bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Next-Generation Sequencing in Oncology: Genetic Diagnosis, Risk Prediction and Cancer Classification
Authors: Kamps Rick , Brandão Rita , Bosch Bianca , Paulussen Aimee , Xanthoulea Sofia , Blok Marinus , Romano Andrea
Published: January 2017

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology has expanded in the last decades with significant improvements in the reliability, sequencing chemistry, pipeline analyses, data interpretation and costs. Such advances make the use of NGS feasible in clinical practice today. This review describes the recent technological developments in NGS applied to the field of oncology. A number of clinical applications are reviewed, i.e., mutation detection in inherited cancer syndromes based on DNA-sequencing, detection of spliceogenic variants based on RNA-sequencing, DNA-sequencing to identify risk modifiers and application for pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, cancer somatic mutation analysis, pharmacogenetics and liquid biopsy. Conclusive remarks, clinical limitations, implications and ethical considerations that relate to the different applications are provided.
Ultrafast Laser Pulses for Structuring Materials at Micro/Nano Scale: From Waveguides to Superhydrophobic Surfaces
Authors: Correa Daniel , Almeida Juliana , Almeida Gustavo , Cardoso Marcos , De Boni Leonardo , Mendonça Cleber
Published: January 2017

The current demand for fabricating optical and photonic devices displaying high performance, using low-cost and time-saving methods, prompts femtosecond (fs)-laser processing as a promising methodology. High and low repetition femtosecond lasers enable surface and/or bulk modification of distinct materials, which can be used for applications ranging from optical waveguides to superhydrophobic surfaces. Herein, some fundamental aspects of fs-laser processing of materials, as well as the basics of their most common experimental apparatuses, are introduced. A survey of results on polymer fs-laser processing, resulting in 3D waveguides, electroluminescent structures and active hybrid-microstructures for luminescence or biological microenvironments is presented. Similarly, results of fs-laser processing on glasses, gold and silicon to produce waveguides containing metallic nanoparticles, analytical chemical sensors and surface with modified features, respectively, are also described. The complexity of fs-laser micromachining involves precise control of material properties, pushing ultrafast laser processing as an advanced technique for micro/nano devices.
Origin of X-Ray and Gamma-Ray Emission from the Galactic Central Region
Authors: Chernyshov D. O. , Cheng K.-S. , Dogiel V. A. , Ko C. M.
Published: January 2017

We study a possible connection between different non-thermal emissions from the inner few parsecs of the Galaxy. We analyze the origin of the gamma-ray source 2FGL J1745.6−2858 (or 3FGL J1745.6−2859c) in the Galactic Center (GC) and the diffuse hard X-ray component recently found by the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array, as well as the radio emission and processes of hydrogen ionization from this area. We assume that a source in the GC injected energetic particles with power-law spectrum into the surrounding medium in the past or continues to inject until now. The energetic particles may be protons, electrons, or a combination of both. These particles diffuse to the surrounding medium and interact with gas, magnetic field, and background photons to produce non-thermal emissions. We study the spectral and spatial features of the hard X-ray emission and gamma-ray emission by the particles from the central source. Our goal is to examine whether the hard X-ray and gamma-ray emissions have a common origin. Our estimations show that, in the case of pure hadronic models, the expected flux of hard X-ray emission is too low. Despite the fact that protons can produce a non-zero contribution in gamma-ray emission, it is unlikely that they and their secondary electrons can make a significant contribution in hard X-ray flux. In the case of pure leptonic models, it is possible to reproduce both X-ray and gamma-ray emissions for both transient and continuous supply models. However, in the case of the continuous supply model, the ionization rate of molecular hydrogen may significantly exceed the observed value.
Factors Influencing Nursing Student Self-Assessment in Relation to Instructor Assessment
Authors: Hadid Salam
Published: January 2017

Background:

Self-assessment in nursing education is a ubiquitous tool for developing independent learners and critical thinkers. However, self-assessment may be influenced by both demographic and perceptual factors, making it far more complex than students or instructors realize.

Method:

A demographically heterogeneous group of nursing students (
N
= 322) was asked to evaluate their performance of a standard clinical procedure—the insertion of a needle into a peripheral vein of an arm simulator; their assessments were compared with those of an instructor.

Results:

Self-assessment is influenced by gender, age, and faith. When student and instructor assessments were compared, a mismatch was found for gender and faith. In addition, a significant positive correlation was found between evaluation mismatch and self-efficacy.

Conclusion:

Results of self-assessment, commonly considered an effective tool for teaching skills in general, and clinical work in particular may be skewed by both demographic and perceptual factors. [
J Nurs Educ.
2017;56(2):70–76.]
Online Course Design for Creativity and Innovative Skills in Virtual Cultural ASEAN Community: From Research to Empirical Practice
Authors: Songkram Noawanit
Published: January 2017

The first component of learning skills and innovation in the 21st century is creativity and innovative skills. Methods supporting the development of both skills need to be created as a long-term plan and can bring out the benefit. The current education emphasizes on creating changes. To create changes, it is necessary to integrate modern teaching management with principles and theories of learning. The research on Virtual Learning Environment to Enhance 21st Century Skills in Creativity and Innovation of Higher Education Learners in ASEAN Cultural Community can be used to analyze about online learning using modern technology together with learning principles and theories to promote creativity and innovative skills of learners in the 21stcentury. Learning activities were developed to be interesting and challenging. Learners can access to learning sources easily and effectively. Activities were provided on Virtual Learning Environments (VLE) which can enhance students’ learning and experience. Learning was not limited only to a classroom. It was open learning which allowed students to exchange information with instructors, foreign students, foreign friends, and local and international experts without the limit of time and place. Research tools included teaching plan emphasizing of creativity and innovative skills, the test of creativity and innovative skills, and a questionnaire for students. Data was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The results showed that scores of creativity and innovative skills of a sample after studying were higher than that before studying with statistical significance at .05. The course was designed based on 7 steps of learning process: 1. Preparation 2. Identifying a topic or issue to be studied 3. Brainstorm 4. Creating innovation 5. Testing 6. Evaluation and 7. Presentation.
Application of Multimedia Technology in Vocabulary Learning for Engineering Students
Authors: Shi Xue
Published: January 2017

The study of vocabulary is essential in learning a second language. The traditional way of foreign language learning only allows students to learn what the teacher chooses to teach. Knowledge is force-fed by the teacher to the students, but this way cannot meet the needs of the students and society. The development of multimedia technology meets the demands for new ways of teaching language. The purpose of this study is to test whether it is effective to use computer-assisted instruction (CAI) in individualized learning and whether multimedia CAI techniques can improve vocabulary learning and memory. According to analysis of the experimental data, CAI-supported vocabulary learning is more effective than traditional methods. The results show that, through CAI, knowledge can be learned faster and retained longer in the students’ memory.
Performance Evaluation of an IEEE 802.15.4 Wireless Sensor Network on a Coastal Environment
Authors: Flores-Cortés Carlos , Buenrostro-Mariscal Raymundo , Gurrero-Ibañez Antonio , Estrada-González Fermín , Sandoval-Orozco Jesus
Published: January 2017

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) have an enormous potential for investigating oceanographic problems such as the impact of industrial, touristic and commercial activities in coastal areas, among others. However, ocean waves, fog, humidity and other environmental conditions make difficult communication between nodes. This paper presents an evaluation on-site of the performance of an IEEE 802.15.4 WSN. In particular, received signal strength indication, throughput, round trip delay time and the rate of efficiency are evaluated.  Different settings were tested and results shown which settings performed better on these environments.
The Management Training and Development Programme Requirements of TVET School Administrators of Brunei Darussalam
Authors: Gapultos Jr. Marcelino C.
Published: January 2017

This chapter presented the study of management training and professional development needs of TVET school administrators of Brunei Darussalam in five specific areas of management as pre-requisite and reinforcement to the institution's transformation process and change management. The five specific areas of management covered in this chapter were: (1) Marketing Research, (2) Organizational Behavior, (3) Quality Assurance and Management, (4) Supervisory Leadership, and (5) Training and Development. These delimited management areas were specifically pin-pointed as they are relevant managerial skills deemed significant in the operation of a new and revitalized organization. Appropriate training and development programmes which when gradually delivered, fully actualized, and put into practice will equip the TVET school administrators with additional insights on their managerial capabilities that will give more meaning and encouragement in the discharge of their duties.
A Study of the Problems Faced by Industrial Training Institutes (ITI) in India as Perceived by Different Stakeholders
Authors: Ajithkumar Usha
Published: January 2017

The study focused on the problems faced by students pursuing ITI and the views of school students about ITI. Data was collected by the researcher through questionnaire distributed to students and in-depth interview with the principals of ITI. The themes that emerged from the data were General information about the student, Information about his family, Information about ITI education, Administration and organization, Possibilities and equipments, Teacher's capacity, Curriculum, and Community's perception. The findings highlight lack of infrastructure, inadequate teacher capacity, lack of updated curriculum, lack of awareness about ITI among students from formal schooling. On the basis of the findings the study recommended that the Government needed – Curriculum Enhancement Policies, Increasing Training Capacity, Program Evaluation, and Apprentice Programs; Infrastructure Improvement, Personnel, and Personal and Professional Development.
Analysis of China's Regional Energy Utilization and Environment Protection Efficiency Based on the DEA-SBM Model
Authors: Xi Pingfang , Zhu Qingyuan
Published: January 2017

Energy saving and emission reduction are increasingly important. This paper studies a two-stage network based on the DEA-SBM model to study the two aspects. This study evaluates their efficiency, including benchmarks for improvement, of 27 regions in China from 2009 to 2013. First, the efficiency of each DMU in each stage can be obtained by the proposed model. Second, by combining the two stages, the integrated efficiency of each region can be calculated. The regions are also grouped geographically. The empirical results show that: (i)Beijing and Tianjin are the best in terms of energy system, while Gansu and Ningxia perform best in terms of environment system. (ii)From the perspective of geographical area in China, the eastern area are the best for stage one, while the western area is the best for stage two. (iii)In terms of integrated efficiency, the western area performs worst.
Using Social Tags and User Rating Patterns for Collaborative Filtering
Authors: Kim Iljoo , Gupta Vipul
Published: January 2017

The overwhelming supply of online information on the Web makes finding better ways to separate important information from the noisy data ever more important. Recommender systems may help users deal with the information overloading issue, yet their performance appears to have stalled in currently available approaches. In this study, the authors propose and examine a novel user profiling approach that uses collaborative tagging information to enhance recommendation performance. They evaluate the proposed hybrid approach, illustrated in the context of movie recommendation. The authors also empirically evaluate various existing recommendation approaches (in comparison with the newly proposed approach) using sensitivity analyses to investigate the potential use of varied user rating or tagging patterns to improve recommendations accuracy. The results don't just indicate the effective and competitive performance of the suggested approach, but they also suggest important implications and directions for further research, including the potential associated with applying multiple recommendation approaches within a single system based on the different rating or tagging patterns of the user.
Moving Beyond Traditional Decision Support Systems
Authors: Azaiez Noura , Akaichi Jalel , Hsu Jeffrey
Published: January 2017

Integrating the concept of mobility into the professional and organizational realm offers the possibility of reducing geographical disparities related to organization services. The advances made in technology, geographic information systems and pervasive systems equipped with global positioning (GPS) technologies have been able to bring about an evolution from classic data approaches towards the modeling of trajectory data resulting from moving activities of moving objects. As such, trajectory data needs first to be loaded into a Data Warehouse for analysis purposes. However, the traditional approaches used are poorly suited to handle spatio-temporal data features and also the decision making tasks related to mobility issues. Because of this mismatch, the authors propose to move beyond traditional approaches and propose a repository that is able to analyse trajectories of moving objects. Improving decision making and extracting pertinent knowledge with reduced costs and time expended are the main goals of this revised analysis approach. Thus, the authors propose an approach in which they employ the Bottom-up approach to modeling a Decision Support System which is designed to support Trajectory Data. As an example to illustrate this approach, the authors use a creamery and dairy milk mobile cistern application to demonstrate the effectiveness of their approach.
Social Media Driven Management Education
Authors: Hall Jr. Owen P.
Published: January 2017

Business schools are under growing pressure to engage in significant programmatic reforms in light of the business community's call for web-savvy, problem-solving graduates. Even AACSB has gotten into the reformation act by recommending the adoption of a comprehensive collaboration learning strategy. To meet these and related challenges, many schools of business are turning to social media to provide learning opportunities at a time and place that is convenient to the student. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the growing possibilities for using social media to enhance learning outcomes and to outline strategies for implementing this revolutionary process throughout the management education community of practice.
Current Work in the Human-Machine Interface for Ergonomic Intervention with Exoskeletons
Authors: Schnieders Thomas Michael , Stone Richard T.
Published: January 2017

This literature review of exoskeleton design provides a brief history of exoskeleton development, discusses current research of exoskeletons with respect to the innate human-machine interface, and the incorporation of exoskeletons for ergonomic intervention, and offers a review of needed future work. Development of assistive exoskeletons began in the 1960's but older designs lacked design for human factors and ergonomics and had low power energy density and power to weight ratios. Advancements in technology have spurred a broad spectrum of research aimed at enhancing human performance and assisting in rehabilitation. The review underwent a holistic and extensive search and provides a reflective snapshot of the state of the art in exoskeleton design as it pertains to the incorporation of exoskeletons for ergonomic intervention. Some of the remaining challenges include improving the energy density of exoskeleton power supplies, improving the power to weight ratio of actuation devices, improving the mechanical human-machine interface, and dealing with variability between users.
Clustering Algorithm in Possibilistic Exponential Fuzzy C-Mean Segmenting Medical Images
Authors: Chowdhary Chiranji Lal , Acharjya D.P.
Published: January 2017

Different fuzzy segmentation methods were used in medical imaging from last two decades for obtaining better accuracy in various approaches like detecting tumours etc. Well-known fuzzy segmentations like fuzzy c-means (FCM) assign data to every cluster but that is not realistic in few circumstances. Our paper proposes a novel possibilistic exponential fuzzy c-means (PEFCM) clustering algorithm for segmenting medical images. This new clustering algorithm technology can maintain the advantages of a possibilistic fuzzy c-means (PFCM) and exponential fuzzy c-mean (EFCM) clustering algorithms to maximize benefits and reduce noise/outlier influences. In our proposed hybrid possibilistic exponential fuzzy c-mean segmentation approach, exponential FCM intention functions are recalculated and that select data into the clusters. Traditional FCM clustering process cannot handle noise and outliers so we require being added in clusters due to the reasons of common probabilistic constraints which give the total of membership’s degree in every cluster to be 1. We revise possibilistic exponential fuzzy clustering (PEFCM) which hybridize possibilistic method over exponential fuzzy c-mean segmentation and this proposed idea partition the data filters noisy data or detects them as outliers. Our result analysis by PEFCM segmentation attains an average accuracy of 97.4% compared with existing algorithms. It was concluded that the possibilistic exponential fuzzy c-means segmentation algorithm endorsed for additional efficient for accurate detection of breast tumours to assist for the early detection.
An Interactive Macrophage Signal Transduction Map Facilitates Comparative Analyses of High-Throughput Data
Authors: Wentker Pia , Eberhardt Martin , Dreyer Florian S. , Bertrams Wilhelm , Cantone Martina , Griss Kathrin , Schmeck Bernd , Vera Julio
Published: January 2017

Macrophages (Mϕs) are key players in the coordination of the lifesaving or detrimental immune response against infections. The mechanistic understanding of the functional modulation of Mϕs by pathogens and pharmaceutical interventions at the signal transduction level is still far from complete. The complexity of pathways and their cross-talk benefits from holistic computational approaches. In the present study, we reconstructed a comprehensive, validated, and annotated map of signal transduction pathways in inflammatory Mϕs based on the current literature. In a second step, we selectively expanded this curated map with database knowledge. We provide both versions to the scientific community via a Web platform that is designed to facilitate exploration and analysis of high-throughput data. The platform comes preloaded with logarithmic fold changes from 44 data sets on Mϕ stimulation. We exploited three of these data sets—human primary Mϕs infected with the common lung pathogens Streptococcus pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila, or Mycobacterium tuberculosis—in a case study to show how our map can be customized with expression data to pinpoint regulated subnetworks and druggable molecules. From the three infection scenarios, we extracted a regulatory core of 41 factors, including TNF, CCL5, CXCL10, IL-18, and IL-12 p40, and identified 140 drugs targeting 16 of them. Our approach promotes a comprehensive systems biology strategy for the exploitation of high-throughput data in the context of Mϕ signal transduction. In conclusion, we provide a set of tools to help scientists unravel details of Mϕ signaling. The interactive version of our Mϕ signal transduction map is accessible online at https://vcells.net/macrophage.
STAT3 Activation Impairs the Stability of Th9 Cells
Authors: Ulrich Benjamin J. , Verdan Felipe Fortino , McKenzie Andrew N. J. , Kaplan Mark H. , Olson Matthew R.
Published: January 2017

Th9 cells regulate multiple immune responses, including immunity to pathogens and tumors, allergic inflammation, and autoimmunity. Despite ongoing research into Th9 development and function, little is known about the stability of the Th9 phenotype. In this study, we demonstrate that IL-9 production is progressively lost in Th9 cultures during several rounds of differentiation. The loss of IL-9 is not due to an outgrowth of cells that do not secrete IL-9, as purified IL-9 secretors demonstrate the same loss of IL-9 in subsequent rounds of differentiation. The loss of IL-9 production correlates with increases in phospho-STAT3 levels within the cell, as well as the production of IL-10. STAT3-deficient Th9 cells have increased IL-9 production that is maintained for longer in culture than IL-9 in control cultures. IL-10 is responsible for STAT3 activation during the first round of differentiation, and it contributes to instability in subsequent rounds of culture. Taken together, our results indicate that environmental cues dictate the instability of the Th9 phenotype, and they suggest approaches to enhance Th9 activity in beneficial immune responses.
REVIEW AND RECOMMENDATIONS ON MANAGEMENT OF ADULT FEMALE THALASSEMIA PATIEΝTS WITH HYPOGONADISM BASED ON LITERATURE REVIEW AND EXPERIENCE OF ICET-A NETWORK SPECIALISTS
Authors: De Sanctis Vincenzo
Published: January 2017

Background: Multi-transfused thalassemia major (TM) patients frequently develop severe endocrine complications, mainly due to iron overload, anemia and chronic liver disease, which require prompt diagnosis, treatment and follow-up by specialists.The most common endocrine complication documented is hypogonadotropic hypogonadism which increases with age and associated comorbidities. It is thus important for physicians to have a clear understanding of the pathophysiology and management of this disorder. Also to be aware of the side effects, contraindications and monitoring of sex steroid therapy. In this paper practical ICET-A recommendations for the management of hypogonadism in adult females with TM are addressed.Methods: In March 2015, the Coordinator of the International Network of Clinicians for Endocrinopathies in Thalassemia and Adolescent Medicine (ICET-A) conducted a two-step survey to assess the attitudes and practices of doctors in the ICET-A network taking care of adult female TM patients with hypogonadism. They were  clinically characterized  by the absence of pubertal development, or discontinuation or regression of the maturation of secondary sex characteristics, and biochemically  by persistent low FSH, LH and estradiol levels. Recently a supplementary survey on adult female hypogonadism in TM was undertaken within  the ICET-A network.Results: The completed questionnaires were returned by 16 of 27 specialists (59.2%) following 590 female TM patients over the age of 18 years; 315 patients (53.3%) had hypogonadism and only 245 (74.6%) were on hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Contraceptive oral pills (COC) were the first treatment choice in 11 centres (68.7%). A wide range of COCs were used with different progestin contents. In general, the patients’ compliance to treatment was reported as good in 81.2 % of centres. The frequency of required tests for follow-up HRT, in addition to the regular check-up for thalassemia, was variable in the participating centres.Conclusions: Doctors taking care of TM patients should have sound knowledge of the pathophysiology of hypogonadism in adult females with TM. They should know the potential effects of HRT including advantages and disadvantages of estrogen and progestins. Moreover, they should keep in consideration  the emotional needs of these patients dreaming to attain a full pubertal development.Key words: Thalassemia, hypogonadism, hormone replacement therapy, benefits and disadvantages
The neuromyelitis optica presentation and the aquaporin-4 antibody in HIV-seropositive and seronegative patients in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Bhigjee Ahmed I. , Moodley Anandan A. , Roos Izanne , Wells Cait-Lynn , Ramdial Pratistadevi , Esser Monika
Published: January 2017

Background: The association of the anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP-4) water channel antibody with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) syndrome has been described from various parts of the world. There has been no large study describing this association from southern Africa, an HIV endemic area. HIV patients often present with visual disturbance or features of a myelopathy but seldom both either simultaneously or consecutively. We report our experience of NMO in the era of AQP-4 testing in HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients seen in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.Methods: A retrospective chart review was undertaken of NMO cases seen from January 2005 to April 2016 in two neurology units serving a population of 7.1 million adults. The clinical, radiological and relevant laboratory data were extracted from the files and analysed.Results: There were 12 HIV-positive patients (mean age 33 years), 9 (75%) were women and all 12 were black patients. Of the 17 HIV-negative patients (mean age 32 years), 15 (88%) were women and 10 (59%) were black people. The clinical features in the two groups ranged from isolated optic neuritis, isolated longitudinally extensive myelitis or combinations. Recurrent attacks were noted in six HIV-positive patients and six HIV-negative patients. The AQP-4 antibody was positive in 4/10 (40%) HIV-positive patients and 11/13 (85%) HIV-negative patients. The radiological changes ranged from longitudinal hyperintense spinal cord lesions and long segment enhancing lesions of the optic nerves. Three patients, all HIV-positive, had tumefactive lesions with incomplete ring enhancement.Conclusion: This study confirms the presence of AQP-4-positive NMO in southern Africa in both HIV-positive and HIV-negative patients. The simultaneous or consecutive occurrence of optic neuritis and myelitis in an HIV-positive patient should alert the clinician to test for the AQP-4 antibody. It is important to recognise this clinical syndrome as specific therapy is available. We further postulate that HIV itself may act as a trigger for an autoimmune process.
Impoverishing and dehumanising violence against women: An opportunity for service by churches in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Tenai Noah K.
Published: January 2017

An ongoing armed conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continues to impoverish and dehumanise women. Sexual violence meted on women has negative consequences that affect whole communities. Churches nationally and in the region have not done enough to respond to the challenge of armed conflict in general and the nefariousness of sexual violence towards women in particular. By utilising the sustainable livelihoods framework, churches in the region can be re-positioned for a constructive advocacy response to armed conflict(s) and sexual violence(s), particularly in solidarity with the women.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This study is made feasible through extensive intradisciplinary and interdisciplinary research. The subject matter demands on the investigator the necessity to make use of the knowledge from across the socio-scientific spectrum to understand the ongoing conflict and its impact on the local people. The study entrenches an advocacy role on regional churches as a means to lend a voice to the vulnerable women, who are impoverished and dehumanised by and within the context of an armed conflict.
Большие подмножества с малыми границами в графе с вершинно-транзитивной группой автоморфизмов
Authors: Seifter Nortbert , Trofimov Vladimir Ivanovich
Published: January 2017

Теорию концов конечно порожденных групп $G$ и связных локально конечных графов $\Gamma$ с вершинно-транзитивными группами автоморфизмов можно интерпретировать как теорию булевых алгебр подмножеств группы $G$ или множества вершин графа $\Gamma$ с конечными границами (в локально конечном графе Кэли группы $G$ или в графе $\Gamma$ соответственно), рассматриваемых с точностью до конечных подмножеств. В настоящей статье развивается более общая теория, в которой бесконечные подмножества с конечными границами заменяются определенными "большими" подмножествами с "малыми" границами.
Библиография: 7 наименований.
О множествах с не более чем двузначной метрической проекцией на нормированной плоскости
Authors: Flerov Aleksandr Alekseevich
Published: January 2017

В работе исследуются множества с не более чем двузначной
метрической проекцией в двумерных банаховых пространствах.
Доказано, что двумерное банахово пространство является
гладким тогда и только тогда, когда всякая точка выпуклой
оболочки произвольного замкнутого множества с не более чем
двузначной метрической проекцией лежит на отрезке с концами
в этом множестве.
Библиография: 14 названий.
Инвариантность обобщенного осциллятора относительно линейного преобразования соответствующей системы ортогональных полиномов
Authors: Borzov Vadim Vasiljevich , Damaskinsky Eugeniy Viktorovich
Published: January 2017

Рассматриваются семейства многочленов $\mathbb P=\{P_n(x)\}_{n=0}^\infty$ и $\mathbb Q=\{Q_n(x)\}_{n=0}^\infty$, ортогональных на вещественной прямой относительно вероятностных мер $\mu$ и $\nu$ соответственно. Предполагается, что многочлены $\{Q_n(x)\}_{n=0}^\infty$ и $\{P_n(x)\}_{n=0}^\infty$ связаны линейным соотношением. В случае $k=2$ описаны все пары ($\mathbb P$, $\mathbb Q$), для которых совпадают алгебры $\mathfrak A_P$ и $\mathfrak A_Q$ обобщенных осцилляторов, порождаемые $\{Q_n(x)\}_{n=0}^\infty$ и $\{P_n(x)\}_{n=0}^\infty$. Построены алгебры обобщенных осцилляторов, соответствующие парам ($\mathbb P$, $\mathbb Q$) для произвольного $k\geq 1$.
Outbreak Investigation of Plasmodium vivax Malaria in a Region of Guatemala Targeted for Malaria Elimination
Authors: Cohen Robert , Cardona Joel Sarceño , Navarro Eliana Solares , Padilla Norma , Reyes Lisette , Villar Rodrigo Javier Pinto , Masuoka Penny , Bernart Chris , Peruski Leonard F. , Bryan Joe P.
Published: January 2017

The Department of Santa Rosa, Guatemala, is targeted for malaria elimination. However, compared with 2011, a 13-fold increase in cases was reported in 2012. To describe the epidemiology of malaria in Santa Rosa in the setting of the apparent outbreak, demographic and microscopic data from 2008 to 2013 were analyzed. In April 2012, a new surveillance strategy, funded by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, was introduced involving more active case detection, centralized microscopy, increased community engagement, and expanded vector control. Interviews with vector control personnel and site visits were conducted in June 2013. From 2008 to 2013, 337 cases of malaria were reported. The increase in cases occurred largely after the new surveillance strategy was implemented. Most (137/165; 83%) 2012 cases came from one town near a lake. Plasmodium vivax was the malaria species detected in all cases. Cases were detected where malaria was not previously reported. Monthly rainfall or/and temperature did not correlate with cases. Interviews with public health personnel suggested that the new funding, staffing, and strategy were responsible for improved quality of malaria detection and control and thus the increase in reported cases. Improvements in surveillance, case detection, and funding appear responsible for the temporary increase in cases, which thus may paradoxically indicate progress toward elimination.
»Ko bom velik, bom umetnik.«　Eksperimentalni peskovnik japonske avantgarde
Authors: HRVATIN Klara
Published: January 2017

Umetniški center Sōgetsu, ki je eden od pomembnejših avantgardnih središč 60. let 20. stoletja, bi lahko opredelili kot umetniški »eksperimentalni peskovnik«. Japonski umetniki, ki so na svojih področjih danes že mednarodno priznani, so se prav v tem »peskovniku« imeli možnost preizkusiti v krogu interdisciplinarnih umetnikov in najti svoj umetniški slog. Dober primer takšnih ustvarjalcev so: filmski režiser Hiroshi Teshigahara (1927–2001), novelist Kōbō Abe (1924–1993) in glasbenik Tōru Takemitsu (1930–1996).V članku bomo orisali natančen pregled vseh umetniških združenj in njihovih dogodkov, ki so jih oblikovali umetniki v času delovanja Centra, od septembra 1958 (13. septembra je potekalo odprtje Centra) do marca 1971, ko je Center prenehal delovati. V ospredje bodo postavljena glavna združenja oziroma aktivnosti, predvsem s področij jazzovske glasbe, sodobne glasbe, eksperimentalnih filmov in animacije. Poiskali bomo skupen imenovalec vseh aktivnosti v tem »peskovniku« ter poudarili novosti, ki so jih glavni akterji gibanja z deli, ki so nastala v Centru, vnesli na področji glasbe in filma.
A Review of Mobile Language Learning Applications: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Heil Catherine Regina , Wu Jason S. , Lee Joey J. , Schmidt Torben
Published: January 2017

Mobile language learning applications, having exploded in popularity and growth, have the potential to transform the way languages are learned. This study examined the fifty most popular commercially-available language learning applications for mobile phones and evaluated them according to a wide range of criteria. Three major trends were found: first, apps tend to teach vocabulary in isolated units rather than in relevant contexts; second, apps minimally adapt to suit the skill sets of individual learners; and third, apps rarely offer explanatory corrective feedback to learners. Despite a pedagogical shift toward more communicative approaches to language learning, these apps are behaviorist in nature. To better align with Second Language Acquisition (SLA) and L2 pedagogical research, we recommend the incorporation of more contextualized language, adaptive technology, and explanatory feedback in these applications.
A study of Chinese engineering students’ communication strategies in a mobile-assisted professional development course
Authors: Cheng Li
Published: January 2017

The development of students’ professional skills is an important issue in higher education in China. This research reports a 3-month study investigating engineering students’ communication strategies (CS) while they were interacting to do a 12-week mobile-assisted learning project, i.e., “Organizing and Attending a Model International Conference”. This learning project was a major teaching module of the English course of Professional Applications, which used a blended mode of face-to-face instruction and mobile learning. The two theoretical constructs guiding the current study are Communication Strategies and Linguistic Interdependence. Fifty-seven students volunteered to participate in the study. The instruments included eight oral communication sessions, a questionnaire, stimulated recall interviews, the participants’ WeChat exchanges, etc. Results showed that the participants used a variety of CSs when completing the academic tasks. Moreover, these CSs were closely related to the students’ involvement in meaning negotiation and social interaction. Furthermore, the use of strategies to solve communication problems revealed that the participants employed different strategies at different times when doing different tasks. It is suggested that instructors have CS training tailored to their students’ professional needs. Future research should focus on a longitudinal investigation of the amount of scaffolding that helps students transfer their communication strategies across tasks.

 
Depth-dependent geometry of margin-parallel strike-slip faults within oblique subduction zones
Authors: Catalán Ormeño Nicole Stephanie , Bataille Klaus , Tassara Andrés , Araya Rodolfo
Published: January 2017

Based on the principle that faults develop where shear stress is maximum, we determine the depth-dependent geometry of margin-parallel strike-slip faults within oblique subduction zones. Using an elastic half-space model for the south Chile subduction zone, we show that the geometry of a margin-parallel strike-slip fault as the Liquiñe-Ofqui Fault Zone (LOFZ), is vertical near the free surface and curved downwards, until reaching the subducting slab. This geometry is compatible with the observations of reflectors on seismic data obtained from wide angle refraction studies in southern Chile. GPS measurements also support this curved geometry. We suggest that this curved pattern should occur on all margin-parallel strike-slip faults within oblique subduction zones worldwide.
A titularidade dos direitos fundamentais por parte de pessoas jurídicas. A empresa como agente de efetivação dos direirtos sociais: notas introdutórias ao direito empresarial constitucional.
Authors: Sampaio de Moraes Godoy Arnaldo , Perrone Campos Mello Patrícia
Published: January 2017

O ensaio explora o tema da pessoa jurídica e de sua titularidade para o exercício de direitos fundamentais. Argumenta que a efetivação de direitos sociais decorre, também, de instrumentalização das empresas para que possam melhor desempenhar suas funções, inclusive sociais. Como consequência, discute a ampliação da garantia jurisprudencial para que empresas possam atuar melhor, especialmente a partir da jurisprudência do Supremo Tribunal, que já se pronunciou eventualmente sobre a matéria, forte no argumento de que há direitos fundamentais que não se aplicam às pessoas jurídicas, por razões de ordem lógica e fatual.
A efetividade da Lei Maria da Penha quanto à orientação sexual
Authors: Leonardo Francisco Antonio Morilhe
Published: January 2017

O presente trabalho visa refletir a questão da violência contra mulheres na relação homoafetiva, onde a Lei Maria da Penha 11340/06 criou mecanismos incluindo-as nessa seara protetiva, ou seja, independentemente de sua orientação sexual, pois gozam dos direitos fundamentais inerentes a pessoa humana, já que a proteção é assegurada a fatos que ocorrem no ambiente doméstico, testificando que as uniões de pessoas do mesmo sexo também compreendem a uma entidade familiar. Nesse sentido, a lei ampliou o conceito de família, na qual se invocou o princípio da igualdade, pois se incluem penalmente todas as situações que configuram violência doméstica e familiar, tendo a mesma tutela sem distinção, alcançando todas que mantêm relação íntima de afeto em ambiente familiar ou de convívio, uma vez que, em todos os relacionamentos, as situações de violência contra o gênero feminino fundamentam uma peculiar garantia. Utilizou-se o enfoque dedutivo e o levantamento bibliográfico, além da pesquisa qualitativa.
Concept for completeness checking of joined structures exemplified on rail vehicle car body shells
Authors: Jurdeczka Uwe
Published: January 2017

Abstract. Completeness checking of constructional steel structures with several hundred weld-on parts (mountings, such as car body shells/chassis for rail vehicles, for example) still represents a great challenge. It has been performed manually so far. By the use of 3-D scanners, it is possible to obtain sufficiently comprehensive information about the actual configuration (as-is state) of the constructional steel structure to be checked. For this purpose, the laser beam geometry must be contemplated. By using an adapted algorithm for post-processing of the resulting point clouds, difference figures are superimposed over the respective 3-D model as the target state. Therefore, an algorithm was adapted and applied here. The difference figures are useful for signalling the possible deviations and the missing parts, at least, however, suspect points. Thus, the disadvantages of the exclusively manual completeness checking practiced so far, i.e. tiredness and slowness of the inspector, can largely be avoided. The 3-D model-based inspection procedure allows one to handle the variation in the target state with just a few volumes of equal configuration (e.g. less than 10 trains with equal configuration). There is a general problem that the tolerance for the structure is in the same range as the size of the mountings. It is possible to solve this problem by dividing the test item as well as the point cloud into areas. Superposing the 3-D model by point clouds and calculating the difference figures will be performed area by area.
Unanswered clinical questions: a survey of specialists and primary care providers
Authors: Brassil Ellen , Gunn Bridget , Shenoy Anant M. , Blanchard Rebecca
Published: January 2017

Objective: With the myriad of cases presented to clinicians every day at the authors’ integrated academic health system, clinical questions are bound to arise. Clinicians need to recognize these knowledge gaps and act on them. However, for many reasons, clinicians might not seek answers to these questions. Our goal was to investigate the rationale and process behind these unanswered clinical questions. Subsequently, we explored the use of biomedical information resources among specialists and primary care providers and identified ways to promote more informed clinical decision making.Methods: We conducted a survey to assess how practitioners identify and respond to information gaps, their background knowledge of search tools and strategies, and their usage of and comfort level with technology.Results: Most of the 292 respondents encountered clinical questions at least a few times per week. While the vast majority often or always pursued answers, time was the biggest barrier for not following through on questions. Most respondents did not have any formal training in searching databases, were unaware of many digital resources, and indicated a need for resources and services that could be provided at the point of care.Conclusions: While the reasons for unanswered clinical questions varied, thoughtful review of the responses suggested that a combination of educational strategies, embedded librarian services, and technology applications could help providers pursue answers to their clinical questions, enhance patient safety, and contribute to patient-based, self-directed learning. This article has been approved for the Medical Library Association’s Independent Reading Program.
Program Development for Primary School Teachers’ Critical Thinking
Authors: Boonjeam Waraporn , Tesaputa Kowat , Sri-ampai Anan
Published: January 2017

The objectives of this research were: 1) to study the elements and indicators of primary school teachers’ critical thinking, 2) to study current situation, desirable situation, development technique, and need for developing the primary school teachers’ critical thinking, 3) to develop the program for developing the primary school teachers’ critical thinking, and 4) to study the findings of usage in development program for primary school teachers’ critical thinking by using Research and Development. The samples were 384 primary school teachers, and 34 volunteered teachers to participate in development by using questionnaire, evaluation form, and tests. The statistic using for data analysis included the percentage, mean, standard deviation, modified priority needs index (PNImodified), and t-test. The research findings found that: 1) the elements and indicators of primary school teachers’ critical thinking consisted of 3 elements and 12 indicators of critical thinking ability, and 6 elements and 24 indicators of critical thinking disposition, 2) the current situation of primary school teachers’ critical thinking was in “High” level, for desirable situation, it was in “The Highest” level, 3) the development program, consisted of: the principles, objectives, contents, and development activities included 4 Parts, Part 1: the readiness preparation, Part 2: training, Part 3: integration with work practice, and Part 4: posttest, and measurement and evaluation. 4. The posttest score was significantly higher than the pretest score at .01 level.
Theoretical and Methodological Basis of Inclusive Education in the Researches of Russian Scientists in the First Quarter of 20th Century (P. P. Blonsky, L. S. Vygotsky, V. P. Kaschenko, S. T. Shatsky)
Authors: Akhmetova Daniya Z. , Chelnokova Tatyana A. , Morozova Ilona G.
Published: January 2017

Article is devoted to the scientific heritage of educators and psychologists of Russia in the first quarter of the twentieth century. The aim of the research is the identification of the most significant ideas of P. P. Blonsky, L. S. Vygotsky, V. P. Kacshenko, S. T Shatsky which based the theoretical and methodological basis of inclusive education. The article describes a number of provisions that have conceptual value and practical importance for the implementation of inclusive education
Students Evaluation of Faculty
Authors: Thawabieh Ahmad M.
Published: January 2017

This study aimed to investigate how students evaluate their faculty and the effect of gender, expected grade, and college on students’ evaluation. The study sample consisted of 5291 students from Tafila Technical University Faculty evaluation scale was used to collect data. The results indicated that student evaluation of faculty was high (mean = 4.14, S.D. = 0.79) and there were statistically significant differences in students’ evaluation attributed to students’ gender, college and expected grade in the course.
The ‘Teachers Diploma Program’ in Zambian Government Schools: A Baseline Qualitative Assessment of Teachers’ and Students’ Strengths and Challenges in the Context of a School-Based Psychosocial Support Program
Authors: Kaljee Linda , Munjile Kelvin , Menon Anitha , Tembo Stephen , Li Xiaoming , Zhang Liying , Malungo Jacob , Stanton Bonita , Langhaug Lisa
Published: January 2017

In Zambia, as elsewhere throughout sub-Saharan Africa, orphaned and vulnerable children (OVC) face multiple physical, emotional, social and psychological challenges which often negatively affect opportunities for educational attainment. REPSSI (Regional Psychosocial Support Initiative), in collaboration with, the University of Cape Town and other African academic institutions, developed the Teachers’ Diploma Program as part of the Mainstreaming Psychosocial Care and Support into Education Systems to provide teachers and school administrators with the knowledge and skills to provide needed support to students and enhance their learning environments. During initial implementation of the Teachers’ Diploma Program in Zambia (2013-2016), qualitative data was collected as a part of larger outcomes and process evaluation. In the current paper, these qualitative data are presented to describe baseline challenges and strengths within the Zambian government school system and early indicators of change during the first ten months of program implementation. These in-depth data provide both teachers’ and students’ experiences and perspectives and are being utilized to further strengthen the Teachers’ Diploma Program as the Zambian Ministry of Education, Science, Vocational Training and Early Childhood moves forward with plans to implement the training at a national level in colleges of teacher education.