bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical Biomarker Study of Negative Physiological Effects of Insecticides on Pakistani Farm Workers Health in the Central Punjab
Authors: Shahzad Muhammad , Yaqub Atif , Shaukat Mehmood , Fida Muhammad Kashif , Ali Nazish Mazhar , Hussain Tanveer , Sheeraz Muhammad
Published: January 2017

AbstractBackground:Â Â InÂ recentÂ decades,Â useÂ ofÂ pesticidesÂ inÂ agricultural practices hasÂ posedÂ threatÂ toÂ humanÂ popu-lation.Objectives:Â Â PresentÂ researchÂ wasÂ designedÂ toÂ exploreÂ theÂ adverseÂ effectsÂ ofÂ insecticidesÂ onÂ 339Â individualsÂ (studyÂ groupÂ farmersÂ nÂ =Â 256Â andÂ controlÂ nÂ =Â 83)Â selectedÂ fromÂ 62Â differentÂ sitesÂ ofÂ central Punjab. TheÂ sampleÂ wasÂ matchedÂ onÂ socio-economicÂ statusÂ andÂ age.Methodology:Â Â AÂ structuredÂ questionnaireÂ wasÂ usedÂ to obtainÂ theÂ demographicsÂ andÂ pesticideÂ relatedÂ details.Â ForÂ biochemicalÂ analysisÂ bloodÂ samplesÂ wereÂ collectedÂ fromÂ bothÂ groups.Results:BiochemicalÂ analysisÂ showsÂ that,Â farmersÂ exposedÂ with pesticidehaveÂ significantÂ elevatedÂ levelsÂ ofÂ UreaÂ (pÂ =Â 0.05)Â andÂ alanineÂ transaminaseÂ (ALT)Â (p=Â 0.01)Â asÂ comparedÂ withÂ control.Â OnÂ contrary,Â lowÂ levelsÂ ofÂ BChE,Â albuminÂ andÂ totalÂ proteinÂ (TP)Â levelsÂ (pÂ =Â 0.001;Â pÂ =Â 0.05Â andÂ pÂ =Â 0.001Â respectively)Â wereÂ foundÂ inÂ pesticideÂ exposedÂ subjectsÂ thanÂ controls.Â Also,Â significantÂ increaseÂ inÂ serumÂ creatinineÂ (pÂ =Â 0.01),Â aspartateÂ transaminaseÂ (AST)Â (pÂ =Â 0.01)Â andÂ notableÂ decreaseÂ inÂ theÂ albumin,Â TPÂ andÂ BChEÂ (pÂ =Â 0.001)Â wereÂ evidentÂ inÂ farmersÂ withÂ poorÂ protectiveÂ measures.Â HoweverÂ theÂ statisticalÂ differenceÂ isÂ notÂ correlatedÂ withÂ clinicalÂ difference.Conclusions:Â Â SeveralÂ biomarkersÂ haveÂ shownÂ theÂ possibleÂ hazardsÂ ofÂ pesticidesÂ toÂ farmerâ€™sÂ healthÂ thanÂ controls.Â ItÂ wasÂ furtherÂ exploredÂ thatÂ healthÂ indicatorsÂ alsoÂ associatedÂ withÂ otherÂ factorsÂ likeÂ durationÂ ofÂ ex-posureÂ toÂ pesticides,Â tobaccoÂ smokingÂ andÂ poorÂ hand-lingÂ practicesÂ amongstÂ theÂ studiedÂ population.Â
Frequency of Positive Results of Bacille Calmette Gurein and Mantoux Skin Tests in Suspected Cases of Childhood Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Aleem Asif , Raza Hassan
Published: January 2017

Abstract

Objective:  To determine the frequency of positive results of Bacille Calmette Gurein and Mantoux skin tests in suspected cases of childhood pulmonary tuberculosis.

Patients and Methods:  This prospective interventional study was conducted on 160 children from out-patient and inpatient departments of Pediatrics in Services institute of medical sciences, Lahore. An informed consent was taken from their parents for using their data in research and to keep the results confidential. Cases were diagnosed on the basis of history, examination and investigations. Each patient was giv-en 0.1 ml BCG intradermally on left shoulder and 5 IU of PPD intradermally on volar aspect of right forearm. The results were observed after 48 hours of application in the form of induration (in mm). The diagnostic BCG >8 and Mantoux test >10 after 48hrs was taken

(45%) patients showed positive response to both man-toux test and BCG. While alone BCG test was positive in 56 (35%) patients. Both BCG and mantoux tests were negative in rest of 32 (20%) patients. 131(81.9%) patients had variable degree of malnutrition. Severe malnutrition was present in 54 patients; out of these, 50 (92.6%) patients were BCG positive while only 10 (18.5%) patients showed positive response to mantoux test.

Conclusion:  BCG is more reliable than the tuberculin test in the diagnosis of childhood pulmonary tubercu-losis.

Keywords:  Bacilli calmette gurein (BCG), Mantoux test, Tuberculosis (TB), Tuberculous meningitis (TBM), Antituberculous treatment (ATT).

 

Frequency of Positive Results of Bacille Calmette Gurein and Mantoux Skin Tests in Suspected Cases of Childhood Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Hemodynamic Changes in Portal Vein and Frequencies of Acute and Chronic Portal Vein Thrombosis in Pediatric Patients Presenting with Hematemesis
Authors: Imran Ahmad , Tariq Amna , Qureshi Abid Ali
Published: January 2017

Objective:  The objective of the study is to calculate the frequency of portal vein thrombosis in pediatric patients presenting with hematemesis and to estimate the frequency of acute and chronic portal vein thrombosis in these cases.

Patients and Methods:  Pediatric patients of 1 – 15 years of age of either sex, presenting to emergency or gastroenterology department with complaint of hematemesis were included. Informed consent was taken from parents/guardians. This is a Descriptive cross sectional study conducted in department of pediatric radiology, Children Hospital and Institute of child Health Lahore from 11-12-2012 to 10-6-2013. Doppler ultrasound of these patients was performed at Core Vision pro SSA 350-A Doppler machine (Toshiba, Japan) using standard imaging protocols. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 17.0 (SPSS Inc., IL, Chicago, USA)

Results:  In this study, 41% (n = 41) between 1 – 5 years, 38% (n = 38) between 6 – 10 years and only 21% (n = 21) between 11 – 15 years of age, 64%( n = 64) were male and remaining 36% (n = 36) were females, frequency of portal vein thrombosis in pediatric patients presenting with hematemesis reveals in 37% (n = 37) while 63% (n = 63) had no findings of PVT, frequency of acute and chronic forms in patients positive for portal vein thrombosis was 40.54% (n = 15) had acute and 59.46% (n = 22) had chronic portal vein thrombosis.

Conclusion:  We concluded that the frequency of portal vein thrombosis in pediatric patients presenting with hematemesis and frequency of acute and chronic forms in patients positive for portal vein thrombosis is in accordance with other studies while color Doppler ultrasound is a useful diagnostic modality being noninvasive and cost effective.
SMOG: Causes, Effects and Preventions
Authors: Arif Fizzah
Published: January 2017

Dear Editor,

Recently many cities of Pakistan have been struck by the havoc of smog. Smog is formed when pollutants like nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds that are released from automobiles, industries and burning of fossil fuels interact with sunlight. These photochemical reactions usually occur in summers and leads to the development of ground level ozone or bad ozone (O3) which is an important smog causing pollutant. This ozone adversely affects human health specially respiratory and cardiovascular system and is among the cause of premature deaths.1 Fine particulates of 2.5 micrometer or less are also among the pollutants found in smog and haze.2

      Mechanism behind the damaging effect of ozone on cardiopulmonary system is explained to be due to high oxidizing power of ozone that forms free radicals exposing body to oxidative stress. Also, ozone and fine particulate air pollution are found to cause acute arterial vasoconstriction normally.2 Moreover, Ozone causes reduction in vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1s, increase in lung resistance along with worsening of asthma in summers. It increases the release of allergens from pollens leading to respiratory allergy symptoms3 and making the respiratory problems even worse. Reactive oxygen species like hydroxyl and superoxide anion radicals produced in body by ozone and other pollutants increases the susceptibility of cancer in a person due to mutagenic properties of reactive oxygen species and their damaging effect on body cells.3

      Knowledge about Secondary preventive measures that one should take during smog must be spread as it will help people to cope up from the situation in a better way next time. These measures are minimal exposure to outdoor air but if exposure is inescapable than a facemask should be worn. Elderly and people experiencing any cardiac or respiratory illness are more prone to harmful effects of smog. These patients should increase the dosage of medication on their physician’s advice to prevent worsening of disease. Supplements and food containing antioxidants like omega 3 fatty acids when added to diet may help against oxidative stress caused by pollutants.4

      Steps should be taken to avoid the recurrence of this calamity. Media campaign for public awareness regarding the sources of pollutants causing smog should be launched. Banning deforestation and promotion of tree implantation is required nationwide as trees transpire and decreases temperature by cooling effect which indirectly prevents photochemical reactions to occur and minimizing the formation of air pollutants.3 Recycling of solid waste is a good alternative to open burning of waste and garbage. Using low emission, low carbon fuels and combustion free power sources like wind and solar powerare important for primary prevention as these are safer for health and are also low cost and energy efficient.1
Effects of Exposure to Pesticides on Blood Serum Components and Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) in Pesticide Vendors of Punjab Province, Pakistan
Authors: Shahzad Muhammad , Yaqub Atif , Shaukat Mehmood , Fida Muhammad Kashif , Ali Nazish Mazhar , Hussain Tanveer , Sheeraz Muhammad , Fatima Nuzhat
Published: January 2017

Objectives:  The present study is to see the effects of human exposure to selected pesticides on their liver and kidney function as well as variations in butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) were studied.

Patients and Methods:  The study group consisted of 88 participants selected through purposive sampling technique and participated voluntarily. Sixty one pesticides vendors (male; mean age: 33.82 ± 11.5 years) and a control group consisting of 27 healthy male (mean age: 31.04 ± 11.96 years).

Results:  Mean levels of total proteins (TP, g/dl), albumin (g/dl) and BChE (u/l) were significantly lower in pesticide exposed individuals than those of control group [6.96 ± 1.45 vs. 8.75 ± 1.05 (total protein); 3.47 ± 0.76 vs. 4.37 ± 0.23 (albumin); 4213.20 ± 1128.96 vs. 5955.90 ± 623.16 (BChE, u/l), P < 0.001]. Among the pesticide vendors, urea (P < 0.01) and ALT (alanine amino transferase) (P < 0.05) concentrations were increased and BChE (P = 0.001) level decreased significantly in smokers than in non-smokers. Pesticide vendors having longer exposure time to pesticides had significantly higher levels of urea (P < 0.05) and ALT (P < 0.01) but had lower levels oftotal proteins (P < 0.01) and BChE (P = 0.001). Vendors who were not using proper protective measures showed significant increase in ALT (P < 0.01) level and decrease in total proteins (P < 0.05) and BChE (P = 0.001).

Conclusion:  The results of this study suggest that human exposure to pesticides has adverse effects on total proteins, albumin, urea, ALT, and BChE; these biomarkers were useful in studying adverse effects of pesticides in humans.
Soluble Serum Transferrin Receptor (STFR) Levels in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Majeed Ayesha , Hameed Aisha , Aftab Iram , Anees Muhammad , Mohsin Shahida , Hussain Shabbir
Published: January 2017

Objectives:  Anemia is a frequent disorder in patients with end stage renal disease. Erythropoietin is advised in these patients; however, this therapy is not effective in patients who are iron deficient. So, diagnosis of iron deficiency which is traditionally based on ferritin and other iron parameters becomes difficult in these patients, as chronic kidney disease is a chronic inflammatory condition which affects these markers and masks the iron deficiency. In present study, we assessed the reliability of another indicator of body iron supply; serum transferrin receptor, in hemodialysis patients. It is not affected in case of inflammation unlike other markers of iron status.

Patients and Methods:  Eighty Patients with end

stage renal disease, 20 to 60 years of age and both sexes were included. All cases were examined for complete blood count, serum iron, serum ferritin, serum total iron binding capacity, transferrin saturation and serum soluble transferrin receptor. Data was analysed by using independent sample t test and Pearson’ correlation. A p value of ≤ 0.05 was considered as significant.

Results:  The results of our research showed that mean values of serum soluble transferrin receptor and serum ferritin were 3.28 ± 0.83 µg/ml and 286.31 ± 165 ng/ml respectively which were significantly higher than the upper normal limit (p < 0.001). Levels of sTfR were statistically different (p = 0.002) between iron replete group (SF > 100 ng/ml) and iron deplete group (SF < 100 ng/ml). Additionally, there was negative and significant correlation between sTfR and Hemoglobin.

Conclusions:  Levels of serum soluble transferrin receptor can be used as a reliable marker of iron defi-ciency in hemodialysis patients.
Evaluation of Knowledge and Psychomotor Skills of Lady Health Visitors about Immunization
Authors: Anjum Muhammad Rashid , Khan Muhammad Arif , Athar Unsa , Raza Awais , Irfan Ayesha , Arif Sarah , Mehmood Ahsan , Sikandar Arsalan , Iftikhar Huda , Farrukh Shireen , Rafay Abdul , Khadim Tayyaba , Mushtaq Zoraiz
Published: January 2017

Adequate training of Lady Health Visitors is foundational for the prosperity of community health worker scheme in Pakistan.

Objective:  To determine the deficiencies in the training Lady Health Visitors by assessing their knowledge and psychomotor skills.

Study Design:  Cross – sectional study.

Study Duration and Place:  The study was conducted in 6 – month duration in Community Medicine Department, KEMU, Lahore.

Subjects and Methodology:  A cross – sectional stu-dy was carried out at Model Maternal and Child Care Centre, Montgomery Road, Lahore. A total of 100 Lady Health Visitors were selected on the basis of laid down inclusion criteria. Data was collected through a pretested questionnaire and analyzed by SPSS version.

Results:  LHVs had an adept comprehension of vaccinations of 9 diseases covered by EPI (99%). They had adequate knowledge of antenatal vaccines (64%), perinatal vaccines (87%) and postnatal (77%) vaccines, indicating good recall. But they had less grasp on the method of filling vaccination cards (30%) and counselling about side effects of vaccines (17%) showing low psychomotor skills. However, recall and psychomotor skills showed significant correlation (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:  Our study concluded that there is a significant correlation between recall and psychomotor skills of our Lady Health Visitors. By analyzing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the training of Lady Health Visitors, our study showed that they had better recall but lower psychomotor skills. Hence modifications are required in their training to improve psychomotor skills.
Maternal and Foetal Outcome in Cases of Placenta Previa, Accreta and Increta
Authors: Anjum Fauzia , Bashir Rabia , Rahim Arooba
Published: January 2017

Abstract

Objective:  To evaluate the maternal and foetal outcome in cases of placenta previa, placenta accrete and placenta increta.

Methods:  Medical records of patients from 1 Feb 2014 to 28 Feb 2015 were checked and patients who underwent caesarean section with a diagnosis of placenta previa types III and IV (and placenta accreta, increta and percreta) were identified. Their medical record files were retrieved and data collected regarding patients age, parity, previous LSCS, D&C, blood loss, bladder injury, hysterectomy and use of B-lynch technique were recorded. Neonatal statistics were also recorded regarding birth weight, gender, APGAR score and need for admission in NICU.

Results:  In total 37 cases of major placenta previa were identified. These included 8 cases with placenta accrete including 2 cases of placenta increta. No maternal death occurred amongst the studied cases. Only one case of IUFD was identified. The incidence of placenta previa (major) was 29.95/1000 births. Average parity of patients with placenta accreta (PA) was signi-ficantly higher than cases of placenta previa (PP) (2.75 vs. 1.55, p = 0.04). Similarly average number of LSCS in cases of PA was significantly higher than cases of PP (2.25 vs. 0.86, p = 0.02). PA cases were delivered at a significantly earlier gestational age as compared to cases with PP (34.5 weeks vs. 37 weeks, p = 0.01). Hysterectomy was done in 6 (75%) cases of PA but in none with PP. Bladder injury occurred in 2(25%) cases of PA but in none with PP. Blood loss was also signi-ficantly higher in PA cases than PP cases (3975 ml vs. 1196 ml, p = 0.006).

 

Conclusion:  At tertiary care hospitals, maternal and foetal outcomes for placenta previa and placenta accreta have improved owing to improved surgical techniques and better understanding of these conditions.
Functionalized carbon nanotubes based filters for chromium removal from aqueous solutions
Authors: Elsehly Emad M. , Chechenin N. G. , Makunin A. V. , Motaweh H. A. , Leksina E. G.
Published: January 2017

This investigation examines the filtration efficiency of chromium from aqueous solution using two types of commercial multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) (Taunit-M (TM) and Taunit-MD (TMD)). These MWCNTs were modified using two complementary treatments, purification (using a mixture of hydrochloric acid and hydrogen peroxide) and functionalization (using nitric acid). The effect of these treatments on the morphology of MWCNT Taunit filters was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to estimate the outer diameter distribution and element content deposited on filters. Effects of different parameters, i.e., carbon nanotube filter mass, concentration of chromium in aqueous solution, and pH of aqueous solution, on removal of this heavy metal were determined. From these investigations, the removal efficiency of chromium could reach 97% for modified TM and 70% for modified TMD at concentration of 10 ppm, suggesting that modified TM is an excellent adsorbent for chromium removal from aqueous solutions and more efficient than modified TMD. A significant increase in chromium removal by modified TM at pH = 2 has been observed compared with higher pH values. It was found that modified TM filters can be reused through many cycles of regeneration with high performance. Modified TM filters may be a promising candidate for heavy metal ion removal from industrial wastewater.
Odorous volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from ageing anaerobically stabilised biosolids
Authors: Fisher R. M. , Barczak R. J. , Alvarez Gaitan J. P. , Le-Minh N. , Stuetz R. M.
Published: January 2017

Opportunities for the beneficial re-use of biosolids are limited by nuisance odour emissions. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from anaerobically stabilised biosolids were measured to identify compounds that could contribute to the overall odour character of nuisance emissions. Flux hood sampling and chemical analysis were used to identify VOCs emitted from biosolids as they were stored in ambient conditions. Compounds emitted varied as the biosolid cakes were stored for a period of 50 days. VOCs detected in the biosolids are likely to occur from catchment sources as well as abiotic and biotic generation in the wastewater processing and the biosolids as they are stored. Odour activity values (OAVs) were used to compare odorants. Trimethylamine was the only VOC detected that exceeded the sulfur compounds in terms of OAVs. Other compounds such as limonene, ethyl methyl benzene and acetic acid were detected at concentrations exceeding their olfactory detection limits, however at lower OAVs than sulfur compounds.
O renascimento do elo unificador do real na pintura de Kandinsky e Rothko – à luz da espiritualidade da Nova Era
Authors: Marivoet Salomé
Published: January 2017

Em cada época e cultura, a arte representa uma visão do mundo, de apreensão do real objetivo e subjetivo, fortemente determinado pelas crenças religiosas dominantes. Desde o Renascimento que a desmitificação do mundo levou ao seu desencantamento. Na arte, e em particular na pintura, este fato motivou a procura de novos elementos plásticos integradores da totalidade na leitura das obras de arte. Nos tempos presentes, a designada pós-arte enfatiza a arte pela arte e a fragmentação do real, sinalizando a perda do sentido existencial e do espiritual na apreensão do mundo. Ainda assim, tanto quando podemos concluir, encontramos nas obras de arte de Kandinsky e Rothko uma representação de real unificado, cuja plena compreensão só se torna possível à luz da narrativa mítica abstrata, quântica e cosmológica da espiritualidade da Nova Era.
As mãos e a palavra do povo. Cultura e religiosidade na linguagem popular
Authors: Queiroz José J.
Published: January 2017

Este texto versa sobre a relação entre as palavras e as mãos na linguagem popular, tendo como pano de fundo a cultura e a religiosidade. Inicia apontando a relevância das mãos para o ser humano, que vão além da anatomia e se tornam instrumento de transformação, de produção de cultura em seus vários aspectos. Em seguida, mostra que a palavra do povo expressa uma cultura eminentemente manual, inclusive em suas manifestações religiosas. Enfim, oferece alguns exemplos de expressões populares que encerram essa cultura manual. Essas exemplificações incluem desde termos que o povo privilegia e espelham o labor manual até os que expressam uma situação de opressão, como o uso do presente em vez do futuro, e a mutilações da sintaxe, até as expressões que contêm um recôndito anseio de resistência e a vontade de superar a sociedade que discrimina e explora.
II Simpósio Internacional sobre Religião e Migração: “Diásporas africanas e processos sociorreligiosos”
Authors: Marchini Welder Lancieri , Barros Wellington Da Silva de
Published: January 2017

Relatório do Simpósio Internacional sobre Religião e Migração II com o tema “Diásporas africanas e processos sociorreligiosos” (6 a 8 de junho de 2016, PUC-SP)
Práticas e expressões de racialização: livros didáticos de História
Authors: Brito Enio José Da Costa
Published: January 2017

Reflexões sobre a tese de Maria Telvira da Conceição intitulada Interrogando discursos raciais em livros didáticos de História: entre Brasil e Moçambique-1950-1995
MORELLO, G. Dónde estaba Dios. Católicos y terrorismo de Estado en la Argentina de los setentas
Authors: Gatica Lucas
Published: January 2017

Resenha da obra indicada pelo título
The Effect of Competitive Sport on Achievement’s Motive—Study of Between Students’ Athletes and Students’ Non-Athletes
Authors: Sinulingga Albadi
Published: January 2017

This study aims to reveal whether the sporting achievement (high performance) among student athletes able to cultivate qualities oriented achievement motivation. Research by design ex post de facto (research after the event) in which the data collection techniques using achievement motivation questionnaire. The Achievement motivation questionnaire arranged and developed following the Likert model with reference to five levels, with a reliability of 0.85, while the alternative answers were arranged in such a way in the form of simulation. The population in this study was the PPLP student athletes in North Sumatra and students of SMA 6 Medan. Based on the results of the study at 95% confidence level (α 0.05), significantly found (1) there were differences in achievement motivation among student athletes and non-athletes, (2) there was no difference in achievement motivation by the length of exercise, (3) there were no difference in achievement motivation of athletes male and female athletes, (4) there was not difference in achievement motivation among the 7 sports. The results of the study recommended that to improve students achievement motivation should participate or engage in competitive sports.
Leverage and the wealth gains from acquisition program announcements
Authors: Bhabra Gurmeet Singh , Bhabra Harjeet S. , Boyle Glenn W.
Published: January 2017

We examine the market reaction to announcements of an intention to pursue a program of external acquisitions. Although the mean gain is positive, only firms with high Tobin’s q and low leverage experience significant abnormal returns. For firms with low q or high leverage, abnormal returns are zero. Moreover, the stock price reaction is an increasing function of q only for firms with low leverage. These results are consistent with the view that high leverage reduces the ability of a firm to take full advantage of profitable investment opportunities.
An investigation into the reasons for the pricing differences between a warrant and an option on the same stock in the South African derivatives market
Authors: Jordaan F.Y. , van Rooyen J.H.
Published: January 2017

This study set out to draw a pricing comparison between two similar contracts in the South African derivatives market. These contracts, a normal option and a warrant on the same underlying stock are considered. The research shows that although the two derivatives are the same in all respects, the premiums differ substantially when priced with the Black-Scholes-Merton model. It is clear that pricing has to take place over the same calendar period due to market changes when comparing the instruments. The Black-Scholes-Merton model was the proposed model to be used. However, due to certain limitations the Modified Black model was used as the best suited model. It was shown that warrant contracts always have a higher implied volatility and a higher premium than a comparable normal option per share of the same stock. These results werecompared with similar studies conducted in the European markets
The voluntary CSR disclosure in corporate annual reports: Evidence from Australia
Authors: Andrew Nicholas Paul , Wickham Mark
Published: January 2017

The relationship between credible Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) performance and desirable firm outcomes is well established in corporate governance literature. Over the past two decades in particular, there has been an increased recognition of this relationship in the business community and a concomitant increase in the quantity and detail of CSR activities being voluntarily reported by corporations has been observed. The rationale for the increasing levels of voluntary CSR reporting has been attributed to two main corporate strategies: to conform to the expectations of the society and to socially legitimise their operations to their salient stakeholder groups. Whilst there has been extensive academic interest in the concept of CSR, it has focused almost exclusively on normative definitions of the concept, and/or the presentation of empirical evidence that details „why corporations should report their CSR activities‟ and „what CSR activities they should report‟. What is lacking the literature, however, is a focus on the question as to „how do corporations strategically report their CSR activities?‟ We find that there is evidence to support a „Core/Periphery Model‟ of strategic CSR disclosure, which we feel provides a framework for predicting how corporations will voluntarily disclose their CSR performance given the issues, events and/or crises that affect their industry environments.
Enterprise value and disclosure level: Evidences in the Brazilian market
Authors: Garcia Fabio Gallo , Filho Elmo Tambosi , Moreira Luiz Maurício Franco
Published: January 2017

There is a strong tendency in global markets towards an enhanced level of corporate transparency regarding the activities of companies and, as a result, information on their performance. The Purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between greater disclosure levels and shareholder value creation. Increasing levels of disclosure are required from companies‟ management before shareholders and the society in general. Obscure practices that fail to take into consideration the best interests of shareholders increase risks and cause shares to lose liquidity. The São Paulo Stock Exchange‟s “Novo Mercado” (“New Market”) emerged from the intent to improve the Brazilian stock market by adopting best practices in corporate governance, adding transparency to disclosed information, and heightening the respect for the interests of shareholders, whether they may be minority or not. The “Novo Mercado” intends to foster a differentiated environment in which companies committed to corporate governance are recognized and can benefit from better stock prices, resulting in lower placement costs and increased liquidity. Our research will assume that companies with American Depositary Receipts - ADRs are committed to a higher level of disclosure as a result of the requirements of the Security Exchange Commission – SEC, and the Financial Accounting Standards Board - FASB; an empiric study about these firms will be performed. We will determine, through a Study Event concerned with cases where ADR have been issued, which consequences of the commitment to higher levels of disclosure as regards shareholder are responsible for value creation, and what are the reflections on the stock price quoted in the Brazilian market.
Loss of α2δ-1 Calcium Channel Subunit Function Increases the Susceptibility for Diabetes
Authors: Mastrolia Vincenzo , Flucher Sylvia M. , Obermair Gerald J. , Drach Mathias , Hofer Helene , Renström Erik , Schwartz Arnold , Striessnig Jörg , Flucher Bernhard E. , Tuluc Petronel
Published: January 2017

Reduced pancreatic β-cell function or mass is the critical problem in developing diabetes. Insulin release from β-cells depends on Ca2+ influx through high voltage–gated Ca2+ channels (HVCCs). Ca2+ influx also regulates insulin synthesis and insulin granule priming and contributes to β-cell electrical activity. The HVCCs are multisubunit protein complexes composed of a pore-forming α1 and auxiliary β and α2δ subunits. α2δ is a key regulator of membrane incorporation and function of HVCCs. Here we show that genetic deletion of α2δ-1, the dominant α2δ subunit in pancreatic islets, results in glucose intolerance and diabetes without affecting insulin sensitivity. Lack of the α2δ-1 subunit reduces the Ca2+ currents through all HVCC isoforms expressed in β-cells equally in male and female mice. The reduced Ca2+ influx alters the kinetics and amplitude of the global Ca2+ response to glucose in pancreatic islets and significantly reduces insulin release in both sexes. The progression of diabetes in males is aggravated by a selective loss of β-cell mass, while a stronger basal insulin release alleviates the diabetes symptoms in most α2δ-1−/− female mice. Together, these findings demonstrate that the loss of the Ca2+ channel α2δ-1 subunit function increases the susceptibility for developing diabetes in a sex-dependent manner.
El Licenciado en Administración y Finanzas y su desempeño profesional en las Mipymes / The Bachelor of Administration and Finance and their professional performance in Mipymes
Authors: Patrón Cortés Roger Manuel , Argüelles Ma Luis Alfredo , Fajardo Mario Javier
Published: January 2017

Esta  investigación  tuvo  como  objetivo  determinar  si  los  Licenciados  en  Administración  y Finanzas de la Facultad de Contaduría y Administración de la Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, prefieren crear empresas o trabajar por cuenta ajena. Este trabajo fue exploratorio de corte cualitativo. El 39 % de los Licenciados en Administración y Finanzas trabajan en el gobierno y el 17 % en bancos, casas de préstamo y despachos. Se encontró que el 6 % de los Licenciados en Administración y Finanzas trabajan de manera independiente o tienen una empresa propia y el 94 % trabaja por cuenta ajena. Lo que indica que se tiene un nivel muy bajo de la actividad emprendedora y por tanto del desarrollo económico empresarial del estado de Campeche. Los empresarios manifestaron como fortalezas sus conocimientos en las materias deProyectos de Inversión y Finanzas; mientras que los trabajadores por cuenta ajena indicaron las materias  del  área  de  Administración  y  Finanzas.  Ambos  grupos  manifestaron  que  existen algunas deficiencias por la forma en que fueron impartidas algunas materias o bien, les faltó actualización, lo que consideraron como una debilidad. En cuanto a los componentes necesarios para coadyuvar la creación de sus propias empresas consideraron importante vincular más a fondo el ambiente empresarial. Para resolver sus problemas los empresarios utilizan la planeación y la toma de decisiones, mientras que los trabajadores por cuenta ajena están en espera de una oportunidad. Además, opinaron que no tienen que ser empresarios para ser socialmente responsables y contribuir al desarrollo económico del estado de Campeche y México.
Los efectos de “Jova” en el municipio de Autlán de Navarro, Jalisco, México: un caso histórico / The effects of "Jova" in the municipality of Navarro Autlán, Jalisco, México: a case history
Authors: Olguín-López José Luis , Guevara-Gutiérrez Rubén Darío , Ramírez Romero José Manuel , Alvarez Rodríguez Marcelina Raquel
Published: January 2017

Este trabajo proporciona información de los efectos del Huracán “Jova” el pasado Octubre del 2011, fenómeno clasificado como atípico en el municipio de Autlán de Navarro, Jalisco, México. Registrado en un período de tiempo de 18 horas, con 330 mm de lluvia acumulada promedio (período de retorno de 75 años); lámina que alteró la capacidad de escorrentía en los cauces fluviales, causando desbordamientos y daños severos en zonas urbana y agrícola. Éste favoreció el ciclo de lluvias anual de la región (más de 40% de lámina precipitada) y el volumen total de capacidad de las presas (más de 45%). El objetivo fue describir y analizar la distribución del huracán “Jova”, su impacto e interacción en los usos del suelo como actividades primarias; se resalta la importancia de la información climatológica, útil en la toma de decisiones y en la planeación estratégica del territorio.
El foro virtual como estrategia de aprendizaje en la asignatura biología del 5to año del liceo bolivariano “santa bolívar” del distrito escolar n°12, municipio Andrés Eloy Blanco del Estado Barinas, Venezuela
Authors: Alvarado Ortiz Juan de Jesús , Flores Ricardez Alejandro Gregorio , Avendaño Abarca Reina Guadalupe
Published: January 2017

La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo proponer el foro virtual como estrategia de aprendizaje en la asignatura Biología, (específicamente en el tema de Ingeniería Genética),  del 5to año del Liceo Bolivariano “Santa Bolívar”, del Municipio Andrés Eloy Blanco del Estado Barinas. Esta es una investigación binacional, construida con el esfuerzo de dos instituciones: el Liceo Bolivariano “Santa Bolívar” (Venezuela)  y el Instituto Tecnológico de Comitán (México). Se fundamentó sobre la base de la teoría constructivista. La investigación se orientó por el método aplicable a los Proyectos Factibles, el cual se estructuró tres fases: diagnóstico, diseño y factibilidad de la propuesta. Así mismo se apoyo sobre el diseño de campo, por cuanto los datos se recolectaron directamente de la realidad. La población estuvo constituida por 50 (cincuenta) estudiantes del año escolar 2009-2010. La información se recopiló a través de la aplicación de un cuestionario cerrado con preguntas dicotómicas, el cual fue validado por el juicio de expertos, el cual al ser empleado y analizado mediante estadística descriptiva evidenció la necesidad de la propuesta y sobre esa base se procedió a la fase de  elaboración. La presente propuesta de un foro virtual aspira brindar ambientes interactivos en la educación presencial, propiciando en los estudiantes de bachillerato aprendizaje independiente.
Gestión del conocimiento y estrategias de aprendizaje mediados por TIC / Knowledge management and learning strategies through ICT
Authors: Peña Estrada Claudia Cintya , Velázquez García Luis Ambrosio
Published: January 2017

El reto para desarrollar estrategias de aprendizaje, es determinar cómo los aspirantes de un propedéutico a distancia aprenden a compartir experiencias, conocimientos y técnicas que se aplican en la vida diaria y que además se adaptan a diferentes contextos. La creación de redes para la gestión del conocimiento es otra estrategia, que conduce a crear un aprendizaje permanente a lo largo de la vida y que aunado a las Tecnologías de Información y la Comunicación, amplían el horizonte de las competencias para la construcción de escenarios sociales, económicos y educativos. Por ello la Facultad de Contaduría y Administración de la Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, desde el 2009, incursionó en el uso de las tecnologías como estrategia de aprendizaje,  para ofrecer el propedéutico a distancia, como apoyo para el ingreso a la Facultad. Los aspirantes realizan actividades encaminadas a desarrollar competencias y con ello gestionar el conocimiento.
El Análisis Situacional del Trabajo, una alternativa para el desarrollo de los planes de estudios de la Ingeniería en Energías Renovables en la Universidad Tecnológica de Altamira / Labor Situation Analysis, an alternative for the development of Renewable
Authors: González Hernández José Genaro
Published: January 2017

Los grandes  avances de la ciencia y la tecnología han llevado a la renovación de programas de estudio e incluso a la apertura de nuevas carreras a nivel profesional (SEP, 2015). La gestión de una nueva opción de estudios a nivel licenciatura o posgrado, es un proceso que conlleva a la articulación cuidadosa de varias etapas, entre las que se incluyen los estudios preliminares, análisis laboral del entorno, definición de las competencias del profesionista, validación del proyecto de formación, producción del programa de estudios, aprobación del programa y su implantación (CGUTyP, 2015). La presente investigación es un estudio realizado en la zona conurbada de Tampico, Madero y Altamira a través de encuestas y reuniones efectuadas con diversos empresarios relacionados con las necesidades energéticas de la zona, quienes proporcionaron información importante para definir las características, habilidades y conocimientos que debe poseer el Ingeniero en Energías Renovables para desempeñarse apropiadamente y cubrir las necesidades demandadas por la industria. Esta información fue la base para el desarrollo del programa de estudio de la Ingeniería en Energías Renovables.Análisis Situacional del Trabajo, competencias, habilidades, conocimientos, energías renovables
Planes de estudio o currículos de las licenciaturas en Ingeniería Química, IQ, e Ingeniería Bioquímica, IBQ, 2010, del Instituto Tecnológico de Veracruz (ITV), dependiente del Tecnológico Nacional de México TNM: Un análisis comparativo.
Authors: Barradas Dermitz Dulce María , Lara Carvajal Guadalupe Isabel , Miranda Medina Anilú , Hernández Carrión Lizbeth Alejandra , Hayward Jones Patricia Margaret , Sánchez Hernández Vania Yael , Luna Carrillo Georgina
Published: January 2017

El análisis comparativo de áreas del conocimiento por créditos académicos SATCA de los planes de estudio de IBQ e IQ que imparte el ITV, reveló que en tres de las cinco áreas (Ciencias de la Ingeniería CI, Ingeniería Aplicada IA, otras), estos créditos no tienen diferencia significativa, indicando equivalencia en la formación de los egresados. Donde se observó una diferencia fue en el porcentaje de créditos SATCA en las áreas Ciencias Básicas y Matemáticas CByM y de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades CSyH, siendo mayor el porcentaje de créditos en el  plan de IBQ que en el de IQ. Dos elementos de reflexión se generaron sobre estos últimos aspectos, uno referido a la ausencia de la Biología como ciencia básica en el plan de estudios de IQ del Sistema de Educación Superior Tecnológica, asunto que no deja de ser preocupante a la luz de planes de IQ de otras instituciones nacionales o extranjeras de prestigio que han incorporado a esta ciencia básica desde hace por lo menos veinte años. El otro aspecto es el de la necesidad de un mayor acento social y humanístico en ese mismo plan de estudios, para una equilibrada formación integral. En cuanto al análisis programa por programa de los planes de estudio, este reiteró el grado de similitud entre los mismos, produciendo aproximadamente 74 % de contenidos con diferencias de nula a media, y 26 % de diferencia sensible. Se recomienda, entre otros puntos, la realización de un proceso de equivalencia de los planes de estudio u homologación por la autoridad educacional correspondiente.
Benefits of Rural Biogas Implementation to Economy and Environment: Boyolali Case Study
Authors: Tazi Hnyine Zakaria , Sagala Saut , Lubis Wahyu , Yamin Dodon
Published: January 2017

Selo, a small agricultural-based village in Boyolali, Central-Java, Indonesia has initiated small-scale rural biogas adoption as it presumably reduces the consumption of LPG, firewood, chemical fertilizer and (women’s) overall workload, which especially suitable due to the relatively high use of cattle in that area As environmental problems such as global warming from fossil fuel consumption and land degradation from deforestation and overuse of chemical fertilizers, and socio-economic problems as gender empowerment and self-sufficiency are becoming more pressing, it is useful to analyse the benefits of biogas as an alternative renewable energy technology (RET) provision in rural areas. This paper aims to assess the benefits of rural biogas adoption from an economic perspective, through calculating the direct and indirect benefits obtained from biogas adoption in Selo. For this, a field survey was carried out in Selo to ask questions to biogas users (N=21) and non-users (N=5) on their energy and fertilizer consumption, as well as emissions reductions resulting from biogas adoption. Based on the analysis, oon average, a household with biogas saves 490 kWh month–1, 20,000 IDR month–1,185 kg CO2e month–1.Chemical fertilizer consumption remains remarkably high, which may due to a lack of awareness on the potential of digester slurry by the farmers, for indeed, reduction of chemical fertilizer use would help address some environmental problems. Biogas quality of one household has also been determined by comparing its heating value to that of methane; the methane percentage (MP) was approximately 31%. The quality is considerably lower than expected from the literature (i.e. around 60%), which may be due to the farmers neither mixing nor supplying water to the dung. Trainings providing methods for improving digester overall effectiveness to particularly the women-folk may enhance digester management and thus biogas production, as they form the main primary operatives. Despite the room for improvement, the existing results clearly show that biogas adoption significantly reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, household energy costs, workload, improves environmental conditions and generates income through carbon credit exchange. Therefore, under the notions of sustainable development, environmental preservation and self-sufficiency, policy makers and NGOs should expedite their support in biogas development, e.g. by providing subsidies and awareness raising.
Institutional Analysis of Watershed Manangement in Batam Island
Authors: Donie Syahrul
Published: January 2017

This study aimed to look at the institutional condition of the current watershed management and institutional models (management authority) which were relevant to Batam Island in the future. The data collection was conducted by interview techniques and was validated through focus group discussions. The data were described and analyzed with SCP (structure, conduct, performance) method for relevant stakeholders’ data, legislation, and with KIPA (quadrant interpretative performance analysis) method for data of interest and power of stakeholders. The results showed that the watershed management institutional in Batam Island was still overlapping. According to the regulations, the Management Board (BP) of Batam Island was given the authority to manage and to use land and water; on the other hand the Local Government (Mayor) was facilitated by BPDAS KEPRI (Watershed Management Institute of Riau Islands) to also arrange an integrated watershed management. The results of discussions showed that BP Batam was an institute of having interest and power as well as key position in achieving successful watershed management. Based on this study, it was suggested that BP Batam should be given authority in watershed management in Batam Island, which keeps referring to the norms, standards, procedures, and indicators set by the central government.
Using Water Balance to Analyze Water Availability for Communities ( A Case Study in Some Areas of Bengawan Solo Watershed)
Authors: Anna Alif Noor , Priyono Kuswaji Dwi , Suharjo Suharjo , Priyana Yuli
Published: January 2017

This study aimed: (a) to determine the general water balance at the Upstream and Midstream of Bengawan Solo Watershed by using Thornthwaite-Mather model, and (b) to determine the fulfillment of domestic water demand in the Upstream and Midstream of Bengawan Solo Watershed. Prevailing climate change has affected the condition of water source in Upstream and Midstream of Bengawan Solo Watershed. One of the impacts was extreme fluctuation of meteorological water availability that might cause flood and drought. Survey was selected as the research method while descriptive quantitative method was used for data analysis. The findings indicated the difference between precipitation and corrected evapotranspiration (P-EP) at the Upstream and Midstream of Bengawan Solo Watershed was between (-11.19 mm) to (78.56 mm). The highest value was obtained by Bambang Sub-watershed and the lowest was Wiroko Temon Sub-watershed. Positive value indicated the water surplus while negative value indicated water deficit. Domestic water demand for local communities was in the range of 50,782,500 liters to 131,690,700 liters, and the level of water availability varied, namely fulfilled and unfulfilled.
Impact of Radiographic Imaging of the Shoulder Joint on Patient Management: An Advanced-Practice Physical Therapist's Approach
Authors: Razmjou Helen , Christakis Monique , Kennedy Deborah , Robarts Susan , Holtby Richard
Published: January 2017

Purpose: Recent care innovations using advanced-practice physical therapists (APPs) as alternative health care providers are promising. However, information related to the clinical decision making of APPs is limited with respect to ordering shoulder-imaging investigations and the impact of these investigations on patient management. The purpose of this study was twofold: (1) to explore the clinical decision making of the APP providing care in a shoulder clinic by examining the relationship between clinical examination findings and reasons for ordering imaging investigations and (2) to examine the impact on patient management of ordered investigations such as plain radiographs, ultrasound (US), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and magnetic resonance arthrogram (MRA). Method: This was a prospective study of consecutive patients with shoulder complaints. Results: A total of 300 patients were seen over a period of 12 months. Plain radiographs were ordered for 241 patients (80%); 39 (13%) received MRI, 27 (9%) US, and 7 (2%) MRA. There was a relationship between clinical examination findings and ordering plain radiographs and US (ps=0.047 to <0.0001). Plain radiographs ordered to examine the biomechanics of the glenohumeral joint affected management (χ21=8.66, p=0.003). Finding a new diagnosis was strongly correlated with change in management for all imaging investigations (ps=0.001 to <0.0001). Conclusion: Skilled, extended-role physical therapists rely on history and clinical examination without overusing costly imaging. The most important indicator of change in management was finding a new diagnosis, regardless of the type of investigation ordered.