bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of Short-Term Infusion of Magnesium Sulfate in Pediatric Patients With Status Asthmaticus
Authors: Irazuzta Jose , Egelund Tosha , Wassil Sarah K. , Hampp Christian
Published: October 2012

OBJECTIVE

This report describes the feasibility of high-dose magnesium sulfate infusion in pediatric patients with status asthmaticus.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review over a 3-year period of all patients younger than 18 years of age with status asthmaticus who underwent a high-dose magnesium sulfate infusion for 4 hours. All patients were breathing spontaneously but were refractory to conventional therapy. The magnesium sulfate infusion regimen was 50 mg/kg (for patients weighing >30 kg) or 75 mg/kg (for those weighing ≤30 kg) over a period of 30 to 45 minutes, followed by a continuous infusion of 40 mg/kg/hr for 4 hours. Information regarding vital and clinical respiratory signs, serum magnesium (SrMg), ionized magnesium (iMg), electrocardiograms, and cardiac troponin levels were retrieved. We analyzed the relationship between SrMg and iMg by using linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients were included. At the end of the infusion, SrMg levels were 4.4 ± 0.8 mg/dL, and iMg levels were 0.95 ± 0.2 mmol/L. SrMg levels only moderately predicted iMg (r2 = 0.541). There were no reports of hypotension, respiratory failure, neurological problems, or nausea. Discomfort at the site of infusion was reported in three cases. Troponin levels (n = 12) and electrocardiograms (n = 12), when available, were noted at the end of the infusion and were normal in all patients p=0.01.

CONCLUSIONS

In this case series, short-term high-dose administration of magnesium sulfate in the context of status asthmaticus was feasible, and we did not observe clinical complications with its use. Total SrMg was inadequate to reflect the active form of magnesium, iMg. The dose used achieved theoretical therapeutic levels of iMg.
Inappropriate Vancomycin Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Hospitalized Pediatric Patients Increases Pediatric Trauma and Hospital Costs
Authors: Suryadevara Manika , Steidl Kelly E. , Probst Luke A. , Shaw Jana
Published: October 2012

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to measure the appropriateness of vancomycin monitoring in a pediatric tertiary care center and to evaluate the effectiveness of two interventions, autonomous pharmacy therapeutic drug monitoring and health care provider education, in reducing avoidable pediatric patient trauma and hospital cost.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review evaluating vancomycin therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in pediatric inpatients was performed before and after the introduction of an autonomous pharmacy TDM program and health care provider (HCP) education.

RESULTS

Thirty-five patients were included in our study, prior to any intervention. Of these, 9% of patients had trough concentrations appropriately deferred. Of the total of 64 trough concentrations obtained, 94% were considered to be inappropriate. After the start of the autonomous pharmacy TDM program, of the 54 eligible patients (111 troughs), 9% had trough concentrations appropriately deferred, and 34% were inappropriate. In the 3-month period following the introduction of HCP education in combination with pharmacy TDM, we identified 27 eligible patients. Among those, 15% of the patients had trough concentrations appropriately deferred. Of the 43 trough concentrations obtained, only 9% were considered to be inappropriate. The combination of pharmacy TDM with HCP education decreased annualized hospital cost by 60%, from $13,080 to $5232.

CONCLUSIONS

Inappropriate vancomycin TDM occurs commonly in our institution, resulting in unnecessary hospital cost and patient trauma. The combination of pharmacy TDM and HCP education significantly improved clinical practice; however, results were short-lived. Further interventions, such as computer based order entry, will likely be needed to reinforce and improve long-term TDM practice in pediatric patients.
Implementation of a Standardized Process for Ordering and Dispensing of High-Alert Emergency Medication Infusions
Authors: Polischuk Emily , Vetterly Carol G. , Crowley Kelli L. , Thompson Ann , Goff Jeff , Nguyen-Ha Phuong-Tan , Modery Christine
Published: October 2012

OBJECTIVES

Pharmacies encounter challenges when ensuring safe, timely medication dispensing to patients in the pediatric intensive care unit, when high-alert medications are needed in emergent situations. Removal of these medications from nursing stock presented challenges to providing timely administration to critical patients. The project's purpose was to develop a new method for reducing dispensing time while improving patient safety in pediatric intensive care units.

METHODS

A committee of physicians, nurses, a clinical pharmacist, and pharmacy administration collaborated for process development. The process established a list of compounded, ready-to-use infusions stored in the pharmacy, immediately available for dispensing. The dispensing mechanism includes ordering and dispensing processes using an “Urgent Drip Request” form. Most frequently ordered infusions (dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine) were added to automated dispensing cabinets in critical care units in concentrations that could be safely infused centrally or peripherally.

RESULTS

During the initial 4 months, 71 “Urgent Drip Request” sheets were processed. Drug utilization evaluation demonstrated a dispensing time of less than 1 minute for drip medications leaving the pharmacy after the form was received. No sheets processed exceeded the institutional 30-minute turnaround time, nor were errors or delays documented. Limited turnaround time data existed preimplementation but was not robust enough for analysis. It was not ethically feasible to perform a head-to-head comparison with the previous method, as it might have resulted in delay of therapy and negative patient outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

This program allows high-alert medication infusion availability in an expedited manner, removes potential for compounding errors at the bedside, and assures clean room preparation. This has improved pharmacy efficiency in provision of safe patient care to critically ill pediatric patients.
Chloramphenicol Toxicity Revisited: A 12-Year-Old Patient With a Brain Abscess
Authors: Wiest Donald B. , Cochran Joel B. , Tecklenburg Fred W.
Published: October 2012

Chloramphenicol, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, is rarely used in the United States due to its well-described adverse effects. Because of its limited use, many clinicians are unfamiliar with its indications, spectrum of activity, and potential adverse drug effects. We describe a 12-year-old patient who presented after two craniotomies for a persistent brain abscess complicated by long-term chloramphenicol administration. Findings for this patient were consistent with many of the adverse drug effects associated with chloramphenicol, including elevated chloramphenicol serum concentrations, anemia, thrombocytopenia, reticulocytopenia, and severe metabolic acidosis. Rare manifestations of chloramphenicol toxicity that developed in this patient included neutropenia, visual field changes, and peripheral neuropathy. Chloramphenicol administration was discontinued, and hemodialysis was initiated for severe metabolic acidosis. The patient recovered with severe visual field deficits. Although chloramphenicol is rarely indicated, it remains an effective antibiotic. Healthcare providers should become familiar with the pharmacology, toxicology, and monitoring parameters for appropriate use of this antibiotic.
Hepatotoxicity After Continuous Amiodarone Infusion in a Postoperative Cardiac Infant
Authors: Kicker Jennifer S. , Haizlip Julie A. , Buck Marcia L.
Published: October 2012

A former 34-week-old female infant with Down syndrome underwent surgical correction of a congenital heart defect at 5 months of age. Her postoperative course was complicated by severe pulmonary hypertension and junctional ectopic tachycardia. Following treatment with amiodarone infusion, she developed laboratory indices of acute liver injury. At their peak, liver transaminase levels were 19 to 35 times greater than the upper limit of normal. Transaminitis was accompanied by coagulopathy, hyperammonemia, and high serum lactate and lipid levels. Hepatic laboratory abnormalities began to resolve within 48 hr of stopping amiodarone infusion. Heart rate control was achieved concurrently with discovery of laboratory test result abnormalities, and no further antiarrhythmic therapy was required. The intravenous formulation of amiodarone contains the diluent polysorbate 80, which may have hepatotoxic effects. Specifically, animal studies suggest that polysorbate 80 may destabilize cell membranes and predispose to fatty change within liver architecture. Polysorbate was implicated in infant fatalities from E-ferol use in the 1980s. This case illustrates a possible adverse event by the Naranjo probability scale. Given the extent of clinically apparent hepatic injury, this patient was not rechallenged with amiodarone during the remainder of her hospitalization. With amiodarone now used as first-line pharmacologic therapy for critical tachyarrhythmia in this population, the number of children exposed to this drug should be expected to increase. Laboratory indices of liver function should be evaluated at initiation of amiodarone therapy, as well as frequently throughout duration of therapy. Consideration should be given to polysorbate-free formulation of intravenous amiodarone for use in the cohort with congenital cardiac disease.
Happy end : l’héritage amérindien dans Rouge, mère et fils de Suzanne Jacob
Authors: Biron Michel
Published: October 2012

Le refus de l’héritage amérindien fait partie des « fictions dominantes » dénoncées par Suzanne Jacob dans son essai La bulle d’encre. Elle en fait le thème central de son roman Rouge, mère et fils (2001) dont cet article analyse la composition (autour de la couleur rouge) et les principaux personnages : la mère Delphine, le fils Luc, le père Félix de même qu’un personnage extravagant, appelé le Trickster, par qui la mère et le fils retrouveront en fin de roman le fil de leur histoire, irriguée par le sang amérindien qui coule dans leurs veines. L’article met l’accent sur le changement de registre qui apparaît dans le dernier chapitre du roman, lequel délaisse le ton ironique employé jusque-là au profit d’une prose poétique et solennelle. En s’emparant d’un héritage détourné (celui du métissage amérindien refoulé par le discours identitaire québécois), le roman se voit lui-même détourné par cet héritage, au nom d’une demande de sens venue de l’extérieur du roman.
Harmfulness Evaluation Method for On-Board Water Ballast Management
Authors: Kurtela Željko , Komadina Pavao
Published: October 2012

Having identified all the dominant factors and having puttogether a mosaic of all the factors resulting from a ship 's voyage,as well as a number of differently dimensioned criteria, theharmfulness evaluation method for water ballast managementon board has been elaborated. By careful analysis of the impactfactors to which status elements are adjoined, by the assignmentof harmfulness levels to the status elements, by determiningdifficulty factor values, by introduction of treatment methodsi.e. exchange of water ballast, certain characteristic managementscenarios according to ship type are developed. Cumulativescenarios provide insight into the total harmfulness ofwater ballast management. The introduction of a comprehensiveapproach results in the development of different scenariosapplicable to all ships. The established harmfulness evaluationmethod for water ballast management is applicable to all shiptypes, and it has been tested on various types of ships that weredischarging ballast in various ports worldwide.
Electromagnetic controllable surfaces based on trapped-mode effect
Authors: Dmitriev V. , Prosvirnin S. , Tuz V. R. , Kawakatsu M. N.
Published: October 2012

In this paper we present some recent results of our theoretical investigations of electromagnetically controllable surfaces. These surfaces are designed on the basis of periodic arrays made of metallic inclusions of special form which are placed on a thin substrate of active material (magnetized ferrite or optically active semiconductor). The main peculiarity of the studied structures is their capability to support the trapped-mode resonance which is a result of the antiphase current oscillations in the elements of a periodic cell. Several effects, namely: tuning the position of passband and the linear and nonlinear (bistable) transmission switching are considered when an external static magnetic field or optical excitation are applied. Our numerical calculations are fulfilled in both microwave and optical regions.
Surface Plasmon - Guided Mode strong coupling
Authors: Castanié A. , Felbacq D. , Guizal B.
Published: October 2012

It is shown that it is possible to realize strong coupling between a surface plasmon and a guided mode in a layered structure. The dispersion relation of such a structure is obtained through the S-matrix algorithm combined with the Cauchy integral technique that allows for rigorous computations of complex poles. The strong coupling is demonstrated by the presence of an anticrossing in the dispersion diagram and simultaneously by the presence of a crossing in the loss diagram. The temporal characteristics of the different modes and the decay of the losses in the propagation of the hybridized surface plasmons are studied.
Consumer Utility Function: Initial Findings Through Lagrange Optimization Method
Authors: Paurom Ferdinand C.
Published: October 2012

The main problem in utility theory or its variant theory of consumer choice is that consumer is assumed capable of rational choice; yet, such choice is incapable of translating itself into rational numbers. On this account the assumption of rational choice remains dubious. This paper utilized Lagrange optimization method to approximate consumer utility function measured in cardinal units. The utility function was derived from the US deflated annual per capita consumption of pork and beef (United States department of Agriculture, USDA, 1998). This paper demonstrates that when quantities of pork are consumed, given the price, in effect gives diminishing marginal levels of pork consumption in opposite monotonic direction with beef consumption. Changes in the level of consumption approximate cardinally the consumer utility function consistent with the properties of indifference curve and with the axioms of consumer rational choice. This paper has two objectives: 1) to provide further insights on the measurability of consumer utility, and 2) to provide basis for forecasting the demand for pork and beef. This paper concluded that Pork-beef substitution of US consumers is an exponential function which exhibits pattern of the textbook-defined indifference curve and has the features of negative slope, convexity and asymptote. The function is also consistent with the axioms of consumer rational choice.   Keywords - consumer utility function, lagrange optimization method
Status of Primary Education: A Case Study of The Dangs District in Gujarat
Authors: Rami Gaurang
Published: October 2012

Universal primary education is a constitutional directive. Article 45 of the Directive Principles of the constitution urges all state to provide ‘free and compulsory education for all children until they complete the age of fourteen years’ within a period of ten years from the commencement of the constitution. Right to education has been recognized as fundamental right in 83rd constitutional amendment, even then the goal of universal education for all has remained distant dream. The status of education is one of the key indicators of socioeconomic development and employment opportunities largely depend on the level of education. In this paper we have examined the status of primary education in the Dings district of Gujarat state. The availability of basic necessary infrastructural facilities in the primary schools of the Dangs districts is not satisfactory. The process of education and development does not seem to have benefited the disadvantaged tribal groups in the Dangs district as much. Attempts have been made by the government and different voluntary agencies to promote education among tribal groups. The efforts to enhance the tribal education did not achieve its objectives because in many of the cases the educational needs and problems of the tribal communities are not properly identified. Keywords - Literary, Enrollment, Dropout, The Dangs, Gujarat, India
Confucius on Virtues: Paradigm of Social and Moral Order
Authors: Babor Eddie R
Published: October 2012

This paper explores Confucius’ concept of virtues. This is achieved by analyzing his thoughts on Ren, Zhong, Shu, Yi, Li, and Xiao. The paper seeks to apply Confucius’s thoughts on these virtues as a paradigm for a transformed social and moral order. The paper argues that if confucius’ ideas on these virtues are applied, the world will be transformed into a more decent, just, and humane locus for all human beings to dwell. Ren, as human-heartedness, Zhong and Shu as the two ways through which Ren can be practiced, while Yi as rectitude or righteousness, with Li as propriety, and finally, with Xiao as devotion and respect to parents, there is no doubt that there will be no more chaos, disorder, conflict, and antagonism, but peace and harmony in the whole world.
Developing a GIS for Rural Villages in the Philippines
Authors: Tongco Alejandro F.
Published: October 2012

This paper is an introduction to applying geographic information systems (GIS) technology specifically to rural villages in the Philippines. GIS is a relatively new and valuable tool in decision making that is useful in managing organizations and applicable in a wide range of disciplines including agriculture, public health, natural resource management, and local governance. Rural village governance, although well-established, has been largely untouched by GIS technology. This paper lays out steps to develop a GIS that is uniquely villagebased and home-grown. The ultimate goal is to empower villagers to set the direction and implementation of their own village’s development efforts. The steps discuss how to build an inexpensive GIS for rural villages with the help of a GIS expert-coach. Village participation, interest of GIS technician-trainees, and village financial capability are some important considerations in village GIS capability building. A simple GIS for an actual village is also hypothetically illustrated.   Keywords - Geographic Information system, rural villages
Female Criminals of Pakistan: Personal and Socio-demographic Profiles
Authors: Baloch Gul Muhammad
Published: October 2012

Pakistan is the male-dominated society. In such a scenario of ‘subjugation’, we find females involved in crimes. This exploratory study was conducted in Women’s prisons of Sindh province of Pakistan. It was a ‘census’ population of 100 respondents. Findings showed inmates were involved in six types of crimes i.e. Drug Trafficking (26), Murder of Husband (25), Kidnapping (23), Murder (18), Robbery/Theft (5), Child Trafficking (2) and Extra-marital relationships (1). Marxist-Feminist criminologists mention poverty and patriarchal society as etiology of the causation of female crime; findings support this theory. Out of 100 respondents, 72 were illiterates; 76 belonged to very poor and poor families. Husbands of only 17 inmates had jobs, 5 were old/ill/begging, 11 were doing nothing/gambling, while remaining 57 were farmers / laborers. Only 5 inmates were treated normally while husbands of 36 inmates had bad and violent behavior. Husbands of 42 inmates were 10-20 years older than them. Thirty out of 100 women inmates had male co-accused; almost half of them were male family members.
Information System Development of Competence-Based Appraisal in Higher Education Institution
Authors: Nurhadi Mochamad , Suryani Tatik , Prawitowati Tjahjani , Lutfi Lutfi
Published: October 2012

The performance appraisal system is considered an important factor for managing human resources in higher education institutions (HEIs). More importantly, when Information System (IS) is utilized for assisting such efforts, it inevitably makes the HEIs more efficient and competitive. This research attempts to integrate performance appraisal using competence-based appraisal (CBA). From this system, the HEIs are supposed to able to manage all activities related to their human resources and carriers. The methodology implemented in this research is by making the software of CBA model (the concept) and then the try out was done to find out both the weaknesses and strengths of the software, and finally the improvement was conducted as well. In addition, the evaluation of these software covers the aspects of validity and reliability testing so that the software are really proved to be completely applicable. The results provide the HEIs with information about both the weaknesses and strengths and therefore the system was made perfect based on such findings. It can be concluded that using CBA in HEIs, all the activities related to human recourses in HEIs can be rated. Thus, this CBA system enables the HEIs to do their human resources appraisal more accurately. Keywords - CBA, software, performance appraisal system (PAS)
Managing Talent for Competitive Advantage: Perspective from Gulf Cooperation Council Nationals
Authors: Gernal Liza M. , Sergio Rommel P. , Rawahi Saud Mohammed Hamedal
Published: October 2012

In managing the new age, talent management serves as the bloodline of organizations to cope with the labor market and to compete globally. This study threshed out the lived experiences of respondents (n=4) who are Corporate Executive Officers (CEO) in multinational organizations within the Gulf Cooperation Council. Part of the selection criteria, all respondents are locals and within the age of 45 and above. The researchers employed the descriptive approach with case study as the method via in-depth personal interview. It was found out that many challenging workforce issues within GCC confront the organizations today including: low levels of employee engagement, selforganizing scheme, high turnover rates, managing diversity, succession planning programs, and leadership investment. To be competitive, specific interventions were also shared by the respondents.Keywords - Talent management, low levels of employee engagement, high turnover rates, managing diversity, and succession planning programs.
Mapping of Elementary Educational Infrastructure in India: A State and District Level Analysis
Authors: Kumar Vipan , Kumar Naresh , Narula Sapna
Published: October 2012

Education plays an important role in a country’s development process. Indian education system comprises the elementary, secondary and tertiary levels. Over two decades India registered a significant growth in the educational infrastructure at tertiary level of education but elementary and secondary levels of education are struggling with low accessibility of infrastructure and resources. This is affecting the quality of education particularly at elementary level of education which is responsible for growth in secondary and tertiary education. The assessment of infrastructure across the country is very difficult due to regional inequalities and economic diversities. This paper is an attempt to map accessibility of infrastructure at elementary level of education at district and state level in India. For mapping and analysis, advance computation techniques like GIS and contour mapping techniques are used. A novel technique and algorithm was developed to represent the data in various formats in the qualitative way; to the knowledge of the authors this novel representation of data is hitherto unreported in the open literature. Analysis confirms that there are regional inequalities in the accessibility of required infrastructure and in some states the situation is pathetic despite various government initiatives.   Keywords - Elementary education, GIS, Mapping, Contours
Teacher’s Efficacy as Predictor of Self- Efficacy Among Students In Pakistan
Authors: Nabeel Tanzila , Zafar Huma
Published: October 2012

The study examined the role of teachers’ self-efficacy as a predictor of general perceived self-efficacy among students. For this purpose, a sample of 300 teachers and 300 students was selected from different educational institutions of Pakistan. Teachers were categorized into two groups; experienced and inexperienced. To achieve the objectives of the study two instruments i.e.; Teachers’ self-efficacy Scale and General Self-efficacy Scale (GSES) were used. In addition short demographic sheets for the teachers and students were used indicating teachers’ institutional affiliation and experience, and students’ educational institutes, ages and gender. Part I of the study dealt with determining the psychometric properties of the scales and the pilot study and Part II consisted of the main study. Statistical analyses of the main study revealed a significant positive correlation between teachers’ self-efficacy and general self-efficacy among students. Experienced teachers showed more teachers’ self-efficacy as compared to inexperienced teachers. Overall mean scores of female students were comparatively higher on General self-efficacy scale as compared to the male students. Students belonging to the late adolescence showed more self-efficacy as compared to the students categorized as early adolescence group. Simple linear regression analyses suggested that teacher self-efficacy contribute positively to self-efficacy among students.   Keywords - Teachers’ self-efficacy, General perceived self-efficacy
The Connection between Moral Commitments and Psychological Health
Authors: Azadboni Ramezan Mahdavi
Published: October 2012

The significant role of moral values and moral commitments in human life is neglected neither by philosophers nor by psychologists. One of considerable points regarding the role and function of moral value concerns psychological function and achievement. This paper deals with the psychological role and function fulfilled by moral commitment. According to religious teachings psychological aspect of human life has connection with moral commitment. The writer attempts to explain how moral values and commitment could be related to psychological health. The discussion is confined to general understanding of moral values in all world religions but mostly the references are limited to Islamic teachings.   Keywords - moral, value, function, psychology
Philippine Journal Accreditation Service (JAS) of the Commission on Higher Education: Ensuring Quality in Higher Education Publication Towards Internationalization
Authors: Padua Roberto N.
Published: October 2012

The paper examines the Journal accreditation process adopted by the Philippine Commission on Higher Education andanalyses the results of the accreditation process for three years: 2009, 2010, and 2011. Results revealed that less than 10% of all journals submitted for accreditation through the CHED-JAS have marginally satisfied the criteria set by the review Board. The main observations made by the review Board on the journals which did not satisfy the accreditation criteria focused on the absence of a good refereeing system and the qualifications of the Editorial Boards.   Keywords - Journal Accreditation process, internationalization of research, research journals
Predictors of Teachers’ Reading Skills in a Rural School District in Northeastern Mindanao Philippines
Authors: Albarillo Loveleah B.
Published: October 2012

Reading is a problem for teachers in the Philippines. It becomes even more acute for teachers in rural areas. In Surigao del Sur (Northeastern Mindanao—Philippines), the problem is especially worrisome. I designed a study that determines the predictors of the reading skills of teachers in a rural school district. To analyze the data, I used the frequency weighted mean, Pearson Moment-Product Correlation Coefficient, and regression analysis. I also used a standardized reading test as the reading instrument. On top of that, I asked the teachers to build a personal profile with socio-demographic and pedagogical variables. I gathered the data through a questionnaire. The results confirm in Surigao del Sur what is known to be the state of reading habits of teachers in the Philippines. The quality of reading skills is low or poor. The teachers are not able to teach competently in language and reading. They have higher order skills in scanning and points of view. They have average levels of vocabulary. They use study aids infrequently. They have low levels of reading comprehension. Age is the most important predictor of reading skill. It tends to decline as teachers grow older. They read less the longer they stay in the service. It is specifically noticeable among teachers who do not exert the effort to deepen their professional studies. Teachers 40 and above need a special reading intervention. To prevent a decline in reading skill, all rural teachers ought to do graduate-level work.   Keywords - socio-demographic variables, pedagogical variables, reading skills of teachers
Spirituality and Work Stress of Teacher Education Institution Faculty in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines
Authors: Dela Peña III Salvador C.
Published: October 2012

Very little has been empirically explored on the association between spirituality and work stress in the academic setting; thus, this study involving fulltime education faculty of colleges in Cagayan de Oro City was conducted. Standardized tools were used to determine the levels of spirituality and work stress. An in-depth interview with the top and lowest ten on spirituality was conducted to further validate the findings. This study’s findings reveal that the faculty’s extent of work stress was low. As to spirituality, they considered themselves highly spiritual. Moreover, the study showed that age, gender, educational attainment, and length of teaching experience did not significantly influence the teachers’ level of work stress. However, only gender was found to have a significant influence on the faculty’s level of spirituality. Finally, no statistical evidence was found that the faculty’s level of spirituality had a significant effect on their level of work stress. However, results of the in-depth interview reveal the practical significance of spirituality in relation to work stress. Therefore, the findings offer insight into the limitation of empirical study to measure objectively the spiritual domain of man. Hence, the role of spirituality still cannot be dismissed despite the lack of statistical evidence. Keywords - spirituality, work stress
The Level of Disposition Toward Teaching of Second Year College Students School of Education Xavier University
Authors: Absin Saturnina Baylon , Tolod Lourdes Gonzales
Published: October 2012

This study determined the level of disposition toward teaching of the 139 second year college education students of Xavier University during SY 2010-2011. The factors considered in relation to disposition toward teaching were responsibility for learning, interpersonal skills and collaboration, professionalism, communication skills and higher level thinking skills. The students’ gender, Quality Point Index (QPI), and course were also considered. The study employed purposive non-probability sampling method and descriptive research design. Findings reveal that the students in general have not yet acquired the desired qualities expected of them as future teachers. They lack higher level thinking skills, sense of personal responsibility for learning new things, questioning skills, communication skills, and interpersonal skills. They lack motivation and the right disposition toward the teaching profession. It is highly recommended that an intervention on career guidance be given to these students to deepen their understanding of and appreciation for the teaching profession.
The Effect of Constructivist Teaching Approach on the Conceptual Understanding of Biology Students
Authors: Ronsairo Marlyn D.
Published: October 2012

This study determines the effect of constructivist-based teaching approach on the cognitive and affective levels of conceptual understanding of Marine Biology of BS Biology students. The study made use of the pre-test-posttest one-shot experimental design. The participants were selected using purposive sampling. Data and other information needed in this study were gathered mainly through conceptual understanding test, formal interviews and journals. And to treat these data, the mean scoring system and t-test for dependent samples were used. Results revealed that the extent of cognitive level of conceptual understanding in Marine Biology of the students based on their journals was observed to a very great extent. On the other hand, the extent of affective level of conceptual understanding of the students in Marine Biology as revealed in their journals was observed to a great extent. Moreover, the findings also showed that there is significant difference on the students’ level of conceptual understanding based on their mean scores in the test after using the constructivist-based teaching approach. Lastly, it is also found out that the students learned and appreciated Marine Biology through constructivist-based teaching approach based on the interviews conducted to them.   Keywords - conceptual understanding, constructivist-based teaching approach
Effectiveness of Constructivist Approach Experiments in Teaching Selected Physics Concepts
Authors: Tabago Lorelei C.
Published: October 2012

The study developed constructivist approach experiments to determine its effectiveness in teaching physics concepts. The quasi-experiment following a non-equivalent control group design was used. Two sections of 2nd year BSIT students of Isabela State University-Cauayan Campus were involved. The study administered pre-test and post-test. The scores in the achievement test and standardized attitude inventory test were compared and the significance of their difference was determined using the t-test. The control group and the experimental group were equal in terms of cognitive level in Physics. However, the students exposed to the constructivist approach of laboratory teaching had significantly higher post-test scores and higher mean gain scores than the students exposed to the traditional approach after the study was conducted. The experimental group developed a more positive attitude towards Physics than the control group. Moreover, there was a significant difference between the post achievement scores and post attitude scores of the students exposed to constructivist approachbased experiments and traditional experiments. The Constructivist Approach Experiments are effective in enhancing students’ achievement and in developing a more positive attitude towards the subject than the traditional approach.   Keywords - Constructivist Approach, Constructivist Approach-Based Experiment; Traditional Experiment, Attitude Towards Physics
Reflective Analysis on Facebook as Social Capital: Its Role in Transforming the Filipino College Students
Authors: Cadiao Leah V. , Alimen Rolando A.
Published: October 2012

The emergence of social network sites such as Facebook, Friendster, Myspace, Twitter, You Tube and the like are basic for nearly everybody. The researchers explored on the Facebook (FB) phenomenon as the latest trend among teenagers. The study determined the transformation brought about by Facebook phenomenon as analyzed in the different reflections, testimonies, and insights given specifically by the Filipino college students. The respondents of the study were 250 college students from the state college of Occidental Mindoro and private maritime university of Iloilo City who were purposively selected on the basis of their exposure to FB. The researchers utilized both quantitative and qualitative modes of data collection. Results of the study showed that the college students have a high level of perception on Facebook. Their level of perception differs significantly when they are classified according to Type of School, Gender and Year Level. In totality, FB transformed the Filipino youth socially, emotionally, mentally and technologically. Their exposure to FB brings them to the world of internet where communication is essential, entice them to get more friends, allow them to express their ideas, feelings, and sentiments freely. These activities using Internet lead them to become technologically attuned individuals.
The Extent of Academic Freedom in Philippine Education
Authors: Aquino Ricmar P.
Published: October 2012

This qualitative research was an attempt to study the extent of applicability of academic freedom in Philippine education in terms of its concept and development. The term has been defined as the freedom of the teacher or research worker in higher institutions of learning to investigate and discuss the problems of his science and to express his conclusions through publication or in the instructions of the students. Political or ecclesiastical authorities or administrative officials of the institution are barred from interfering with this right of the teacher unless the same is contrary to professional ethics. Academic freedom is exclusively the domain of academic community. Academic freedom may be viewed from two standpoints such as the point of view of the educational institution and the point of view of the members of the academe. The first point of view speaks of the freedom of the institution to determine the qualification of its teachers, the course of study and admission policies. From the standpoint of the members of the academe, academic freedom is the freedom of the teacher or research workers in institutions of higher learning to investigate and discuss the problems of his science and to express his conclusions either through publications or in instructions of the students, without interference from political or ecclesiastical authority, or from administrative officials of the institution.
The Pikit Agricultural Colony: A Study of the First and Second Generation Descendants of the Cebuano Colonos Within a Century (1913-2011)
Authors: Carbon Hector P. , Apostol Garry O.
Published: October 2012

This is a study on the first and second generation offsprings of the Cebuano colonos of Pikit Agricultural colony which was established in 1913. The study evaluated the extent Pikit Agricultural Colony fulfilled its mandate. The study used the descriptive design. Results showed that the colony as an experiment on multiethnic co-existence is a failure. There were very few Muslims and indigenous colonists among Christian colonos in the four villages originally assigned for colonization. In most colono villages, Christian inhabitants prefer to live among themselves than allow other groups to settle in their villages. Pikit did not develop into an agricultural base for production of basic foodstuff for the nation. Internecine strife prevented it from progressing into what it was planned to be. The original villages of colonos and their descendants have increased in population over a ninety year period except village Calawag. Children of colonos in this villages migrated to other places even outside of the country. The study concluded that the descendants of colonos consider the venture of their parents and grandparents as success. The government planners and some economic analysts consider it a failure. The agricultural colonization in Pikit was a catalyst for the growth and development of Cotabato in particular, and of Mindanao in general.
Women’s Political Participation in the Province of Batangas
Authors: Tamayo Ma. Rosario B.
Published: October 2012

The study focused on women’s participation in electoral politics in the province of Batangas, their priority programs, the factors that impede their participation and the platform for action that Lyceum of the Philippines University-Batangas can propose to help increase women’s political participation in the province. Descriptive-correlational method was employed utilizing convenient sampling. Survey questionnaire and interview was utilized in data gathering. Respondents of the study are women politicians who won in the 2007 local election. Findings revealed that majority of women politician’s priority is health. They were recruited by political parties and their political experience is by being councilors in their respective areas. They believe that support of the community, family and personality are the factors for winning. Lack of financial resources and the type of electoral system as well as the lack of quota reservations are the socio-economic factors that impede women’s participation. On the other hand, the cultural and institutional factors include lack of party support including money and other resources and the lack of coordination and support from women’s organization and other NGO’s, how women are portrayed in media is believe to be the ideological and psychological factors that impede women’s participation in politics.   Keywords - feminism, politics, election
Teachers’ Life After School
Authors: Joson Ma. Mercedes A.
Published: October 2012

What are our teachers’ religious, economic, social and professional practices and conditions? Do these practices and conditions reflect a work-life balance? Are our teachers still able to rest and enjoy life after school? These are the questions posed by the study, Teachers’ Life after School. Respondents of this undertaking were 67 teachers from the Integrated School to College. It was a descriptive research utilizing frequency and percentage. Results showed that our teachers are generally active and practicing Catholics. Socially, they are active in using the social network in communicating with their students. Most of their evenings and week-ends are spent preparing work related materials. Only 7% indicated that they are able to rest during evenings. Economically majority aspires to save but is not in the position to do so at present while professionally, most teachers aspire to earn their doctoral degree. Though a related study in 2009 concluded that generally, LCC teachers have a high state of wellness; this current research concluded that most teachers do work related tasks during evenings and week-ends. Hence, there are work areas that need to be improved to give teachers more time to relax with their families and enjoy life.
Organizational Spirituality and People Management Practices of Selected Banks in Batangas City: Basis of Proposed Measures Towards Management Effectiveness
Authors: Javier Esmenia R.
Published: October 2012

This study investigated the level of organizational spirituality and people management practices in selected banks in Batangas City. It also looked into the significant differences between the responses of managers and their subordinates on the level of organizational spirituality and people management practices. This paper also investigated the extent of association between the constructs organizational spirituality and people management practices. The study used a self – structured questionnaire that focused on the ten best people management practices. It also used the Organizational Spirituality Assessment (Sanders, 2003) to describe the level of organizational spirituality of managers in selected banks. Results revealed that there are excellent practices of organizational spirituality among the bank managers and their subordinates reflecting a leadership style that enhances positive behavior of people towards business goals, and in the process, they earn the trust and respect of their customers. Bank managers have very good to excellent implementation of best practices on people management that develop the people’s skills, knowledge and attributes to improve the performance of their organizations. Another finding of this study is that the managers’ implementation of the best practices on people management is not in any way influenced by their level of spirituality.   Keywords - Organization, Spirituality, people management, management effectiveness, assessment
Internal Audit in the Federal Government Organizations of Malaysia: The Good, The Bad and The Very Ugly?
Authors: Ali Azham Md. , Saidin Siti Zabedah , Sahdan Mohd. Hadafi , Rasit Mohd. Hadzrami Harun , Rahim Mohd Syahrir , Gloeck J Dieter
Published: October 2012

Theoretically, the internal audit function exists to help members of an organization to improve the performance of their activities. But the findings from in-depth interviews conducted in the middle of 2004 with internal auditors from a total of 40 federal government ministries, departments and agencies in Malaysia revealed a number of serious shortcomings that far outweigh the few virtues identified during these interviews. These shortcomings are that many internal audit units face staff shortages, and staff lacking in internal audit competence. In addition, a majority of the audit units, most of which operate in outdated audit modes, have failed to get the right level of support and assistance from the Treasury and other parties. Worse, their effectiveness and efficiency are further threatened by the high-handed actions of the National Audit Department which shifts its cadre staff in and out of the internal audit units at will. Despite all these problems, these internal auditors are quite optimistic about the future of internal audit in Malaysia. But, according to the politics of accountability theory and the fact that Malaysian social context is replete with cases of the lack of transparency and public accountability from its major actors, the internal audit’s future does appear bleak. Keywords - internal audit, federal government organizations, indepth interviews, Malaysia
Silver Pompano as a Mariculture Project of JBLFMU-Molo and Views Towards Sustainable Environment on Global Warming Mitigation
Authors: Alimen Rolando A. , Pador Ralph L. , Ortizo Cicero D. , Aspiracion John G.
Published: October 2012

The study determined the perceptions of JBLFMU-Molo faculty and students and their views on Silver Pompano as a mariculture study. Quantitative method of research was employed through the use of the data-gathering instruments and interview. Respondents of the study were the 75 marine instructors and students at the maritime university in the Philippines. Descriptive statistics used were frequency, percentage, and rank. Results revealed that the Silver Pompano (Trachinotus blochii) mariculture is an attempt to take part in the environment and global warming mitigation issues. Most of the respondents observed that the global warming/extreme heat is the major problem that confronts the environment today. The respondents’ primary source of information regarding global warming mitigation was the news from the media. They also perceived that the major cause of global warming problems was due to man’s act of negligence. Majority of the respondents in the study were involved in environmental-friendly global warming activities. The study concluded that an effort to take part in the activities towards sustainableenvironmental global warming initiatives lead to a willingness to take roles in the planning stage of any program.   Keywords - mariculture project, Siliver Pompano, global warming, maritime university