bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stand Dynamics, Humus Type and Water Balance Explain Aspen Long Term Productivity across Canada
Authors: Anyomi Kenneth , Lorenzetti François , Bergeron Yves , Leduc Alain
Published: February 2015

This study examined the relative importance of soil, stand development and climate hypotheses in driving productivity for a species that is widely distributed in North America. Inventory plots, 3548 of such, either dominated by aspen or made up of species mixture of which aspen occurs in dominant canopy position were sampled along a longitudinal gradient from Quebec to British Columbia. Site index (SI), was used as a measure of productivity, and soil, climate and stand attributes were correlated with site index in order to determine their effects on productivity. Results show a decline in productivity with high moisture deficit. Soil humus correlates significantly with SI but does not sufficiently capture differential rates of litter deposition and decomposition effects over the long-term. Consequently, aspen composition, stand ageing, and stand structural changes dominate variability in productivity. Within the context where deciduous cover has being increasing, there are implications for forest productivity.
Identification of the Specific Interactors of the Human Lariat RNA Debranching Enzyme 1 Protein
Authors: Masaki So , Yoshimoto Rei , Kaida Daisuke , Hata Asuka , Satoh Takayuki , Ohno Mutsuhito , Kataoka Naoyuki
Published: February 2015

In eukaryotes, pre-mRNA splicing is an essential step for gene expression. We have been analyzing post-splicing intron turnover steps in higher eukaryotes. Here, we report protein interaction between human Debranching enzyme 1 (hDbr1) and several factors found in the Intron Large (IL) complex, which is an intermediate complex of the intron degradation pathway. The hDbr1 protein specifically interacts with xeroderma pigmentosum, complementeation group A (XPA)-binding protein 2 (Xab2). We also attempted to identify specific interactors of hDbr1. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments followed by mass spectrometry analysis identified a novel protein as one of the specific interactors of hDbr1. This protein is well conserved among many species and shows the highest similarity to yeast Drn1, so it is designated as human Dbr1 associated ribonuclease 1 (hDrn1). hDrn1 directly interacts with hDbr1 through protein–protein interaction. Furthermore, hDrn1 shuttles between the nucleus and the cytoplasm, as hDbr1 protein does. These findings suggest that hDrn1 has roles in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm, which are highly likely to involve hDbr1.
Scopoletin Protects against Methylglyoxal-Induced Hyperglycemia and Insulin Resistance Mediated by Suppression of Advanced Glycation Endproducts (AGEs) Generation and Anti-Glycation
Authors: Chang Wen-Chang , Wu Shinn-Chih , Xu Kun-Di , Liao Bo-Chieh , Wu Jia-Feng , Cheng An-Sheng
Published: February 2015

Recently, several types of foods and drinks, including coffee, cream, and cake, have been found to result in high methylglyoxal (MG) levels in the plasma, thus causing both nutritional and health concerns. MG can be metabolized by phase-II enzymes in liver through the positive regulation of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). In this study, we investigated the ability of scopoletin (SP) to protect against MG-induced hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. Recently, SP was shown to be a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ activator to elevate insulin sensitivity. We investigated the effects of oral administration of SP on the metabolic, biochemical, and molecular abnormalities characteristic of type 2 diabetes in MG-treated Wistar rats to understand the potential mechanism of scopoletin for diabetes protection. Our results suggested that SP activated Nrf2 by Ser40 phosphorylation, resulting in the metabolism of MG into d-lactic acid and the inhibition of AGEs generation, which reduced the accumulation of AGEs in the livers of MG-induced rats. In this manner, SP improved the results of the oral glucose tolerance test and dyslipidemia. Moreover, SP also increased the plasma translocation of glucose transporter-2 and promoted Akt phosphorylation caused by insulin treatment in MG-treated FL83B hepatocytes. In contrast, SP effectively suppressed protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) expression, thereby alleviating insulin resistance. These findings suggest that SP acts as an anti-glycation and anti-diabetic agent, and thus has therapeutic potential for the prevention of diabetes.
Correction: El Azab, I.H., et al. Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Novel 2H-Chromene Derivatives Bearing Phenylthiazolidinones and Their Biological Activity Assessment. Molecules 2014, 19, 19648-19664
Authors: El Azab Islam , Youssef Mohamed , Amin Amin
Published: February 2015

The authors wish to revise the Author Affiliation section of the title paper, published in Molecules [1], (doi:10.3390/molecules191219648, website: http://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/19/12/19648). To recognize the fact that the research described was performed in part at the facilities of Taif University and to acknowledge that institution’s generous financial support[...]
False Alarm Reduction in BSN-Based Cardiac Monitoring Using Signal Quality and Activity Type Information
Authors: Tanantong Tanatorn , Nantajeewarawat Ekawit , Thiemjarus Surapa
Published: February 2015

False alarms in cardiac monitoring affect the quality of medical care, impacting on both patients and healthcare providers. In continuous cardiac monitoring using wireless Body Sensor Networks (BSNs), the quality of ECG signals can be deteriorated owing to several factors, e.g., noises, low battery power, and network transmission problems, often resulting in high false alarm rates. In addition, body movements occurring from activities of daily living (ADLs) can also create false alarms. This paper presents a two-phase framework for false arrhythmia alarm reduction in continuous cardiac monitoring, using signals from an ECG sensor and a 3D accelerometer. In the first phase, classification models constructed using machine learning algorithms are used for labeling input signals. ECG signals are labeled with heartbeat types and signal quality levels, while 3D acceleration signals are labeled with ADL types. In the second phase, a rule-based expert system is used for combining classification results in order to determine whether arrhythmia alarms should be accepted or suppressed. The proposed framework was validated on datasets acquired using BSNs and the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database. For the BSN dataset, acceleration and ECG signals were collected from 10 young and 10 elderly subjects while they were performing ADLs. The framework reduced the false alarm rate from 9.58% to 1.43% in our experimental study, showing that it can potentially assist physicians in diagnosing a vast amount of data acquired from wireless sensors and enhance the performance of continuous cardiac monitoring.
Rapid and Efficient Estimation of Pea Resistance to the Soil-Borne Pathogen Fusarium oxysporum by Infrared Imaging
Authors: Rispail Nicolas , Rubiales Diego
Published: February 2015

Fusarium wilts are widespread diseases affecting most agricultural crops. In absence of efficient alternatives, sowing resistant cultivars is the preferred approach to control this disease. However, actual resistance sources are often overcome by new pathogenic races, forcing breeders to continuously search for novel resistance sources. Selection of resistant accessions, mainly based on the evaluation of symptoms at timely intervals, is highly time-consuming. Thus, we tested the potential of an infra-red imaging system in plant breeding to speed up this process. For this, we monitored the changes in surface leaf temperature upon infection by F. oxysporum f. sp. pisi in several pea accessions with contrasting response to Fusarium wilt under a controlled environment. Using a portable infra-red imaging system we detected a significant temperature increase of at least 0.5 °C after 10 days post-inoculation in the susceptible accessions, while the resistant accession temperature remained at control level. The increase in leaf temperature at 10 days post-inoculation was positively correlated with the AUDPC calculated over a 30 days period. Thus, this approach allowed the early discrimination between resistant and susceptible accessions. As such, applying infra-red imaging system in breeding for Fusarium wilt resistance would contribute to considerably shorten the process of selection of novel resistant sources.
Network Analysis for a Better Water Use Configuration in the Baiyangdian Basin, China
Authors: Mao Xufeng , Yuan Donghai , Wei Xiaoyan , Chen Qiong , Yan Chenling , He Liansheng
Published: February 2015

Nowadays, an increasing shortage of water resources intensifies the contradiction among different water-using sectors in the social-economic-ecological complex system. To adjust water used configuration in a holistic framework, a water use system (WUS) model was constructed with inclusive five water-using sectors including aquatic systems, primary industry, secondary industry, tertiary industry and resident consumption. The Baiyangdian Basin in Northern China was used as a case area. Six years data from 2008 to 2013 were used to quantify the model. By introducing the ecological network analysis (EAN), we holistically assessed the WUS under different water use configuration. System organization, activities and development degree, etc. were used to character the prosperities of the water use system. Results indicate that the WUS encountered a lasting degradation in system organization (AMI index decreased in an annual rate of 0.6%) and development degree though with an ascending system activities in the studies periods (with an annual growth rate of 11.3%). Scenario analysis results suggest several potential ways to achieve a better water use configuration in this basin, such as environmental and ecological restoration, water-saving technology and water recycling rate, etc. The current study may provide ways to optimize water use structure to balance the interests of different sectors both ecologically and economically.
Policy and Economics of Managed Aquifer Recharge and Water Banking
Authors: Megdal Sharon , Dillon Peter
Published: February 2015

Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) and water banking are of increasing importance to water resources management. MAR can be used to buffer against drought and changing or variable climate, as well as provide water to meet demand growth, by making use of excess surface water supplies and recycled waters. Along with hydrologic and geologic considerations, economic and policy analyses are essential to a complete analysis of MAR and water banking opportunities. The papers included in this Special Issue fill a gap in the literature by revealing the range of economic and policy considerations relevant to the development and implementation of MAR programs. They illustrate novel techniques that can be used to select MAR locations and the importance and economic viability of MAR in semi-arid to arid environments. The studies explain how MAR can be utilized to meet municipal and agricultural water demands in water-scarce regions, as well as assist in the reuse of wastewater. Some papers demonstrate how stakeholder engagement, ranging from consideration of alternatives to monitoring, and multi-disciplinary analyses to support decision-making are of high value to development and implementation of MAR programs. The approaches discussed in this collection of papers, along with the complementary and necessary hydrologic and geologic analyses, provide important inputs to water resource managers.
Continuous within‐plant variation as a source of intraspecific functional diversity: Patterns, magnitude, and genetic correlates of leaf variability in Helleborus foetidus (Ranunculaceae)
Authors: Herrera Carlos M. , Medrano Mónica , Bazaga Pilar
Published: February 2015

• Premise of the study: Continuous within‐plant variation in quantitative traits of reiterated, homologous structures is a component of intraspecific variation, but its contribution to functional diversity remains largely unexplored. For the perennial Helleborus foetidus, we measured functional leaf traits to quantify the contribution of within‐plant variation to intraspecific functional variance and evaluate whether within‐plant variability itself deserves separate consideration.

• Methods: Within‐individual variation in eight leaf traits was quantified for 138 plants sampled from 10 widely spaced locations in the Sierra de Cazorla, southeastern Spain. An amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) technique was used to look for associations between within‐plant variability and specific AFLP markers.

• Key results: Leaflets from basal positions in ramets were longer, heavier, had greater surface area and larger stomata, and lower specific area, stomatal index, and stomatal density than those from distal positions. Continuous variation between leaves from the same ramet was the main source of population‐wide variance for most traits. Within‐plant variability differed among populations. Individuals differed in within‐plant variability, which was largely independent of trait means and associated with genetic characteristics. Up to four AFLP markers were associated with the within‐plant variability level of a given leaf trait.

• Conclusions: Subindividual variability in continuous leaf traits was independent of plant means and related to genetic features. The within‐individual component generally exceeded the between‐individual component of intraspecific variance. Within‐plant variation may broaden the ecological breadth and enhance stability and persistence of plant populations and communities and may provide novel insights when incorporated in trait‐based community ecology models.
Uncommon surgical emergencies in neonatology
Authors: Angotti R. , Bulotta A.L. , Ferrara F. , Molinaro F. , Cerchia E. , Meucci D. , Messina M.
Published: February 2015

Objective. Over the past decade, multiple factors have changed the pattern of neonatal surgical emergencies. An increase in prenatal screenings and the development of neonatal tertiary care centres have changed the clinical approach to these kids. Materials and methods. Between 1995 to 2011 were retrospectively reviewed 34 patients with diagnosis of uncommon rare neonatal surgical emergencies at our institute. We analyzed: sex, gestational age, weight at birth, primary pathology, prenatal diagnosis, associated anomalies, age and weight at surgery, clinical presentation, start of oral feeding and hospitalization. The follow-up was performed at 6,12, 24 and 36 months. Results. There were 21 male and 13 female. The gestational age ranged between 28 and 36 weeks. The weight at birth ranged between 700 and 1400 grams. Oral feeding was started between 4th and 10th postoperative day. The average hospitalization was about 70.47 days. To date, all patients have finished the followup. They are healthy. Conclusion. The outcome of the patients with uncommon surgical emergencies is different based on the etiology. Overall survival is generally good but is influenced by the associated anomalies.
Clinical Utility of Exercise Training in Heart Failure with Reduced and Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Haq Muhammad Asrar Ul , Goh Cheng Yee , Levinger Itamar , Wong Chiew , Hare David L.
Published: February 2015

Reduced exercise tolerance is an independent predictor of hospital readmission and mortality in patients with heart failure (HF). Exercise training for HF patients is well established as an adjunct therapy, and there is sufficient evidence to support the favorable role of exercise training programs for HF patients over and above the optimal medical therapy. Some of the documented benefits include improved functional capacity, quality of life (QoL), fatigue, and dyspnea. Major trials to assess exercise training in HF have, however, focused on heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFREF). At least half of the patients presenting with HF have heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF) and experience similar symptoms of exercise intolerance, dyspnea, and early fatigue, and similar mortality risk and rehospitalization rates. The role of exercise training in the management of HFPEF remains less clear. This article provides a brief overview of pathophysiology of reduced exercise tolerance in HFREF and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF), and summarizes the evidence and mechanisms by which exercise training can improve symptoms and HF. Clinical and practical aspects of exercise training prescription are also discussed.
Necesidades de formación en Iberoamérica en el campo de agua y ciudad
Authors: Cabrera Enrique
Published: February 2015

La red temática Agua y Ciudad, financiada por CYTED (Programa Iberoamericano de Ciencia y Tecnología para el Desarrollo) tiene como objetivo principal identificar, particularmente en Iberoamérica, los problemas que obstaculizan que el agua se gestione de modo eficiente en las ciudades. Tanto por la magnitud del formidable problema al que nos referimos como por las limitadas posibilidades económicas de la Red, los esfuerzos se han centrado en la formación, convencidos de que aun no siendo condición suficiente para resolver un problema tan complejo, sí es una condición necesaria. Un objetivo, el de potenciar en Iberoamérica la formación en el ámbito agua y ciudad, que cobra especial relevancia tras la Cumbre de Santiago, en noviembre de 2007, en la que España anunció la creación de un fondo de 1500 millones de dólares para contribuir a la consecución de los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio en materia de aguas en Iberoamérica. En unos momentos en que, cual corresponde a un mundo globalizado, la crisis económica es general, la obligación de gestionar correctamente ese fondo es vital y en ese contexto la importancia de la formación está fuera de toda duda. No extraña, pues, que el Ministerio de Medio Ambiente, Medio Rural y Marino (MMAMRM) también haya apostado por potenciar este trabajo, pues no en vano aborda una de esas temáticas prioritarias que, por incidir directamente en la calidad de vida de los ciudadanos, posiblemente sea la más importante. Su objetivo es explorar el estado de la cuestión y, a partir de su conocimiento, construir una plataforma sobre la que facilitar la formación a todos los actores que toman decisiones en este ámbito. Para ello la Red Agua y Ciudad elaboró una encuesta para evaluar las necesidades de formación que ha sido cumplimentada por toda Iberoamérica. Los resultados (y sus detalles complementarios) se han trasladado a este documento.
Agua y ciudad en Iberoamérica. Una valoración
Authors: Cabrera Enrique
Published: February 2015

En un trabajo desarrollado en el marco de la red Agua y Ciudad, financiada por CYTED durante cuatro años (2006 a 2009 ambos incluidos) y de la que el autor fue su coordinador, se presentan los principales retos a los que se enfrenta Iberoamérica en lo referente a agua y saneamiento. Aunque el trabajo se desarrolló hace ahora tres años, la problemática y las conclusiones alcanzadas están completamente vigentes. La magnitud de los retos que se señalan evidencian que este problema es uno de los mayores que deberá resolver la sociedad del siglo XXI, máxime teniendo en cuenta la profundidad de una crisis económica cuyas dimensiones reales no se adivinaban cuando este informe se redactó.
Recapitulación de la metodología y resultados de los escenarios climáticos futuros y su impacto en los recursos hídricos: el caso de la Comunidad Valenciana (España)
Authors: Chirivella Vicente , Capilla José E.
Published: February 2015

En los últimos años la comunidad científica internacional parece haber alcanzado un consenso respecto a la existencia de un Cambio Climático debido, en parte, a la emisión de gases de efecto invernadero (GEIs). Según la mayoría de los escenarios climáticos desarrollados, este Cambio Climático, en el ámbito geográfico de la Comunidad Valenciana, se caracterizará, en las próximas décadas, por un incremento de las temperaturas, una disminución de las precipitaciones, y un aumento de los fenómenos extremos. Ante esta situación, se hace imprescindible elaborar un modelo de gestión de los recursos hídricos que integre: a) modelos climáticos para una completa caracterización de los futuros escenarios climáticos, b) modelos de impacto para evaluar la incidencia de aquellos sobre los recursos hídricos, y c) estrategias de adaptación ante tales impactos. En este artículo, resumimos el estado del arte en relación a la caracterización de los futuros escenarios climáticos en la Comunidad Valenciana, y en relación al conocimiento de sus impactos sobre los recursos hídricos. Se trata de una revisión cuyo objetivo fundamental es detectar áreas de mejora para futuros trabajos de investigación.
La revista ingeniería del agua. Casi veinte años de historia
Authors: Cabrera Enrique , Dolz Ripollès Josep , Roldán José
Published: February 2015

En lo que sigue se resume la historia de la revista Ingeniería del Agua que nació, allá por el año 1994, con dos objetivos. El primero convertirse en la plataforma que presentase el estado del conocimiento y los avances de la ingeniería del agua en castellano y, por extensión, en francés, italiano y portugués, las tres lenguas hermanas. De hecho varios de sus artículos vieron la luz en dos de ellas. El segundo, para establecer un puente de unión entre los mundos universitario y empresarial en un campo, el de la ingeniería del agua, de gran tradición tanto en España como en todo el Mediterráneo. No en vano es en este marco geográfico donde a lo largo de la historia nuestra ingeniería ha escrito sus páginas más gloriosas. Al echar con este artículo el telón parece necesario, con pragmatismo y sin nostalgia, efectuar un balance final. Tanto de los aciertos como de los desatinos, que de todo ha habido. Y es menester hacerlo para que si, en un futuro más o menos lejano, otro grupo universitario con savia renovada de nuevo enarbola esta bandera, el mejor legado que les podemos dejar es contarles esta historia. Así podrán aprender de ella para que, si alguien retoma una aventura que ha durado diecisiete años, el siguiente empeño no alcance a conocer un nuevo final.
Per capita de água frente as condições climáticas Cuiabá-MT, Brasi
Authors: Silva Welitom Ttatom Pereira da , Moraes e Silva V. Sebastião , Gomes L. Airton , Martínez Espinosa M.
Published: February 2015

O estudo teve por objetivo a determinação da intensidade de interveniência das variáveis climáticas sobre a quota per capita de água, bem como sua forma de comportamento frente a diferentes condições climáticas na cidade de Cuiabá, estado de Mato Grosso, Brasil. A metodologia empregada fundamentou-se na coleta de uma serie histórica de dados junto a diversas instituições do estado de Mato Grosso, no tratamento dos dados, proposição de modelos de regressão com diferentes modelos (lineares, polinomiais, exponenciais de natureza logarítmica e aritmética), analise de trajetórias e analise fatorial. Os resultados indicaram a não associação entre as variáveis originais, no entanto, verificou-se fraco intercorrelacionamento intrínseco entre as variáveis de clima e consumo per capita de água.
Safety and Cost Efficiency in Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Gough Ian R , Young-Chul Oh Thomas
Published: February 2015

Aim

Recent developments in technology aim to reduce operative time and improve safety, albeit at significant cost. Thyroidectomy is a common procedure worldwide and an assessment of costefficiency is important.

Materials and methods

An audit of prospectively collected data on all thyroidectomies performed by a single endocrine surgeon at two private hospitals from 2009 to 2013. The technique was a conventional open dissection emphasizing capsular dissection with ligature and ligaclip and without intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM). The operative duration was compared to those reported in literature with the use of vessel sealing devices (VSDs). Estimated time-dependent operating theater cost was used to determine the amount of time saving required by VSDs to match the costefficiency of our technique.

Results

There were 503 thyroidectomies with the expected mix of pathologies. There were zero permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve injuries (0.5% temporary, 746 nerves at risk), 0.6% permanent hypoparathyroidism (19.5% temporary, 308 completion and total thyroidectomies) and 0.6% hematoma. These outcomes compare favorably with published best practice. The median skin to skin operating time was 59 minutes for total and 35 minutes for hemithyroidectomies which are shorter than those reported with VSDs. The minimum time reduction required by VSDs to match the costefficiency of our technique was 27 minutes for hemithyroidectomy and 15 minutes for total thyroidectomy, which are longer than those reported in the literature.

Conclusion

Despite the current popularity of VSDs and the promotion of IONM, their routine use may not be justified. Technique is more important than technology.

How to cite this article

Young-Chul OT, Gough I. Safety and Cost Efficiency in Thyroid Surgery. World J Endoc Surg 2014;6(3):101-106.
Journal Clubs in Endocrine Surgery
Authors: Pradhan Roma , Tripati Navneet , Bansal Naval
Published: February 2015

Journal clubs are a medium to educate clinicians about the process of evidence based medicine. They are effective strategy to keep endocrine surgeons up to date with relevant literature. However, this exercise needs considerable expertise, skill and dedication on the part of both the presenter and moderator to make it a successful one. We have addressed the methodology for an effective journal club.

How to cite this article

Sabaretnam M, Tripati N, Bansal N, Pradhan R, Agarwal A. Journal Clubs in Endocrine Surgery. World J Endoc Surg 2014;6(3):123-126.
Brain Drain: Migration of Healthcare Professionals in a Globalized World
Authors: Mahindra Gaurav , Dangi Hamendra Kumar
Published: February 2015

Social, economic and technological developments due to globalization have led to a surge in international demand for skilled workforce. Developed economies have made concerted efforts in not only attracting but also in retaining such human capital. Healthcare sector has been no exception. With limited career opportunities within their own country and a host of pull factors in developed countries, India and other developing countries have seen an exodus of medical and other professionals, what is known as ‘Brain Drain’. Shortages thus resulting from migration of health workers have even mitigated the effects of increased domestic healthcare spending. The health workers hold strategic importance in a nation's health systems and disease control initiatives. The resulting imbalances could have a detrimental effect on the social as well as economic fabric of such sending countries. This study is an effort in understanding the factors encouraging human capital flight and thus seeking short-term and long-term measures in dealing with it. This research brings forth strategies to deal with brain drain by forming mutually beneficial relationships with the diasporas. This reciprocity will lead to circulation of skills between source and receiving countries. Formulating suitable policies would ensure correcting the human resource imbalances within countries on a sustainable basis.

How to cite this article

Mahindra G, Dangi HK. Brain Drain: Migration of Healthcare Professionals in a Globalized World. Int J Res Foundation Hosp Healthc Adm 2014;2(2):63-72.
Gap Analysis between Patients’ Expectations and Services Provided by Pharmacy Store of a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Bajpai Jharna , Gurbani Nirmal K
Published: February 2015

Pharmacy store of hospital is among one the major revenue generating area of hospital. Its performance can be a vital element in the success of any upcoming hospital. Nowadays, not only the availability of prescribed drugs matters but explanation of dose, frequency and duration of drugs to be taken, behavior of pharmacist and waiting time to get drugs play an important role in satisfaction of patients. The pharmacy store of the hospital provides more specialized and more time-saving services for patients. It also eases the financial burden on pharmacy users via drug discounts. A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted on 90 respondents. A self administered predesigned, pretested, structured questionnaire was given to selected respondents on first contact to the pharmacy store of the hospital with the aim to study the perception of patients and hospital on various parameters. Seventy-one percent respondents appreciated the accessibility to pharmacy. When segregated by sociodemographic characteristics females showed greater level of satisfaction than males, respondents above 50 years of age, respondents who were unmarried, those who had came for a follow-up were most satisfied with services. Eighty-six percent respondents appreciated the politeness in communication by pharmacists. There was some discordance between the perception of patients and the perception of hospital in accessibility to pharmacy. A large number of respondents were satisfied with clarity and brevity of information given by pharmacy staff, the presence of pharmacist, and availability of prescribed drugs.

How to cite this article

Bajpai J, Gurbani NK. Gap Analysis between Patients’ Expectations and Services Provided by Pharmacy Store of a Tertiary Care Hospital. Int J Res Foundation Hosp Healthc Adm 2014;2(2):73-78.
Need for Asset Management Systems to Improve Efficiency of Biomedical Engineering Department in Hospital
Authors: Patel Amrita , Shukla Kasturi , Uttekar Uday , Mane Mahesh , Dubey Rekha , Chandra Hem
Published: February 2015

Introduction

With advanced medical equipments being developed everyday, hospitals have assets that need expert maintenance in order to ensure their proper functioning. This study was undertaken to understand the problems related to asset management faced by the biomedical engineering department (BMED) at a 390 bedded tertiary hospital in Pune, Maharashtra.

Materials and methods

The cross-sectional study was conducted at a 390 bedded tertiary care hospital in Pune, India during May 2013. The BMED staff was interviewed to identify the problems faced by them in the current manual system of equipment record maintenance and the need for a computerized BMED record system. Data from January to April 2013 were analyzed to measure total number of entries/month, time required/entry and related errors.

Results

An average of 16 hours per month were spent on manual data entry of equipment maintenance and errors due to manual system led to problems like inaccurate reports to calculate breakdown time of equipments.

Conclusion

Computerized system software is the need of the hour for managing biomedical equipments. This will save many man-hours and also make the system more efficient.

How to cite this article

Patel A, Shukla K, Uttekar U, Mane M, Dubey R, Chandra H. Need for Asset Management Systems to Improve Efficiency of Biomedical Engineering Department in Hospital. Int J Res Foundation Hosp Healthc Adm 2014;2(2): 84-86.
To Formulate a Selective Patient Safety-related Policy for a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Aggarwal V , Gupta Shakti Kumar , Arya S , Singh S
Published: February 2015

Patient safety is the absence of preventable harm to a patient during the process of healthcare (WHO). Accuracy of patient identification remains a priority focus of healthcare organization. Identifying patients accurately presents many unique challenges in today's healthcare settings. We need to understand how human factors can be used to reduce adverse events. Using a human factor approach, the human system interface can be improved by providing better designed system and processes. This involves simplifying processes, standardizing procedures, providing back up when human fails, improving communication, redesigning equipment and engendering a consciousness of behavioral organization and technological limitation that lead to error. The above study was an initiative toward simplifying processes and standardizing procedures. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out between April to August 2013. The tool used was a check list made after an exhaustive review of literature and validated by experts in quality assurance from NABH accredited private hospitals. The study population of 100 people which included doctors, nurses, paramedical staff and quality managers of tertiary care public and private hospitals were approached for interaction against the back drop of the check list. Response rate was 61%. Policy was framed after incorporating inputs from responses received against the back drop of the check list.

How to cite this article

Singh S, Gupta SK, Arya S, Aggarwal V. To Formulate a Selective Patient Safety-related Policy for a Tertiary Care Hospital. Int J Res Foundation Hosp Healthc Adm 2014;2(2):94-102.
A Study of Hospital Infection Control Program against Normative Weighted Criteria at a Large Public Hospital
Authors: Kant Sunil , Mehta Jitender , Arya Sanjay , Gupta Shakti Kumar
Published: February 2015

Hospital infection control programs are important for prevention and control of hospital acquired infection in a healthcare facility. An evaluatory study was done to measure the quality dimensions of hospital infection control program in a public hospital to compare the program implementation in different speciality centers against the normative weighted criteria developed by Gupta and Kant (2002). Result showed variations in infection control program activities in various speciality centers. A centralized administration of infection control program and emphasis on more training and education is recommended.

How to cite this article

Mehta J, Arya S, Kant S, Gupta SK. A Study of Hospital Infection Control Program against Normative Weighted Criteria at a Large Public Hospital. Int J Res Foundation Hosp Healthc Adm 2014;2(2):130-132.
Size of wildfires in the Euro-Mediterranean region: observations and theoretical analysis
Authors: Hernandez C. , Drobinski P. , Turquety S. , Dupuy J.-L.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. MODIS satellite observations of fire size and ERA-Interim meteorological reanalysis are used to derive a relationship between burnt area and wind speed over the Mediterranean region and Eastern Europe. As intuitively expected, the burnt area associated to the largest wildfires is an increasing function of wind speed in most situations. It is always the case in Eastern Europe. It is also the case in the Mediterranean for moderate temperature anomaly. In situations of severe heatwaves and droughts, the relationship between burnt area and wind speed displays bimodal shape. Burnt areas are large for low 10 m wind speed (lower than 2 m s−1), decrease for moderate wind speed values (lower than 5 m s−1 and larger than 2 m s−1) and increase again for large wind speed (larger than 5 m s−1). To explain such behavior fire propagation is investigated using a probabilistic cellular automaton model. The observed relationship between burnt area and wind speed can be interpreted in terms of percolation threshold which mainly depends on local terrain slope and vegetation state (type, density, fuel moisture). In eastern Europe, the percolation threshold is never exceeded for observed wind speeds. In the Mediterranean Basin we see two behaviors. During moderately hot weather, the percolation threshold is passed when the wind grows strong. On the other hand, in situations of severe Mediterranean heatwaves and droughts, moderate wind speed values impair the propagation of the wildfire against the wind and do not sufficiently accelerate the forward propagation to allow a growth of wildfire size.
Heat sources within the Greenland Ice Sheet: dissipation, temperate paleo-firn and cryo-hydrologic warming
Authors: Lüthi M. P. , Ryser C. , Andrews L. C. , Catania G. A. , Funk M. , Hawley R. L. , Hoffman M. J. , Neumann T. A.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. Ice temperature profiles from the Greenland Ice Sheet contain information on the deformation history, past climates and recent warming. We present full-depth temperature profiles from two drill sites on a flow line passing through Swiss Camp, West Greenland. Numerical modeling reveals that ice temperatures are considerably higher than would be expected from heat diffusion and dissipation alone. The possible causes for this extra heat are evaluated using a Lagrangian heat flow model. The model results reveal that the observations can be explained with a combination of different processes: enhanced dissipation (strain heating) in ice-age ice, temperate paleo-firn, and cryo-hydrologic warming in deep crevasses.
Strain elastography in the characterization of renal cell carcinoma and angiomyolipoma
Authors: Keskin Suat , Güven Selçuk , Keskin Zeynep , Özbiner Hüseyin , Kerimoğlu Ülkü , Yeşildağ Ahmet
Published: February 2015

Introduction: We evaluate the diagnostic performance of strain elastography to differentiate renal cell carcinoma (RCC) from angiomyolipoma (AML).Methods: Strain elastography was performed in 65 patients (mean age 55.5 years; range: 32–81) who had renal lesions (24 AMLs and 41 RCCs) prospectively. Lesions were classified according to lesion size and histological subtypes. The strain ratios of the RCCs and AMLs were evaluated by a radiologist. The area under the curve and the cut-off point were used to assess diagnostic performance. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were obtained.Results: In assessing the mean strain ratio, we divided the groups in 3 according to size: (1) <20-mm lesions; (2) 20- to 40-mm lesions; and (3) >40-mm lesions; the respective mean strain ratios were: 1.5 ± 0.5 (range: 0.06–5.92), 2.8 ± 0.4 (range: 0.17–9.92), 2.7 ± 0.3 (range: 0.08–6.15). When RCCs and AMLs were compared, there was a statistically significant difference in the strain ratio among the 3 groups divided per lesion size (p < 0.01). For the strain ratio, the mean ± standard deviation was 1.1 ± 0.1 for AMLs and 3.4 ± 0.3 for RCCs (p < 0.01). When lesion subtypes were compared, there was a statistically significant difference in the strain ratio between the AML and clear cell RCC (p < 0.01).Conclusions: For assessing renal lesions, strain elastography and strain ratio values may be useful in differentiating RCCs from AMLs.
Development and incorporation of hybrid simulation OSCE into in-training examinations to assess multiple CanMEDS competencies in urologic trainees
Authors: Nguyen Laura , Tardioli Kim , Roberts Matthew , Watterson James
Published: February 2015

Introduction: As residency training requirements increasingly emphasize a competency-based approach, novel tools to directly evaluate Canadian Medical Education Directives for Specialists (CanMEDS) competencies must be developed. Incorporating simulation allows residents to demonstrate knowledge and skills in a safe, standardized environment. We describe a novel hybrid simulation station for use in a urology resident in-training Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE) to assess multiple CanMEDS competencies.Methods: An OSCE station was developed to assess Communicator, Health Advocate, Manager, and Medical Expert (including technical skills) CanMEDS roles. Residents interviewed a standardized patient, interacted with a nurse, performed flexible cystoscopy and attempted stent removal using a novel bladder/stent model. Communication was assessed using the Calgary-Cambridge Observational Guide, knowledge was assessed using a checklist, and technical skills were assessed using a previously validated global rating scale. Video debriefing allowed residents to review their performance. Face and discriminative validity were assessed, and feasibility was determined through qualitative post-examination interviews and cost analysis.Results: All 9 residents (postgraduate years [PGY] 3, 4, 5) completed the OSCE in 15 minutes. Communicator and knowledge scores were similar among all PGYs. Scores in technical skills were higher in PGY-5 compared with PGY-3/4 reside nts (mean score 79% vs. 73%). Residents and exam personnel felt the OSCE station allowed for realistic demonstration of competencies. Equipment cost was $218 for the exam station.Conclusions: We developed and implemented a hybrid simulation- based OSCE station to assess multiple CanMEDS roles. This approach was feasible and cost-effective; it also provided a framework for future development of similar OSCE stations to assess resident competencies across multiple domains.
Early experience with microsurgical spermatic cord denervation for chronic orchialgia at a Canadian centre
Authors: Cassidy Darby James
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Microsurgical spermatic cord denervation (MSCD) is an effective surgical technique to manage chronic orchalgia, but it has not been readily adopted by Canadian urosurgeons. This paper reviews the early experience of a single urosurgeon in Canada.Methods: Nine consecutive testicular units underwent MSCD over a 24 month period. These patients underwent MSCD after ruling out reversible causes and after a successful diagnostic spermatic cord block.Results: Of these patients, 77% (7/9) had a complete resolution and 22% (2/9) had a partial resolution of their pain symptoms following MSCD. There were no failures or complications.Conclusions: MSCD is an effective, safe, and reproducible surgical technique that should be included in the treatment armamentarium for chronic orchalgia.
Highlights of the University of Toronto Urology Update 2014
Authors: Editorial CUAJ
Published: February 2015

At the University of Toronto Urology Update 2014, a faculty of Canadian and American experts presented a series of lectures covering a range of topics in the field of urology. Areas of focus included prostate cancer (PCa), functional urology, erectile dysfunction (ED), and surgical topics (e.g., percutaneous nephrolithotomy [PCNL]).
Himeneo en la corte. Poder, representación y ceremonial nupcial en el arte y la cultura simbólica
Authors: Vives-Ferrándiz Sánchez Luis
Published: February 2015

Recensión crítica del libro de Inmaculada Rodríguez Moya y Víctor Mínguez Cornelles:Himeneo ien la corte. Poder, representación y ceremonial nupcial en el arte y la cultura simbólica, Madrid, CSIC, 2013.
Tur e Iraj, Caín y Abel: Semejanzas iconográficas en la interminable lucha del mal y el bien.
Authors: Igual Castelló Cristina
Published: February 2015

ABSTRACT: The duality between good and evil is a common topic in all civilizations regardless of chronology or geographical location. It is a conflict reflected in art history, and on the present occasion, through the iconographic types of Cain killing Abel as well as Tur murdering Iraj. The roots of these myths are deeply embedded in two highly relevant written sources, the Bible and the Shahnameh or The Book of Kings. The latter was written by the great Iranian poet Ferdowsi.  The legends, despite having different origins, nevertheless have many similarities and they share a particular iconographic type. I analyze each of the myths along with their pictorial representations, which connect the thought of different cultures. KEYWORDS: Tur, Iraj, Caín, Abel, Shahnaméh, Bible, envy, iconographic type.   RESUMEN: La dualidad entre el bien y el mal es un tema común en todas las civilizaciones independientemente de la cronología o la localización geográfica. Un conflicto reflejado en la historia del arte y en esta ocasión, figurado a través de los tipos iconográficos de Caín matando a Abel así como Tur asesinando a Iraj. Mitos que hunden su raíz en dos fuentes escritas de gran relevancia, la Biblia y el Shahnaméh o Libro de los Reyes, esta última redactada por el gran poeta iraní Ferdousí. Las leyendas, pese a tener un origen distinto, poseen numerosas similitudes y comparten un tipo iconográfico concreto. Analizamos cada uno de los mitos junto con sus representaciones pictóricas, conectando el pensamiento de las distintas culturas. PALABRAS CLAVES: Tur, Iraj, Caín, Abel, Shahnaméh, Biblia, envidia, tipo iconográfico.
Fuentes de información y recursos de utilidad para el estudio e investigación de la Emblemática
Authors: López Poza Sagrario
Published: February 2015

ABSTRACT: This study provides a list of sources and resources available for the study and research of emblem books and other materials produced by emblematic culture (15th-18th centuries), with a special focus on the contributions that have been produced in recent years with the widespread use of the Internet, both in terms of primary and secondary sources, as well as electronic resources (digital libraries, databases, digital editions with text encoding inner markup, search engines, specialized portals, etc.). KEYWORDS: Emblematics, Emblems, Imprese, Devices, Hieroglyphs, Resources for Emblem Studies.  RESUMEN: Este trabajo ofrece una relación de fuentes y recursos disponibles para el estudio y la investigación de los libros de emblemas y otros materiales producidos por la cultura emblemática (siglos XV-XVIII), poniendo especial interés en las aportaciones que se han producido en los últimos años con la generalización del uso de Internet, tanto en lo relativo a fuentes primarias como secundarias y recursos electrónicos (bibliotecas digitales, bases de datos, publicaciones con marcación, buscadores, portales especializados, etc.). PALABRAS CLAVES: Emblemática, emblemas, empresas, divisas, jeroglíficos, recursos para el estudio de la Emblemática.
Los fundamentos de la visualidad de la Prudencia
Authors: Montesinos Castañeda María
Published: February 2015

ABSTRACT: Prudence, as one of the cardinal virtues, is a theme that has been dealt with by numerous thinkers ever since Antiquity. Its broad treatment with regards to different aspects, such as time, governance, selection or advice, has been the object of many visual representations, which show a great variety of attributes, the foundations of which we find in written sources. KEYWORDS: Prudence, Cardinal Virtues.   RESUMEN: La Prudencia, como parte de las virtudes cardinales, ha sido tema a tratar por diferentes pensadores desde la Antigüedad. Su amplia consideración, en relación a diferentes aspectos, como el tiempo, el gobierno, la elección o el consejo, ha sido fruto de numerosas representaciones visuales que muestran gran variedad de atributos, cuyos fundamentos encontramos en las fuentes escritas. PALABRAS CLAVES: Prudencia, Virtudes Cardinales.
La divisa de las granadas del rey Enrique IV de Castilla y su estela posterior
Authors: López Poza Sagrario
Published: February 2015

ABSTRACT: This study analyzes the meaning of the impresa or device of the pomegranates, with the motto «Agro dulce», utilized by Henry IV (1425-1474), of the House of Trastámara, King of Castile from 1454 until his death. By means of a review of vestiges that remain of the device, especially in architectonic elements, I postulate that the pomegranate may have been used as the family impresa of the House of Trastámara and their descendants. This, it seems, can be deduced from the pictura of the device in several personal imprese of relatives who lived in the sixteenth century. KEYWORDS: pomegranate, devices, royal clemency, Henry IV, Catholic Monarchs, Catherine of Aragon, Charles V, Philip II of Spain.   RESUMEN: Se analiza el significado de la empresa o divisa de las granadas, con el mote «Agro dulce» empleada por Enrique IV (1425 –1474), de la casa de Trastámara, rey de Castilla desde 1454 hasta su muerte. Se da noticia de vestigios que se encuentran de la divisa, sobre todo en elementos arquitectónicos y se plantea la posibilidad de que la granada fuera empleada como divisa familiar de los Trastámara y sus descendientes. Así parece deducirse de la presencia de la pictura de la divisa en varias empresas personales de parientes que vivieron en el siglo XVI. PALABRAS CLAVES: granada, divisas, clemencia real, Enrique IV, Reyes Católicos, Catalina de Aragón, Carlos V, Felipe II.