bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hormonal evaluation of infertile women in Border Guard Hospital, Peelkhana, Dhaka
Authors: Shapla Nahid Reaz , Chowdhury Liza , Khan Rokeya , Nabi Syed Nurun , Sultana Sharmeen , Parveen Zinia
Published: April 2015

Introduction: Infertility is very often observed in women. It is the failure to conceive after one year of regular unprotected coitus. Data from population based studies suggest that 10-15% couples in the western world experience infertility. Infertility can be caused by a number of factors. Hormonal problems are amongst the important factors contributing to female infertility. Aim: The aim of this study was to ascertain the FSH(Follicle Stimulating Hormone), LH(Leuteinizing Hormone), Prolactin, Testosterone, FT3(Free Triiodothyronine), FT4(Free Thyroxine), TSH(Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) and Oestradiol levels in infertile women. Methods: This observational study was carried out over a period of 1 year from June 2012 to May 2013 on 110 infertile women who reported to Gynae OPD(Out-Patient Department) in Border Guard Hospital, Dhaka. Blood samples of the subjects were taken on 2nd day of menstruation of regular menstrual cycle and on first visit of women having irregular menstrual cycle. Different hormonal studies were done by IMMULITE immunoassay. Semen analyses of their husbands were found to be normal. The results obtained were compared with the reference levels. Results: Among 110 infertile women, 86.37% cases were of primary infertility and 13.63% were 34 JAFMC Bangladesh. Vol 10, No 1 (June) 2014 of secondary infertility. In this study on infertile women majority (34.54%) of the cases of infertility were having PCODs(Polycystic Ovary Disease), others were of hypothyroidism (23.6%) and hyperprolactinaemia was found in 19.09% cases. Both PCODs and hypothyroidism were found in 6.36% cases and no abnormality was detected in 16.36% cases. The Mean ± SD of different hormonal levels were: FSH 2.58±1.63, LH 10.20±4.36, prolactin 61.17±1158 and testosterone 140±34.22 respectively. The mean ± SD of measured hormone levels were compared with reference levels of different hormones by using student t test. In case of FSH, LH, TSH, prolactin, testosterone, FT4 and Oestradiol the difference were statistically significant (P<0.01) but for FT3 was not statistically significant. Conclusion: In this study, PCOD was found to be the most common cause of infertility and other causes found were hyperprolactinaemia and hypothyroidism. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jafmc.v10i1.22902 Journal of Armed Forces Medical College Bangladesh Vol.10(1) 2014
Outcome of treatment with concurrent whole brain radiotherapy and Temozolomide in brain metastasis
Authors: Ali Md Yousuf , Islam Md Aminul , Rokonuzzaman SM , Rahman Md Habibur , Chowdhuyry Rukun Uddin , Hasan Arif Al
Published: April 2015

Introduction: Brain metastasis represents the most common form of intracranial tumor and causes significant morbidity and mortality in cancer patients. This prospective study was carried out at Radiation Oncology Department, Combined Military Hospital Dhaka from January 2010 to December 2012. The concurrent chemotherapy and radiotherapy have shown better outcome and improved the quality of life. Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of concurrent treatment with whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) and temozolomide (TMZ) in patients with brain metastasis. Methods: Sixty patients with multiple brain metastases were enrolled and received WBRT with 30 Gray (Gy) in ten fractions with concurrent TMZ (75mg/m2/day) for ten days. Results: Remarkable symptomatic relief occurred in eighteen (72%) patients of headache, nine (60%) patients of altered mental status, thirteen (76.5%) of vomiting, ten (71.4%) of seizure, eleven (68.7%) of altered sensation, seven (58.3%) of focal weakness and two (40%) of visual change. In relation to objective response four (6.7%) patients had complete response, twenty three (38.3%) patients had partial response while twenty one (35%) had stable disease and twelve (20%) had progressive disease. The overall response rate was 45%. The most frequent toxicities included anorexia in twenty one (35%), nausea in eighteen (30%), vomiting in ten (16.6%), lethargy in seventeen (28%), anemia in eight (13.3%) and neutropenia in thirteen (21.6%) cases. 64 JAFMC Bangladesh. Vol 10, No 1 (June) 2014 Conclusion: The concurrent treatment with whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) and temozolomide (TMZ) in patients with brain metastasis is well tolerated with an encouraging response. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jafmc.v10i1.22927 Journal of Armed Forces Medical College Bangladesh Vol.10(1) 2014
Determinants of Neonatal seizure among newborns attending a tertiary care Hospital
Authors: Ara Rowshan , Uddin Md Nasir
Published: April 2015

Introduction: Neonatal seizure is an important cause of childhood mortality and morbidity. The prevalence of neonatal seizure is 2-3 /1000 live births in term and 10-15 /1000 preterm deliveries in our country. Proper neonatal care is crucial. Different study results representing the risk factors for neonatal seizure are directly and indirectly related. Objectives: The study was carried out to determine the factors influencing neonatal seizure among the patients attending a tertiary care hospital. Methods: A cross- sectional study was carried out to find out the factors of neonatal seizure where face to face interview was taken to 50 purposively selected respondents who were attending a tertiary care hospital during spring season. All the data were entered into a personal computer and thoroughly checked for any possible errors and then processed and analyzed by statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 17 and MS office 2007. Results: Among the total respondents mostly were of <25 years (Mean±Sd, 23.16 ±3.919) of age. 36% had primary level education and 32% were illiterate. The mean monthly family income was 11392.0 ±11551.81 BDT. Respondents by pregnancy related complications were mostly of Pre-Eclamptic Toxemias (PET) in 22% cases and anaemia in 24% cases. Gestational age of the respondents was mainly >37weeks.The study also reported that antenatal care by doctors was taken in 64% cases. Among the delivery related factors, most of the deliveries took place at home (64%). Among the neonatal factors weight <2kg was found in 34% cases and 2.1-2.4 kg in 56% cases respectively. 85 JAFMC Bangladesh. Vol 10, No 1 (June) 2014 Study also reported that the causes of seizures were Peri-natal Asphyxia (PNA) (12%) and LBW (11%). Respondents by onset of seizure were mostly within 24 hours (44%), common types of seizure were subtle (50%) and duration of seizures was found to be less than 5 min in (64%) cases. The study also revealed the association between the causes and types of seizure; the result showed that 60% of subtle type of seizure was associated with Infant of Diabetic Mother (IDM) followed by focal type (40%). PNA was associated with 58% of subtle type of seizure. Our result was found statistically insignificant (p>0.05). Association of onset of seizure and birth weight of the neonates also revealed insignificant (p>0.05) result. This can be explained by small sample size and short duration of study. On the other hand other studies reported significant (p<0.05) results as they had larger sample size and longer study period. Conclusion: Maternal factors, neonatal factors and delivery related factors are related to neonatal seizure. Further studies involving larger sample size is recommended. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jafmc.v10i1.22931 Journal of Armed Forces Medical College Bangladesh Vol.10(1) 2014
Premarital health screening  a review and update
Authors: Rahman Md Mizanur , Naznin Lubna , Giti Susane , Islam Md Saiful , Khatun Nasima
Published: April 2015

Introduction: In Bangladesh among inherited genetic diseases, thalassaemias and haemoglobinopathies are common and cause significant morbidity and mortality and impose a heavy financial burden on our society. Through premarital testing it is possible to reduce the number of children affected with genetic or other blood transmitted diseases. Aim: This review aims to motivate the general populations and reanimate the interest of stakeholders involved in the management of inherited genetic disorders and put forward the recommendations and proposal for implementing premarital screening programmes in Bangladesh. Materials & Methods: Relevant literatures were retrieved from different journals and web pages to highlight the definition, advantages and importance of premarital screening, types of investigation in the screening programmes and system of implementing this programme. Discussion: Review of different literature indicates that premarital screening programme is a complex social, religious and moral issue generating legal concerns regarding the infringement of fundamental liberty, the right to marry and the implications of involuntary withdrawal of blood. In regions where inherited genetic disorders are high, knowledge and outcome of the diseases and uptake of voluntary counseling is low. This is probably because these disorders are greater in developing and under developed countries where literacy and level of understanding are low. Culture and individual attitudes also have a role in the success of testing. 103 JAFMC Bangladesh. Vol 10, No 1 (June) 2014 In Asia, voluntary premarital screening programmes began for inherited and sexually transmitted diseases in countries like China, Taiwan, Malaysia, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Singapore and Thailand but no data is available regarding premarital screening programmes in Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Bangladesh. Conclusion: Paucity of resources and trained health professionals in the area of medical genetics are major impediments in implementing premarital screening programmes in Bangladesh. Besides, religious beliefs, cultural norms, social customs as well as illiteracy may be the other barriers in performing the premarital screening programmes in Bangladesh. But it is high time to undertake motivational programmes and pilot projects to implement the premarital screening programmes in order to reduce the inherited genetic disorders, especially thalassaemias and haemoglobinopathies. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jafmc.v10i1.22934 Journal of Armed Forces Medical College Bangladesh Vol.10(1) 2014
Atypical presentation of disseminated tuberculosis  an autopsy case report
Authors: Rahman Md Tahminur , Khan Jesmine , Islam Mohammed Nasimul , Ahmad Mushtaq , Al Azad Md Abdus Samad
Published: April 2015

Reporting a case of natural death where blind anti-tubercular treatment started late due to atypical presentation and conflicting laboratory reports.The deceased was a 25 year old male Indonesian rubber plantation worker initially diagnosed as Crytococcal infection and had been treated on antifungal regime. Histological examination of various organs after post mortem examinations revealed disseminated tuberculosis. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jafmc.v10i1.22936 Journal of Armed Forces Medical College Bangladesh Vol.10(1) 2014
The Roles of MicroRNAs in Breast Cancer
Authors: Takahashi Ryou-u , Miyazaki Hiroaki , Ochiya Takahiro
Published: April 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) constitute a large family of small, approximately 20–22 nucleotide, non-coding RNAs that regulate the expression of target genes, mainly at the post-transcriptional level. Accumulating lines of evidence have indicated that miRNAs play important roles in the maintenance of biological homeostasis and that aberrant expression levels of miRNAs are associated with the onset of many diseases, including cancer. In various cancers, miRNAs play important roles in tumor initiation, drug resistance and metastasis. Recent studies reported that miRNAs could also be secreted via small endosome-derived vesicles called exosomes, which are derived from multiple cell types, including dendritic cells, lymphocytes, and tumor cells. Exosomal miRNAs play an important role in cell-to-cell communication and have been investigated as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers. In this review, we summarize the major findings related to the functions of miRNAs in breast cancer, which is the most frequent cancer in women, and discuss the potential clinical uses of miRNAs, including their roles as therapeutic targets and diagnostic markers.
Effects of Different Levels of Echinostoma caproni Miracidial Dose on Glucose and Maltose Composition of Biomphalaria glabrata Snails as Determined by High Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography-Densitometry
Authors: DeGrandchamp Dolcie , Hartlaub Sage , Fried Bernard , Sherma Joseph
Published: April 2015

The effects of 5, 25, and 40 Echinostoma caproni miracidia on the sugar content of young adult and mature adult Biomphalaria glabrata were studied using high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC)-densitometry. Analysis was done on the snail’s digestive gland gonad complex (DGG) at two and four weeks postmiracidial exposure. The sugars were extracted from the DGG using 70% ethanol and analyzed on silica gel HPTLC plates with a preadsorbent zone using 1-butanol-glacial acetic acid-diethyl ether-deionized water (27:18:5:3) mobile phase. The separated bands were then detected using alpha-naphthol-sulfuric reagent and quantified by densitometry at 515 nm. Significant differences were found in the maltose content between two and four weeks post exposure for both age groups. Additionally, significantly lower maltose and glucose levels were observed in the high exposure groups of both ages.
An Ecosystem-Service Approach to Evaluate the Role of Non-Native Species in Urbanized Wetlands
Authors: Yam Rita , Huang Ko-Pu , Hsieh Hwey-Lian , Lin Hsing-Juh , Huang Shou-Chung
Published: April 2015

Natural wetlands have been increasingly transformed into urbanized ecosystems commonly colonized by stress-tolerant non-native species. Although non-native species present numerous threats to natural ecosystems, some could provide important benefits to urbanized ecosystems. This study investigated the extent of colonization by non-native fish and bird species of three urbanized wetlands in subtropical Taiwan. Using literature data the role of each non-native species in the urbanized wetland was evaluated by their effect (benefits/damages) on ecosystem services (ES) based on their ecological traits. Our sites were seriously colonized by non-native fishes (39%–100%), but <3% by non-native birds. Although most non-native species could damage ES regulation (disease control and wastewater purification), some could be beneficial to the urbanized wetland ES. Our results indicated the importance of non-native fishes in supporting ES by serving as food source to fish-eating waterbirds (native, and migratory species) due to their high abundance, particularly for Oreochromis spp. However, all non-native birds are regarded as “harmful” species causing important ecosystem disservices, and thus eradication of these bird-invaders from urban wetlands would be needed. This simple framework for role evaluation of non-native species represents a holistic and transferable approach to facilitate decision making on management priority of non-native species in urbanized wetlands.
Pathogenesis of Renal Disease in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus—The Role of Autoantibodies and Lymphocytes Subset Abnormalities
Authors: Yap Desmond , Lai Kar
Published: April 2015

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a common and severe organ manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and is associated with significant patient morbidity and mortality. Autoantibodies and aberrations in lymphocyte subsets have putative roles in the pathogenesis of SLE and LN, and might reflect disease activity and are amenable to immunosuppressive treatments. Anti-DNA is one of the well-studied autoantibodies, which correlates with disease activity and has direct nephritogenic effects on resident renal cells and various glomerular components. Other important autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of LN include anti-C1q, anti-α-actinin and anti-nucleosome antibodies. Changes in naive and memory B cells and plasma cells have been observed in SLE and LN patients. These B cell subsets exert diverse effects during pathogenesis of LN such as production of autoantibodies, secretion of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines and presentation of auto-antigens to effector cells. Aberration of T lymphocytes, especially the T-helper subsets, is also highly pertinent in the development of LN. In this context, important T helper subsets include Th1, Th2, Th9, Th17, TReg and follicular T-helper cells. The growing knowledge on these autoantibodies and lymphocyte subset abnormalities will enhance our understanding of SLE and LN, and hence help devise better strategies for disease monitoring and treatment.
Psoralea glandulosa as a Potential Source of Anticancer Agents for Melanoma Treatment
Authors: Madrid Alejandro , Cardile Venera , González César , Montenegro Ivan , Villena Joan , Caggia Silvia , Graziano Adriana , Russo Alessandra
Published: April 2015

With the aim of identifying novel agents with antigrowth and pro-apoptotic activity on melanoma cancer, the present study was undertaken to investigate the biological activity of the resinous exudate of aerial parts from Psoralea glandulosa, and its active components (bakuchiol (1), 3-hydroxy-bakuchiol (2) and 12-hydroxy-iso-bakuchiol (3)) against melanoma cells (A2058). In addition, the effect in cancer cells of bakuchiol acetate (4), a semi-synthetic derivative of bakuchiol, was examined. The results obtained show that the resinous exudate inhibited the growth of cancer cells with IC50 value of 10.5 μg/mL after 48 h of treatment, while, for pure compounds, the most active was the semi-synthetic compound 4. Our data also demonstrate that resin is able to induce apoptotic cell death, which could be related to an overall action of the meroterpenes present. In addition, our data seem to indicate that the apoptosis correlated to the tested products appears, at least in part, to be associated with an increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In summary, our study provides the first evidence that P. glandulosa may be considered a source of useful molecules in the development of analogues with more potent efficacy against melanoma cells.
Analytical Solution of Generalized Space-Time Fractional Cable Equation
Authors: Saxena Ram , Tomovski Zivorad , Sandev Trifce
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we consider generalized space-time fractional cable equation in presence of external source. By using the Fourier-Laplace transform we obtain the Green function in terms of infinite series in H-functions. The fractional moments of the fundamental solution are derived and their asymptotic behavior in the short and long time limit is analyzed. Some previously obtained results are compared with those presented in this paper. By using the Bernstein characterization theorem we find the conditions under which the even moments are non-negative.
C1-Pathways in Methyloversatilis universalis FAM5: Genome Wide Gene Expression and Mutagenesis Studies
Authors: Good Nathan , Lamb Andrew , Beck David , Martinez-Gomez N. , Kalyuzhnaya Marina
Published: April 2015

Methyloversatilis universalis FAM5 utilizes single carbon compounds such as methanol or methylamine as a sole source of carbon and energy. Expression profiling reveals distinct sets of genes altered during growth on methylamine vs methanol. As expected, all genes for the N-methylglutamate pathway were induced during growth on methylamine. Among other functions responding to the aminated source of C1-carbon, are a heme-containing amine dehydrogenase (Qhp), a distant homologue of formaldehyde activating enzyme (Fae3), molybdenum-containing formate dehydrogenase, ferredoxin reductase, a set of homologues to urea/ammonium transporters and amino-acid permeases. Mutants lacking one of the functional subunits of the amine dehydrogenase (ΔqhpA) or Δfae3 showed no growth defect on C1-compounds. M. universalis FAM5 strains with a lesion in the H4-folate pathway were not able to use any C1-compound, methanol or methylamine. Genes essential for C1-assimilation (the serine cycle and glyoxylate shunt) and H4MTP-pathway for formaldehyde oxidation showed similar levels of expression on both C1-carbon sources. M. universalis FAM5 possesses three homologs of the formaldehyde activating enzyme, a key enzyme of the H4MTP-pathway. Strains lacking the canonical Fae (fae1) lost the ability to grow on both C1-compounds. However, upon incubation on methylamine the fae1-mutant produced revertants (Δfae1R), which regained the ability to grow on methylamine. Double and triple mutants (Δfae1RΔfae3, or Δfae1RΔfae2 or Δfae1RΔfae2Δfae3) constructed in the revertant strain background showed growth similar to the Δfae1R phenotype. The metabolic pathways for utilization of methanol and methylamine in Methyloversatilis universalis FAM5 are reconstructed based on these gene expression and phenotypic data.
Model Organisms in the Fight against Muscular Dystrophy: Lessons from Drosophila and Zebrafish
Authors: Plantié Emilie , Migocka-Patrzałek Marta , Daczewska Małgorzata , Jagla Krzysztof
Published: April 2015

Muscular dystrophies (MD) are a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders that cause muscle weakness, abnormal contractions and muscle wasting, often leading to premature death. More than 30 types of MD have been described so far; those most thoroughly studied are Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) and congenital MDs. Structurally, physiologically and biochemically, MDs affect different types of muscles and cause individual symptoms such that genetic and molecular pathways underlying their pathogenesis thus remain poorly understood. To improve our knowledge of how MD-caused muscle defects arise and to find efficacious therapeutic treatments, different animal models have been generated and applied. Among these, simple non-mammalian Drosophila and zebrafish models have proved most useful. This review discusses how zebrafish and Drosophila MD have helped to identify genetic determinants of MDs and design innovative therapeutic strategies with a special focus on DMD, DM1 and congenital MDs.
Determining the Composition of Lignins in Different Tissues of Silver Birch
Authors: Fagerstedt Kurt , Saranpää Pekka , Tapanila Tarja , Immanen Juha , Serra Juan , Nieminen Kaisa
Published: April 2015

Quantitative and qualitative lignin analyses were carried out on material from the trunks of silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) trees. Two types of material were analyzed. First, whole birch trunk pieces were cryosectioned into cork cambium, non-conductive phloem, the cambial zone (conductive phloem, cambium and differentiating xylem), lignified xylem and the previous year’s xylem; material that would show differences in lignin amount and quality. Second, clonal material from one natural birch population was analyzed to show variations between individuals and between the lignin analysis methods. The different tissues showed marked differences in lignin amount and the syringyl:guaiacyl (S/G) ratio. In the non-conductive phloem tissue containing sclereids, the S/G ratio was very low, and typical for phloem fibers and in the newly-formed xylem, as well as in the previous year’s xylem, the ratio lay between five and seven, typical for broadleaf tree xylem. Clonal material consisting of 88 stems was used to calculate the S/G ratios from the thioacidolysis and CuO methods, which correlated positively with an R2 value of 0.43. Comparisons of the methods indicate clearly that the CuO method is a good alternative to study the monomeric composition and S/G ratio of wood lignins.
Exploring the Full Potential of Reversible Deactivation Radical Polymerization Using Pareto-Optimal Fronts
Authors: Fierens Stijn , D'hooge Dagmar , Van Steenberge Paul , Reyniers Marie-Françoise , Marin Guy
Published: April 2015

The use of Pareto-optimal fronts to evaluate the full potential of reversible deactivation radical polymerization (RDRP) using multi-objective optimization (MOO) is illustrated for the first time. Pareto-optimal fronts are identified for activator regenerated electron transfer atom transfer radical polymerization (ARGET ATRP) of butyl methacrylate and nitroxide mediated polymerization (NMP) of styrene. All kinetic and diffusion parameters are literature based and a variety of optimization paths, such as temperature and fed-batch addition programs, are considered. It is shown that improvements in the control over the RDRP characteristics are possible beyond the capabilities of batch or isothermal RDRP conditions. Via these MOO-predicted non-classical polymerization procedures, a significant increase of the degree of microstructural control can be obtained with a limited penalty on the polymerization time; specifically, if a simultaneous variation of various polymerization conditions is considered. The improvements are explained based on the relative importance of the key reaction rates as a function of conversion.
Can Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) and Forest Estimates Derived from Satellite Images Be Used to Predict Abundance and Species Richness of Birds and Beetles in Boreal Forest?
Authors: Lindberg Eva , Roberge Jean-Michel , Johansson Therese , Hjältén Joakim
Published: April 2015

In managed landscapes, conservation planning requires effective methods to identify high-biodiversity areas. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of airborne laser scanning (ALS) and forest estimates derived from satellite images extracted at two spatial scales for predicting the stand-scale abundance and species richness of birds and beetles in a managed boreal forest landscape. Multiple regression models based on forest data from a 50-m radius (i.e., corresponding to a homogenous forest stand) had better explanatory power than those based on a 200-m radius (i.e., including also parts of adjacent stands). Bird abundance and species richness were best explained by the ALS variables “maximum vegetation height” and “vegetation cover between 0.5 and 3 m” (both positive). Flying beetle abundance and species richness, as well as epigaeic (i.e., ground-living) beetle richness were best explained by a model including the ALS variable “maximum vegetation height” (positive) and the satellite-derived variable “proportion of pine” (negative). Epigaeic beetle abundance was best explained by “maximum vegetation height” at 50 m (positive) and “stem volume” at 200 m (positive). Our results show that forest estimates derived from satellite images and ALS data provide complementary information for explaining forest biodiversity patterns. We conclude that these types of remote sensing data may provide an efficient tool for conservation planning in managed boreal landscapes.
Using Optical Satellite Data and Airborne Lidar Data for a Nationwide Sampling Survey
Authors: Lindgren Nils , Christensen Pernilla , Nilsson Björn , Åkerholm Marianne , Allard Anna , Reese Heather , Olsson Håkan
Published: April 2015

A workflow for combining airborne lidar, optical satellite data and National Forest Inventory (NFI) plots for cost efficient operational mapping of a nationwide sample of 5 × 5 km squares in the National Inventory of Landscapes in Sweden (NILS) landscape inventory in Sweden is presented. Since the areas where both satellite data and lidar data have a common data quality are limited, and impose a constraint on the number of available NFI plots, it is not feasible to perform classifications in a single step. Instead a stratified approach where canopy cover and canopy height are first predicted from lidar data trained with NFI plots is proposed. From the lidar predictions a forest stratum is defined as grid cells with more than 3 m mean tree height and more than 10% vertical canopy cover, the remaining grid cells are defined as open land. Both forest and open land are then classified into broad vegetation classes using optical satellite data. The classification of open land is trained with aerial photo interpretation and the classification of the forest stratum is trained with a new set of NFI plots. The result is a rational procedure for nationwide sample based vegetation characterization.
A New Method of Using Sensor Arrays for Gas Leakage Location Based on Correlation of the Time-Space Domain of Continuous Ultrasound
Authors: Bian Xu , Zhang Yu , Li Yibo , Gong Xiaoyue , Jin Shijiu
Published: April 2015

This paper proposes a time-space domain correlation-based method for gas leakage detection and location. It acquires the propagated signal on the skin of the plate by using a piezoelectric acoustic emission (AE) sensor array. The signal generated from the gas leakage hole (which diameter is less than 2 mm) is time continuous. By collecting and analyzing signals from different sensors’ positions in the array, the correlation among those signals in the time-space domain can be achieved. Then, the directional relationship between the sensor array and the leakage source can be calculated. The method successfully solves the real-time orientation problem of continuous ultrasonic signals generated from leakage sources (the orientation time is about 15 s once), and acquires high accuracy location information of leakage sources by the combination of multiple sets of orientation results. According to the experimental results, the mean value of the location absolute error is 5.83 mm on a one square meter plate, and the maximum location error is generally within a ±10 mm interval. Meanwhile, the error variance is less than 20.17.
Les tours de flanquements quadrangulaires du château de Châtillon-sur-Indre : archaïsme ou précocité ?
Authors: Langeuin Pascal
Published: April 2015

L’enceinte du château de Châtillon-sur-Indre conserve, rescapées des destructions du XIXe siècle, deux tours quadrangulaires, planchéiées et non talutées. Celles-ci, défendues par des archères à ébrasement simple, couvertes de linteaux et dénuées de plongée, ne bénéficient d’aucune mention historique ni de l’existence d’une comparaison datée avec certitude. Le caractère atypique des tours de Châtillon-sur-Indre pose donc le problème épineux de leur datation. Sont-elles le fruit précoce, avant 1204, de la politique de fortification développée par Henri II Plantagenêt sur l’ensemble de ses territoires dès les premières années de son règne ou bien pourraient-elles être issues de l’emploi plus tardif d’une formule archaïque qui, en l’occurrence, les placerait en total décalage avec les concepts de l’architecture militaire de leur temps ? Les rapprochements typologiques, avec d’autres édifices inscrits dans un même contexte historique, incitent à valider la première thèse.
Le palais de Pierre de la Broce à Châtillon-sur-Indre
Authors: Foucher Jean-Pascal
Published: April 2015

Entre 1274 et 1278, Pierre de la Broce, chambellan et favori de Philippe III le Hardi, fait édifier dans l’enceinte du château de Châtillon un programme palatial à la mesure de son ambition. Le logis principal, dont la façade sur cour et celle tournée vers la vallée sont abondamment ajourées, est flanqué d’une imposante terrasse d’agrément construite en débordement sur l’escarpe. Après la pendaison de Pierre de la Broce en 1278, Philippe III et Philippe IV achèvent la construction de la chapelle. La subdivision du niveau unique originel d’une partie des appartements par Jeanne Raguenel à la fin du XVe siècle donne lieu à la construction d’un escalier rampe sur rampe qui serait le plus ancien exemple conservé en France. Le palais, source d’inspiration directe du logis ducal de Loches, apparaît comme une résidence castrale novatrice dans son rapport au jardin et au paysage. Par sa datation précise et son remarquable état de conservation, l’édifice est un jalon essentiel de l’architecture civile du XIIIe siècle.
La politique européenne des transports procède-t-elle d’une logique territoriale ?
Authors: Beyer Antoine
Published: April 2015

Issus de l’élargissement des compétences communautaires, les réseaux-transeuropéens de transport (RTE-T) affirment une dimension spatiale de la construction européenne. Cette évolution correspond-elle pour autant à une territorialisation des institutions communautaires, définie par l’accroissement d’un pouvoir politique sur un espace spécifique ? L’analyse montre que s’il y a bien l’amorce d’une territorialisation, cette dernière s’opère sans transfert de souveraineté. Le levier d’action de l’UE repose de fait sur sa capacité d’incitation politique et financière vis-à-vis des États-membres qui gardent toute leur capacité d’initiative. On serait alors tenté de parler avec Andreas Faludi (2013) de « soft territorialisation » pour les RTE-T dans la mesure où l’action communautaire passe par une légitimité de concertation et non par le renforcement d’un pouvoir supranational.
Aménagement et gouvernabilité. Les liens entre rhétorique et pratiques. Une dernière chance pour le projet européen ?
Authors: Farinós Dasí Joaquín , Nazabal Marie Carmen , Nazabal Peio Ponce
Published: April 2015

Cet article milite pour une mise en œuvre plus démocratique de l’aménagement de l’espace afin de trouver des alternatives et de nouvelles cohérences plutôt que de s’en remettre à la dérégulation et à un libéralisme aveugle. Au-delà d’une simple modernisation du domaine de l’aménagement, il s’agit de réfléchir à de nouvelles formes intelligentes de développement, à la fois équitables et soutenables, afin de prendre en compte les droits sociaux et individuels en plaçant les citoyens et l’intérêt général au cœur de la réflexion. De ce point de vue, le New Strategic Planning qui prend sa source dans la philosophie traditionnelle de l’aménagement du territoire, doit être articulé à de nouveaux instruments et processus de bonne gouvernance. À ce titre, les idées de responsabilité, d’évaluation et, plus précisément, d’évaluation d’impact territorial, font parties des options à retenir afin d’assurer une gouvernabilité territoriale et un développement de qualité à différents niveaux et à géométries variables. Une telle approche aidera à maintenir le projet européen vivant.
Parlez-vous l’européen ? Enquête sur quelques notions clés de la politique régionale de l’UE auprès d’acteurs français de l’aménagement
Authors: Santamaria Frédéric , Élissalde Bernard
Published: April 2015

La politique régionale de l’Union européenne s’appuie sur un certain nombre de notions clés censées influencer les acteurs de l’aménagement et du développement des territoires aux différentes échelles de l’Union. Cet article met en perspective quelques notions majeures définies au niveau européen avec leur compréhension par des acteurs de l’aménagement en France, interrogés dans le cadre d’une enquête par entretien. Les auteurs montrent que, loin de s’inscrire exclusivement dans une logique de diffusion descendante, les notions choisies, généralement très utilisées et souvent fortement débattues, s’inscrivent dans un continuum intellectuel au sein duquel les acteurs interrogés ne distinguent guère réflexion conceptuelle et mise en œuvre pratique.
The evolving context for territorial development policy and governance in Europe – from shifting paradigms to new policy approaches
Authors: O’Brien Philip , Sykes Olivier , Shaw David
Published: April 2015

Au cours des dernières décennies, la pensée et les objectifs de la politique régionale ont progressivement été influencés par de nouvelles idées qui cherchent à expliquer le succès relatif des territoires à se développer. Cette tendance a été accompagnée dans plusieurs pays d’une évolution des politiques régionales des approches redistributives et « descendantes », vers des approches plus « ascendantes » qui mettent l’accent plus sur un développement dit endogène. De même la politique de cohésion de l’UE a de plus en plus cherché à favoriser le développement des territoires en les encourageant à s’appuyer sur leurs caractéristiques et atouts intrinsèques. Fondé sur ce contexte, cet article considère l’évolution des conceptions et des modèles de la politique régionale prêtant une attention particulière à l’émergence d’approches territoriales (ou en anglais place-based); à leur manifestation dans les réformes de la politique de cohésion de l’UE ; et, aux processus de « rééchelonnement» et de réforme des structures de gouvernance territoriales et de la politique de développement territorial en Angleterre.
L’expérience internationale étudiante : un atout pour une carrière sur la scène mondiale ?
Authors: Robert Jocelyne , Carrabs Vincenzo
Published: April 2015

Le but de cette étude est de comprendre l’incidence de l’expérience internationale acquise pendant les études sur le type de carrière ultérieure. Il s’agit de souligner l’importance pour l’entreprise de comprendre cette incidence. Quel est le profil de carrière de ceux qui ont vécu une expérience internationale ? Quelle peut être l’utilité de cette expérience pour la carrière en entreprise ? Nous tenterons ainsi d’attirer l’attention des recruteurs, des départements de ressources humaines, mais aussi des gestionnaires de programmes d’institutions d’enseignement et des cadres eux-mêmes sur l’importance de cette expérience internationale pour la carrière et pour l’entreprise.
Cora Tsouflidou, fondatrice des restaurants Cora : une leader forgée par la vie
Authors: Cardinal Jacqueline
Published: April 2015

Au fil des ans, la réussite spectaculaire des Restaurants Cora a été saluée autant par le milieu des affaires en général que par le milieu du franchisage qui lui ont accordé de nombreux prix. Considérée comme la reine des petits déjeuners, Cora Tsouflidou ouvre son premier restaurant Chez Cora, en 1987. Aujourd’hui, la chaîne de restauration emploie 4 000 personnes et compte 131 établissements où sont servis 33 000 clients par jour dans tout le Canada. C’est pour subvenir aux besoins de ses trois enfants que cette mère monoparentale décide un jour d’acheter un petit restaurant, avec l’aide de son père. Après 13 ans d’un mariage malheureux, elle venait de quitter, sans prévenir, un mari violent. Grâce à ses économies durement amassées, elle ouvre, à 40 ans, un autre restaurant, un autre, puis un autre, avant de mettre sur pied une structure de franchisage dont elle ne connaissait rien au départ. Constatant que les repas les plus appréciés de ses clients sont les petits déjeuners, elle en avait fait sa spécialité, allant jusqu’à fixer les heures d’ouverture de ses établissements de 6 h à 15 h, du jamais vu. Le succès de son concept innovateur confirme qu’elle a joué un rôle déterminant de leader dans le milieu de la restauration du matin au Canada. Son leadership prend aujourd’hui la forme de la philanthropie et englobe des causes qui lui tiennent à cœur.
Gestion du transport intersites : le secteur des services peut apprendre de celui de la santé
Authors: Paquette Julie , Roy Jacques , Beaulieu Martin
Published: April 2015

La gestion du transport de matériel entre plusieurs sites d’une même organisation est un réservoir d’économies potentielles que plusieurs mésestiment dans le domaine des services. Cette situation s’explique par le fait que cette gestion est souvent décentralisée, ce qui ne permet pas d’avoir une vue d’ensemble de cette activité et du budget associé ainsi que des opportunités d’économies qui découleraient d’une vision plus holistique. À partir d’une série de cas provenant du milieu québécois de la santé, cet article étudie les pratiques de différents établissements et suggère une série de pratiques exemplaires, dont le développement d’un service centralisé de la gestion du transport qui pourrait entre autres aider à tracer le portrait financier lié à cette activité, la définition de processus de gestion du transport et de formulaires pour encadrer ce processus et l’optimisation des routes de transport. Ces pratiques sont applicables non seulement au secteur de la santé, mais également à plusieurs secteurs des services comme le secteur bancaire, les municipalités, les commissions scolaires, etc.
Évoluer en développement des affaires : Atouts, Attentes, Attraits et Aspirations pour ces professionnels de la commercialisation
Authors: Turgeon Normand
Published: April 2015

Les efforts stratégiques et tactiques de commercialisation des organisations font ressurgir la nécessité de revoir les tâches et les appellations de leurs professionnels de mise en marché. Ainsi, ces dernières années, des indicateurs pointent vers une nouvelle catégorie de professionnels en marketing, qu’on désigne par l’appellation « développement des affaires ». À la fois conceptuel et pragmatique, cet article permet de faire un tour d’horizon du rôle du développement des affaires en entreprise et des emplois en ce domaine. Un échantillon d’offres d’emploi parues en français au Québec a été analysé à l’aide du modèle inédit des quatre A, et les résultats sont donc présentés en termes d’atouts, d’attentes, d’attraits et d’aspirations des candidats. Cet article offre aux employeurs, professeurs, formateurs professionnels, chasseurs de talents, diplômés en administration des affaires, ou encore à toute personne en pratique des affaires, l’occasion de faire le point sur ce sujet.
Le dialogue au service du changement, de l’apprentissage et de l’éthique dans les organisations
Authors: Guntzburger Yoann , Lecourt Virginie , Pauchant Thierry C.
Published: April 2015

Le changement et l’apprentissage sont des sujets centraux pour la gestion des organisations. Bien que la pratique du dialogue ne soit pas une panacée, elle présente un processus de grand intérêt dans ce contexte, car elle agit à la fois sur les dimensions implicites de l’organisation comme les relations humaines, et sur les dimensions plus explicites comme sa structure. Plus précisément, la pratique du dialogue agit au niveau individuel en favorisant le développement réflexif, et au niveau relationnel en aidant au développement empathique et à la mise en perspective de ses valeurs. De plus, cette pratique agit au niveau organisationnel, d’une part en favorisant la compréhension du contexte et de la dynamique organisationnelle et, d’autre part, en diminuant les risques potentiels des activités, à l’interne et à l’externe des organisations. Globalement, la pratique du dialogue permet potentiellement une évolution éthique des pratiques organisationnelles en développant une vision globale de l’organisation et de ses relations avec les personnes et l’environnement.
L’exploration du leadership bicéphale dans les entreprises culturelles
Authors: Reid Wendy , Auger Claudine
Published: April 2015

Selon la conception traditionnelle, le leadership d’une organisation s’incarne en une seule et unique personne qui, grâce à son talent et à sa vision, mène une organisation là où elle l’entend. Pourtant, diriger autrement et avec succès peut mener à l’émergence d’idées diverses, mieux adaptées à notre univers complexe. Cet article porte un regard sur le leadership bicéphale, encore largement méconnu, où deux individus, mandatés par une tierce partie afin de mieux répondre aux multiples besoins d’une organisation, exercent un pouvoir complémentaire et également partagé. Ce type de leadership exploite de grandes forces, mais il doit affronter certains défis particuliers, engendrés essentiellement par les polarités qui en émergent, ce qui entraîne des conflits.
La gestion des alertes éthiques et le rôle des auditeurs internes
Authors: Bouchard Jérôme , Héroux Sylvie
Published: April 2015

Depuis 2002, l’alerte éthique est le moyen le plus communément utilisé pour détecter les fraudes en entreprise (ACFE, 2012). Or, peu d’études abordent le processus entourant la gestion des alertes éthiques. En examinant le cas de quatre organisations, cet article décrit la façon dont les alertes éthiques sont reçues, traitées, examinées, puis communiquées aux responsables de la gouvernance et autres instances, et enfin comment on encourage ce processus à l’intérieur des organisations. Il traite notamment du rôle joué par la fonction d’audit interne.
Comment sensibiliser localement à des pratiques écoresponsables ?
Authors: Dupré Mickaël , Dangeard Isabelle , Meineri Sébastien
Published: April 2015

De nombreux administrateurs sont confrontés à la problématique de sensibiliser les individus à des pratiques quotidiennes plus écoresponsables. Mais comment accompagner les usagers afin qu’ils éteignent les lumières et le matériel informatique quand ils quittent le bureau ? Comment favoriser l’usage du covoiturage afin de se rendre sur son lieu de travail ? Nous passerons en revue ici les principales stratégies de sensibilisation appliquées aux comportements écoresponsables. Après avoir présenté les traditionnelles techniques d’information et d’incitation, nous nous intéresserons à des techniques originales reposant sur la réalisation d’un acte préparatoire. Nous verrons que les stratégies comportementales présentent une option pertinente en matière de sensibilisation à l’environnement. Enfin, nous nous intéresserons à la technique de la rétroaction ( feedback ), qui peut être combinée avec les techniques précédemment mentionnées.
L’expérience internationale étudiante : un atout pour une carrière sur la scène mondiale ?
Authors: Robert Jocelyne , Carrabs Vincenzo
Published: April 2015

Les fusions-acquisitions (FA) sont des opérations complexes qui demandent un grand engagement. Elles sont un mode de développement couramment utilisé par les entreprises, bien qu’elles ne permettent pas toujours d’atteindre les objectifs fixés. La phase d’intégration est souvent déterminante en raison de la réorganisation des structures et des problématiques culturelles qu’elle engendre. De par sa capacité à influencer les stratégies des entreprises, le contrôle de gestion peut constituer un outil d’intégration. Ce papier se propose d’étudier le rôle stratégique du contrôle de gestion dans le processus d’intégration des FA internationales et l’illustre par le cas d’une entreprise multinationale.
Culture professionnelle et démarches qualité dans le secteur médico-social français
Authors: Dubost Nathalie
Published: April 2015

La loi française a imposé aux établissements et services du secteur médico-social de mettre en œuvre des démarches qualité. À l’origine, les réactions furent négatives, en raison d’une culture professionnelle peu propice à la formalisation et dénonçant un risque de standardisation des prises en charge. À partir d’une étude sur le terrain auprès de huit établissements, nous proposons trois facteurs qui ont contribué à mettre en place une évolution des pratiques professionnelles grâce aux démarches qualité, et nous en donnons quelques exemples. Ces démarches qualité mettent aussi en lumière des limites et des arbitrages à effectuer, qu’il convient d’anticiper pour ne pas risquer une démotivation des salariés.
Transitioning Experienced Registered Nurses Into an Obstetrics Specialty
Authors: Bell Renee , Bossier-Bearden Mary , Henry Armilla A.G. , Kirksey Kenn M.
Published: April 2015

Ensuring patient safety and enhancing nurse satisfaction both rank high on most hospitals’ list of priorities. One of the concerns at a large, comprehensive, county health care system in the southwestern United States has been the shortage of experienced obstetrics (OB) nurses to provide patient care. To address this concern, a nursing fellowship was implemented to facilitate successful transition and retention of experienced RNs into the specialty area of obstetrics. The program provided a gateway for non-OB nurses to participate in relevant, evidence-based didactic and preceptor-facilitated clinical experiences to ensure adequate knowledge, skills, and competencies to care for patients in labor, delivery, and recovery suites.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2015;46(4):187–192.
Tips for the Use of Simulation to Maintain Competency in Performing High-Risk/Low-Frequency Procedures
Authors: Stephenson Evelyn
Published: April 2015

Simulations are a way for educators to provide a safe way to maintain competency for procedural skills. Simulations allow for controlled evaluation and educational environments for both learners and educators. Helping the learner discern important information is a benefit of preforming high-risk/low-frequency skills during a simulation. High-risk/low-frequency simulations are a way to ensure that learners can perform procedures with infrequent clinical opportunity.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2015;46(4):157–159.