bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of GSP-Aided Instruction
Authors: Tai Chin-Hsiu , Leou Shian , Hung Jeng-Fung
Published: September 2017

The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the Geometer's Sketchpad (GSP) in teaching the area of triangles to elementary students. The authors adopted a pretest-posttest research design with 2 equivalent groups. The subjects of the experiment comprised fifth-grade students from an elementary school in Pingtung County, divided into an experimental group of 26 students and a control group of 25 students. Both groups attended six 40-min lessons over a month, with the experimental group receiving GSP-aided instruction and the control group receiving traditional lecture instruction. The authors revised the test instrument based on , and the instrument was further reviewed and revised by experts. They conducted a third revision of the contents after performing a pilot test. The difficulty index of the test ranged between 0.18 and 1, and the discrimination index ranged between 0.13 and 0.88. The split-half reliability of the test was 0.8723. The results revealed the following: (a) in learning the area of triangles, the experimental group performed significantly better than the control group; (b) the results of the formative assessments indicated a superior performance in the experimental group compared with the control group in all of the lessons, with the exception of the second lesson; and (c) the male and female students in the experimental group and the control group exhibited no significant differences. Based on these results, the authors suggest that students be offered the opportunity to use concrete teaching aids or computer simulations when learning the area of triangles.
Case Studies of Scaffolded On-Line Inquiry in Primary and Secondary Classrooms
Authors: Sheffield Rachel , Quinton Geoff
Published: September 2017

The chapter examines the alignment of science inquiry skills to the information literacy framework (Bent & Stubbings, 2011) and considers how these skills were supported by a range of web 2.0 tools using the TPACK framework to create an on-line scaffolded inquiry in two school contexts. Two case studies of inquiry around the pedagogy of ICT skills are examined here; one study in six grade seven high school classes and the other in a single extension group of twenty-five primary students from grade five to grade seven. In addition the affordances and limitations of the technology tools are assessed to determine how the scaffolded on-line inquiry process could be implemented in schools. In conclusion the chapter describes how in these cases, scaffolded on-line inquiry provides an opportunity for students to create an authentic, rich and detailed inquiry around their focus utilising a range of ICT tools and strategies.
A Theoretical and Methodological Approach to Examine Young Learners' Cognitive Engagement in Science Learning
Authors: Tsai Meng-Fang , Jang Syh-Jong
Published: September 2017

Children start learning science in formal school settings as early as kindergarten ages. Scientific literacy is an essential component in forming science curriculum for students' knowledge and understanding of scientific concepts across grades and with different scientific disciplines. Students' cognitive engagement is displayed through different levels of cognitive processes involved during their knowledge construction. Much of the research in students' cognitive engagement of science learning focuses on older students and the use of self-report measures on their cognitive strategies. Research on young learners' cognitive engagement in science learning is missing in current literature. Part of the reason may be young learners are just beginning to develop a repertoire of cognitive strategies as well as lacking sufficient linguistic competence to accurately articulate the cognitive strategies involved in their science learning. The chapter introduces a theoretical and methodological approach, quantitative content analysis, to fulfill the gap. The chapter manifests the approach through three perspectives: (a) methodological approaches being employed in current studies of cognitive engagement in science learning, (b) the need for a different methodological approach for young learners, and (c) how this particular approach can be adopted in future research on young learners' cognitive engagement in science learning.
Using ICT in STEM Education
Authors: Hérold Jean-François , Ginestié Jacques
Published: September 2017

The aim of this paper is to examine the use of digital technologies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Education (STEM). We will discuss the effectiveness of the teaching-learning process in terms of the elements that could possibly promote learning with the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in STEM education. This will be done, first, by taking a learner-centred approach to an activity that students carried out using ICT to performing a task set by the teacher (cognitive engagement in the task, motivation, nature of knowledge built). The aim was to understand how ICT could be a cognitive aid for the student. Second, a teacher-centred perspective to the development of prescribed tasks (form, knowledge carried by the task) was used to identify how ICT can be adapted to aid student learning in STEM education.
An Interdisciplinary Exploration of the Climate Change Issue and Implications for Teaching STEM Through Inquiry
Authors: Urban Michael J. , Marker Elaine , Falvo David A.
Published: September 2017

The importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, and teaching through an inquiry approach, are critical facets in education today. The purpose of this chapter is to share useful observations and recommendations about teaching STEM through inquiry for practicing teachers. Three cases are used to collect data about participant interactions with an interdisciplinary activity related to climate change, human population growth, and atmospheric pollution (e.g., greenhouse gases and smog). Fifty-five participants, most of whom were pre-service teachers, completed a technology-rich activity, post-test assessment, and survey about the experience. The findings discussed include research results, the perspectives of the facilitating instructor, and recommendations for teaching technology-laden investigations through an inquiry approach. In general, the challenges related to teaching with technology and time constraints were found to be significant limiting factors in the success of inquiry-based teaching in STEM.
A Transmission Electron Microscopic Evaluation of Natural Rubber/Graphene Nanocomposite
Authors: Tan Kim Song , Aziz Azira , Mok Kok Lang , Lim Hui Mei , Ramli Roslim
Published: September 2017

Evaluation of Natural rubber (NR)/graphene composite was performed using a transmission electron microscope (TEM). As a comparison, plain NR and graphene were also prepared and viewed under the same conditions. The NR and composite material were swelled in styrene, hardened by polymerization process, sectioned into lamellar at room temperature and stained by osmium tetroxide before viewing. As osmium reacts with alkenes in NR but not with polystyrene, a good contrast between the two materials can be achieved. We report TEM images of all the materials used in this study and how TEM images can be employed to relate the interaction between NR particles, with and without the presence of graphene. No obvious interaction between NR and graphene was observed in the composite sample but interparticle interactions between NR particles can be clearly seen. However, the increase in distance between NR particles, as observed in the swelled NR/graphene composite film, is an indication of lesser interparticle interactions. This observation explains the ineffectiveness of graphene as filler in NR, under the current preparation process.
Fish Scales Hydroxyapatite as Potential Fillers in HDPE Composites for Bone Replacement Applications
Authors: Aiza Jaafar C.N. , Zainol Ismail , Mohd Amin Mastura
Published: September 2017

In this study, the potential of fish scales hydroxyapatite (FsHA) from Tilapia fish scales as reinforced filler in high density polyethylene (HDPE) composite were investigated. The Young’s Modulus and impact strength of HDPE/FsHA composites at different FsHA wt% loading were studied. Fourier transform infrared was used to confirm the present of FsHA in the composites. The fracture surfaces of composites were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. The results obtained indicate that the higher the FsHA filler contents, the higher the Young’s modulus and impact strength properties. The SEM analysis also revealed that FsHA particles are well distributed in the HDPE matrix of composite. The composite has high potential for bone replacement applications.
Importance of Underutilized Crops in Thanamalwila Divisional Secretariat Division in Monaragala District in Sri Lanka
Authors: Malkanthi S H.P
Published: September 2017

Underutilized crops serve many purposes for a household. This study was conducted to study the importance of these crops for households in Thanamalwila divisional secretariat division in Moneragala District. The purpose of this research was to identify the importance of underutilized crops for farmers in Monaragala District of Sri Lanka. Data were collected from 120 farmers who cultivate underutilized crops, through a field survey with the help of a questionnaire during January- October 2015. Group discussions were also conducted to collect in-depth information. The findings reveal, a significant number of underutilized crop species are being cultivated by the farmers. Among them, some cereals, vegetables, legumes, fruits, yams and tuber crops and herbals are common. Farmers’  main goals of cultivation are to fulfill the food requirement of the family, find extra income and to use them as herbals for simple health disorders. When farmers’ attitudes towards the underutilized crops are taken into consideration, they have positive attitude towards economic benefits of cultivating underutilized crops, medicinal and nutritional values, low cost of cultivation, less water requirements, less pest and disease problems, etc. However, farmers have neither agreed nor disagreed upon three broad levels of importance of underutilized crops namely, contributing to the biodiversity, environmental protection and tolerance to climate changes. Most of the farmers have general understanding about the importance of underutilized crops. Moreover, farmers are still willing to cultivate these crops for selling if they can have necessary facilities and a good market.
Secondary education as a predictor of aptitude: Implications for selection in the automotive sector
Authors: Puchert Juliet I. , Dodd Nicole , Viljoen Kim L.
Published: September 2017

Orientation: Details of applicants’ secondary education (incorporating subject choice) could be a useful screening tool when processing large applicant pools. Here, the relationships between secondary education (incorporating subject choice) and the reasoning and visual perceptual speed components of the Differential Aptitude Test are explored.Research purpose: The objective of the study was to determine whether type of secondary education (incorporating subject choice) could be used as a substitute for reasoning (verbal and non-verbal) and/or visual perceptual speed aptitudes in the selection of operators for an automotive plant in South Africa.Motivation for the study: The motivation for this study arose from the evident gap in academic literature as well as the selection needs of the automotive industry.Research design, approach and method: This research adopted a quantitative approach. It involved a non-probability convenience quota sample of 2463 work-seeking applicants for an automotive operator position in South Africa. Participants completed a biographical questionnaire and three subtests from the Differential Aptitude Test battery. The Chi-square test was used to determine the relationship between type of secondary education (incorporating subject choice) and selected cognitive aptitudes.Main findings: The study’s findings revealed statistically and practically significant relationships between type of secondary education (incorporating subject choice), verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning and visual perceptual speed. Broad performance levels in the three aptitude subtests employed in this study were significantly associated with the type of matriculation certificate held by applicants. The findings specifically indicated that the secondary education types that included the subjects mathematics or both mathematics and science were associated with higher levels of performance in the three aptitudes. This had consequences for these applicants’ success in the screening process which could lead to enhanced chances of employability.Practical and managerial implications: Applicants’ type of secondary education (incorporating subject choice) could be regarded as a key criterion in human resource selection and be instructive in the screening process. This could reduce the candidate pool prior to more costly psychometric assessments.Contribution or value-add: The findings are specifically relevant to the South African automotive industry in terms of their human resource selection practices. The insights gained from the findings may also be used as a guide to human resource practitioners in the selection of similar level employees in other working contexts. The study makes a case for a multiple-hurdle approach to selection.
Late Intervention on an Occluded Infarct-Related Artery: A Meta-analysis of the Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Zagler Axel , Heimowitz Todd B. , Escolar Esteban , Hussein Steven J. , Yousef Zaheer R. , Steg Philippe Gabriel , Dzavik Vladimir , Hochman Judith S. , Vignola Paul A. , Lamas Gervasio A.
Published: September 2017

Context

Late intervention to open an occluded infarct-related artery (IRA) after initial acute myocardial infarction was postulated to lead to clinical benefit.

Objective

To conduct a meta-analysis of the randomized trials.

Study Selection

Eligibility criteria were: 1) randomized trials comparing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in a totally occluded artery (TIMI flow 0-1) versus medical therapy, 2) in stable post myocardial infarction (MI) patients without spontaneous or low level exercise induced ischemia, 3) trials with a time from the onset of symptoms to randomization >24 hours, but <6 weeks, and 4) trials reporting mortality and recurrent MI as an endpoint. Of 961 citations reviewed, 3 disagreements were easily resolved by discussion and 6 trials were selected for inclusion.

Data Synthesis

The primary endpoint was the composite of recurrent MI or death. The secondary endpoints were the development of heart failure or recurrent myocardial infarction. In a meta-analysis of the 6 trials, which included 2642 patients, late intervention of an IRA had a RR of death or recurrent MI of 1.12 (95% CI 0.91-1.38). Data regarding the development of heart failure was available for 4 trials. In a meta-analysis of these 4 trials, which included 2527 patients, late intervention of an IRA had a RR of 0.79 (95% CI 0.58-1.08). Data regarding the occurrence of recurrent MI was available for 5 trials. In a meta-analysis of these 5 trials, which included 2598 patients, late intervention of an IRA had a RR of 1.28 (95% CI 0.91-1.79).

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis of the currently available randomized data addressing late intervention of an occluded IRA failed to reveal clinical benefit with regard to the clinical endpoints of death, heart failure or reinfarction. The trend towards an increase in reinfarction among the PCI treated patients suggested by the Open Artery Trial (OAT) investigators persisted, but did not achieve statistical significance.
Osler-Weber-Rendu (OWR) Disease and Heart Failure
Authors: Blum Arnon , Shalabi Rafea
Published: September 2017

OWR is a genetic disease, transmitted as an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by arteriovenous malformations predominantly involving the mucocutaneous epithelium. One of the significant complications is the development of arteriovenous fistulas in different organs like the liver and brain. One of the rarest complications of this arteriovenous conduit is a high-output heart failure. We would like to describe a 66 years old woman who was admitted with a high-output cardiac failure who deteriorated clinically and was treated successfully by conservative management.
Performance Based Standard for Accelerated Exposure of Automotive Exterior Materials Using a Controlled Irradiance Xenon-Arc Apparatus
Authors:   Textile and Flexible Plastics Committee
Published: September 2017

This SAE Standard specifies the operating procedures for a controlled irradiance, xenon-arc apparatus used for the accelerated exposure of various exterior automotive materials.
Torque Ratings for Power Take-off Mounting Pads
Authors:   Truck and Bus Powertrain Committee
Published: September 2017

This SAE Recommended Practice is intended to serve as a reference for the amount of torque that a Power Take-Off can induce on the transmission mounting pad. This document will apply to six-bolt, eight-bolt, and rear mounted power take-offs.
New Important Step in Prenatal Evaluation of Abnormally Invasive Placenta: A Study of Bladder, Uterus, and Vagina Vascularization
Authors: Foti Francesca , Minneci G , Calì G
Published: September 2017

Abnormally invasive placenta (AIP) are increasing pathologies, but not always they present the same difficulties during surgery. So a presurgical step before to assess a cesarean section in pregnancies with AIP is the evaluation of the vascular anastomotic system between the bladder, uterus, and vagina involving the superior, medial, and inferior vaginal and the lower vesical arteries. This is fundamental to plan the management of eventual surgical complication and to predict perisurgical and postsurgical outcomes.

How to cite this article

Foti F, Minneci G, Calì G. New Important Step in Prenatal Evaluation of Abnormally Invasive Placenta: A Study of Bladder, Uterus, and Vagina Vascularization. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2017;11(2):89-90.
Obstetric Ultrasound for Diabetes-related Congenital Anomalies
Authors: Kalache Karim D , Gothey Farhat , Kamil Daniel
Published: September 2017

Major structural fetal anomalies occur in approximately 3% of births and are the main cause of infant mortality in developed countries. Pregestational diabetes is well recognized as the main cause, with up to a significant increase (ninefold) in structural defects when compared with the rates observed in nondiabetic pregnancies. In this Editorial, we will discuss the association between diabetes and the risk of congenital anomalies and the type of defects seen in diabetics. We will focus this Editorial on the Ultrasound Semiology of the Diabetes-related Congenital Anomalies.

How to cite this article

Kalache KD, Gothey F, Kamil D. Obstetric Ultrasound for Diabetes-related Congenital Anomalies. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2017;11(2):101-106.
Artefactos Explosivos Improvisados, Atención En Ambientes Austeros
Authors: Varona Erika TM , Páez Carlos AA , Moreno Alejandro B
Published: September 2017

Introducción

El trauma de guerra no convencional aún no está plenamente estudiado, se busca identificar tipos de lesiones en pacientes heridos por artefactos explosivos improvisados (AEI), en Colombia entre febrero de 2004 y mayo de 2014 que fueron atendidos por una de las unidades de atención quirúrgica móvil del ejército nacional de Colombia en ambiente austero (selva), con recursos limitados y remitidos posteriormente a hospital de cuarto nivel para manejo definitivo.

Materiales y métodos

Estudio observacional, descriptivo basado en una cohorte histórica. Se analizó la base de datos de pacientes civiles y soldados de las fuerzas militares de colombia que recibieron atención por los Grupos Avanzados de Trauma en ambientes austeros cercanos a las áreas de guerra, por artefacto explosivo. Se realizó revisión manual de las historias clínicas registrando las lesiones presentadas por pacientes al ingreso a la institución de salud de cuarto nivel. Se hace análisis con tablas dinámicas, frecuencias, tendencias, modas de los datos y se hace análisis de los mismos.

Criterios de inclusión

Pacientes que se encuentran registrados en base la de datos realizada por médicos participantes del grupo avanzado de trauma entre los años de 2004 al 2014 y que fueron víctimas por armas de fragmentación no convencionales.

Resultados

Se evaluó un total de 182 pacientes, Con promedio de edad de 23 años; Hubo 158 lesiones ortopédicas, la amputación fue la más frecuente en 105 pacientes (66.4%), de las cuales 64.2% fueron infracondileas, 1.64 % de miembros superiores y 0.54% supracondileas. Y según rango militar; soldados 81.4% y Oficiales 6%. Asociado al trauma oseo se presentó otras complicaciones como; Embolismo graso 1.64%, Osteomielitis 2.94% Trauma acústico 3.85%, Trauma ocular 3.29%, Trauma facial 7.14%, Trauma cráneo encefálico 0.54%, Neuropatías 4.94%, Sepsis por K. Pneumonia y E. Faecalis 2.19%, con una mortalidad global de 1 paciente (0,58%)

Conclusión

En Colombia entre febrero de 2004 y Mayo del 2014 los AEI fueron la causa más frecuente de heridos de guerra generando lesiones osteomusculares con predominio de amputaciones infracondileas, con baja incidencia infecciones asociadas y mortalidad asociada.

How to cite this article

Varona ETM, Páez CAA, Moreno AB. Artefactos Explosivos Improvisados, Atención En Ambientes Austeros. Panam J Trauma Crit Care Emerg Surg 2017;6(2):61-67.
Álcool E Direção: Uma Realidade Entre Os Estudantes
Authors: Couto Vanessa Brito Miguel , Sampaio Bernardo Pires , Rosas Leonardo de Lima , Costa Ana Carla de Santana , Corrêa Ana Lúcia de Camargo , K Kadja de Morais Correia , Alves Ravel Souza , Silva Gabriela Santos , de Souza Roberto Almeida Rego , Salomão Irany Santana
Published: September 2017

Histórico

Os índices de acidentes de trânsito causados por motoristas alcoolizado conservam-se altos, principalmente quando se considera a população de estudantes, na qual o consumo de álcool é maior que na população em geral. Assim, este estudo tem como objetivo identificar a prevalência do binômio bebida alcóolica e direção em estudantes no município de Ilhéus, Brasil.

Desenho de Estudo

Trata-se de um trabalho prospectivo e quantitativo em que foi aplicado um questionário aleatoriamente em 192 estudantes que se encontravam em bares na cidade de Ilhéus durante o mês de maio de 2016.

Resultados

O sexo masculino foi discretamente mais prevalente (53,1%), com predominância da faixa etária entre 20 e 30 anos (71,9%) e daqueles que cursavam o ensino superior (70,3%). Os resultados da pesquisa apontaram que 76,5% beberam pela primeira vez entre 12 e 17 anos; 50% experimentaram bebida alcóolica numa festa ou evento social e 43,7% começaram a ingerir álcool por causa dos amigos. Quanto ao hábito de dirigir após consumir bebida alcóolica, 62,5% relataram possuí-lo e a maioria dos entrevistados pegariam carona sabendo que o motorista ingeriu álcool (78,1%). Apesar disso, quase todos os estudantes (97%) consideram-se bem informados quanto à problemática do consumo de álcool, principalmente ao associá-lo com a direção.

Conclusão

A maioria dos jovens universitários costuma ingerir bebida alcóolica e dirigir. Além disso, ignoram o fato do motorista estar alcoolizado ao aceitarem uma carona, apesar de terem consciência dos prejuízos advindos dessa associação.

How to cite this article

Couto VBM, Sampaio BP, de Lima Rosas L, de Santana Costa AC, de Camargo Corrêa AL, de Morais Correia K, Alves RS, Silva GS, de Souza RAR, Salomão IS. Álcool E Direção: Uma Realidade Entre Os Estudantes. Panam J Trauma Crit Care Emerg Surg 2017;6(2):68-71.
Cross-sectional Study on Utilization of Radiology and Imaging Equipment in the District Hospitals of Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Md Mofazzal , Sultana Papia , Shahjahan M
Published: September 2017

A quality diagnosis mostly depends on the availability and proper utilization of radiology and imaging equipments in the modern medical technology. Every year, huge amount of revenue is spent to purchase costly and sophisticated radiology and imaging equipments for the district hospitals of Bangladesh. But radiology and imaging equipments are underutilized in most of the developing Asian and African countries, including Bangladesh. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to find the functional status, workload, utilization, and factors affecting the utilization of radiology and imaging equipments in the district hospitals of Bangladesh. Interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to take interview of relevant human resources. Work time study method was applied where multiple checklists were used to measure consumed time for each procedure and daily actual work time of radiology and imaging equipments. In this study, 46.9% radiology and imaging equipments were found functional, 40.6% radiology and imaging equipments nonfunctional, and 12.5% radiology and imaging equipments functional but not in use. This study revealed that 53% of total radiology and imaging equipments of district hospitals were nonfunctional, and functional but not in use, where 8 equipments became nonfunctional before 10 years due to unavailability of spare parts and inadequate maintenance fund. Work time in radiography identified 83.51% and in ultrasonography (USG) 71.08% among the respondents of radiology and imaging department in the district hospitals. Utilization rate of general radiography equipments was found to be 67.01%, portable radiography equipments 16.5%, and USG equipments 71.08%. Average utilization rate of radiology and imaging equipments was found to be 51.53% in the district hospitals of Bangladesh. Utilization rate of radiology and imaging equipments more than 50% is considered as standard utilization. Current status of utilization rate needs to accelerate to get maximum turnover of the equipments among the district hospitals of Bangladesh. Important factors affecting the utilization of radiology and imaging equipments were observed — shortage of manpower, inadequate physical infrastructure, and less incorporation of advanced technology with existing facility.

How to cite this article

Hossain MM, Sultana P, Shahjahan M. Cross-sectional Study on Utilization of Radiology and Imaging Equipment in the District Hospitals of Bangladesh. Int J Res Foundation Hosp Healthc Adm 2017;5(1):21-28.
Patient Satisfaction in Tertiary Private Hospitals in Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Llego Jordan H , Shirah Mohammad O Al
Published: September 2017

Aim

This study is aimed to assess the level of satisfaction of patients in tertiary private hospitals in Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Materials and methods

This study used descriptive crosssectional design through a survey questionnaire.

Results

A great majority (57%) of respondents are male. Almost half (46.7%) of the respondents are 26 to 35 years old, some (30.3%) are more than 35 years old. The majority (54.5%) of hospitalized patients are married. Some (35.8%) of them reached the secondary level and some (31.5%) completed college. A great majority (57.6%) of the respondents’ salary was below 5,000 SR. A great majority pay their hospitalization by themselves (60.6%). Mean scores revealed: For facilities, the mean was 4.12, standard deviation (SD) = 0.85. For general services, the mean was = 4.13, SD= 0.77. The physician services scored mean = 4.06, SD= 0.88. The highest level of satisfaction according to mean is nursing services with mean= 4.22, SD= 0.80 and the lowest among the variables is convenience with mean= 4.05, SD= 0.84. The overall level of patient satisfaction with the services they received indicated by the mean is 3.91, SD= 1.1.

Conclusion

Researchers conclude that patients catered by the private tertiary hospitals in Najran Saudi Arabia are more of males, at middle adulthood, and are married who reached the secondary level and have an income of below 5,000 SR and have no health insurance. The level of satisfaction of patients in the private tertiary hospitals is satisfactory and that nursing service has the highest satisfaction level, which is very satisfactory. Clinical significance: The findings of this study are beneficial to the success of the organization. A patient who is satisfied will spread his experience to other people. A satisfied patient will also equate to return of investment. Meeting satisfaction of patients will also decrease the risk of malpractice lawsuits.

Clinical significance

The findings of this study are beneficial to the success of the organization. A patient who is satisfied will spread his experience to other people. A satisfied patient will also equate to return of investment. Meeting satisfaction of patients will also decrease the risk of malpractice lawsuits.

How to cite this article

Llego JH, Al Shirah MO. Patient Satisfaction in Tertiary Private Hospitals in Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Int J Res Foundation Hosp Healthc Adm 2017;5(1):42-46.
Botanical Nootropics in Ayurveda
Authors: Srikanth Narayanam , Tewari Devesh , Haripriya Narayanam , Khanduri Shruti , Rath Chinmay , Mangal Anupam K , Gaidhani Sudesh N
Published: September 2017

Aim:

This study focuses on the documentation and critical evaluation of the presence of botanical nootropics in Ayurveda based on the available classical literature in Ayurveda. The study also entails the terminology used for different memory and cognitive functions in the classical texts of Ayurveda.

Background:

The process of memory (smriti) and neurocognitive functions (medha) has been well documented by Indians since ancient times, and comprehensive portrayal concerning different diseases interfering neurocognitive functions and their management are embodied in ancient medical literatures. A detailed account of medicinal plants for enhancement of neurocognitive functions, such as medhya rasayanas, smritikara, buddhivivardhaka, buddhimatiprada drugs, etc. (nootropics and mental health promoters) can be traced from over nine codified texts of Ayurveda.

Review results:

Exposition of the uncharted knowledge about plant drugs ascribed with nootropic effect is scattered elsewhere in archaic medical literatures and is pivotal for further research and drug development. For rational, evidence-based use and development of safe, effective, and acceptable pharmacological dosage forms, it is vital to comprehend the mode of action of these plant drugs based on their traditional use, principles mentioned in Ayurveda texts, and also applying modern pharmacological thoughts.

Conclusion:

Documentation and critical evaluation of the presence of botanical nootropics in Ayurveda based on the available classical literature in Ayurveda was done. Mental health is one among the important health concerns in the emerging scenario, owing to the paradigm shift of the disease burden from communicable disease to noncommunicable disease in developed and developing countries. The potential leads from Ayurveda texts may be taken forward for further development of safe, effective, and user-friendly dosage forms through systematic preclinical and clinical studies. Further, the diverse terminology was found in different Ayurvedic text.
Geweten als ervaring, symbool en concept
Authors: Schinkel Anders
Published: September 2017

Conscience as experience, symbol and concept

For most of the recorded history of the Western world, conscience was experienced and conceptualized as, if not a divine phenomenon in itself, then at least a point of contact with the divine, with absolute moral truth. Its respected status still shows in the legal provisions made for conscientious objections. Over time, however, conscience underwent a devaluation, until in the twentieth century the concept had largely disappeared from philosophical ethics as well as mainstream psychology. In this article I trace the history of conscience in an attempt to make sense of this devaluation, and to rethink the concept of conscience. Inspired by the work of Eric Voegelin, Michael Polanyi, and others, I argue that a certain forgetfulness lay behind the modern rejection of the concept: a forgetting of the symbolic nature of expressions of conscience, and of the experiences that engendered those expressions. By recovering those experiences and reminding ourselves of the symbolic nature of expressions of conscience we are also able to construct a ‘fluid’ concept of conscience that does justice to its experiential reality without reifying conscience. This may also be a first step towards a renewed appreciation of the meta-ethical importance of (engaging with) experiences of conscience.
Disfunctioneel geweten en morele incompetentie bij psychopaten
Authors: Vujošević Marijana
Published: September 2017

Psychopaths’ Dysfunctional Conscience and their Moral Incompetence

I develop here a Kantian framework for understanding conscience in order to examine whether moral flaws of psychopaths are traceable to their dysfunctional conscience. When understood as the reflective capacity for moral self-assessment that triggers certain emotional reactions, conscience proves to be a fruitful tool for explaining psychopathic moral incompetence. First, I show how the unrealistic moral self-assessment of psychopaths affects their competence in judging moral issues and in being motivated to act morally. I then highlight how focusing on this specific rational deficit of psychopaths significantly modifies the status of rationalism within the contemporary dispute as to whether psychopathy supports sentimentalism alone.
Adrift on the Ocean: a study of K.S. Maniam’s displaced characters
Authors: Philip Susan
Published: September 2017

This paper analyses two plays by Malaysian Indian author K.S. Maniam, examining his ideas about the necessity to rearticulate state-authored, essentialising notions of cultural and ethnic identity towards the creation of a more hybrid and inclusive identity which does not demand allegiance to a single, rigidly defined culture. Maniam’s main concerns in this context will be examined through a close analysis of his plays The Cord and The Sandpit: Womensis. My analysis of these two plays will be framed by the ideas articulated in Maniam’s 2001 paper “The New Diaspora”.
Quantifying alkane emissions in the Eagle Ford Shale using boundary layer enhancement
Authors: Roest Geoffrey , Schade Gunnar
Published: September 2017

Abstract. The Eagle Ford Shale in southern Texas is home to a booming unconventional oil and gas industry, the climate and air quality impacts of which remain poorly quantified due to uncertain emission estimates. We used the atmospheric enhancement of alkanes from Texas Commission on Environmental Quality volatile organic compound monitors across the shale, in combination with back trajectory and dispersion modeling, to quantify C2–C4 alkane emissions for a region in southern Texas, including the core of the Eagle Ford, for a set of 68 days from July 2013 to December 2015. Emissions were partitioned into raw natural gas and liquid storage tank sources using gas and headspace composition data, respectively, and observed enhancement ratios. We also estimate methane emissions based on typical ethane-to-methane ratios in gaseous emissions. The median emission rate from raw natural gas sources in the shale, calculated as a percentage of the total produced natural gas in the upwind region, was 0.7 % with an interquartile range (IQR) of 0.5–1.3 %, below the US Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) current estimates. However, storage tanks contributed 17 % of methane emissions, 55 % of ethane, 82 % percent of propane, 90 % of n-butane, and 83 % of isobutane emissions. The inclusion of liquid storage tank emissions results in a median emission rate of 1.0 % (IQR of 0.7–1.6 %) relative to produced natural gas, overlapping the current EPA estimate of roughly 1.6 %. We conclude that emissions from liquid storage tanks are likely a major source for the observed non-methane hydrocarbon enhancements in the Northern Hemisphere.
Tropical convection regimes in climate models: evaluation with
satellite observations
Authors: Steiner Andrea K. , Lackner Bettina C. , Ringer Mark A.
Published: September 2017

Abstract. High quality observations are powerful tools for the evaluation of climate models towards improvement and reduction of uncertainty. Particularly at low latitudes, the most uncertain aspect lies in the representation of moist convection and interaction with dynamics, where rising motion is tied to deep convection and sinking motion to dry regimes. Since humidity is closely coupled with temperature feedbacks in the tropical troposphere a proper representation of this region is essential. Here we demonstrate the evaluation of atmospheric climate models with satellite-based observations from Global Positioning System (GPS) radio occultation (RO), which feature high vertical resolution and accuracy in the troposphere to lower stratosphere. We focus on the representation of the vertical atmospheric structure in tropical convection regimes, defined by high updraft velocity over warm surfaces, and investigate atmospheric temperature and humidity profiles. Results reveal that some models do not fully capture convection regions, particularly over land, and only partly represent high updraft or downdraft velocities. Models show large biases in tropical mean temperature of more than 4 K in the tropopause region and the lower stratosphere. Reasonable agreement with observations is given in mean specific humidity in the lower to mid-troposphere. In moist convection regions, models tend to underestimate moisture by 10 % to 30 % over oceans whereas in dry downdraft regions they overestimate moisture by 100 %. Our findings provide evidence that RO observations are a unique source of information, with a range of further atmospheric variables to be exploited, for the evaluation and advancement of next generation climate models.
Water, Energy, and Carbon with Artificial Neural Networks (WECANN): a statistically based estimate of global surface turbulent fluxes and gross primary productivity using solar-induced fluorescence
Authors: Alemohammad Seyed Hamed , Fang Bin , Konings Alexandra G. , Aires Filipe , Green Julia K. , Kolassa Jana , Miralles Diego , Prigent Catherine , Gentine Pierre
Published: September 2017

Abstract. A new global estimate of surface turbulent fluxes, latent heat flux (LE) and sensible heat flux (H), and gross primary production (GPP) is developed using a machine learning approach informed by novel remotely sensed solar-induced fluorescence (SIF) and other radiative and meteorological variables. This is the first study to jointly retrieve LE, H, and GPP using SIF observations. The approach uses an artificial neural network (ANN) with a target dataset generated from three independent data sources, weighted based on a triple collocation (TC) algorithm. The new retrieval, named Water, Energy, and Carbon with Artificial Neural Networks (WECANN), provides estimates of LE, H, and GPP from 2007 to 2015 at 1°  ×  1° spatial resolution and at monthly time resolution. The quality of ANN training is assessed using the target data, and the WECANN retrievals are evaluated using eddy covariance tower estimates from the FLUXNET network across various climates and conditions. When compared to eddy covariance estimates, WECANN typically outperforms other products, particularly for sensible and latent heat fluxes. Analyzing WECANN retrievals across three extreme drought and heat wave events demonstrates the capability of the retrievals to capture the extent of these events. Uncertainty estimates of the retrievals are analyzed and the interannual variability in average global and regional fluxes shows the impact of distinct climatic events – such as the 2015 El Niño – on surface turbulent fluxes and GPP.
On the potential causes of the recent Pelagic Sargassum blooms events in the tropical North Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Djakouré Sandrine , Araujo Moacyr , Hounsou-Gbo Aubains , Noriega Carlos , Bourlès Bernard
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Since 2011, unprecedented and repetitive blooms and large mass strandings of the floating brown macroalgæ, Sargassum natans and Sargassum fluitans have been reported along the West Indies, the Caribbean, the Brazilian and the West Africa coasts. Recent studies have highlighted a new tank of Sargassum: the North Equatorial Recirculation Region of the Atlantic Ocean. This region is located off the northeast of Brazil, approximately between the equator and 10° N and from 50° W to 25° W. The potential causes of these recent blooms and mass strandings are still poorly understood. Observational datasets and modelling outputs involving hydrological parameters and climate events are examined focusing on their potential feedback on the observed blooms and mass strandings. The results show that combined conditions have been in favor of these recent changes. High anomalously unprecedented positive sea surface temperature observed in the tropical Atlantic in 2010–2011 could have induced favorable temperature conditions for Sargassum blooms. These favorable conditions were then fed by additional continental nutrients inputs, principally from the Amazon River. These continental nutrients load are the consequences of deforestation, agroindustrial and urban activities in the Amazonian forest. The results also suggest that subsurface intake of nutrients from the equatorial upwelling could also contribute to the blooms of the Sargassum seaweed in the Atlantic Ocean but further studies are needed to confirm these additional inputs.
Variability in copepod trophic levels and in feeding selectivity based on stable isotope analysis in Gwangyang Bay off the southern coast of Korea
Authors: Chen Mianrun , Kim Dongyoung , Liu Hongbin , Kang Chang-Keun
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Trophism (i.e., food resources and trophic levels) of different copepod groups was assessed along a salinity gradient in the temperate estuarine Gwangyang Bay of Korea, based on seasonal investigation of taxonomic results in 2015 and stable isotope analysis incorporating multiple linear regression models. The δ13C and δ15N values of copepods in the bay displayed salinity-associated spatial heterogeneity as well as temperature-related seasonal variations. Both spatial and temporal variations reflected those in isotopic values of food sources. Three major groups (marine calanoids, brackish water calanoids and cyclopoids) had a mean trophic level of 2.2 relative to nanoplankton as the basal food source, similar to the bulk copepod assemblage; however, they had dissimilar food sources based on the different δ13C values. Calanoid isotopic values indicated a mixture of different genera including species with high δ15N values (e.g., Sinocalanus and Labidocera) and relatively low δ15N values (Paracalanus and Acartia). Feeding preferences of different copepods probably explain these seasonal and spatial patterns of the community trophic niche. Bayesian mixing model calculations based on source materials of two size fractions of particulate organic matter (nanoplankton at
The Global Streamflow Indices and Metadata Archive (GSIM) – Part 2: Quality Control, Time-series Indices and Homogeneity Assessment
Authors: Gudmundsson Lukas , Do Hong X. , Leonard Michael , Westra Seth , Seneviratne Sonia I.
Published: September 2017

Abstract. This is Part 2 of a two-paper series presenting the Global Streamflow Indices and Metadata Archive (GSIM), which is a collection of daily streamflow observations at more than 30000 stations around the world. While Part 1 describes the data collection process as well as the generation of auxiliary catchment data (e.g. catchment boundary, land-cover, mean climate), Part 2 introduces a set of quality controlled time series indices representing (i) the water balance, (ii) the seasonal cycle, (iii) low-flows and (iv) floods. To this end we first consider the quality of individual daily records using a combination of quality flags of the data providers and automated screening methods. Subsequently streamflow time series indices are computed for yearly, seasonal and monthly resolution. The paper closes with a generalized assessment of the homogeneity of all generated streamflow time series indices, which can be used to select time series that are suitable for a specific task. The presented global set of streamflow time series indices is made freely available at https://iacweb.ethz.ch/staff/lukasgu/GSIM/GSIM_indices.zip and is expected to foster global freshwater research, by acting as a ground-truth for model validation or as a basis for assessing the role of human impacts on the terrestrial water cycle.
Transposing an active fault database into a seismic hazard fault model for nuclear facilities – Part 1: Building a database of potentially active faults (BDFA) for metropolitan France
Authors: Jomard Hervé , Cushing Edward Marc , Palumbo Luigi , Baize Stéphane , David Claire , Chartier Thomas
Published: September 2017

Abstract. The French Institute for Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), with the support of the Ministry of Environment, compiled a database (BDFA) to define and characterize known potentially active faults of metropolitan France. The general structure of BDFA is presented in this paper. BDFA reports to date 136 faults and represents a first step toward the implementation of seismic source models that would be used for both deterministic and probabilistic seismic hazard calculations. A robustness index was introduced, highlighting that less than 15 % of the database is controlled by reasonably complete data sets. An example of transposing BDFA into a fault source model for PSHA (probabilistic seismic hazard analysis) calculation is presented for the Upper Rhine Graben (eastern France) and exploited in the companion paper (Chartier et al., 2017, hereafter Part 2) in order to illustrate ongoing challenges for probabilistic fault-based seismic hazard calculations.
Geothermal flux and basal melt rate in the Dome C region inferred from radar reflectivity and heat modelling
Authors: Passalacqua Olivier , Ritz Catherine , Parrenin Frédéric , Urbini Stefano , Frezzotti Massimo
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Basal melt rate is the most important physical quantity to be evaluated when looking for an old-ice drilling site, and it depends to a great extent on the geothermal flux (GF), which is poorly known under the East Antarctic ice sheet. Given that wet bedrock has higher reflectivity than dry bedrock, the wetness of the ice–bed interface can be assessed using radar echoes from the bedrock. But, since basal conditions depend on heat transfer forced by climate but lagged by the thick ice, the basal ice may currently be frozen whereas in the past it was generally melting. For that reason, the risk of bias between present and past conditions has to be evaluated. The objective of this study is to assess which locations in the Dome C area could have been protected from basal melting at any time in the past, which requires evaluating GF. We used an inverse approach to retrieve GF from radar-inferred distribution of wet and dry beds. A 1-D heat model is run over the last 800 ka to constrain the value of GF by assessing a critical ice thickness, i.e. the minimum ice thickness that would allow the present local distribution of basal melting. A regional map of the GF was then inferred over a 80 km  ×  130 km area, with a N–S gradient and with values ranging from 48 to 60 mW m−2. The forward model was then emulated by a polynomial function to compute a time-averaged value of the spatially variable basal melt rate over the region. Three main subregions appear to be free of basal melting, two because of a thin overlying ice and one, north of Dome C, because of a low GF.