bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing the Administration of an Early Intervention Educational Programme Through Technology; Exploring Usage, Acceptance and Attitudes
Authors: Kent Grainne , Traynor Angeline , Darmody Kate , O'Leary Tess
Published: September 2019

The study aimed to investigate information technology use, attitudes and acceptance before and after the introduction of technology-based work practices in a community-based educational initiative. A convenience sample of Home Visitors was recruited, and a composite survey was used to collect data on participant use, attitudes and acceptance of technology prior to and following the implementation of the new system. Correlations and paired sample T-tests were used to analyse data. A total of 21 Home Visitors completed the survey at baseline and again at one academic year follow-up. Several factors were identified as potentially important in relation to Home Visitor use of technology which included aspects of both attitude (anxiety dependence) and acceptance (needs satisfaction, support availability and use intention). Paired-sample T-tests revealed little change in participant use of technology, which was high from the outset. Anxiety dependence, a component of attitude, was significantly greater at follow-up in comparison with baseline levels. No significant differences were observed in pre-post self-reported acceptance of technology. These findings serve as a guide for community-based organisations considering a move toward technology-mediated work practices.
Assessing the Needs of People with Disabilities in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, UAE
Authors: Gaad Eman
Published: September 2019

While there are many opportunities for people with disabilities (PWD) in Abu Dhabi (AD), UAE, there hardly been a study of what is required to get such people to meet their full potentials. This study commenced December 2012 and lasted for 4 months. The needs assessment based study tried to answer questions like what is needed to achieve the enhancement of the quality of life of PWD in AD region during and after school/centre times. It also looked at what type of needs (financial, assistive, emotional, and other) those people might have, and what are the needs of the parents of PWD that support the development of their children to reach their full potentials. Adding to that what could be recommended to bridge the gap in such needs. The purpose was mainly to develop a good understanding of the landscape. Benchmarking was undertaken from all private centers and scanning the needs of all parents of PWD in government centers across AD as well. It is hoped that researching the findings would help to develop the services on offer for PWD in the Emirate of AD. In order to achieve the aims of this study, 8 centres were selected out of the total of 17 which is the number of private centres in AD. The selection was based on size, location and type of disability as a purposeful sample to insure fair representation of the centres. The researcher conducted 8 filed visits of centers in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain to assess their current services, operating model etc. Individual briefs were prepared for every center with comparisons across specific factors. Scanning all the needs of all the parents of people with disability in the government centres across Abu Dhabi was looked at differently. To insure validity of the data and because the Emirati people with disability clustered mainly in government centres, all nine government centres under Zayed Higher Organization for Humanitarian Care were visited and sample interviews (qualitative and quantitative) from all centres were undertaken. Selected participants were used to interview and investigate up close (purposeful sampling). Findings showed that there is a desperate need for support after school hours despite the care offered during school hours for those who are in school age. Parents need support on several levels especially with how to spend quality time with their children with disabilities.
Status of Divine Word Colleges in Region 1, Philippines
Authors: Callanta-Fontanilla Maria Veronica
Published: September 2019

This study aimed to determine the status of Divine Word Colleges in Region I, Philippines, with the use of a self-devised questionnaire. Majority are 31 â€“ 40 years old, females, married, Bachelorâ€™s degree holders with units in the Masterâ€™s program, ranked instructor I-IV with 1-10 years of working experience and with monthly salary of Php. 9,001-12,000. Majority of the students are taking up Nursing, aged 19-22 years and females. In terms of the status of the colleges along ten dimensions, an overall descriptive rating of â€˜highâ€™ was achieved. There is a significant difference existing between the colleges with eight variables except instruction and library. A relationship exists between civil status and the variables among the administrators, and between highest educational attainment of the respondents and faculty. On the other hand, a negligible and direct perfect degree of relationship was obtained along monthly salary and non-teaching staff variables.
Management of Foreign Teachers in International Educational Institutes in Thailand
Authors: Putthithanasombat Phramaha Min , Walsh John
Published: September 2019

This paper seeks to determine methods and approaches of managing international English language teachers in Thailand in the context of the forthcoming ASEAN Economic Community. Qualitative interviews, focus group and ethnographic observation were used to obtain data. The research shows that schools involved adopt pragmatic approaches to teacher recruitment and management but retain elements of the longstanding paternalistic Thai approach to management of human resources. The research is limited to two research study sites and to a specific time period. Issues are raised concerning the approach of potential international teachers and the means of obtaining employment. The lack of meaningful preparation for the ASEAN Economic Community in the education sector in Thailand is made evident. Management of international school English language teachers in Thailand has been only lightly researched previously and is partly remedied here.
Book Review: George Soros (2010). The Soros Lectures at the Central European University
Authors: Shiva Reviewed By:
Published: September 2019

Its a Book review. Check out full PDF instead
Prediction of the EM signal delay in the ionosphere using neural model
Authors: Stankovic Zoran , Doncov Nebojsa
Published: September 2019

Neural model capable to accurately and efficiently predict a propagation
delay of electromagnetic signal in the ionosphere is proposed in this paper.
The model performs this prediction for a given geographic location in Europe
between 40?(N) and 70?(N) latitude and 10?(W) and 30?(E) longitude,
according to the following parameters: particular day in a year, time during
the day and frequency of a signal carrier. Architecture of the model
consists of four multilayer perceptron (MLP) networks with the task to
estimate, for the known values of the previously mentioned input parameters
of the model, the approximate value of free ions concentration in the
atmosphere along the signal propagation path above the geographic location
of the receiver. Based on the estimated ions concentration and taking into
account the considered frequency of the signal carrier, the model calculates
the time delay of signal propagation in the ionosphere. The developed neural
model is applicable on the whole territory of Republic of Serbia, for all
four weather seasons in the period of low solar activity. The results of
using the proposed model for the prediction of time delay of the GPS (Global
Positioning System) signal in the area of city of Nis are provided in the
paper.
Scada systems in the cloud and fog environments: Migration scenarios and security issues
Authors: Stojanovic Mirjana , Bostjancic-Rakas Slavica , Markovic-Petrovic Jasna
Published: September 2019

This paper addresses scenarios and security issues when migrating SCADA
systems to cloud and fog environments. Migration strategies to the cloud
refer to different cloud infrastructures (public, private or hybrid) as well
as selection of cloud service. Benefits of cloud-based SCADA systems mainly
refer to improving economic efficiency. We further address migration risks,
with regards to quality of service and cyber security. Challenges in
security provisioning encompass security solutions, risk management and test
environment. Finally, we address emerging evolution of SCADA toward fog
computing, including the three-tier system?s architecture and security
issues.
Pengendalian Intern dalam Sistem Informasi Akuntansi Berbasis Komputer
Authors: Suwarno Agus Endro
Published: September 2019

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Optimalisasi Motivasi Berprestasi Dan Pendidikan Karakter Dampaknya Terhadap Prestasi Belajar Materi Himpunan Melalui Pendekatan Konstruktivisme Pada Siswa Kelas VII D SMP Negeri 3 Teras Kabupaten Boyolali Semester Gasal Tahun Pelajaran 2014/2015
Authors: Suryana Muh. Fakhrudin
Published: September 2019

The purpose of the study is describing the achievement motivation, charac- ter education, and learning achievement. The research subject are 30 students of VII D grade, SMP Negeri Teras Boyolali. Data collection method used observation, ques- tionnaires, documentation, and testing. Data analysis used a critical and comparative analysis. Indicators of learning success is passing grade, Research procedures and 100% class attedance used cycles. Results of research and discussion shows that: 1) Consrtruc- tivism approach,  help optimising the readiness of teachers in the learning of the initial conditions to the first cycle of 17.1%, then from the first cycle to cycle II, an increase of 30% as well as from the initial condition to a second cycle of 47.1%; 2) Through consrtructivism approach can optimize the preparation class for learning from the initial conditions to the first cycle of 26%, then from the first cycle to the second cycle there is an increase of 22% as well as from the initial condition to the second cycle by 48%;3) Through consrtructivism approach can optimize the achievement motivation of the initial conditions to the first cycle there is an increase student achievement of grade of 23%, from the first cycle to cycle II, an increase of 20%, and of the initial conditions of the second cycle to an increase of 43%; 4) Consrtructivism approach can optimize the educational character of the initial conditions to the first cycle there is an increase of 13% grade achievement, from the first cycle to cycle II, an increase of 20%, and of the initial conditions of the second cycle to an increase of 33%; 5) Consrtructivism approach can optimize student achievement of the initial conditions to the first cycle there is an increase of 20% grade achievement, from the first cycle to cycle II, an increase of 20%, and of the initial conditions of the second cycle to an increase of 40%; 6) through kon- srtruktivisme approach can optimize achievement motivation, character education, and mathematics achievement assemblage material, because students are able to construct their own knowledge, although it can not be separated from the guidance of a teacher
Peningkatan Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Prediksi Soal-Soal Ujian Nasional Mata Pelajaran Matematika Melalui Pendekatan Jigsaw Pada Peserta Didik Kelas IX A SMP Negeri 4 Boyolali Semester Genap Tahun Pelajaran 2012/2013
Authors: Wahyuni Sri
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this study was to describe the optimization problem solving skills predictions about national exam mathematics courses through Jigsaw approach at a ninth grade students of State Junior High School  4 Boyolali. Subject and source of research data were do students of class IX A. The methods of collecting data were questionnaires, documentation, and test. Data were analyzed using a critical and comparative analysis. Indicators of success or graduation used criteria 5.5 (scale 4) or 55 (scale 100) and a target of 100% completion. The procedure used a classroom action research study conducted in three cycles, the first cycle was as initial condition, while the second and third cycles were as action. The results of research suggest that: (1) the motivation of participants students in learning mathematics courses before cycle can be described increase in the result, namely from before cycle to the first cycle, an increase of before cycle is average of 56 to the first cycle of an average of 58 (4%), of the first cycle an average of 58 the second cycle to an average of 79 of 21 (36%). Thus, the higher motivation of learners shows an impact on learning outcomes. While the mathematics learning outcomes can be described increase in the result, namely from before cycle to the first cycle, an increase of before cycle average of 45 to the first cycle an average of 59 of 14 (31%), from the first cycle an average of 59 to the second cycle mean average 69 of 10 (17%). Finally it can be said that using jigsaw for optimization problem solving skills predictions about national exam mathematics courses is recommended.
Synthesis and Characterizations of Hydroxyapatite from Bovine Bone Using Alkaline Hydrolysis Method
Authors: Aisah Nuning , Harahap Muslim Efendi , Budianto Dwi , Wibowo Mirza , Effendi Mohammad Dachyar , Setiawan Jan , Roseno Seto , Gustiono Dwi
Published: September 2019

In this research, the synthesis of hydroxyapatite compound (HAp) has been done by extracting technique from cow cortex thigh bones to eliminate organic compounds contained in bone so that it can be used as raw material of bone graft. The method used is alkaline hydrolysis method of soaking bone in NaOH solution with variation of concentration (1M, 2M, 3M) and immersion time (30 minutes, 60 minutes, 90 minutes). The extracted HAp powder was then analyzed using FTIR, XRD and SEM. The results showed that a hydroxyapatite powder with a soaking time of 30 minutes and a 2M and 3M NaOH concentration did not contain organic elements. The XRD peak pattern shows the phase formed is a hydroxyapatite with a hexagonal structure having an average crystal size of 10-12 nm.
Percepção de professores sobre a educação ambiental no ensino fundamental
Authors: Bizerril Marcelo , Faria Dóris S.
Published: September 2019

A inserção da educação ambiental nas escolas é avaliada a partir da opinião de professores em atividade no ensino fundamental do Distrito Federal. As impressões dos professores demonstram que este tema consiste em atividades esporádicas e superficiais, muitas vezes restritas às disciplinas de Geografia e Ciências. As principais dificuldades dos professores dizem respeito às questões orçamentárias e estruturais, como, também, à motivação, capacitação e compreensão do tema, além de dificuldades de relacionamento entre si e em liderar projetos e comprometer-se com o seu andamento. A parceria entre centros de pesquisa e as escolas é considerada como primordial na busca de mudanças neste quadro.

Palavras-chave: educação ambiental; interdisciplinaridade; formação de professores; ensino fundamental.

Abstract

The insertion of the environmental education in the schools is evaluated starting from the opinion of teachers' from the fundamental teaching of Distrito Federal. The teachers' perception demonstrate that this theme consists of sporadic and superficial activities, often restricted to the disciplines of geography and sciences. The teachers' main difficulties say respect to the budgetary and structural subjects, as well as to the motivation, training and understanding of the theme, besides difficulties in the relationship among teachers and in leading and commiting with the course of school projects. The communication between research centers and the schools is considered as primordial in the search of changes in this situation.

Keywords: environmental education; interdisciplinarity; fundamental education; teacher formation.
Relatório do Grupo de Trabalho sobre Financiamento da Educação
Authors: Pinto José Marcelino de Rezende
Published: September 2019

O financiamento da educação é um tema urgente nas discussões sobre os rumos que se pretende dar à educação em nosso País, uma vez que, sem os recursos adequados, torna-se praticamente impossível atender ao princípio constitucional que assegura uma escola de qualidade para todos os brasileiros. O texto aqui apresentado é fruto do relatório de um grupo de trabalho criado pelo ministro Cristovam Buarque para analisar o tema. Nele são analisados os gastos feitos pelos diferentes níveis de governo, assim como pelas famílias, em educação. Discutem-se, ainda, os custos de uma escola de qualidade e o impacto da criação do Fundo de Manutenção e Desenvolvimento da Educação Básica (Fundeb), bem como da implementação das metas estabelecidas no Plano Nacional de Educação (PNE). A principal conclusão do relatório é que, para atingir os novos patamares de atendimento em qualidade e quantidade definidos pelo PNE, o Brasil deveria sair do atual patamar de gastos públicos em educação, da ordem de 4,3% do PIB, para atingir, em dez anos, o montante de 8% do PIB. Ao final, apontam-se também as possíveis fontes para viabilizar esste aumento significativo nos gastos com educação.

Palavras-chave: financiamento da educação; custos da educação; recursos financeiros para a educação.

Abstract

Education finance is an urgent theme in the discussions on the directions that one intends to give to the education in Brazil, since that, without the appropriate resources, it becomes practically impossible to attend to the constitutional principals that assures a quality school for all the Brazilian people. The text here presented represents part of the report of a working group created by the Education Minister Cristovam Buarque to analyze the theme. In this work, the expenses in education done by the different government levels are analyzed, as well as by the families. One still discusses the costs of a quality school and the impact of the creation of the Fund of Maintenance and Development of the Basic Education (Fundeb), as well as of the implementation of the established goals in the National Plan of Education (PNE). The main conclusion of the report it is that, to reach the new attendance landings in quality and amount defined by PNE, Brazil should leave the current landing of public expenses in education, of the order of 4,3% of GDP, to reach, in ten years, the amount of 8% of GDP. Finally, one points out the possible sources to make viable this significant increase in the expenses with education.

Keywords: education finance; education costs; financial resources for the education.
Complexity of Global Banks and their Foreign Operation in Hong Kong
Authors:   Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, Kwan Simon , Ho Kelvin ,   Hong Kong Monetary Authority, Tan Edward ,   Hong Kong Monetary Authority
Published: September 2019

This paper studies the relation between the complexity of global banking organizations and their foreign banking operations (FBOs) in Hong Kong. Our empirical evidence indicates that the complexity of the parent company has significant effects on their Hong Kong branch’s business model, liquidity management, risk-taking, and profitability. The more complex the global banking organizations, their Hong Kong FBOs are more likely to derive a larger share of revenues from fee-based activities, and incur a higher cost of production despite enjoying a funding cost advantage. Notwithstanding the FBOs in Hong Kong may serve as a funding hub for its parent company, FBOs of more complex global banks tend to hold more liquid assets. While our empirical evidence suggests that the complexity of global banks has significant effects on FBOs risk-taking and profitability, the relation depends on how complexity is measured. For example, both the BCBS complexity score and the measure of geographic complexity are significant in explaining FBO profitability, but they have different signs. Likewise, geographic complexity and scope complexity are often found to have significantly different effects on FBOs performance. Taken together, the concept of global bank complexity has multiple dimensions, where different facets could have qualitatively different effects on FBOs in Hong Kong.
La Güera Rodríguez: la construcción de una leyenda
Authors: Arrom Silvia Marina
Published: September 2019

Doña María Ignacia Rodríguez de Velasco, conocida simplemente como La Güera Rodríguez, ha fascinado a los mexicanos tanto durante su vida como después de su muerte. Este artículo compara la “verdadera” mujer con sus representaciones posteriores en obras históricas, literarias y artísticas. Sigue su trayectoria por la vida (interesante, pero no extraordinaria para una mujer de su clase y época), su desaparición de las letras mexicanas en la segunda mitad del siglo XIX, y su resurrección y transformación en el siglo XX y XXI que la convirtió en una figura icónica. En este largo camino hacia la fama se apartaba más y más de la mujer de carne y huesos que vivió de 1778 a 1850. De hecho, ella ha sido sujeto de tantos mitos que es muy difícil desenredar a la mujer de la leyenda. Este análisis de la construcción de esas leyendas ilumina la cultura mexicana en varios periodos, porque las diferentes versiones de La Güera que se han elaborado en distintos momentos reflejan la ideología de cada autor y el contexto de su época. También nos recuerda que la historia todavía vive y que hay una gran brecha entre los acontecimientos históricos y la memoria de éstos.
Neutron Characterization of BNCT Water Phantom Based on Kartini Research Reactor Using PHITS
Authors: Hutaria Vika , Susilo Susilo , Sardjono Yohannes
Published: September 2019

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is a therapy that utilizes the interaction of thermal neutrons with a boron-10 core that produces alpha particles and lithium nuclei. The result of this boron reaction has high linear energy transfer (LET).  BNCT has an advantage over other radiation therapy in that it has a high selectivity level. This research was run using PHITS simulation to find out the value of neutron flux spread over a water phantom. The conclusion of the research is the distribution of neutron flux in the water phantom without boron is higher the the distribution of neutron flux in the water phantom containing boron
Immunohistochemical Detection of Vasa Antigen and Apoptosis-Related DNA Fragmentation in Ovaries of Sheep Fetuses Prenatally Exposed to Vitamin D Deficiency
Authors: Mbegbu Edmund C. , Obidike Ikechukwu R. , Fouladi-Nashta Ali A.
Published: September 2019

The primordial germ cells (PGCs) in female animals are comprised of diplotene oocytes arrested in the first meiotic prophase. Expression of Vasa is one of the key factors required for subsequent resumption of development and recruitment of PGCs into the growing follicle class. Since vitamin D regulates recruitment of PGCs and developmental competence of ovarian follicles, this study was designed to investigate the expression of Vasa and rate of apoptosis in foetal ovaries prenatally restricted from dietary vitamin D. Nineteen sexually mature Welsh mountain ewes were randomly assigned to vitamin D deficient (VDD) and vitamin D control (VDC) diets from 17d before mating, up to 125d of gestation, when fetal ovaries were collected and fixed in formalin for immunohistochemistry and TUNEL assay. VDD ovaries had fewer healthy oocytes that could stain positive for Vasa as well as a lower integrated density value for DAB staining intensity. Conversely, TUNNEL staining in VDD animals showed a higher integrated density value and percentage of affected area (P<0.05). The present findings indicate that Vasa expression is decreased, while the rate of apoptosis increased in VDD fetal ovaries, and this may adversely affect resumption of growth and development of PGCs reserve.
Clinical and Radiological Evaluation of the Treatment of Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture in Cats with the Musculus Biceps Femoris Transposition Technique
Authors: Şen İlker
Published: September 2019

The aim of this study was to clinically and radiologically evaluate the technique of biceps femoris muscle transposition as a new extracapsular treatment technique for cranial cruciate ligament ruptures, which are often encountered in cats. In this study, eight cats diagnosed with cranial cruciate ligament rupture were treated with the biceps femoris muscle transposition technique. The postoperative standard clinical examination procedures were applied to each cat for 90 days. In the preoperative clinical and radiological examinations of the eight cats in the study, cranial cruciate ligament rupture alone was diagnosed in seven of them. Both, the cranial cruciate ligament rupture and meniscal lesions in the same stifle joint were determined in one cat. The biceps femoris muscle transposition technique operation took approximately 20 mins in each case.

The postoperative radiographs were taken on days 10, 30, 60 and 90. No complications were seen in any case during the postoperative follow-up. The Illinois University Evaluation Scale was used for a more objective evaluation. At 90 days postoperatively, there was no lameness in seven out of eight cats, and mild limping was determined in one of them due to concomitant meniscal lesion.

According to the study results, the biceps femoris muscle transposition technique was found to be extremely useful as an easily applicable technique in the treatment of cranial cruciate ligament rupture in cats.
Comparative Study of Needle Penetration Forces in Sewing Hems on Toweling Terry Fabrics: Influence of Needle Type and Size
Authors: Carvalho Manuel , Rocha Ana Maria , Carvalho Helder
Published: September 2019

In this paper, an industrial case study comparing the use of different needles in the production of hems in towels is presented. The study aims to assess the sewability of the fabrics, quantified by needle penetration forces. The market offers an interesting range of options for the needle, regarding the geometry of the needle point, surface finishing, and sizes. However, in practice, the choice is difficult, namely due to the lack of quantitative data that may support the empirical evaluation made by the sewing technicians. The work aims to assess how the needle type and size relate to the resulting needle penetration forces. Three terry fabric structures, produced by a home textiles manufacturer, were tested using needles of different sizes, points, and coatings. Needle penetration forces were measured on a sewability tester prototype, previously designed and developed, based on an instrumented overedge sewing machine. It was found that needle penetration forces present very significant differences with small size increments, needle coating also influences forces significantly, and different needle points produce only slight differences, significant only on some of the fabrics that were tested.
Verbalization of Main Spectral Colors in Texts of Ukrainian Charms
Authors: Shuliak S. , Bezliudnyi O. , Koval V. , Masliuk K.
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this article is to study the verbalization of the main spectral colors in the texts of Ukrainian charms. In order to achieve the goal, the following tasks must be realized: 1- To determine the emotional and estimated semantics of red, blue, green, yellow colors and the function performed by the above-mentioned color titles to ensure pragmatics of charms. 2- To find out the direct and associative values of the main spectral colors in the texts of Ukrainian charms. 3- To discover the most common morphological category of color titles. It is established that the titles of the main spectral colors in the charming texts are usually filled with positive emotional-estimated semantics, but sometimes they are able to acquire other semantic shades of contradictory significance. As a result, the adjective is defined as the most common morphological category of color titles. The direct and associative values of the main spectral colors in the texts of Ukrainian charms are found. In conclusion, the color epithets of red, blue, green, yellow are capable of performing an emotional and expressive function, which contribute to the pragmatic effect of charms.
Alienation and Character Typology in African American and Native American Narratives: A Jungian Reading of The Bluest Eye and Winter in the Blood
Authors: Garuba Issa Omotosho
Published: September 2019

Alienation is a recurring literary subject in the United States. Its peculiarity is occasioned by the phenomenon of racial segregation, among others, with which the society is characterized. Thus, considerable critical attention has been given to the causes as well as the attendant socio-political, economic and psychological imports on the victims. From a psychological perspective, specifically, this paper engages in a comparative analysis of the effects of alienation on characters of African American and Native American origins produced by the same system in two novels which have African American and Native American roots – Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye and James Welch’s Winter in the Blood, respectively. In order to understand the variance and/or convergence in the personality formations of the African American and Native American characters in the narratives, consequent upon the racially alienating system, the paper adopts Carl Jung’s psychological theory of personality typology, labelled introversion and extraversion, with a view to assessing how, typically, persons of these origins are more likely to react to the socio-political, cultural and economic situations affecting them as minority ethnic groups in the United States.
KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, HER2 and microsatellite instability in metastatic colorectal cancer – practical implications for the clinician
Authors: Afrăsânie Vlad-Adrian , Marinca Mihai Vasile , Alexa-Stratulat Teodora , Gafton Bogdan , Păduraru Marius , Adavidoaiei Anca Maria , Miron Lucian , Rusu Cristina
Published: September 2019

Background

Colorectal cancer is a successful model of genetic biomarker development in oncology. Currently, several predictive or prognostic genetic alterations have been identified and are used in clinical practice. The RAS gene family, which includes KRAS and NRAS act as predictors for anti-epithelial growth factor receptor treatment (anti-EGFR), and it has been suggested that NRAS mutations also play a role in prognosis: patients harboring NRAS alterations have a significantly shorter survival compared to those with wild type tumours. BRAF V600E mutations are rare and occur mostly in tumors located in the ascending colon in elderly female patients. BRAF is instrumental in establishing prognosis: survival is shorter by 10–16 months in BRAF-mutant patients, and BRAF may be a negative prognostic factor for patients who undergo hepatic or pulmonary metastasectomy. Moreover, this mutation is used as a negative predictive factor for anti-EGFR therapies. Two new biomarkers have recently been added to the metastatic colorectal cancer panel: HER2 and microsatellite instability. While HER2 is still being investigated in different prospective studies in order to validate its prognostic role, microsatellite instability already guides clinical decisions in substituted with advanced colorectal cancer.

Conclusions

There are current evidences that support using above mentioned genetic biomarkers to better identify the right medicine that is supposed to be used in the right patient. This approach contributes to a more individualized patient-oriented treatment in daily clinical practice.
Factors affecting the morbidity and mortality of diverting stoma closure: retrospective cohort analysis of twelve-year period
Authors: Krebs Bojan , Ivanecz Arpad , Potrc Stojan , Horvat Matjaz
Published: September 2019

Background

Diverting stoma is often performed in rectal cancer surgery for reducing the consequences of possible anastomotic failure. Closing of stoma follows in most cases after a few months. The aim of our study was to evaluate morbidity and mortality after diverting stoma closure and to identify risk factors for complications of this procedure.

Patients and methods

At our department, we have performed a retrospective cohort analysis of data for 260 patients with diverting stoma closure from 2003 to 2015. Age, stoma type, patient’s preoperative ASA score, surgical technique and time to stoma closure were investigated as factors which could influence the complication rate.

Results

218 patients were eligible for investigation. Postoperative complications developed in 54 patients (24.8%). Most common complications were postoperative ileus (10%) and wound infection (5%). Four patients died (1.8%). There was no effect on complication rate regarding type of stoma, closing technique, patient’s ASA status and patient age. The only factor influencing the complication rate was the time to stoma closure. We found that patients which had the stoma closed prior to 8 months after primary surgery had lower overall complication rate (p<0. 05).

Conclusions

To reduce overall complication rate, our data suggest a shorter period than 8 months after primary surgery before closure of diverting stoma. As diverting stoma closure is not a simple operation, all strategies should be taken to reduce significant morbidity and mortality rate.
Impact of Concentrate Level and Stage of Lactation on Fatty Acid Composition in Goat Milk
Authors: Novotná K. , Ptáček M. , Fantová M. , Nohejlová L. , Stádník L. , Okrouhlá M. , Peták Z.
Published: September 2019

The impact of different amounts of concentrate and stage of lactation on fatty acid profile in milk fat was measured in 30 lactating Nubian goats. The ration included medium-quality hay, grazed pasture and concentrate feed (mashed barley, oats and beet pulp at 1:1:1 wet weight ratios). Half of the goats (group A) received 1.2 kg whereas group B received 1.0 kg of concentrate daily. Milk samples were taken 3 times during lactation. The total amounts of saturated fatty acids (SFA) increased gradually during lactation while polyunsaturated (PUFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) decreased. Group A had lower SFA but higher concentrations of MUFAs and PUFAs at all 3 samplings. Nubian goats fed more concentrate had FA ratios presumably more suitable for consumers of milk and milk products.
Learning Processes and Study Strategies Influential to College Adjustment
Authors: Adams Katharine S. , Breneiser Jennifer E.
Published: September 2019

This study investigated relationships between entry-level learning processes and study strategies and student adaptation to college. A regression model consisting of the Learning and Study Skills Inventory (LASSI; Weinstein & Palmer, 2002) subscales and GPA significantly predicted student adaptation to college as measured by the Student Adaptation to College Questionnaire (SACQ; Baker & Siryk, 1999). The attitude and anxiety subscales emerged as significant predictors in this model. Correlational results indicated that attitude and anxiety were significantly correlated with four specific aspects of college adaptation (i.e., academic, personal-emotional, or social adjustment; and institutional attachment). Attitude was most strongly correlated with academic adjustment. Anxiety was most strongly correlated with personal-emotional adjustment. Consideration of these findings provides practical insights into the college adjustment process. Implications are discussed and suggestions for orientation and retention programs are offered.
Comprehending the Cost
Authors: Taylor Z. W.
Published: September 2019

As the cost of college rises, students and their families seek new ways to save money. Application fee waivers are offered by many postsecondary institutions in the United States, but higher education as a field has not examined whether or not the application fee waiver statement published on each institution’s website is readable. This study examined the readability of application fee waiver statements of the public and private institutions charging the highest undergraduate application fees for the 2015-2016 academic year (n = 39). The results suggest that the majority of application fee waiver statements are unreadable by prospective postsecondary students, and no statements were translated into a language other than English. Implications for policy, practice, and future research are addressed.
Polyvinyl alcohol/CuO nanocomposite hydrogels: facile synthesis and long-term stability
Authors: BORAN Filiz , KARAKAYA Çiğdem
Published: September 2019

Within this study, Polyvinyl alcohol/CuO nanocomposite hydrogels were synthesized through dispersing CuO nanoparticles in a PVA solution, using the freeze-thawing procedure in order for physically crosslinking.  The average particle size of CuO nanoparticles which was added to the hydrogel was determined as 3.51 nm according to the XRD analysis after the ball milling process.  The presence of CuO nanoparticles in nanocomposite hydrogels was determined by UV-vis spectroscopy, FESEM, EDS, and FTIR analysis.  Also, the rheological properties of neat hydrogel and PVA/CuO nanocomposite hydrogels were examined.  The addition of CuO nanoparticles to the polymer structure develops rheological features of PVA hydrogels.  The Effect of CuO content of nanocomposite hydrogels on the swelling behavior and long term stability was investigated.  These nanocomposite hydrogels demonstrated unique properties for biomedical applications due to their high swellability at pH 2.1 as the pH values of the stomach and long term stability.  According to these results, the addition of CuO to the hydrogel structure improved the swelling characteristics of neat PVA hydrogel.
THE LEARNING CULTURALLY ACCEPTED INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT MODEL FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN INDONESIA
Authors: Irwanto Irwanto , Mujib Abdul , Firmansyah Firmansyah , Rizky Eriando , Prasetyanti Widya
Published: September 2019

In rapid national development, persons with disabilities (PWD) are often lack behind due to lack of policy undertaking that accommodate their limitations and enabling their capacities and strengths. CBR model has been developed by WHO to empower PWD so that they are enabled to participate and contribute in their community as a equel members of the society. This study is reported as a lessons learned from two inclusive disability-based NGO in the districts of Cirebon and Tegal-Slawi. Leaders were funded by Leprosy Research Institute to identify sustained Community Based Organizations (CBOs) in Java and to learn the implementation of CBR principles and inclusive practices. Their journey found only some evidence of CBOs that adopt and implement CBR principles. The lessons learned are used to direct the future development of their respective organizations.
ASSOCIATION OF INDAZIFLAM AND OXYFLUORFEN IN COFFEE PRE- TRANSPLANTATION
Authors: Pucci Laís Franchini , Fukada Paulo Massaharu , Pereira Gustavo Antônio Mendes , Alves Deivide Patrik , Gomes Carolina Alves , Reis Marcelo Rodrigues dos
Published: September 2019

Weed management in the pre-transplantation of coffee plants is an essential condition for the future success of the crop. Currently, the producer has few options to perform chemical management at this stage. Therefore, one of the solutions that is being used is the tank mixing of products proven efficient with new products on the market, such as indaziflam. The objective of this study is to know the selectivity of indaziflam, associated or not with oxyfluorfen, in coffee pre-planting and its effectiveness in weed control. Thus, the following treatments were tested in the field: indaziflam (25 g ha-1 a.i.), indaziflam (50 g ha-1 a.i.), oxyfluorfen (960 g ha-1 a.i.), indaziflam (25 g ha-1 a.i.) + oxyfluorfen (960 g ha-1 a.i.), indaziflam (50 g ha-1 a.i.) + oxyfluorfen (960 g ha-1 a.i.), plus a weeded and a non-weeded control. All treatments caused low intoxication in the seedlings, but without impairing the development and orphological variables of the plants. The treatments were efficient in controlling the species Bidens pilosa L., Commelina benghalensis L., Urochloa decumbens, Emilia fosbergii and Melampodium perfoliatum until 68 days after application. At 104 days, it was observed that there was a reduction in the efficiency of the products. It is concluded that the associated use of indaziflam and oxyfluorfen does not cause intoxications capable of interfering with the development of coffee plants. The association of these herbicides or their isolated applications is efficient in the control of weeds in the pre-transplantation of coffee plants, and the choice of the best management strategy is dependent on the weed community present in each area.
INDAZIFLAM APPLICATION IN NEWLY TRANSPLANTED ARABICA COFFEE SEEDLINGS
Authors: Gomes Carolina Alves , Pucci Laís Franchini , Alves Deivide Patrik , Leandro Vitor Alves , Pereira Gustavo Antônio Mendes , Dos Reis Marcelo Rodrigues
Published: September 2019

Weed management is one of the main and most problematic cultural practices used in coffee plantations. Slow growth, broad spacing associated with scarce registered products for weed control at an early crop stage, are the main problems faced by producers. Therefore, it is desirable for new herbicidal molecules to be registered for this crop, as is the recent case of indaziflam. This study aimed to know the influence of indaziflam on the morphological characteristics of coffee plants and to propose alternatives to reduce its effects on plants. Therefore, the effects of this herbicide on two arabica coffee cultivars were studied, as well as the association of this herbicide with protection of the seedling collar (PVC pipes and bovine manure). Controls on weeds, possible intoxications on seedlings and effects on the main morphological characteristics of coffee plants were evaluated. The morphological growth of cultivar 144 is naturally higher than that of cultivar IBC 12. Although treatments with the use of indaziflam cause intoxication in the seedlings, a reduction in plant damage was observed over time, and the damage was insignificant. In general, it was observed that cultivar IBC 12 suffered minor intoxications, but it is more sensitive to the presence of indaziflam, since it presented greater damage in the morphological variables. The use of manure with the PVC pipe can be an alternative to reduce the effects of this herbicide, as it reduced the effects of the product on the root system of this cultivar. It is concluded that the application of indaziflam causes mild symptoms in coffee plants independent of the planted cultivar. Indaziflam causes reduction in seedling morphology, and this effect is dependent on the cultivar used. The use of manure associated to the PVC pipe can be an alternative to reduce the effects of indaziflam, mainly in the root system of coffee plants.
Comparative performance assessment of composite indicators for DMFT, DMFS, FS-T and T-Health indices among a 35-44 year old urban population: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Rathore Bhumika , Sagarkar Anitha R. , Krishnappa Pushpanjali
Published: September 2019

Introduction:

Several limitations of decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) (DMF surfaces [DMFS]) have been addressed with the introduction of new composite indicators such as filled and sound teeth (FS-T) and T-health. These indices not only reflect the determinants of oral health but also reveal the utilization of health services and help in planning health programs.

Objectives:

The objectives of this study were to assess the dentition status and extract DMFT, DMFS, FS-T, and T-health scores and to determine which of the four would represent the dentition status of a population.

Basic Research Design:

A cross-sectional study was planned to collect data through probability proportionate sampling. Participants: Two hundred and forty-one individuals aged between 35–44 years old residing in Bangalore city. Sociodemographic data were collected and oral examination of subjects was done to obtain the scores for DMFT, DMFS, FS-T, and T-health indices. Data obtained were analyzed using the SPSS version 19.

Results:

DMFS index showed maximum variance of 8.5% followed by T-health index which was 7.7%. FS-T showed the variance of 7.2%. Among the individual components, missing teeth component and sound functional teeth showed the maximum variance of 7.6% and 7.1%, respectively.

Conclusion:

DMFS as an indicator of dentition status is more sensitive than the other three compared indices in identifying sociodemographic factors, utilization of health services by a population, and perceptions about oral health as determinants of oral health.
Parámetros de crecimiento de Cardisoma guanhumi en el departamento del Magdalena, Colombia
Authors: Cardona Acuña Luisa Francisca , Campos Néstor Hernando , Hernández Rolong Elkin
Published: September 2019

In Colombia, the blue land crab Cardisoma guanhumi faces two main threats: extraction and habitat loss. This project aims to show an approximation of the growth parameters of C. guanhumi in protected areas within the Magdalena department. Individuals were captured monthly from May to October 2016 in five localities in the Tayrona National Natural Park (PNNT) and the Salamanca Island Road Park (VIPIS). A total of 816 crabs were collected, each of which was measured, weighed, sexed and released. Both sexes showed a negative allometric length-to-weight ratio. Using the FiSAT II program's ELEFAN I routine, the size frequencies obtained were analyzed in order to determine the growth parameters for 1) the department, considering gender, and 2) the PNNT, where the data from VIPIS wasexcluded. The asymptotic carapace width was higher for males (109.16 mm) than for females (96.74 mm), but the growth coefficient (K) was higher for females (0.19 year-1) than for males (0.15 year-1). Growth performance indexes were similar: 3.252 for males and 3.250 for females. The FISAT II length converted catch curve routine was used to calculate the total (Z), natural (M), and fishing (F) mortalityrates, as 0.41, 0.36, and 0.05 year-1 respectively. The grow coefficient K was higher for the PNNT (0.29 year-1) than for the Magdalena department (0.15 year-1), thus, longevity was lower for the PNNT (tmax= 10.42 years) compared to the department (tmax= 20.06 years). Ingeneral terms, the C. guanhumi population in the study area is longevous, slow growing, with low extraction morality. The data obtained in this work are important in the management of this species, as its slow growth makes it vulnerable to overfishing.
Variación a largo término (2002-2016) en la densidad y composición del mesozooplancton indica cambio de régimen en isla Margarita (Venezuela)
Authors: Gomez Gaspar Alfredo
Published: September 2019

In the east of Margarita Island (Venezuela), the composition and density of mesozooplankton were studied for 15 years (2002 to 2016) in two fixed stations five miles from the coast. Samples (total 655) collected biweekly by hauls using net with a diameter of 1.7 m and a length of 3.5 m (mesh size of 400 microns) towed horizontally at a depth of 10 to 15 m for 20 minutes. The abundance of the main planktonic groups (21) was estimated by their density (ind/m3) by direct counting. In 13 groups: copepods, cladocerans, sergestoids Lucifer, brachyurans zoea, chaetognaths, mollusk larvae, cirripede larvae, penaeid mysis, pteropods and in the gelatinous plankton (salps,appendicularians, jellyfish, siphonophores) during the periods 2002-2004 and 2014-2016, lower values of annual density and representation were found, while in 2005-2013 the values were notoriously higher. The sardine eggs deviate from the indicated trend, since they were more abundant in years 2002-2004 and 2014-2016 and were lower in density between 2005 and 2013. This trend was more notable in its representation (%) in mesozooplankton. Due to the greater abundance of 13 zooplankton groups and their total density, it is confirmed that a regime shift occurred affecting ecosystem services such as sardine fishing, generating an approximately 10-year long crisis.