bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La qualité de l’audit légal en Afrique francophone :
Authors: Causse Geneviève , Ebondo Wa Mandzila Eustache
Published: April 2016

L’audit légal est une activité d’intérêt général dont la qualité dépend essentiellement des contrôles exercés sur la profession. L’objectif de notre article est de faire un état des lieux des cadres institutionnels de l’audit légal prévalant dans les pays d’Afrique francophone que l’on rattache à « l’École française de comptabilité ». L’analyse des textes réglementaires et professionnels, ainsi qu’une enquête auprès des professionnels permettent d’affirmer que la profession est partout réglementée et contrôlée mais à des degrés assez divers. Elle est relativement peu développée dans la zone géographique étudiée. Le constat effectué conduit aux questions suivantes : le développement et la qualité de l’audit ne seraient-ils pas contingents du niveau de développement économique et des caractéristiques culturelles du pays considéré ? Peut-on échapper à la pression de la normalisation internationale et envisager un profil d’auditeur adapté au contexte économique et social ? L’objectif de notre communication est également de tenter de répondre à ces interrogations.
Expertise comptable en Tunisie :
Authors: Khlif Wafa , El Omari Sami
Published: April 2016

L’objectif de cet article est d’explorer les conditions sociales de création de la profession des experts-comptables tunisiens ainsi que de comprendre les enjeux de ses batailles territoriales. Au niveau théorique, nous avons combiné l’approche néo-Weberienne avec celle d’A. Abbott. Au niveau empirique, nous nous sommes basés sur des sources primaires complétées par une enquête quantitative ainsi que des entretiens semi-directifs. Trois principaux résultats sont retenus : 1. le rôle central de l’État dans l’évolution de la profession, 2. la persistance postcoloniale de l’influence du modèle français et 3. le mouvement continu des frontières professionnelles des experts- comptables.
Les déterminants de la détention de trésorerie :
Authors: Baklouti Ibtissem , Bouri Abdelfattah
Published: April 2016

Cet article examine les facteurs susceptibles d’influer sur la décision de la détention de trésorerie des entreprises tunisiennes cotées sur la période 2000-2010. La théorie de Free Cash-Flow joue un rôle important dans l’explication de la détention de trésorerie par les entreprises tunisiennes. En fait, nos résultats montrent que le niveau de détention de trésorerie augmente lorsque l’entreprise n’a pas d’opportunités de croissance importantes et dégage un niveau important de cash-flow. Elle diminue lorsque l’entreprise est plus endettée. La détention de trésorerie diminue lorsque le dirigeant détient une part du capital de l’entreprise (effet d’alignement), et augmente si la participation du dirigeant dans le capital devient assez élevée (effet d’enracinement).
De l’autre côté du périph’ :
Authors: Tixier Julie , Notais Amélie
Published: April 2016

Cet article s’attache aux cas de 6 femmes entrepreneures sociales dans les quartiers. Sur la base de leurs récits de vie, recueillis au cours d’une formation dédiée à l’entrepreneuriat social au cœur de la cité des 4000 de la Courneuve, la problématique suivante est investie : dans quelle mesure le projet d’entrepreneuriat social révèle-t-il une construction identitaire pour les femmes des quartiers ? Ces six femmes, dans leur complexité et la diversité de leur parcours, exposent une construction identitaire, en périphérie du cadre. Elles proposent un « devenir-entrepreneure » au sens de G. Deleuze et F. Guattari (1980). Enfin, une démarche réflexive des chercheures questionne un « devenir-chercheure » autrement. This research focuses on six female social entrepreneurs in deprived areas. Their life stories were collected during a specific training session on social entrepreneurship in the city of la Courneuve. The research question is the following: to what extent the social entrepreneurship project is the revelator of an identity construction for women in deprived areas? The cases of six women in their complexity and background diversity expose an identity construction following a peripheral process. Those women propose a « becoming entrepreneure » in the sense of G. Deleuze and F. Guattari (1980). Finally, the researchers’ reflective approach leads them towards questioning a differently « becoming-researcher ».
Proposition of a modeling and an analysis methodology of integrated reverse logistics chain in the direct chain
Authors: Mimouni Faycal , Abouabdellah Abdellah
Published: April 2016

Purpose: Propose a modeling and analysis methodology based on the combination of Bayesian networks and Petri networks of the reverse logistics integrated the direct supply chain.Design/methodology/approach: Network modeling by combining Petri and Bayesian network.Findings: Modeling with Bayesian network complimented with Petri network to break the cycle problem in the Bayesian network.Research limitations/implications: Demands are independent from returns.Practical implications: Model can only be used on nonperishable products.Social implications: Legislation aspects: Recycling laws; Protection of environment; Client satisfaction via after sale service.Originality/value: Bayesian network with a cycle combined with the Petri Network.
The Flipped Learning Approach in Nursing Education: A Literature Review
Authors: Presti Carmen Rosa
Published: April 2016

Background:

This integrative review examines the application of the pedagogical methodology—the flipped classroom—in nursing education.

Method:

A literature search of the CINAHL, ERIC, and the National Library of Medicine (PubMed and MEDLINE) databases was conducted, using the following key words:
flipped classroom
,
inverted classroom
, and
nursing education
.

Results:

Results of a literature search yielded 94 articles, with 13 meeting the criteria of the flipped classroom approach in nursing education. Themes identified include the theoretical underpinning, strategies for implementation of a flipped classroom, and student satisfaction with and outcomes of the flipped classroom approach.

Conclusion:

Syntheses of the findings indicate that the flipped classroom approach can yield positive outcomes, but further study of this methodology is needed to guide future implementation. [
J Nurs Educ.
2016;55(5):252–257.]
Teaching Nursing Students the Importance of Treatment Fidelity in Intervention Research: Students as Interventionists
Authors: Eymard Amanda S. , Altmiller Gerry
Published: April 2016

Background:

Treatment fidelity is the extent to which a study team adheres to the dictates of a study protocol. It ensures that the intervention has been implemented as intended. Including and monitoring treatment fidelity reduces threats to validity and is vital to providing reputable, sound research.

Method:

This article describes specific measures taken to teach nursing students the key concepts and methodologic issues associated with treatment fidelity in intervention research studies through active learning. Twelve senior-level nursing students participated as interventionists in a study that spanned 4 months.

Results:

Treatment fidelity strategies included development of a manual, proper training and supervision of interventionists, a follow-up meeting with the interventionists, checklists, and a controller.

Conclusion:

The treatment fidelity strategies implemented throughout the study provided an opportunity for students to learn firsthand how such strategies are implemented and how they strengthened the confidence that study findings are indeed related to the intervention. [
J Nurs Educ.
2016;55(5):288–291.]
Orbital Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor With Heterologous Elements in a 15-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Kiratli Hayyam , Koç Irem , Orhan Diclehan
Published: April 2016

A 15-year-old girl presented with painful proptosis in the right eye. Imaging studies demonstrated an inferiorly located orbital mass. Histopathological examination of the exenteration specimen was consistent with malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor. This case is a rare example of orbital malignant periperhal nerve sheath tumor presumably arising from the infraorbital nerve with heterologous histologic elements.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 2016;53:e12–e14.]
Analysis of parametric fluorescence amplified in a noncollinear optical parametric amplifier pumped by the second harmonic of a femtosecond Yb:KGW laser
Authors: Stanislauskas Tomas , Balčiūnas Ignas , Tamuliene Viktorija , Budriūnas Rimantas , Varanavičius Arūnas
Published: April 2016

We present the results of theoretical and experimental investigation of amplified parametric fluorescence (APF) produced in a high-gain BBO-based femtosecond noncollinear optical parametric amplifier (OPA) pumped at 515 nm. Differences of APF levels in Poynting vector walk-off-compensating and tangential phase-matching amplification geometries are examined. APF suppression due to the presence of a seed pulse in the OPA is measured and is found to be around 6 times in typical OPA operating conditions when pump-to-signal conversion efficiency is 11.5%.
A tunable femtosecond stimulated Raman scattering system based on spectrally narrowed second harmonic generation
Authors: Redeckas Kipras , Voiciuk Vladislava , Vengris Mikas
Published: April 2016

In this work we present a femtosecond stimulated Raman scattering system. The setup is based on a commercial femtosecond laser system supplemented by a pair of travelling-wave optical parametric amplifiers. One of the parametric amplifiers is used to generate the femtosecond actinic pump pulses, whereas the output of the other (high-power) parametric amplifier undergoes a combination of spectrally narrowed second harmonic generation in a long non-linear crystal and subsequent spectral filtering for the generation of narrowband Raman pump pulses. Chirped white light supercontinuum is used as the Raman probe. The setup offers tunability of the Raman pump pulses in the 400–800 nm range, and spectral and temporal resolutions of ca. 6 cm–1 and ca. 70 fs, respectively. We present the basic technical and optical aspects of the system along with data acquisition and signal retrieval techniques. We characterize the system by exploring the time-resolved vibrational dynamics of the S2(11Bu+) and S1(21Ag–) excited states of β-carotene.
Neutralization of acidic sulfates with ammonia in volcanic origin aerosol particles
Authors: Šakalys Jonas , Meinorė Ernesta , Kvietkus Kęstutis
Published: April 2016

Volcanic pollutants emitted during the Grimsvötn volcano eruption in Iceland on 21 May 2011 were unexpectedly captured from 24 until 29 May 2011 at the Institute of Physics, Vilnius. Measurements were performed using an Aerodyne quadrupole aerosol mass spectrometer. This paper aims to address the question whether the extent of neutralization is dependent on the aerosol particle size in submicron range particles (PM1). Data from two episodes of volcanic pollutants in advected air masses were chosen for examination. The first episode lasted from 0700 to 1400 UTC 25 May and the second episode lasted from 0400 until 1100 UTC 26 May. It was observed that the extent of acidic sulfate particle neutralization with atmospheric ammonia depends on the aerosol particle size. The extent of neutralization decreased when the particle aerodynamic diameter increased. Particles with an aerodynamic diameter of few tenths of nanometres tended to be fully neutralized and those with a consecutively increasing diameter of up to 1 µm were only partially neutralized. The assessment of ambient ammonia flux onto the adjacent aerosol particle surface was performed. It was shown that the flux of ammonia can vary approximately from 30 to 74 µg m–2 h–1.
The Influence of the Long-Term Storage of Hardwood on the Selected Physical and Mechanical Properties in View of Pulping
Authors: Seman Blažej , Geffert Anton , Geffertova Jarmila
Published: April 2016

Wood is loosely stored to ensure continuous production inside paper mills where it is exposed to the effect of external factors. The impact of storage leads to some changes of mechanical and physical properties of wood, but these changes are not the same in all specimens. In this paper, it has been observed that the long term storage of wood influences the impact strength in bending and the permeability of wood for fluids. During the storage, there was a decrease of impact strength in bending of poplar heartwood by 28.3% and oak by 22.1% and mature beech wood by 37.3%. Also, there was decreased a permeability of wood, poplar sapwood 18.3 % and heartwood of 53.9%; oak sapwood by 20.0% and heartwood by 20.3%; beech sapwood 45.8% and mature wood by 48.2%. By decrease of the observed properties of the stored wood, a deterioration a quality of produced pulp can be expected (a higher Kappa number, amount reject and decrease the mechanical properties of pulp).
Deep Eutectic Solvents as Medium for Pretreatment of Biomass
Authors: Škulcová Andrea , Kamenská Lucia , Kalman Filip , Ház Aleš , Jablonský Michal , Čížová Katarína , Šurina Igor
Published: April 2016

In the field of green chemistry is the study of new solvent systems the great challenge. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) represent the principles of green chemistry. Currently are preferred these new types of chemicals suitable for the selective removal of extractives, lignin or polysaccharides from biomass. Biomass is selectively treated to the individual fractions, of which is possible with following purification to obtain products in higher yields and purity. In this work are describes various deep eutectic solvents, which can be used for pretreatment of biomass.
The Dimensional Characteristics of the Particles of Wood Dust of Selected Deciduous Trees Considering to Explosion
Authors: Mračková Eva , Tureková Ivana
Published: April 2016

The article is dealing with wood dust particle size problem in consideration of their fire and explosion. The aim of the thesis is statistical evaluation of wooden particles of Palisander (Jacaranda Mimosifolia) and Oak (Quercus robur L.). The samples were taken from the operation of the production furniture, in which dust is formed during the technology. Measurement was carried out by laser analyzer. Measurements were carried out on samples in specific time interval. Values, which were acquired, were evaluated of characteristics of the Weibull Distribution and treated in statistical program. It has been found by means of measurement and evaluation that sample of Palisander (Jacaranda Mimosifolia) has finer grain than sample of Oak (Quercus robur L.), therefore the has greater assumption to the creation of fire and explosions in process at the wood processing. We note in comparison with other sizes of wood particles, that the percentages are comparable.
Potential, Prices and Resources of Raw Wood Assortments for the Pulp and Paper Industry in Central Europe
Authors: Gejdoš Miloš , Suchomel Jozef
Published: April 2016

In the last decade the prices of wood in Slovakia were affected by the global economic crisis, rising intensity and extent of incidental felling and specific market conditions in SR. This paper analyses the shares of selected raw wood assortments supplies for the pulp and paper industry in Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Austria and Germany for the period 2008-2013. We also analyse the price trends of raw-wood assortments of the III.C class spruce, fir and beech saw-logs, pulpwood and firewood in selected countries of Austria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The analysed period represented the last 7 years (from 2008 - April 2015). The last part is devoted to evaluation of the potential of these assortments as a source of raw material for pulp and paper industry.
Influence of Chemical Treatment on Chemical Changes of Fir Wood
Authors: Tribulová Tereza , Kačík František , Evtuguin Dmitry V. , Čabalová Iveta
Published: April 2016

Many chemicals are used to prolong wood lifetime and protect wood against wood-destroying organisms and fire but there is not sufficient information about their possible corrosive effects on wood and its structural components from the perspective of long-term exposition in unsuitable condition. This study evaluated the combined effects of inorganic chemicals (borates, phosphates containing ammonia, sulphates with metal cations, chlorides) and wet-thermal accelerated ageing (T=80 °C, RH=65 %, for 30 days) on chemical composition of treated wood. Used analyses indicated that selected chemicals cause a decomposition of all wood constituents in varying degrees. Cellulose was degraded in the greatest extent due to acidic sulphates (Fe3+, Cu2+) and almost no deterioration of polysaccharides was caused with H3BO3. A negative effect on lignin had almost only Na2B4O7.10H2O and NaCl. At the same time the amount of extractives in hot water and acetone and ash content were compared at all samples. The wet-thermal ageing played an important role in wood degradation, but the effect of chemical treatment was certainly stronger.
Formation of Emission from Combustion of Biomass in Small Heat Source
Authors: Nosek Radovan , Holubcik Michal , Jandacka Jozef , Vician Peter
Published: April 2016

The fireplace combustion of wood is a significant and largely unregulated source of emission pollution. Therefore article deals about experimental measurements of emission parameters from combustion of biomass in small heat sources. The objectives of the present work are to analyse basic pollutants arising from the combustion process and to define measurement technique applied to characterise particle emissions from biomass combustion. Gravimetric methods are among the most accurate and precise methods of quantitative analysis and therefore was selected for measurement of solid emissions. Conclusion of work focus on evaluation of the tests results, especially concentration of particulate matter (PM) from the combustion of briquettes made from different kinds of biomass. During the combustion of certain briquettes was recorded a high amount of particulate matter and analyser switched to “stand by” mode in several cases. The results indicate that higher concentration of PM was determined in the case of briquettes made from phytomass in comparison to briquettes made of woody biomass.
Impact of some Deacidification Means on the Changes of Selected Properties of Pulp
Authors: Hájek Matěj , Milichovský Miloslav , Filipi Michaela , Mikala Ondřej
Published: April 2016

Deacidification is one of the basic restoration techniques to protect archival records stored in various depositories. This study examines the influence of selected deacidification aids on lignocellulose materials. Samples represent the commonly used pulps in the paper industry. These materials were treated with three deacidification methods in cooperation with National Archive in Prague. We monitored for changes as the optical, mechanical and chemical properties and changes on hypermolecular level. The results showed that the selected deacidification methods affect the surface-molecular and structural properties. The optical properties of the samples didn´t show any decrease of the ISO brightness and the colour coordinates L*a*b*. The values of surface pH were increased as expected. The mechanical properties of the samples was characterised by unitary stiffness, it was observed a significant sample stiffness decrease after treatment with the Bookkeeper and HERCO deacidification methods.
Utilization of Superplastic Materials as a Shock Absorber and a Shielding Device against High Speed Fragments
Authors: Zaid Adnan I.O. , Abu-Mallouh Riyad M. , Al-Matari Mustafa A.A.
Published: April 2016

In this paper, some of the failures and fractures caused by stress waves and shock waves resulting from impact and hypervelocity impact phenomena are presented and discussed. Furthermore, different designed and tested systems to protect the persons and the structural engineering members are also given and discussed. Finally, recent obtained experimental results are presented and discussed. The suggested design systems include alternative methods which include materials e.g. superplastic materials. The paper is expected to be of importance and value to military engineers, mining and design engineers and those involved in locomotive, automobile, aircraft and space vehicles industries.
Modification of Silica Gel by Heteropolyacids
Authors: Adetola Opeyemi , Golovko Leonid , Vasiliev Aleksey
Published: April 2016

Silica gels containing incorporated heteropolyacids (HPAs) were synthesized in acidic media by co-condensation of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) with phosphotungstic or phosphomolybdic acids using the sol-gel technique. The effect of the synthesis conditions on their structure and morphology was studied. Yields of modified materials were somewhat lower compared to non-modified silica gels. All materials were mesoporous but contained micropores in their structures. Presence of bands of Keggin’s structures in FT-IR spectra along with absence of XRD patterns of crystalline HPAs confirmed their fine incorporation into silica network. Particle sizes of modified materials were 500-1100 nm except for the W-containing sample obtained with trimethylstearylammonium chloride, which was significantly lower. This unusual effect was attributed to stabilization of primary silica nanoparticles by interactions between the surfactant and HPA. High ratio HPA/TEOS resulted in partial loss of porosity. Obtained results might be used for optimization of synthesis of effective catalysts and adsorbents containing HPAs in mesoporous structure.
Novel Bio-Based Composites Panels from TetraPak Waste
Authors: Hassanin Ahmed H. , Candan Zeki
Published: April 2016

Due to the significant and harmful effect of the global warming on our communities, health, and climate, the usage of sustainable, bio-based and green materials became an imperative. On the other hand, the utilization of waste and biomass resources for developing new bio based composite materials is attracting much attention for the environmental and socio economics. Therefore, in this study, bio based composite panels from TetraPack® waste were developed. To enhance the mechanical and physical performances of TetraPak panels, sandwich structures were constructed. Mechanical and physical tests results showed significant improvements due to using sandwich structure in compare to No-skin structure. By comparing the developed TetraPak sandwich panels with the standard commercial particleboard, significant improvements in both mechanical and physical performances have been clearly observed. Consequently, the developed biocomposite TetraPak panels can be used in a wide variety of applications. Finely, this can be contributing in reducing environment contaminating, meanwhile introduce cheap and suitable product for different technical fields.
Water Adsorption Properties of Free and Dehydrated β-Cyclodextrin Studied by near Infrared Spectroscopy and Gravimetry
Authors: Christy Alfred A.
Published: April 2016

β-cyclodextrin, like other carbohydrates has a tendency to adsorb water molecules and the properties are attributed to the hydroxyl groups in the molecules. β-cyclodextrin, the cyclic oligomer of glucose has a hydrophobic interior and hydrophilic exterior. The cyclic structure favours the formation of hydrogen bonds between the OH groups on the adjacent glucose units and affects the formation of hydrogen bonds with water molecules. The hydoxyl groups engaged in hydrogen bondings can be eliminated at high temperatures and the adsorption properties of the dehydrated β-cyclodextrin will depend on the new functional groups formed. The aim of the report is to discuss the issue of the water adsorption properties of free and dehydrated β-cyclodextrin. Dry β-cyclodextrin and dehydrated β-cyclodextrin at temperatures 250, 300 and 350 °C were allowed to adsorb water from a humidity controlled air environmennt and the evolving near infrared spectra were measured using a near infrared spectrometer equipped with a transflectance accessory. The near infrared spectra in the region 10,000-4000 cm-1 and their second and fourth derivative profiles were used in studying the variation in the adsorption characteristics of dehydrated β-cyclodextrin. The results of the analyses show that the adsorption of water by β-cyclodextrin decreses at 300 °C compared to 200 and 250 °C. Dehydration forms more of the ethereal type-O-bonds in the molecule and explains the decrease in the water molecular adsorption at higher dehydration temperatures.
Comparison between Addition of Titanium and Titanium Plus Boron to MgAZ31 on its Grain Size and its Mechanical Characteristics
Authors: Zaid Adnan I.O.
Published: April 2016

Magnesium and its alloys are the lightest constructional available materials on earth with a maximum density of 1.78 g /cc and melting point of 650 ͦC, with good damping characteristics. Therefore; they are alloyed or micro alloyed with other elements. In this paper comparison between the addition of Ti and Ti+ B to this alloy on its grain size and its mechanical characteristics is investigated both in the cast and after direct extrusion and the obtained results are presented and discussed.
Comparison between Mo Addition to Al Grain Refined by Ti and Ti+B on its Metallurgical and Mechanical Characteristics in the Cast and after ECAP Process Conditions
Authors: Al-Qawabah Safwan M.A. , Zaid Adnan I.O. , Qandil Ahmad
Published: April 2016

Aluminum and its alloys are widely used materials; they are next to steel in use mainly in the automobile industry due to their high strength – to – weight ratio and corrosion resistance beside its other attractive properties. Against their attractive properties; they have the disadvantage of solidifying in columnar structure which tends to reduce their mechanical characteristics and surface quality. Therefore it became customary to grain refine them either by Ti or Ti+B to overcome this discrepancy. In this paper, comparison between Molybdenum addition to commercially pure aluminum grain refined by Ti and Ti+B on its grain size and mechanical characteristics both in the cast and after pressing by the ECAP process is investigated and the obtained results are presented and discussed.
Damages Caused by Projectile Impact
Authors: Zaid Adnan I.O.
Published: April 2016

Impact conditions involve velocities below the sonic speed, which is normally of the order few hundreds up to few thousands m/s. The implications of impact depend on projectile and target materials, impact velocity, incident angle and the mass and shape of the projectile impacting head. The superimposition of progressing and reflected waves can lead to local stress levels that exceed the material’s strength, thus causing cracks and / or fracture at significant velocities. At low impact velocities, plastic deformation normally prevails. With increasing velocities the projectile will leave a hole in the target. With decreasing target thickness, the effects range from perforation, via internal cracks, and finally to plug formation. In this paper, the damages caused by impact which include: perforation, plugs formation and their fracture, metallurgical changes e.g. shear bands, twinning, recrystallization and phase transformation and fractures both in the projectile and the target plate are presented and discussed.
Dry Sliding Wear Behaviour of Polyamides by Taguchi Method
Authors: Şahin Y. , de Baets Patrick
Published: April 2016

Dry sliding wear behaviours of polyamides of were investigated by Taguchi method using a pin-on-flat plate configuration. L9 orthogonal array and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were applied to investigate the influence of process parameters on wear rate. The experimental results indicated that Signal-to-Noise ratio (SNR) decreased with increasing elongation and decreased with increasing load slightly, but increased with increasing speed. ANOVA revealed that elongation at break exerted a great effect on the wear rate, which was followed by speed, respectively. Optimal process parameter was obtained for LFX type of polymer against smooth hardened steel.
IDO2 Modulates T Cell–Dependent Autoimmune Responses through a B Cell–Intrinsic Mechanism
Authors: Merlo Lauren M. F. , DuHadaway James B. , Grabler Samantha , Prendergast George C. , Muller Alexander J. , Mandik-Nayak Laura
Published: April 2016

Mechanistic insight into how adaptive immune responses are modified along the self–nonself continuum may offer more effective opportunities to treat autoimmune disease, cancer, and other sterile inflammatory disorders. Recent genetic studies in the KRN mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis demonstrate that the immunomodulatory molecule IDO2 modifies responses to self-antigens; however, the mechanisms involved are obscure. In this study, we show that IDO2 exerts a critical function in B cells to support the generation of autoimmunity. In experiments with IDO2-deficient mice, adoptive transplant experiments demonstrated that IDO2 expression in B cells was both necessary and sufficient to support robust arthritis development. IDO2 function in B cells was contingent on a cognate, Ag-specific interaction to exert its immunomodulatory effects on arthritis development. We confirmed a similar requirement in an established model of contact hypersensitivity, in which IDO2-expressing B cells are required for a robust inflammatory response. Mechanistic investigations showed that IDO2-deficient B cells lacked the ability to upregulate the costimulatory marker CD40, suggesting IDO2 acts at the T–B cell interface to modulate the potency of T cell help needed to promote autoantibody production. Overall, our findings revealed that IDO2 expression by B cells modulates autoimmune responses by supporting the cross talk between autoreactive T and B cells.
Cultural Respect Encompassing Simulation Training: Being Heard about Health through Broadband
Authors: Min-Yu Lau Phyllis , Woodward-Kron Robyn , Livesay Karen , Elliott Kristine , Nicholson Patricia
Published: April 2016

Background

Cultural Respect Encompassing Simulation Training (CREST) is a learning program that uses simulation to provide health professional students and practitioners with strategies to communicate sensitively with culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) patients. It consists of training modules with a cultural competency evaluation framework and CALD simulated patients to interact with trainees in immersive simulation scenarios. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility of expanding the delivery of CREST to rural Australia using live video streaming; and to investigate the fidelity of cultural sensitivity – defined within the process of cultural competency which includes awareness, knowledge, skills, encounters and desire – of the streamed simulations.

Design and Methods

In this mixed-methods evaluative study, health professional trainees were recruited at three rural academic campuses and one rural hospital to pilot CREST sessions via live video streaming and simulation from the city campus in 2014. Cultural competency, teaching and learning evaluations were conducted.

Results

Forty-five participants rated 26 reliable items before and after each session and reported statistically significant improvement in 4 of 5 cultural competency domains, particularly in cultural skills (P<0.05). Qualitative data indicated an overall acknowledgement amongst participants of the importance of communication training and the quality of the simulation training provided remotely by CREST.

Conclusions

Cultural sensitivity education using live video-streaming and simulation can contribute to health professionals’ learning and is effective in improving cultural competency. CREST has the potential to be embedded within health professional curricula across Australian universities to address issues of health inequalities arising from a lack of cultural sensitivity training.
Health Professional Workforce Education in the Asia Pacific
Authors: Lees Jessica , Webb Gillian , Coulston Frances , Smart Aidan , Remedios Louisa
Published: April 2016

Objective

To design and implement an international and interprofessional Global Learning Partnership Model, which involves shared learning between academics and students from Universitas 21 network with other universities with United Nations Millennium Development Goal needs.

Design

Two literature reviews were conducted to inform ethical aspects and curriculum design of the GLP model. Feedback from conference presentations and consultation with experts in education and public health has been incorporated to inform the current iteration of the GLP model.

Intervention

The pilot group of 25 students from U21 universities and Kathmandu University, representing six health disciplines will meet in Nepal in April 2016 for a shared learning experience, including a one week university based workshop and three week community based experience.

Outcome measures

A multi-phase, mixed method design was selected for the evaluation of the GLP model, utilising a combination of focus groups and questionnaires to evaluate the efficacy of the placement through student experience and learning outcomes in cultural competency, UN SDG knowledge, community engagement and health promotion skills.

Results

The literature review demonstrated that cultural awareness and cultural knowledge were improved through participation in cultural immersion programs that incorporated preparatory workshops and clinical experiences. Data will be gathered in April 2006 and the results of the evaluation will be published in the future.

Conclusions

The GLP model proposes a project around the fundamental concept of engagement and sharing between students and academics across universities and cultural contexts to build capacity through education, while capitalising on strengths of existing global health placements. Further the inclusion of host-country students and academics in this learning exchange will promote the establishment of an international and interprofessional network for ongoing health promotion.
Public Health Platforms: An Emerging Informatics Approach to Health Professional Learning and Development
Authors: Gray Kathleen
Published: April 2016

Health informatics has a major role to play in optimising the management and use of data, information and knowledge in health systems. As health systems undergo digital transformation, it is important to consider informatics approaches not only to curriculum content but also to the design of learning environments and learning activities for health professional learning and development. An example of such an informatics approach is the use of large-scale, integrated public health platforms on the Internet as part of health professional learning and development. This article describes selected examples of such platforms, with a focus on how they may influence the direction of health professional learning and development.
A Community Engaged Dental Curriculum: A Rural Indigenous Outplacement Programme
Authors: Abuzar Menaka A. , Owen Julie
Published: April 2016

Background

Indigenous people worldwide suffer from poor oral health as compared to non-Indigenous citizens. One of the approaches to bring about improvement in Indigenous oral health is to enhance the service provision by implementing oral health outplacement programmes. A case study of such a programme for dental students in Australia reports how an educational institution can successfully engage with an Indigenous oral health service to provide learning experiences to the students as well as deliver much needed services to the community.

Design and Methods

The assessment of this ongoing outplacement programme over the period of 2008-14, based on students’ feedback, highlights some of the key beneficial outcomes. Students agreed that the Indigenous outplacement programme improved their understanding of Indigenous issues (mean ± SD: 4.10±0.8; 5 refers to strongly agree on 5-point scale) and increased the possibility that they will practise in Indigenous health (3.66±1.0). They were pleased with the assistance received by clinical supervisors and clinic staff at the Indigenous dental clinic (4.28±0.8).

Conclusions

This programme has demonstrated that structured student outplacements are valuable in building relations across cultures especially with Indigenous communities. It has also shown that university engagement with the public health sector can be beneficial to both institutions.
Learning about Self: Leadership Skills for Public Health
Authors: Moodie Rob
Published: April 2016

As public health practitioners and as clinicians we are taught to care for our patients, and for our community members. But how much do we teach and learn about how to lead, manage and care for our colleagues, our team members and ourselves? This paper emphasizes the need for leadership learning and teaching to become an essential element of the practice of public health. The paper presents the author's perspective on the leadership skills required for public health and describes a five-day intensive course designed to enable participants to develop these skills over time. The paper briefly covers leadership definitions, styles and types and key leadership skills. It mainly focuses on the design and ethos of the course, skills self-assessment, group interaction and methods for developing and refining leadership skills. The course uses a collaborative learning approach where the power differential between teachers, facilitators, guests and participants is minimized. It is based on creating an environment where any participant can reveal his or her stories, successes, failures, preferences and dislikes in a safe manner. It encourages continual, constructive individual reflection, self-assessment and group interaction. The course is aimed at the practice of public health leadership, with a particular emphasis on the leadership of self, of knowing oneself, and of knowing and understanding colleagues retrospectively as well as prospectively. The most important outcome is the design and implementation of participants’ own plans for developing and nurturing their leadership skills.
The Port Alfred floods of 17–23 October 2012: A case of disaster (mis)management?
Authors: Pyle Desmond M. , Jacobs Tennielle L.
Published: April 2016

An intense cut-off low weather system, more commonly known regionally as a ‘black southeaster’, caused severe flooding in Port Alfred and the surrounding coastal areas from 17 to 23 October 2012. Unconfirmed reports of up to 700 mm of rainfall for the period were recorded. Damage caused by the flooding was estimated at R500 million. Eight deaths were recorded. The poorly maintained and ageing infrastructure and storm water systems could not withstand the floodwaters, and as a result, damage was worse than it should have been. Many houses, particularly in the surrounding townships and informal settlements, were destroyed. Disease threats arose, including cholera, diarrhoea and influenza. The South African Weather Service issued weather warnings of severe local flooding in the coastal areas of the Eastern Cape a few days before the flood event. Unfortunately, there was a delay in communicating the severe weather warning effectively to the public, relevant authorities and role-players by local disaster management officials. In addition, there was poor and ineffective local coordination of disaster response and relief efforts. This paper examines the 2012 flood event from both meteorological and disaster management perspectives, using a combined qualitative and quantitative research approach. Findings point to a critical lack of coordination amongst the various role-players before, during and after the disaster. Recommendations for improved proactive and coordinated disaster risk management and disaster risk reduction for the region are made.Keywords: Port Alfred; cut-off lows; floods; disaster management; disaster risk reduction; early warning
HIV-positive patients’ perceptions of care received at a selected antiretroviral therapy clinic in Vhembe district, South Africa
Authors: Ndou Tshifhiwa V. , Maputle Sonto M. , Risenga Patrone R.
Published: April 2016

Background: Patients’ experiences are a reflection of what has happened during the care process and, therefore, provide information about the performance of health care professional workers. They refer to the process of care provision at the antiretroviral therapy (ART) sites.Aim and setting: This article explored the perceptions of HIV-positive patients of care received at the Gateway Clinic of the regional hospital that provides antiretroviral treatment in the Vhembe district.Methods: A qualitative, explorative and descriptive design was used. A non-probability, convenient sampling method was used to select 20 HIV-positive patients who were above 18 years of age. In-depth individual interviews were used to collect data. Data were analysed through Tech’s open coding method.Results: One theme and two sub-themes emerged, namely positive experiences related to the environment and attitudes of health professionals, and negative experiences concerning the practices by health care providers.Conclusion: Patients’ perceptions of quality of, and satisfaction with, health care may affect health outcomes. Recommendations are made to consider, practice and strengthen the protocols, the standard operating procedures and the principles of infection control in the health facilities.Keywords: Human Immunodeficiecy Virus, Antiretroviral Treatment, HIV positive, Limpopo
Evaluation of the effect of three supplementary oral hygiene measures on salivary mutans streptococci levels in children: A randomized comparative clinical trial
Authors: Manju M. , Prathyusha P. , Joseph Elizabeth , Kaul Rupali Borkar , Shanthraj Srinivas L. , Sethi Ntasha
Published: April 2016

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effect of tongue scraping, tongue brushing, and saturated saline on salivary MS levels. Materials and Methods: A single-blinded, randomized, parallel group clinical trial was conducted in children aged 9–12 years. Total sample of 45 subjects were randomly assigned to three groups, that is, Group A, Group B, and Group C comprised of 15 each. Group A, Group B, and Group C were asked to do tongue scraping, tongue brushing and saturated saline rinsing twice daily, respectively for 21 days. Saliva samples, collected from the subjects on the baseline, 7th day and 21st day, were inoculated on mitis salivarius bacitracin agar and incubated at 37°C for 48 h. The mean streptococcal colony forming counts were enumerated. The data were subjected to statistical analysis using Wilcoxon signed rank sum test for intragroup comparisons and Mann–Whitney U-test for intergroup comparisons. Results: Intragroup comparisons showed statistically significant reduction in MS levels (P < 0.01). However, the intergroup comparisons showed no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The oral hygiene measures evaluated proved equal efficacy in reducing the colony counts. Hence, there is a need to emphasize the importance of incorporating supplementary oral hygiene measures in daily oral care.
Localized idiopathic root resorption in the primary dentition: Review of the literature and a case report
Authors: Nasehi Atefeh , Mazhari Fatemeh , Mohtasham Nooshin
Published: April 2016

Idiopathic root resorption (IRR) is an infrequent condition that is usually found as an accidental finding on radiography. A significant number of cases of IRR in permanent dentition have been presented but are rarely reported in primary dentition. The aim of this case report is to present a case of localized IRR in a 7-year-old boy. The patient was referred because of increased mobility of the left mandibular primary second molar. On radiographic evaluation, severe root resorption of that tooth, and mild root resorption of the right mandibular primary second molar were evident; the patient was caries-free. The left affected tooth was lost, and after placing a band and loop space maintainer, the patient was followed for 18 months. A patient with an abnormal pattern of root resorption, especially in the primary dentition, should alert the clinician to rule out the known important local and systemic factors. The exact causes of and treatments for IRR continue to be discovered.
Groups acting on trees with almost prescribed local action
Authors: Le Boudec Adrien
Published: April 2016

We investigate a family of groups acting on a regular tree, defined by prescribing the local action almost everywhere. We study lattices in these groups and give examples of compactly generated simple groups of finite asymptotic dimension (actually one) not containing lattices. We also obtain examples of simple groups with simple lattices, and we prove the existence of (infinitely many) finitely generated simple groups of asymptotic dimension one. We also prove various properties of these groups, including the existence of a proper action on a CAT(0) cube complex.
$C^r$-density of (non-uniform) hyperbolicity in partially hyperbolic symplectic diffeomorphisms
Authors: Marin Karina
Published: April 2016

We use the Invariance Principle of Avila and Viana to prove that every partially hyperbolic symplectic diffeomorphism with 2-dimensional center bundle, having a periodic point and satisfying certain pinching and bunching conditions, can be

C^r

-approximated by non-uniformly hyperbolic diffeomorphisms.
Differential Role of Leptin as an Immunomodulator in Controlling Visceral Leishmaniasis in Normal and Leptin-Deficient Mice
Authors: Maurya Radheshyam , Bhattacharya Parna , Ismail Nevien , Dagur Pradeep K. , Joshi Amritanshu B. , Razdan Kundan , McCoy J. Philip , Ascher Jill , Dey Ranadhir , Nakhasi Hira L.
Published: April 2016

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani. There are no vaccines and available drugs against leishmaniasis are toxic. Immunomodulators that specifically boost the anti-microbial activities of the immune cells could alleviate several of these limitations. Therefore, finding novel immunomodulators for VL therapy is a pressing need. This study is aimed to evaluate the immunomodulatory role of leptin, an adipocyte-derived hormone capable of regulating the immune response, in L. donovani-infected mice. We observed that recombinant leptin treatment reduced splenic parasite burden compared with non-treated infected normal mice. Decrease in parasite burden correlated with an induction of innate immune response in antigen-presenting cells that showed an increase in nitric oxide, enhanced pro-inflammatory cytokine (interferon gamma [IFNγ], interleukin12 [IL]12, and IL1β) response in the splenocytes, indicating host-protecting Th1 response mediated by leptin. Moreover, in infected normal mice, leptin treatment induced IFNγ production from both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, compared with non-treated infected mice. Alternatively, leptin-deficient (Ob/Ob) mice had higher splenic and liver parasite burden compared with the infected normal mice. However, leptin treatment failed to reduce the splenic parasite burden and improve a host-protective cytokine response in these mice. In addition, in contrast to dendritic cells (DCs) from a normal mouse, Ob/Ob mouse–derived DCs showed a defect in the induction of innate immune response on Leishmania infection that could not be reversed by leptin treatment. Therefore, our findings reveal that leptin has a differential immunomodulatory effect in controlling VL in normal and Ob/Ob mice.