bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Colorectal cancer risk factors in north-eastern Iran: A retrospective cross-sectional study based on geographical information systems, spatial autocorrelation and regression analysis
Authors: Goshayeshi Ladan , Pourahmadi Ali , Ghayour-Mobarhan Majid , Hashtarkhani Soheil , Karimian Sajad , Shahhosein Dastjerdi Reza , Eghbali Babak , Seyfi Efat , Kiani Behzad
Published: November 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cancer among females and the third most common malignancy in males in the world. No single risk factor has been identified, but there are many interrelated factors that together cause the disease. This retrospective, cross-sectional study aimed to identify potential spatial factors contributing to its geographical distribution. Data concerning 1,089 individuals with CRC from the Khorasan-Razavi Province in Iran, located in the North-East of the country, were obtained from the national CRC registry. Local Moran’s I statistic was performed to identify clustered areas of CRC occurrence and ordinary least squared regression was calculated to predict frequency of the disease based on a set of variables, such as diet, body mass index (BMI) and the proportion of the population ≥50 years of age. Some dissimilarities related to the geography in the province and also some neighbourhood-related similarities and dissimilarities of CRC occurrence in the city of Mashhad were found. A significant regression equation was found (F (4,137)=38.304, P<.000) with an adjusted R2 of 0.6141. The predicted CRC frequency was -58.3581 with the coefficients for average BMI=+1.594878; fibre intake=-0.610335; consumption of red meat +0.078970; and ≥50-year age group =+0.000744. All associations were statistically significant, except the consumption of red meat one. The study results illuminate the potential underlying risk factors in areas where the CRC risk is comparatively high and how the CRC risk factors may play a role in CRC geographic disparity. Further research is required to explain the patterns observed. We conclude that people should include more fibre in their daily diet and decline their BMI to decrease risk of CRC.
Il genere Bathysciola Jeannel, 1910. Revisione della sezione III (pars) (sensu Jeannel, 1924) con descrizione di sette nuovi generi (Coleoptera Leiodidae Cholevinae Leptodirini)
Authors: Giachino Pier Mauro , Vailati Dante
Published: November 2019

Nel presente contributo gli autori affrontano l’assetto tassonomico di 7 specie di Leptodirini finora considerate pertinenti al genere Bathysciola Jeannel, 1910. Sono descritti i seguenti nuovi generi: Canapiciella n. gen. specie tipo Bathysciola angeli Jeannel, 1924, Doderiola n. gen. specie tipo Bathysciola agostini Jeannel, 1924, Rondolinia n. gen. specie tipo Bathysciola adelinae Jeannel, 1934, Baudiola n. gen. specie tipo Adelops tarsalis (Kiesenwetter, 1861), Reitteriola n. gen. specie tipo Bathyscia pumilio Reitter, 1884, Tamaniniella n. gen. specie tipo Bathyscia vallarsae Halbherr, 1898 e Muelleriola n. gen. specie tipo Bathyscia sylvestris Motschulsky, 1856. Sono evidenziati i caratteri diagnostici differenziali rispetto a Bathysciola, sono discusse le relazioni filogenetiche fra i taxa considerati e le linee filetiche di Dellabeffaella Capra, 1924 e Boldoria Jeannel, 1924 (sensu Vailati, 1988, 2017) e valutate le implicazioni zoogeografiche.
Uncertainty sources in simulated ecosystem indicators of the 21st century climate change
Authors: Mäkelä Jarmo , Minunno Francesco , Aalto Tuula , Mäkelä Annikki , Markkanen Tiina , Peltoniemi Mikko
Published: November 2019

Abstract. The forest ecosystems are already responding to increased CO2 concentrations and changing environmental conditions. These ongoing developments affect how societies can utilise and benefit from the woodland areas in the future, be it e.g. climate change mitigation as carbon sinks, lumber for wood industry or preserved for nature tourism and recreational activities. We assess the effect and the relative magnitude of different uncertainty sources in ecosystem model simulations from the year 1980 to 2100 for two Finnish boreal forest sites. The models used in this study are the land ecosystem model JSBACH and the forest growth model PREBAS. The considered uncertainty sources for both models are model parameters, four prescribed climates and two RCP (Representative Concentration Pathway) scenarios. PREBAS simulations also include an additional RCP scenario and two forest management actions. We assess the effect of these sources at four different stages of the simulations on several ecosystem indicators of climate change, e.g. gross primary production (GPP), ecosystem respiration, soil moisture, recurrence of drought, length of the vegetation active period (VAP), length of the snow melting period and the stand volume. The climate model uncertainty remains roughly the same throughout the simulations and is overtaken by the RCP scenario impact halfway through the experiment. The management actions are the most dominant uncertainty factors for Hyytiälä and as important as RCP scenarios at the end of the simulations, but contribute only half as much for Sodankylä. The parameter uncertainty is the most elusive to estimate due to non-linear and adverse effects on the simulated ecosystem indicators.
A new site: ground-based FTIR XCO2, XCH4 and XCO measurements at Xianghe, China
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhou Minqiang , Langerock Bavo , Sha Mahesh Kumar , Hermans Christian , Wang Ting , Ji Denghui , Vigouroux Corinne , Kumps Nicolas , Wang Gengchen , De Mazière Martine , Wang Pucai
Published: November 2019

Abstract. The column-averaged dry-air mole fractions of CO2 (XCO2), CH4 (XCH4) and CO (XCO) have been measured with a Bruker IFS 125HR Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) at Xianghe (39.75° N, 116.96° E, North China) since June 2018. The site and the FTIR system are described in this study. The instrumental setup follows the guidelines of the Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON), and the near-infrared spectra are recorded by an InGaAs detector together with a CaF2 beam splitter. The HCl cell measurements that are recorded regularly to derive the instrument line shape (ILS) show that the instrument is correctly aligned. The Xianghe site lies in a polluted area in North China where there are currently no TCCON sites. It can fill the TCCON gap in this region and expand the global coverage of the TCCON measurements. The TCCON standard retrieval code (GGG2014) is applied to retrieve XCO2, XCH4 and XCO. The time series, seasonal cycles and day-to-day variations of XCO2, XCH4 and XCO measurements at Xianghe between June 2018 and July 2019 are shown and discussed. In addition, the FTIR measurements have been used to validate Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2) and Tropospheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI) satellite observations, as also shown in this paper. The Xianghe FTIR CO2, CH4 and CO data can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.18758/71021049 (Yang et al., 2019).
Towards geologically reasonable lithological classification from integrated geophysical inverse modelling: methodology and application case
Authors: Giraud Jérémie , Lindsay Mark , Jessell Mark , Ogarko Vitaliy
Published: November 2019

Abstract. We propose a methodology for the recovery of lithologies from geological and geophysical modelling results and apply it field data. Our technique relies on classification using self-organizing maps (SOM) paired with geoscientific consistency checks and uncertainty analysis. In the procedure we develop, the SOM is trained using prior geological information in the form of geological uncertainty, the expected spatial distribution of petrophysical properties, and constrained geophysical inversion results. We ensure local geological plausibility in the lithological model recovered from classification by enforcing basic topological rules through a process called post-regularisation. This prevents the three-dimensional lithological model from violating elementary geological principles while maintaining geophysical consistency. Interpretation of the resulting lithologies is complemented by the estimation of the uncertainty associated to the different nodes of the trained SOM. The application case we investigate uses data and models from the Yerrida Basin (Western Australia). Our results generally corroborate previous models of the region but they also suggest that the structural setting in some areas need to be updated. In particular, our results suggest the thinning of one of the greenstone belts in the area may be related to a deep structure not sampled by surface geological measurements and which was absent in previous geological models.
Flying UltraSonic – A new way to measure the wind
Authors: Hofsäß Martin , Bergmann Dominique , Denzel Jan , Cheng Po Wen
Published: November 2019

Abstract. Measurements of flow conditions at complex sites that are difficult to install a met mast are expensive and can only be carried out with great effort. Concepts and new measuring methods are needed to evaluate these sites. This article presents an experiment in which an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), more precisely a helicopter, was equipped with a standard 3-D ultrasonic anemometer. This UAV was positioned closed to a meteorological measuring mast and remained stationary at a constant altitude to measure the wind speed components. The data of the UAV were compared with the measurements of an ultrasonic sensor installed on the met mast. The measurements shows a deviation of 0.1 m/s for the horizontal speed. A comparison of the PSDs shows a very good agreement.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices towards Medication Use among Health Care Students in King Saud University
Authors: Eissa Abdullah T.
Published: November 2019

Background: Health sciences students are expected to have appropriate knowledge and attitudes toward medication use. However, literary evidence of such expertise among health sciences students of King Saud University is unknown. This study was completed to assess the knowledge about medicines and behavior of health science students towards safe use of medications. It also aims to assess the health knowledge, attitude and practices of the students. Methods: This cross-sectional study used a questionnaire consisting of 24 questions. This was administered by the researcher between October and December 2009 in the colleges of medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, applied medical science and nursing of the King Saud University. The survey consisted of three parts: Ten questions assessed the students’ knowledge on drug safety (Part 1). Four questions assessed student attitude toward medication consultations by the pharmacist (Part 2) and ten questions involved medication use practices and consultation with pharmacists (Part 3). A stratified sampling method was used to select participants. Results: Pharmacy students had better medication knowledge compared to other health sciences students especially regarding antihypertensive drugs, antibiotics, paracetamol and antacids (p<0.05). Pharmacy students showed a positive attitude regarding the trustworthiness of a pharmacist to give a consultation. Nearly all other health science students showed a negative attitude about dispensing and consultation concerning nutritional supplements by a pharmacist. All health sciences students had a similar per­ception toward medication use and practice. Conclusion: Pharmacy students had better knowledge about medication practice compared to other health sciences students. All other health sciences students lacked the appropriate attitude and practice related to the safe use of medications
Survival and Prognostic Factors in Adults Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Retrospective Analysis of 119 Cases
Authors: Gridjac Alina M , Pirlog Cristian Daniel , Bojan Anca Simona
Published: November 2019

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a malignant disease with significant identified prognostic factors. Therefore our aim was to develop an Assessment Scheme of Prognosis in AML based on prognostic factors. In some counties, such as Romania or other less-highly developed countries, this scheme would be beneficial particularly when cytogenetic testing is unavailable or time-intensive. Methods: We analyzed 119 adult patients with AML during a five year-period from a single-center in Romania. We retrospectively collected and analyzed data with Epi Info and Excel using patient medical records. Results: According to age, the group A1 (<60 years) had a 40 months survival, in contrast with the group B1 (≥60 years) with a survival of 19 months (p=0,0063). The group A2 (secondary AML) survived 15 months, whereas the group B2 (AML de novo) survived 40 months (p=0.0021). Additionally, the group A3 (mild comorbidities) achieved a 40 months survival, the group B3 (moderate comorbidities) survived 19 months, whereas the group C3 (severe comorbidities) survived 7 months (p=0,0059). According to WBC and blast number, the group A4 (high levels) had a 25 months survival, whereas the group B4 (low levels) survived 40 months (p=0,0057). Conclusion: The prognostic factors studied are useful to identify the risk level of AML disease for each patient at diagnosis. We developed an assessment scheme of prognosis with three risk groups according to age, secondary AML, comorbidity, WBC and blasts and cytogenetic examination.
Red Eye: Next Steps for Conducting Research in Knowledge, Attitude and Practice in Ophthalmology
Authors: Bonilla-Escobar Francisco J. , Ocampo-Dominguez Hugo H.
Published: November 2019

Background: Research in Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) in health sciences is relevant to health care providers and patients to identify factors to address educational interventions. Methods: A pilot study based on surveys amongst participants in a medical update conference in Cali, Colombia, was conducted to estimate participants’ knowledge on red eye in 2011. Results: The population was composed of medical students and general practitioners, with 72.7% of students being in their final year of their training. The classification of red eye was correct in 47% of respondents and we found errors in the classification of emergency, glaucoma and uveitis.Conclusions: Further research proposals in KAP are required for the recognition of this medical education indicator.
Prevalence and Side Effects of Energy Drink Consumption among Medical Students at Umm Al-Qura University, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bawazeer Naif A. , AlSobahi Najmah A.
Published: November 2019

Background: Energy drinks are freely available at markets and shops on the university campus without regulation or proper education regarding its side effects. The caffeine amount within energy drinks is high and could become an addictive substance or cause intoxication. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence of energy drink consumption and its reported side effects among medical students. Methods: A total number of 257 medical students from Umm Al-Qura University completed a questionnaire about energy drinks that was administrated electronically from September through November, 2012. Results: Out of the 257 participants, 27.2% (n=70) reported consu­ming at least one energy drink per month, with 61.5% (n=48) being males. Males consume significantly more energy drinks than females (p=0.0001). The students consumed energy drinks to get energy in general (32.8%) and while studying for exams or finishing a project (31.4%). Other reasons given include, lack of sleep (12.8%), just to be like friends (11.4%), or driving (8.5%). Heart palpitations are the most common side effect in our sample (20%), followed by insomnia (10%), headache and tremors (5.7%), nausea and vomiting (4.2%) and nervousness (2.8%). Conclusion: Energy drinks consumption is common practice among medical students and the main reason cited for consumption is the need for energy during general activities. Approximately one-third of the consumers manifested some side effect after consumption. We recommend the need to create public awareness about energy drinks. Further studies are recommended to assess the educational level of students consuming energy drinks, about the dangerous side effects.
Trauma Africa
Authors: Kong Victor Y.
Published: November 2019

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Technology Trends in Medical Education
Authors: Gouda Pishoy , Campion John
Published: November 2019

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The Clinical Eye: A Need to Improve the Teaching of Semiology in Undergraduate Medical Education
Authors: Toro-Huamanchumo Carlos Jesús , Toro-Huamanchumo Carlos Jesús , Arce-Villalobos Laura Rosa , Arce-Villalobos Laura Rosa
Published: November 2019

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The Quest for Quality Electrocardiographic Recording
Authors: García-Niebla. Javier
Published: November 2019

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Common ECG Lead Placement Errors. Part II: Precordial Misplacements
Authors: V. Rosen Allison , Koppikar Sahil , Shaw Catherine , Baranchuk Adrian
Published: November 2019

Background: Electrocardiography is a very useful diagnostic tool. However, errors in placement of ECG leads can create artifacts, mimic pathologies, and hinder proper ECG interpretation. This is the second of a two-part series discussing how to recognize and avoid these errors. Methods: 12-lead ECGs were recorded in a single male healthy subject in his mid 20s. Various precordial lead misplacements were compared to ECG recordings from correct lead placement. Results: Precordial misplacements caused classical changes in ECG patterns. Techniques of differentiating these ECG patterns from true pathological findings were described. Conclusion: As in Part I of this series, recognition and interpretation of common ECG placement errors is critical in providing optimal patient care.
Feeding Practices among Infants in a Rural Community in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Das Gupta Rajat
Published: November 2019

Background: Proper feeding practices during infancy are necessary for the growth and development of infants and to prevent malnutrition. This study was conducted to describe the feeding practice among infants in a rural area in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and June 2013. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews of 212 mothers using a pretested questionnaire. Results: Exclusive breast feeding and complementary feeding rates were 40.6% and 97.3%, respectively. One third of the mothers practiced prelactal feeding, and honey was the most common item. Maternal illness (72.7%) was the most common reason for not giving breast milk. Infant formula was used as an alternative food in majority of the cases (72.7%). Conclusion: Percentage of exclusive breast feeding was not satisfactory. Encouragement of female education is recommended to improve feeding practices and infant care
Experience of a Medical Student: Volunteering in The Emergency Department during Massive Flood in Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Xiong Chong Zhi
Published: November 2019

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Artist Featured in Volume 3 IJMS: Anto Sg
Authors: Lim Huy Ming
Published: November 2019

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Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: A Case Report
Authors: Krstevski Stefan
Published: November 2019

Background: Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is a rare gastrointestinal tumor but the most common mesenchymal tumor. It originates in the interstitial cells of Cajal, which on their own membranes have a specific antigen designated as CD117 or KIT receptor, a reliable indicator of tumor detection and therapy. Case: We reported a case of a 63-year-old male patient, who presented with symptoms of severe abdominal pain, discomfort, and secondary anemia. After a physical examination and a CT scan of the abdomen with angiography, the presence of a large tumor in the right hypochondrium was detected. Blood tests showed a high C-reactive protein and low hemoglobin. The patient had an exploratory laparotomy on his abdomen with complete removal of the tumor growth, which was then histologically analyzed. The obtained result from the histological analysis showed a high-degree of GIST. Conclusion: Early diagnosis of GISTs is of paramount importance to reduce mortality rate. This requires good background in pathobiology and knowledge of the physical manifestations of this malignant tumor. When this is combined with various imaging techniques, it becomes the gold standard method for GIST diagnosis.
A Sad Bird Learning to Fly: A Dark Real-Life Tale about the Experience of a Patient Suffering Domestic Violence
Authors: Henrique Roza Thiago , Aline Roza Sarah
Published: November 2019

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Meloxicam Decreases the Formation of Peritoneal Adhesions in an Experimental Surgical Model in Rats
Authors: Hernandez Villarroel Luis Alfredo , Fernandez Henry , Cesin Luisa
Published: November 2019

Background: Inflammatory adhesions result from an inflammatory response of the peritoneum during an intra-abdominal inflammatory process secondary to thermal or mechanical injury, infection, radiation, ischemia, dissection, abrasion or foreign body reaction. Adhesions produce consequences such as: infertility, intestinal obstruction, and pelvic-abdominal pain. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of Meloxicam, a selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor, on the formation of postoperative peritoneal adhesions in an experimental animal model. Methods: Twenty female Wistar rats were submitted to laparotomy. Postoperative peritoneal adhesions were induced by scorching the serous surface of the colon. The animals were randomly divided into two experimental groups: one group received Meloxicam intramuscularly for 7 days, and the other served as a control group. They were sacrificed and evaluated at 15 days. Results: In the animals given Meloxicam, it was observed that a decrease in number (p = 0.018), severity (p = 0.004), extension (p = 0.011), density (p = 0.023), degree of inflammation (p = 0.002), vascular proliferation (p = 0.004) and fibrosis (p = 0.029) of adhesions, compared to the control group. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the administration of Meloxicam intramuscularly significantly decreases the formation of postoperative peritoneal adhesions and, therefore, may be useful in their prevention. The effects of Meloxicam could not only be due to its anti-inflammatory action, but also to its effects on the expression of the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor.
“But what if you get made to go to war?” – My Experience of Life as a Junior Doctor and Army Reservist
Authors: Yates Chris B.
Published: November 2019

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Smoking habits among medical students: a survey at the University of Prishtina Faculty of Medicine
Authors: Fejza Albina , Maraj Fatjeta , Fejza Hajrullah
Published: November 2019

Background: Smoking is a common habit among the population in Kosovo. In the country, smoking occurs in public places, health and educational institutions despite being prohibited by law. Our objective was to describe smoking habits, knowledge and attitudes among medical students from all departments in the University of Prishtina, Faculty of Medicine.

Methods: The present study followed the Global Health Professions Student Survey (GHPSS) standardized methodology including data processing procedures. A self-administered questionnaire used was derived from the GHPSS. A total of 600 students were invited in the study while 470 returned questionnaires and participated in the study. Descriptive statistics were used to present the data. The Fisher’s exact test was used to test the significance and a p-value<0.05 was considered significant.

Results: The prevalence rate of smoking among students was 16.9% (95% CI 13.2-20). Current smokers were 79 students, 28.2 % males, and 7.7 % females. The study showed that 55.5% of students smoke less than a pack of cigarettes per day. Almost half of them (47.6%) who smoke reported to have a smoker inside the family.  This study also revealed that 74.7% of respondents smoke in the presence of non-smokers on daily bases.

Conclusion: Despite threating their own health, smokers also cause noxiousness to the society and medical students should be role models for the others by not smoking. Even though the percentage doesn’t show a high rate of smokers in Medical University of Prishtina, still we need to pay attention to bad smoking habits and try to lower even more the percentage of smokers.
The Weight of Schoolbags and Musculoskeletal Pain in Children of Selected Schools in Thimphu, Bhutan: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Dorji Thinley , Tamang Saran Tenzin , Yoezer Sonam , Wangdi Kuenzang
Published: November 2019

Background: The carriage of loads on the back in children, >10% of one’s body weight (BW), induces postural change and morbidity related to spinal pain. We studied the weight of schoolbags and the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain related to carrying schoolbags among children in Thimphu, Bhutan.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, with a multistage cluster sampling, conducted amongst grade 8 and 10 students. Data were collected using a standardized self-administered questionnaire and weights of students and schoolbags were measured. Descriptive statistics were used to present the findings. Means were compared using t test and risk factors were identified using logistic regression.

Results: There were 131 students whose schoolbags weighed >10% body weight (BW). The mean weight of schoolbags was 4.6 ±1.5 kg for grade 8 students and 4.0 ±1.5 kg for grade 10 students. Musculoskeletal pain in at least one body region was reported by 411 students. Schoolbags weighing >10% BW and carrying the bags over only one shoulder were significant risk factors for reporting musculoskeletal pain. There were 197 students whose schoolbags did not have any safety feature; students did not use them consistently even if they were present.

Conclusions: The weight of school bags that were more than the recommended ≤10% BW was a strong factor in reporting musculoskeletal pain. Parents and students may be educated on the use of schoolbags with safety features. Measures such as providing storage facilities in schools may reduce the weight of bags.
Pulmonary Embolism Secondary to Silicone Injection
Authors: Molina Carolyn Frances , Retalis Zachary Paul
Published: November 2019

Background: The use of silicone for synthetic enhancement in cosmetic procedures has been established for decades but is questionable in safety as it is associated with a range of possible complications. Incidental injection of this polymer into the venous system is not uncommon and can result in the formation of microemboli, which can travel to the lungs. This occurrence can result in a rapid decline of respiratory function and send a patient into severe acute distress.

The Case: This report details a female patient presenting with hemoptysis, presumed to have severe pneumonia until her history of cosmetic treatment was revealed and correlated. Her rapid respiratory decline is followed in inflammatory response markers and radiograph imaging.

Conclusion: A unique treatment approach with prone positioning was used and may play a key role in decreasing mortality in these patients. This report draws attention to the dangers of cosmetic enhancement and raises clinical awareness for associated complications.
Ecotoxicological Evaluation of Forest Biomass Ash on Springtails and Earthworms in Subtropical Soils of Brazil
Authors: Ogliari André Junior , Zortéa Talyta , Maccari Ana Paula , Kraft Elston , Oliveira Filho Luís Carlos Iuñes , Baretta Dilmar , Baretta Carolina Riviera Duarte Maluche
Published: November 2019

The forest biomass ash used in agriculture as fertilizer has characteristics that can negatively affect the terrestrial environment. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the application of eucalyptus forest biomass ash on springtails and earthworms in subtropical soils through ecotoxicological tests. The subtropical soils Oxisol and Entisol were used for the ecotoxicological tests of survival and reproduction of springtails (Folsomia candida) and earthworms (Eisenia andrei). The concentrations of forest biomass ash were 0, 5 10 and 20 t ha-1, based on the recommendation of the application of plant ash as fertilizer. The ecotoxicological results obtained in Oxisol demonstrate that earthworms and springtails are not affected by the presence of ash. In Entisol, the results of sensitivity of the organisms were more evident, and effects were observed from the dose of 5 t ha-1 for springtails with estimated LC50 of 15.68 t ha-1 (CI: not calculated) and EC50 of 7.36 t ha-1 (CI: 7.11-7.62 t ha-1). Earthworms were affected from 10 t ha-1, with an estimated EC50 of 11.97 t ha-1 (CI: 9.49-14.46 t ha-1). Application of forest biomass ash in the soil negatively affects springtails and earthworms, but the magnitude of the effects is mainly related to characteristics of the soil, amount applied and sensitivity of the species; negative effects of ash application are directly related to the change in soil pH.
Integração internacional, ambiente de negócios e desempenho das firmas
Authors: Fraga Gilberto Joaquim
Published: November 2019

A presente pesquisa busca analisar a relação entre integração internacional, ambiente de negócios e produtividade, a partir de dados em nível de firmas do Brasil. Para tanto, são realizadas estimativas a partir dos dados de 1802 firmas estrangeiras e domésticas. Os resultados indicam, principalmente, que firmas com participação estrangeira apresentam melhor desempenho em relação as firmas domésticas. E, um melhor ambiente de negócios afeta positivamente o desempenho das empresas, em específico, as variáveis que representam facilitação de comércio internacional, logística e oferta de trabalho qualificado.
The Scope of “in Rem” Forfeiture under Nigerian Law: Issues Arising
Authors: Waziri – Azi Fatima
Published: November 2019

Some criminals might be content to serve time in prison, if they know their assets will be available upon release, orthat their families may continue to enjoy the proceeds of crime and this is why in rem forfeiture of assets is animportant mechanism that can be used to prevent this from happening. Indeed it has, generally, been used as aneffective tool to counter organized crime, drug trafficking and certain other crimes in Italy since 1956 and in theUSA since 1970. In rem forfeiture removes the tools of the crime from circulation thereby depriving the wrongdoer,his associates or family from benefiting from the proceeds of crime. Even though for now Nigeria does not have acomprehensive framework for in rem forfeiture, it is however recognized under various Nigerian Laws. This paperdiscusses in detail the legal framework of in rem forfeiture under Nigerian laws, the gaps as well as management ofseized or forfeited assets pending final forfeiture order. The paper posits that for any meaningful progress in the fightagainst corruption and the recovery of proceeds of crime to be made, anti-corruption and law enforcement agenciesmust continue to apply in rem forfeiture mechanism. The paper however emphasizes that civil forfeiture shouldnever be seen as an alternative or substitute for the institution of criminal proceedings when there is sufficientevidence to support such proceedings and where such proceedings would otherwise be justified.
Multimedia Glosses for Enhancing EFL Students’ Vocabulary Acquisition and Retention
Authors: Ahmad Samah Zakareya , Ahmad Samah Zakareya
Published: November 2019

The present study attempted to investigate the effect of multimedia glosses on EFL students’ vocabulary acquisition and retention. Forty-five EFL students were divided into two groups: control (n=22) and experimental (n=23). A vocabulary test was administered to both groups in order to ensure that they were equivalent. Then, all participants attended 12 weekly reading sessions where participants of the experimental group practiced reading computerized texts that included multimedia glosses while participants of the control group practiced reading the same texts but without any glosses. Immediately after the treatment was over, the vocabulary test was administered to both groups in order to evaluate the differences between the two groups in vocabulary acquisition. Moreover, the same test was administered to both groups two weeks after the administration of the posttest with the purpose of evaluating the differences between the two groups in vocabulary retention. The statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between the two groups in both the immediate and the delayed administrations of the vocabulary test. Therefore, it was concluded that multimedia glosses enhanced both vocabulary acquisition and retention among EFL students.
Estimation of the Predictive Powers of Parental Support and Domestic Violence on Child Abuse Among Primary School Pupils in South-East, Nigeria
Authors: Okenyi Emmanuel Chidobe , Ngwoke Anthonia N. , Ugwu Gloria C. , Aneke Anthonia O. , Ifelunni Clara O. , Ebizie Elizabeth N. , Orji Joy Chioma , Ejiofor Juliana N. , Njoku Obiageli C. , Ezema Victor S. , Achagh Wilfred Iorfa , Ibiam Julie. U. , Ugwuanyi Christian S.
Published: November 2019

The general purpose of the study was to estimate the predictive powers of parental support and domestic violence on child abuse among pupils in South-East, Nigeria. The study was guided by two research questions and two null hypotheses. The study adopted a correlational survey research design with a population of 481,533 primary five pupils in public primary schools in South-East, Nigeria. A sample of 400 primary five pupils’ was drawn using a multi-stage sampling procedure. Three instruments were used for data collection: Parental Social Support Questionnaire (PSSQ), Parental Domestic Violence Questionnaire (PDVQ) and Child Abuse Questionnaire (CAQ). The reliability of the instrument was established by trial-testing on 30 primary five pupils that were not part of the sample. Cronbach’s Alpha Reliability method was used to determine the internal consistency of the instruments. The reliability coefficients of 0.88, 0.80 and 0.75 were obtained for parental social support questionnaire, parental domestic violence and child abuse questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using simple linear regression analysis. Specifically, the Coefficient of Determination (r2) was used to answer research questions and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) aspect of simple linear regression was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that parental social support significantly predicted child abuse negatively while domestic violence significantly predicted child abuse positively. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended among others that parents should provide enough social support to their children’s proper development and emotional stability.
Cost savings associated with video directly observed therapy for treatment of tuberculosis
Authors: Lam C. K. , Fluegge K. , Macaraig M. , Burzynski J.
Published: November 2019

OBJECTIVE: To calculate the per-session and annual direct program costs to implement directly observed therapy (DOT) for tuberculosis treatment and to conduct a cost attribution analysis under varying proportions of DOT utilization for four DOT types.DESIGN: Program
data covering the study period from September 2014 to August 2015 in New York City (NYC) were used to conduct a retrospective bottom-up micro-costing economic evaluation. For each DOT type, potential per-session and annual program savings were estimated as the cost averted by adopting a uniform
distribution of DOT alternatives. Sensitivity analyses explored aggregate cost impacts of unequal distributions.RESULTS: There was a total of 38 035 unique DOT visits, of which 12 002 (32%) were clinic-based (CDOT); 15 483 (41%) were field-based (FDOT); 7185
(19%) were live-video (LVDOT); and 3365 (9%) were recorded-video (RVDOT). The per-session direct costs (in 2016 $US) for DOT services delivered during the study period were $8.46 for CDOT; $19.83 for FDOT; $6.54 for LVDOT; and $5.35 for RVDOT. Sensitivity
analyses supported the main findings.CONCLUSIONS: Significant cost savings were estimated with increased utilization of VDOT. Assuming equivalent treatment adherence, duration, completion, and adverse events across DOT types, RVDOT was the modality that most minimized cost.
Geopolítica de las tecnologías estratégicas y no estratégicas
Authors: Blinder Daniel
Published: November 2019

Este artículo se propone estudiar la locación geográfica de la fabricación de las principales compañías tecnológicas A partir de estudios de casos se puede inferir que la producción de las tecnologías estratégicas en la era de la globalización gozan de protección, incentivos, y producción en el país en el cual están radicadas, y por el contrario, aquellas que no son estratégicas se trasladan a otro país con el objeto de optimizar la producción y las ganancias. Los casos a analizar serán las 5 principales compañías de alta tecnología para uso comercial-civil, y para uso de seguridad nacional-militar. La metodología constirá en relevar y analizar la información de las empresas, localizar sus principales plantas de producción, y realizar un análisis descriptivo y explicativo. Los hallazgos del presente trabajo son que las cinco empresas que no consideramos estratégicas producen en serie en China por cuestiones de mercado, y aquellas tecnologías estratégicas tienen sus plantas de fabricación en territorio estadounidense por cuestiones de seguridad nacional y frontera tecnológica.
Is the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Exclusively an Economic Regime?
Authors: Vogt Richard A.
Published: November 2019

Long neglected at the periphery of global politics, the Pacific region is home to more microstates than any other region on earth. As defined herein, the Pacific region comprises the sixteen states recognised by the Pacific Island Forum itself.** Inherently ocean-locked, the Pacific Island countries face numerous challenges of capacity and mobility. Though it maintains the typical diversity and variance of any region - from relatively resource-rich and mountainous Papua New Guinea (PNG), to the atoll states of Republic Marshall Islands (RMI), Tuvalu and Kiribati - it is noticeable for its reliance on foreign aid in order to maintain ongoing development. Even though lacking in major political flashpoints, the region still harbours strains of geopolitical struggle between major Asian powers. Japan, China and Taiwan all have investment and diplomatic interest in the region as the Pacific nations create a significant bloc of votes in the United Nations (UN). In addition to the proxy concerns of such nations, the Pacific Island countries have gained extra international influence in the past two decades due to their concerted lobbying in regard the negative impact of climate change in small island developing states. Their efforts have managed to bring the changing climate more consistently into the public arena, and also into the domain of security studies, thereby attempting to bridge the high and low branches of political studies.
Erfolgsfaktor Führung
Authors: Gmür Markus , Baumann-Fuchs Jonas
Published: November 2019

Sozialfirmen müssen soziale Orientierung und unternehmerische Führung vereinen. Eine Studie bei Schweizer Sozialfirmen zeigte, dass eine ausgeprägt unternehmerische und marktorientierte Führung mit einer überdurchschnittlichen Zielerreichung verbunden ist. Das gilt auch für Organisationen, die sich völlig dem «Not-for-profit»-Gedanken verpflichten fühlen und kein Interesse an finanziellen Überschüssen haben. Prof. Dr. Markus Gmür, Direktor des Verbandsmanagement Instituts der Universität Freiburg (Schweiz), und der Sozialunternehmer Jonas Baumann-Fuchs stellen die Ergebnisse vor und zeigen mögliche Konsequenzen auf.
Auf dem Weg zur Best-Practice-Branche
Authors: Batz Michael
Published: November 2019

In der Spendenwerbung dominieren seit einiger Zeit die Hinweise auf die »Wirksamkeit« der beworbenen Organisation und ihrer Hilfen. Übersehen wird dabei oft, dass Spender vor allem »Sinn« und »Resonanz« erfahren wollen, meint Dr. Frank Frieß, Leiter des Hochschulreferats Fundraising an der Technischen Universität München.
Auf dem Weg zu einem ökozentrischen Management
Authors: Strunk Andreas
Published: November 2019

Organisationen werden oft als Maschinen angesehen, die man nur richtig warten und bedienen muss. Diese Eindimensionalität hat etwas mit Planungsoptimismus zu tun, mit der in der Regel nicht hinterfragten Wirksamkeit von Management und dem diesem hinterlegten Plangungsverständnis. Prof. Dr. Andreas Strunk, seit drei Jahrzehnten im Beirat dieser Zeitschrift aktiv, weist auf mögliche neue Wege bei der sozialen Hilfe und Versorgung hin und wie diese erkundet und beschritten werden können.
Landesrecht Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Authors: Schütz Hans-Joachim , Classen Claus Dieter
Published: November 2019

Das Studienbuch stellt in übersichtlicher und systematischer Form die wichtigsten ausbildungsrelevanten Teile des Verfassungs- und Verwaltungsrechts Mecklenburg-Vorpommerns dar.
Mit Verfassungsrecht, Verwaltungsorganisationsrecht, Kommunalrecht, Polizeirecht und Baurecht werden die Kerngebiete unter Einbeziehung von Rechtsprechung und Literatur behandelt.
Introduction à la langue juridique française
Authors: Schmidt-König Christine
Published: November 2019

Das Spiel mit den Worten gehört für Juristen zum Arbeitsalltag. Dabei zeichnet es den erfolgreichen Praktiker aus, dass er den richtigen Begriff im rechten Moment zu verwenden weiß.
Dieser Band bietet für das Arbeiten mit der französischen Rechtsterminologie eine Anleitung und erste Einführung. Im Rahmen ausgewählter Rechtsbereiche erhält der Leser die Möglichkeit, sich mit dem oftmals komplexen Fachvokabular verschiedenster Themenkreise vertraut zu machen. Die behandelten Materien erfassen die Rechtsmethodik, das Verfassungsrecht, das Strafrecht, das Bürgerliche Recht, das Handels- und Gesellschaftsrecht und das Arbeitsrecht. Als Lehr- und Arbeitsbuch mit Vokabelteilen und Übungen gestaltet, bietet der Band neben der Vermittlung des Lehrstoffs eine Vielzahl ergänzender linguistischer Anmerkungen sowie Aufgabenstellungen und Lösungen.
Diese Einführung in die französische Rechtssprache eignet sich hervorragend zur Unterrichtsbegleitung oder zum Selbststudium für Studenten, Praktiker sowie juristische Übersetzer, die sich mit dem französischen Recht und seiner technischen Sprache vertraut machen wollen.
Lumières et Histoire
Authors: Nascimento Maria das Graças S.
Published: November 2019

Chez Rousseau, la fonction du législateur qui crée les états se ressemble, parfois, á celle de l'écrivain politique. Les deux tâches se développent, toutefois, dans des niveaux différents. Le premier fonde les états particuliers, tandis que le deuxième élabore les principes du droit politique, condition de possibilité de la légitimité de tous les états empiriquement donnés. Ainsi, la tâche de l'érivain politique nous indique, chez Rousseau, la place destinée à la philosophie politique, qui ne peut être confondue avec un programme concret d'action, mais comme un code de principes auxquels les hommes d'action devront se tourner, afin de bien conduire les affaires de l'état. Outre cela, il faut penser aussi au precepteur qui, quand il s'agit de l'éducation publique, aura un rôle bien défini pour promouvoir une transformation radicale de l'homme, d'un tout parfait, indépendant, dans l'état de nature, en une partie du corps colectif, pour faire de l'homme un citoyen. Ce que Rousseau nous montre c'est que le législateur, aussi bien que l'écrivain politique, devront agir sur l'opinion publique, voir, sur les moeurs, sans violence, car l'art d'agir sur l'opinion publique ne tient point à la violence.
The Idea of Order and Harmony in Philosophical-Aesthetical Reflections
Authors: Fobelová Daniela , Fobel Pavel
Published: November 2019

Traditional thinking has understood the world in its totality as including both chaos and harmony. Lovelock's hypothesis gives us a new resolution to this problem by expanding or even relocating creativity from the human intellect to the world. Postmodernism is the return to the mythological-aesthetic reflexion of the world concerning the idea of order and harmony.
The Formality of Reality
Authors: Fowler Thomas B.
Published: November 2019

Hume's analyses of human apprehension and of causality were the most penetrating up to his time and continue to have great influence. Contemporary Spanish philosopher Xavier Zubiri (1893-1983) has examined both and identified three underlying errors: (1) the failure to recognize that there are three stages of human intellection, and especially that the first, primordial apprehension, has quite unique characteristics; (2) the attempt to place an excessive burden on the content of impressions while ignoring what Zubiri terms their 'formality of reality'; and (3) the failure to recognize that functionality, not causality, is the basis for most of our knowledge. Causal chains in general cannot be adequately known, and therefore are not and cannot be the basis of our knowledge of the external world. Only in the area of persons and morality does causality play a critical role.
Impact of Referral Center Pathology Review on Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Appendiceal Neoplasms
Authors: Jedrzkiewicz Jolanta , Tateishi Yoko , Kirsch Richard , Conner James , Bischof Danielle , McCart Andrea , Riddell Robert , Pollett Aaron , Taylor Emily L. , Govindarajan Anand
Published: November 2019

Context.—

Data regarding the clinical impact of subspecialist pathology review of appendiceal neoplasms are limited.

Objective.—

To determine whether pathology review by gastrointestinal pathologists at a tertiary-care referral center resulted in significant changes in the diagnosis and clinical management of appendiceal neoplastic lesions.

Design.—

We conducted a retrospective review of all patients with an initial diagnosis of appendiceal neoplasm referred to a tertiary-care referral center in Ontario, Canada, from 2010–2016. The discordance rate between original and review pathology reports, the nature of discordances, and the impact of any discordance on patient management were recorded.

Results.—

A total of 145 patients with appendiceal lesions were identified (low-grade mucinous appendiceal neoplasm [n = 79], invasive mucinous adenocarcinoma [n = 12], “colorectal type” adenocarcinoma [n = 12], goblet cell carcinoid and adenocarcinomas ex goblet cell carcinoid [n = 24], and other lesions/neoplasms [n = 20]). One or more changes in diagnoses were found in 36 of 145 cases (24.8%), with changes within the same category of interpretation (n = 10), stage (n = 7), grade (n = 6), and categoric interpretation (n = 5) being the most common. In 10 of 36 patients (28%), the diagnostic change led to a significant change in management, including recommendation for additional surveillance, systemic chemotherapy, additional surgery, or discontinuation of surveillance.

Conclusions.—

Subspecialist pathology review of appendiceal neoplastic lesions led to a change in diagnosis in 36 of 145 cases (24.8%), of which nearly 30% (10 of 36 cases) led to a change in clinical management. The overall rate of clinically significant discordances was 7% (10 of 145). Our findings suggest that subspecialist pathology review of appendiceal neoplasms referred to specialized centers is justified.