bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study on secondary school students' problem solving strategies
Authors: Gür Hülya , Hangül Tuğba
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study is to determine 6th grade students' use of problem solving strategies and difficulties that they have in this process. This research has been done by the help of the 12 6th grade public school students who were attending a public school in the 2012- 2013 academic year. The data collection tools for the research consisted of problem tests, including 7 problems which have taken from PISA and some mathematics websites. Each problem was chosen involving only a single strategy. The obtained data was analyzed utilizing descriptive analysis and descriptive statistics. According to the results of the study, all of the students who participated in the study solve the problems about "Look for a Pattern, Start at the End, Use an Equation and Make an Organized List" strategies. Two students could not solve problems including "Draw a Diagram and Divide and Conquer" strategies. Also, three students could not solve the problem about "Guess and Check". In addition, findings of this study show that some texts of problems are long and complex for students. On the other hand, students had some difficulties when they used the strategy of "Guess and Check" and they spent a lot of time on the problem about "Divide and Conquer".
Apuração de Haveres de Sócio: O Caso de uma Empresa do Comércio Varejista da Grande Florianópolis
Authors: Silva Bianka Marques da , Santos Nivaldo João dos
Published: November 2014

A avaliação de empresas, com o fim de determinar valor de haveres de sócio, decorre, principalmente, do exercício do direito de retirada, da exclusão e do falecimento. Quando não há consenso de procedimentos e valores entre os sócios, tal atividade é realizada em âmbito judicial, surgindo a necessidade de um profissional avaliador para calcular o valor da quota de capital do sócio retirante. O objetivo deste trabalho é determinar o valor da participação societária e de outros haveres, com enfoque econômico, contemplando tanto o valor dos ativos materiais da empresa quanto o valor dos bens intangíveis criados, com exposição do caso de uma empresa do ramo varejista de vestuário. A revisão bibliográfica tomou como base os artigos disponibilizados nos sítios eletrônicos de eventos e periódicos do portal da CAPES, contemplando o período de 2000 a 2011. Os dados do estudo de caso em tela foram extraídos das demonstrações contábeis fornecidas pela Empresa Beta Ltda. Os resultados revelaram que a empresa tem capacidade para gerar caixa futuro em mais de R$ 20 milhões, o seu valor econômico superou R$ 24 milhões, com goodwill de R$ 8 milhões, e o valor unitário da quota de capital, que originalmente era R$ 10,00, após avaliação, alcançou R$ 2.073,60.
O Ensino de Empreendedorismo nos Cursos de Graduação em Ciências Contábeis
Authors: Matias Márcia Athayde , Colares Ana Carolina Vasconcelos , Rocha Paulo Márcio , Carvalho Junior Luiz Ernani de
Published: November 2014

Constata-se, atualmente, que o empreendedorismo tem tido uma importância cada vez mais crescente no mundo, em virtude das inúmeras mudanças que vêm ocorrendo, principalmente nas relações de trabalho. Vários países têm realizado ações no sentido de incluir o ensino de empreendedorismo em suas estruturas curriculares dos ensinos básico e superior cientes de que o empreendedor é um dos elementos que proporcionam condições de elevação de emprego e renda. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste estudo foi o de identificar se a cultura de empreendedorismo é praticada nos cursos de graduação em ciências contábeis nas principais instituições de ensino superior do Brasil, tendo como foco as universidades federais. A pesquisa caracteriza-se como descritiva e qualitativa. A amostra analisada envolveu vinte e sete instituições federais. Cada uma delas representa uma unidade da federação. Como resultado, ficou evidenciado que o tema do empreendedorismo está presente de forma ainda muito incipiente nos projetos pedagógicos das instituições pesquisadas, mas que há uma tendência em direção à implementação em suas grades curriculares. Conclui-se, por fim, pela necessidade de maior estudo, conscientização e difusão do empreendedorismo por parte das instituições públicas de ensino superior para os cursos de ciências contábeis, no sentido de incentivar a classe contábil a desenvolver o potencial que possui no apoio aos empresários e desenvolvimento do país.
Preparation and characterization of monoclonal antibodies against ES antigens of Trichinella spiralis
Authors: Cui J. , Jing F. , Fu G. , Ren H. , Liu L. , Wang Z.
Published: November 2014

Hybridomas secreting monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against excretory-secretory (ES) antigen of Trichinella spiralis muscle larvae were produced. The 12 monoclones (designated 3A11, 7D9, 7F6, 5A7, 6H7, 39F3, 38H2, 37E7, 35B9, 29A11, 39C9 and 39A6) secreted IgM, IgG3 and IgG2b, respectively. Western blot using T. spiralis ES antigens showed that ten of 12 MAbs recognized the bands between 119.8 − 19.3kDa (mainly 68.4 − 28.7kDa) and two MAbs (3A11, 37E7) did not recognize any protein constituents of ES antigens. Nine of 12 MAbs also recognized the larval antigens of T. nativa, T. pseudospiralis and T. nelsoni at 40 days post-infection (dpi). No cross-reactions were found with the somatic antigens of adult worms of P. westermani, C. sinensis, and T. solium cysticercus. However, three (3A11, 6H7 and 39A6) were cross-reacted with the somatic antigens of adult worms of S. japonicum. Immunofluorescent location showed that the nine MAbs reacted with the cuticle and internal organs of T. spiralis larvae. Additionally, five and eight MAbs generated in this study can recognize the early antigens of pre-encapsulated T. spiralis larvae at 11 dpi and 13 dpi, respectively. The generation and characterization of the MAbs against T. spiralis ES antigens provide foundation for the development of specific early serodiagnostic techniques for trichinellosis.
Molecular detection of E. granulosus sheep strain (G1) infections in naturally infected dogs in Punjab (India)
Authors: Singh B. , Sharma R. , Sharma J. , Singh Gill J.
Published: November 2014

Echinococcosis is a preventable but neglected zoonosis in India. Although the disease in domestic animals is usually asymptomatic, huge economic losses have been reported due to cystic echinococcosis in livestock in India. The molecular characterization of Echinococcus from dog populations has not been previously carried out in Punjab (India). A total of 237 pet and stray dog faecal samples were collected and examined for the presence of eggs of the Taeniidae family in Punjab (India). A 255 base pair fragment of the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene was amplified and the presence of sheep strain (G1) of E. granulosus has been reported. We detected eggs of the Taeniidae family in 2.11 per cent of the faecal samples. High prevalence was recorded in stray dogs (9.52 %) living near slaughter shops/post mortem areas. The prevalence of E. granulosus sheep strain (G1) using PCR was found to be 0.84 per cent in naturally infected dogs. This is the first study confirming the presence of E. granulosus (G1) sheep strain in dogs in Punjab (India). The results reveal the presence of sheep strain of E. granulosus and demand implementation of Animal Birth Control programme so as to control the stray dog population of the country.
Pratylenchus brachyurus (Nematoda: Pratylenchidae) in Guariroba in the state of Goiás, Brazil
Authors: De Araújo Filho J. , Castro-Moretti F. , Bonfim Junior M.
Published: November 2014

Roots of Syagrus oleracea were collected in two growing areas in the municipality of Rio Verde, state of Goiás (Brazil). Morphological, morphometric and molecular (ITS1 sequences) approaches allowed us to identify the infecting nematode as Pratylenchus brachyurus. To our knowledge, this is the first record of P. brachyurus parasitizing guariroba elsewhere (new host).
High-Order Entropy Compressed Bit Vectors with Rank/Select
Authors: Beskers Kai , Fischer Johannes
Published: November 2014

We design practical implementations of data structures for compressing bit-vectors to support efficient rank-queries (counting the number of ones up to a given point). Unlike previous approaches, which either store the bit vectors plainly, or focus on compressing bit-vectors with low densities of ones or zeros, we aim at low entropies of higher order, for example 101010...10. Our implementations achieve very good compression ratios, while showing only a modest increase in query time.
Electrical Wiring of the Aldehyde Oxidoreductase PaoABC with a Polymer Containing Osmium Redox Centers: Biosensors for Benzaldehyde and GABA
Authors: Badalyan Artavazd , Dierich Marlen , Stiba Konstanze , Schwuchow Viola , Leimkühler Silke , Wollenberger Ulla
Published: November 2014

Biosensors for the detection of benzaldehyde and g-aminobutyric acid (GABA) are reported using aldehyde oxidoreductase PaoABC from Escherichia coli immobilized in a polymer containing bound low potential osmium redox complexes. The electrically connected enzyme already electrooxidizes benzaldehyde at potentials below −0.15 V (vs. Ag|AgCl, 1 M KCl). The pH-dependence of benzaldehyde oxidation can be strongly influenced by the ionic strength. The effect is similar with the soluble osmium redox complex and therefore indicates a clear electrostatic effect on the bioelectrocatalytic efficiency of PaoABC in the osmium containing redox polymer. At lower ionic strength, the pH-optimum is high and can be switched to low pH-values at high ionic strength. This offers biosensing at high and low pH-values. A “reagentless” biosensor has been formed with enzyme wired onto a screen-printed electrode in a flow cell device. The response time to addition of benzaldehyde is 30 s, and the measuring range is between 10–150 µM and the detection limit of 5 µM (signal to noise ratio 3:1) of benzaldehyde. The relative standard deviation in a series (n = 13) for 200 µM benzaldehyde is 1.9%. For the biosensor, a response to succinic semialdehyde was also identified. Based on this response and the ability to work at high pH a biosensor for GABA is proposed by coimmobilizing GABA-aminotransferase (GABA-T) and PaoABC in the osmium containing redox polymer.
Antioxidant and Anticancer Aporphine Alkaloids from the Leaves of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. cv. Rosa-plena
Authors: Liu Chi-Ming , Kao Chiu-Li , Wu Hui-Ming , Li Wei-Jen , Huang Cheng-Tsung , Li Hsing-Tan , Chen Chung-Yi
Published: November 2014

Fifteen compounds were extracted and purified from the leaves of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. cv. Rosa-plena. These compounds include liriodenine (1), lysicamine (2), (−)-anonaine (3), (−)-asimilobine (4), (−)-caaverine (5), (−)-N-methylasimilobine (6), (−)-nuciferine (7), (−)-nornuciferine (8), (−)-roemerine (9), 7-hydroxydehydronuciferine (10) cepharadione B (11), β-sitostenone (12), stigmasta-4,22-dien-3-one (13) and two chlorophylls: pheophytin-a (14) and aristophyll-C (15). The anti-oxidation activity of the compounds was examined by antiradical scavenging, metal chelating and ferric reducing power assays. The results have shown that these compounds have antioxidative activity. The study has also examined the antiproliferation activity of the isolated compounds against human melanoma, prostate and gastric cancer cells. The results shown that 7-hydroxydehydronuciferine (10) significantly inhibited the proliferation of melanoma, prostate and gastric cancer cells. Together, these findings suggest that leaves of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. cv. Rosa-plena are a good resource for obtaining the biologically active substances with antioxidant properties.
The Anti-Proliferative Effects of Enterolactone in Prostate Cancer Cells: Evidence for the Role of DNA Licencing Genes, mi-R106b Cluster Expression, and PTEN Dosage
Authors: McCann Mark , Rowland Ian , Roy Nicole
Published: November 2014

The mammalian lignan, enterolactone, has been shown to reduce the proliferation of the earlier stages of prostate cancer at physiological concentrations in vitro. However, efficacy in the later stages of the disease occurs at concentrations difficult to achieve through dietary modification. We have therefore investigated what concentration(s) of enterolactone can restrict proliferation in multiple stages of prostate cancer using an in vitro model system of prostate disease. We determined that enterolactone at 20 μM significantly restricted the proliferation of mid and late stage models of prostate disease. These effects were strongly associated with changes in the expression of the DNA licencing genes (GMNN, CDT1, MCM2 and 7), in reduced expression of the miR-106b cluster (miR-106b, miR-93, and miR-25), and in increased expression of the PTEN tumour suppressor gene. We have shown anti-proliferative effects of enterolactone in earlier stages of prostate disease than previously reported and that these effects are mediated, in part, by microRNA-mediated regulation.
Factor Analysis of Residential Energy Consumption at the Provincial Level in China
Authors: Lin Weibin , Chen Bin , Luo Shichao , Liang Li
Published: November 2014

This paper analyzes the differences in the amount and the structure of residential energy consumption at the provincial level in China and identifies the hidden factors behind such differences. The econometrical analysis reveals that population, economic development level, energy resource endowment and climatic conditions are the main factors driving residential energy consumption; while the regional differences in energy consumption per capita and the consumption structure can be mainly illustrated by various economic development levels, energy resource endowments and climatic conditions. Economic development level has a significant positive impact on the proportion of gasoline consumption, whereas its impact on the proportion of electricity consumption is not notable; energy resource endowment and climatic condition indirectly affect both the proportion of electricity consumption and that of gasoline consumption, primarily through their impacts on the proportions of coal consumption and heat consumption.
Developing Positive Deviants as Change Agents
Authors: Bleich Michael R.
Published: November 2014

In nearly every quagmire, one or more individuals surpass the issue being faced. Knowledge gained from these positive deviants—who fall outside the norm—leads to a six-step approach to problem solving that is fundamentally different than reductionistic approaches. Professional development educators can train leaders to this technique.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2014;45(11):482–483.
Modelling, Simulation, and Analysis for Enterprise Architecture
Authors: Clark Tony , Barn Balbir , Kulkarni Vinay
Published: November 2014

Modern organizations need to address increasingly complex challenges including how to represent and maintain their business goals using technologies and IT platforms that change on a regular basis. This has led to the development of modelling notations for expressing various aspects of an organization with a view to reducing complexity, increasing technology independence, and supporting analysis. Many of these Enterprise Architecture (EA) modelling notations provide a large number of concepts that support the business analysis but lack precise definitions necessary to perform computer-supported organizational analysis. This chapter reviews the current EA modelling landscape and proposes a simple language for the practical support of EA simulation including business alignment in terms of executing a collection of goals against prototype execution.
Developing Software with Domain-Driven Model Reuse
Authors: Kalnins Audris , Straszak Tomasz , Śmiałek Michał , Kalnina Elina , Celms Edgars , Nowakowski Wiktor
Published: November 2014

This chapter presents an approach to software development where model-driven development and software reuse facilities are combined in a natural way. It shows how model transformations building a Platform Independent Model (PIM) can be applied directly to the requirements specified in RSL by domain experts. Further development of the software case (PSM, code) is also supported by transformations, which in addition ensure a rich traceability within the software case. Alternatively, the PSM model and code can also be generated directly from requirements in RSL, thus providing fast development of the final code of at least a system prototype in many situations. The reuse support relies on a similarity-based comparison of requirements for software cases. If a similar part is found in an existing software case, a traceability link-based slice of the solution can be merged into the new case. The implementation of the approach is briefly sketched.
High-Integrity Model-Based Development
Authors: Lano K. , Kolahdouz-Rahimi S.
Published: November 2014

Model-Based Development (MBD) has become increasingly used for critical systems, and it is the subject of the MBDV supplement to the DO-178C standard. In this chapter, the authors review the requirements of DO-178C for model-based development, and they identify ways in which MBD can be combined with formal verification to achieve DO-178C requirements for traceability and verifiability of models. In particular, the authors consider the implications for model transformations, which are a central part of MBD approaches, and they identify how transformations can be verified using formal methods tools.
Multichannel Service Delivery Architecture
Authors: Duran Randall E. , Duc Do Anh
Published: November 2014

System architectures that deliver real-time services to customers must be flexible, scalable, and support a wide range of communication channels. This chapter presents an architecture that was designed to support multiple delivery channels and was successfully used to implement mobile banking services. The considerations behind the design and the approach used to deliver SMS-based mobile services using service-oriented architecture principles are reviewed and some of the practical challenges that were encountered with the implementation are explored. The ability for this solution architecture to support other real-time service channels is also examined.
Autonomous Execution of Reliable Sensor Network Applications on Varying Node Hardware
Authors: Ortmann Steffen , Langendoerfer Peter
Published: November 2014

The authors present a user-centric design flow for ease of use for specifying Wireless Sensor Network applications even for heterogeneous hardware. The design flow provides very high abstraction and user guidance to refrain the user from implementation, deployment, and hardware details including heterogeneity of the available sensor nodes. Automatic event configuration is accomplished by using a flexible Event Specification Language (ESL) and Event Decision Trees (EDTs) for distributed detection and determination of real world phenomena. EDTs autonomously adapt to heterogeneous availability of sensing capabilities by pruning and subscription to other nodes for missing information. The authors analyze the approaches in theory and praxis. They present two of numerous simulated scenarios proving the robustness and energy efficiency of the approach while having learnt appropriate configuration properties that are required for correct sensing. They can deal with failing sensors despite performing pretty well in terms of accuracy and number of messages exchanged.
The Caribbean's Response to Climate Change Impacts
Authors: Maximay Steve
Published: November 2014

To fully appreciate climate change impacts and adaptations in the Caribbean, several aspects of the phenomenon and the region's response must be placed in historical and chronological sequence. This chapter starts with a review of the Caribbean islands, focusing on the agricultural sector and its vulnerability to climate change impacts. It then provides a brief review of the Caribbean's foray into organized planning for climate change; the early advocacy of those who believed the issue was a serious threat to the region, and the projects that were developed. It also traces organized institutional level responses, some national efforts, and the degree to which climate change issues have now become part of the routine agricultural development discourse. An overview of the possible climate change impacts and the programmed adaptations at a regional level are presented, and the chapter ends with a look at the importance of communication to raise awareness and ultimately change behaviours.
Adaptation to Impacts of Climate Change on the Food and Nutrition Security Status of a Small Island Developing State
Authors: Moustache Antoine Marie
Published: November 2014

More frequent extreme weather events, foreseen with climate change, will impact severely on the agricultural and fisheries production systems of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) such as the Seychelles Islands. Understanding the impacts on agricultural production and coastal fisheries is important to plan adaptation measures for sustainable development, particularly for national food and nutrition security. This chapter addresses some impacts on soil systems in Seychelles: the main cultivation medium. It proposes soil management and conservation practices, and adaptation measures relevant to farm structures and homes to counter these impacts. It addresses alien invasive species and their impacts on food production systems along with coastal fisheries. In conclusion, it urges the implementation of simple, cost-effective adaptation measures to counter these threats.
Farming Adaptations to the Impacts of Climate Change and Extreme Events in Pacific Island Countries
Authors: Iese Viliamu , Maeke Joseph , Holland Elisabeth , Wairiu Morgan , Naidu Sumeet
Published: November 2014

Farmers in Pacific Islands' communities are considered to be most vulnerable to the impacts of increased temperature, sea-level rise, droughts, cyclones, and heavy rainfall. Farmers living on a raised atoll in the Solomon Islands (Bellona) were interviewed to understand their perceptions and experiences on the impacts of climate change and extreme events on their crops. Some examples of damage and impacts according to the farmers included rotting of roots, damage to leaves and branches, and destruction of fruits and valuable yields. Interviews also revealed that the ability of farmers to recover after disasters was dependent on their pre-disaster conditions, number and varieties of crops they had planted, type of cropping system in use, and consistent use of simple, traditional, and innovative adaptive techniques. Such techniques included crop rotation, change of planting and harvesting dates, and the planting of new resilient varieties.
A Kaleidoscope of Variables
Authors: Friend Christopher , Morris Sean Michael , Stommel Jesse
Published: November 2014

The relationship between composition courses and online education is complicated, and attempting to summarize that relationship in a blanket statement may be feeble or futile. As a field, composition faces the challenge of identifying best practices in online education at the same time that it struggles to identify standardized content for its courses. Assessment challenges also plague online composition courses. While other fields might assess student work with standardized methods or computerized scoring, the work of composition requires tedious and labor-intensive assessment methods difficult to delegate to software; indeed, a recent petition illustrates significant instructor opposition to computer scoring (Haswell & Wilson, 2013). This chapter illustrates the current state of challenging conversations within composition studies as a kaleidoscope of positions in which instructors using online education position themselves.
How Do They Fare?
Authors: Komarnicki Janet Kuser , Qian Yufeng
Published: November 2014

Blended learning is proliferating rapidly in higher education across the United States. However, this learning environment may pose new challenges to learners at moderately selective colleges who are normally found to be low in autonomy. A quasi-experimental study was conducted to examine the learning achievement and course satisfaction of this group of learners in two sections of a course, with one being blended and the other a face-to-face. The results, shown in this chapter, reveal that instructional mode does not have a significant effect on learning achievement and course satisfaction; however, a further examination into the course structure, dialogue, and learner autonomy suggests that low structure and high dialogue can help reduce transactional distance and a synchronous format for the online component in a blended course is highly recommended. In addition, coaching and scaffolding learner autonomy is indispensible for learners at moderately selective colleges and should be considered in the design and implementation of online learning.
An Integrated Risk Management Framework
Authors: Thalmann Stefan , Manhart Markus , Ceravolo Paolo , Azzini Antonia
Published: November 2014

Organizational risk management should not only rely on protecting data and information but also on protecting knowledge which is underdeveloped in many cases or measures are applied in an uncoordinated, dispersed way. Therefore, we propose a consistent top-down translation from the organizational risk management goals to implemented controls to overcome these shortcomings. Our approach adopted from the domain of IT security management allows to measure how well knowledge protection is actually pursued in organizations. This affects organizations' abilities to prove compliance to risk management standards, laws, guidelines, or frameworks and creates transparency throughout the whole knowledge protection processes. After introducing our integrated risk management framework, we demonstrate how the technical part of the framework can be implemented by using process mining in a case study of an Italian aerospace company.
Building local human resources to implement SLMTA with limited donor funding: The Ghana experience
Authors: Nkrumah Bernard , Van der Puije Beatrice , Bekoe Veronica , Adukpo Rowland , Kotey Nii A. , Yao Katy , Fonjungo Peter N. , Luman Elizabeth T. , Duh Samuel , Njukeng Patrick A. , Addo Nii A. , Khan Fazle N. , Woodfill Celia J.I.
Published: November 2014

Background: In 2009, Ghana adopted the Strengthening Laboratory Management Toward Accreditation (SLMTA) programme in order to improve laboratory quality. The programme was implemented successfully with limited donor funding and local human resources.Objectives: To demonstrate how Ghana, which received very limited PEPFAR funding, was able to achieve marked quality improvement using local human resources.Method: Local partners led the SLMTA implementation and local mentors were embedded in each laboratory. An in-country training-of-trainers workshop was conducted in order to increase the pool of local SLMTA implementers. Three laboratory cohorts were enrolled in SLMTA in 2011, 2012 and 2013. Participants from each cohort attended in a series of three workshops interspersed with improvement projects and mentorship. Supplemental trainingon internal audit was provided. Baseline, exit and follow-up audits were conducted using the Stepwise Laboratory Quality Improvement Process Towards Accreditation (SLIPTA) checklist. In November 2013, four laboratories underwent official SLIPTA audits by the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM).Results: The local SLMTA team successfully implemented three cohorts of SLMTA in 15 laboratories. Seven out of the nine laboratories that underwent follow-up audits have reached at least one star. Three out of the four laboratories that underwent official ASLM audits were awarded four stars. Patient satisfaction increased from 25% to 70% and sample rejection rates decreased from 32% to 10%. On average, $40 000 was spent per laboratory to cover mentors’salaries, SLMTA training and improvement project support.Conclusion: Building in-country capacity through local partners is a sustainable model for improving service quality in resource-constrained countries such as Ghana. Such modelspromote country ownership, capacity building and the use of local human resources for the expansion of SLMTA.
Attaining ISO 15189 accreditation through SLMTA: A journey by Kenya’s National HIV Reference Laboratory
Authors: Gachuki Thomas , Sewe Risper , Mwangi Jane , Turgeon David , Garcia Mary , Luman Elizabeth T. , Umuro Mamo
Published: November 2014

Background: The National HIV Reference Laboratory (NHRL) serves as Kenya’s referral HIV laboratory, offering specialised testing and external quality assessment, as well as operating the national HIV serology proficiency scheme. In 2010, the Kenya Ministry of Health established a goal for NHRL to achieve international accreditation.Objectives: This study chronicles the journey that NHRL took in pursuit of accreditation, along with the challenges and lessons learned.Methods: NHRL participated in the Strengthening Laboratory Management Toward Accreditation (SLMTA) programme from 2010–2011. Improvement projects were undertaken to address gaps in the 12 quality system essentials through development of work plans, team formation, training and mentorship of personnel. Audits were conducted and the scores used to track progress along a five-star grading scale. Standard quality indicators (turn-around time, specimen rejection rates and service interruptions) were measured. Costs of improvement projects and accreditation were estimated based on expenditures.Results: NHRL scored 45% (zero stars) at baseline in March 2010 and 95% (five stars) after programme completion in October 2011; in 2013 it became the first public health laboratory in Kenya to attain ISO 15189 accreditation. From 2010–2013, turn-around times decreased by 50% – 95%, specimen rejections decreased by 93% and service interruptions dropped from 15 to zero days. Laboratory expenditures associated with achieving accreditation were approximately US $36 500.Conclusion: International accreditation is achievable through SLMTA, even for a laboratory with limited initial quality management systems. Key success factors were dedication to a shared goal, leadership commitment, team formation and effective mentorship. Countries wishing to achieve accreditation must ensure adequate funding and support.
Progressing beyond SLMTA: Are internal audits and corrective action the key drivers of quality improvement?
Authors: Maina Robert N. , Mengo Doris M. , Mohamud Abdikher D. , Ochieng Susan M. , Milgo Sammy K. , Sexton Connie J. , Moyo Sikhulile , Luman Elizabeth T.
Published: November 2014

Background: Kenya has implemented the Strengthening Laboratory Management Toward Accreditation (SLMTA) programme to facilitate quality improvement in medical laboratories and to support national accreditation goals. Continuous quality improvement after SLMTA completion is needed to ensure sustainability and continue progress toward accreditation.Methods: Audits were conducted by qualified, independent auditors to assess the performance of five enrolled laboratories using the Stepwise Laboratory Quality Improvement Process Towards Accreditation (SLIPTA) checklist. End-of-programme (exit) and one year post-programme (surveillance) audits were compared for overall score, star level (from zero to five, based on scores) and scores for each of the 12 Quality System Essential (QSE) areas that make up the SLIPTA checklist.Results: All laboratories improved from exit to surveillance audit (median improvement 38 percentage points, range 5–45 percentage points). Two laboratories improved from zero to one star, two improved from zero to three stars and one laboratory improved from three to four stars. The lowest median QSE scores at exit were: internal audit; corrective action; and occurrence management and process improvement (< 20%). Each of the 12 QSEs improved substantially at surveillance audit, with the greatest improvement in client management and customer service, internal audit and information management (≥ 50 percentage points). The two laboratories with the greatest overall improvement focused heavily on the internal audit and corrective action QSEs.Conclusion: Whilst all laboratories improved from exit to surveillance audit, those that focused on the internal audit and corrective action QSEs improved substantially more than those that did not; internal audits and corrective actions may have acted as catalysts, leading to improvements in other QSEs. Systematic identification of core areas and best practices to address them is a critical step toward strengthening public medical laboratories.
Perceptions and attitudes toward SLMTA amongst laboratory and hospital professionals in Ethiopia
Authors: Lulie Adino D. , Hiwotu Tilahun M. , Mulugeta Achamyeleh , Kedebe Adisu , Asrat Habtamu , Abebe Abnet , Yenealem Dereje , Abose Ebise , Kassa Wondwossen , Kebed Amha , Linde Mary K. , Ayana Gonfa
Published: November 2014

Background: Strengthening Laboratory Management Toward Accreditation (SLMTA) is a competency-based management training programme. Assessing health professionals’ views of SLMTA provides feedback to inform program planning, implementation and evaluation of SLMTA's training, communication and mentorship components.Objectives: To assess laboratory professionals’ and hospital chief executive officers’ (CEOs) perceptions and attitudes toward the SLMTA programme in Ethiopia.Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted in March 2013 using a structured questionnaire to collect qualitative data from 72 laboratory professionals and hospital CEOs from 17 health facilities, representing all regions and two city administrations in Ethiopia. Focus groups were conducted with laboratory professionals and hospital administration to gain insight into the strengths and challenges of the SLMTA programme so as to guide future planning and implementation.Results: Ethiopian laboratory professionals at all levels had a supportive attitude toward the SLMTA programme. They believed that SLMTA substantially improved laboratory services and acted as a catalyst for total healthcare reform and improvement. They also noted that the SLMTA programme achieved marked progress in laboratory supply chain, sample referral, instrument maintenance and data management systems. In contrast, nearly half of the participating hospital CEOs, especially those associated with low-scoring laboratories, were sceptical about the SLMTA programme, believing that the benefits of SLMTA were outweighed by the level of human resources and time commitment required. They also voiced concerns about the cost and sustainability of SLMTA.Conclusion: This study highlights the need for stronger engagement and advocacy with hospital administration and the importance of addressing concerns about the cost and sustainability of the SLMTA programme.
Quality matters in strengthening global laboratory medicine
Authors: Nkengasong John N. , Birx Deborah
Published: November 2014

No abstract available.
Working toward a sustainable laboratory quality improvement programme through country ownership: Mozambique’s SLMTA story
Authors: Masamha Jessina , Skaggs Beth , Pinto Isabel , Mandlaze Ana Paula , Simbine Carolina , Chongo Patrina , De Sousa Leonardo , Kidane Solon , Yao Katy , Luman Elizabeth T. , Samogudo Eduardo
Published: November 2014

Background: Launched in 2009, the Strengthening Laboratory Management Toward Accreditation (SLMTA) programme has emerged as an innovative approach for the improvement of laboratory quality. In order to ensure sustainability, Mozambique embedded the SLMTA programme within the existing Ministry of Health (MOH) laboratory structure.Objective: This article outlines the steps followed to establish a national framework for quality improvement and embed the SLMTA programme within existing MOH laboratory systems.Methods: The MOH adopted SLMTA as the national laboratory quality improvement strategy, hired a dedicated coordinator and established a national laboratory quality technical working group comprising mostly personnel from key MOH departments. The working group developed an implementation framework for advocacy, training, mentorship, supervision and audits. Emphasis was placed on building local capacity for programme activities. After receiving training, a team of 25 implementers (18 from the MOH and sevenfrom partner organisations) conducted baseline audits (using the Stepwise Laboratory Quality Improvement Process Towards Accreditation [SLIPTA] checklist), workshops and site visits in six reference and two central hospital laboratories. Exit audits were conducted in six of the eight laboratories and their results are presented.Results: The six laboratories demonstrated substantial improvement in SLIPTA checklistscores; median scores increased from 35% at baseline to 57% at exit. It has been recommended that the National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory apply for international accreditation.Conclusion: Successful implementation of SLMTA requires partnership between programme implementers, whilst effectiveness and long-term viability depend on country leadership, ownership and commitment. Integration of SLMTA into the existing MOH laboratory system will ensure durability beyond initial investments. The Mozambican model holds great promise that country leadership, ownership and institutionalisation can set the stage for programme success and sustainability.
Intracranially protruded bilateral posterior and superior SCCs with multiple dehiscences in a patient with positional vertigo: CT and MR imaging findings and review of literature
Authors: Kundaragi Nischal G , Mudali Srinivasa , Karpagam Bulabai , Priya Rathna
Published: November 2014

We report a rare case of intracranially protruded posterior and superior semicircular canals beyond the margins of temporal bone with bony roof dehiscence in bilateral posterior and left superior semicircular canals in a patient with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).
Randomized Trial of Hypnosis as a Pain and Symptom Management Strategy in Adults with Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Wallen Gwenyth R. , Middleton Kimberly R. , Ames Nancy , Brooks Alyssa T. , Handel Daniel
Published: November 2014

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common genetic disease in African-Americans, characterized by recurrent painful vaso-occlusive crises. Medical therapies for controlling or preventing crises are limited because of efficacy and/or toxicity. This is a randomized, controlled, single-crossover protocol of hypnosis for managing pain in SCD patients. Participants receive hypnosis from a trained hypnosis therapist followed by six weeks of self-hypnosis using digital media. Those in the control arm receive SCD education followed by a six-week waiting period before crossing over to the hypnosis arm of the study. Outcome measures include assessments of pain (frequency, intensity and quality), anxiety, coping strategies, sleep, depression, and health care utilization. To date, there are no published randomized, controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of hypnosis on SCD pain modulation in adults. Self-hypnosis for pain management may be helpful in modulating chronic pain, improving sleep quality, and decreasing use of narcotics in patients with SCD. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00393250
Low crude protein diets modulate intestinal responses in weaned pigs challenged withEscherichia coliK88
Authors: Opapeju F. O. , Rodriguez-Lecompte J. C. , Rademacher M. , Krause D. O. , Nyachoti C. M.
Published: November 2014

Opapeju, F. O., Rodriguez-Lecompte, J. C., Rademacher, M., Krause, D. O. and Nyachoti, C. M. 2015. Low crude protein diets modulate intestinal responses in weaned pigs challenged with Escherichia coli K88. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 71–78. Effects of dietary crude protein (CP) content on intestinal indicators of infection and diarrhea in pigs challenged with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) K88 were investigated. Forty piglets [body weight (BW)=6.96±0.45, mean±SD], housed four per pen, were randomly allotted to two diets (five pens per diet): a 22.2% CP or a 17.3% CP supplemented with amino acids. Diets contained the same amount of standardized ileal digestible Lys, Met+Cys, Thr, Trp based on the ideal amino acid ratio. Isoleucine and Val were added to the 17.3% CP diet up to the level in the 22.2% CP diet. All other nutrients were as per National Research Council (1998) specification. Three piglets per pen were serially slaughtered on days 3, 5, and 7 after weaning for evaluation of intestinal hydrolases (data reported elsewhere). On day 8 post-weaning, the remaining pigs were inoculated with 6 mL of ETEC suspension (1010CFU mL−1) and slaughtered 20 h later. Mucosal-associated ETEC was detected in higher counts (3.17±0.63 log10CFU g−1digesta) in 80% of pigs fed the 22.2% CP diet compared with 20% of those fed the 17.3% CP diet in which the counts were also lower (2.00±log10CFU g−1digesta). Pigs fed the 22.2% CP diet tended (P=0.09) to have fewer goblet cells with sialomucins in jejunal villi compared with those fed the 17.3% CP diet. The expression of toll-like receptors 4 and 5 was unaffected by diet but the expression of sodium-coupled glucose transporter 1 was higher (P=0.04) in the jejunum of pigs fed the 22.2% CP diet compared with those fed the 17.3% CP diet. The results suggest that feeding a low-CP diet decreases ETEC proliferation and attachment in the intestinal mucosa and this is accompanied by a reduced expression of sodium-coupled glucose transporter 1.
Maladies parodontales chez l’homme et maladies systémiques
Authors: Gauzeran Didier
Published: November 2014

À l’instar de tout foyer infectieux d’origine dentaire, les gingivites et les parodontites, qui entretiennent une septicité buccale permanente, peuvent avoir une incidence sur l’organisme, entraîner des manifestations à distance et interférer avec certaines maladies systémiques.

Ces manifestations sont en rapport avec une bactériémie et une toxinémie chroniques à partir de gencives inflammatoires, en rapport avec l’inhalation et l’ingestion de bactéries, et répondent peut-être aussi à des mécanismes immunologiques.

Les maladies parodontales (MP) font l’objet de multiples études depuis de nombreuses années, afin d’identifier les liens pouvant exister avec des affections systémiques. Ainsi, certaines entités pathologiques ont pu être mises en relation avec les MP. De récentes études confirment non seulement l’impact des MP sur de nombreuses affections, mais aussi les répercussions parodontales induites par ces mêmes affections.

À ce jour, il est évoqué des relations avec le diabète, les affections cardiovasculaires, la pneumologie, la rhumatologie, l’obstétrique…
Maladies parodontales : facteurs de risque et approches thérapeutiques
Authors: Jourde Michel
Published: November 2014

Les maladies parodontales sont des maladies infectieuses multifactorielles, initiées par l’accumulation du biofilm bactérien sur les surfaces dentaires et provoquant la destruction des tissus de soutien de la dent. La présence des agents bactériens n’est pas suffisante pour expliquer l’hétérogénéité des formes cliniques, différents facteurs de risque influencent la fréquence et la sévérité des parodontites. La modulation de la réponse de l’hôte se traduit par une destruction plus ou moins importante des tissus parodontaux et certains facteurs (environnementaux, systémiques, comportementaux) doivent être pris en compte dans le cadre de la thérapeutique parodontale. L’évolution de nos connaissances fondamentales et cliniques au cours de ces quinze dernières années ont fait considérablement fait évoluer la prise en charge de ces pathologies. L’approche thérapeutique aura pour objectifs, le contrôle de l’infection et de l’inflammation, tout en essayant d’être le plus conservateur possible sur le plan tissulaire.
Maladies parodontales chez le chien : facteurs de risque et approches thérapeutiques
Authors: Hennet Philippe
Published: November 2014

Les maladies parodontales, maladies naturelles induite par l’accumulation de plaque dentaire sur les dents, affectent tous les chiens au cours de leur vie à des degrés plus ou moins importants. La gravité est fonction de différents facteurs des risques généraux et locaux. Les principaux sont, d’une part, la taille de l’individu et, d’autre part, l’absence d’hygiène bucco-dentaire et d’activité masticatoire. Après avoir effectué un diagnostic parodontal clinique et radiographique, le traitement parodontal comprend le détartrage supra-gingival, le débridement sous gingival et le polissage dentaire. La réussite du traitement dépend de l’hygiène bucco-dentaire, indispensable pour éviter l’accumulation non contrôlée de la plaque dentaire. Les chiens de petite taille doivent particulièrement faire l’objet d’attention et d’une hygiène rigoureuse.
Particularités des affections bucco-dentaires chez le cheval
Authors: Gauchot Jean-Yves , Chuit Pierre
Published: November 2014

Après voir relaté le riche historique de l’art dentaire depuis les Hittites, les auteurs abordent les spécificités anatomiques et fonctionnelles des dents hypsodontes et diphyodontes des équidés, et leurs conséquences sur les soins dentaires courants. Les principales pathologies congénitales, acquises et traumatiques sont présentées. Enfin, une approche des soins dentaires courants, et leur relation présumée avec l’équitation, notamment au siège de l’embouchure, sont évoquées.
La kisspeptine, un nouvel acteur clé dans le contrôle de la reproduction
Authors: Beltramo Massimiliano , Caraty Alain
Published: November 2014

We discuss here the secular early onset of puberty in children, the central mechanisms of puberty as well as the clinical aspects of central precocious puberty in children. How to suspect it, how to explore it and how to treat it are the main topics of this article.
Quel futur pour l’amélioration génétique chez les espèces domestiques ?
Authors: Boichard Didier
Published: November 2014

What future for farm animal breeding?

Genomic selection which relies on a genetic evaluation of the breeding value of candidates from genetic markers spanning the whole genome, will strongly develop in the future, likely in all species but to a various extent according to their respective economic conditions. Genomic selection is especially interesting when generation interval is long, individual animal value is high, and phenotyping is difficult or costly. Important challenges for the future are the following : to reduce costs for large scale use ; to broaden the range of selected traits, especially for health ; to develop methods robust to low relationships between candidates and the reference population ; on a longer term, to account for interactions between genes and between genes and environment. New applications will be developed beyond selection for the mating plan or to limit the loss in genetic variability. From the organizational point of view, more integration is expected between selection and phenotype production. More competition and differentiation between players is expected, especially for new traits, as well as more collaboration to increase efficiency for conventional traits.
Le microbiote intestinal : un compartiment biologique à explorer chez les animaux d’élevage
Authors: Rogel-Gaillard Claire
Published: November 2014

The microbiota of the gastro-intestinal tract : a biological compartment to explore in livestock species

In a perspective of safe, competitive and sustainable animal breeding systems, deepening animal phenotyping and defining new breeding goals are identified as major concerns. The intestine hosts a microbial ecosystem referred to as the gut microbiota. The gut epithelium, at the interface between the host and the microbiota, plays fundamental roles in nutrient absorption, local and systemic immune functions, as well as adaptive functions. The onset of high throughput sequencing methods have paved the way toward an unprecedented characterization of the microbiota by producing data on the non cultivable bacteria set. In livestock species, the scientific and technological context is in place to study the gut microbiota at both phylogenetic (bacteria diversity) and functional levels, and analyze the impact on shaping the host phenotype.