bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retinal nerve fibre layer thickness of black and Indian myopic students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Murugan Chanel , Golodza Bomikazi Z. , Pillay Kaveshni , Mthembu Brightness N. , Singh Praneal , Maseko Sibusiso K. , Jhetam Siddeeqa , Rampersad Nishanee
Published: June 2015

Aim: To compare retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness in black and Indian myopic students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.Method: Eighty (40 black and 40 Indian) participants of both genders and aged between 19 and 24 years (mean and standard deviation: 21 ± 1.7 years) were included in the study. Refractive errors were assessed with the Nidek AR-310A auto-refractor and via subjective refraction. RNFL thicknesses were then measured using the iVue-100 optical coherence tomography device. Axial lengths were measured with the Nidek US-500 A-scan ultrasound device. Data were analysed by descriptive statistics, t-tests, Pearson’s correlation coefficients and regression analysis.Results: The mean myopic spherical equivalent was significantly more negative amongst the Indian (-2.42 D ± 2.22 D) than amongst the black (-1.48 D ± 1.13 D) (p = 0.02) participants.The mean axial length was greater amongst the black (23.35 mm ± 0.74 mm) than amongst the Indian (23.18 mm ± 0.87 mm) participants but the difference was not significant. In the total sample (n = 80), the average global RNFL thickness ranged from 87 μm to 123 μm (105 μm ±9 μm). Mean global RNFL thickness was slightly greater amongst black (108 μm ± 7 μm) than amongst Indian (102 μm ± 9 μm) (p = 0.00) participants. Mean global RNFL thickness was similar for male (106 μm ± 7 μm) and female (105 μm ± 10 μm) (p = 0.79) participants.A positive and significant association between myopic spherical equivalent and global RNFL thickness was found for the total sample (r = 0.36, p = 0.00) and for Indians (r = 0.33, p = 0.04)but not for the black (r = 0.25, p = 0.13) participants. There was a negative and significant correlation between axial length and global RNFL thickness amongst the Indian participants (r = -0.34, p = 0.03) but not amongst the total sample (r = -0.12, p = 0.30) or the black (r = 0.06, p = 0.73) participants.Conclusion: The findings suggest that racial differences in RNFL thickness need to be considered in the clinical examination and screening for glaucoma and other optic nerve pathologies amongst black and Indian people. Additionally, the possible influences ofrefractive error and axial length should be considered when evaluating RNFL thickness.
Globalised mission as opportunity
Authors: Jacobs Pierre J. , Van Eck Ernest
Published: June 2015

Globalisation develops at a staggering pace that envelopes and infiltrates local South African communities in various ways. Through technology a person can have access to anything today. Should the church try to keep up, or compete with such a reality? This article aims to encourage the church to develop a responsible missional character, which embraces the opportunities globalisation offers – to be a participative forum in a community comprising of more than religious people. Through re-evaluating the church’s missional intent, by shifting the paradigm away from self-centred outcomes, the church should contribute to such a community’s articulation of faith.
Erectile function in circumcised and uncircumcised men in Lusaka, Zambia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Chinkoyo Evans , Pather Michael
Published: June 2015

Background: Evidence from three randomised control trials in South Africa, Uganda and Kenya showing that male circumcision can reduce heterosexual transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection from infected females to their male partners by up to 60% has led to an increase in circumcisions in most African countries. This has created anxieties around possible deleterious effects of circumcision on erectile function (EF).Aim: To compare EF in circumcised and uncircumcised men aged 18 years and older.Setting: Four primary healthcare facilities in Lusaka, Zambia.Methods: Using a cross-sectional survey 478 participants (242 circumcised and 236 uncircumcised) from four primary healthcare facilities in Lusaka, Zambia were asked to complete the IIEF-5 questionnaire. EF scores were calculated for the two groups, where normal EF constituted an IIEF-5 score ≥ 22 (out of 25).Results: Circumcised men had higher average EF scores compared to their uncircumcised counterparts, (p < 0.001). The prevalence of erectile dysfunction was lower in circumcisedmen (56%) compared to uncircumcised men (68%) (p < 0.05). EF scores were similar in thosecircumcised in childhood and those who had the procedure in adulthood, (p = 0.59). The groups did not differ significantly in terms of age, relationship status, smoking, alcohol and medication use. A statistically significant difference was observed in education levels, with the circumcision group having higher levels of education (p < 0.005).Conclusion: The higher EF scores in circumcised men show that circumcision does not confer adverse EF effects in men. These results suggest that circumcision can be considered safe interms of EF. A definitive prospective study is needed to confirm these findings.
What keeps health professionals working in rural district hospitals in South Africa?
Authors: Jenkins Louis S. , Gunst Colette , Blitz Julia , Coetzee Johan F.
Published: June 2015

Background: The theme of the 2014 Southern African Rural Health Conference was ‘Building resilience in facing rural realities’. Retaining health professionals in South Africa is critical for sustainable health services. Only 12% of doctors and 19% of nurses have been retained in the rural areas. The aim of the workshop was to understand from health practitioners why they continued working in their rural settings.Conference workshop: The workshop consisted of 29 doctors, managers, academic family physicians, nurses and clinical associates from Southern Africa, with work experience from three weeks to 13 years, often in deep rural districts. Using the nominal group technique, the following question was explored, ‘What is it that keeps you going to work every day?’ Participants reflected on their work situation and listed and rated the important reasons for continuing to work.Results: Five main themes emerged. A shared purpose, emanating from a deep sense of meaning, was the strongest reason for staying and working in a rural setting. Working in a team was second most important, with teamwork being related to attitudes and relationships, support from visiting specialists and opportunities to implement individual clinical skills. A culture of support was third, followed by opportunities for growth and continuing professional development, including teaching by outreaching specialists. The fifth theme was a healthy work-life balance.Conclusion: Health practitioners continue to work in rural settings for often deeper reasons relating to a sense of meaning, being part of a team that closely relate to each other and feeling supported.
Evaluation of the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus in North Indians using the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study groups (IADPSG) criteria
Authors: Gopalakrishnan V , Singh R , Pradeep Y , Kapoor D , Rani AK , Pradhan S , Bhatia E , Yadav SB
Published: June 2015

Objective:

Currently, there is controversy regarding the diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) as per the newer International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) criteria. We studied the prevalence and associations of GDM in North Indians, diagnosed by the IADPSG criteria.

Patients and Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study on 332 pregnant women, predominantly belonging to lower and middle socioeconomic strata. The women were screened for GDM between 24 weeks and 28 weeks of gestation by 75g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and GDM diagnosed by the IADPSG criteria.

Results:

The prevalence of GDM was 41.9% [95% Confidence interval (CI) 36.6-47.2%]. Amongst the women diagnosed to have GDM, 91.4% had abnormal fasting plasma glucose (FPG), while 1-h and 2-h post-glucose (PG) levels were abnormal in 18.7% and 17.3% of women, respectively. No maternal factors were significantly associated with GDM. Birth weight of the neonates was similar in women with GDM as compared to those with normal glucose tolerance. In the entire group, fasting glucose levels were associated with the weight of the patient while 1-h PG levels were associated with weight, height, socioeconomic score, and parity.

Conclusions:

There is a very high prevalence rate of GDM using the IADPSG criteria in North Indian women of low and middle socioeconomic strata. Further studies are needed to assess the utility of applying these criteria in settings with limited resources.
Short-term outcomes of a program developed to inculcate research essentials in undergraduate medical students
Authors: Devi V , Ramnarayan K , Abraham RR , Pallath V , Kamath A , Kodidela S
Published: June 2015

Background:

Participation in research during undergraduate studies may increase students’ interest in research and inculcate research essentials in them.

Aims:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the mentored student project (MSP) program.

Settings and Design:

In the MSP program, students in groups (n = 3 to 5) undertook a research project, wrote a scholarly report, and presented the work as a poster presentation with the help of a faculty mentor. To begin with, the logic model of the program was developed to identify short-term outcomes of the program on students, mentors, and the institution. A quasi-experimental design was used to measure the outcomes.

Materials and Methods:

A mixed method evaluation was done using a newly-developed questionnaire to assess the impact of the MSP on students’ attitude, a multiple-choice question (MCQs) test to find out the impact on students’ knowledge and grading of students’ project reports and posters along with a survey to check the impact on skills. Students’ satisfaction regarding the program and mentors’ perceptions were collected using questionnaires. Evidence for validity was collected for all the instruments used for the evaluation.

Statistical Analysis:

Non-parametric tests were used to analyze data. Based on the scores, project reports and posters were graded into A (>70% marks), B (60-69% marks), and C (<59% marks) categories. The number of MSPs that resulted in publications, conference presentation and departmental collaborations were taken as impact on the institution.

Results:

Students’ response rate was 91.5%. The students’ attitudes regarding research changed positively (P = 0.036) and score in the MCQ test improved (P < 0.001) after undertaking MSP. Majority of project reports and posters were of grade A category. The majority of the items related to skills gained and satisfaction had a median score of 4. The MSPs resulted in inter-departmental and inter-institutional collaborations, 14 publications and 15 conference presentations. An area for improvement noted was to have the MSP implemented in the curriculum without increasing students’ overall workload and stress.

Conclusion:

The study identified strengths and weaknesses of the MSP program. Our model of undergraduate research project may be incorporated in undergraduate medical programs to foster positive attitude and knowledge base about scientific research and to instil research skills among students.
Postoperative coagulopathy after live related donor hepatectomy
Authors: Karna ST , Pandey CK , Sharma S , Singh A , Tandon M , Pandey VK
Published: June 2015

Background:

Coagulopathy after living donor hepatectomy (LDH) may endanger donor safety during removal of thoracic epidural catheter (TEC). The present study was conducted to evaluate the extent and duration of immediate postoperative coagulopathy after LDH.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis of perioperative record of LDH over three years was conducted after IRB approval. Variables such as age, gender, BMI, ASA classification, liver volume on CT scan, preoperative and postoperative INR, platelet count (PC) and ALT of each donor for five days was noted. In addition, duration of surgery, remnant as percentage total liver volume (Remnant%), blood loss, day of peak in PC and INR were also noted. Coagulopathy was defined as being present if INR exceeded 1.5 or platelet count fell below 1 × 10 5 /mm 3 on any day. Data was analyzed using SPSS 20 for Windows. Between group comparison was made using the Student ‘t’ test for continuous variables and chi square test for categorical variables. Univariate analysis was done. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to find independent factor associated with coagulopathy.

Results:

Eighty four (84) donors had coagulopathy on second day (mean INR 1.9 ± 0.42). Low BMI, % of remnant liver and duration of surgery were independent predictors of coagulopathy. Right lobe hepatectomy had more coagulopathy than left lobe and low BMI was the only independent predictor. There was no correlation of coagulopathy with age, gender, blood loss, presence of epidural catheter, postoperative ALT or duration of hospital stay. High INR was the main contributor for coagulopathy.

Conclusions:

Coagulopathy is seen after donor hepatectomy. We recommend removal of the epidural catheter after the fifth postoperative day when INR falls below 1.5.
Sildenafil in pediatric pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Dhariwal AK , Bavdekar SB
Published: June 2015

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a life-threatening disease of varied etiologies. Although PAH has no curative treatment, a greater understanding of pathophysiology, technological advances resulting in early diagnosis, and the availability of several newer drugs have improved the outlook for patients with PAH. Sildenafil is one of the therapeutic agents used extensively in the treatment of PAH in children, as an off-label drug. In 2012, the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) issued a warning regarding the of use high-dose sildenafil in children with PAH. This has led to a peculiar situation where there is a paucity of approved therapies for the management of PAH in children and the use of the most extensively used drug being discouraged by the regulator. This article provides a review of the use of sildenafil in the treatment of PAH in children.
Pulmonary choriostoma in a case of tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Spalgais S , Gothi D , Verma AK
Published: June 2015

A 52 years old lady was diagnosed to have Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) on the basis of 2 major and one minor criterion. She had family history of similar complaints in her sister and two sons. There was involvement of kidney in the form of angiomyolipoma, skin in the form of facial angiofibroma and teeth with a dental pit. She had an unusual lung involvement in the form of multiple small choristomas. Choristoma was diagnosed on transbronchial lung biopsy and was present in the form of disorganised striated muscles. The reported pulmonary manifestations of TCS i.e. lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) and multifocal micronodular pneumocyte hyperplasia (MMPH) are types of hamartomas. Hamartomas and choristomas are both types of disorganized tissue. ‘Choristoma'of lung in TSC however is not reported. Clinopathological correlation of pulmonary hamartoma and choristoma, and treatment in TSC has been discussed.
Modified Nance palatal button
Authors: Arora Nitin , Arora Monika , Singh Ashish Kumar , Revankar Ameet V.
Published: June 2015

This paper describes modified Nance palatal button by which problems encountered in the palatal region around the acrylic button during space closure and molar distalization can be minimized.
Implicaciones del filtrado de calidad del índice de vegetación EVI para el seguimiento funcional de ecosistemas
Authors: Reyes Díez A. , Alcaraz-Segura D. , Cabello Piñar J.
Published: June 2015

El seguimiento de los ecosistemas con imágenes procedentes del sensor MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer, espectroradiómetro de imágenes de resolución media) está actualmente muy extendido tanto en tareas de investigación como de gestión. Los índices de vegetación NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, índice de vegetación de la diferencia normalizada) y EVI (Enhanced Vegetation Index, índice de vegetación mejorado) son ampliamente usados para la caracterización del funcionamiento ecosistémico. Ambos índices se emplean como estimadores lineales de la fracción de radiación fotosintéticamente activa interceptada por la vegetación (fAPAR), el principal control de la producción primaria. A pesar de sus ventajas, las imágenes de índices de vegetación no están libres de errores. El producto índices de vegetación MOD13Q1 proporciona una capa QA (Quality assessment,evaluación de la calidad) que informa sobre la calidad asociada a cada píxel. Esta información representa una gran ventaja para el usuario, al permitir filtrar aquellos datos que puedan inducir a errores al verse alterados por la presencia de aerosoles, nubes, nieve o sombras. Sin embargo, la realización de un filtrado homogéneo a lo largo de una gran región puede ocasionar la pérdida sistemática de información en determinadas zonas o épocas del año, introduciendo así un sesgo espacial o en la serie temporal. Esta situación puede ser especialmente crítica en regiones con alta heterogeneidad ambiental, como el Sureste Ibérico. En este trabajo evaluamos el efecto que el filtrado de calidad tiene sobre la información espacial y temporal de la base de datos del EVI en el periodo 2001-2010. Los esultados, expresados en porcentaje de información perdida (filtrada) y como efecto de estas pérdidas sobre los valores del EVI, indican que mientras que las áreas de menor altitud no se ven afectadas por el filtrado, las regiones de alta montaña muestran variaciones significativas en sus valores del EVI cuando son filtrados por aerosoles, sombras o la presencia de hielo o nieve. Esto pone de manifiesto la importancia del establecimiento de un protocolo para el procesamiento de la información que considere las características espaciales y temporales de los datos a filtrar.
A linear method for the retrieval of sun-induced chlorophyll fluorescence from GOME-2 and SCIAMACHY data
Authors: Köhler P. , Guanter L. , Joiner J.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. Global retrievals of near-infrared sun-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) have been achieved in the last few years by means of a number of space-borne atmospheric spectrometers. Here, we present a new retrieval method for medium spectral resolution instruments such as the Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment-2 (GOME-2) and the SCanning Imaging Absorption SpectroMeter for Atmospheric CHartographY (SCIAMACHY). Building upon the previous work by Guanter et al. (2013) and Joiner et al. (2013), our approach provides a solution for the selection of the number of free parameters. In particular, a backward elimination algorithm is applied to optimize the number of coefficients to fit, which reduces also the retrieval noise and selects the number of state vector elements automatically. A sensitivity analysis with simulated spectra has been utilized to evaluate the performance of our retrieval approach. The method has also been applied to estimate SIF at 740 nm from real spectra from GOME-2 and for the first time, from SCIAMACHY. We find a good correspondence of the absolute SIF values and the spatial patterns from the two sensors, which suggests the robustness of the proposed retrieval method. In addition, we compare our results to existing SIF data sets, examine uncertainties and use our GOME-2 retrievals to show empirically the relatively low sensitivity of the SIF retrieval to cloud contamination.
High-resolution and Monte Carlo additions to the SASKTRAN radiative transfer model
Authors: Zawada D. J. , Dueck S. R. , Rieger L. A. , Bourassa A. E. , Lloyd N. D. , Degenstein D. A.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. The Optical Spectrograph and InfraRed Imaging System (OSIRIS) instrument on board the Odin spacecraft has been measuring limb-scattered radiance since 2001. The vertical radiance profiles measured as the instrument nods are inverted, with the aid of the SASKTRAN radiative transfer model, to obtain vertical profiles of trace atmospheric constituents. Here we describe two newly developed modes of the SASKTRAN radiative transfer model: a high-spatial-resolution mode and a Monte Carlo mode. The high-spatial-resolution mode is a successive-orders model capable of modelling the multiply scattered radiance when the atmosphere is not spherically symmetric; the Monte Carlo mode is intended for use as a highly accurate reference model. It is shown that the two models agree in a wide variety of solar conditions to within 0.2 %. As an example case for both models, Odin–OSIRIS scans were simulated with the Monte Carlo model and retrieved using the high-resolution model. A systematic bias of up to 4 % in retrieved ozone number density between scans where the instrument is scanning up or scanning down was identified. The bias is largest when the sun is near the horizon and the solar scattering angle is far from 90°. It was found that calculating the multiply scattered diffuse field at five discrete solar zenith angles is sufficient to eliminate the bias for typical Odin–OSIRIS geometries.
Annual cycle of volatile organic compound exchange between a boreal pine forest and the atmosphere
Authors: Rantala P. , Aalto J. , Taipale R. , Ruuskanen T. M. , Rinne J.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. Long-term flux measurements of volatile organic compounds (VOC) over boreal forests are rare, although the forests are known to emit considerable amounts of VOCs into the atmosphere. Thus, we measured fluxes of several VOCs and oxygenated VOCs over a Scots pine dominated boreal forest semi-continuously between May 2010 and December 2013. The VOC profiles were obtained with a proton-transfer-reaction mass-spectrometry, and the fluxes were calculated using vertical concentration profiles and the surface layer profile method connected to the Monin-Obukhov similarity theory. In total fluxes that differed significantly from zero on a monthly basis were observed for 14 out 27 measured masses. Monoterpenes had the highest net emission in all seasons and statistically significant positive fluxes were detected from March until November. Other important compounds emitted were methanol, ethanol/formic acid, acetone and isoprene/MBO. Oxygenated VOCs showed also deposition fluxes that were statistically different from zero. Isoprene/methylbutenol and monoterpene fluxes followed well the traditional isoprene algorithm and the hybrid algorithm, respectively. Emission potentials of monoterpenes were largest in late spring and fall which was possibly driven by growth processes and decaying of soil litter, respectively. Conversely, largest emission potentials of isoprene/methylbutenol were found in July. Thus, we concluded that most of the emissions of m/z 69 at the site consisted of isoprene that originated from broadleaved trees. Methanol had deposition fluxes especially before sunrise. This can be connected to water films on surfaces. Based on this assumption, we were able to build an empirical algorithm for bi-directional methanol exchange that described both emission term and deposition term. Methanol emissions were highest in May and June and deposition level increased towards fall, probably as a result of increasing relative humidity levels leading to predominance of deposition.
Projected changes in US rainfall erosivity
Authors: Biasutti M. , Seager R.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. Downscaled rainfall projections from 21 climate models from the CMIP5 (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5) archive are used to estimate future changes in rainfall erosivity in the continental Unites States. To estimate erosivity from rainfall in the absence of sub-hourly data, we have used both daily rainfall values and the modified Fournier index – which is based on monthly rainfall accumulation – and derived the scaling relationship between rainfall and erosivity from observational estimates of both. The expectation of overall increase in erosivity is confirmed by these calculations, but a quantitative assessment is marred by large uncertainties. Specifically, the uncertainty in the method of estimation of erosivity is more consequential than that deriving from the spread in climate simulations and leads to changes of uncertain sign in parts of the southwest and Texas. We suggest that progress can be made by establishing a more reliable functional relationship between daily rainfall and erosivity.
Hydrologic extremes – an intercomparison of multiple gridded statistical downscaling methods
Authors: Werner A. T. , Cannon A. J.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. Gridded statistical downscaling methods are the main means of preparing climate model data to drive distributed hydrological models. Past work on the validation of climate downscaling methods has focused on temperature and precipitation, with less attention paid to the ultimate outputs from hydrological models. Also, as attention shifts towards projections of extreme events, downscaling comparisons now commonly assess methods in terms of climate extremes, but hydrologic extremes are less well explored. Here, we test the ability of gridded downscaling models to replicate historical properties of climate and hydrologic extremes, as measured in terms of temporal sequencing (i.e., correlation tests) and distributional properties (i.e., tests for equality of probability distributions). Outputs from seven downscaling methods – bias correction constructed analogues (BCCA), double BCCA (DBCCA), BCCA with quantile mapping reordering (BCCAQ), bias correction spatial disaggregation (BCSD), BCSD using minimum/maximum temperature (BCSDX), climate imprint delta method (CI), and bias corrected CI (BCCI) – are used to drive the Variable Infiltration Capacity (VIC) model over the snow-dominated Peace River basin, British Columbia. Outputs are tested using split-sample validation on 26 climate extremes indices (ClimDEX) and two hydrologic extremes indices (3 day peak flow and 7 day peak flow). To characterize observational uncertainty, four atmospheric reanalyses are used as climate model surrogates and two gridded observational datasets are used as downscaling target data. The skill of the downscaling methods generally depended on reanalysis and gridded observational dataset. However, CI failed to reproduce the distribution and BCSD and BCSDX the timing of winter 7 day low flow events, regardless of reanalysis or observational dataset. Overall, DBCCA passed the greatest number of tests for the ClimDEX indices, while BCCAQ, which is designed to more accurately resolve event-scale spatial gradients, passed the greatest number of tests for hydrologic extremes. Non-stationarity in the observational/reanalysis datasets complicated the evaluation of downscaling performance. Comparing temporal homogeneity and trends in climate indices and hydrological model outputs calculated from downscaled reanalyses and gridded observations was useful for diagnosing the reliability of the various historical datasets. We recommend that such analyses be conducted before such data are used to construct future hydro-climatic change scenarios.
Source of the 6 February 2013 Mw = 8.0 Santa Cruz Islands Tsunami
Authors: Romano F. , Molinari I. , Lorito S. , Piatanesi A.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. On 6 February 2013 an Mw = 8.0 subduction earthquake occurred close to Santa Cruz Islands at the transition between the Solomon and the New Hebrides Trench. The ensuing tsunami caused significant inundation on the closest Nendo Island. The seismic source was studied with teleseismic broadband P-wave inversion optimized with tsunami forward modelling at DART buoys (Lay et al., 2013) and with inversion of teleseismic body and surface waves (Hayes et al., 2014a). The two studies also use different hypocentres and different planar fault models and found quite different slip models. In particular, Hayes et al. (2014a) argued for an aseismic slip patch SE from the hypocentre. We here develop a 3-D model of the fault surface from seismicity analysis and retrieve the tsunami source by inverting DART and tide-gauge data. Our tsunami source model features a main slip patch (peak value of ~ 11 m) SE of the hypocentre and reaching the trench. The rake direction is consistent with the progressively more oblique plate convergence towards the Solomon trench. The tsunami source partially overlaps the hypothesized aseismic slip area, which then might have slipped coseismically.
The Imbert Formation of northern Hispaniola: a tectono-sedimentary record of arc-continent collision and ophiolite emplacement in the northern Caribbean subduction-accretionary prism
Authors: Escuder-Viruete J. , Suárez-Rodríguez A. , Gabites J. , Pérez-Estaún A.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. In northern Hispaniola, the Imbert Formation (Fm) has been interpreted as an orogenic "mélange" originally deposited as trench-fill sediments, an accretionary (subduction) complex formed above a SW-dipping subduction zone, or the sedimentary result of the early oblique collision of the Caribbean plate with the Bahama Platform in the middle Eocene. However, new stratigraphical, structural, geochemical and geochronological data from northern Hispaniola indicate that the Imbert Fm constitutes a coarsening-upward stratigraphic sequence that records the transition of the sedimentation from a pre-collisional forearc to a syn-collisional piggy-back basin. This piggy-back basin was transported on top of the Puerto Plata ophiolitic complex slab and structurally underlying accreted units of the Rio San Juan complex, as it was emplaced onto the North America continental margin units. The Imbert Fm unconformably overlies different structural levels of the Caribbean subduction-accretionary prism, including a supra-subduction zone ophiolite, and consists of three laterally discontinuous units that record the exhumation of the underlying basement. The distal turbiditic lower unit includes the latest volcanic activity of the Caribbean island arc; the more proximal turbiditic intermediate unit is moderately affected by syn-sedimentary faulting; and the upper unit is a (caotic) olistostromic unit, composed of serpentinite-rich polymictic breccias, conglomerates and sandstones, strongly deformed by syn-sedimentary faulting, slumping and sliding processes. The Imbert Fm is followed by subsidence and turbiditic deposition of the overlying El Mamey Group. The 40Ar / 39Ar plagioclase plateau ages obtained in gabbroic rocks from the Puerto Plata ophiolitic complex indicate its exhumation at ∼ 45–40 Ma (lower-to-middle Eocene), contemporaneously to the sedimentation of the overlying Imbert Fm. These cooling ages imply the uplift to the surface and submarine erosion of the complex to be the source of the ophiolitic fragments in the Imbert Fm, during of shortly after the emplacement of the intra-oceanic Caribbean island-arc onto the continental margin.
The Impact of Audit Committee Characteristics on Earnings Management: A Canadian Case Study
Authors: Ioualalen Lynda , Khemakhem Hanen , Fontaine Richard
Published: June 2015

The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of three Audit Committee (AC) characteristics, financial expertise, diversity and activism on aggressive earnings management. We hypothesized that these AC characteristics are negatively related to aggressive earnings management. To test or hypothesis, we conducted an empirical test with a sample of 10 Canadian corporations listed on the Toronto stock exchange: 5 companies that were accused of aggressive earnings management and 5 other corporations used as a control group. We analyzed the 5-year period prior to the accusation (1999-2003). We measured earnings management by the level of discretionary accruals (using the modified Jones model (1995). Our results show that activism and the financial expertise of AC members are negatively related to aggressive earnings management; however, we did not find a significant relationship between diversity and aggressive earnings management. These results contribute to help governance oversight organizations identify AC characteristics that have the most influence on the detection of aggressive earnings management, which could help agencies develop and enforce methods to detect and reduce aggressive earnings management practices.
Training, development and performance (Case study of the Albanian Public Administration)
Authors: Kraja, PhD Gentiana
Published: June 2015

Training and development as a practice and procedure of procedures undertaken for the improvement of employee's performance in terms of his attitude, skills, knowledge and behavior has become a very important practice in human resource management in successful organizations. The realization of this practice in its full range of public organizations is a real challenge, it's because public organizations often operate under a strict legal framework and of these practices use and flexibility and efficiency is difficult. The main purpose of this paper is to present the main theoretical approaches related to training in public administration all specials presents this practice in the budgetary sectors. Further, in a more practical level, other purpose of this paper is to analyze the relationship of training with performance seen in two levels; individual and organizational.

To realize the goals of this paper are following two main ways. Initially he conducted a theoretical picture of attitudes to assess performance and its position in view of the performance of public administrator. Later in order to answer to key questions of research is designed and distributed a questionnaire on the Albanian public administration whose data are processed further. At the end of this work based on literature review and practical results reflected some recommendations and conclusions.
Dysfunctional Metacognitive Beliefs in Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Authors: Zeinodini Zahra , Sedighi Sahar , Baghertork Rahimi Mandana , Noorbakhsh Simasadat , Rajezi Esfahani Sepideh
Published: June 2015

The present study aims to examine the correlation of body dysmorphic disorder, with metacognitive subscales, metaworry and thought-fusion. The study was conducted in a correlation framework. Sample included 155 high school students in Isfahan, Iran in 2013-2014, gathered through convenience sampling. To gather data about BDD, Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale Modified for BDD was applied. Then, Meta Cognitive Questionnaire, Metaworry Questionnaire, and Thought-Fusion Inventory were used to assess metacognitive subscales, metaworry and thought-fusion. Data obtained from this study were analyzed using Pearson correlation and multiple regressions in SPSS 18. Result indicated YBOCS-BDD scores had a significant correlation with scores from MCQ (P<0.05), MWG (P<0.05), and TFI (P<0.05). Also, multiple regressions were run to predict YBOCS from TFI, MWQ, and MCQ-30. These variables significantly predicted YBOCS [F (3,151) =32.393, R2=0.57]. Findings indicated that body dysmorphic disorder was significantly related to metacognitive subscales, metaworry, and thought fusion in high school students in Isfahan, which is in line with previous studies. A deeper understanding of these processes can broaden theory and treatment of BDD, thereby improve the lives of sufferers and potentially protect others from developing this devastating disorder.
Characteristics of Inpatient Falls not Reported in an Incident Reporting System
Authors: Toyabe Shin-ichi
Published: June 2015

An incident reporting system is the most commonly used method to identify patient safety incidents in a hospital. However, non-reporting of incidents for various reasons is a serious problem. We studied the rate of inpatient falls that were not reported in an incident reporting system but were recorded in medical charts and we evaluated characteristics of those falls by comparing with the falls reported in incident reports in a Japanese acute care hospital setting. Falls recorded in medical charts were detected by using a text mining method followed by a manual chart review. About 25% of the recorded falls were not reported in incident reports. Male patients, first fall, long lag time until recording, no witness at the time of the fall and physician profession were shown to be significant factors associated with non-reporting. Our results show that the rate of non-reporting of inpatient falls in a Japanese acute care hospital is compable to that shown in previous studies in other conutries and that the same barriers to incident reporting as those found in previous studies exist in the medical staff.
Comparing Intelligence Quotient (IQ)among 3 to 7-year-old strabismic and nonstrabismic children in an Iranian population
Authors: Ghaderpanah Mahboubeh , Farrahi Feraidoon , Khataminia Gholamreza , Jahanbakhshi Ahmad , Rezaei Leila , Tashakori Ashraf , Mahboubi Mohammad
Published: June 2015

This study was designed to compare the Intelligence Quotient (IQ) among 3 to 7-year-old strabismic and nonstrabismic children in an Iranian population.

In this cross-sectional study, 108 preschool children with equal numbers of strabismic/non-strabismic disorder (age 3-7 years) were randomly selected from exceptional strabismus clinics of Ahvaz and were evaluated with the preschool and primary scale of intelligence versions of Wechsler (WPPSI).

In the current study, 108 children were evaluated. In strabismic patients the mean performance, verbal and total IQ were 89.46±19.79 , 89.57±21.57 and 91.54±22.08 respectively.These mean scores in normal children  were 91.89±47.53 , 87.56±15.6 and 89.96±17.62consecuently .The results showed that these three different IQ subscales were not significantly different among 3 to 7 years old strabismic and nonstrabismic children ((P>0.05 for all comparisons). There was no significant difference in IQ between two sexes (P>0.05) while Persian tribe children had greater IQ score compared to other tribes (P<0.05). Also, higher paternal educational status of children related to higher IQ score. IQ score was better in combined deviations and was higher in exotropes than esotropes; however, these differences were not statistically significant.(p>0.05)

In this evaluation, we did not found a significant negative interference of strabismus on IQ score of preschool children. It can be concluded that paternal educational level and tribe have a significant effect on intelligent quotient, while this is not the case on sex and ocular deviation.

Keywords: Intelligence quotient, Strabismus, Deviation
Histological Stains: A Literature Review and Case Study
Authors: Alturkistani Hani A , Tashkandi Faris M , Mohammedsaleh Zuhair M
Published: June 2015

The history of histology indicates that there have been significant changes in the techniques used for histological staining through chemical, molecular biology assays and immunological techniques, collectively referred to as histochemistry. Early histologists used the readily available chemicals to prepare tissues for microscopic studies; these laboratory chemicals were potassium dichromate, alcohol and the mercuric chloride to harden cellular tissues. Staining techniques used were carmine, silver nitrate, Giemsa, Trichrome Stains, Gram Stain and Hematoxylin among others.

The purpose of this research was to assess past and current literature reviews, as well as case studies, with the aim of informing ways in which histological stains have been improved in the modern age. Results from the literature review has indicated that there has been an improvement in histopathology and histotechnology in stains used. There has been a rising need for efficient, accurate and less complex staining procedures. Many stain procedures are still in use today, and many others have been replaced with new immunostaining, molecular, non-culture and other advanced staining techniques. Some staining methods have been abandoned because the chemicals required have been medically proven to be toxic. The case studies indicated that in modern histology a combination of different stain techniques are used to enhance the effectiveness of the staining process. Currently, improved histological stains, have been modified and combined with other stains to improve their effectiveness.
Las revistas electrónicas en acceso abierto: pasado, presente y futuro
Authors: Delgado López-Cózar Emilio
Published: June 2015

Comienza este artículo trazando el origen y desarrollo de las revistas electrónicas en acceso abierto, cómo surgieron, se fueron definiendo y a qué necesidades respondieron. Se explica cómo se produjo la transición del mundo impreso al electrónico en el diseño y concepción de las revistas; y se señala exactamente cuando se produjo el despegue de este tipo de publicaciones. Para describir la situación actual de las revistas se recurre a los datos proporcionados por el directorio de publicaciones electrónicas Ulrichs y al directorio de revistas en acceso abierto DOAJ. Se calcula el número de revistas circulantes y se ofrece un retrato del perfil editorial de las revistas a día de hoy. Se descubre la existencia de un patrón editorial distinto (lengua, país de edición, tipo de editorial) en las revistas electrónicas de acceso abierto, frente a las revistas que se editan en el mundo y, sobre todo, respecto a aquellas que gozan de mayor prestigio como son las indizadas en los Journal Citation Reports. En las revistas en acceso abierto existe un mayor protagonismo de los países y lenguas no anglosajones; asimismo se detecta una extraordinaria atomización de las editoriales que difieren de aquellas multinacionales que monopolizan el mercado de la comunicación científica.  Se concluye reflexionando sobre los retos y amenazas que se ciernen sobre este tipo de publicaciones: sobre cómo se irá diluyendo el mundo impreso, cómo se financiarán las revistas, cómo evitar la extensión del fraude con las revistas pirata y, se anuncia la emergencia de un nuevo modelo de comunicación científica.
Liderazgo para el aprendizaje: ¿Qué tareas de los directores y directoras escolares son las que más inciden en el aprendizaje de los estudiantes?
Authors: Murillo F. Javier , Hernández-Castilla Reyes
Published: June 2015

El estudio sobre la distribución del tiempo de los directores escolares y sus efectos sobre el desempeño de los estudiantes es una productiva línea de investigación educativa que ha aportado datos interesantes para la mejora de los centros educativos. El presente estudio busca determinar la incidencia de la distribución del tiempo de los directivos escolares en el desempeño de sus estudiantes, e identificar los factores que inciden sobre dicha distribución. Para ello se hace una explotación especial de la Evaluación General Diagnóstica de Primaria realizada en España en 2009. Los resultados indican que los estudiantes de los centros cuyos directores dedican más tiempo a tareas pedagógicas obtienen significativamente mejores resultados que los que dedican a actividades administrativas. También que el género, edad y formación para el desempeño del directivo, así como la titularidad y el tamaño del centro son factores que inciden en la distribución de su tiempo.
Perspectivas internacionales sobre la práctica de la evaluación en Educación Superior
Authors: Brown Sally
Published: June 2015

La evaluación universitaria varía considerablemente de unos países a otros, con diferentes expectativas sobre estándares y niveles, sobre qué son las buenas prácticas de evaluación y sobre los auténticos propósitos de la evaluación, así como la terminología especializada que se usa y qué prácticas se consideran aceptables. La gama de métodos y enfoques que se utilizan es igualmente muy variada, al igual que las expectativas sobre cómo debe darse y utilizarse la retroalimentación. Los sistemas de evaluación son administrados en diferentes formas a nivel mundial y no hay un acuerdo sobre qué es una buena conducta académica. El artículo plantea que tanto los académicos como los estudiantes pueden beneficiarse de orientación y formación sobre evaluación, y aboga por el diálogo sobre la manera de mejorar la evaluación, de modo que esté verdaderamente integrada en el proceso de aprendizaje
A mex3 homolog is required for differentiation during planarian stem cell lineage development
Authors: Zhu Shu Jun , Hallows Stephanie E , Currie Ko W , Xu ChangJiang , Pearson Bret J
Published: June 2015

Neoblasts are adult stem cells (ASCs) in planarians that sustain cell replacement during homeostasis and regeneration of any missing tissue. While numerous studies have examined genes underlying neoblast pluripotency, molecular pathways driving postmitotic fates remain poorly defined. In this study, we used transcriptional profiling of irradiation-sensitive and irradiation-insensitive cell populations and RNA interference (RNAi) functional screening to uncover markers and regulators of postmitotic progeny. We identified 32 new markers distinguishing two main epithelial progenitor populations and a planarian homolog to the MEX3 RNA-binding protein (Smed-mex3-1) as a key regulator of lineage progression. mex3-1 was required for generating differentiated cells of multiple lineages, while restricting the size of the stem cell compartment. We also demonstrated the utility of using mex3-1(RNAi) animals to identify additional progenitor markers. These results identified mex3-1 as a cell fate regulator, broadly required for differentiation, and suggest that mex3-1 helps to mediate the balance between ASC self-renewal and commitment.
Flux analysis of cholesterol biosynthesis in vivo reveals multiple tissue and cell-type specific pathways
Authors: Mitsche Matthew A , McDonald Jeffrey G , Hobbs Helen H , Cohen Jonathan C
Published: June 2015

Two parallel pathways produce cholesterol: the Bloch and Kandutsch-Russell pathways. Here we used stable isotope labeling and isotopomer analysis to trace sterol flux through the two pathways in mice. Surprisingly, no tissue used the canonical K–R pathway. Rather, a hybrid pathway was identified that we call the modified K–R (MK–R) pathway. Proportional flux through the Bloch pathway varied from 8% in preputial gland to 97% in testes, and the tissue-specificity observed in vivo was retained in cultured cells. The distribution of sterol isotopomers in plasma mirrored that of liver. Sterol depletion in cultured cells increased flux through the Bloch pathway, whereas overexpression of 24-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR24) enhanced usage of the MK–R pathway. Thus, relative use of the Bloch and MK–R pathways is highly variable, tissue-specific, flux dependent, and epigenetically fixed. Maintenance of two interdigitated pathways permits production of diverse bioactive sterols that can be regulated independently of cholesterol.
Two new species and three new combinations in Cyperaceae of New Caledonia and Australia
Authors: Wilson Karen L.
Published: June 2015

Two new species of Cyperaceae endemic to the ultramafic area of southern New Caledonia are described: Chorizandra gigantea J.Raynal ex K.L.Wilson and Schoenus rivularis J.Raynal ex K.L.Wilson. New combinations are made for three species of Cyperaceae in Australia and New Caledonia: Machaerina johnsonii (K.L.Wilson) K.L.Wilson, M. planifolia (Benth.) K.L.Wilson and M. veillonis (J.Raynal) K.L.Wilson
What are the Predictors of Volatile Substance Use in an Urban Community of Adults Who are Homeless?
Authors: DeBoer Tracy , Distasio Jino , Isaak Corinne A. , Roos Leslie E. , Bolton Shay-Lee , Medved Maria , Katz Laurence Y. , Goering Paula , Bruce Lucille , Sareen Jitender
Published: June 2015

The present study explored the prevalence of volatile substance use (VSU ) in a community of homeless adults. The importance of individual life history characteristics (history of traumatic events, residential school history, mental and physical health conditions) were also examined with respect to past-year volatile substance use in this sample. Overall, the results indicate that a variety of traumatic events, particularly residential school history and a number of mental and physical health conditions, were significantly associated with VSU in this urban Canadian sample. These findings have novel implications for community interventions for VSU and highlight the importance of conceptualizing cultural and historical traumas in understanding VSU .