bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Approaches to learning as predictors of academic achievement: Results from a large scale, multi-level analysis
Authors: Herrmann Kim J. , McCune Velda , Bager-Elsborg Anna
Published: July 2017

The relationships between university students’ academic achievement and their approaches to learning and studying continuously attract scholarly attention. We report the results of an analysis in which multilevel linear modelling was used to analyse data from 3,626 Danish university students. Controlling for the effects of age, gender, and progression, we found that the students’ end-of-semester grade point averages were related negatively to a surface approach and positively to organised effort. Interestingly, the effect of the surface approach on academic achievement varied across programmes. While there has been considerable interest in the ways in which academic programmes shape learning and teaching, the effects of these contexts on the relationship between approaches to learning and academic outcomes is under-researched.  The results are discussed in relation to findings from recent meta-analyses in the field.
The Survival Strategy of Households Affected by Tidal Floods: The Cases of Two Villages in the Pekalongan Coastal Area
Authors: Harini Rika , Susilo Bowo , Sarastika Tiara , Supriyati S , Satriagasa M C , Ariani Rina Dwi
Published: July 2017

Pekalongan is one of the coastal areas of Java Island that is affected by tidal floods. Tidal floods have various impacts on the social and economic conditions of the community, thus affecting their livelihoods. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of a tidal flood, the socioeconomic characteristics of the community and the survival approach of coastal communities in Pekalongan. This study was conducted using a purposive sampling method in two villages in Pekalongan Regency, namely Jeruksari Village and Tegaldowo Village, because these two areas are affected by tidal floods. The study was conducted by using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs), as well as structured interviews. The structured interview sample consisted of 60 respondents who were selected at random using quota sampling. The analysis was using qualitative-descriptive and quantitative methods. The gathered data were then presented in tables, diagrams and maps. The results showed that tidal floods resulted in physical, economic, sociocultural, health, educational, and environmental damages to the communities in both villages. The majority of the community members only have an elementary school education and primarily work as labourers. There is a difference in the amount of family income between the two villages, where the average family in Jeruksari Village has a higher income (IDR 3,465,300 per month) than the average family in Tegaldowo Village with total household income of about IDR 2 million per month. The most frequently used approach for survival in both villages is what is known as the survival strategy, i.e. a strategy to meet the needs of life at a minimum level to survive.
Tooth Color Detection Using PCA and KNN Classifier Algorithm Based on Color Moment
Authors: . Justiawan , Sigit Riyanto , Arief Zainal
Published: July 2017

Matching the suitable color for tooth reconstruction is an important step that can make difficulties for the dentists due to the subjective factorsÂ  of color selection. Accurate color matching system is mainly result based on images analyzing and processing techniques of recognition system. Â This system consist of three parts, which are data collection from digital teeth color images, data preparation for taking color analysis technique and extracting the features, and data classification involve feature selection for reducing the features number of this system. The teeth images which is used in this research are 16 types of teeth that are taken from RSGM UNAIR SURABAYA. Feature extraction is taken by the characteristics of the RGB, HSV and LAB based on the color moment calculation such as mean, standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis parameter. Due to many formed features from each color space, it is required addition method for reducing the number of features by choosing the essential information like Principal Component Analysis (PCA) method. Combining the PCA feature selection technique to the clasification process using K Nearest Neighbour (KNN) classifierÂ  algorithm can be improved the accuracy performance of this system. On the experiment result, it showed that only usingÂ  KNN classifier achieve accuracy percentage up to 97.5 % in learning process and 92.5 % in testing process while combining PCA with KNN classifier can reduce the 36 features to the 26 features which can improve the accuracy percentage up to 98.54 % in learning process and Â 93.12% in testing process. Adding PCA as the feature selection method can be improved the accuracy performance of this color matching system with little number of features.Â
A Similarity-Ranking Method on Semantic Computing for Providing Information-Services in Station-Concierge System
Authors: Yokoyama Motoki , Kiyoki Yasushi , Mita Tetsuya
Published: July 2017

The prevalence of smartphones and wireless broadband networks have been progressing as a new Railway infomration environment.ã€€According to the spread of such devices and information technology, various types of information can be obtained from databases connected to the Internet. One scenario of obtaining such a wide variety of information resources is in the phase of userâ€™s transportation. This paper proposes an information provision system, named the Station Concierge System that matches the situation and intention of passengers. The purpose of this system is to estimate the needs of passengers like station staff or hotel concierge and to provide information resources that satisfy userâ€™s expectations dynamically. The most important module of the system is constructed based on a new information ranking method for passenger intention prediction and service recommendation. This method has three main features, which are (1) projecting a user to semantic vector space by using her current context, (2) predicting the intention of a user based on selecting a semantic vector subspace, and (3) ranking the services by a descending order of relevant scores to the userâ€™ intention. By comparing the predicted results of our method with those of two straightforward computation methods, the experimental studies show the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed method. Using this system, users can obtain transit information and service map that dynamically matches their context.
The Multifactorial Pastor-Stambaugh model: explaining the impact of liquidity on the rate of return based on the example of the Warsaw Stock Exchange
Authors: Gniadkowska-Szymańska Agata
Published: July 2017

Research background: The liquidity of assets in the financial market is under-stood gener-ally as costs, and the easiest way in which different types of assets can be converted into cash, or to put it simply, sold at the currently available price on the market. For a considerable period of time this category had not been duly considered in the framework of modern finance theory. As a result, a number of basic models constructed within the framework of this theory in its classical form did not include problems with liquidity. This applies to a number of aspects related to liquidity, with one of the most important being the relationship between the liquidity of trading in shares and the results obtained from these rates of return.Purpose of the article: The aim of the article is to determine whether the rate of return on shares increases with the increase in share liquidity and the incremental rate of return on this account decreases with increasing liquidity. The applied re-search methodology is similar to that described by Pastor and Stambaugh (2003). The model used in the empirical study is the expanded model of Fama and Francha (1993) for the liquidity factor.Methods: In this paper I present various factors which will affect the liquidity. The paper will also provide the results of research concerning the relations between spread and stock return on the Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE). The evidence drawn from WSE stock returns over the period 2004?2012 indicates that Amihuda measure and other variables have a significant effect on stock return using the multifactorial Pastor-Stambaugh.Findings & Value added: In the case of the Polish market, it can be stated that in the analysis based on the Pastor-Stambaugh model not all the variables included in this model are statistically significant. However, directional parameters associated with liquidity risk were statistically significant in all analyzed periods, which allows us to confirm the hypothesis that liquidity has a significant influence on the rate of return on shares listed on the Stock Exchange in Warsaw.
Short-term fiscal imbalance comparison in V4 countries using a dynamic conditional correlation approach
Authors: Mihóková Lucia , Martinková Slavomíra , Dráb Radovan
Published: July 2017

Research background: The crisis periods have highlighted the interdependence between individual European economies in the area of economic and fiscal development. The common development tendencies raise the question whether the fiscal indebtedness and preferred fiscal policy of V4 countries can be considered as interdepending. Considering this assumption, a possibility for implementing a similar type of consolidation in selected clusters of countries could be proposed.Purpose of the article: The research is, from the empirical point of view, focused on the analysis and comparison of primary balance indicator, analysis and assessment of fiscal measures (in identified fiscal episodes) and analysis of fiscal development intercorrelations using the dynamic conditional correlation approach.Methods: The empirical assessment of the research objective is, from the methodological point of view, divided into five phases: (1) the calculation of primary deficit indicator, (2) the analysis, comparison and assessment of the fiscal development in the V4 countries based on the annual primary deficit during the selected period 1999?2016, (3) the seasonal adjustment of performing time series and non-stationarity testing, (4) the dynamic conditional correlation approach (DCC) application. Within the analysis, the traditional and specific methods were used (time series analysis, content analysis, descriptive statistics, correlation methods, DCC approach).Findings & Value added: The results of the research suggest that between V4 countries do exist significant differences based on which cannot be clearly confirmed the assumption about the fiscal development interdependence in V4 countries. From the long-term perspective, it can be stated that the fiscal development in V4 countries is a very slightly positively related aspect, but in the context of the implementation of a common consolidation strategy it is not sufficient.
The forecasts-based instrument rule and decision making. How closely interlinked? The case of Sweden
Authors: Tura-Gawron Karolina
Published: July 2017

Research background: The Central Bank of Sweden declared in years 1999?2006 the implementation of the Svensson?s concept of inflation forecast targeting (IFT). It means that the repo rate decision-making process depends on the inflation fore-casts. The concept evolved from the strict IFT with the decision-making algorithm called ?the rule of thumb? to the flexible IFT.Purpose of the article: The aim of the article is to: (1) analyze the influence of the inflation rate and GDP growth rate on the repo rate decisions, (2) analyze the influence of the inflation rate and GDP growth rate forecasts (in two year horizon) on the repo rate decisions in Sweden in years 1999?2006.Methods: The analysis encompasses the repo rates decisions, CPI inflation rate, GDP growth rate, central paths of CPI inflation forecasts and central paths of GDP growth rate forecasts (the mode values) in the two years horizon published by The Central Bank of Sweden in years 1999?2006. The studies are based on the Taylor-type instrument rule and forecast-based Taylor-type instrument rule. The methodology used is multiple linear regression models.Findings & Value added: The Central Bank of Sweden in years 1999?2006 implemented direct inflation forecast targeting (DIFT) rule. The decision-making algorithm was based on the CPI inflation forecasts and the rule of the thumb algorithm. The exact rule of the thumb was as follow: if the inflation forecast, in the two year forecast?s horizon exceeded the infla-tion target by 1 p.p., then the central bank raised the repo rate by 0.4 p.p; if it was below it, then the central bank reduced the repo rate by 0.4 p.p. If the inflation forecast was equal to the inflation target, then the repo rate remained unchanged. The historical repo rates differ from the theoretical estimated rule of the thumb?s repo rates by +/-0.28 p.p.
Development of autopoietic economic structures in the Baltic states: analysis of factors
Authors: Morkunas Mangirdas , Skvarciany Viktorija , Titko Jelena
Published: July 2017

Research background: Since the introduction of the concept in 1972 Autopoiesis has enjoyed great popularity among academicians representing various fields of science. However, the number of studies devoted to the investigation of factors that have an impact on the formation of autopoietic economic structures is quite limited. This paper addresses the gap in scientific research on autopoiesis of economic structures in small open markets, specifically in the Baltic States.Purpose of the article: The paper aims to identify and evaluate factors that turn on self-organization mechanisms of autopoietic economic structures in the Baltic States, in particular in Latvia.Methods: Expert survey was used to identify the most important factors affecting the for-mation of meso-economic entities in the Baltic States. The factors? assessments provided by seven experts were analyzed. Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) with fuzzy numbers was employed to process the data. Two different scales of evaluation (inverse linear and balanced) were used.Findings & Value added: The factors influencing the process of formation of business groups were evaluated by experts. Research results allow for making conclusions regarding the causes of the business integration, and impact of diversified integrated business structures on the country's business system in Central Europe.
European myriad of approaches to parasitic commercial practices
Authors: MacGregor Pelikánová Radka
Published: July 2017

Research background: The Post-Lisbon EU aims at smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth on the single internal market, as indicated by the Europe 2020. The interplay of the competition and consumer protection on such a market is subject to harmonization. The Unfair Commercial Practices Directive has been made in order to achieve a full harmonization in this respect in 2007. However, EU member states share different social, political, legal and economic traditions and their approaches to unfair competition, in particular if committed via parasitic commercial practices, are dramatically diverse. In such a context, is it feasible, effective and efficient to install a full harmonization?Purpose of the article: The primary purpose of this article is to describe and assess ap-proaches to unfair competition, in particular if committed via parasitic commercial practices, by the EU law and EU member states law. The secondary purpose is to study and evaluate possibilities for the feasible, effective and efficient harmonization, or their lack. Methods: The cross-disciplinary and multi-jurisdictional nature of this article, and its dual purposes, implies the use of Meta-Analysis, of the critical comparison of laws and the impact of their application, to the holistic perception of historical and national contexts, and to case studies. The primary and secondary sources are explored and the yield knowledge and data are confronted with the status quo. The dominating qualitative research and data are complemented by the quantitative research and data.Findings & Value added: The EU opted for an ambitious challenge to install via the Unfair Commercial Practices Directive a full harmonization of the regime against unfair commercial practices, including parasitic ones. The exploration pursuant to the duo of purposes suggests that the challenge is perhaps too ambitious and that the EU underestimated the dramatic diversity of approaches to unfair commercial practices, especially parasitic ones.
Consumer attitudes in the light of the concept of sustainable consumption in Lubuskie voivodeship against the background of trends in consumption in Poland
Authors: Kułyk Piotr , Michałowska Mariola , Patelska Monika
Published: July 2017

Research background: The article has addressed the issue of sustainable consumption, which is becoming increasingly important on account of the adverse social and environmental consequences caused by the development and growth of societies. Sustainable consumption encourages to make rational choices and take responsibility for one's choices. Consumers take a number of decisions every day that affect not only them, but also cause externalities. There are many studies that indicate that consumers when buying goods and services are driven by environmental and ethical considerations.Purpose of the article: Changes occurring in the environment affect consumer behavior, leading to multiplicity of attitudes and changes in consumption trends. The article has shown consumer behavior in line with the concept of sustainable development against the background of trends in consumption in Poland.Methods: The basis for the discussion in the article will be: literature studies, available empirical studies, and our own results of the survey among respondents in Lubuskie voi-vodeship. Surveys using questionnaires were directed at 541 respondents. The number of correctly completed questionnaires was 500, and the figures contained in them were subjected to further analysis.Findings & Value added: Respondents in their purchasing choices are not guided by the influence of the consumption on the natural environment. However, in their behaviors we can notice some environmental measures, which stem from different reasons, depending on the socio-economic conditions.
Developments and challenges of measuring M&A performance on a corporate and macroeconomic levels
Authors: Andriuskevicius Karolis , Ciegis Remigijus
Published: July 2017

Research background: This study presents the results of the research which aimed to iden-tify and critically discuss existing methodologies in the merger and acquisition field. Value creation to merging and acquiring firms and national countries constitute the center of the research. This study distinguishes between specific methodologies employed to gauge M&A performance on a micro- (corporate) and macro- (economy and society) economic levels. The final section of the paper concludes with a theoretical methodological framework integrating methodologies employed to measure M&A performance on a firm level and methodologies measuring consequences and effects of M&A on the economy. The aim of the analysis described in the paper is to ascertain and evaluate theoretically existing methodologies used in empirical studies that would allow proper and critical understanding of the results of various findings in the holistic and global M&A area.Purpose of the article: The purpose of the paper is to investigate and critically discuss the methodologies employed within the M&A performance framework with the focus on specific anticipated outcomes of the M&A deal and methodology measuring this outcome. The following objectives are being raised: (1) To identify recent developments in the M&A market and determine challenges and changes they encompass; (2) To identify and critically discuss anticipated outcomes of the M&A deal and existing methodologies measuring M&A performance on the corporate level; (3) To identify and critically discuss anticipated outcomes of the M&A deal on the economy and methodologies measuring consequences and effects of M&As on the macro- economic level; (4) To integrate methodologies measuring M&As performance on a micro- and macro- eco-nomic levels into theoretical methodological framework enabling scholars and practitioners to evaluate M&A performance from a holistic perspective.Methods: Based on previous studies, the authors conduct a structured literature review aimed to critically discuss and evaluate developments and challenges of measuring M&A performance on corporate and macroeconomic levels. The research is carried out as a struc-tured assessment of past literature. The findings from scientific articles and studies by various scholars are being categorized, grouped and summarized to discern a meta?analytic view of the work carried out to date. Finally, deep analysis of scientific literature, logical comparative analysis, systematization of scientific article and business cases are employed in the article.Findings & Value added: The paper evidences developments and challenges of measuring M&A performance on corporate and macroeconomic levels.  The re-search elaborates on several key developments in M&A methodology and performance studies carried out in empirical works during the last two decades. The findings help to independently and objec-tively assess performance of M&A from a holistic perspective.
Influence of the size of equity on corporate efficiency
Authors: Tomczak Sebastian Klaudiusz
Published: July 2017

Research background: From the perspective of managers and shareholders, obtaining profit is the main goal and driver of company activity. A profitable company can find investors easily, because they count on a big return on investment. However, enterprises that are not effective enough could end up being taken over by others, go bankrupt or shut down business.Purpose of the article: is to identify the impact of a high share of equity in the total assets on the profitability of manufacturing companies.Methods: The focus of this paper is on the manufacturing sector. Research time-scale is set to sixteen years (2000?2015). The choice of this period is determined by data availability. In the examined interval of time over 15 thousand firms from the sector in question were flirted drawn from the EMIS. The gathered data enabled computation of the following financial indicators for the itemized companies: gross margin, operating margin, return on sales, return on assets, and return on equity. Then selection of companies was carried out to choose these with a high share of equity in its total assets. The proportion was regarded to be high if it reaches fifty one percent. Companies with quantities below this threshold have been excluded from the sample. The next step defines intervals (classes) for the equity ratio. Depending on the value of equity, the remaining firms were assigned to their corresponding class. In order to analyze influence of the quantity of equity on the level of profitability t-Student test for independent samples has been applied.Findings & Value added: The comparative analysis of the indicator of the size of equity with the indicators of profitability makes it possible to confirm that there is a significant impact on the value of profitability ratios of manufacturing companies. However, in most cases the impact is statistically irrelevant.
The perception of budgeting in Czech firms ? results of a survey
Authors: Dokulil Jiří , Zlámalová Jana , Popesko Boris
Published: July 2017

Research background: Budgeting was developed during the Great Depression as a mana-gerial tool to help enterprises survive a critical period characterized by fluctuations in mac-roeconomic indicators. Now, after more than eighty years, budgeting is criticized for the same reason why it was created ? for lack of adaptability to unexpected changes in the business environment. Based on these facts, the presented study focuses on the specifics of budgeting in the current business environment.Purpose of the article: The aim of the work is to explore selected aspects of budgeting process in Czech firms, and to assess how the budgetary process is influenced by the pro-gression of the business environment.Methods: To achieve presented target, the authors designed the questionnaire survey sub-mitted to employees of companies in the Czech Republic.Findings & Value added: The first part of this paper displays the state of knowledge on budgeting, the following part presents results of the survey. The study identified several trends, especially in the use of budgeting in Czech firms, characteristics of budgets in these subjects and evaluation of the sustainability of a company´s environment.
Attitude toward smoking: the effect of negative smoking-related pictures
Authors: Grigaliūnaitė Viktorija , Pilelienė Lina
Published: July 2017

Research background: Endeavouring to develop healthy societies is a primary goal in many countries. As smoking is a major problem of public health, lowering the extent of smoking is one of the conditions for developing a healthy society. Based on the research revealing that the pairing of the product with negative stimuli enhances the possibility of negative reaction to the product as negative stimulus transfers it?s meaning to the product, tobacco packaging was labelled with negative smoking-related pictures illustrating the danger of smoking. Nevertheless, the extent of smoking is still large in many countries. Hence, the effect of negative smoking-related pictures has been the subject of intense debate within the scientific community.Purpose of the article: The aim of this research is to determine the effect of negative smok-ing-related pictures on the both implicit and explicit attitude toward smoking.Methods: For the purpose of determining the effect of negative smoking-related pictures on the both implicit and explicit attitude toward smoking, Implicit Association Test and ques-tionnaire survey were provided. The questionnaire was elaborated based on the analysis and synthesis of scientific literature.Findings & Value added: The theoretical analysis substantiated the influence of attitude toward the product on consumer purchase decisions. Nevertheless, people do not always want to reveal their opinion, hence traditional marketing research methods for measuring explicit attitude are not sufficient as they are often not objective. Therefore, neuromarketing research methods complement traditional marketing research methods by providing more objectivity. Consequently, the Implicit Association Test and traditional questionnaire research are applied for the empirical research, revealing the effect of negative smoking-related pictures on the both implicit and explicit attitude toward smoking. The recommendations for the usage of negative smoking-related pictures on purpose to influence attitude toward smoking and consumer purchase behaviour are substantiated.
David G. Pattinson (ed.), Textos épicos castellanos: problemas de edición y crítica. Queen Mary and Westfield College, London, 2000; 138 pp. (Papers of the Medieval Hispanic Research Seminar, 20).
Authors: Higashi Alejandro
Published: July 2017

Se reseñó: Textos épicos castellanos: problemas de edición y crítica.
Mariana Masera (coord.), La otra Nueva España. La palabra marginada en la Colonia. UNAM-Azul Editorial, Barcelona, 2002; 270 pp.
Authors: Pérez Daniel Iván
Published: July 2017

Se reseñó el libro: La otra Nueva España. La palabra marginada en la Colonia.
Carmen Y. Hsu, Courtesans in the literature of Spanish Golden Age. Reichenberger, Kassel, 2002; 301 pp.
Authors: Sol Mora Pablo
Published: July 2017

Se reseñó el libro: Courtesans in the literature of Spanish Golden Age.
As obras de Graciliano Ramos e Guimarães Rosa nos rodapés de Wilson Martins e Franklin de Oliveira
Authors: Macedo André Barbosa de
Published: July 2017

O objetivo do artigo é abordar a maneira como se deu a recepção crítica das obras de Graciliano Ramos e Guimarães Rosa nos rodapés que Wilson Martins e Franklin de Oliveira mantinham, sob a condição de crítico titular, respectivamente nos jornais O Estado de S. Paulo (de São Paulo) e Correio da Manhã (do Rio de Janeiro).
Duplicação e originalidade em uma adaptação fílmica do romance O homem duplicado, de José Saramago
Authors: Sobreira Ricardo
Published: July 2017

O presente estudo objetiva analisar o filme Enemy (2013), a adaptação ambígua e controversa do romance O homem duplicado (2002), do escritor português José Saramago. A investigação interdisciplinar empreendida neste trabalho problematiza as noções tradicionais de fidelidade e de originalidade com o propósito de caracterizar as adaptações fílmicas como transposições intermidiais em que múltiplos códigos intersemióticos interagem entre si. Com o intuito de fundamentar tais conceitos, argumentamos que, apesar de Enemy alterar elementos do texto adaptado, o filme reacentua a crise psicológica e a fragmentação identitária vivenciada pelo(s) protagonista(s) romanesco(s) por meio de uma construção cinematográfica de símbolos complexos e de metáforas visuais.
Effect of laparotomy on the pituitary-adrenal axis in dogs
Authors: Skovira Emily J. , Behrend Ellen N. , Martin Linda G. , Palmer Lee E. , Kemppainen Robert J. , Lee Hollie P.
Published: July 2017

OBJECTIVE To assess effects of major abdominal surgery on serum cortisol and aldosterone and plasma canine ACTH (cACTH) concentrations.

ANIMALS 39 healthy dogs undergoing laparotomy during veterinary student surgical laboratories.

PROCEDURES Blood samples were obtained before and at completion of surgery. Serum cortisol and aldosterone and plasma cACTH concentrations were measured by use of validated radioimmunoassays. Changes in concentrations (postoperative concentration minus preoperative concentration) were calculated. Data were analyzed by use of the Wilcoxon signed rank test, Pearson correlation analysis, and Mann-Whitney rank sum test.

RESULTS Cortisol, aldosterone, and cACTH concentrations increased significantly from before to after surgery. Although cortisol and aldosterone concentrations increased in almost all dogs, cACTH concentrations decreased in 6 of 32 (19%) dogs. All dogs had preoperative cortisol concentrations within the reference range, but 24 of 39 (62%) dogs had postoperative concentrations above the reference range. A correlation between the change in cACTH concentration and the change in cortisol concentration was not detected.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Laparotomy caused a significant increase in serum cortisol and aldosterone concentrations. In most dogs, but not all dogs, plasma cACTH concentrations increased. Lack of correlation between the change in cACTH concentration and the change in cortisol concentration suggested that increased postoperative cortisol concentrations may have been attributable to ACTH-independent mechanisms, an early ACTH increase that caused a sustained cortisol release, or decreased cortisol clearance. Further studies are indicated to evaluate the effects of various anesthetic protocols and minimally invasive surgical techniques on the stress response.
Morphological evaluation of clefts of the lip, palate, or both in dogs
Authors: Peralta Santiago , Fiani Nadine , Kan-Rohrer Kimi H. , Verstraete Frank J. M.
Published: July 2017

OBJECTIVE To systematically characterize the morphology of cleft lip, cleft palate, and cleft lip and palate in dogs.

ANIMALS 32 client-owned dogs with clefts of the lip (n = 5), palate (23), or both (4) that had undergone a CT or cone-beam CT scan of the head prior to any surgical procedures involving the oral cavity or face.

PROCEDURES Dog signalment and skull type were recorded. The anatomic form of each defect was characterized by use of a widely used human oral-cleft classification system on the basis of CT findings and clinical images. Other defect morphological features, including shape, relative size, facial symmetry, and vomer involvement, were also recorded.

RESULTS 9 anatomic forms of cleft were identified. Two anatomic forms were identified in the 23 dogs with cleft palate, in which differences in defect shape and size as well as vomer abnormalities were also evident. Seven anatomic forms were observed in 9 dogs with cleft lip or cleft lip and palate, and most of these dogs had incisive bone abnormalities and facial asymmetry.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The morphological features of congenitally acquired cleft lip, cleft palate, and cleft lip and palate were complex and varied among dogs. The features identified here may be useful for surgical planning, developing of clinical coding schemes, or informing genetic, embryological, or clinical research into birth defects in dogs and other species.
Arab-Australian Fiction: National Stories, Transnational Connections
Authors: Bayeh Jumana
Published: July 2017

Unlike the scholarly interest in Arab-American fiction, Arab-Australian literature has not received as much attention from literary critics, Australian-based or otherwise. Increased interest in Arab-American literature has been explained and often contextualized through the United States’ long-standing interference in the Arab world, as well as the tense relations between Arabs and Americans within the US. But these issues are not unique to America—like the US, Australia has not shied away from intervening in the region and also has its own troubled relations with Arab immigrant communities. And yet, despite these similar circumstances, no study of how Arab­Australian literature might apprehend or dramatize these particular relations has been undertaken. This paper provides some insights into the albeit nascent but growing field of Arab-Australian fiction. It explores how and in what ways Arab-Australian literature can be categorized as a form of Australian writing, and be seen as part of a transnational network of Arab diaspora fiction.
Cover image: Khayrallah Center for Lebanese Diaspora Studies
Community Activism and Creative Practice in Australia: An Interview with Paula Abood
Authors: Abood Paula , Bayeh Jumana , Amer Sahar
Published: July 2017

In this interview, Paula Abood discusses how her activist work in the community sector is intrinsically tied up with her creative practice. Describing herself as a secular Arab feminist, Abood’s public activism is deeply informed by Spivak’s important question “Can the Subaltern Speak?” Abood acknowledges that “speaking out” is a complicated political act, because it entails speaking on behalf of otherized women who are often silenced and marginalized within Australia. Alongside this interview, a sample of Abood’s creative work is included, which reflects both her theoretical interests and her activist work.   
Cover image:  Jerome Pearce
Effects of Dietary Supplementation of Some Antioxidants on Liver Antioxidant Status and Plasma Biochemistry Parameters of Heat-Stressed Quail
Authors: Sarıca Senay , Aydın Hüseyin , Ciftci Gulay
Published: July 2017

This study aimed to compare the dietary supplementation of oleuropein (O) and Î±-tocopherol acetate (TA) alone or with organic selenium (Se) on liver antioxidant status and some plasma biochemistry parameters in Japanese quails reared under heat stress (HS). A total of 800, two-weeks old quails were kept in wire cages in the temperature-controlled rooms at either 22Â°C or 34Â°C for 8 h/d and fed on a basal diet (NC) or the diets supplemented with TA (TA200) or O (O200) at 200 mg/kg alone or with OSe (TA200+OSe and O200+OSe) to the NC diet. HS decreased the total antioxidant status (TAS) and increased the total oxidative stress (TOS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) of liver compared to thermoneutral temperature (TN). The TA200, O200, TA200+OSe and O200+OSe diets increased TAS and decreased TOS of liver compared to those of quails fed NC. OSI was decreased by the TA200, O200 and TA200+OSe diets compared to NC and O200+OSe diets. HS reduced plasma albumin (A) and total protein (TP) concentrations, on the other hand, increased plasma glucose (G), total cholesterol (CHO) and triglyceride (TG) levels compared to TN. The TA200, O200, TA200+OSe and O200+OSe diets reduced plasma total CHO and TG levels and increased plasma A level. The TA200 and TA200+OSe diets reduced plasma G level and increased plasma TP levels compared to those of quails fed the other diets. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of vitamin E and oleuropein alone or with organic selenium is necessary to remove the negative effects of heat stress on liver antioxidant status and some plasma parameters of quails.
OPTIMIZATION OF CILNIDIPINE NANOSUSPENSION USING A CENTER COMPOSITE DESIGN
Authors: Nagar SK , Soniwala MM
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this investigation was to increase the solubility and dissolution rate of Cilnidipine by the preparation of nanosuspensions with solvent antisolvent method at the laboratory scale. Drug solution of Cilnidipine in acetone this mixture was added to stabilizer solution under continuous homogenization. Central composite design was employed to study the effect of the independent variables on the dependent The relationship between the dependent and independent variables was further Elucidated using multiple liner regression analysis (MLRA) and contour plots. Various process and formulation parameters were screened like homogenization speed, solvent to antisolvent ratio, homogenization time, type of stabilizer, concentration of drug and concentration of stabilizer. Physical stability can be enhancing physical stability of this colloidal system; nanosuspensions were freeze dried using D-mannitol. Seven different stabilizers were tried. Among them Poloxamer 407, Poloxamer 188, PVA and Tween 80 yielded nanosuspension in range of 90 to 350 nm. Freeze dried nanosuspensions were filled in capsules to make a deliverable dosage form and almost 100% drug dissolved in 5 minutes. The outcome of this study reveals the immense potential of nanosuspensions for delivery of Cilnidipine by improving its solubility and dissolution rate. These results show that the preparation of Cilnidipine-loaded nanosuspensions significantly improved the in vitro dissolution rate, thus possibly enhancing the fast onset of therapeutic drug effect.
FORMULATION AND OPTIMIZATION OF NANOSUSPENSION PREPARED BY MEDIA MILLING TECHNIQUE TO ENHANCE THE SOLUBILITY OF ISRADIPINE
Authors: Motka Umang , Dabhi Mahesh , Sheth Navin , Dudhrejiya Ashvin
Published: July 2017

Isradipine is a poorly water soluble antihypertensive drug has low bioavailability. The aim of this study was to formulate and characterize isradipine nanosuspension to enhance the solubility of isradipine and thus its bioavailability. Media milling technique was used for the formulation of nanosuspension. The effects of different important process parameters, i.e. the selection of stirring time, selection of concentration of zirconium beads, stirring speed were investigated by preliminary studies while concentration of stabilizers were optimized by simplex lattice design. Concentration of HPMC E3 LV(X1), Carbopol 934P(X2) and PVP K25(X3) were selected as the independent variables whereas mean particle size (Y1), saturation solubility (Y2) and cumulative percentage drug release (cpr) (Y3) were selected as dependent variables. The optimized batch had 100% w/v of zirconium beads, 0.5%w/v of PVP K25 as stabilizer, 0.1%w/v of isradipine, 15 ml of distilled water and 20 hours of stirring time. The particle size and zeta potential of optimized nanosuspension were 248.6 ± 20 nm and 13.96 ± 5 mV respectively. The size of particles of nanosuspension was measured by particle size analyser and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis indicated that there was no interaction between drug and stabilizers. The saturation solubility and in vitro dissolution rate of isradipine was significantly increased by particle size reduction and which may leads to increase the bio-availability of the Isaradipine. The stability study of the formulation was carried out for a period of 12 months.
DISCOVERY OF SOME EMERGING FREE RADICAL SCAVENGING CANDIDATES BEARING 2-(P-HYDROXYPHENYL)-4–(SUBSTITUTEDPHENYL)-1H-1,5–BENZODIAZEPINES PHARMACOPHORE
Authors: Haldar Animeshchandra G. M. , Chhajed Santosh S. , Mahapatra Debarshi Kar , Dadure Kanhiya M.
Published: July 2017

In the present investigation, the synthesis of few novel leads bearing 2-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-4–(substitutedphenyl)-1H-1,5–benzodiazepine pharmacophore is described. The substituted chalcone and their derivatives 3(a-j) were synthesized by base catalyzed Claisen-Schmidt condensation between p-hydroxy-acetophenone and appropriate aldehydes. The dibromostyryl ketones 4(a-j) were obtained by the reaction the chalcone with bromine in acetic acid. The dibromostyryl ketone were reacted with methanol in presence of sodium methoxide followed by acidic hydrolysis give 1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-3-(substitutedphenyl)-1,3-propanediones. The targeted compounds; the substituted 1,5-benzodiazepines were synthesized with o-phenylenediamine and synthesized 1,3-propanediones. The structures of synthesized compounds were confirmed by spectroscopic and analytical techniques (IR, 1H-NMR, and MS). The free radical scavenging activity of the synthesized analogs was monitored by in vitro antioxidant activity protocol. The derivatives 6f, 6g, 6i, and 6j were found to exhibit good antioxidant activity with 59.07%, 41.33%, 68.3% and 60.4% scavenging activity respectively as compared to standard ascorbic acid which demonstrated 79.73% activity. The current research revealed the potential of 2-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-4–(substituted-phenyl)-1H-1,5–benzodiazepine as emerging free radical scavengers. The study helped to establish a structure-activity relationship (SAR) where the substitution on the phenyl moiety of the 1,5-benzodiazepine was found to play profound role and influence over biological activity. The research will open new avenues for the development of antioxidant moieties having perspectives in cancer, inflammation, and several other ailments.
STEAM Education Based On Local Wisdom Of Coffee Plantation In Jember To Improve The Competitiveness at 21st Century
Authors: Bahri Samsul , Kusumawati Linda , Page (146-156) Lailatul Nuraini
Published: July 2017

In the 21st century, an educational institution needs to consider coverage graduates that success is not confined to academic ability, but more to the abilities and skills that will help graduates to compete in a global and digital world today. An important skill to have in the digital age, such as critical thinking skills, problem-solving, creativity, ability to communicate and collaborate as well as having the ability in information technology.This study conducted to describe the learning outcome and response of students with the use of science teaching material that integrated STEAM education and based on Jember’s local wisdom. The design of development by using a model of ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Develop, Implement and Evaluate). This research has done in MTs. Bustanul Ulum, Jember in class VII A with 25 sample. The results of the validation average of 4.31 by experts 1, and 4.09 by experts 2. The results of students’ cognitive and psychomotor are 73.84 and 91.8. The average score of student’s response is 0.91. It means the teaching materials that developed is very valid, the value of the cognitive is good enough, the psychomotor is very high and the given of response is very positive, so the teaching materials are feasible to implement and this teaching materials can improved performance and student’s motivation to learn.
Different methods and carriers for immobilization cellulase from Trichoderma viride and its remaining activity
Authors: Taha Abdul Sattar Jabbar
Published: July 2017

Objective: Many methods for enzymes immobilization and large number of carriers for immobilized enzymes, there are many benefits and diffeculties for immobilization, so the objective of this paper is to determine the suitable method and carrier for cellulase immobilization.Methods: Three methods used for immobilization which they adsorption, Glutaraldehyde and modified glutaraldehyde using two different carriers the first anion exchanger AM-21-A, and the second cation exchange fiber VION KN -1.Results: The result shows that the degree of saving catalytic activity for immobilized and free cellulase were 35, 55, and 75% for the three methods respectively and The result of degree maintain of specific activity for native enzyme were 57%, 42%, for the two carriers VION KN-1, AM-21-A respectively.Conclusions: It can be concluded that the modified glutaraldehyde is the best method for cellulase immobilization and VION KN-1 is better carrier than AM-21-A.
Screening and characterisation of bioplastics producing bacteria isolated from oil contaminated soils of Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Susithra K. , Ramesh U. , Kannan M. , Ganesan R. , Rajarathinam K.
Published: July 2017

Objective: To screen the high yielding PHB producing bacterial strains and its characterization by phenotypic methods and PHB production was optimized by using different carbon sources, different levels of pH and temperature.Methods: The oil contaminated soils of Virudhunagar town were chosen for the isolation of PHB producing bacterial species. The bacterial isolates were stained by Sudan Black B method for observing the presence of PHB granules and further confirmation by UV and FTIR analysis. The PHB accumulations in bacterial isolates were done by UV-Spectrophotometric analysis. The maximum PHB production was optimized by varying pH, temperature and carbon sources used in the production medium.Results: From the microscopic observations of the individual isolates, seven bacterial isolates were seen by the PHB granules inside the cell. The UV results interpret maximum amount 1052 microgram/ml of PHB by the second bacterial isolate. FTIR confirmed C=O group in the extracted PHB from production media. Also high yield was observed in at pH 9, 370 C and starch.Conclusions: These PHB have potential candidate for some application in packaging and biomedical material production in the form of drug carriers.
Antihypertensive activity of Beta vulgaris on dexamethasone induced hypertension in rats
Authors: Patel Dignesh , Patil Rupali , Patel Alkesh
Published: July 2017

Objective: Investigation of methanolic extract for detecting the presence of Betanin by phytochemical   analysis, to induce experimental hypertension and to carry out measurement of BP by invasive (direct) method (IBP) and vascular reactivity to various catecholamines after completion of treatment schedule.Methods: The animals were divided into six main groups. Each group contains 5 animals. Group I received vehicle , group  II received dexamethasone injection (20 µg/kg/day, s.c.) for 14 days , group III received  extract of Beta vulgaris (100 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for 14  days , group IV received extract of Beta vulgaris (300 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for 14 days , group V received dexamethasone injection (20 ug/kg/day, s.c.) and extract  of  Beta  vulgaris (100 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for 14 days and group VI received dexamethasone (DEXA) injection (20 µg/kg/day, s.c.) and extract of  Beta  vulgaris (300 mg/kg/day, p.o.) for 14 days. After 14 days of dosing period body weight, ECG and changes in vascular reactivity to various catecholamines were recorded using Powerlab 4SP (AD Instrument, Australia).Results: Animals treated with dexamethasone along with Beta vulgaris (100 and 300 mg/kg p.o. for 14 days)   showed a significant (p<0.05) decrease in heart rate compared to Dexamethasone treated group. Dexamethasone administered rats showed a significant elevation (p<0.05) in systolic blood pressure (SBP), vascular reactivity changes to Catecholamine as compared to control group. Beta vulgaris extract (100, 300 mg/kg/day, p.o.) treatment for 14 days  in  dexamethasone administered  rats significantly (p<0.05) reduced  systolic blood pressure, vascular reactivity changes to catecholamines as compared to dexamethasone administered group.Conclusions: The methanolic-HCl extract of Beta vulgaris has antihypertensive activity in dexamethasone model.