piece of fat, approximately double the size of perforation was harvested from the posterior side of ear lobule. The margin of perforation was freshened. The fat was placed like a dumbbell, equal portion lies medial and lateral to the perforation. Graft uptake results were evaluated after 4 weeks.Results: Graft uptake was successful in 23 patients (92%).Conclusion: The technique avoids extensive middle ear manipulation and it is safe, simpler procedure for the closure of a dry small central perforation. Its success rate is as good as myringoplasty using temporalis fascia in small central perforations.Journal of Nepalgunj Medical College Vol.12(1) 2014: 19-21
Prevalence of Obesity Among Type 2 Diabetes Patients Attending Diabetic Clinic in Nepalgunj Medical College Teaching Hospital
Authors: Parajuli J , Swar NB , Khadka D , Thapa N
Published: September 2015

Background: Obesity and type 2 diabetes constitute major public health issues in modern societies worldwide. These two forms frequently coexist, and statistics show that 60–90% of all patients with type 2 diabetes are or have been obese. Obesity is generally considered to be a strong risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus in future.Objectives: This study aims to assess the prevalence of obesity among type 2 diabetes patients attending diabetic clinic in Nepalgunj Medical College Teaching Hospital.Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at NGMCTH, kohalpur, Nepal during the period from October 2013 to March 2014. The present study comprised of a total of 385 type 2 diabetic subjects whose BMI was measured during the visit to the diabetic clinic. Respondents' height, weight, age, sex and duration of diabetes were taken as the study variable.Results: Out of total, 51.4% were female and 48.6% were male who attended the clinic. The mean age of the study population was 56.20±11.95 (95% CI; 54.47-57.92) of which 38% were overweight, 4.2% were obese and 55.8% had normal BMI. The proportion of overweight in total population is 37.1% where female type 2 diabetes proportion (41.4%) was comparatively higher than male(32.6%). 4.2 % of the total type 2 diabetes were obese and above(p=0.014).Conclusions: High prevalence of overweight and obesity in type 2 diabetics is associated with other serious complications. Ways to control prevent obesity and overweight should be stressed and made known to people of all ages in the population.Journal of Nepalgunj Medical College Vol.12(1) 2014: 25-28
Spectrum of Changes in Gastric Mucosa with Helicobacter Pylori Infection
Authors: Ghimire PG , Ghimire P , Goel RG , Bahl DV
Published: September 2015

Aim: To evaluate the spectrum of mucosal changes in endoscopy guided gastric biopsies and analyze the association of Helicobacter pylori with demographic factors.Materials and Methods: It was a cross sectional analytical study conducted in the Department of Pathology during the period from December 2011 to April 2012. A total of 52 endoscopic biopsy specimens, each fulfilling the inclusive criteria were selected and processed using standard histopathological technique and stained with Haematoxylin-Eosin stain and modified Giemsa stain for Helicobacter pylori. Histopathological, ultrasonographic and endoscopic findings were correlated. Data were analyzed using SPSS 17.Results: Out of 52 cases enrolled in our study, 29 (55.8%) were males and 23 (44.2%) were females with a male: female ratio of 1.2:1. H. pylori infection was present in 16 (30.8 %) of biopsies and was significantly greater in the younger age group between 21 to 40 years (p value <0.024). Histopathological examination showed atrophy of the gastric mucosa in 18 (34.6%) cases, dysplasia in one and intestinal metaplasia in three cases. Statistically significant relation (p value < 0.006) was seen between H. pylori and mucosal atrophy. No significant association was seen between gender and presence of H. pylori in the gastric mucosa (p value < 0.16).Conclusions: Histopathological study of endoscopic biopsy showed spectrum of changes in symptomatic cases. H pylori was seen significantly in younger age with atrophy of gastric mucosa as a significant finding.Journal of Nepalgunj Medical College Vol.12(1) 2014: 29-31
Immediate Outcome of Vlbw And Elbw Babies in a Tertiary Care Center of Nepal
Authors: Acharya N , Mishra P , Shrestha N , Gupta V
Published: September 2015

Background: Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW) infants weigh <1500 grams and Extremely Low Birth Weight (ELBW) infants weigh <1000 grams. They are predominantly premature but may also be associated with Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR). The VLBW rate is an accurate predictor of infant mortality rate.Objective: The study was aimed to find out the hospital incidence of VLBW and ELBW babies and outcome of these babies, till they were discharged from the hospital/NICU.Methods: A descriptive study was conducted among 109 cases who weighed less than 1500 grams. The babies were evaluated for mortality and various morbidities till they were discharged from the hospital. Descriptive statistics was applied using SPSS 21.0 to show antenatal profile and immediate outcome. Results: Out of 109 cases, ELBW were 30.2% and VLBW were 69.8%. Among the ELBW babies, 30.3% survived and 75% in VLBW. The mortality rate in ELBW and VLBW babies were 69.7% and 25% respectively. Among the ELBW, common morbidities were NNJ (94%), Presumed NNS (87.8%), RDS (82.6%), Hypoglycemia (56.5%), Hypothermia (26%), Birth Asphyxia (15.1%). In the VLBW group, common morbidities were Presumed NNS (86.4%), NNJ (82%), RDS (46.5%), Hypoglycemia (30.2%). The mean duration of hospital stay was 8.6 days (SD ± 3.38).Conclusions: Common immediate morbidities were NNS, RDS, Hypothermia, Anemia, Shock, CHD, Birth Asphyxia and NEC. Well trained staff in the NICU and medical facilities like availability of Surfactant therapy, more number of mechanical ventilators could improve the survival of these babies in our setting.Journal of Nepalgunj Medical College Vol.12(1) 2014: 32-34
Hydatid Cyst of Breast: A Case Report
Authors: Alam F , Goel RG
Published: September 2015

Hydatid cyst is a zoonotic disease which occurs due to infectivity with larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus. The disease is chronic and cysts can be lodged in different organs. It has cosmopolitan distribution and impact health and economical challenges for many countries throughout the world. The location of the disease is mostly in the liver and lungs. Hydatid disease of breast is extremely rare. A case report of 24 year female with the diagnosis of the hydatid breast is described in detail. The patient presented with painless lump in the upper inner quadrant of right breast of two months duration. History of trauma, pus discharge, itching, weight loss, fever or hormonal therapy were absent. The patient was diagnosed preoperatively as cysticercosis right breast by fine needle aspiration cytology based on the laboratory results conducted outside the hospital. However, histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of hydatid breast. It is the second diagnosed case in Nepal. Therefore, accurate information on the distribution of the disease is first step for the control and prevention. Only few reports are published in the literature about breast hydatid cyst.Thus, we want to emphasize the importance of keeping hydatid disease in differential diagnosis of cystic breast lesions, particularly in endemic region, where the disease could mimic fibroadenoma, phyllodes tumors, chronic abscesses.Journal of Nepalgunj Medical College Vol.12(1) 2014: 41-42
Management of bilateral microspherophakia with secondary angle closure glaucoma
Authors: Malik K PS , Goel R , Jain K , Nagpal S , Singh S
Published: September 2015

Background: Microspherophakia is characterized by lenticular myopia, late development of lens dislocation, shallow anterior chamber and angle-closure glaucoma. If it is associated with angle closure glaucoma, the management can be challenging.Objective: To report the management of a case of bilateral secondary angle closure glaucoma with isolated microspherophakia and right subluxated lens in a middle aged lady. Case: A 47-year-old female presented with bilateral secondary angle closure glaucoma with isolated microspherophakia, right subluxated lens and left operated trabeculectomy. The patient`s best corrected log mar visual acuity improved from 1.0 to 0.2 and intraocular pressure (IOP) decreased from 24.9mm of Hg to lower teens following lensectomy with scleral ¿xation of posterior chamber intraocular lens in the right eye. The left eye IOP remained in mid teens without medication in two year follow up. Conclusion: This case demonstrates that microspherophakia should be ruled out even in middle aged patients presenting as angle closure glaucoma. The possibility of thickened cornea must be kept in mind requiring an IOP correction. Lensectomy with scleral ¿xation of posterior chamber IOL provides a satisfactory recovery of visual acuity and IOP control. Though in this patient, the lens was held in position by posterior synechiae in the left eye, future stability of zonules needs to be monitored.
A new combined surgical approach in a patient with microspherophakia and developmental iridocorneal angle anomaly
Authors: Satana B , Altan C , Basarir B , Alkin Z , Yilmaz OF
Published: September 2015

Backround: We describe a patient with microspherophakia due to Weill-Marchesani syndrome accompanied by developmental angle anomaly who was successfully treated with a surgery of combined PPL and goniotomy.Case: We report ocular findings of a 1-year-old girl who was diagnosed with Weill-Marchesani syndrome with a positive family history of glaucoma in her cousins and glaucoma with anterior segment dysgenesis in her older brother. Anterior segment examination revealed clear corneas with 13 mm horizontal diameter in the right and 12.5 mm in the left and very shallow anterior chambers centrally and peripherally in both eyes. Although axial lengths were 18.9 mm in the right and 19.1 mm in the left eye, cycloplegic refractive errors were -7.75 DS (-2.75 at 1800) in the right eye and -8.50 DS (-2,75 at 1800) in the left eye. Intraocular pressures were 34 mmHg in the right and 38 mmHg in the left eye.Observation: Following pars plana lensectomy, gonioscopy revealed developmental iridocorneal angle anomaly and goniotomy was performed at the same session. During 3 years of follow-up, the patient experienced no complications. IOP was 12 mmHg without medication in the last visit; cup-to-disc ratio and corneal diameters were stable. Conclusion: The coexistent microspherophakia and developmental iridocorneal angle anomaly can be successfully treated with combined pars plana lensectomy and goniotomy.
Disclosures in Local Healthcare Organizations' Social Reports. ‘What?' and ‘Why?' An Empirical Analysis of the Italian National Healthcare System
Authors: Bonollo Elisa
Published: September 2015

In recent years, public administration reform and the increase in information requests from citizens has drawn attention to the issue of reporting information (other than ‘financial'). Local healthcare organizations, as well as public administrations, have been affected by these developments. This paper presents the results of content analysis conducted on social reports published by Italian local healthcare organizations from 2009-2013 with the purpose of verifying the actual significance of the elements that according to the literature and standard setters, should define the scope and content of social reporting. The study highlights the fact that the healthcare organizations analysed tend to focus on the type and volume of the services provided, while neglecting the connection between predefined objectives and actual performance - as well as stakeholder engagement in the social reporting process. Social reports have the role therefore of being merely a tool for unidirectional communication by the healthcare organization to its stakeholders.
Graphical Reporting in Italian Annual Reports during the Financial Crisis: Impression Management or Incremental Information?
Authors: Aresu Simone
Published: September 2015

This paper investigates whether, before and during the global financial crisis, Italian firms have used financial key performance indicators graphs in the annual reports as impression management tools, to portray a more favourable picture of the firm's performance than is warranted. This study shows that, during the financial crisis, firms have increased the number of graphs and decreased favourable distortions, although graphs continued to be designed inaccurately. The findings could reflect an increased public scrutiny on the firm's performance, during the financial crisis. As a theoretical implication, this paper contributes to the existent financial reporting literature by showing that graphs are not necessarily used in line with an agency theory-based impression management, which is the dominant perspective to explain the graphs' usage in the annual reports during periods of performance upturn. Moreover, it shows that the institutional context can affect voluntary disclosure practices at a firm-level. As a practical implication, this study suggests to annual reports' readers not to necessarily consider managers as self-serving preparers in their graphical reporting strategies. The study also suggests accounting associations, audit firms and other regulatory bodies to create a set of guidelines for a correct graph's use and design.
Dialogue with standard setters. Business Combinations under Common Control: Concerns, Criticisms and Strides
Authors: Fiume Raffaele , Onesti Tiziano , Romano Mauro , Taliento Marco
Published: September 2015

Although excluded from the scope of IFRS 3, business combinations under common control (BCUCCs) are widespread transactions that take place all over the world in different forms, often as a reorganization or restructuring among related parties. These transactions occur when entities are ultimately - not transiently - controlled by the same party/ies before and after the combination (which is neither a capital market nor an arm's length transaction and devoid of economic substance: indeed, no change of control is entailed). The scarce and fragmentary literature, not to mention the lack of clear consensus on the topic, contributes to the prevailing concerns on how to account for BCUCCs. In this complex context, the purpose of this work is to assess the possible and various accounting methods and identify the most suitable, accredited and consistent techniques.
Tall Buildings and Elevators: A Review of Recent Technological Advances
Authors: Al-Kodmany Kheir
Published: September 2015

Efficient vertical mobility is a critical component of tall building development and construction. This paper investigates recent advances in elevator technology and examines their impact on tall building development. It maps out, organizes, and collates complex and scattered information on multiple aspects of elevator design, and presents them in an accessible and non-technical discourse. Importantly, the paper contextualizes recent technological innovations by examining their implementations in recent major projects including One World Trade Center in New York; Shanghai Tower in Shanghai; Burj Khalifa in Dubai; Kingdom Tower in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; and the green retrofit project of the Empire State Building in New York. Further, the paper discusses future vertical transportation models including a vertical subway concept, a space lift, and electromagnetic levitation technology. As these new technological advancements in elevator design empower architects to create new forms and shapes of large-scale, mixed-use developments, this paper concludes by highlighting the need for interdisciplinary research in incorporating elevators in skyscrapers.
Therapy for BRAFi-Resistant Melanomas: Is WNT5A the Answer?
Authors: Prasad Chandra , Mohapatra Purusottam , Andersson Tommy
Published: September 2015

In recent years, scientists have advocated the use of targeted therapies in the form of drugs that modulate genes and proteins that are directly associated with cancer progression and metastasis. Malignant melanoma is a dreadful cancer type that has been associated with the rapid dissemination of primary tumors to multiple sites, including bone, brain, liver and lungs. The discovery that approximately 40%–50% of malignant melanomas contain a mutation in BRAF at codon 600 gave scientists a new approach to tackle this disease. However, clinical studies on patients have shown that although BRAFi (BRAF inhibitors) trigger early anti-tumor responses, the majority of patients later develop resistance to the therapy. Recent studies have shown that WNT5A plays a key role in enhancing the resistance of melanoma cells to BRAFi. The focus of the current review will be on melanoma development, signaling pathways important to acquired resistance to BRAFi, and why WNT5A inhibitors are attractive candidates to be included in combinatorial therapies for melanoma.
NAD+-Metabolizing Ectoenzymes in Remodeling Tumor–Host Interactions: The Human Myeloma Model
Authors: Horenstein Alberto , Chillemi Antonella , Quarona Valeria , Zito Andrea , Roato Ilaria , Morandi Fabio , Marimpietri Danilo , Bolzoni Marina , Toscani Denise , Oldham Robert , Cuccioloni Massimiliano , Sasser A. , Pistoia Vito , Giuliani Nicola , Malavasi Fabio
Published: September 2015

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is an essential co-enzyme reported to operate both intra- and extracellularly. In the extracellular space, NAD+ can elicit signals by binding purinergic P2 receptors or it can serve as the substrate for a chain of ectoenzymes. As a substrate, it is converted to adenosine (ADO) and then taken up by the cells, where it is transformed and reincorporated into the intracellular nucleotide pool. Nucleotide-nucleoside conversion is regulated by membrane-bound ectoenzymes. CD38, the main mammalian enzyme that hydrolyzes NAD+, belongs to the ectoenzymatic network generating intracellular Ca2+-active metabolites. Within this general framework, the extracellular conversion of NAD+ can vary significantly according to the tissue environment or pathological conditions. Accumulating evidence suggests that tumor cells exploit such a network for migrating and homing to protected areas and, even more importantly, for evading the immune response. We report on the experience of this lab to exploit human multiple myeloma (MM), a neoplastic expansion of plasma cells, as a model to investigate these issues. MM cells express high levels of surface CD38 and grow in an environment prevalently represented by closed niches hosted in the bone marrow (BM). An original approach of this study derives from the recent use of the clinical availability of therapeutic anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in perturbing tumor viability and enzymatic functions in conditions mimicking what happens in vivo.
Wavelet Entropy as a Measure of Ventricular Beat Suppression from the Electrocardiogram in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Langley Philip
Published: September 2015

A novel method of quantifying the effectiveness of the suppression of ventricular activity from electrocardiograms (ECGs) in atrial fibrillation is proposed. The temporal distribution of the energy of wavelet coefficients is quantified by wavelet entropy at each ventricular beat. More effective ventricular activity suppression yields increased entropies at scales dominated by the ventricular and atrial components of the ECG. Two studies are undertaken to demonstrate the efficacy of the method: first, using synthesised ECGs with controlled levels of residual ventricular activity, and second, using patient recordings with ventricular activity suppressed by an average beat template subtraction algorithm. In both cases wavelet entropy is shown to be a good measure of the effectiveness of ventricular beat suppression.
Challenges for Educational Technologists in the 21st Century
Authors: Mayes Robin , Natividad Gloria , Spector J.
Published: September 2015

In 1972, Edsger Dijkstra claimed that computers had only introduced the new problem of learning to use them effectively. This is especially true in 2015 with regard to powerful new educational technologies. This article describes the challenges that 21st century educational technologists are, and will be, addressing as they undertake the effective integration of new technologies into K-12 educational systems and learning environments. The expanding Internet, ever more powerful mobile devices, and other innovations make the task of designing effective formal and informal learning challenging, especially in light of the high rate of change in these new technologies. While these technologies introduce many benefits, they are also causing serious threats to system security and personal privacy. Furthermore, as these technologies continue to evolve, ethical issues such as equal access to resources become imperative. Educational technologists must expand their forward-thinking leadership and planning competencies so as to ensure effective use of new technologies.
Organic Optical Sensor Based on Monolithic Integration of Organic Electronic Devices
Authors: Tam Hoi , Choi Wing , Zhu Furong
Published: September 2015

A novel organic optical sensor that integrates a front organic light-emitting diode (OLED) and an organic photodiode (OPD) is demonstrated. The stripe-shaped cathode is used in the OLED components to create light signals, while the space between the stripe-shaped cathodes serves as the detection window for integrated OPD units. A MoO3 (5 nm)/Ag (15 nm) bi-layer inter-electrode is interposed between the vertically stacked OLED and OPD units, serving simultaneously as the cathode for the front OLED and an anode for the upper OPD units in the sensor. In the integrated sensor, the emission of the OLED units is confined by the area of the opaque stripe-shaped cathodes, optimized to maximize the reflected light passing through the window space for detection by the OPD components. This can ensure high OLED emission output, increasing the signal/noise ratio. The design and fabrication flexibility of an integrated OLED/OPD device also has low cost benefits, and is light weight and ultra-thin, making it possible for application in wearable units, finger print identification, image sensors, smart light sources, and compact information systems.
Effective Local-Global Upscaling of Fractured Reservoirs under Discrete Fractured Discretization
Authors: Li Junchao , Lei Zhengdong , Qin Guan , Gong Bin
Published: September 2015

The subsurface flow in fractured reservoirs is strongly affected by the distribution of fracture networks. Discrete fracture models, which represent all fractures individually by unstructured grid systems, are thus developed and act as a more accurate way for fractured reservoir simulation. However, it is usually not realistic to directly apply discrete fracture models to simulate field scale models for efficiency reasons. There is a need for upscaling techniques to coarsen the high resolution fracture descriptions to sizes that can be accommodated by reservoir simulators. In this paper, we extended the adaptive local-global upscaling technique to construct a transmissibility-based dual-porosity dual-permeability model from discrete fracture characterizations. An underlying unstructured fine-scale grid is firstly generated as a base grid. A global coarse-scale simulation is performed to provide boundary conditions for local regions and local upscaling procedures are carried out in every local region for transmissibility calculations. Iterations are performed until the consistency between the global and local properties is achieved. The procedure is applied to provide dual-porosity dual-permeability (DPDK) parameters including coarse-scale matrix-matrix, fracture-fracture and matrix-fracture flux transmissibilities. The methodology is applied to several cases. The simulation results demonstrate the accuracy, efficiency and robustness of the proposed method.
A New Application of the Multi-Resonant Zero-Current Switching Buck Converter: Analysis and Simulation in a PMSG Based WECS
Authors: Freitas Tiara , Menegáz Paulo , Simonetti Domingos
Published: September 2015

A new application of the three-phase buck-resonant converter is presented in this paper. It is shown that the analyzed converter is suitable to operate as the rectifier stage in low power wind energy conversion systems (WECS) based on permanent magnet synchronous generators (PMSG) with variable wind speed. As main features, it presents a single controlled switch, simple implementation and control, and operates with a high power factor and low harmonic distortion over all wind speed ranges. The converter topology, its design equations and its operation are presented, as well as the simulation results of the PMSG based conversion system. From the analysis carried out in the paper it is concluded that the converter is indicated to be employed in distributed generation and hybrid systems where wind generation is associated with other sources.
A Mathematical Model and Its Application for Hydro Power Units under Different Operating Conditions
Authors: Yang Weijia , Yang Jiandong , Guo Wencheng , Zeng Wei , Wang Chao , Saarinen Linn , Norrlund Per
Published: September 2015

This paper presents a mathematical model of hydro power units, especially the governor system model for different operating conditions, based on the basic version of the software TOPSYS. The mathematical model consists of eight turbine equations, one generator equation, and one governor equation, which are solved for ten unknown variables. The generator and governor equations, which are different under various operating conditions, are presented and discussed in detail. All the essential non-linear factors in the governor system (dead-zone, saturation, rate limiting, and backlash) are also considered. Case studies are conducted based on one Swedish hydro power plant (HPP) and three Chinese plants. The simulation and on-site measurements are compared for start-up, no-load operation, normal operation, and load rejection in different control modes (frequency, opening, and power feedback). The main error in each simulation is also discussed in detail. As a result, the model application is proved trustworthy for simulating different physical quantities of the unit (e.g., guide vane opening, active power, rotation speed, and pressures at volute and draft tube). The model has already been applied effectively in consultant analyses and scientific studies.
Towards a European Framework to Monitor Infectious Diseases among Migrant Populations: Design and Applicability
Authors: Riccardo Flavia , Dente Maria , Kärki Tommi , Fabiani Massimo , Napoli Christian , Chiarenza Antonio , Rossi Paolo , Munoz Cesar , Noori Teymur , Declich Silvia
Published: September 2015

There are limitations in our capacity to interpret point estimates and trends of infectious diseases occurring among diverse migrant populations living in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA). The aim of this study was to design a data collection framework that could capture information on factors associated with increased risk to infectious diseases in migrant populations in the EU/EEA. The authors defined factors associated with increased risk according to a multi-dimensional framework and performed a systematic literature review in order to identify whether those factors well reflected the reported risk factors for infectious disease in these populations. Following this, the feasibility of applying this framework to relevant available EU/EEA data sources was assessed. The proposed multidimensional framework is well suited to capture the complexity and concurrence of these risk factors and in principle applicable in the EU/EEA. The authors conclude that adopting a multi-dimensional framework to monitor infectious diseases could favor the disaggregated collection and analysis of migrant health data.
Comments on Hardell and Carlberg Increasing Rates of Brain Tumors in the Swedish National Inpatient Register and the Causes of Death Register. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12, 3793–3813
Authors: Ahlbom Anders , Feychting Maria , Holmberg Lars , Johansson Lars , Mathiesen Tiit , Pettersson David , Schüz Joachim , Talbäck Mats
Published: September 2015

Hardell and Carlberg claim in a recent article that both the Cause of Death Register and the National Inpatient Care Register indicate that there was a severe and increasing underreporting of malignant brain tumors to the Swedish Cancer Register during recent years [1]. [...]
Assessment of River Habitat Quality in the Hai River Basin, Northern China
Authors: Ding Yuekui , Shan Baoqing , Zhao Yu
Published: September 2015

We applied a river habitat quality (RHQ) assessment method to the Hai River Basin (HRB); an important economic centre in China; to obtain baseline information for water quality improvement; river rehabilitation; and watershed management. The results of the assessment showed that the river habitat in the HRB is seriously degraded. Specifically; 42.41% of the sites; accounting for a river length of 3.31 × 104 km; were designated poor and bad. Habitat in the plain areas is seriously deteriorated; and nearly 50% of the sites; accounting for a river length of 1.65 × 104 km; had either poor or bad habitats. River habitat degradation was attributable to the limited width of the riparian zone (≤5 m); lower coverage of riparian vegetation (≤40%); artificial land use patterns (public and industrial land); frequent occurrence of farming on the river banks and high volumes of solid waste (nearly 10 m3); single flow channels; and rare aquatic plants (≤1 category). At the regional scale; intensive artificial land use types caused by urbanization had a significant impact on the RHQ in the HRB. RHQ was significantly and negatively correlated with farmland (r = 1.000; p < 0.01) and urban land (r = 0.998; p < 0.05); and was significantly and positively correlated with grassland and woodland (r = 1.000; p < 0.01). Intensive artificial land use; created through urbanization processes; has led to a loss of the riparian zone and its native vegetation; and has disrupted the lateral connectivity of the rivers. The degradation of the already essentially black rivers is exacerbated by poor longitudinal connectivity (index of connectivity is 2.08–16.56); caused by reservoirs and sluices. For river habitat rehabilitation to be successful; land use patterns need to be changed and reservoirs and sluices will have to be regulated.