bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A survey to assess the extent of public-private mix DOTS in the management of tuberculosis in Zambia
Authors: Chongwe Gershom , Kapata Nathan , Maboshe Mwendaweli , Michelo Charles , Babaniyi Olusegun
Published: March 2015

Background: Involving all relevant healthcare providers in tuberculosis (TB) management through public-private mix (PPM) approaches is a vital element in the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Stop TB Strategy. The control of TB in Zambia is mainly done in the public health sector, despite the high overall incidence rates.Aim: We conducted a survey to determine the extent of private-sector capacity, participation, practices and adherence to national guidelines in the control of TB.Setting: This survey was done in the year 2012 in 157 facilities in three provinces of Zambia where approximately 85% of the country’s private health facilities are found.Methods: We used a structured questionnaire to interview the heads of private health facilities to assess the participation of the private health sector in TB diagnosis, management and prevention activities.Results: Out of 157 facilities surveyed, 40.5% were from the Copperbelt, 4.4% from Central province and 55.1% from Lusaka province. Only 23.8% of the facilities were able to provide full diagnosis and management of TB patients. Although 47.4% of the facilities reported that they do notify their cases to the National TB control programme, the majority (62.7%) of these facilities did not show evidence of notifications.Conclusion: Our results show that the majority of the facilities that diagnose and manage TB in the private sector do not report their TB activities to the National TB Control Programme (NTP). There is a need for the NTP to improve collaboration with the private sector with respect to TB control activities and PPM for Directly Observed Treatment, Short Course (DOTS).
Knowledge and practices about multidrug-resistant tuberculosis amongst healthcare workers in Maseru
Authors: Malangu Ntambwe , Adebanjo Omotayo D.
Published: March 2015

Background: To date, no study has been found that described the knowledge and practices of healthcare workers surrounding multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in Lesotho.Aim and setting: This study was conducted to fill this gap by investigating the knowledge level and practices surrounding MDR-TB amongst healthcare workers at Botsabelo Hospital in Maseru, Lesotho.Method: This was a cross-sectional survey conducted by means of a questionnaire designed specifically for this study. Data collected included sociodemographic and professional details; and responses to questions about knowledge and practices regarding MDR-TB. The questions ranged from the definition of MDR-TB to its treatment. Respondents’ practices such as the use of masks, guidelines and patient education were also assessed.Results: A response rate of 84.6%(110 out of 130) was achieved. The majority of participants were women (60%), married (71.8%) and nursing staff (74.5%). Overall, less than half (47.3%) of the participants had a good level of knowledge about MDR-TB. With regard to practice, about 83%of participants stated that they used protective masks whilst attending to MDR-TB patients. About two-thirds (66.4%) reported being personally involved in educating patients about MDR-TB; whilst about 55%stated that they referred to these guidelines.Conclusion: The level of knowledge about MDR-TB amongst healthcare workers at the study site was not at an acceptable level. Unsafe practices, such as not wearing protective masks and not referring to the MDR-TB treatment guidelines, were found to be associated with an insufficient level of knowledge about MDR-TB. An educational intervention is recommended for all healthcare providers at this facility.
Raynaud′s phenomenon in a child with medulloblastoma as a late effect of chemotherapy
Authors: Atas Erman , Korkmazer Nadir , Artik Hatice A. , Babacan Oguzhan , Kesik Vural
Published: March 2015

There are a lot of early or late side effects of chemotherapies. One of them is Raynaud′s phenomenon (RP). Vascular toxicity associated with antineoplastic agents is notified in bleomycin alone therapy or in combination with cisplatin, vinblastine, and vincristine. The mechanism of RP associated with antineoplastic agents is unknown. All children receiving vinblastine, vincristine, bleomycin and cisplatin therapy, are followed and questioned about their complaint on RP. Long-term follow-up of surviving patients is recommended. Oncologists should be aware of the potential late toxic effects of antineoplastic drugs.
A Unique Case of Diffuse Metastatic Neuroendocrine Cancer with Subcutaneous Nodules on 18-F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computer Assisted Tomography
Authors: Johnston Mickaila , Sachedina Archana , McDonald James
Published: March 2015

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) account for 8-10% of cases of carcinomas of unknown primary. Most of these cases are poorly differentiated with metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis. However, cutaneous metastatic presentation is rare. We present an interesting case of a 74-year-old woman presenting with cutaneous metastatic involvement from high grade poorly differentiated NET of unknown origin. She was referred to us with a diagnosis of lymphoma. 18-F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computer assisted tomography imaging at our institution offered a differential diagnosis, including neuroendocrine cancer. Repeat skin lesion biopsy demonstrated "non-Merkel cell" carcinoma, favoring metastatic high-grade neuroendocrine carcinoma.
Nutrition in the neurocritical care unit
Authors: Tripathy Swagata
Published: March 2015

The aim of intensive care is to support the physiology of the body till the treatment or the reparative process of the body kicks in to the rescue. Maintaining an adequate nutrition during this period is of vital importance to counteract the catabolic effect of the critical disease process. The guidelines for nutritional care in the neuro intensive care unit (ICU) are sparse. This article collates the current evidence and best practice recommendations as applicable to the critically ill patient in the neuro ICU. The use of screening tests to identify patients at a risk of malnutrition and related complications is presently recommended for all patients with an emphasis on early initiation of caloric support. Over-aggressive feeding in an attempt to revert the catabolic effects of critical illness have not proven beneficial, just as the attempts to improve patient outcomes by altering the routes of nutrition administration. Special patient population such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, subarachnoid haemorrhage or spinal cord injury may have varying nutritional requirements; individualised approach in the neurocritical ICU with the help of the intensivist, nutritionist and pharmacology team may be of benefit.
Estimulação Elétrica Neuromuscular na Reabilitação da Disfagia Orofaríngea Neurogênica
Authors: Cola Paula Cristina , Dantas Roberto Oliveira , Silva Roberta Gonçalves da
Published: March 2015

Objetivo. Apresentar revisão de literatura sobre a eficácia da estimu­lação elétrica neuromuscular (EENM) na reabilitação da disfagia oro­faríngea neurogênica e comparar os métodos de terapia no acidente vascular cerebral (AVC). Método. Foi realizada revisão de literatura em diferentes bases de dados, como Medline, Scielo Brasil, Chile e Es­panha e Lilacs com as seguintes palavras-chave: transtornos de deglu­tição, terapia, estimulação elétrica, faringe e acidente cerebral vascular no período entre 1990 e 2011. Resultados. Os artigos utilizaram a EENM em populações heterogêneas, não havendo ainda consenso sobre o método utilizado e qual a eficácia da EENM na reabilitação de pacientes com disfagia orofaríngea neurogênica. Conclusão. Após este estudo, concluímos que são necessárias investigações futuras que envolvam grupos homogêneos de disfágicos neurogênicos e, que discutam a proposição de um protocolo específico de aplicação da EENM para a reabilitação da disfagia orofaríngea neurogênica.
Efeitos da fisioterapia aquática na deficiência visual: relato de caso
Authors: Marques Matheus Marques e , Neto Jorge Cutlac , Oliveira Nuno Miguel Lopes , Oliveira Carla Cristina Esteves , Ruas Gualberto , Shimano Suraya Gomes Novais
Published: March 2015

Objetivo. Avaliar os benefícios da fisioterapia aquática nas capacida­des musculoesqueléticas e cardiorrespiratórias e no índice de quali­dade de vida (QV) em um deficiente visual. Método. A amostra foi composta de um indivíduo portador de deficiência visual adquirida, de 50 anos, sem comprometimentos neuromusculoesqueléticos. Fo­ram utilizados: a dinamometria de preensão palmar para avaliação da força muscular de membros superiores, o teste de oito repetições má­ximas para os membros inferiores; o Banco de Wells para flexibilidade; o teste de velocidade de marcha para funcionalidade; a espirometria para força dos músculos inspiratórios e expiratórios e o questionário WHOQOL BREF para qualidade de vida. Após a construção de um protocolo de exercícios com comandos áudio-táteis, os mesmos foram aplicados por 12 semanas, duas vezes por semana, durante 60 minu­tos. Resultados. Aumento de 5,2% na força muscular de membros superiores e 30% de membros inferiores. O ganho de flexibilidade foi de 100%, refletindo em melhora de 25 milissegundos no teste de velocidade de marcha. A força muscular inspiratória obteve ganho de 57,1% a melhora de QV total foi de 5,7%. Conclusão. Um protocolo de hidrocinesioterapia adaptado a deficientes visuais foi eficaz na pro­moção de ganhos físico funcionais e de QV de um deficiente visual.
Спектральный метод и эргодические теоремы для общих цепей Маркова
Authors: Nagaev Sergey Victorovich
Published: March 2015

Изучаются эргодические свойства цепей Маркова с произвольным множеством возможных состояний. Доказывается теорема о геометрической эргодичности; метод доказательства является новым и может быть охарактеризован как операторный. Главным результатом является эргодическая теорема для харрисовских цепей Маркова в случае, когда математическое ожидание времени возвращения в некоторое фиксированное множество конечно. Условия, налагаемые при этом на переходную функцию, являются более общими, чем у Атрейя-Нея и Нуммелина. В отличие от последних, ограничения налагаются не на исходную переходную функцию, а на переходную функцию вложенной цепи Маркова, построенную по моментам возвращения в упомянутое выше фиксированное множество. Доказательство основано на спектральной теории линейных операторов в банаховом пространстве.
Библиография: 30 наименований.
Correlation between Cytology, HPV-DNA Test and Colposcopy in Evaluation of Cervical Intraepithelial Lesions
Authors: Nanda Anuja , Bansal Neeta , Gupta Vineeta , Sharma Arti , Tandon Archna , Singhal Mini
Published: March 2015

Objectives

The present study was undertaken to correlate cytology, HPV-DNA test and colposcopy in evaluation of cervical intraepithelial lesions.

Materials and methods

Patients were subjected to Pap smear, HPV-DNA detection, colposcopy and directed cervical biopsy if required. The various screening methods were correlated and evaluated by standard statistical methods.

Observations

A total of 324 patients were included in the study. Colposcopy was done in 263, Pap smear in 214, HPVDNA in 100 and HPE in 116 patients. Sensitivity and specificity of Pap smear test, colposcopy and HPV-DNA testing were calculated to be 66.66, 93.54, 86.84, 86.32, 90 and 84.61% respectively. Their positive predictive value and negative value were 75, 90.60, 67.34, 95.28, 69.23 and 95.66% respectively. The percentage of false negative and false positive were calculated to be 33.33, 6.45, 8.95, 13.67, 10 and 15.38% respectively.

Conclusion

Various screening methods for evaluation of cervical intraepithelial lesions are complimentary to each other and need to be carried out depending on the clinical findings, patient's convenience and compliance, facilities and set-up available.

How to cite this article

Gupta V, Tandon A, Nanda A, Sharma A, Bansal N, Singhal M. Correlation between Cytology, HPV-DNA Test and Colposcopy in Evaluation of Cervical Intraepithelial Lesions. J South Asian Feder Menopause Soc 2014;2(2):71-74.
Changes in milking parameters with robotic milking
Authors: Sitkowska B. , Piwczyński D. , Aerts J. , Waśkowicz M.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The aim of this present study is to describe changes occurring during the milking of cows in various periods following the introduction of an AMS (automatic milking system). The following cow milking parameters were analysed: milkings per cow per day, milking yield, milking speed and milking duration. An increase in milk yield in AMS barns has been found to be possible, but it is affected by a number of factors related to cow milking performance. Milk yield was observed to gradually grow with time after the installation of the robots. Older cows in their third and fourth lactations achieved higher milking parameter values as compared to cows in their first and second lactations. The average milk yield for the whole period was on a similar level, but, due to the fact that the duration of lactation in herd B was more than 100 days longer, that herd achieved a higher milk yield. The use of AMSs in barns enables farmers to monitor cow performance traits and study the relationships between them; farmers should try to select for traits ensuring high performance and directly related to milk yield. This study found a positive relationship between milking duration and milk yield. On the other hand, a highly negative relationship was found between milking duration and milking speed, which means that these parameters should be closely monitored. This study found that the optimal number of milkings per cow per day was in the range of 2.6 to 2.8 milkings a day with a 2.6 kg min−1 milking speed.
Stratospheric geoengineering impacts on El Niño/Southern Oscillation
Authors: Gabriel C. J. , Robock A.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. To examine the impact of proposed stratospheric geoengineering schemes on the amplitude and frequency of El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) variations we examine climate model simulations from the Geoengineering Model Intercomparison Project (GeoMIP) G1–G4 experiments. Here we compare tropical Pacific behavior under anthropogenic global warming (AGW) using the representative concentration pathway resulting in 4.5 W m−2 radiative forcing at the end of the 21st Century, the RCP4.5 scenario, with that under G1–G4 and under historical model simulations. Climate models under AGW project relatively uniform warming across the tropical Pacific over the next several decades. We find no statistically significant change in ENSO frequency or amplitude under stratospheric geoengineering as compared with those that would occur under ongoing AGW.
Springtime variability of lower tropospheric ozone over Eastern Asia: contributions of cyclonic activity and pollution as observed from space with IASI
Authors: Dufour G. , Eremenko M. , Cuesta J. , Doche C. , Foret G. , Beekmann M. , Cheiney A. , Wang Y. , Cai Z. , Liu Y. , Takigawa M. , Kanaya Y. , Flaud J.-M.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. We use satellite observations from IASI (Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer) on board the MetOp-A satellite to evaluate the springtime daily variability of lower tropospheric ozone at the scale of Eastern Asia. Lower tropospheric partial columns from surface to 6 km are retrieved from IASI with a maximum of sensitivity between 3 and 4 km. We focus our analysis on the month of May 2008 for which tropospheric ozone presents typically amongst the largest concentrations along the year. We combine IASI observations with meteorological reanalyses from ERA-Interim in order to investigate the processes that control the spatial and temporal distribution of lower tropospheric ozone, especially in case of ozone enhancement. The succession of low- and high-pressure systems drives the day-to-day variability of lower tropospheric ozone over North East Asia. The analysis of two episodes with ozone enhancement at the synoptic scale of East Asia shows that the reversible subsiding and ascending ozone transfers in the UTLS region occurring in the vicinity of low-pressure systems and related to tropopause height affect the upper and lower tropospheric ozone over large regions, especially north to 40° N and largely explain the ozone enhancement observed with IASI for these latitudes. Irreversible downward transport of ozone-rich air masses from the UTLS to the lower troposphere occurs more locally. Its contribution to the lower tropospheric ozone column is difficult to dissociate from the tropopause perturbations induced by the weather systems. For regions south to 40° N, a significant correlation between lower tropospheric ozone and carbon monoxide (CO) observations from IASI has been found, especially over North China Plain (NCP). Considering carbon monoxide observations as pollutant tracer, the O3-CO correlation indicates that the photochemical production of ozone from primary pollutants emitted over such large polluted regions significantly contributes to the ozone enhancements observed with IASI in the lower troposphere. When low-pressure systems circulate over NCP, stratospheric and pollution sources play a concomitant role in the ozone enhancements. Moreover, in that case, evidence of pollutant export from NCP towards the east is shown. Finally, we show that semi-independent columns of ozone from the surface up to 12 km associated with CO columns from IASI constitute a powerful observational dataset to investigate the processes controlling tropospheric enhancement of ozone at synoptic scales.
Radiative forcing and climate response to projected 21st century aerosol decreases
Authors: Westervelt D. M. , Horowitz L. W. , Naik V. , Mauzerall D. L.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. It is widely expected that global emissions of atmospheric aerosols and their precursors will decrease strongly throughout the remainder of the 21st century, due to emission reduction policies enacted to protect human health. For instance, global emissions of aerosols and their precursors are projected to decrease by as much as 80% by the year 2100, according to the four Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) scenarios. The removal of aerosols will cause unintended climate consequences, including an unmasking of global warming from long-lived greenhouse gases. We use the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory Climate Model version 3 (GFDL CM3) to simulate future climate over the 21st century with and without the aerosol emission changes projected by each of the RCPs in order to isolate the radiative forcing and climate response resulting from the aerosol reductions. We find that the projected global radiative forcing and climate response due to aerosol decreases do not vary significantly across the four RCPs by 2100, although there is some mid-century variation, especially in cloud droplet effective radius, that closely follows the RCP emissions and energy consumption projections. Up to 1 W m−2 of radiative forcing may be unmasked globally from 2005 to 2100 due to reductions in aerosol and precursor emissions, leading to average global temperature increases up to 1 K and global precipitation rate increases up to 0.09 mm d−1. Regionally and locally, climate impacts can be much larger, with a 2.1 K warming projected over China, Japan, and Korea due to the reduced aerosol emissions in RCP8.5, as well as nearly a 0.2 mm d−1 precipitation increase, a 7 g m−2 LWP decrease, and a 2 μm increase in cloud droplet effective radius. Future aerosol decreases could be responsible for 30–40% of total climate warming by 2100 in East Asia, even under the high greenhouse gas emissions scenario (RCP8.5). The expected unmasking of global warming caused by aerosol reductions will require more aggressive greenhouse gas mitigation policies than anticipated in order to meet desired climate targets.
Macroalgae contribute to nested mosaics of pH variability in a sub-Arctic fjord
Authors: Krause-Jensen D. , Duarte C. M. , Hendriks I. E. , Meire L. , Blicher M. E. , Marbà N. , Sejr M. K.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The Arctic Ocean is considered the most vulnerable ecosystem to ocean acidification (OA) and large-scale assessments of pH and the saturation state for aragonite (Ωarag) indicate that it is already close to corrosive states (Ωarag < 1). In high-latitude coastal waters the regulation of pH and Ωarag is far more complex than offshore because increased biological activity and input of glacial meltwater affect pH. As most calcifiers occupy coastal habitats, the assessment of risks from OA to these vulnerable organisms cannot be derived from extrapolation of current and forecasted offshore conditions, but requires an understanding of the regimes of pH and Ωarag in their coastal habitats. To increase knowledge of the natural variability of pH in the Arctic coastal zone and specifically to test the influence of benthic vegetated habitats, we quantified pH-variability in a Greenland fjord in a nested scale approach. A sensor array logging pH, O2, PAR, temperature and salinity was applied on spatial scales ranging from km-scale across the horizontal extension of the fjord, over 100 m scale vertically in the fjord, 10–100 m scale between subtidal habitats with and without kelp forests and between vegetated tidal pools and adjacent vegetated shores, to cm-m scale within kelp forests and mm-scale across boundary layers of macrophyte tissue. In addition, we assessed the temporal variability in pH on diurnal and seasonal scales. Based on pH-measurements combined with relationships between salinity, total alkalinity and dissolved inorganic carbon we also estimated variability of Ωarag. Results show variability in pH and Ωarag of up to 0.2–0.3 units at several scales, i.e. along the horizontal and vertical extension of the fjord, between seasons and on a diel basis in benthic habitats and within 1 m3 of kelp forest. Vegetated intertidal pools exhibited extreme diel pH variability of > 1.5 units and macrophyte boundary layers a pH-range of up to 0.8 units. Overall, Ωarag was favorable to calcification, and pelagic and benthic metabolism was an important driver of pH and Ωarag producing mosaics of variability from low levels in the dark to peak levels at high irradiance. We suggest that productive coastal environments may form niches of high pH in a future acidified Arctic Ocean.
Radiative forcing by forest and subsequent feedbacks in the early Eocene climate
Authors: Port U. , Claussen M. , Brovkin V.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Using the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology Earth System Model, we investigate the forcing of forests and the feedback triggered by forests in the pre-industrial climate and in the early Eocene climate (about 54 to 52 million years ago). Other than the interglacial, pre-industrial climate, the early Eocene climate was characterised by high temperatures which led to almost ice-free poles. We compare simulations in which all continents are covered either by dense forest or by bare soil. To isolate the effect of soil albedo, we choose either bright soils or dark soils, respectively. Considering bright soil, forests warm in both, the early Eocene climate and the current climate, but the warming differs due to differences in climate feedbacks. The lapse-rate and water-vapour feedback is stronger in early Eocene climate than in current climate, but strong and negative cloud feedbacks and cloud masking in the early Eocene climate outweigh the stronger positive lapse-rate and water-vapour feedback. In the sum, global mean warming is weaker in the early Eocene climate. Sea-ice related feedbacks are weak in the almost ice-free climate of the early Eocene leading to a weak polar amplification. Considering dark soil, our results change. Forests cools stronger in the early Eocene climate than in the current climate because the lapse-rate and water-vapour feedback is stronger in the early Eocene climate while cloud feedbacks and cloud masking are equally strong in both climates. The different temperature change by forest in both climates highlights the state-dependency of vegetation's impact on climate.
Network response to internal and external perturbations in large sand-bed braided rivers
Authors: Schuurman F. , Kleinhans M.G. , Middelkoop H.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The intrinsic instability of bars, bifurcations and branches in large braided rivers is a challenge to understand and predict. Even more, the reach-scale effect of human-induced perturbations on the braided channel network is still unresolved. In this study, we used a physics-based model to simulate the hydromorphodynamics in a large braided river and applied different types of perturbations. We analyzed the propagation of the perturbations through the braided channel network. The results showed that the perturbations initiate an instability that propagates in downstream direction by means of bifurcation instability. It alters and rotates the approaching flow of the bifurcations. The propagation celerity is in the same order of magnitude as the theoretical sand wave propagation rate. The adjustments of the bifurcations also change bar migration and reshape, with a feedback to the upstream bifurcation and alteration of the approaching flow to the downstream bifurcation. This way, the morphological effect of a perturbation amplifies in downstream direction. Thus, the interplay of bifurcation instability and asymmetrical reshaping of bars was found to be essential for propagation of the effects of a perturbation. The study also demonstrated that the large-scale bar statistics are hardly affected.
RRAWFLOW: Rainfall-Response Aquifer and Watershed Flow Model (v1.15)
Authors: Long A. J.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The Rainfall-Response Aquifer and Watershed Flow Model (RRAWFLOW) is a lumped-parameter model that simulates streamflow, spring flow, groundwater level, or solute transport for a measurement point in response to a system input of precipitation, recharge, or solute injection. I introduce the first version of RRAWFLOW available for download and public use and describe additional options. The open-source code is written in the R language and is available at http://sd.water.usgs.gov/projects/RRAWFLOW/RRAWFLOW.html along with an example model of streamflow. RRAWFLOW includes a time-series process to estimate recharge from precipitation and simulates the response to recharge by convolution, i.e., the unit-hydrograph approach. Gamma functions are used for estimation of parametric impulse-response functions (IRFs); a combination of two gamma functions results in a double-peaked IRF. A spline fit to a set of control points is introduced as a new method for estimation of nonparametric IRFs. Several options are included to simulate time-variant systems. For many applications, lumped models simulate the system response with equal accuracy to that of distributed models, but moreover, the ease of model construction and calibration of lumped models makes them a good choice for many applications (e.g., estimating missing periods in a hydrologic record). RRAWFLOW provides professional hydrologists and students with an accessible and versatile tool for lumped-parameter modeling.
Towards ecosystem accounting: a comprehensive approach to modelling multiple hydrological ecosystem services
Authors: Duku C. , Rathjens H. , Zwart S. J. , Hein L.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Ecosystem accounting is an emerging field that aims to provide a consistent approach to analysing environment-economy interactions. In spite of the progress made in mapping and quantifying hydrological ecosystem services, several key issues must be addressed if ecohydrological modelling approaches are to be aligned with ecosystem accounting. They include modelling hydrological ecosystem services with adequate spatiotemporal detail and accuracy at aggregated scales to support ecosystem accounting, distinguishing between service capacity and service flow, and linking ecohydrological processes to the supply of dependent hydrological ecosystem services. We present a spatially explicit approach, which is consistent with ecosystem accounting, for mapping and quantifying service capacity and service flow of multiple hydrological ecosystem services. A grid-based setup of a modified Soil Water and Assessment Tool (SWAT), SWAT Landscape, is first used to simulate the watershed ecohydrology. Model outputs are then post-processed to map and quantify hydrological ecosystem services and to set up biophysical ecosystem accounts. Trend analysis statistical tests are conducted on service capacity accounts to track changes in the potential to provide service flows. Ecohydrological modelling to support ecosystem accounting requires appropriate decisions regarding model process inclusion, physical and mathematical representation, spatial heterogeneity, temporal resolution, and model accuracy. We demonstrate this approach in the Upper Ouémé watershed in Benin. Our analyses show that integrating hydrological ecosystem services in an ecosystem accounting framework provides relevant information on ecosystems and hydrological ecosystem services at appropriate scales suitable for decision-making. Our analyses further identify priority areas important for maintaining hydrological ecosystem services as well as trends in hydrological ecosystem services supply over time.
Estimation of three-dimensional crustal movements in the 2011 Tohoku-Oki, Japan, earthquake from TerraSAR-X intensity images
Authors: Liu W. , Yamazaki F. , Matsuoka M. , Nonaka T. , Sasagawa T.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The Tohoku-Oki earthquake on 11 March 2011 caused significant widespread crustal movements. In a previous study, we proposed a method for capturing two-dimensional (2-D) surface displacements from a pair of pre- and post-event TerraSAR-X (TSX) intensity images. However, it is impossible to detect three-dimensional (3-D) displacements from one pair of TSX images. In this study, three pairs of pre- and post-event TSX images taken on different paths were used to estimate 3-D crustal movements. The relationship between the actual 3-D displacements and the converted 2-D movements in the synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) images was derived based on the observation model of a SAR sensor. The 3-D movements were then calculated from three sets of detected 2-D movements that occurred within a short time period. Compared with GPS observations, the proposed method was found to be capable of detecting the 3-D crustal movements with sub-pixel accuracy.
Do Traffic Controllers Dream of Electric Cars?
Authors: Taylor Nicholas
Published: March 2015

Traffic congestion is not a modern phenomenon, but the growth of motor traffic driven by the supply of petroleum is. This coincides with concern about climate change caused by carbon emissions to which transport makes a substantial and increasing contribution. It seems that private cars in particular cannot be useful without coming to dominate human activity and even whole economies, creating dependence, congestion and severance which paradoxically negate many of the benefits of mobility. Electrification may reduce carbon emissions, but is unlikely to support the same weight of motor traffic, and will not reduce its other effects. It is doubtful that sustainability, however defined, is compatible with current high and increasing levels of motorised movement, so a culture change will be needed.
Desarrollo humano, cultura de la diversidad y cultura de la paz
Authors: Castillo Pérez Nydia María
Published: March 2015

El presente trabajo aborda la dimensión integral del desarrollo humano, entendido como un desarrollo armónico que busca mejorar la calidad de vida y de oportunidades para los sectores sociales menos favorecidos. Se valora la cultura de la diversidad como medio facilitador de la inserción del otro a partir de sus propias diferencias. El desarrollo humano implica luchar por la justicia económica y social, por el medio ambiente sostenible, por la democracia, por los derechos humanos, por la diversidad cultural, por los derechos culturales y por el desarrollo que respeta la cultura. Con esta perspectiva, la cultura de paz encuentra posibilidades de crecer y desarrollar las capacidades de cada quien. Este estudio se centra en la educación como una dimensión del desarrollo humano, lo que significa la capacidad de educación implícita en el enfoque de Amartya Sen, donde esta se entiende como un derecho fundamental, reconocido en la Declaración Universal de los Derechos Humanos(ONU, 1948). En ese contexto, la educación es un objetivo en sí mismo; es desarrollo humano, ya que constitutiva y constructivamente, forma parte de los procesos que apuntan a mejorar las capacidades humanas.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/cultura.v20i64.1870 Cultura de Paz Vol.20 Num.64 2015: 4-9
Reflexiones sobre factores que inciden en la negociación
Authors: Sequeira Byron
Published: March 2015

La negociación como método de resolución alterna de conflictos manifiesta la utilidad práctica de la cultura de paz. Ratifica lo relacionado al poder de la palabra y por lo tanto, el dialogo es la mejor expresión de ello. En algunas ocasiones se estigmatiza esta figura y tiende a ser evitada por la existencia de algunos prejuicios que son resultados de las construcciones sociales alrededor de la misma. Sin embargo, la experiencia nos ha dicho que mientras apliquemos algunas recomendaciones en lo referente al desenvolvimiento de los sujetos antes y durante la negociación, las probabilidades de alcanzar un acuerdo aumentan. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/cultura.v20i64.1873 Cultura de Paz Vol.20 Num.64 2015: 17-20
El Estado Palestino: necesidad y solución
Authors: Saadat Mohamed
Published: March 2015

Hablar del conflicto en el Medio Oriente significa hablar de más de 66 años de guerras y masacres. Un conflicto en el que una minoría extranjera inmigrante expulsa y desplaza al pueblo originario de su tierra y establece un Estado extranjero invasor. Significa hablar de refugiados, prisioneros, asentamientos, muros, justicia internacional, protección a la ley internacional y responsabilidad de la comunidad internacional ante los derechos del pueblo palestino.Estos son temas que nos obligan a buscar una solución justa y definitiva a este conflicto, algo que la mayor parte de la comunidad internacional exige, sobre todo después de las últimas y criminales masacres cometidas por parte de Israel en la Franja de Gaza.En este caso específico, hablar de soluciones no significa hablar de posibilidades sino de derechos, necesidades, obligaciones y valores humanos.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/cultura.v20i64.1874 Cultura de Paz Vol.20 Num.64 2015: 25-33
“Metáfora de cuadro”
Authors: Amador Yomi
Published: March 2015

La expresión plástica de Yomi va más allá de técnicas y experimentos, es innegable su compromiso con la preservación del medio ambiente su sensibilidad la hace transformar desechos en verdaderas obras de arte las que reflejan una ternura exquisita para expresar su amor por la naturaleza. Cada pintura es como un poema que sugiere promover la necesidad de educar y conservar cada hábitat en riesgo.Wayne Arendt-PhDInvestigador de la vida salvajeOrnitólogoInstituto International of Tropical ForestryDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/cultura.v20i64.1875Cultura de Paz Vol.20 Num.64 2015
“Candor de Liróforo”
Authors: Buitrago Orlando
Published: March 2015

Orlando Buitrago ha logrado a lo largo de su carrera aportar nuevos brillos al arte nicaragüense, después de verlo realizar regionalismo, se destaca con sus indios gordos a plumilla, con trazos garabateados, creando así un nuevo estilo de dibujo adoptado en la década de los 90, con sus imágenes al óleo y collage de tela sobre tela. Estas imágenes representan la metalización social y la contaminación del medioambiente que a través de posturas sociales del capitalismo salvaje influyen en un mundo de doble moral, más frío que el hielo, siendo una manera personal de protestar por las injusticias que es el pan nuestro de cada día.Ha ganado premios y reconocimientos en el país y en Estados Unidos. Sus pinturas se encuentran en “Galería El Pintor”, de la cual es propietario, donde dichas obras salen a diferentes partes del mundo (Galería El Pintor está ubicada en Managua, 2do. piso del Aeropuerto Internacional “Augusto C. Sandino”).Manuel GonzálezArtista plástico nicaragüenseDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/cultura.v20i64.1878Cultura de Paz Vol.20 Num.64 2015
Rubén Darío: La angustia, una apertura del mundo
Authors: Silva Erwin
Published: March 2015

El presente artículo consiste en un breve análisis ontológico de la angustia en algunos poemas de Rubén Darío, en particular de algunos textos y formas de composición relevante en los que se muestran las preocupaciones y problemas de la existencia humana como el tiempo, la muerte, el dolor y la nada que revela la angustia.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/cultura.v20i64.1879Cultura de Paz Vol.20 Num.64 2015: 34-37
"Aguardiente, forever" de Hildebrando Pérez Grande
Authors: Editores Hipocampo
Published: March 2015

Selección de poemas de de "Aguardiente, forever".DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/cultura.v20i64.1880Cultura de Paz Vol.20 Num.64 2015: 38-43
La pintura primitivista de Carlos García
Authors: Valle Castillo Julio
Published: March 2015

El pintor se especializa en la técnica oleo sobre tela. Desde corta edad  incursionó en la pintura primitivista gracias a la influencia artística del sacerdote trapense Ernesto Cardenal. Un hecho que marcaría su obra, ha sido que Carlos tuvo un accidente ocular y desde entonces su perspectiva de la vida se reflejan de una manera especial en su arte, utilizando árboles talados a mitad o no representando el árbol en su totalidad dentro del lienzo.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/cultura.v20i64.1881Cultura de Paz Vol.20 Num.64 2015: 44
Lab-on-a-Tip (LOT): Where Nanotechnology Can Revolutionize Fibre Optics
Authors: Quan Qimin , Zhang Yiying
Published: March 2015

Recently developed lab-on-a-chip technologies integrate multiple traditional assays on a single chip with higher sensitivity, faster assay time, and more streamlined sample operation. We discuss the prospects of the lab-on-a-tip platform, where assays can be integrated on a miniaturized tip for in situ and in vivo analysis. It will resolve some of the limitations of available lab-on-a-chip platforms and enable next generation multifunctional in vivo sensors, as well as analytical techniques at the single cell or even sub-cellular levels.
Missing the Promise Of Mathematical Modeling
Authors: Meyer Dan
Published: March 2015

Textbooks offer some opportunities to practice modeling, but we can do more for students to experience where mathematics and science meet.
Smarter Cookies
Authors: Strayer Jeremy F. , Edwards Michael Todd
Published: March 2015

An inquiry-based project to examine statistical claims encourages students to become more savvy media consumers.
Dot Tag and Representational Fluency
Authors: Showalter Daniel A.
Published: March 2015

Students strengthen their ability to translate between algebraic and graphical representations while enjoying the game Dot Tag.
Area Conceptions Sprout on Earth Day
Authors: Wickstrom Megan H. , Nelson Julie , Chumbley Jean
Published: March 2015

Within the context of gardening, students examine rectangles with the same perimeter to see if and how their areas differ.
Oral Language Needs: Making Math Meaningful
Authors: Pace Michelle H. , Ortiz Enrique
Published: March 2015

A mathematics vocabulary strategy helps kindergartners form real-world connections.
Coping Strategies Adopted by Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease in Preparation for Transplant
Authors: Kohlsdorf Marina
Published: March 2015

Aim

This paper aimed to analyze the coping strategies adopted by patients in preparation to kidney transplant, as well as associations between coping and socio-demographic data.

Method

A total of 76 patients took part in this descriptive, exploratory study. While waiting for the first medical consultation regarding kidney transplantation, participants answered the Brazilian version of the Ways of Coping Scale.

Results

The main coping strategies adopted corresponded first to religiosity, then problem focused coping and seeking for social support. There were statistically significant associations between coping categories and gender, marital status, monthly income, children’s ages, and time in dialysis.

Conclusion

This study highlights the main coping strategies adopted by patients in preparation to kidney transplant, and it also reveals associations between some socio-demographic data and coping. These results may promote further psychosocial interventions, which may help to improve preparation to kidney transplants, promoting better adaptation and treatment adherence as well as fewer psychological burdens.
Sleep and the Social Matrix: Determinants of Health Status Beyond Objective Social Status
Authors: Ogbeide Stacy A. , Neumann Christopher A.
Published: March 2015

Aim

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between subjective social status (SSS) and objective socioeconomic status (SES) on sleep status (sleep duration and daytime sleepiness).

Method

The study sample included 73 primary care patients from a free medical clinic in which low-income individuals are primarily treated. Subjective social status was measured using the MacArthur Scale of Subjective Social Status which uses a pictorial format (social ladder) in order to assess current social status. Socioeconomic status was measured by assessing highest level of education and current income level.

Results

Community SSS did not significantly predict sleep duration or daytime sleepiness. Additional regression analyses were conducted and it was found that an overall model of U.S. SSS and community SSS significantly predicted perceived stress. Community SSS was found to be significantly associated with perceived stress. Regression results also indicated that an overall model of U.S. SSS and community SSS significantly predicted perceived health status.

Conclusion

It may be beneficial for clinicians working with low-income primary care populations to include measures of SSS in addition to the traditional measures of SES for multidimensional patient care.
Peligrosidad de heladas por inversión térmica en la huerta de Murcia
Authors: Espín Sánchez David
Published: March 2015

En el Sureste peninsular son frecuentes las situaciones anticiclónicas alimentadas en
invierno por advecciones de aire polares/árticas continentales. Bajo estas condiciones, las
cuencas y valles fluviales intrabéticos son bastante proclives al desarrollo de inversiones
térmicas. Un claro ejemplo lo constituye la Vega Media del Segura en los meses de invierno.
En el presente artículo se analizan tales factores y las situaciones de inversión térmica más
importantes registradas en esta Vega durante el período 2000-2013. Como complemento al
estudio, se realiza una propuesta de cartografía de peligrosidad de heladas en la Huerta de
Murcia para los diferentes meses invernales.
Palabras claves: Inversión térmica, anticiclón,
El abejaruco (merops apiaster l., aves: meropidae) y el sector apícola de la Región de Murcia (SE España): percepción de su impacto y modelo ecogeográfico de distribución
Authors: Farinós Pablo , Zapata Victor M. , Martínez-López Vicente , Jiménez Mª Victoria , Robledano Francisco
Published: March 2015

Se analiza desde una perspectiva ecogeográfica el riesgo de predación del abejaruco (Merops apiaster) sobre la abeja melífera (Apis mellifera), para evaluar la percepción de su impacto sobre los colmenares por el sector apícola de la Región de Murcia. Para ello, se realizaron encuestas a apicultores y se elaboró una cartografía regional de idoneidad de hábitat a partir de modelos de distribución de nicho ecológico (ENFA), teniendo en cuenta registros de presencia obtenidos en el campo. Los resultados son compatibles con la proximidad entre colmenas y aves, lo que explica la percepción de un alto riesgo de predación. Se proponen estrategias para mitigar el posible impacto de la predación a través de la relocalización de colmenares en los hábitats y paisajes que los acogen.
Exposing the gaps in awareness, knowledge and estimation of risk for anal cancer in men who have sex with men living with HIV: a cross‐sectional survey in Australia
Authors: Ong Jason J , Chen Marcus , Grulich Andrew , Walker Sandra , Temple‐Smith Meredith , Bradshaw Catriona , Garland Suzanne M , Hillman Richard , Templeton David , Hocking Jane , Eu Beng , Tee BK , Fairley Christopher K
Published: March 2015

Introduction

The incidence of anal cancer is significantly higher in men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV when compared to the general population. We aimed to assess their awareness, knowledge and perceived level of personal risk for anal cancer to help inform educational strategies targeting this group.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of 327 HIV positive MSM in Melbourne, Australia, attending clinical settings (a sexual health centre, tertiary hospital HIV outpatients and high HIV caseload general practices) completed a written questionnaire in 2013/14. Poor knowledge was defined as those who had never heard of anal cancer, or scored 5 or less out of 10 in knowledge questions amongst those who reported ever hearing about anal cancer. Underestimation of risk was defined as considering themselves as having the same or lower risk for anal cancer compared to the general population.

Results

Of 72% (95% confidence interval (CI): 67–77) who had heard of anal cancer, 47% (95% CI: 41–53) could not identify any risk factors for anal cancer. Of total men surveyed, 51% (95% CI: 46–57) underestimated their risk for anal cancer. Multivariate analysis showed that men who underestimated their risk were older (OR 1.04 (per year increase in age), 95% CI: 1.01–1.07), had poor anal cancer knowledge (OR 2.06, 95% CI: 1.21–3.51), and more likely to have ever had an anal examination (OR 2.41, 95% CI: 1.18–4.93). They were less likely to consult a physician if they had an anal abnormality (OR 0.54, 95% CI: 0.31–0.96), to have had receptive anal sex (OR 0.12, 95% CI: 0.02–0.59) or speak English at home (OR 0.28, 95% CI: 0.09–0.90).

Conclusions

This survey of MSM living with HIV demonstrated limited awareness, knowledge level and estimation of risk for anal cancer. Further educational and public health initiatives are urgently needed to improve knowledge and understanding of anal cancer risk in MSM living with HIV.
Genetic basis of sRNA quantitative variation analyzed using an experimental population derived from an elite rice hybrid
Authors: Wang Jia , Yao Wen , Zhu Dan , Xie Weibo , Zhang Qifa
Published: March 2015

We performed a genetic analysis of sRNA abundance in flag leaf from an immortalized F2 (IMF2) population in rice. We identified 53,613,739 unique sRNAs and 165,797 sRNA expression traits (s-traits). A total of 66,649 s-traits mapped 40,049 local-sQTLs and 30,809 distant-sQTLs. By defining 80,362 sRNA clusters, 22,263 sRNA cluster QTLs (scQTLs) were recovered for 20,249 of all the 50,139 sRNA cluster expression traits (sc-traits). The expression levels for most of s-traits from the same genes or the same sRNA clusters were slightly positively correlated. While genetic co-regulation between sRNAs from the same mother genes and between sRNAs and their mother genes was observed for a portion of the sRNAs, most of the sRNAs and their mother genes showed little co-regulation. Some sRNA biogenesis genes were located in distant-sQTL hotspots and showed correspondence with specific length classes of sRNAs suggesting their important roles in the regulation and biogenesis of the sRNAs.