bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent Sensing to Inform and Learn (InSTIL): A Scalable and Governance-Aware Platform for Universal, Smartphone-Based Digital Phenotyping for Research and Clinical Applications (Preprint)
Authors: Barnett Scott , Huckvale Kit , Christensen Helen , Venkatesh Svetha , Mouzakis Kon , Vasa Rajesh
Published: September 2019

UNSTRUCTURED

In this viewpoint we describe the architecture of, and design rationale for, a new software platform designed to support the conduct of digital phenotyping research studies. These studies seek to collect passive and active sensor signals from participants' smartphones for the purposes of modelling and predicting health outcomes, with a specific focus on mental health. We also highlight features of the current research landscape that recommend the coordinated development of such platforms, including the significant technical and resource costs of development, and we identify specific considerations relevant to the design of platforms for digital phenotyping. In addition, we describe trade-offs relating to data quality and completeness versus the experience for patients and public users who consent to their devices being used to collect data. We summarize distinctive features of the resulting platform, InSTIL (Intelligent Sensing to Inform and Learn), which includes universal (ie, cross-platform) support for both iOS and Android devices and privacy-preserving mechanisms which, by default, collect only anonymized participant data. We conclude with a discussion of recommendations for future work arising from learning during the development of the platform. The development of the InSTIL platform is a key step towards our research vision of a population-scale, international, digital phenotyping bank. With suitable adoption, the platform will aggregate signals from large numbers of participants and large numbers of research studies to support modelling and machine learning analyses focused on the prediction of mental illness onset and disease trajectories.
Comparison of Methods for Recruiting Suburban Opioid Users for Studies on Hepatitis C Virus Infection Prevention (Preprint)
Authors: Mackesy-Amiti Mary Ellen , Johnson Timothy P. , Boodram Basmattee
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

Increasing opioid use among young people contributes to multiple harms including overdose, and HIV and hepatitis C virus infections.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a pilot study to address challenges in recruiting young suburban residents for research on opioid use and risk behavior.

METHODS

We used a multi-pronged advertising strategy to recruit young adults (18-29 years) residing in the suburbs surrounding the City of Chicago to an online survey to test the feasibility of using these methods to recruit people who used opioids in the past 30 days for a research study.

RESULTS

Over 1,000 survey responses were recorded during 13 weeks, of which 60% (n = 606) were valid and at least 90% complete. Survey completers were 61% male, and 65% non-Hispanic white, with a mean age of 21. Six percent of respondents (n = 34) reported misuse of prescription pain relievers in the past 30 days, and 1% (n = 6) reported recent heroin use. Of the 38 respondents who were eligible for the telephone interview, 26 (68%) indicated that they were interested in learning more about the research study, and 24 provided contact information.

CONCLUSIONS

Facebook/Instagram advertising appears to be a useful online resource for identifying and recruiting suburban opioid users for research, with a cost of about $20 per subject. Craigslist and reddit, while free, are slower and less efficient as they require staff time to continually re-post, but may be worthwhile to include as part of a multi-pronged strategy.
Design, Development and Initial Adoption of myED:
A Patient-Centered Information System for Emergency Care Journeys (Preprint)
Authors: Westphal Monika , Yom-Tov Galit Bracha , Parush Avi , Carmeli Nizan , Shaulov Alina , Shapira Chen , Rafaeli Anat
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

Medical care is highly complex, addressing patient-centered health goals that require coordination of multiple care providers. We focus on Emergency Department (ED) patients, who currently lack a sense of predictability about their medical journey, which increases the occurrences of frustration and aggression. ED patients need a better understanding about their ED procedures. We suggest and describe a system for providing real-time information to ED patients regarding the procedures in their ED medical journey.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to develop a system that provides patients with dynamically updated information about the specific procedures and expected wait times their personal ED journey comprises, and to report initial evaluations of this system.

METHODS

To develop the system myED, we extracted information from hospital databases and translated it using process mining and user interface (UI) design into a language that is accessible and comprehensible to patients. We evaluate the system using a mixed-methods approach, combining observations, interviews and online records.

RESULTS

Interviews with patients, escorts and Health Care Providers (HCPs) confirm patients’ need for information about their personal ED journey. Our iterative work with ED patients, HCPs, and a multidisciplinary team of developers enabled provision of such information in a secure, effective and user-friendly way.
In the third month after deployment, 492 of 1,614 patients (30.48%), used myED. Patients’ understanding of their ED journey improved significantly (F(1,348)=13.109, P=.000), and patients showed positive reactions to the system. We identified future challenges, including reaching quick engagement without delaying medical care. Salient reasons for poor system adoption were patients’ medical state and technological illiteracy. HCPs confirmed the potential of myED and identified means that could improve patient experience and staff cooperation.

CONCLUSIONS

myED communicates personal information to patients about their ED journey through mobile technology. Such communication improves healthcare by addressing patient psychological needs for information and understanding, which are often overlooked. We continue to test and refine the system, and expect to find positive effects of myED on patients’ ED experience and on hospital operations.
Changes in the stressed state of the framework of the metal ribbed-ring dome during the assembly process
Authors: Lebed Evgeny V.
Published: September 2019

Aims of research. To analyze the stress state of the metal structures of the ribbedring dome of a hemispherical shape during the assembly process of the dome frame in two fundamentally different ways - “top-down” and “bottom-up”. Since different design schemes arise at different stages of assembly of the dome frame, different assembly forces result in their structural elements. To demonstrate how assembly forces lead to the tension state of a ribbed-ring dome that is transformed during the construction process. To perform the analysis of the stress states of the considered assembly methods and to present their evaluation. Methods. A computer model of a metal ribbed-ring dome made of steel I -beams with rigid joints has been developed. Several additional assembly models of an incomplete frame have been created for studying the considered assembly at different stages. Computer calculations for the effect of its self-weight were made for each assembly model of the dome frame. As a result of the calculations, the stresses in the structural elements of the frames of the assembly schemes were determined, which were compared with similar stresses resulting from the self-weight in the frame of the design scheme. Results. Diagrams of changes in the stress state of structural elements of a metal ribbed-ring dome are presented. The efficiency of use of steel strength at different stages of installation is also shown in the diagrams. A comparative assessment is given for the stress conditions due to the assembly methods under consideration. The inevitability of installation stresses is noted and the most efficient assembly method of installation is chosen.
The definition of the critical buckling load beam model and two-dimensional model of the round cylindrical shell that interact with the soil
Authors: Kosytsyn Sergey B. , Akulich Vladimir Yu.
Published: September 2019

Aims of research. The research is aimed at determining the critical buckling load at which the shell interacting with the soil loses equilibrium stability, and finding the buckling mode of the shell in the linear and nonlinear formulations of the task. Methods. The task is solved by a numerical method using a finite element complex, which allows investigating the stress-strain state and assessing the equilibrium stability of beam models and two-dimensional models of the round cylindrical shell. Three design cases of the beam model and two design cases of the two-dimensional model interacting with the soil are compiled. There is a load summary acting on the shell. The calculations are carried out in linear and geometrically nonlinear formulations using a linear elastic model of the material. Contact elements of one-side and two-side action are used. Critical buckling load are determined relative to the actual load of its own weight. Results. Critical buckling load are determined and the buckling mode of the round cylindrical shell interacting with the soil are found. There is a comparative analysis of the results. An assessment of the stability margin of the shell relative to the actual load is given.
Distinctive Lexical Patterns in Russian Patient Information Leaflets: A Corpus-Driven Study
Authors: Grabowski Łukasz
Published: September 2019

This methodologically-oriented corpus-driven study focuses on distinctive patterns of language use in a specialized text type, namely Russian patient information leaflets. The study’s main goal is to identify keywords and recurrent sequences of words that account for the leaflets’ formulaicity, and - as a secondary goal - to describe their discoursal functions. The keywords were identified using three methods (G2, Hedges’ g and Neozeta) and the overlap between the three metrics was explored. The overlapping keywords were qualitatively analyzed in terms of discoursal functions. As for the distinctive multi-word patterns, we focused on recurrent n-grams with the largest coverage in the corpus: these were identified using the Formulex method (Forsyth, 2015b), which provides complementary data with respect to more conservative n- gram and lexical bundles approaches. The results revealed that the most distinctive keywords were identified using Hedges’ g metric, that the largest overlap occurred between G2 and Neozeta metrics, and that the frequent use and discoursal functions of the identified lexical patterns correspond with situational contexts and communicative purposes of patient information leaflets. It is hoped that this study will provide an opportunity for a methodological reflection and inspire further corpus-driven research on distinctive recurrent lexical patterns (e.g., keywords, n-grams, lexical bundles) or - more generally - on formulaic language in texts originally written in Russian.
Constructing the Ideal Future in Foreign Military Media Discourses of The World War II Period
Authors: Solopova Olga A. , Saltykova Maria S.
Published: September 2019

The major objective of the paper is to establish functions of modeling the ideal future in the British, American and French military media discourses of World War II period. The authors argue that military media discourse is a hybrid type that combines the components of military, political, military-political, and media discourses whose concentration and interpenetration can vary greatly. The military media discourse is a mode of organizing knowledge, ideas, or experience of war that are rooted in the media and influenced by historical, geopolitical, social, and cultural context. The approach taken in this study is a mixed methodology of linguistic political prognostics that integrates fundamentals of philosophy, future studies, cognitive linguistics, and political linguistics. The samples from the digitized archives of the UK, the USA, and France (24 695 samples) are investigated through a number of methods: corpus, descriptive, cognitive and discourse analyses, cultural, metaphorical modeling, and comparative analyses. Being a basic value of military media discourse, the ideal future is determined by its nature: the idea of a better world inherent in human nature is intensified in transformative moments, war being one of them; representing the present, the media model both the past and the future. The ideal future integrates the key features of utopia and prognosis differing from them in certain specific characteristics. Its basic functions are prognostic, constructive, modeling, critical, provocative, and visualizing ones that complement one another in con-structing an ideal projection of the postwar world and the future of the USSR as a geopolitical ally of Great Britain, the USA, and France.
The influence on Mandelstam by Goethe: “The Octaves” as “The Poems on the Cognition”
Authors: Kornienko Sergey A.
Published: September 2019

The article considers “The Octaves” by O.E. Mandelstam as the unique complex of genre and theme connected not only with the literary but also with the philosophical influence of J.W. Goethe on the Mandelstam’s poetry. It is proved that Mandelstam enters the consensual dialogue with Goethe because at the time of creating the studied cycle of poems, at the beginning of 1930s, Mandelstam’s interest in scientific theories, especially in biology and history reached its pinnacle. Mandelstam’s “The Octaves”, “Lamarck” are compared with scientific works of J.W. Goethe as well as with his sciencerelated poetry, in particular with “Metamorphosis of Plants”. Imaginative homology of both poets, convergence of their plots and trope functions are demonstrated. All this undoubtedly proves that Mandelshtam was affected by Goethe’s beliefs reflected in his ideology and ideopoetic. It is shown how the feeling of spiritual connection with Goethe which Mandelstam had, especially after his journey to Armenia (and acquaintance with biologist B. Kuzin) is converted into aesthetic world view and poetic principles. It brightly manifests itself in lyrical ontology of such “The Octaves” like: “Both Schubert on the waters and Mozart in birds’ chirping...”, “When having destroyed a draft...”, “Oh, Moslem-butterfly...”, “And the jagged bough of a maple-tree...”.
Stereotypization and mythologization of the image of Russia in modern Spanish newspapers
Authors: Oleynikov Alexander S. , Slavina Valentina A.
Published: September 2019

The article discusses the stereotyping and mythologization of the image of Russia, identified as a result of an analysis of the modern Spanish press. The empirical base of the study consists of articles of electronic versions of socio-political newspapers “ABC”, “El Pais”, “El Mundo” from 2014 to 2018. The considered time interval is associated with significant changes in international relations and the emergence of differences between the West and Russia on key issues of its foreign and domestic policy. Immediate response of the international community to the actions of Russia has contributed to fundamental changes in its perceptions about the global media space. An important component of the image of the world in the media sphere is the image of the state, which is created primarily through the media. It is formed on the basis of actual events of the surrounding reality, reflects their dynamics, expresses the public consciousness and influences it. Creating a media image of Russia, Spanish newspapers rely on stereotypical ideas and myths about it existing in the West, and also take part in the creation of new ones. Stereotyping and mythologization form a specific negative perception matrix, which negatively affects the image of Russia and demonizes it.
Luxembourg daily press: degree of political engagement
Authors: Voronenkova Galina F. , Maslina Maria G.
Published: September 2019

The article discusses the connection of four daily newspapers of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg - “Luxemburger Wort”, “Tageblatt”, “Lëtzebuerger Journal” and “Zeitung vum Lëtzebuerger Vollek” - with the party system. The scientific novelty of the research lies in the fact that the Luxembourg press has never been studied by Russian scientists either in general or from the point of view of political engagement, which the authors study in four aspects: historical, in point of content, economic and audience (in this case it’s about media preferences of politicians - party members). However, there is a positive side to the political commitment of the Luxembourg editions: the connection with political parties contributes to maintaining the diversity of the newspaper landscape of Luxembourg.
Rubric “Stories” of information portal “Meduza”: traditions and innovations
Authors: Nalitova Natalia U. , Petrushina Maria V.
Published: September 2019

The article examines the “Stories” section of the “Meduza” Internet portal as a vivid example of the processes taking place in new media - the convergence of classical genres, the use of new technical and communication tools. The purpose of the study is to identify the content and genre features that represent the specific properties and characteristics of the materials of the heading “Stories” as an innovative genre of online media. Not only publications published in the “Stories” section were studied, but also Internet resources that covered the creation and functioning of the online publication. As a result of the study, it was found that the materials of the “Stories” heading have both common to most online publications and specific features, which gives grounds to define the “Stories” heading as a special genre of online media. The results of the linguistic study of the “Stories” section are of great importance in studying the peculiarities of the network infosphere and the practice of creating Internet content. Research materials can be used directly in the work of journalists of online publications, as well as in the development of training courses for students of the journalism training area.
The specifics of Hu Shuli’s work in the conditions of the new stage of reforms and opening up
Authors: Te Olga E.
Published: September 2019

Today, the People’s Republic of China, formed on October 1, 1949, being at the starting point in a new historical era, continues to successfully pursue a policy of reforms and opening up, initiated by the great statesman of China, Deng Xiaoping (小平 (1904-1997)). The article presents an analysis of the main trends in the functioning of the financial and economic press of China on the example of the work of one of the brightest leading media representatives of the PRC, Hu Shuli. For almost 20 years, she is considered to be the benchmark for quality analytical journalism, on which the new generation of journalists look up to.
The Impact of a Creolized Text Non-verbal and Verbal Parts on its Perception (an Experimental Study)
Authors: Kosenko Viktoria S.
Published: September 2019

The paper analyzes the impact of creolized text verbal and non-verbal parts on the perception of its meaning. The perception facreolized text is dualistic: the non-verbal part (image) is identified with visual recollection images while the verbal part (text) is identified with verbal models reflecting nonlingual consciousness images as well. The perception of acreolized text perception was analyzed with Osgood’s semantic differential method which enables the identification of sense perception results involving both genetically translated conscious images (images of color) and conscious images developed in one’s culture acquisition. The applied method reveals denotative as well as axiological characteristics of creolized text content. The resulting semantic spaces demonstrate the impact patterns of the image and text parts on the creolized text understanding.
For What Works The Nobel Prize Is Awarded Or Artistic Measurement Of KadzuoYsiguro’s Novel “Do Not Let Me Go”
Authors: Kuchukova Zukhra A. , Berberova Liana B.
Published: September 2019

The British-Japanese writer Kazuo Ishiguro was awarded the Nobel Prize for the anti-utopian novel “Do not let me go” in 2017. The authors of the article in the framework of ontological poetics consider the aesthetic advantages of the work, paying close attention to the degree of its relevance, the specifics of the artistic conflict, the advantages of the female narrative, as well as an extensive system of expressive means. The final result of the analysis is a high appreciation of the artistic mastery of the writer who is able to combine the breadth of the philosophical worldview with the fine work of a literary stylist.
The Effect of HR Practices on Business Performance in Morocco: An Application of the Universalist Approach
Authors: ADRAOUI Hayat EL
Published: September 2019

The role of HRM in improving business competitiveness is recognized. The scientific literature has several theoretical approaches through which some authors have attempted to validate this hypothesis. The objective of this study is to verify if the companies most successful in Morocco are distinguished by their HR practices under the Universalist approach. We quantitatively analyze the returns of a panel of 92 national and multinational companies in Morocco. A context far unexplored by management researchers. These companies operate, since the 80s, in a context of strong competition due to the globalization of markets. The results are used to validate the Universalist perspective and argue the scope of certain HR practices in this context.
Financial Management Practices, Firm Growth and Profitability of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs)
Authors: Musah Alhassan , Gakpetor Erasmus Dodzi , Pomaa Portia
Published: September 2019

The study examined financial management practices using four components: working capital management practices, capital structure management, accounting information and financial reporting practice, and the use of capital budgeting techniques and fixed assets management. Performance of SMEs was examined from the context of profitability measured by Return on Assets and of growth. The study sampled 100 SMEs from Accra with data collected through the administration of a questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis. The results of the descriptive statistics revealed that working capital management practices had the highest mean score, followed by accounting information and financial reporting practices, capital structure management and finally, the use of capital budgeting techniques and fixed assets management, in that order. The Pearson correlation analysis showed a positive association between the four components of financial management practices and between SMEs profitability and growth. The results emphasize the need for SMEs to improve on their financial management practice to improve the profitability and growth of these firms. It is recommended that the use of capital budgeting techniques be improved, as this area of financial management, even though it impacts positively on the performance of SMEs had the least score. Most importantly, the managers of SMEs should use discounted cash flow techniques to evaluate investment and projects before committing the resources of the company. SMEs are encouraged to adopt IFRS for SMEs to enhance their financial reporting practices. This will also improve their decision making and access to capital which will allow these SMEs to expand.
Enhancing the Study of Business Statistics with an e-Homework System
Authors: Chua-Chow Clare , . Doug McKessock
Published: September 2019

This paper compares the performance of two classes of students who were enrolled in an Introductory Business Statistics course. Students in one class were required to use e-homework, an online system and another class completed their homework assignments without the online system. The major objective of this study was to determine whether there was any difference in the level of performance between students who used the online homework system and those who did homework assignments in the traditional method. The students in a large class with online homework were compared to students without online homework. This e-homework system enables instructors to monitor individual studentâ€™s performance and transmit immediate feedback to students. This paper answers the question: Can online homework improve the performance of students enrolled in an Introductory Business Statistics course? To answer this question, we evaluated the studentsâ€™ performance based on their final grades in a first year Introductory Statistics course. Studentsâ€™ perceptions of the usefulness of online homework were also considered. The findings of this research showed that students obtain many benefits from online homework. Students were better prepared in writing test, their ability to understand course concepts increased because of the timely feedback they receive from instructors, discussion about Statistics among peers occurred more frequently than in previous semesters. Students cultivated better study habits, and consequently, they developed more confidence in applying their knowledge of statistical concepts.
Review of Harvard Business Review on Collaborating Across Silos
Authors: Srinivasan Shiva Kumar
Published: September 2019

Its a Book review. Check out full PDF instead
Scientific Output and GDP: Evidence from Countries around the World
Authors: Samimi Ahmad Jafari
Published: September 2019

Scientific output is one of the important determinants of economic development in countries around the world. The extremely high scientific productivity of developing countries can be corrected by increased funding as investment on publications and also as a measure of scientific output. The purpose of the present paper is to examine the casual relationship between scientific output and GDP in 176 countries from both developing as well as developed countries. Our findings based on estimated regression models using a panel data for the periods 1996-2007 indicate that except in poor countries, there is a two-way and positive relationship between scientific output and GDP.
A Study Examining the Effect of Pistachio Export in Iran
Authors: Mehdi Safdari
Published: September 2019

Pistachio is one of the most important agricultural sector products in Iran. This product is important because of creating exchange, employment, value added and other economic conditions. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between pistachio export and economic growth in Iran. The theoretical framework was designed based on this assumption that the total production in the economy is divided into two sections: production for inside and production for export. The data were collected from 1990 to 2003 and were analyzed using Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model. The result of the analyses showed that there was significant relationship between pistachio export and economic growth. Together the independent variables explained 89% of the variance in the dependent variables. The remaining 11% was due to unidentified variables. In relation to that, we can conclude that explanatory power is high for the equation. It showed that one percent change in pistachio export rate lead to 38% in economic growth. Therefore pistachio export is regarded as an important factor in Iran's economic growth.
The Impeding Drivers of Risks at Private Higher Education Institutions in Jordan: An Analytical Approach
Authors: Sabri Hala Abdulqader
Published: September 2019

This study provides an in depth assessment of the main drivers of risk impeding private higher education institutions in Jordan. The study adopts an analytical approach that incorporates reviewing available literature and conducting interviews and discussions with some shareholders and board of trustees' members in addition to faculty members and students of private universities. The analysis revealed that although private universities in Jordan are making progress and provide important contributions to the economy, however, they face important strategic and operational risks in addition to other compliance, financial and reputational risks. These risks include educational delivery systems, quality of academic programs, executive management, competition, and utilization of new technologies, compliance with accrediting agencies, financial issues, societal perception, students' violence, and demographic challenges. The study concludes that private universities need to place risk management plans to effectively deal with the all risk indicators analyzed in the study. Recommendations on how to implement a risk management plan are also presented and highlighted.
Determinants of Human Resource Productivity in Iran
Authors: Mehran Mokhtari
Published: September 2019

According to the modern growth theory, the accumulation of human capital is an important contributor to economic growth. Investment in human resources and educating and training human force to learn different skills to advance the production process can improve the production quality and leads to efficient use of material capital and optimum utilization of them through improving the skill and proficiency of the workforce, making them efficient and increasing capabilities. The results of the studies on the role of Human resources in economic growth from 1966 up to now show that the better utilization of workforce, effective utilization of capitals and physical equipments, using the best skilled expert workforce, utilization of advanced equipments and machinery with advanced technologies and the proficiency of more efficient and desired resources of production factors improves the economic growth of Iran. This research show that Iranâ€™s economy, with 6% growth potential, hopes for improving the skill of human resources, labors and experts to change the current economic growth rate of 4.5% to over 8%.
Data Mining and Application in Accounting and Auditing
Authors: Rostami KeramatOllah Heydari , . Hamed Omrani , . Ahmad Kazemi Margavi , . Hamid Asadzadeh , . Hemad Nazari
Published: September 2019

Traditional manner for making information from data was laid on handy interpret and analyzing. This kind of analyzing of data is so slow and also expensive and objective. It hopes computer technology helps when data using and analyzing is above humane ability. Knowledge exploration emphasizes on understandable patterns. Totally, it can be said that rising to the upward knowledge is from raw data that are down knowledge.
Study on the Effectiveness of Computer Application Course to the Polytechnics Students in the Working Environment
Authors: Ying Cr. Ling
Published: September 2019

Malaysia Polytechnic Transformation Program was launched to improve the quality of vocational and technical education in Malaysia and form a quality human capital capable of increasing productivity significantly. Human capital that produced should be the ICT literacy groups and will contribute to the needs of industry. Hence, Computer Application course that offered to the students must be revised from time to time and updated content to fulfill the needs of industry. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relevance of Computer Application course to the polytechnic graduates from the perceptions view of students and employers. Review and survey involved 375 students who have completed their six months industrial training and was continue study in the final semester currently on five polytechnics which have been identified through cluster sampling and purposive sampling. In order to get the perception of the employers, convenient sampling was used in this study. The instruments used are two sets of questionnaires adapted from University Putra Malaysia, the Exit Survey for Graduating Students and Stakeholders Survey for Outcome Based Education (OBE) - Industry / Employer / Alumni developed by Professor Dato Ir. Dr. Radin Umar Radin Sohadi. The pilot test obtained the Alpha Cronbach value of 0.962. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, mean, standard deviation, and percentage. Through this study, the highest mean value on attributes of the graduate attainment is derived from studentsâ€™ perceptions is Lifelong Learning and information management, which was 3.74. Next, the research showed the lowest mean value of 3.60 on the thinking and scientific skills approach. The findings also show that the perception of the employers on polytechnic graduates that they have the ability to apply their knowledge of computer literacy into careers with the highest mean value of 4.20. However, only 52% of employers give opinion thatâ€™s Polytechnic graduates are able to act as a manager / leader with a mean value of 3.36. The findings also showed that 96% of employer agrees that BC101 course is relevant and fulfills market needs.
Self-Regulated Learning Strategies and Their Effects on Math Performance of Pre-University International Students in Malaysia
Authors: Loong Tang Eng
Published: September 2019

The study examined any differences in self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies between two groups of international students in the Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY) program in Malaysia, in which one group of 58 international students in their first semester, and another group of 18 international students in their second and third semesters. It followed by examining the effect of the use of SRL strategies on math performance for both groups. The Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) was used to measure the use of SRL strategies among international students, and the final score of the most manageable mathematical subject was used to measure their math performance. The result indicated that first-semester international students used as many SRL strategies as second- and thirdsemester international students, and no significant difference in math performance between the groups was found. The result also revealed that attitude towards academic tasks; motivation level and test taking strategies were positively associated with math performance of first-semester international students, while anxiety towards tests, attitude towards academic tasks and test taking strategies were positively associated with second- and third-semester international studentsâ€™ math performance. Moreover, math performance of first-semester international students was significantly predicted by attitude towards academic tasks and test taking strategies, but second- and third-semester international studentsâ€™ math performance was not significantly predicted by any SRL strategies.
Prototype Model Agent-Based Search Engine for Researchers and Scientists
Authors: Dastgir Naveed
Published: September 2019

Now days, the Word Wide Web (WWW) covers most of the information channels across the world and is the cheapest resource to publish the corporate as well as individual information. The key advantage of WWW is that the published information instantly becomes available around the globe. Since the information load on the Internet is increasing day by day, therefore, it is causing serious troubles for the researchers and scientists to retrieve the targeted and relevant information from the huge bulk of data. While surfing the Internet, precious time of researchers and scientists is wasted due to browsing of the irrelevant and unnecessary material. Such an approach of information retrieval results in overlooking the important contents. In this paper, we look into the elementary components of a customized search engine in order to develop an agent-based search engine tool that may help researchers and scientists to find their desired information in an efficient manner and with minimal clicks of pointer. Through this tool, the researchers and scientists will be able to find a summarized report against their search phrase along with the search details, which will provide them a solid background to their research subject based on history available on the WWW. The important aspect of this search engine is that it retrieves the subject-specific material from the designated websites in accordance with the user-defined criteria.
The New Edge in Knowledge: How Knowledge Management Is Changing the Way We Do Business
Authors: Srinivasan Shiva Kumar
Published: September 2019

Its a Book review. Check out full PDF instead
The influence of Company Characteristics Factors to Activity Based Costing System Implementation
Authors: Rbabaâ€™h Abedalqader
Published: September 2019

This study tried to determine the implementation of activity based costing system rate and to examine the relationship between company characteristics such as industry type, numbers of employees, numbers of products, and level of overhead and ABC implementation. The findings revealed that ABC implementation in the context of Jordanian Manufacturing Companies is approximately 19.5% measured according to the number of implementers companies within Jordanian Manufacturing Companies. In order to test hypotheses Logistic regression and chi-square used in the current study. The findings in this study reveals that company sectors, size - number of employees, diversity -number of product, and level of overhead cost donâ€™t have significant influence on the implementation of ABC among manufacturing shareholding firms in Jordan. Therefore hypotheses H1a, H1b, H1c, H2, H3, and H4 are rejected.
Inherited thrombophilic risk factors in Serbian breast cancer patients
Authors: Pruner Iva , Tomic Branko , Dragojevic Marija , Gvozdenov Maja , Kovac Mirjana , Radojkovic Dragica , Djordjevic Valentina
Published: September 2019

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death among women. An
increased burden of thrombotic events among breast cancer patients, leading
to higher mortality and morbidity rates, is well established. There are a
number of genetic risk factors associated with thrombosis, but their
contribution to thrombotic tendencies in patients with cancer is not
completely elucidated. We aimed to investigate possible role of FV Leiden,
FII G20210A, MTHFR C677T and PAI-1 4G/5G gene variants in etiopathology of
breast cancer and accompanying thrombosis in cohort of Serbian patients. Our
study included 316 subject divided in three groups: breast cancer patients
with (97) or without (99) accompanying thrombosis and healthy control group
(120). According to our results, the prevalence for all four prothrombotic
gene variants were similar in cancer patients with and without thrombosis
and no statistically significant difference was observed between these
groups. We detected lower frequency of MTHFR 677TT genotype in breast cancer
patients when compared to control group (P=0.014; OR=0.145 (95%CI
0.031-0.679)), indicated that MTHFR C677T homozygosity could play a
protective role in breast cancer susceptibility. Our study noted the lack of
association between common prothrombotic gene variants and increased
prothrombotic risk in Serbian breast cancer patients. Also, our results
point out possible role of MTHFR 677TT genotype in etiology of breast
cancer, but further studies on larger cohort of patients are needed.
Mitochondrial 16s rDNA profiling and phylogenetic analysis suggest genetic diversity of ash weevil (Stereonichus fraxini De Geer) in Serbia
Authors: Galovic Vladislava , Drekic Milan , Vasic Sreten , Andrasev Sinisa , Pekec Sasa , Stojanovic Dejan , Vasic Verica
Published: September 2019

This study contributes to knowledge of ash weevil (Stereonychus fraxini De
Geer) molecular taxonomy, phylogeny and genetic diversity. Adult and larvae
stages of insect were collected from several locations covering northern and
central part of Serbia cojoined with homologous sequences with respect to
their different geographic origin and hypothesis of their evolutionary
relationships. Due to its slow rates of evolution the gene region that
covers mitochondrial 16S rDNA, was choice for sequence profiling and
phylogenetic reconstruction of ash weevil in correspondence with sequences
of related tribes Cionini. Phylogenetic analyses demonstrating clear
separation of the native weevil populations and the Cionini tribes. Even
though bioinformatic tools confirm that all native specimens belong to
species Stereonychus fraxini, different profile of the mitochondrial 16S
rDNA in the clade of Serbian specimens indicate intraspecific genomic
rearrangement in one specimen detached it to northern geographic position.
Those particular specimens invade also different Fraxinus species. Genetic
distinctness of other imagos from this particular individual proved by
indels and point mutations found in their sequences. By screening the
mitochondrial 16S rDNA, molecular evidence suggests the existence of the
specimen with rearranged genome that indicate genetic variability in native
populations of ash weevil species.
Study of some γ-ray attenuation parameters for new shielding materials composed of nano ZnO blended with high density polyethylene
Authors: Alsayed Zainab , Badawi Mohamed , Awad Ramadan , Thabet Abouzeid , El-Khatib Ahmed
Published: September 2019

The extensive utilization of radiation is rapidly developing worldwide involving abundant fields like medical, industrial, research, and nuclear facilities. This makes the need for studying radiation shielding materials and their properties more urgent than ever. In the present study, bulk and nano ZnO were mixed by the same ratio each time (10, 20, 30, and 40 wt.%), with high-density polyethylene as a polymer matrix and characterized by X-ray diffraction. The results confirmed the good dispersion of bulk and nano ZnO particles within the polymer matrix. The prepared composite samples were used in different thicknesses as gamma ray shielding materials, and the heaviness was calculated and compared to lead. Using HPGe detector at specific energies (59.53, 356.01, 661.66, 1173.33, and 1332.50 keV) for different radioactive point sources (241Am, 133Ba, 137Cs, and 60Co), the mass attenuation coefficient for the samples was measured experimentally. Depending upon the obtained values, the linear attenuation coefficient, half-value layer, tenth value layer, heaviness and relaxation length were estimated. Using the XCOM database, the values of linear attenuation coefficient, mass attenuation coefficient, and other parameters were calculated theoretically for the bulk ZnO blended with high-density polyethylene. The obtained results were compared to the experimental values for nano and bulk ZnO blended with high density polyethylene. The radiation shielding behavior of nano ZnO blended with high density polyethylene was found to be more promising and efficient for radiation protection against gamma ray.
The Impact of Biomarker Screening and Cascade Genetic Testing on the Cost-Effectiveness of MODY Genetic Testing
Authors: GoodSmith Matthew S. , Skandari M. Reza , Huang Elbert S. , Naylor Rochelle N.
Published: September 2019

OBJECTIVE

In the U.S., genetic testing for maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is frequently delayed because of difficulty with insurance coverage. Understanding the economic implications of clinical genetic testing is imperative to advance precision medicine for diabetes. The objective of this article is to assess the cost-effectiveness of genetic testing, preceded by biomarker screening and followed by cascade genetic testing of first-degree relatives, for subtypes of MODY in U.S. pediatric patients with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used simulation models of distinct forms of diabetes to forecast the clinical and economic consequences of a systematic genetic testing strategy compared with usual care over a 30-year time horizon. In the genetic testing arm, patients with MODY received treatment changes (sulfonylureas for HNF1A- and HNF4A-MODY associated with a 1.0% reduction in HbA1c; no treatment for GCK-MODY). Study outcomes included costs, life expectancy (LE), and quality-adjusted life years (QALY).

RESULTS

The strategy of biomarker screening and genetic testing was cost-saving as it increased average quality of life (+0.0052 QALY) and decreased costs (−$191) per simulated patient relative to the control arm. Adding cascade genetic testing increased quality-of-life benefits (+0.0081 QALY) and lowered costs further (−$735).

CONCLUSIONS

A combined strategy of biomarker screening and genetic testing for MODY in the U.S. pediatric diabetes population is cost-saving compared with usual care, and the addition of cascade genetic testing accentuates the strategy’s benefits. Widespread implementation of this strategy could improve the lives of patients with MODY while saving the health system money, illustrating the potential population health benefits of personalized medicine.
Avaliação da oferta de ensino fundamental pela rede pública e sua distribuição espacial: aplicação ao município de Niterói (RJ)
Authors: Pizzolato Nelio , Mizubuti Satie , Silva Guilherme
Published: September 2019

Visa a dois objetivos, ambos ilustrados com dados escolares do município de Niterói (RJ). O primeiro consiste em uma proposta metodológica para avaliar a oferta de vagas no ensino fundamental de forma a manter escolarizados todos os jovens na faixa de 7 a 14 anos. O segundo consiste em avaliar a distribuição espacial das escolas da rede pública, identificando regiões com excesso e/ou escassez de vagas. O caso estudado apresentou a surpresa de encontrar uma população escolar bastante superior à população demográfica, sugerindo a migração de alunos de outros municípios. Quanto à distribuição espacial das escolas, o estudo apontou as poucas áreas em que haveria necessidade adicional de vagas, mas destacou que, nos bairros onde predomina a população de classe média, poderá haver forte escassez, se tais segmentos optarem pela escola pública.

Palavras-chave: localização de escolas; rede escolar; ensino básico; capacidade da rede.

Abstract

This work has two objectives, both illustrated with schooling data of the municipality of Niterói, State of Rio de Janeiro. Firstly, a methodology is proposed to evaluate the capacity of the public system to offer basic education to all the population in the 7-14 age range. Secondly, the location of the public schools is evaluated in order to identify areas with shortage or excess of school places. The surprising finding of the study was that the enrolled population is larger than the demographic one. The possible explanation would be the migration of students from neighboring municipalities. Regarding school location, the study has identified a few areas in which additional school places would be desirable but emphasized the fact that scarcity would be serious in the districts where the middle classes predominate if such class members would demand the public system rather than the private one.

Keywords: school location; capacity of the school system; basic education; school
network.