bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large-Scale Learning for Local Change: The Challenge of MOOCs as Educator Professional Learning
Authors: Littenberg-Tobias Joshua , Slama Rachel , Reich Justin
Published: April 2020

How can large-scale online learning serve professionals' learning needs which are often highly localized? In this mixed-methods study, we examine this question through studying the learning experiences of participants in four massive open online courses (MOOCs) that we developed on educational change leadership (N = 1,712). We observed that participants were able to integrate their learning from the online courses across a variety of settings. We argue that a key factor in this process was that the design of online courses was attentive to the various levels in which participants processed and applied their learning. We therefore propose the “Content-Collaboration-Context" model ("C-C-C") as a framework for designing and researching open online learning experiences for professional learning settings where participants’ work is highly localized. In analyzing learner experiences in our MOOCs, we apply this framework to illustrate how individuals integrated the generalized content of the online courses into their context-specific practices. We conclude with implications for the design and research on online professional learning experiences.
INCENTIVO AO PRÉ- NATAL DO PARCEIRO NA ATENÇÃO PRIMÁRIA EM SAÚDE: UM RELATO DE EXPERIÊNCIA
Authors: Emília Araújo de Oliveira Ana , Marinho de Farias Gizele
Published: April 2020

INTRODUÇÃO: A Política Nacional de Atenção Integral à Saúde do Homem (PNAISH), instituída pelo Ministério da Saúde em 2009 tem como objetivo ampliar e facilitar o acesso da população masculina às ações e aos serviços de assistência integral à saúde no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS); aposta na perspectiva de inclusão do tema paternidade e cuidado, por meio do Pré-Natal do Parceiro, que trata da ampliação do acesso e acolhimento dos homens aos serviços e programas de saúde, incentivando o envolvimento integral dos homens na gestação, no parto, no cuidado e na educação das crianças, aprimorando os vínculos familiares. OBJETIVO: Sensibilizar a equipe de saúde, as gestantes e seus companheiros sobre a importância da realização do pré-natal do parceiro. MÉODOS: Estudo descritivo, tipo relato de experiência, elaborado no contexto do atendimento durante o Pré- Natal na UBS Adriana Bezerra no Município de Campina Grande- PB no mês de Setembro de 2018. RESULTADOS: Alcançar o maior número de homens acompanhando as suas parceiras na consulta de pré - natal e realizando o Pré-Natal do Parceiro. CONCLUSÃO: Conhecimento sobre o Pré-Natal do parceiro e a adesão do homem ao serviço de saúde.

Palavras chave: Saúde do Homem; Pré-Natal; Serviços de Saúde.
MobileCrowdSensing (MCS)
Authors: Mehta Umang , Soni Parth , Fiaidhi Jinan
Published: April 2020

Mobile crowd sensing (MSC) is a technique which uses these powerful devices – smartphones, tablet, computers, wearables devices to collect required data and extract information to measure, analyze, estimate or infer any processes of common interest. By using Participatory crown sensing technique, we are going to design an android application for parking system.
Waiving Federal Sovereign Immunity in Original Actions Between States
Authors: Zellmer Sandra
Published: April 2020

There are tremendous disparities between high stakes original actions between states before the U.S. Supreme Court, where there is no waiver of federal sovereign immunity, and other types of cases in the lower courts, where a plethora of immunity waivers allow states and other parties to seek relief from the federal government for Fifth Amendment takings, unlawful agency action, and tort claims. Federal actions or omissions are often at the heart of the dispute, and federal involvement may be crucial for purposes of providing an equitable remedy to the state parties, but there is no reliable mechanism for bringing the federal government to an original action before the Supreme Court. This Article shows how federal sovereign immunity stands in the way of comprehensive resolution of interstate water rights and highlights the need for reforms to facilitate meaningful participation by the United States. In particular, it investigates the merits of a waiver of federal sovereign immunity in original actions between the states. Although federal immunity is a staple of our nation’s jurisprudence, it has no constitutional basis and it serves little purpose in this context. The Article concludes that a congressional waiver of federal sovereign immunity would be appropriate and would have few downsides, at least in the case of original actions between states before the U.S. Supreme Court.
Comparing the traditional and Multiple Mini Interviews in the selection of post-graduate medical trainees
Authors: Sklar Michael , Eskander Antoine , Dore Kelly , Witterick Ian
Published: April 2020

Background: The traditional, panel style interview and the multiple mini interview (MMI) are two options to use in the selection of medical trainees with each interview format having inherent advantages and disadvantages. Our aim was to compare the traditional and MMI on the same cohort of postgraduate applicants to the Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery at the University of Toronto.Method: Twenty-seven applicants from the 2010 Canadian Residency Matching Service selected for interview at the University of Toronto, Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery were included in the study. Each applicant participated in both a traditional interview and MMI.Results:  Traditional interviews marked out of a total maximum score of 570.  On the traditional interview, scores ranged from 397-543.5 (69.6 - 95.3%), the mean was 460.2. The MMI maximum score was out of 180. MMI scores ranged from 93 – 146 (51.7 - 81.1%) with a mean of 114.8. Traditional interview total scores were plotted against MMI total scores. Scores correlated reasonably well, Pearson Correlation = 0.315 and is statistically significant at p = 0.001. Inter-interview reliability for the two interview methods was 0.038, with poor overall agreement 0.07%.Conclusions: MMI and traditional interview scores are correlated but do not reliably lead to the same rank order.  We have demonstrated that these two interview formats measure different characteristics.  One format may also be less reliable leading to greater variation in final rank.  Further validation research is certainly required.Key Words: Multiple mini interview; medical education; traditional interview; postgraduate admissions
Residents’ perceptions of an integrated longitudinal curriculum: a qualitative study
Authors: Lubitz Rebecca , Lee Joseph , Hillier Loretta
Published: April 2020

Background: The purpose of this study was to explore family medicine residents’ perceptions of a newly restructured integrated longitudinal curriculum.Method: A purposeful sample of 16 family medicine residents participated in focus group interviews conducted from a grounded theory perspective to identify the characteristics of this training model that contribute to and that challenge learning.Results:  Eight key themes were identified: continuity of care, relevance to family medicine, autonomy, program-focused preparation, professional development as facilitated by role modeling, patient volume, clarity of expectations for learners, and logistics. Positive learning experiences were marked by high levels of autonomy, continuity, and relevance to family medicine. Less favorable learning experiences were characterized by limited opportunities for continuity of care, limited relevance to family medicine practice and unclear expectations for the resident’s role. Family physician-led learning experiences contributed to residents’ understanding of the full scope of family medicine practice, more so than specialist-led experiences. The logistics of implementing the integrated block were challenging and negatively impacted continuity and learning.Conclusions: This study suggests that an integrated longitudinalized family medicine block training model has the potential to support the principles of a longitudinal integrated competency-based curriculum to effectively prepare residents for family medicine practice.
ОЦЕНКА ОШИБОК КОРРЕЛЯЦИОННО-ЭКСТРЕМАЛЬНОЙ НАВИГАЦИИ ПО КАРТЕ АНОМАЛИЙ СИЛЫ ТЯЖЕСТИ НА ОСНОВЕ ТРАЕКТОРНЫХ ИЗМЕРЕНИЙ С БОРТА АВТОНОМНОГО ПОДВОДНОГО РОБОТА
Authors: Dunaevskaya K.V. , Kiselev L.V. , Kostousov V.B. , Tarhanov A.E.
Published: April 2020

Оценки точности подводной навигации на основе данных гравиметрических измерений с борта автономного подводного робота непосредственно связаны с вопросами картографирования аномалий поля силы тяжести (АСТ) с помощью высокоточных малоразмерных гравиметров. В работе продолжены исследования, направленные на повышение точности навигации по карте АСТ с возможностью реализации алгоритмов навигационной коррекции в реальном времени. Для решения задачи исследован новый метод оценки ошибок корреляционно-экстремальной навигации, основанный на анализе отношения главного и бокового пиков корреляционного функционала. Особенность предлагаемого метода, в отличие от известного байесовского подхода, заключается в возможности его использования при реализации бортовых алгоритмов, а также и при предварительной оценке информативности карты поля для планирования маршрутов. Результаты вычислительных экспериментов показывают, что при определенных условиях исследуемая оценка близка к расчетной байесовской оценке.

The accuracy assessment of underwater navigationbased on gravimetric measurements, acquired from theautonomous underwater vehicle, is directly related to issuesof mapping the local gravitational field (LGF) usinghigh-precision small-sized gravimeters. The paper presentsresearch aimed to improve the accuracy of navigation usingthe map of LGF, which is suitable for the implementationof algorithms of real-time navigation correction. Addressedto this problem, the new method based on the analysis ofthe sidelobe level of the matching function was studied forestimating the error of correlation-extreme navigation. Thefeature of the proposed method, in contrast with the wellknownBayesian approach, lies in the opportunity of its implementationin onboard algorithms and utilization for thepreliminary assessment of informational content of the fieldmap for route planning. The results of computational experimentsshow that under certain conditions, the studiedestimates are near the calculated Bayesian estimate.
UMKM BERDAYA BERSAMA DESA WISATA
Authors: Realita Tasnim Nikmatullah , Anggoro Yudhi
Published: April 2020

Village tourism is an alternative development of tourism areas based on local wisdom, people's lifestyles that have shifted towards building harmony with nature are an excellent momentum to start focusing on developing tourist villages. Hard efforts are needed so that the sustainability of the tourism village as an alternative tourist destination can be maintained without ignoring the preservation of nature and social values as the village's fundamental identity. UMKM is a strategic partner that deals in symbiotic mutualism with the tourism village. So the development of tourist villages can not be separated from putting attention to the existing MSMEs. This paper will discuss the synergy of MSMEs with tourism villages through the study of relevant literature

Keyword: Desa Wisata, UMKM, Synergy, Local Wisdom
Ecological Fluidizing Solvent for Road Bitumen Obtained by Pyrolysis of Mucilages Resulting from the Refining of Sunflower Oil
Authors: Bombos Mihaela , Vasilievici Gabriel , Velea Sanda , Bombos Dorin
Published: April 2020

Catalytic pyrolysis of the mucilages resulting from the refining of vegetable oil was performed under optimal conditions for obtaining a flux for road bitumen. The mucilage emulsion was stabilized in a reverse emulsion containing the lipid fraction with a sorbitol-polyethoxylated fatty acid ester type surfactant. The pyrolysis of the mucilages was carried out in a continuous system, in a quartz tubular reactor, positioned in the central area of a vertical furnace. The experimental program was performed in the presence of the Cu catalyst at atmospheric pressure, temperature in the isothermal reaction zone 520 oC and liquid hourly space velocity of 0.5 h-1. The liquid fraction obtained was used to fluidize a road bitumen. The homogeneity of the fluidized bitumen was highlighted by determining the asphaltene content after its solidification.
Microwave Assisted Synthesis of Six Member Ring Azaheterocycles and Their Antimycobacterial and Anticancer Evaluation
Authors: Matarneh Cristina Al , Ciobanu Catalina-Ionica , Mangalagiu Violeta , Zbancioc Gheorghita , Danac Ramona
Published: April 2020

We report herein a comparative study concerning the influence of microwave (MW) irradiation comparative with conventional thermal heating (TH) in the reaction of six member ring azaheterocycles (derived from phenanthroline, quinoline, isoquinoline and phthalazine) with ethyl cyanoformate, and their anticancer and antimycobacterial activity. Under MW irradiation the reactions have some undeniable advantages: the reaction times decrease dramatically (from hours to minutes), the yields are higher, the reactions became selective in some cases (4,7-phenanthrolinium and phthalazinium ylides). The decreasing of reaction time+ from hours to minutes corroborated with the fact that in majority of cases the yield are higher and the selectivity is better, allow us to say that these reactions could be considered as eco-friendly. As far for biological activity, three of the compounds exhibited a significant antitumor activity against some cancer cell lines including prostate cancer, leukemia, renal cancer, lung cancer and breast cancer. The best potency in terms of growth inhibition of tumor cells (~45%) was shown by compound 4a against renal cancer A498 and ovarian cancer SK-OV-3 cells. The tested compounds have not shown any antimycobacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Assessing Gram-stain error rates within the pharmaceutical microbiology laboratory
Authors: Sandle Tim
Published: April 2020

Gram-staining remains the fundamental method for determinative bacteriology, dividing bacteria into Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. This test provides information as to the origin of any contamination and is a pre-requisite for many microbial identification methods. Despite the longevity of the test, the test is highly reliant upon analyst technique and therefore errors occur. While there are a few studies looking at errors in the clinical context, research has not been extended to the pharmaceutical microbiology laboratory context. In this study, we present a review of over 6,000 Gram-stains and establish an error rate of around 3%, with the most common reason for error being an over-decolourisation step resulting in organisms that should be Gram-positive appearing as Gram-negative. The analysis enables others to benchmark their facilities against.
Sürücülerin Algısal Motor ve Güvenlik Becerilerinin İşitsel ve Görsel İkincil Görev Sırasında Sergilenen Şerit Koruma Performansındaki Rolü
Authors: Özbozdağlı Seda , Mısırlısoy Mine , Özkan Türker , Atalay Nart Bedin
Published: April 2020

Mevcut çalışmanın
amacı, sürücülerin algısal motor ve güvenlik becerileri hakkındaki
değerlendirmelerinin işitsel ve görsel ikincil görevler sırasında sergilenen
şerit pozisyonundaki değişkenliği yordama güçlerini araştırmaktır. Araç
simülatörünün kullanıldığı deneylere toplamda 66 sürücü katılımda bulunmuştur.
Görsel ve işitsel ikincil görev gruplarına eşit şekilde atanan katılımcılardan
Sürücülük Becerisi Ölçeğini doldurmaları istenmiştir. Çoklu doğrusal regresyon
analizlerinden elde edilen bulgulara göre, işitsel ikincil görev sürüşe eşlik
ettiğinde, algısal motor ve güvenlik becerilerinin şeritten sapma miktarını
yordamadaki katkıları anlamlı değildir. İşitsel görev grubundaki katılımcılar
sadece sürüş ile ilgilendiklerinde, algısal motor becerilerin şerit pozisyonundaki
değişkenlik ile negatif yönde ilişkili olduğu bulunmuştur. İkincil görevin
görsel olduğu durumda ve aynı grubun sadece sürüşe odaklandığı durumda algısal
motor beceriler ile şerit pozisyonundaki değişkenlik arasında negatif bir
ilişki saptanmıştır. Hem işitsel hem görsel ikincil görev gruplarındaki tüm
deney koşullarında, güvenlik becerileri ile şerit pozisyonundaki değişkenlik
arasında anlamlı bir ilişki tespit edilememiştir. İlgili alanyazın temel alınarak çalışmadan elde edilen
bulgular tartışılmıştır.
Akıllı Telefon Bağımlılığı ile Sürücü Davranışları Arasındaki İlişki
Authors: Büyükbaş Serpil , Tekin Ehil , Tekeş Burcu
Published: April 2020

Türkiye İstatistik Kurumu 2018 yılı verilerine göre
cep telefonu abone sayısı son 10 yılda %30 oranında artış göstererek 80637671’e
ulaşmıştır (Türkiye İstatistik Kurumu [TÜİK], 2018). Cep telefonu
kullanımındaki bu hızlı artışa bağlı olarak telefon kullanım alanları
genişlemiş ve trafik ortamına da girmiştir. Bu duruma bağlı olarak trafik
ortamında telefon kullanımı sürücülerin dikkatlerinin dağılmasına neden
olmaktadır. Dikkati dağınık sürücülük ise, trafik ortamında pek çok soruna yol
açmakta ve sürücü davranışlarını etkilemektedir. Bu bilgilerden yola çıkarak,
bu çalışmada sürücü davranışları ile sürücülerin akıllı telefon bağımlılıkları
arasındaki ilişkinin incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Çalışmanın örneklemini 18-42
yaş aralığındaki ehliyeti olan 47’si kadın 87’si erkek olmak üzere toplam 134
katılımcı oluşturmaktadır. Çalışmada Sürücü Davranışları Ölçeği (SDÖ) (Lajunen
ve Özkan, 2004) ve Akıllı Telefon Bağımlılığı Ölçeği’nin (SAS) (Noyan,
Enez-Darçın, Nurmedov, Yılmaz ve Dilbaz, 2015) kısa formu kullanılmıştır.
Yapılan hiyerarşik regresyon analizi sonuçlarına göre, hatalar, sıradan ihlaller,
agresif ihlaller ve ihmaller ile akıllı telefon bağımlılığı arasında pozitif
yönde anlamlı ilişkiler bulunmuştur. Ayrıca, sıradan ihlaller ile cinsiyet ve
günlük akıllı telefon kullanım sıklığı arasında da pozitif yönde anlamlı bir
ilişki bulunmuştur. Çalışmanın bulguları ilgili literatür kapsamında
tartışılmıştır.
Sürücü Demografik Özelliklerinin Trafikte Kaçınma Davranışı ile İlişkisi
Authors: Özkan Özgün , Öz Bahar
Published: April 2020

Sürücülerin yolda sergiledikleri riskli davranışlar, trafik güvenliğini
olumsuz etkileyen temel unsurlardandır. Genel çerçevede incelendiğinde bu
davranışlar ihlaller gibi niyetli, ya da hatalar gibi niyet içermeyen
davranışlardan oluşabilir. Bununla birlikte bu tür riskli davranışların ortaya
çıkmasıyla ilişkilendirilebilecek kaçınma davranışı da başlı başına incelenmesi
gereken bir unsur olarak karşımıza çıkmaktadır. Sürücülerin hava durumu, trafik
durumu, kaza geçmişi gibi pek çok nedenden dolayı kaçınma davranışı
gösterdikleri görülmektedir. Bu çalışmanın amacı, sürücülerin demografik
özelliklerinin kaçınma davranışı ile ilişkisinin incelenmesidir. Çalışmanın
örneklemini 153 erkek, 138 kadın, toplam 291 katılımcı oluşturmaktadır. Veri
toplamak amacıyla demografik bilgi formu ve Araç Kullanma ve Araca Binmekten
Kaçınma Ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Öncelikle Araç Kullanma ve Araca Binmekten
Kaçınma Ölçeği Türkçe’ye uyarlanıp faktör analizi ile uygunluğu test
edilmiştir. Daha sonra demografik özellikler ve kaçınma davranışı arasındaki
ilişkiyi incelemek adına aşamalı regresyon analizi uygulanmıştır. Bulgular,
sürücülerin kaçınma davranışlarının kaza geçmişleriyle pozitif, yaş ile negatif
yönde ilişkili olduğunu göstermiştir. Bununla birlikte kadın sürücülerin erkek
sürücülere göre trafikte daha fazla kaçınma davranışı gösterdiği
bulgulanmıştır. Sonuçlar trafik güvenliğini etkileyebilecek potansiyele sahip
olan kaçınma davranışını ve bu davranışı gösteren sürücü profilini anlamak
adına önemlidir.
Dajanje „literarnih” imen na Poljskem
Authors: Cieślikowa Aleksandra , Malec Maria
Published: April 2020

V članku avtorici obravnavata dajanje „literarnih” imen na Poljskem. Pri tem razlikujeta književnost verskega značaja (Biblija, obredna besedila, življenjepisi svetnikov), ki je vir krščanskih imen, od književnosti posvetnega značaja in z njo povezano literarno motivacijo imen. Nadalje so bili ugotovljeni nekateri postopki, povezani z dajanjem literarnih imen na Poljskem. Na koncu je bil podan poskus oblikovanja definicije pojma „literarno ime”.
Akademik Izmail Ivanovič Sreznjevski in rezijanščina
Authors: D. Duličenko Aleksandr
Published: April 2020

V članku avtor obravnava odnos I. I. Sreznjevskega do rezijanščine ter rezijanske kulture in folklore, kar ponazarja z izvlečki iz njegovih popotnih zapiskov o Reziji leta 1841. Sreznjevski je Rezijo obiskal kot prvi slavist. Potovanje po Reziji je bilo samo del njegovih popotovanj po mnogih slovanskih deželah v letih 1839–1842.
Jakominov Mali cerkveni slovar
Authors: Legan Ravnikar Andreja
Published: April 2020

V prispevku je predstavljen poljudni slovar katoliškega izrazja Dušana . Jakomina, ki je dobrodošel strokovni priročnik za slovenske vernike in laično javnost. Na strnjen in pregleden način razlaga osnovne pojme, povezane s katoliško veroizpovedjo in Cerkvijo kot ustanovo. Vsebuje predvsem liturgično in svetopisemsko, deloma pa tudi cerkvenoupravno in teološko izrazje.
25. mednarodni kongres Društva mladih jezikoslovcev v Valladolidu
Authors: Michelizza Mija
Published: April 2020

Prispevek je poročilo o 25. mednarodnem kongresu Društva mladih jezikoslovcev v Valladolidu v Španiji, ki je potekal od 10. do 12. marca 2010 in na katerem je nastopilo okoli 150 udeležencev – mladih raziskovalcev iz različnih držav in z različnih celin. Poleg mladih jezikoslovcev, ki so predstavili svoje raziskave z vseh področij jezikoslovja, so na kongresu nastopili še trije povabljeni predavatelji, uveljavljeni jezikoslovci: Teun A. van Dijk, Manuel García Teijeiro in José Antonio Pascual.
O terminološkem slovarju in računalniški podpori - ob izdelavi botaničnega terminološkega slovarja
Authors: Košmrlj-Levačič Maja
Published: April 2020

Namen pričujočega prispevka je opozoriti na nekatere značilnosti terminološkega slovarja in njegove izdelave ter prikazati prizadevanja, da bi prišli do računalniškega orodja, s katerim bi bilo mogoče v Sekciji za terminološke slovarje Inštituta za slovenski jezik Frana Ramovša ZRC SAZU celovito podpreti vse faze pri nastajanju slovarja. Pri tem je bilo potrebno upoštevati dejanske materialne in personalne možnosti in omejitve. Problematiko bomo predstavili tako, kot jo vidi sestavljavec slovarja.
Critical Reflections on Selected Local Narratives of Contextual South African Indigenous Knowledge
Authors: Masoga Mogomme Alpheus
Published: April 2020

Every humanity has some form of indigeneity – whether conscious or unconscious. It behooves all humanity to redefine and reflect on its indigenous roots. Indigenous Knowledge (IK) has been termed in different ways. These include traditional, cultural, local, community knowledge, etc. All these are interlinked and imply that IK is a body of “knowledge” owned by local people in their specific communities and passed on from generation to generation. Therefore, IK is that knowledge which is known to a group of people or is embedded in a community. It could be rural or urban. The chapter aims to present and reflect on selected local narratives to construct a context. This chapter argues for the ‘contextual' dimension when looking at IK. For the past eighteen years the researcher has worked with a number of practitioners and knowledge holders whose experience has shaped his understanding of the South African IK dialogues, debates, research and studies. The approach adopted for this study is a reflexive one.
Intellectual Property Rights and the Protection of Africa's Traditional Knowledge
Authors: Assay Benjamin Enahoro
Published: April 2020

This chapter examines the media, intellectual property rights and the protection of Africa's traditional knowledge in the digital age. It reviews literature on intellectual property, intellectual property rights, the various forms of intellectual property rights and the misappropriation and infringement on intellectual property rights, traditional knowledge, and media in digital age. The chapter provides perspectives on the issues and controversies on the non-protection of traditional knowledge within the existing frameworks of IP system and rules. It points out that the products of Africa's traditional knowledge are in dire need of protection against global competitors and therefore urges African governments to take advantage of the IP rules to negotiate with industrialized countries for the protection of their products. The chapter called for the enactment of tougher legislations to halt the menace of counterfeiting and digital piracy and deliberate use of the media to promote the products. It also made some recommendations that would help Africa defend its IP.
Enhancing Learning Opportunities Through Development of Open and Distance Education in Africa
Authors: Pande Suresh Kumar
Published: April 2020

Africa's success in today's information-based world economy will require an accelerated demographic transition to a flexible, educated, and healthy workforce. An analysis presented in the World Bank's “Can Africa Claim the 21st Century?” states that African economies will need to replace reliance on natural resources with skilled labour in order to halt the erosion of its share in world trade and to achieve a reduction in poverty (World Bank, 2001). Tilak (2009) submits that only between 6 and 7% of those qualified to obtain tertiary education do get placement in African universities. As a result of this shortage of places in African universities, many qualified candidates turned their search towards open and distance learning institutions. The growth of information and communication technologies has facilitated the expansion of open and distance mode of education. On the African Continent where resources are scarce and higher education provision is poor, ODL has been accepted as a viable, cost effective means of expanding provision without costly outlay in infrastructure.
Prognostic Accuracy of Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II Scores in Critically Ill Cancer Patients
Authors: Chang Lilu , Horng Cheng-Fang , Huang Yuh-Chin T. , Hsieh Yen-Yau
Published: April 2020

• BackgroundThe predictive accuracy of scores on the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) for in-hospital mortality among critically ill cancer patients varies.

• ObjectiveTo evaluate the predictive accuracy of APACHE II scores for severity of illness in critically ill cancer patients and to find clinical indicators to improve the accuracy.

• MethodsActual hospital mortality rates were compared with predicted rates. Data were collected prospectively from 1263 cancer patients admitted to the intensive care unit during a 5-year period in a cancer center in Taiwan. The APACHE II score for each patient was calculated at admission. Stepwise logistic regression was used to identify clinical predictors associated with increased mortality.

• ResultsThe scores ranged from 2 to 54. The mortality rates were 19% overall, 45% for medical patients, and 1% for surgical patients. The fit of the scores was good for the medical patients (Hosmer-Lemeshow statistic 8.2, P = .41). The estimated odds ratios for mortality of presence of metastasis and respiratory failure were 4.18 (95% CI 2.65–6.59) and 2.03 (95% CI 1.22–3.38), respectively. When metastasis and respiratory failure were incorporated into the APACHE II model, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for medical patients increased from 0.82 to 0.86. The fit of the modified model was excellent (Hosmer and Lemeshow statistic 6.57, P=.58).

• ConclusionsAPACHE II scores are predictive of hospital mortality in critically ill cancer patients. The presence of metastasis and respiratory failure at admission are also associated with outcome.
Detection of Inadvertent Airway Intubation During Gastric Tube Insertion: Capnography Versus a Colorimetric Carbon Dioxide Detector
Authors: Burns Suzanne M. , Carpenter Richard , Blevins Cheri , Bragg Sharon , Marshall Mary , Browne Liz , Perkins Martha , Bagby Rebecca , Blackstone Kris , Truwit Jonathon D.
Published: April 2020

• Background In the medical intensive care unit at the University of Virginia Health System, capnography is used to detect end-tidal carbon dioxide to protect patients from inadvertent airway cannulation during placement of gastric tubes.

• Objectives To compare the method in which capnography is used with a method in which a colorimetric carbon dioxide detector is used and to determine what variables affect accurate placement of gastric tubes.

• Methods A prospective convenience sample of 195 gastric tube insertions was studied in 130 adult patients in a medical intensive care unit. Standard insertions of gastric tubes (done with capnography) were simultaneously monitored by using a disposable colorimetric device, with a color change indicating the presence of carbon dioxide.

• ResultsInsertion variables included tube type (60% Salem sump tubes, 40% soft-bore feeding tubes), route of insertion (71% oral, 29% nasal), mechanical ventilation (81%), and decreased mental status (72%). Carbon dioxide was successfully detected with the colorimetric indicator (within seconds) in all insertions in which carbon dioxide was detected by capnography. When carbon dioxide was detected (27% of insertions), the tubes were withdrawn and reinserted. Carbon dioxide detection during tube placement was significantly associated with nasal insertions (P = .03) and spontaneously breathing/nonintubated status (P=.01) but not with mental status or tube type.

• Conclusions A colorimetric device is as accurate as capnography for detecting carbon dioxide during placement of gastric tubes.
Oral Health Status and Development of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Munro Cindy L. , Grap Mary Jo , Elswick R.K. , McKinney Jessica , Sessler Curtis N. , Hummel Russell S.
Published: April 2020

• Background Ventilator-associated pneumonia is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality and may be influenced by oral health.

• Objective To describe the relationship between ventilator-associated pneumonia and oral health status, changes in oral health status during the first 7 days after intubation, and microbial colonization of the oropharynx and trachea.

• Methods A total of 66 patients were enrolled within 24 hours of intubation and were followed up for up to 7 days. Data on oral health measures and the Clinical Pulmonary Infection Score (CPIS) were collected at baseline, day 4 (n = 37), and day 7 (n = 21). A regression model was used to predict risk of pneumonia at day 4.

• ResultsDental plaque and oral organisms increased over time. Correlations were significant for baseline and day 4 dental plaque (P < .001), baseline salivary lactoferrin and day 4 plaque (P = .01), and lower salivary volume and higher day 4 CPIS (P = .02). Potential pathogens were identified in oral cultures for 6 patients before or at the same time as the appearance of the organisms in tracheal aspirates. Correlations were significant with day 4 CPIS for score on the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II (P = .007), day 4 salivary volume (P = .02), interaction of APACHE II score and day 1 CPIS (P<.001), and interaction of day 1 CPIS and plaque (P=.01).

• Conclusions Higher dental plaque scores confer greater risk for ventilator-associated pneumonia, particularly for patients with greater severity of illness. Salivary volume and lactoferrin may affect the risk.
Comparison of Anxiety Between Smokers and Nonsmokers With Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Sheahan Sharon L. , Rayens Mary K. , An Kyungeh , Riegel Barbara , McKinley Sharon , Doering Lynn , Garvin Bonnie J. , Moser Debra K.
Published: April 2020

• Background Increased anxiety correlates with increased complications after acute myocardial infarction. Anxiety levels and use of anxiolytic agents have not been compared between smokers and nonsmokers hospitalized because of acute myocardial infarction.

• Objectives To compare anxiety level, sociodemographic factors, and clinical variables between smokers and nonsmokers hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction and to examine predictors of use of β-blockers and anxiolytic agents among smokers and nonsmokers.

• Methods Secondary data analysis of a prospective multisite study on anxiety in 181 smokers and 351 nonsmokers with acute myocardial infarction. Anxiety was measured by using the State Trait Anxiety Inventory and the anxiety subscale of the Basic Symptom Inventory within 72 hours of admission.

• Results Smokers reported higher anxiety levels than nonsmokers reported on both anxiety scales. Female smokers reported the highest anxiety and peak pain levels of all, yet women were the least likely to receive anxiolytic agents. Smoking status was not a predictor for anxiety level when sex, peak pain, use of β-blockers in the hospital, and age were controlled for. However, smokers were twice as likely as nonsmokers to receive an anxiolytic agent and 60% more likely to receive a β-blocker in the emergency department, and smokers were 80% more likely than nonsmokers to receive an anxiolytic agent during hospitalization when these variables were controlled.

• Conclusions Older female smokers are at risk for complications because they are older than their male counterparts and less likely to receive β-blockers and antianxiety medications in the emergency department.
International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) Adoption and Its Impact on Financial Reporting: Evidence from Listed Nigeria Oil and Gas Companies
Authors: Zakari Murtala
Published: April 2020

This study seeks to investigate the impact of IFRS adoption on financial reporting in Nigeria Oil and Gas sector; whether it leads to significant financial reporting improvement in terms of value addition and quality; whether it reduces information asymmetry and increases investors’ confidence and understanding of the financial reports. To achieve this, data were collected from financial statements prepared using IFRS for the periods 2012-2016, and financial statements prepared using Nigeria GAAP for the periods 2007-2011, i.e. pre and post IFRS adoption in Nigeria for a period of 5years each. Analysis was conducted to test for the significance level of ROE, PAT/Sales, CA/CL, and debt-to-equity using mean, standard deviation of ratios, and T-test (paired) for both periods. The researcher found that Nigerian GAAP is more attractive and promising to shareholders than IFRS. In the same vein, IFRS is more attractive and promising to long term lenders than Nigerian GAAP. The study concludes that there is no significant financial reporting difference and quality as well as increased comparability and investors/shareholders return on investment, in adopting IFRS compare to the Nigerian GAAP by the listed Oil and Gas companies of Nigeria.
Are the benefits of lean rapid process improvement workshops in healthcare worth the investment?
Authors: Chan James G. , Safaei Jalil , Rotter Thomas
Published: April 2020

Background: Many organizations have adopted Lean tools to improve healthcare, but few studies adequately evaluate the effectiveness of Lean tools, such as Rapid Process Improvement Workshops (RPIWs).Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of RPIWs conducted in surgical services at two hospital sites from economic and statistical perspectives.Methods: Retrospective data over three years from the two interventions sites were used for a cost-benefit analysis in the form of Return on Investment (ROI). The Interrupted Time Series (ITS) method was used to analyze the trends of selected process measures such as surgical volumes, overtime, and sick time hours during intervention and post-intervention periods at the two sites. Also, comparable data from two control sites were used to statistically compare the trends of some of the process measures between the intervention and control sites.Results: The cumulative effects of the six RPIWs performed at each site were examined. The results did not produce any evidence to indicate that the outcomes justify the investments. The ITS analysis revealed no indication of systematic and sustained change in the pattern of process measures at the intervention sites as a result of RPIWs. Nor did they provide significant or conclusive evidence when comparing the process measures between the intervention and control sites.Conclusions: This study identifies some of the difficulties of empirically calculating the ROI of RPIWs, and provides evidence that any realized benefits due to RPIWs implemented in two hospitals were not worth the investment. Such a result may lead us to challenge any unfounded claims of high monetary benefits from Lean tools or similar quality improvement initiatives.
Development and Physicochemical, Sensory and Microbiological Characterization of Ferment Milk With Addition of Cupuaçu
Authors: Paula Nélio Ranieli F. , Araújo Érica O. , Almeida Emily E. , Cerqueira Joene P.
Published: April 2020

The development of dairy products using probiotic microorganisms has been an important focus in the food industry. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical, sensory and microbiological quality of fermented milk with addition of cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorum) flavor. The experimental design used was completely randomized, with five replicates, arranged in a 4 × 2 × 2 factorial scheme, consisting of fermented milk with addition of four different strains of probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus casei shirota, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus paracasei), presence and absence of cupuaçu flavor, and two evaluation times (1 and 7 days of storage). The results allowed us to conclude that the bacterial strain B (Lactobacillus casei) led to higher values of L*, b*, %Brix and pH. In the presence of cupuaçu flavor, the values of pH, L*, b* and %Brix were significantly higher, which allows us to infer that cupuaçu pulp contributes to decreasing the values of pH and increasing the acidity, lightness, b* and %Brix of fermented milk. Fermented milk with addition of bacteria A (Lactobacillus casei shirota) in the presence of cupuaçu flavor showed reduction in pH and %Brix and, therefore, better acceptance by consumers and bioconservation. The presence of cupuaçu flavor in fermented milk with bacteria B (Lactobacillus casei) alters L* and b* at seven days of storage. Fermented milk with addition of cupuaçu flavor constitutes an opportunity and possibility for developing new flavors from Amazonian fruits, strongly contributing to the durability of dairy products, since the physicochemical, sensory and microbiological characteristics are enhanced within the standards of food safety.
Socio-economic Evaluation of the Warrantage Mechanism in North Benin (West Africa): Case of the Maize and Rice Producers
Authors: Sossou Comlan Hervé , Codjo Victor
Published: April 2020

Warrantage is a type of proximity stock associated with a widely used credit system. It is a financing system that allows farmers to deposit their harvesting products in a warehouse managed by a farmer organization to receive a loan from a financial institution in return. The objective of this study is to carry out a socio-economic evaluation of the warrantage mechanism in northern Benin. Data were collected using questionnaires and interview guides from a sample of 94 rice and maize producers. The perception of the profitability of the warrantage transaction was analyzed using the Pearson chi-square homogeneity test, while the economic evaluation of this profitability was done using the profit margin calculation. The analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, potentialities and obstacles of the producer-level warrantage mechanism has been done through Kendall’s W-rank test. This study revealed that warrantage operation generated a high and positive profit margin for maize and rice crops. The study also revealed that the sale at a remunerative price, the good conservation of the stocks and the obtaining of credits constitute its strengths. The delay in setting up the credit granted and the unavailability of products for the treatment of stored products were weaknesses. The existence of micro-finance structures and the availability of producers to participate in the process have been the potentialities of the warrantage operation while the inexistence of market for the sale of stored products and the lack of adequate warehouses for storage constitute these obstacles. For a perfect success of this operation, it was hoped a more offensive awareness of beneficiaries and a timely start of the operation by the rapid introduction of credit to mobilize more producers.
Storage of Wood Chips
Authors: Anerud Erik , Larsson Gunnar , Eliasson Lars
Published: April 2020

To make forest biomass more competitive, increased efficiency in the handling and supply system is needed, thus producing high-quality fuel at a lower cost. Operating costs can be reduced if the target chip size is increased, as this increases productivity and reduces chipper fuel consumption. However, the chips need to be storedin order to meet fluctuating seasonal demand and maintain high machine utilisation. Due to biomass degradation, storage of comminuted biomass can lead to high energy losses, but can also increase fuel quality, e.g. by reducing moisture content and increasing net calorific value. This study evaluated the effects of storage on dry matter losses and differences in fuel quality of the stored biomass for three target chip sizes and three materials during six months of storage. The results showed that coarse chips had significantly lower moisture content and lower energy losses after storage than fine chips. Overall, changes during storage resulted in an economic loss of 3–4% per oven-dry ton for fine chips, but an economic gain of 2–6% for coarse chips. Thus increased target chip size can increase the competitiveness of forest biomass through decreased production costs and reduced storage costs. It can also ensure higher, more consistent fuel quality.
Maintenance Decision Method Based on Risk Level
Authors: Tang Yang , Yang Xin , Wang Guorong
Published: April 2020

Maintenance decision method of the mechanical equipment still has some deficiencies and shortcomings, including unreasonable maintenance methods, surplus or insufficient repair, and unscientific inspection and repair intervals, especially for equipment with different risks. As a consequence, more frequent failures and higher maintenance costs of the mechanical equipment occur along with some major safety accidents and economic losses in the process of production. To overcome these problems, a framework for maintenance decision method based on risk level is presented for mechanical equipment in the petrochemical industry. First, 10 evaluation indexes and a set of scoring criteria quantifying the subjective evaluation are defined to evaluate the risk level of each mechanical equipment. Based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), the weight of the evaluation indexes and the evaluation model of the risk levels were established. Then, the subjective effects in the scoring process were removed using the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) approach. Next, maintenance decision-making trees of the mechanical equipment were formulated by referencing the logic decision tree of reliability-centered maintenance. Finally, the feasibility of the framework was effectively verified by testing a well-control system in the oil field, for which the risk level and maintenance methods were obtained.
Socio-spatial differentiation in transition: a preliminary comparative analysis of post-soviet St Petersburg and Riga
Authors: Zhitin Dmitrii V. , Krisjane Zaiga , Sechi Guido , Berzins Maris
Published: April 2020

Research into the socio-spatial dynamics in Central European cities is an important area of contemporary transition studies. Open issues in this domain range from defining a theoretical framework to data availability and methodological approaches. As to the former aspect, recent literature focuses on the hybrid nature of the post-socialist urban space, which underwent modernization in the conditions of globalization and economic liberalization; the earlier model of spatial development changed dramatically as a result. The multi-scalar and comparative approaches may shed new light on the complex patterns of urban socio-spatial differentiation and its post-Soviet dynamics. Growing regional socio-economic imbalances observed in the former socialist states are lending new urgency to this area of research. This study employs a comparative approach to investigate post-1991 socio-spatial transformations in St Petersburg and Riga — the two largest post-Soviet urban centres in the Baltic Sea region. An important result of the research is a methodology for multi-level analysis of changes in the urban environment of post-socialist cities. Data from post-1991 national censuses and population registers are used to calculate measures of social well-being in urban districts as well as to identify territorial imbalances. Comparative analysis makes it possible to trace the spatial patterns of post-Soviet differentiation and set out guidelines for further research in the area.
“Quem tem... barriga tem medo”: imagens de capoeiras na imprensa ilustrada da corte
Authors: Balaban Marcelo
Published: April 2020

A capoeira foi uma atividade que assombrou mentes e corações de pessoas de boa condição social no Rio de Janeiro ao longo do século XIX. Seus praticantes, da mesma forma, causaram sérios problemas e impuseram todo tipo de dilema para as autoridades imperiais. Este artigo analisa imagens de capoeiras publicadas na imprensa ilustrada da corte na década final da escravidão no Brasil. Defende o argumento de serem tais imagens uma preciosa fonte para estudar tanto os pontos de vistas dos autores das caricaturas, como os dos personagens – em particular negros, pardos, mulatos de condições variadas − das estampas publicadas naqueles semanários. Presta especial atenção a uma repetição: os capoeiras, supostamente, atacavam as barrigas dos burgueses. Ao tentar explicar essa repetição, e a escolha desse peculiar alvo, investiga algumas das tensões sociorraciais que estiveram no centro dos debates e embates políticos que marcaram, e integraram, o processo que culminou com a abolição da escravidão no Brasil. 
Movement of amino acids into isolated plant mitochondria
Authors: Proudlove Michael O. , Moore Anthony L.
Published: July 2002

Aspartate, glutamate, serine and glycine all permeate the inner membrane of mitochondria isolated from both etiolated and green plant tissues. No significant difference was found in the transport characteristics shown by mitochondria from either tissue. Influx of each amino acid appears diffusional because substrate saturation was not observed and there was no indication of specific inhibition or a requirement for a compensatory or counter ion for uptake. In contrast, uptake of the keto acid pyruvate did appear saturable. Inhibition by α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamate, mersalyl and FCCP, but not valinomycin, suggests a carrier and a ΔpH mediate pyruvate transport into the matrix.
Evidence for a glycolate transporter in the envelope of pea chloroplasts
Authors: Howitz Konrad T. , McCarty Richard E.
Published: July 2002

Glycolate excretion by chloroplasts is essential to the process of photorespiration. Previous transport studies on intact chloroplasts have failed to find evidence for carrier‐mediated transport of glycolate. The rate of glycolate uptake, when measured by a rapid silicone oil centrifugation method, saturates at high glycolate concentrations. This rapid glycolate uptake is inhibited by pretreatment of the chloroplasts with N‐ethylmaleimide, an inhibition prevented by glycolate. Glyoxylate and glycerate inhibit glycolate uptake when present in the assay medium. These results suggest the existence of a glycolate transporter in the chloroplast envelope.