bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What is mLearning and how can it be used to support learning and teaching in Econometrics?
Authors: Morales Lucia
Published: November 2015

This research project analyzed the integration of mobile learning technologies in a postgraduate course in Finance (MSc in Finance) at Dublin Institute of Technology, where econometrics is an important course component. Previous experience with students undertaking econometrics modules supported this analysis, where the researcher detected a clear need for learning support. Econometrics courses are heavily supported by the use of sophisticated statistical software, the availability of which is normally restricted to designated labs in the college. As a result, this project has developed an application that facilitates students’ access to econometrics course work, where a mobile device was used. The main objective of the project was to enable students to bring their course material home with them and use it anywhere, at any time, so that the basic material covered in class could be consulted and reviewed as many times as the students need. The results of this project are very encouraging, as evidence suggests mobile technologies can play a positive role in improving students’ learning experience. Teachers should consider using mobile technologies to support their work in the classroom. In this context, smart phones and PC tablets, the devices used during this study, have proved to be particularly effective.
Toward a Transnational Framework: Aligning Internal and External Quality Assurance Processes
Authors: Plater William
Published: November 2015

This article explores the tensions between internal and external quality assurance processes, making a case for the preeminence of internal actions to ensure the capacity of institutions to respond quickly and effectively to the rapidly evolving global conditions affecting all of higher education. As the forms and means of formal and informal learning evolve more rapidly than quality assurance and accrediting bodies can adapt, institutions themselves will have to take the steps necessary to ensure that students are actually learning at levels represented by a new array of credentials and to offer credible evidence to employers and others that the credentials are indeed accurate reflections of competence. There is a place for quality assurance bodies, but these agencies will find it in their best interest to operate in the areas where they can offer the greatest societal value by articulating the standards that define integrity and quality. Both institutions and quality assurance bodies alike must join forces to recognize that expectations for what actually constitutes quality, competence, and integrity transcend national borders, cultural differences, the ages, occupations or locations of learners, and outmoded notions of prestige. It is a new era where bold ideas and strong ideals can reshape our understanding of what it means to learn throughout life at demonstrable levels of quality and competence.
Student Perception of Content Master and Engagement Using an e-Authoring Tool
Authors: Carver Lin , Todd Carol
Published: November 2015

Based upon student feedback, content area experts at a small, private university decided to redesign their online courses through the addition of an e-authoring tool that allowed for easier course navigation, expanded content, interactives/quizzes with immediate feedback, and purposeful use of graphics, videos, and audio components. Student perception of impact of the e-authoring tool and its components were analyzed through the use of a mixed method approach using a Likert survey and qualitative comments. Student and instructor qualitative comments were also analyzed and coded to determine themes. Students reported a perceived positive impact of the e-authoring tool on content mastery and engagement. Students also reported that all five components of the e-authoring tool (web-based visual appearance, pictures and graphics, interactive practices, table of contents, and additional navigational links) were important components and should be included in online the module.
 
SciELO, Scientific Electronic Library Online, a Database of Open Access Journals
Authors: Meneghini Rogerio
Published: November 2015

  SciELO is a scientific journal database operating in 14 countries. It covers over 1000 journals providing open access to full text and table sets of scientometrics data. In Brazil it is responsible for a collection of nearly 300 journals, selected along 15 years as the best Brazilian periodicals in natural and social sciences. Nonetheless, they still are national journal in the sense that over 80% of the articles are published by Brazilian scientists. Important initiatives focused on professionalization and internationalization are considered to bring these journals to a higher level of quality and visibility.

The idea of adopting the open access model for journals had only reached a large audience by the end of the nineties. One of the motivations was the distress of the university librarians due to the impossibility of keeping up with the subscription prices of their journal collections. The bothering of many scientists for having to pay access charges for articles on the internet also weighted significantly. After all, in its beginning the internet was a communication system that served exclusively the academic world.

The SciELO system is a fifteen years old program of support to selected scientific journals that operate on an open access platform. It was adopted by eleven other Latin American countries as well as Spain, Portugal, and South Africa, reaching over a thousand journals. It may be considered one of the most important programs of scientific communication in emerging countries and a world`s leading one adhering the open access model.
Bi-Lingual Teaching and Learning: Effectiveness and Challenges in Postgraduate Studies
Authors: Ling Lee Kar
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the use of bilingual teaching and learning methodology for Vietnamese postgraduate students from 2011-2012. Overall, the findings indicated relatively positive outcomes in most of the spectrum evaluated or assessed. These findings were then compared with previous researches and to ascertain the applicability to fundamental theories underpinning bilingual education to determine the correlation between theory and practice. This research provided an in-depth contextual based research that contributed to an extensive understanding of the effectiveness of the adoption of bilingual teaching and learning at postgraduate level within ASEAN countries. The research will also provide a platform for development nations to gain accesses to the required knowledge, skills, capabilities, and competencies that have thus far eluded them due to language barrier, thereby providing these nations with the impetus to grow and develop further as a nation via the effective development of the country’s human capital.

 
e-Learning for Expanding Distance Education in Tertiary Level in Bangladesh: Problems and Progress
Authors: Al-Masum Md. Abdullah , Chowdhury Saiful Islam
Published: November 2015

E-learning has broadly become an important enabler to promote distance education (DE) and lifelong learning in most of the developed countries, but in Bangladesh it is still a new successful progressive system for the learning communities. Distance education is thought to be introduced as an effective way of educating people of all sections in Bangladesh. Bangladesh Open University (BOU), the only distance education provider in Bangladesh, has been trying to adopt the use of various e-learning materials for its distance delivery. This paper has tried to describe the current progress of quality e-learning for expanding distance education, identifying the major problems of e-learning in distance education at tertiary level in Bangladesh, with special reference to BOU, and finally to put forward some valuable recommendations for solving the problems. The study is based on both primary and secondary sources. It is observed from the research that e-learning is going to ensure its bright prospect as an alternative mode of education at the tertiary level in Bangladesh. There are several problems that are identified and can be mitigated and solved through Information and Communication Technology (ICT) development, greater acceptance by learners, and much research in this sector in Bangladesh to face globalization.
Becoming a Scholar: Everything I Needed to Know I Learned on Sabbatical
Authors: Maranville Steven
Published: November 2015

This manuscript discusses matters of professional development for tenured business professors at teaching-oriented universities. These faculty members are at particular risk of a career plateau accompanied by diminished productivity and satisfaction. Employing autoethnographic methods, the author reflects on his personal experience and posits initiatives for career revitalization.
Inteligencia Emocional vs. Inteligencia General: Aspectos a Considerar en la Docencia / Emotional Intelligence vs. General Intelligence: Aspects to Consider in Teaching
Authors: Martínez-Rubio José L. , Moraleda Esther , Rodríguez Blanca , García-Salmones Lourdes , Primo Manuel
Published: November 2015

Para el desarrollo de esta investigación, se suministraron dos cuestionarios a estudiantes de la Universidad Europea de Madrid. Concretamente, los estudiantes cumplimentaron el cuestionario TEIQue (Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire) para la medición de la Inteligencia emocional y la escala R del Test PMA (Primary Mental Abilities) para la valoración del factor de razonamiento. Los resultados de esta investigación, aunque no han permitido establecer una vinculación clara entre Inteligencia Emocional e Inteligencia General, han permitido vislumbrar algunas tendencias que relacionan las subescalas del cuestionario TEIQue con el factor razonamiento de los estudiantes. A través de esta relación, se han podido establecer perfiles y, a partir de ellos, se han identificado las metodologías docentes más adecuadas para mejorar los resultados académicos de los estudiantes.

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In order to carry out this research, two questionnaires were administered to students from the Universidad Europea de Madrid. Specifically, students completed the TEIQue (Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire), which measures emotional intelligence, and the PMA (Primary Mental Abilities) Test in its R scale, which measures the reasoning factor. Although the results of this research failed to establish a clear link between Emotional Intelligence and General Intelligence, they have shown some trends that relate the TEIQue subscales with the reasoning factor in students. Through this relationship, it has been possible to establish profiles and, from them, to identify the most appropriate teaching methodologies in order to improve the students’ academic performance.
Keeping Students in by Sending Them out: Retention and Service-Learning
Authors: Yob Iris Mae
Published: November 2015

This review of recent literature examines the research on the impact of service-learning on student retention.  The theoretical framework of the review draws on both Tinto’s model of student attrition and Knowles’s theory of adult learning, which together suggest that academic and social integration, active participation and engagement in learning, and application and relevancy of the subject-matter under study are key factors in student success. The role of these factors has been confirmed in a growing body of research around learning experiences in general and, as this review shows, particularly in service-learning experiences. Suggestions are made for how future research might expand and critically deepen this evidence and offers some implications for service-learning as a means of improving student retention.
Undergraduate Students’ Perceptions of their Advisors: SocioCommunicative Style and Perceptions of Relational Satisfaction
Authors: Punyanunt-Carter Narissra , Carter Stacy
Published: November 2015

The goal of the current study was to examine the sociocommunicative styles that college students’ perceive their advisor to be using in their interactions. In addition, the study analyzed what characteristics lead to higher relational satisfaction in the advisor-advisee relationship. Three hundred and ninety-seven college students voluntarily completed a survey on their current advisor. Results revealed that there is a significant relationship between sociocommunicative style and relationship satisfaction.
Desarrollo de competencias en la educación superior como una oportunidad para mejorar la inteligencia emocional en los estudiantes
Authors: García-Salmones Lourdes , Gragera Enrique , Guadarrama Juan manuel , Primo Manuel , Baena Verónica
Published: November 2015

El mundo actual, globalizado, complejo, cambiante y basado en el conocimiento exige que las personas posean una serie de habilidades, capacidades cognitivas, afectivas, socioemocionales y físicas que les capacite para desenvolverse adecuadamente en diversos contextos, tanto vitales como profesionales. El presente artículo analiza si la Universidad está preparando a los estudiantes en todas estas dimensiones; para ello hemos considerado una muestra de estudiantes de la Universidad Europea (UE), dónde los estudiantes adquieren los conocimientos y las competencias de acuerdo con el EEES y dónde pretendemos valorar si los estudiantes, en los años de preparación universitaria, desarrollan sus competencias emocionales. Para medir la Inteligencia Emocional, se utiliza el cuestionario TEIQue que mide la inteligencia emocional “rasgo” a estudiantes de primer curso y último curso de las Facultades de Ciencias Sociales, Salud y Politécnica. Los resultados obtenidos muestran que no hay diferencias significativas en el perfil emocional entre los alumnos de primer y último curso. Estos resultados nos llevan a señalar que es necesario desarrollar acciones específicas destinadas al desarrollo de las competencias emocionales.
 
The Relationship Between Listening Proficiency And Speaking Improvement In Higher Education: Considerations In Assessing Speaking And Listening
Authors: Astorga Erickzon Dany
Published: November 2015

The present study examines the outcomes of having recourse to Listening skill as support to improve oral skills in English language teaching. In this context, data from 120 students at a specific higher education institution was analyzed; 60 of whom were provided with totally Listening-focused instruction and activities, while a separate group of 60 students receiving normal institutional English teaching. A comparative analysis of pre- and post-test rubric labels and scores indicates a close link between Listening proficiency and a slight improvement in functional and interactive oral sub-skills. The results of this study have implications for defining the foundations of future research in English teaching methodologies and strategies, and the second language assessment process for Speaking and Listening skills.
Definitions of Quality in Higher Education: A Synthesis of the Literature
Authors: Schindler Laura , Puls-Elvidge Sarah , Welzant Heather , Crawford Linda
Published: November 2015

The aim of this paper is to provide a synthesis of the literature on defining quality in the context of higher education. In our search for relevant literature, we intentionally cast a wide net, beginning with a broad search in Google Scholar followed by a narrower search in educational databases, including Academic Search Complete, Education Research Complete, Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), and SAGE Premier. We identified both peer-reviewed journal articles and publications from professional organizations, such as the International Organization for Standardization. We begin the paper with a discussion of the existing challenges and strategies for defining quality. Next, we provide a conceptual model of quality based on our review of the literature. Finally, we examine some considerations for defining quality assurance.
Influence of migratory ungulate management on competitive interactions with resident species in a protected area
Authors: Anderwald Pia , Herfindal Ivar , Haller Rudolf M. , Risch Anita C. , Schütz Martin , Schweiger Anna K. , Filli Flurin
Published: November 2015

Migratory animals can represent links between protected and unprotected parts of their home ranges. Management of such species outside a conservation area can influence species interactions inside the protected zone. This may result in unintended effects on populations of conservation concern even if they spend their entire life cycle within the protected area. We examined interspecific interactions between three species of large herbivores in the absence of mammalian predators in the Swiss National Park, and assessed whether the population size of the migratory red deer (Cervus elaphus) that is harvested outside the park in autumn and winter affected the two resident species, chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) and ibex (Capra ibex). Dietary overlap was high between the three species while they co‐occurred in the park, suggesting potential for interspecific resource competition. Particularly the habitat use of chamois was affected by red deer population size, with decreased use of meadows and forest with increasing red deer numbers, and increased use of areas covered by scree. Ibex habitat use was affected by the population sizes of all three species, but effects differed between species and season. Moreover, horn growth in young chamois and the population growth rate of ibex were negatively related to red deer numbers. The results suggest that high population size of red deer negatively affects ibex and chamois through the migratory behavior of red deer between protected and non‐protected areas. Effective management of a migratory ungulate species outside the protected part of its range, taking account of its ecology and natural behavior, can thus have positive effects on populations within a protected area by alleviating interspecific competition. However, this requires co‐operation between policy makers and hunters, acceptance by local people, as well as flexibility to deviate from traditional management regimes such as supplementary feeding to tie animals to certain areas.
Interactions among spruce beetle disturbance, climate change and forest dynamics captured by a forest landscape model
Authors: Temperli Christian , Veblen Thomas T. , Hart Sarah J. , Kulakowski Dominik , Tepley Alan J.
Published: November 2015

The risk of bark beetle outbreaks is widely predicted to increase because of a warming climate that accelerates temperature‐driven beetle population growth and drought stress that impairs host tree defenses. However, few if any studies have explicitly evaluated climatically enhanced beetle population dynamics in relation to climate‐driven changes in forest composition and structure that may alter forest suitability for beetle infestation. We synthesized current understanding of the interactions among climate, spruce beetles (Dendroctonus rufipennis) and forest dynamics to parameterize and further advance the bark beetle module of a dynamic forest landscape model (LandClim) that also integrates fire and wind disturbance and climate‐driven forest succession. We applied the model to a subalpine watershed in northwestern Colorado to examine the mechanisms and feedbacks that may lead to shifts in forest composition and spruce beetle disturbance under three climate change scenarios. Simulation results suggest increased drought‐ and beetle‐induced reduction of large Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii) trees while Douglas‐fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) increased in dominance throughout the study area under all climate change scenarios. This shift in forest composition and structure counterbalances the enhancing effects of accelerated beetle population development and increased drought‐induced susceptibility of spruce to beetles. As a result, we projected a long‐term decrease in beetle‐induced spruce mortality to below historical values under all climate scenarios at low elevations (<2800 m asl). Beetle‐induced spruce mortality above 2800 m asl and under moderate climate change was slightly higher and more variable than under historical conditions but decreased to 36% and 6% of historical values under intermediate and extreme climate change, respectively. Because mechanisms driving beetle disturbance dynamics are similar across different bark beetle species, we argue that the depletion of host trees due to drought and beetle disturbance may also be important in other climate‐sensitive beetle‐host systems. We advocate for the consideration of climate‐driven shifts in forest and disturbance dynamics in devising adaptive management strategies.
Free Triplet Conjecture and Equivalence Classes Derived Using Group Theory
Authors: Dakun Zhang , Guozhi Song , Cui Huang
Published: November 2015

All proteins are made up of 20 different amino acids which contain 4 kinds of nucleotides . Three consecutive
nucleotides on the gene, called triplet codons, are used to code an amino acid, and 64 triplet codons comprise the genetic
code table. Central dogma (DNA-RNA-protein) has been acknowledged, but the process and mechanism of mRNA
passing through the nuclear membrane still require further investigation. For these two problems mentioned above, this
paper proposed a conjecture of nucleotide free triplet and obtained 20 equivalence classes of mapping from free triplet
vertex set to nucleotide set using group theory. Whether the four numbers 3, 4, 20 and 64 have relevance are taken into
consideration here. Subsequently, the numbers 3, 4, 20 and 64 were connected together which was important for the
analysis of triplet code and protein composition.
The Status and Countermeasure of Nitrate Pollution Under Double Cropping
Systems in China
Authors: Ren Xiujuan , Yao Sumei , Wang Runqing , Wu Dafu , Chen Shilin
Published: November 2015

The multiple cropping is the main agricultural production pattern, including double cropping of rice in south
China and double cropping of wheat and corn in north China. Household investigation, typical farmland survey and county
statistics inspection were performed to analyze the status and countermeasure of nitrate pollution in China. The result
showed that the nitrate rate of underground water was slowly increased, but it was not above the standard of WHO. Under
the multiple cropping of winter wheat-summer corn, the nitrate level of irrigation well water had raised year after year
since 1991. Some countermeasures should be taken to avoid the nitrate content of underground water, such as increasing
the fertilizer use efficiency by taking agronomic measures, according to the local conditions, a reasonable allocation and
application of fertilizer and others.
Research on Formation Mechanism of Jiyang Shallow Saline Ground
Water
Authors: Fengjuan Zhang , Liting Xing , Song Wang , Huibo Zhuang , Tongwen Dou , Zengyuan Yang
Published: November 2015

Shallow salt water in the inland plain has huge development potential. Taking saline water area in Sungeng
Town, Jiyang County as an example, based on field water quality and water table tests., tracing test, methods such as
mathematical statistical, hydrochemistry diagram of piper and numerical simulation by PHREEQC are used to analyze
synthetically. 6862 groups data were studied. Results showed: (1) The groundwater presents typically “weather -
evaporation” type, chemistry type is Cl.SO4-Mg.Na. and Cl.SO4-Na.Mg type. (2) In area of inland saline water presents
characteristics of lagging water flow with high clay content in aquifer medium. Groundwater mineralization is obvious.
(3) Hydrogeochemistry actions such as evaporation, alternate adsorption and water-rock interaction are the primary cause
of the forming complex hydrochemistry type. The unique groundwater circulation characteristics of inland plains saltwater
area makes water dynamic being relatively stable.
How Betrayal Affects Emotions and Subsequent Trust
Authors: Lee Wing Shing , Selart Marcus
Published: November 2015

This article investigates the impact of different emotions on trust decisions taking into account the experience
of betrayal. Thus, an experiment was created that included one betrayal group and one control group. Participants in the
betrayal group experienced more intense feelings governed by negative emotions than participants in the control group
did. Moreover, participants in the betrayal group significantly lowered their trust of another stranger. On the other hand,
we found some evidence that neuroticism exaggerated the relationship between experienced betrayal and subsequent trust.
Main Allergens Observed in Patients with Contact Dermatitis in a Brazilian Population Group
Authors: Calamita Zamir , Cristina Rizzo Alonso Ana , Carla Oliveira da Costa Lorena , Bronhara Pelá Calamita Andrea
Published: November 2015

Background: The skin contact test or patch test is considered to be a fundamental tool for investigating allergic
contact dermatitis (ACD). Better knowledge on the prevalence of allergens in the environment is a good strategy for
enabling a better approach towards contact dermatitis (CD) cases.

Objective: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of the main allergens of ACD in a population
group in the interior of the state of São Paulo, Brazil.

Methods: The results from 368 patch tests on adult patients with CD were evaluated through a retrospective study under
the supervision of the Discipline of Allergy and Clinical Immunopathology and the Discipline of Dermatology at the
Marília Medical School.

Results: Mean age was 41.2 (± 17.2) years, with predomination of women (71.5%). The majority of the patients (91.3%)
presented reactivity to at least one substance. Nickel sulfate and the perfume mix stood out as the most allergenic
substances.

Conclusion: Among the variety of substances to be tested in an etiological investigation for CD, perfumes and nickel are
especially likely to be allergens in this population group.
Frequency of factors that complicate the identification of mild traumatic brain injury in level I trauma center patients
Authors: Furger Robyn E , Nelson Lindsay D , Lerner E Brooke , McCrea Michael A
Published: November 2015

Aim: Determine the frequency of factors that complicate identification of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) in emergency department patients. Setting: Chart review. Materials & methods: Records of 3042 patients (age 18–45 years) exposed to a potential mechanism of mTBI were reviewed for five common complicating factors and signs of mTBI. Results: Most patients (65.1%) had at least one complicating factor: given narcotics in the emergency department (43.7%), on psychotropic medication (18.4%), psychiatric diagnosis (15.3%), alcohol consumption near time of admission (14.2%) and preadmission narcotic prescription (8.9%). Conclusion: Our findings highlight the frequency of these confounding factors in this population. Future research should identify how these factors interact with performance on assessment measures to improve evidence-based mTBI assessment in this population.
Maintenance of Goal Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, and A1C Levels in Veterans With Type 2 Diabetes After Discharge From a Pharmacist-Managed Ambulatory Care Clinic
Authors: Erwin P. Benjamin , Pitlick Matthew K. , Peters Golden L.
Published: November 2015

Objective. This study evaluated the ability of patients with type 2 diabetes to maintain systolic blood pressure (SBP), LDL cholesterol, and A1C at goal levels after being discharged from a pharmacist-managed ambulatory care clinic. The goals of this study were to 1) document the length of time to failure of maintenance of each goal and 2) characterize risk factors that may be associated with a shorter time to failure.

Methods. Researchers reviewed the medical records of veterans with diabetes who were discharged from the clinical pharmacy ambulatory care clinic between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2009 after attaining their goal SBP, LDL cholesterol, or A1C. The time to goal failure, medical history, laboratory data, medications, demographic information, and clinic appointment attendance were documented.

Results. A total of 69 patients who were discharged from the clinic after meeting their SBP, LDL cholesterol, or A1C goal subsequently failed to maintain that goal. The mean time to failure was 9.4 months (SD 8.75 months) for SBP, 25.8 months (27.45 months) for LDL cholesterol, and 20.4 months (15.1 months) for A1C. Multiple risk factors were associated with a shorter time to failure of maintenance of SBP and A1C goals.

Conclusion. Veterans with type 2 diabetes in this study demonstrated durable maintenance of their goal LDL cholesterol and A1C levels after being discharged from a pharmacist-managed ambulatory care clinic. However, maintenance of xSBP goals did not demonstrate the same durability. Patients who meet their SBP goal may benefit from receiving continued disease state management services from a pharmacist-managed ambulatory care clinic instead of being discharged to receive their usual care.
Texting for Health: An Evaluation of a Population Approach to Type 2 Diabetes Risk Reduction With a Personalized Message
Authors: Khurshid Anjum , Brown Lisanne , Mukherjee Snigdha , Abebe Nebeyou , Kulick David
Published: November 2015

txt4health is an innovative, 14-week, interactive, population-based mobile health program for individuals at risk of type 2 diabetes, developed under the Beacon Community Program in the Greater New Orleans, La., area. A comprehensive social marketing campaign sought to enroll hard-to-reach, at-risk populations using a combination of mass media and face-to-face engagement in faith-based and retail environments. Little is known about the effectiveness of social marketing for mobile technology application in the general population. A systematic evaluation of the campaign identified successes and barriers to implementing a population-based mobile health program. Face-to-face engagement helped increase program enrollment after the initial launch; otherwise, enrollment leveled off over time. Results show positive trends in reaching target populations and in the use of mobile phones to record personal health information and set goals for reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. The lessons from the txt4health campaign can help inform the development and programmatic strategies to provide a person-level intervention using a population-level approach for individuals at risk for diabetes as well as aid in chronic disease management.
Characterization of Microbial Communities in Household Washing Machines
Authors: Nix Ilka D. , Frontzek André , Bockmühl Dirk P.
Published: November 2015

Although microbial contaminations of domestic appliances are believed to gain importance, especially due to the trend towards lower cleaning temperatures, little is known about the existing microbial communities inside household washing machines. This study aimed to improve the knowledge of microbial composition of biofilms within household washing machines using a cultural-independent technology. Biofilms inside the detergent drawer and the rubber door seal of household washing machines were analysed using the 454-pyrosequencing method. The microbial community inside washing machines appeared to be highly diverse with Proteobacteria as the main prokaryotic and Basidiomycota and Ascomycota as the main fungal colonizers.
Hygiene in Domestic Laundering – Consumer Behavior in Germany
Authors: Lambert Edith , Bichler Sandra , Stamminger Rainer
Published: November 2015

The aim of this study was to assess consumers' behavior in home hygiene with particular attention paid to hygiene in laundering. In this way, the applications of washing temperatures and detergents on textiles are evaluated. The data were obtained by using a questionnaire distributed at the “Action Day Sustainable Washing” arranged annually. The results of this sample provide a relevant insight into consumers' behavior: The consumer can generally estimate the level of infection risk coming from the different textiles. However, the majority of high risk textiles, such as cleaning cloths, are washed with detergents that do not contain any bleaching system. In view of the washing temperatures applied, the results indicate differences between the generations. This study clearly demonstrates the need for enhanced consumer communication regarding hygiene effectiveness in laundering.
Effect of Tween 40 and Tween 60 on the Properties of a Cationic Slow-Set Emulsifier
Authors: Li Zhenfeng , Pang Jinyu
Published: November 2015

The properties of a cationic slow-set emulsifier named INDULIN SBT in the absence and presence of Tween 40 and Tween 60 is investigated in this paper. After adding Tween 40 and Tween 60, the interfacial tension and dilatational modulus of SBT have remarkable changes. Compared with the pure SBT system, the interfacial properties of the mixed surfactant systems are improved obviously, especially if the ratio of the mixtures is 1 : 1. The Zeta potentials are also the lowest with favorable storage stability in these systems. At suitable ratios, synergistic adsorption may take place, resulting in remarkable enhanced interfacial properties. The combination of SBT and Tween 40 as well as Tween 60 could be used as surfactant mixtures applied in asphalt emulsions.
Combination of Best Promoter and Micellar Catalyst for Chromic Acid Oxidation of D-Arabinose in Aqueous Media at Room Temperature
Authors: Malik Suzanna , Saha Bidyut
Published: November 2015

The present paper describes the kinetics and mechanism for oxidation of D-arabinose by Cr(VI) in the presence of a micellar media. The anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) and nonionic surfactant Triton-X-100 (TX-100) accelerate the process while the cationic surfactant N-cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) retards the reaction. A suitable mechanism has been proposed. The reaction constants involved in different steps of the mechanism have been calculated. Formic acid and erythronic acid were reported as the products of oxidation of the sugar.
Defining Research Priorities for Nutrition and Mental Health: Insights from Dietetics Practice
Authors: D’Andreamatteo Carla , Davison Karen M. , Vanderkooy Pat
Published: November 2015

In 2014, a national initiative aimed at defining a research agenda for nutrition and mental health among diverse stakeholders was completed and included insights from more than 300 registered dietitians. This study explores the data from dietitians based on their years of practice, mental health experiences, and community of practice in relationship to identified mental health and nutrition research priorities. Analysis of numerical data (n = 299) and content analysis of open-ended responses (n = 269) revealed that respondents desired research for specific mental health conditions (MHCs), emotional eating, food addiction, populations with special needs, and people encountering major life transitions (e.g., recovery from abuse, refugees). Findings from the quantitative and textual data suggested that dietitians want research aimed at addressing the concerns of those in the community, fostering consumer nutrition knowledge and skill acquisition, and developing services that will impact quality of life. Subgroup analysis indicated that dietitians: (i) in early years of practice want information about specific MHCs; (ii) living in smaller towns and rural areas want data about the cost benefits of dietetics practice in mental health; and (iii) who also had additional stakeholder roles (e.g., service provider) selected priorities that address gaps in mental health services. This study highlights opportunities to tailor nutrition and mental health research that advance dietetics practice.
Hepatoprotective Effect of Chenopodium Album Linn. Whole Plant on Biochemical Parameters Against Paracetamol Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Ata Maliha , Jahangir Selim Md , Islam Md Mahbubul , Akter Rasheda , Sarkar Md Tofayel Hossain , Uddin Gias , Chowdhury Zahangir Alam , Biswas Rajat Sanker Roy
Published: November 2015

Chenopodium album Linn (Called Bathua in Bengali) is a plant which has a long history of uses in liver disorders in this subcontinent. This study was done to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of ethanol extract of this plant on paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats. The total experiments were designed as follows (I) Experiment (part I):- Induction of hepatotoxicity by single administration of paracetamol at a dose of 2 gm/kg body weight. (2) Experiment (part II) : Effects of ethanol extract of Chenopodium album Linn. on paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats. The biochemical reports suggested that acute administration of paracetamol produced significant hepatotoxicity in experimental rats which was evidenced by significant increase in Serum Bilirubin, Serum Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) Serum Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) Serum Alkaline Phosphatese (ALP) level, decrease in serum albumin and serum total protein level. When rats were treated with extracts of C. album plant in paracetamol induced hepatotoxic albino rats, the results showed marked reduction in serum bilirubin, serum ALT, serum AST and serum ALP level and increase of serum albumin level but not sigificant increase of total protein as compared with paracetamol treated group. The results of the present study revealed that ethanol extract of Chenopodium album Linn. whole plant has got protective effects against paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity. Further study is needed to find out the curative effect and to isolate the active principle and to explore out the exact hepatoprotective mechanism of this plant extract.Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.14 (2); Jul 2015; Page 1-4
Ponseti Technique is the Best Option for the Treatment of Idiopathic Congenital Club Foot by the Age of Two Years
Authors: Rahman Md Mostafizur , Islam Shafiqul , Rouf Abdur , Momen Md Abdul , Islam Md Zahidul , Ohab Md Abdul , Rahman Md Ashfaqur , Shaha Bablu Kumar
Published: November 2015

Club foot is the commonest congenital deformity in babies. Around 80% of the cases occur in developing nations. There are many option for treating club foot, Ponseti technique is one of them. This prospective interventional study was carried out at the Department of Orthopaedic & Traumatology, Rangpur Medical College Hospital, over period of 3 year from 22/09/2011 to 22/12/2014. One hundrad and Fifty patients of two hundrads and twenty three foots were treated by ponseti technique and followed up for the purpose of this study. Both rigid and non rigid variety of club foot were treated irrespective of sex and side of foot involvement. Pirani scoring system was used to assess the severity of deformity, needs of tenotomy and evaluation of result. All the patients were treated by Ponseti technique, only 83 (11.1%) foot by plaster, 140 (88.9%) foot required tenotomy. There were complication of 29 (13%) foot of 19 patients in the form of plaster sore. All patients were under bracing protocol. In this study it is found that 94.61% satisfactory result. So Ponseti technique is a safe, effective & low cost and easily acceptable. So it is the best option for the treatment of idiopathic congenital club foot under the age of two years.Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.14 (2); Jul 2015; Page 27-30
Outcome of Pituitary Adenoma Surgery Through Transphenoidal Microscopic Approach : A Study of 15 Cases
Authors: Nath Haradhan Deb , Barua Kanak Kanti , Das Malay Kumar , Bari Shahnewaz
Published: November 2015

Background: Transphenoidal microscopic approach is minimally invasive surgery in case of pituitary adenoma. Comparatively less complication than transcranial approach.Objective: The purpose of the study to see the outcome of transphenoidal microscopic removal of pituitary adenoma.Results: The study showed the majority 8(53.33%) of patients were female. It was documented that 7(46.66%) of patient had age group 21-40 years. It was evident that 13(86.66%) of patient had macroadenoma. Among the 15 patients 14(93.33%) had visual disturbance and 1(6.64%) had pituitary apoplexy. Tumor was totally removed under microscope in 10(66.67%) cases. It was documented that 12(80.11%) of patients improved after surgery.Conclusion: Transphenoidal microscopic pituitary surgery is one of the important procedure which can save many lives with lack of postoperative complication.Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.14 (2); Jul 2015; Page 38-42
Abdomino Pelvic Tuberculosis Versus Advanced Ovarian Malignancy : A Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Noor Serajun , Nahar Nurun , Bilkis Afroza , Jabin Taniza
Published: November 2015

Pelvic tuberculosis a common infectious cause of human death remains a global health problem, primarily in developing countries .Diagnosis of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis is challenging as it is rarely pinpointed by clinical symptoms, laboratory and radiological findings of low specificity. Pelvic tuberculosis should be considered in young women presented with pelvic mass, ascites and elevated serum CA 125. A series of fourteen cases between the 20 to 70 years are being reported having spectrum of clinical feature and creating diagnostic dilemma. The final diagnosis was made by histopathology after FNAC, laparoscopy or laparotomy are reviewed here. So the aim was formulation of high degree of suspicion aided by intensive investigation for timely diagnosis of genital tuberculosis, to see the response of antituberculer therapy and avoid unnecessary extended surgery.Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.14 (2); Jul 2015; Page 65-69
Metformin: A Drug of Choice for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Near Future- Hope or Despair?
Authors: Alam ASM Towhidul , Ahmed Shaheda
Published: November 2015

Pregnancy is a potentially glucose intolerant condition. Insulin sensitivity decreases as the pregnancy advances. At the later stage of pregnancy, some women develop Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) particularly obese with pre-existing insulin resistance. Insulin is recognized as the gold standard for the treatment of GDM. However, difficulty in administration with multiple daily injections, potential for hypoglycemia, and increase in appetite and weight, make this therapeutic option troublesome for many pregnant patients. Oral hypoglycaemic drugs have been viewed with suspicion for many years in the management of women with diabetes during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, recent data from well designed trials and meta-analysis may contribute a visible change in practice in terms of oral agents, especially metformin in gestational diabetes. Some cohort data are available and randomized trials are currently in progress to compare metformin with insulin. Evidence is emerging that metformin may improve insulin sensitivity during pregnancy. This may be beneficial in GDM. Use of metformin in pregnancy has opened a new horizon for GDM management. The aim of this article is to review the safety, efficacy and future of metformin in diabetic pregnancy, thus contributing meaningfully in safe motherhood.Chatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.14 (2); Jul 2015; Page 70-77
Editor's Note 14(2)
Authors: Badruddoza Md
Published: November 2015

Abstract not availableChatt Maa Shi Hosp Med Coll J; Vol.14 (2); Jul 2015; Page 84
WBW 2015: Breastfeeding and Work Let's make it Work!
Authors: Yasmeen BH Nazma
Published: November 2015

Abstract not availableNorthern International Medical College Journal Vol.7(1) Jul 2015: 85-86
Use of Clomiphene for Infertility in the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Jahan Naseem , Yasmeen BH Nazma , Parvin Mosammat Bilkis , Akhter Shirin , Yeasmin Salma
Published: November 2015

Background : The polycystic ovary syndrome is a common cause of infertility. Clomiphene is the current first-line infertility treatment in women with the polycystic ovary syndrome.Objective : To observed effect of clomiphene therapy in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome.Methodology : In this cross-sectional study we enrolled 210 infertile women aged 25  35 years diagnosed as polycystic ovary syndrome. Participants who had normal urine cavity and sperm concentration of at least 20 million/ml of her husband were prescribed clomiphene for 6 months. Medication was discontinued when pregnancy was confirmed and participants were followed until delivery.Results : After 6 months treatment 85(40.5%) patient was conceived. Live birth was 44(20.9%) of 210 subjects. Among pregnancies multiple (twin) birth was 12(5.7%). First trimester pregnancy loss was 41(19.5%). After having 6 months of therapy there was no pregnancy in125 (59.5%) patients.Conclusions : Clomiphene is safe and cost effective medicine in achieving live birth in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome.Northern International Medical College Journal Vol.7(1) Jul 2015: 94-96
A Medico Legal Study of Hanging Cases at Dhaka Medical College
Authors: Ahmad Mushtaq , Rahman Farial Naima , Hussain Md Anwar , Chowdhury Md Habibuzzaman , Yasmeen BH Nazma
Published: November 2015

This retrospective study was conducted among 574 Autopsy cases of hanging victims at the Dhaka Medical College Morgue during the period January 2008-December 2009. Objective : The objective of this study was to find out the physical charecteristics, cause, place as well as the injuries specially in neck structures, variation of ligature materials, ligature marks, position of knot in the study subjects.Methods : A total of 5114 autopsies were performed during the study period, out of which 574(11.22%) were hanging cases. Ligature strangulation and manual strangulation cases were excluded from this study. Various Data of this hanging victims regarding places of incidence, time, suspected causes of death (related information were gathered from the victims attendants), type of suspension were noted from the inquest report accompanying the dead bodies. Points regarding ligature material, position of knot, pattern of ligature marks, injury to neck structures,fracture of hyoid bone and thyroid cartilages were collected from the 3rd copy of post mortem reports preserved in the Forensic Medicine & Toxicology Department of DMC. Finally data were analyzed and presented in table,graph and in pie chart.Results : Out of 574 hanging cases female were predominant (72.29%). Among them 304( 52.96%) were married. Marital disharmony/quarrel between couples was the main cause 172(29.96%) of hanging. Most of the victims 269(46.86%) were in the age group 21-30 years.Dopatta (orna) was the commonest 237(41.28%) ligature material. Considering the knot, most were situated at right side of neck 281 ( 48.95%).In this study single ligature mark has been found in 511(89.02%) cases and was non continuous in 478(83.27%) study subjects. In 520(90.59%) cases ligature was found above thyroid cartilage level. The mark was oblique in 509(88.68%) cases and impression corresponding to ligature material found in 126(21.95%) cases. Considering injury to neck structures most of them 448(78.04%) had stretching and elongation of neck, haemorrhage in underlying layers of neck skin in 372(64.81%). Injury to the other structures of neck were variable. Most of the victims 401(69.86%) hanged themselves at night. 545 body (94.95%) were recovered from inside the living room. Most victims had complete suspension 472 (82.23%).Conclusion : This retrospectivemedico legal study find out various data of hanging victims of one of the largest heath care center, Dhaka Medical College, which cover a large area of population. Though multi center prospective study should be carried out to find out our real situation.Northern International Medical College Journal Vol.7(1) Jul 2015: 110-114