bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHARACTERISTICS OF STUDENTS’ ATTITUDE TO PHYSICS IN MUARO JAMBI HIGH SCHOOL
Authors: . Astalini , Kurniawan Dwi Agus , . Darmaji , Sholihah Lintang Rofiatus , Perdana Rahmat
Published: June 2019

Purpose of Study: This research was conducted to ascertain the students' attitude towards Physics subject in Muaro Jambi High School based on attitude indicator from Test of Science-Related Attitudes (TOSRA).
Methodology: A quantitative survey was used for the study. The subjects of the study were students of 458 students in senior high school 1, 4, 5, and 8 in Muaro Jambi. Instruments research is a questionnaires attitude and motivation. Analytical techniques comprised of using descriptive statistics.
Main Findings: The results of the three indicators of attitude and motivation, namely social implications on personnel categorized have a sufficient category of 42.8% for a total of 196 of 458 students. The dimensions of normality of scientists were to have a sufficient category of 47.4% for a total of 217 out of 458 students. The dimensions of career interest in the field of physics are categorized a good at 38.3% for a total of 175 out of 458 students, and motivation has a good at 42.1% for a total of 193 out of 458 students. There is a relationship between motivation and attitudes of students in motivation in senior high school 1 Muaro Jambi with a r-value of 0.518 and positive, of students in senior high school 4 with a r-value of 0.832 and positive, of students in senior high school 5 with a value of r 0.746 and positive, of students in senior high school 8 with a value of r 0.623 and positive.
Implications: Based on the research results , the indicators that meet the criteria are needed to investigate to improve the results of these indicators, namely the indicator of scientists’ normality and interest in a physics career.
DEVELOPING STRATEGIC SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE MANUFACTURING SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISE: AN EXPLORATIVE STUDY
Authors: Krishnan Dr. Mahadevan , Ahmad Dr. Jamilah
Published: June 2019

Purpose of the study: This study in Malaysia explores the adoption of strategic social responsibility (SR) practices among manufacturing-based small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Methodology: A qualitative approach employing the in-depth interview method was taken-up for this study. Eight respondents from manufacturing SMEs in Penang were randomly selected from the list published by the National SME Agency, which is also reckoned as SMECorp and participated in the study. The selection of senior level managers as respondents was also based on their understanding of strategic SR initiatives and decision-making capacity within their organizations. In order to further ensure that all respondents were equal in their views, the study avoided any attempt to interfere with or incorporate existing business-related practices of SMEs, which could influence the findings of this study.

Main Findings: In order to enable manufacturing SMEs to pursue sustainable and profitable SR practices, the findings first propose a six-phase SR implementation methodology. Secondly, it includes a risk assessment matrix and thirdly, it is followed by a risk transition matrix. The risk assessment and transition matrices serve as determining factors for this sector to pursue such initiatives.

Applications of this study: This enables the adoption of SR initiatives which converts to business competitiveness while positioning the SME strategically from social or environmental or both perspectives. Strategic SR helps to position business, thus proving beneficial for this sector that lacks a method to address SR in a benefitting way. This is vital because strategically aligned SR is able to influence business positioning, thus proving beneficial by contributing to the revenue, image, and brand positioning for this sector.

Novelty/Originality of this study: Being a preliminary study, the findings identify the steps that are to be taken by manufacturing entities of smaller magnitude for SR-related business positioning.
MANAGING INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY IN HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Authors: Rashid Al-Thehli Fatima Ali , Ahamat Amiruddin
Published: June 2019

Purpose of the study: This conceptual paper critically analyzes the critical issues of creativity and innovation management and its implication on the sbroader development aspect of human resource management by highlighting possible scenarios in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Methodology: This study employs review analysis methodology approach. This study utilizes document analysis while employing literature review study approach. Several key literatures in the domain areas of innovation management were analyzed in light of the topic of managing innovation and creativity in human resource and management.

Main Findings: The key contributions for this study demonstrate that creativity and innovation in organization is crucial to institutional survival and growth. This study discovers the role of creativity and innovation as an element of competitive advantage for organizations. Creative and innovative institutions will be demanded to be skilled at creating, acquiring and transferring knowledge and modifying behaviors by using these methods to reflect new knowledge and insights.

Applications of this study: This study can be of importance in the area of innovation management and human resource management. The challenges demands utilization of effective human resource management practices or innovative practices within the new human resource management ecosystem that focuses on enabling the social capital though innovation system. The ability of organization’s to be adaptive for such challenges may lead to organizational competitiveness that allows sustainable performance and growth.

Novelty/Originality of this study: In order for organizational success to be achieved, human resource management ecosystem is to be reshaped into a more adaptive innovative environmental system. This could only be implemented with the strong leadership will by the management.
HOTSPOT ANALYSIS OF HAND FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE (HFMD) USING GIS IN KUCHING, SARAWAK, MALAYSIA
Authors: Seman Busiai Bin , Masron Tarmiji
Published: June 2019

Purpose of the study: The main objective of this study was to identify the hotspot area of HFMD reported cases within two local councils, namely, Kuching North City Council and Kuching South City Council, by using Geographic Information System (GIS) technique.

Methodology: Two methods, namely, Getis-Ord GI* and Thiessen polygon, were used in this study. Getis-Ord GI* statistics was used to identify the hotspot areas and Thiessen polygon method was used to create an influencing boundary for each village. The analysis was conducted from 2014 to 2018 on the basis of the cases reported and registered with Sarawak Health Department by using ArcGIS Software.

Main Findings: The hotspot areas were confined to the Western area of Kuching North City Council, which is located at Rampangi Fasa II and Semariang Pinggir villages. Subsequently, in Kuching South City Council, there were two villages were identified as hotspot areas at Kampung Stampin and Kampung Stutong Baru.

Applications of this study: The findings from this study will help local authorities, public health officers, epidemiologists, and the public to identify the hotspot areas of HFMD occurrences and therefore, the information obtained in this study will be of a great help to them in coming up with the necessary mitigation plan to control this disease before it spreads to other locations.

Novelty/Originality of this study: Previous studies conducted in Sarawak on HFMD were based on divisional boundaries, which were too broad to be used as a guide for mitigation planning. Therefore, the outcome from this study, which was based on the village boundary, provides more information on the hotspot areas of HFMD at a micro level.
A STUDY ON IMPACT OF TESTING ON ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHING IN A SAUDI ARABIAN UNIVERSITY
Authors: Madhusudhan Rao Munagala , Imdadul Haque Mohammad
Published: June 2019

Purpose of the study: The aim of this study is to identify if the teachers of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) yield to testing and results, while teaching. The impact of teaching on testing is called washback. Tests have positive and negative results on the students. The attitude of teachers towards washback impacts a lot on students as they play a pivotal role to reduce the impact of negative influence on teaching and learning.

Methodology: A background information questionnaire is generated for 57 EFL teachers in Saudi Arabia. Besides, another questionnaire with sixteen statements is provided and the participants are asked to respond on the basis of 5-point Likert scale. The data is analyzed with the support of pi and bar charts, SPSS, students’ t-test, and ANOVA.

Main Findings: This study identifies different perspectives of teachers towards the impact of testing on teaching. The experienced faculties teach students and assess them with no washback. On the other hand, the moderately experienced and less experienced teachers get affected by washback. This study identifies that experienced teachers are not influenced by testing.

Applications of this study: If the universities create a platform for all EFL teachers, they can learn from one another. This study identifies that the third group, the experienced, are not influenced by testing. If their experience supports the first and the second groups, it will yield a larger benefit not only to students but also to the teaching fraternity.

Novelty/Originality of this study: The experienced teachers focus more on teaching but not on testing, which is a positive sign. The moderately experienced teachers focus on both the things. The less experienced teachers are neutral to all statements. Based on the current study, the administrators can create a platform for all EFL teachers so that they can get benefitted from one another.
THE IMPACT OF SELF-CONSCIOUS EMOTIONS ON WILLINGNESS TO PAY FOR SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS
Authors: Elsantil Yasmeen , Hamza Eid Abo
Published: June 2019

Purpose: This paper seeks to explore the effect of emotions on sustainable purchasing in Arab countries, mainly Qatar and Egypt. Design/methodology/approach: The current investigation will empirically examine the effects of self-conscious emotions (private and public) on consumers’ ‘green’ purchasing behavior and test whether these actions are mediated by the following emotions: empathy, pride, and guilt. An online self-report survey was employed to collect data from 234 students and faculty members who are affiliated with Qatar University (Qatar) and Tanta University (Egypt). A Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to determine what factors directly and indirectly influence one’s Willingness To Pay (WTP) for sustainable products. Findings: The results showed that private self-consciousness was significantly related to feelings of pride, while public self-consciousness was more closely associated with empathy. Feelings of guilt and pride were more likely to encourage participants to pay greater for sustainable products and services. Originality/value: The link between emotions and sustainable purchasing remains novel in Arab countries. Previous research has found that having ethical awareness toward sustainable purchasing does not amount to purchasing ‘green’ products. This will be the first study to explore the impact emotions can have on sustainable purchasing.
El ascenso de la economía del comportamiento: Misbehaving, de Richard Thaler
Authors: Sunstein Cass R.
Published: June 2019

La economía del comportamiento surgió en la década 1980, debido sobre todo a la obra de Richard Thaler, quien exploró la relevancia del efecto dotación, la contabilidad mental, la preocupación por la justicia y otras “anomalías”, según la teoría económica estándar. Su maravilloso libro, Misbehaving, ofrece una descripción narrativa del surgimiento de estas ideas, y explora algunas de sus implicaciones para el futuro. Los retos continuos incluyen el de hacer predicciones cuando los resultados del comportamiento inciden en direcciones diferentes (como, p. ej., cuando el sesgo optimista entra en conflicto con el sesgo de disponibilidad); entender la línea entre empujar y manipular; y aplicar los resultados del comportamiento a desafíos apremiantes de política pública, como la pobreza, la educación, el terrorismo y el cambio climático.
Analisis Peran Rusia sebagai Mediator dalam Penyelesaian Konflik Nagorno Karabakh Periode 2008-2016
Authors: Dewantara Andhika , Yamin Muhammad
Published: June 2019

The Nagorno Karabakh conflict is a conflict over territorial disputes that is synonymous with inter-Azerbaijan strife that adheres to the principle of integrating its territory in Nagorno Karabakh and Armenia which support the Nagorno Karabakh region and ethnic Armenians who are in it for independence from Azerbaijan. The dynamics of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia continue to unfold, and there has never been a sustainable peace agreement between the two parties in dispute since the peace agreement Bishkek (Bishkek Protocol) 1994. Along with the dynamics of the battle, Russia has a very active role in the mediation and peace-building process between the two parties in conflict. Russia's position as mediator is carried out within the official framework of the OSCE Minsk Group and in the personal initiation of the state in the medium of the trilateral meeting. This research will describe the dynamics of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict in the period 2008-2016 along with efforts to resolve disputes under the Russian role.

Keywords : Nagorno Karabakh Conflict, Russia, Mediation, and Contigency Model
PENGUKURAN OVITRAP INDEX (OI) SEBAGAI GAMBARAN KEPADATAN NYAMUK DI DAERAH ENDEMIS DEMAM BERDARAH DENGUE (DBD) KABUPATEN BANYUMAS
Authors: Mars Wijayanti Siwi Pramatama , Anandari Dian , Ayu Maghfiroh Arrum Firda
Published: June 2019

Mosquito density could predict the risk of Dengue Virus (DENV) transmission in certain area. Ovitrap Index (OI) is one of the methods to measure the mosquito density beside other methods such as Stegomyia Indices and free larvae index. Ovitrap index is cheaper, more appliacable and sensitive to detect Aedes sp activity to lay their eggs on the wall of container. The aims of this research were to measure ovitrap index in endemic DENV areas, to find out the preferences of female Aedes sp to lay their eggs, and find out the correlation between OI and dengue cases in endemic DENV areas. Type of this study was decriptive with cross sectional design. The area of study was in Community Health center Purwokerto Timur II in Kranji, Sokanegara and Purwokerto Lor. Ovitrap were installed at 50 houses of each vilagges (one indoor, one outdoor), with total ovitrap 100 in each villages. After 6 days of installation, ovistrips were collected and the eggs were counted. The Ovitrap index in three villages were observed at percentage more than 50%, with the highest OI detected in Kranji Village (97.56%). Female Aedes sp were monitored to lay their eggs outdoor than indoor. The OI is not always relevant to predict the dengue cases but could inform the risk of DENV tranmission in certain area. The community should do efforts to minimize potential breeding sites, mainly unused container outdoor to reduce the mosquito density.
MAPping Kinetochore MAP Function Required for Stabilizing Microtubule Attachments to Chromosomes during Metaphase
Authors: Varma Dileep , Amin Mohammed , Agarwal Shivangi
Published: June 2019

In mitosis, faithful chromosome segregation is orchestrated by the dynamic interactions between the spindle microtubules (MTs) emanating from the opposite poles and the kinetochores of chromosomes. However, the precise mechanism that coordinates the coupling of kinetochore components to dynamic MTs has been a long-standing question. Microtubule (MT) associated proteins (MAPs) regulate MT nucleation, dynamics, MT-mediated transport and MT cross-linking in cells. Especially during mitosis, MAPs play an essential role not only in determining the spindle length, position and orientation but also in facilitating robust kinetochore-microtubule (kMT) attachments by linking the kinetochores to spindle MTs efficiently. MT-stability imparted by the MAPs is critical to ensure accurate chromosome segregation. This review primarily focuses on the specific function of non-motor kinetochore MAPs, their recruitment to kinetochores and their MT-binding properties. We also attempt to synthesize and strengthen our understanding of how these MAPs work in coordination with the kinetochore-bound Ndc80 complex (the key component of the MT-binding interface in metaphase and anaphase) to establish stable kMT attachments and control accurate chromosome segregation during mitosis.
Pareceres, juristas e apedeutas
Authors: Grau Eros Roberto
Published: June 2019

O autor no presente trabalho busca ressaltar a importância dos juritas para resolver problemas em pareceres através do processo de interpretação e aplicação da lei aos casos concretos.
Agências administrativas, o poder regulamentar e o sistema financeiro nacional
Authors: Moreira Egon Bockmann
Published: June 2019

I. Premissas hermenêuticas. II, As agências administrativas e o direito brasileiro. III. Conselho Monetário Nacional, Banco Central do Brasil e Comissão de Valores Mobiliários - Natureza Jurídica. IV. Função regulamentar. V. Função regulamentar de CMN, BACEN e CVM, em face das Agências. VI. Conclusão. VII. Referências bibliográficas.
Parecer
Authors: Neto Floriano P. Azevedo Marques
Published: June 2019

Visando a solucionar impasse criado com a paralisação de obras de grande importância para a Administração Pública, é submetido à análise dos estudiosos o alvitre de se proceder à cessão do correspondente contrato administrativo, firmado por Órgão Estadual, em favor da Prefeitura Municipal.
Governança e compliance na administração direta: ampliando as fronteiras do controle democrático
Authors: Valle Vanice Regina Lírio do , Santos Marcelo Pereira dos
Published: June 2019

Este artigo explora o potencial de aprimoramento da ação pública que a incorporação à Administração Direta dos vetores de governança e compliance possa trazer. Desenhados origem e conteúdo dos referidos componentes, empreende-se a um breve percurso das razões de endosso e de rejeição de sua aplicabilidade no âmbito da Administração Direita. Adotando como ponto de partida a metodologia dialético-descritiva, desenvolve-se a crítica ao argumento do caráter exógeno das figuras, destacando sua relação intrínseca com a outorga de conteúdo substantivo à procedimentalização, hoje reclamada da Administração Pública, como leito para o desenvolvimento a explicitação da racionalidade administrativa.
Análise sobre aplicabilidade ou não do inciso VII do art. 73 da Lei nº 9.504/97
Authors: Gonçalves Guilherme De Salles , Piana Flávia Eliza Holleben
Published: June 2019

Análise sobre aplicabilidade ou não do inciso VII do art. 73 da Lei nº9.504/97, referente a proibição de gastos com publicidade oficial dos órgãospúblicos no período de janeiro a junho em anos eleitorais. Alcance do §3º domesmo artigo que restringe a vedação nos três meses que antecedem a eleição às esferas administrativas cujos cargos estejam em disputa.
O compartilhamento de infra-estrutura relacionado à prestação de serviço de telefonia e a questão da remuneração pelo uso dos bens compartilhados
Authors: Kozikoski Sandro Marcelo
Published: June 2019

1 Introdução - 2 O compartilhamento de infra-estrutura na Lei nº 9.472/1997 (LGT) - 3 A questão do preço justo e razoável - 4 Das instâncias reguladoras dos conflitos relacionados ao compartilhamento - 5 Síntese - Referências
Teoria geral da ordem jurídica internacional
Authors: Pagliarini Alexandre Coutinho
Published: June 2019

O artigo discute a existência de uma ordem jurídica internacional como sistema normativo veiculador de um dever-ser, defendendo que a fórmula lógica da norma jurídica se amolda também ao direito internacional
A evolução da Administração Pública e de seus mecanismos de controle na Constituição Federal
Authors: Neto Francisco Taveira
Published: June 2019

Evolução da Administração e dos mecanismos de controle no Texto Constitucional - Gestão e controle institucional com foco no resultado - Necessidade de obediência simultânea aos princípios da eficiência e da legalidade - Baixa participação popular - Necessidade de consciência políticapara o exercício do controle social.
Reflexões acerca da efetivação dos direitos sociais
Authors: Nogueira Rafael Moreira
Published: June 2019

Introdução - 2 Da força normativa da Constituição - 3 Dos direitos sociais. Classificação e interpenetração com os direitos individuais fundamentais clássicos - 4 Efetivação dos direitos sociais (intervencionismo estatal e crise do Estado Social) o problema da eficácia dos direitos sociais - 5 Uma breve análise sobre os dados sociais pós-Constituição de 1988 - 6 Um Estado em confronto com sua Constituição. Os riscos para a democracia - 7 Conclusão - Referências
Why we shouldn’t shy away from discussions around decolonising curricula
Authors: Tran Danielle
Published: June 2019

Within the last decade, there has been a steady growth of literature discussing the benefits of internationalising curricula, strategies for making curricula more international and the impact this can have on students’ experience during their time at university and beyond in the world of work. ‘[I]nternationalisation of the curriculum seeks on the one hand to adapt course syllabi as well as teaching and assessment methods to the needs of students who come together from all over the world, bringing with them a plethora of views, cultures, and experiences with learning and teaching; on the other hand, the globalised job market and global political and cultural interactions demand a new style of Higher Education’ (University of Essex, 2012, p.7). The latter definition of internationalising the curriculum thus has clear connections to the argument for decolonising the curriculum, which has been gaining momentum within the critical sphere. Yet the definition for decolonisation curricula continues to be debated. While the internationalising and decolonising of curricula both call for a review of course content and delivery in light of the diverse body of students in our classrooms, I have found there to be at times a slight hesitancy among academics towards employing the phrase ‘decolonising the curriculum’ and fully engaging with conversations around this topic.
Peer-assisted learning to support attainment in Pharmacy
Authors: Maccabe Rebecca , Micallef Ricarda , Carew Dr Mark
Published: June 2019

Academic mentoring (AM) is embedded in two modules of the Pharmacy course, using a peer-assisted learning (PAL) design. Training and payment are given to student mentors who work with academics and the AM team to create student-centred active learning material. In 2017/18, student attendance at PAL sessions was high, with 87% of the first- and second-year Pharmacy cohorts attending a session. Thirteen mentors supported both modules for a semester each. The impact of PAL in these sessions was measured by quantitative and qualitative analyses, using institutional data on retention, progression, attainment and self-report data. These data showed that students who engaged in PAL were: from traditionally under-represented groups in higher education (HE); specifically-disadvantaged students; from a Black and Minority Ethnic background (BME). PAL-engaging students had higher progression, retention and module pass rates. A survey of fifty mentees found unanimous agreement for the proposal that PAL was valuable and it confirmed that mentors were regarded as enthusiastic, organised and prepared. The formalisation of the AM and PAL process, together with its co-production between mentors and mentees, has increased the professionalism of the scheme and should be supported in the future.
Taxus baccata en la Sierra del Aramo (Macizo Central Asturiano)
Authors: Beato Bergua Salvador , Poblete Piedrabuena Miguel Ángel , Cunill Artigas Raquel
Published: June 2019

Se analizan las formaciones vegetales con presencia de Taxus baccata situadas en la Sierra del Aramo, la composición florística de dichas comunidades, su distribución y estado. La investigación se ha fundamentado en el trabajo de campo y las herborizaciones fitosociológicas que han desvelado la relevancia de este taxón en el paisaje vegetal y la singularidad de algunos ejemplares y poblaciones. El estado de los tejos que forman parte del matorral petrano y la falta de brinzales en varias comunidades hace necesario plantear medidas para revertir su dinámica negativa. Asimismo, se ensaya el análisis pedoantracológico en dos ubicaciones por encima del límite superior del bosque, en zonas actualmente deforestadas. Los resultados demuestran la presencia de tejos en el Aramo desde la Edad del Bronce y ponen de manifiesto un cambio en el paisaje en consonancia cronológica con los hallazgos arqueológicos sobre la ocupación humana de las montañas del Macizo Asturiano.
Explaining the determinants of cessation or reduction of hookah (waterpipe) consumption among southern Iranian women: A qualitative study
Authors: Dadipoor Sakineh , Kok Gerjo , Aghamolaei Teamur , Ghaffari Mohtasham , Heyrani Ali , Ghanbarnezhad Amin
Published: June 2019

Background: The consumption of hookah is rising around the world, especially among women, due to social acceptance and a positive attitude. It is also necessary and inevitable to identify the factors that lead to a decrease in this upward trend. The present study aims to explain the determinants of cessation or reduction of hookah consumption among southern Iranian women in Bandar Abbas.
Method: This qualitative study was carried out with a content analysis approach, between 2018 and 2019. In total, 36 in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with experienced individuals (15 women with successful cessation, 21 women with unsuccessful cessation) with maximum variation in age, education, and occupation, from different geographical areas of the city. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis, and MAXqda software version 10 was used for data management.
Results: In total, six main categories were extracted, including incentive backgrounds, the need for liberation, control of external stimuli, religious norms, self-efficacy, and political factors.
Conclusions: The results showed that many external facilitators affect the decision to quit or reduce the use of hookah. Providing the necessary conditions and factors to increase the encouraging factors and perceived threats, spiritual support and high self-efficacy can be effective in the successful cessation or reduction of hookah consumption.
Keywords: Hookah, Smoking cessation, Qualitative research, Smoking, Southern Iran, Woman
What do young doctors know of Palliative Care; how do they expect the concept to work?
Authors: Fernando GVM Chamath , Prathapan Shamini
Published: June 2019

Objectives

Discipline of palliative care is still evolving in developed parts of the world while it remains at an infantile stage in Sri Lanka which has not been formally assessed as of today. We aimed at evaluating the level of palliative care knowledge and opinions among young medical graduates. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among pre-residency medical graduates of Sri Lanka through a social media based on-line survey. The pre-tested questionnaire assessed the level of knowledge on general principles, service organization, clinical management and ethical considerations while it also evaluated their opinions.

Results

Response rate was 35.8% (n=351). The average score among the respondents was 37.25% (standard deviation (SD) = 11.975). Specific knowledge on “general principles” was adequate (score>=50%) with an average of 62.61%, SD=24.5 while “ethics” was observed to be the area with poorest knowledge (average score=19.55%, SD=22). Average scores for “service organization” and “managerial aspects” were 34.54%, SD=17.6 and 32.26%, SD=22.3 respectively. The majority (>90%) believed that de-novo establishment of hospice, hospital and community-based palliative services would sustainably improve holistic patient care. Measures must be taken to optimize basic palliative care knowledge among the undergraduates in view of achieving Universal Health Coverage in the long term.
Performance of provitamin A- quality protein maize inbred lines and derived hybrids in contrasting environments
Authors: Obeng-Bio Ebenezer , Badu-Apraku Baffour , Ifie Beatrice Elohor , Danquah Agyemang , Blay Essie , Talabi Abidemi Olutayo , Dadzie Mustapha Abu , Tchala Noudifoulè
Published: June 2019

Background
Early maturing provitamin A (PVA) quality protein maize (QPM) inbred lines with tolerance to drought and low-N are needed to develop superior hybrids in West and Central Africa (WCA). This study aimed to (i) identify inbred lines that combined drought and low-N tolerance with increased levels of PVA and tryptophan and (ii) assess the relationship among PVA carotenoids, tryptophan and grain yield. Sixty-four inbred lines plus six inbred checks were evaluated under induced drought, low-N and optimal conditions in 2016 and 2017 in Nigeria. The inbred lines were assayed for PVA and tryptophan contents.
Results
Thirty-three of the lines were found to be tolerant to drought and low-N. Ninety percent of the inbred lines had tryptophan contents > 0.075 % per sample in whole grain substantiating the presence of the QPM trait in the inbred lines. Inbred lines TZEIORQ 55 and TZEIORQ 29 combined high PVA contents (15.38 and 12.10μg g-1, respectively) with low-N tolerance while nine inbred lines combined moderate PVA levels (5.06 – 8.34μg g-1) with drought and low-N tolerance.
Conclusions
These maize inbred lines could be utilized to develop superior drought and low-N tolerant hybrids and synthetics with elevated levels of PVA and tryptophan for WCA. The correlations observed among grain yield, PVA and tryptophan of the lines were not significant suggesting that these traits could be improved independently.
The Use of Biodegradable Mulches in Pepper Production in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Moore Jenny C. , Wszelaki Annette L.
Published: June 2019

Plasticulture systems with polyethylene (PE) mulch and drip tape are common for production of peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) in the United States because of their soil warming, moisture conservation, and other advantageous effects. However, disadvantages include disposal costs and plastic pollution of the environment and temperature stress in warm climates with black mulch. Use of biodegradable plastic mulches (BDMs) is becoming more common, as they provide the same benefits of PE mulch without the disposal problems. In 2017 and 2018, we conducted experiments in Knoxville, TN, comparing production of pepper fruit with five different BDM [one white-on-black (WOB) and four black], one black PE mulch, one brown creped, paper mulch, and bare ground control treatments. We also measured the durability and effectiveness of weed suppression of the different mulches over the growing season compared with a hand-weeded bare ground control. Most mulches were degraded, with 40% to 60% of the soil exposed by the end of the season, with the exception of the paper mulch, which was completely degraded at the end of both seasons. Yields were similar among treatments in 2017, with the exception of Naturecycle, which had the lowest yield. Weed pressure was severe, especially in 2018, largely due to early penetration of all mulches except paper by nutsedge. Due to the early and season-long weed pressure and heat stress in black mulches, there were fewer healthy plants in all black-colored mulch treatments in 2018, leading to reduced yields in these treatments. Paper mulch was the only treatment that prevented nutsedge growth; therefore, this treatment and the hand-weeded bare ground treatment had the greatest yields in 2018. WOB also had yields comparable with paper and bare ground plots in 2018, likely due to the cooling effect of the white mulch. The results suggest that in hot climates and in fields infested with nutsedge, paper mulches perform best for midseason pepper cultivation due to the cooling effects and superior weed control.
A competency framework for women empowerment: the case of the local government sector in South Africa
Authors: van der Waldt Gerrit , Fourie David , van Dijk Gerda , Chitiga-Mabugu Margaret , Jordaan Johan
Published: June 2019

Gender representativity in political and managerial positions in local government in general and women empowerment in particular remain contentious issues. Although an extensive statutory and regulatory framework for gender equality was established and despite the fact that specific equity targets are set, it is evident that much more needs to be done to facilitate women empowerment in the local government sector. The purpose of this article is to reflect on findings of an empirical survey conducted amongst female politicians, managers, and experts in the local government sector with the aim to design the parameters of a competency framework for women empowerment. The results support the fact that a women empowerment competency framework should incorporate various dimensions and elements, notably sector-specific job requirements, registered gender-based formal programs in the tertiary education sector, as well as content of women empowerment initiatives taken by non-governmental organizations.
Collaborative model analysis on ride comfort and handling stability
Authors: Liu Yingjie , Cui Dawei
Published: June 2019

For considering the connection and mutual influences between ride comfort and handing stability of a vehicle, a collaborative study on the two performances is carried out in the paper. Firstly based on the UniTire model and combined with filtered white noise models for front and real road excitations, 4-DOF plane model for ride comfort and 2-DOF plane model for handling stability, a collaborative model for ride comfort and handing stability is built by adopting state equations, and a collaborative simulation algorithm for them is also proposed. Then, a collaborative simulation on the ride comfort and handing stability of a vehicle under common road grade and speed conditions is conducted. The results show that the ride comfort and handling stability of a vehicle can be simulated simultaneously by using the collaborative model. The handling stability parameters simulated with the linear UniTire model are larger than those simulated with the nonlinear UniTire model, indicating that it is obviously conservative to study vehicle handling stability with the linear UniTire model.
Double-crosser of the Immune System: Macrophages in Tumor Progression and Metastasis
Authors: Mir Manzoor Ahmed , Mehraj Umar
Published: June 2019

Macrophages are the phagocytic sentinel cells of our body, with high plasticity required to maintain homeostasis. This incredibly diverse set of cells, in response to various environmental stimuli such as cytokines and other factors, constantly alters their functional state/phenotype. They undergo polarization not only into conventional M1/M2 axis but also undergo a diverse spectrum of macrophage subtypes which play critical roles in various immune functions and homeostasis. In the tumor microenvironment, monocytes polarize along with the alternatively activated macrophages AAM or M2 macrophages associated with pro-tumoral features whereas M1 macrophages exert antitumor functions. Tumor-Associated Macrophage (TAM) infiltration has long been associated with poor prognosis and therefore represents potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in solid tumors. Inhibiting the recruitment of monocytes into the tumor microenvironment and targeted deletion of TAMs have shown promising results. Targeting the TAMs towards M1-like macrophages has also demonstrated to be an efficient way to prevent tumor progression and metastasis. Here in this article, we review how TAMs orchestrate different steps in tumor progression and metastasis and the opportunities to target them in the quest for cancer prevention and treatment. Further, we explore how chemotherapies and immunotherapies can target TAM reprogramming and depletion to serve as a strategy for the control of various types of cancers in the future.
Profiling Clinical Characteristics and Treatment Patterns Among Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation Patients: A Real-World Analysis in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Authors: El Kadri Moutaz , Bazargani Nooshin , Farghaly Mohamed , Mohamed Rauf , Awad Nancy , Natarajan Ashok , Pathak Prathamesh , Ghorab Ahmed , El Kakoun Nader , Savone Mirko , Kherraf Sid Ahmed , Mardekian Jack , Di Fusco Manuela
Published: June 2019

Background:

There is a dearth of real-world evidence regarding patient characteristics, Oral Anti-Coagulant (OAC) treatment, and International Normalized Ratio (INR) patterns in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Methods:

This was a retrospective observational study among newly diagnosed adult Non-valvular Atrial Fibrillation (NVAF) patients in the Dubai Real World Claims Database. Selected patients had at least one activity claim during the 12 months pre-index date (baseline period), and a pharmacy claim for apixaban, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, or warfarin from 01 JAN 2015-31 JUL 2017. Patients with valvular heart disease, cardiac surgery, venous thromboembolism, transient atrial fibrillation, pregnancy, or OAC claims during baseline were excluded. Comorbidities and treatment patterns related to OAC use, index dosing, baseline medications, and INR patterns were described.

Results:

Among 5,072 NVAF patients, 468 met the study criteria. A minority of them (14.3%) were prescribed warfarin, and the most frequently prescribed non-vitamin K antagonist OACs (NOACs) were rivaroxaban (33.3%) and apixaban (31.4%), followed by dabigatran (20.9%). Patients’ mean age was 59 years and mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 2.3, with most frequent comorbidities of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, coronary artery disease, and peripheral vascular disease. Additionally, 51% and 33% were on statins and aspirin, respectively, while 39% were on other anticoagulant agents. A large proportion of dabigatran patients were on a lower dose (57%). INR patterns revealed 13% of rivaroxaban, 12% of apixaban, and 7% of dabigatran patients had INR claims.

Conclusion:

This study provides relevant insights into the use of OACs in real-world clinical practice settings in Dubai, UAE.
Application of Calophyllum Inophyllum Seed Husk as a Low-cost Biosorbent for Efficient Removal of Heavy Metals from Wastewater for a Safer Environment
Authors: Adenuga Adeniyi A. , Oyekunle John Adekunle O. , Amos Olufemi D.
Published: June 2019

Background:

Effective treatment of wastewaters for potentially toxic metals
especially at affordable cost is critical to the well-being of man and the environment.

Objective:

This study optimized the conditions for the application of Calophyllum inophyllum
seed husk as biosorbent for simultaneous removal of heavy metals from aqueous
solutions and investigated the removal efficiencies of the biosorbent for Pb2+ and
Cd2+ in wastewater samples.

Methods:

The dependence of the adsorption process on pH, adsorbent dosage, temperature,
initial metal ions concentration, and contact time was evaluated in a batch system by
determining the degree of adsorption of Pb2+ and Cd2+ in simulated industrial wastewater
before application of the biosorbent for metals cleanup in industrial and domestic
wastewater samples.

Results:

The results showed that charring and microwave irradiation of the biosorbent
produced the best performance. The pH of the aqueous solution played a crucial role in
the performance of the biosorbent. Optimum adsorption for both metals occurred within
the first 60 minutes of the process at pH value around 9. Kinetic studies of the process
gave good correlation coefficients for a pseudo-second order kinetic model with adsorption
data that fitted well into the Freundlich and Langmuir models but with Freundlich
isotherm displaying better fitness. The adsorption capacities of the biosorbent were 42.19
and 22.47 mg/g for Pb2+ and Cd2+, respectively.

Conclusion:

The study concluded that the good adsorption capacities of Calophyllum
inophyllum seed husk for the metals is an indications of its considerable potential as a
low-cost biosorbent for simultaneous removal of potentially toxic metals from
wastewaters.
Capital structure as a mediation variable: Profitability and liquidity on company value in real estate companies in Indonesia stock exchange
Authors: Putra I Gede Wibawa Reska , Sedana Ida Bagus Panji
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of variable profitability, liquidity, and capital structure on the firm value in real estate companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). The population of this study is a real estate company listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the period 2013-2017. The method of determining the sample in this study used a purposive sampling method, with several predetermined criteria, then the number of selected samples was 26 companies. Data collection is done using the method of non-participant observation. The data analysis technique used is path analysis which is an extension of the multiple linear regression analysis techniques. Based on the results of the analysis of the study shows that the variables of profitability, liquidity, and capital structure have a positive and significant effect on firm value. The results of the Sobel test also show that the capital structure variable is able to mediate the relationship between profitability and liquidity towards firm value.
O Estágio Curricular Supervisionado como Lócus Central da Profissionalização do Ensino
Authors: Souza Neto Samuel de , Cyrino Marina , Borges Cecília
Published: June 2019

O presente artigo focaliza a formação inicial de professores e o movimento de profissionalização do ensino, tendo como objeto central de investigação o estágio curricular. Elencam-se duas questões de estudo para discussão: 1) Como a questão do estágio curricular supervisionado tem se manifestado na formação inicial de professores?;  2) As reformas propostas no âmbito da formação inicial docente a nível internacional e brasileiro, especificamente do estágio curricular, tomam a profissionalização como pressuposto? Inicialmente são apresentados aspectos conceituais sobre o processo de profissionalização do ensino. Em seguida, fazemos uma breve trajetória sobre como a formação docente foi compreendida e concebida no âmbito da prática. Posteriormente, exploramos alguns exemplos do Brasil, França e Canadá. Nas análises realizadas, observamos que, a partir do processo de profissionalização, a universidade e as instituições de ensino superior assumem a formação inicial de professores, tendo que se estruturar e se organizar para atender suas demandas específicas, assumindo elementos da proposta do modelo profissional de formação. 
Palavras-chave: Formação de professores; Estágio curricular supervisionado; Profissionalização
Editorial
Authors: Moreira Maria Alfredo , Casa-Nova Maria José , Oliveira Lia Raquel
Published: June 2019

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What Do Patients Complain About Online: A Systematic Review and Taxonomy Framework Based on Patient Centeredness
Authors: Liu Jing , Hou Shengchao , Evans Richard , Xia Chenxi , Xia Weidong , Ma Jingdong
Published: June 2019

Background

Complaints made online by patients about their health care experiences are becoming prevalent because of widespread worldwide internet connectivity. An a priori framework, based on patient centeredness, may be useful in identifying the types of issues patients complain about online across multiple settings. It may also assist in examining whether the determinants of patient-centered care (PCC) mirror the determinants of patient experiences.

Objective

The objective of our study was to develop a taxonomy framework for patient complaints online based on patient centeredness and to examine whether the determinants of PCC mirror the determinants of patient experiences.

Methods

First, the best fit framework synthesis technique was applied to develop the proposed a priori framework. Second, electronic databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed, were searched for articles published between 2000 and June 2018. Studies were only included if they collected primary quantitative data on patients’ online complaints. Third, a deductive and inductive thematic analysis approach was adopted to code the themes of recognized complaints into the framework.

Results

In total, 17 studies from 5 countries were included in this study. Patient complaint online taxonomies and theme terms varied. According to our framework, patients expressed most dissatisfaction with patient-centered processes (101,586/204,363, 49.71%), followed by prerequisites (appropriate skills and knowledge of physicians; 50,563, 24.74%) and the care environment (48,563/204,363, 23.76%). The least dissatisfied theme was expected outcomes (3651/204,363, 1.79%). People expressed little dissatisfaction with expanded PCC dimensions, such as involvement of family and friends (591/204,363, 0.29%). Variation in the concerns across different countries’ patients were also observed.

Conclusions

Online complaints made by patients are of major value to health care providers, regulatory bodies, and patients themselves. Our PCC framework can be applied to analyze them under a wide range of conditions, treatments, and countries. This review has shown significant heterogeneity of patients’ online complaints across different countries.