bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychological Pressure Distorts High Jumpers’ Perception of the Height of the Bar
Authors: Tanaka Yoshifumi , Sasaki Joyo , Karakida Kenta , Goto Kana , Tanaka Yufu M. , Murayama Takayuki
Published: April 2018

The effects of psychological pressure on perceiving the height of a jump bar just before starting a high jump run was investigated. University students (N = 14) training for a high jump event performed 15 trials (3 practice, 6 pressure, and 6 non-pressure) in counterbalanced order in their daily practice environment. The height of the bar was judged as significantly higher on pressure trials compared to non-pressure trials. A regression analysis indicated that participants who reported increased subjective perceived pressure tended to judge the bar to be higher. There was no significant difference between pressure and non-pressure trials for the performance index, defined as the success rate. This study provides the first evidence that environmental perceptions prior to executing a motor task under pressure may make performance of the task appear to be more difficult.
Colors of Autism Spectrum: A Single Paradigm Explains the Heterogeneity in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Lorincz Andras
Published: April 2018

We propose a theory of ASD as a condition of comorbid cognitive impairments that corrupt the learning, encoding, and manipulation of episodic and semantic memories. We consider (i) episodic and semantic memory functions of the entorhinal-hippocampal complex, (ii) constraints on the transfer and encoding of these memory components into neocortical areas, and (iii) the demands of cognitively manipulating memories in distributed computations being necessary for goal oriented interactions. In ASD, learning and cognitive challenges manifest in diverse ways but especially in high-complexity model predictive control tasks with latent variables. ASD impairments in social interactions represent a prototypical example. Social interactions are at the high end of complexity and require processes (i)–(iii) to work in a concerted fashion due to the need for the learning and estimation of many, sometimes latent, parameters, including emotions, intention, physical and mental capabilities as well as the predictive modeling of these parameters for decision making and timed-action series. We put forth the idea that autism is a result of an arbitrary combination of otherwise not prominent corruptions in processes (i)–(iii). Together, these corruptions may severely impair intelligence and slow down learning, especially in high complexity learning tasks. Over time, slow learning may spare the spontaneous learning-by-doing method - namely, repetitive behavioral patterns, whereas behavioral failures related to complex tasks can restrict interest in such task, thus inducing a fear of novelty; conversely, the fear of novelty restricts interest and can slow learning down. We embed our thoughts into a predictive autoencoding, goal-oriented model of a deterministic world. We compare this model to others, such as the noisy brain model, the Bayesian prior theory, the mirror neuron theory and the weak central coherence theory. We argue that the predictive autoencoder model of the deterministic world harmonizes with these other models and embraces them in a straightforward way.
Application of Demand Response Strategy in Optimal Configuration of a Standalone Wind-Solar-Battery System
Authors: Yuan Xiaoling , Huang Baole , Xu Jieyan , Liu Haoming , Yao Qingcheng
Published: April 2018

This study presents application of demand response strategy in a standalone wind-solar-battery hybrid energy system (HES). Inputs for the designed HES are wind speed, solar radiation, temperature and load demand which is variable with time. In this study, hourly values of meteorological data and hourly load demand are considered in one year. An improved gravitational search algorithm (IGSA) is used to optimize the configuration of the standalone wind-solar-battery hybrid power system. The optimal objectives of the system are cost of the system in life cycle, the loss of power supply probability（LPSP）and the energy excess percentage（EXC）.The effect of demand response on economic benefit and energy storage allocation of the standalone wind-solar-battery system is studied. The obtained optimal configuration of the proposed HES can provide minimal energy cost with excellent performance and reduced waste and unmet load.
Resonance Dipole-Dipole Interaction Between Two Accelerated Atoms in the Presence of a Reflecting Plane Boundary
Authors: Zhou Wenting , Passante Roberto , Rizzuto Lucia
Published: April 2018

We study the resonant dipole-dipole interaction energy between two uniformly accelerated identical atoms, one excited and the other in the ground state, prepared in a correlated Bell-type state, and interacting with the scalar field or the electromagnetic field nearby a perfectly reflecting plate. We suppose the two atoms moving with the same uniform acceleration, parallel to the plane boundary, and that their separation is constant during the motion. We separate the contributions of vacuum fluctuations and radiation reaction field to the resonance energy shift of the two-atom system, and show that Unruh thermal fluctuations do not affect the resonance interaction, which is exclusively related to the radiation reaction field. However, nonthermal effects of acceleration in the radiation-reaction contribution, beyond the Unruh acceleration-temperature equivalence, affect the resonance interaction energy. By considering specific geometric configurations of the two-atom system relative to the plate, we show that the presence of the mirror significantly modifies the resonance interaction energy between the two accelerated atoms. In particular, we find that new and different features appear with respect to the case of atoms in the free space, related to the presence of the boundary and to the peculiar structure of the quantum electromagnetic field vacuum in the locally inertial frame. Our results suggest the possibility to exploit the resonance interaction between accelerated atoms, as a probe for detecting the elusive effects of atomic acceleration on radiative processes.
Efficacy and Safety of Timolol-Dorzolamide Fixed-Combination Three Times a Day Versus Two Times a Day in Newly Diagnosed Open Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Pakravan Mohammad , Naderi Beni Afsaneh , Yazdani Shahin , Esfandiari Hamed
Published: April 2018

Purpose: To compare the therapeutic efficacy and safety of dorzolamide/timolol fixed-combination in newly diagnosed primary open angle glaucoma patients. Methods: In this prospective, interventional case series, newly diagnosed primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients that had not been treated for glaucoma were included. Patients were started on Cosopt twice a day (BID) for 1 month and then switched to three times a day (TDS) for additional 1 month. Patients underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examination, diurnal intraocular pressure (IOP), blood pressure (BP) and 24-hours heart rate (HR) measurements at baseline, month 1( BID), and month 2( TDS). IOP, systolic and diastolic pressures were measured at 8:00 AM,12:00 AM, 4:00 PM, 8:00 PM and 12:00 PM. Throughout the study, all adverse events were recorded and monitored by the investigators. Results: In 31 POAG patients that completed the study ,mean baseline IOP was 23.1±3.15 mmHg . IOP was decreased significantly 16.5 ± 2.21 at 1 month (P < 0.0001) and 13.9 ± 2.23 mmHg at 1 and 2 month follow up. (P < 0.0001) IOP was significantly lower in month 2 compared to month 1 (P = 0.0004). While Cosopt BID significantly reduced the mean 24-hour systolic BP and mean 24-hour HR from baseline (P < 0.0001), the mean 24-hour systolic BP and HR remained unchanged 2ith Cosopt TDS compared to BID (P = 0.62). Conclusions: Cosopt TDS has a superior IOP-lowering effect than Cosopt BID in POAG patients with comparable safety profile.                 
Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) of Upregulated Genes in Cocaine Addiction Reveals miRNAs as Potential Therapeutic Agents
Authors: Ahammad Ishtiaque
Published: April 2018

Cocaine addiction is a global health problem that causes substantial damage to the health of addicted individuals around the world. Dopamine synthesizing neurons in the brain play a vital role in the addiction to cocaine. But the underlying molecular mechanisms that help cocaine exert its addictive effect have not been very well understood. Bioinformatics can be a useful tool in the attempt to broaden our understanding in this area. In the present study, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was carried out on the upregulated genes from a dataset of Dopamine synthesizing neurons of post-mortem human brain of cocaine addicts. As a result of this analysis, 3 miRNAs have been identified as having significant influence on transcription of the upregulated genes. These 3 miRNAs hold therapeutic potential for the treatment of cocaine addiction.
Sınav Stresi Ölçeğinin Türkçeye Uyarlanması ve Ölçme Değişmezliğinin İncelenmesi
Authors: KARADUMAN Büşra , KİLMEN Sevilay
Published: April 2018

Bu araştırma kapsamında Sung ve Chao
(2015) tarafından geliştirilmiş olan Sınav Stresi Ölçeğinin (SSÖ) Türk
kültürüne uyarlaması yapılarak geçerlik ve güvenirlik çalışmaları yapılmakta ve
sınav stresine yönelik bir model test edilmektedir. Araştırmanın çalışma
grubunu 2016-2017 eğitim-öğretim döneminde Balıkesir ilinde bulunan fen lisesi,
anadolu lisesi, mesleki ve teknik anadolu lisesi ve sosyal bilimler
liselerinin  9., 10., 11. ve 12.
sınıflarında öğrenim görmekte olan toplam 1617 öğrenci oluşturmaktadır. İlk
aşamada doğrulayıcı faktör analizi ile ölçeğin üç faktörlü yapısının doğrulandığı
sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Araştırmanın ikinci aşamasında ise doğrulanan sınav
stresi modelinin cinsiyet, okul türü ve sınıf düzeyi alt gruplarında ölçme
değişmezliği incelenmiştir.  Sınav stresi
modelinin cinsiyet, okul türü ve sınıf düzeyi alt gruplarında tüm değişmezlik
aşamalarını sağladığı görülmüştür. Bu durum SSÖ’nün cinsiyet, okul türü ve
sınıf düzeyi alt gruplarında farklı düzeylerde geçerli ve güvenilir ölçümler
sağladığına işaret etmektedir.
Gestão de custos e resíduos na utilização de quimioterápicos antineoplásicos
Authors: Silva Bruna , Trombini Marina , Silva José Afonso
Published: April 2018

Objetivos: Mensurar o volume e o gasto correspondente dos resíduos de medicamentos antineoplásicos e discutir a gestão de resíduos, a fim de otimizar a utilização e diminuir custos com o desperdício. Métodos: Estudo transversal retrospectivo. Foram calculados os volumes dos resíduos de um grupo de medicamentos antineoplásicos e os custos desses resíduos, nos meses de maio a junho de 2015, com estabilidade físico-química igual ou inferior a 24 horas. As variáveis qualitativas foram citadas pela frequência e porcentagens. Resultados: Em dois meses foram descartados 46.646,43 mg de resíduos quimioterápicos. A gencitabina foi responsável por 34% desses resíduos. O valor referente a esses resíduos foi de R$ 171.708,28, sendo a oxaliplatina responsável por 35% do valor total das perdas. A previsão de economia gerada a partir de medidas como agendamento chega a 70% e 61% com a utilização de apresentações em dosagens menores, mais próximas das necessidades de consumo. Conclusões: O volume de resíduos gerado é elevado e tem custo significativo para a instituição. As medidas de gestão de resíduos como agendamento por patologia ou medicamento e o uso de mais apresentações de um mesmo fármaco são estratégias efetivas a curto e médio prazo para reduzir os gastos com os resíduos descartados.
More, Larger, Simpler: How Comparable Are On‐Farm and On‐Station Trials for Cultivar Evaluation?
Authors: Schmidt P. , Möhring J. , Koch R. J. , Piepho H.-P.
Published: April 2018

Traditionally, cultivar evaluation trials have been conducted as replicated small‐plot, on‐station trials at multiple locations and years. To this day, this is the method of choice for cultivar registration trials conducted by official federal institutes. Given a different purpose (e.g., marketing), cultivar evaluation may also be done as on‐farm trials with single replicates and fewer plots laid out as large strips. Such trials are often conducted at a larger number of locations. It is not clear how comparable these two trial systems are. Our objective therefore was to compare the precision and accuracy of these two systems using yield data from both on‐farm trials and from official on‐station trials for winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) across 8 yr. We set up multivariate mixed models to analyze the combined dataset of both trial systems and estimate heterogeneous variance components. Furthermore, based on 23 hybrid genotypes common to both datasets, we investigated the genetic correlation between systems and tested for genotype × system interaction effects. The results suggest that on‐farm trials are comparable with on‐station trials in terms of precision of a single plot, but that there are genotype × system interaction effects prohibiting the comparison of yield estimates for genotypes between systems. One potential explanation for this difference was identified as the system‐specific group effect of semidwarf vs. long‐strawed genotypes.
Genetic Structure, Core Collection, and Regeneration Quality in White Dent Corn Landraces
Authors: Porta Bettina , Condón Federico , Franco Jorge , Iriarte Wanda , Bonnecarrère Victoria , Guimaraens-Moreira Manuela , Vidal Rafael , Galván Guillermo A.
Published: April 2018

Genetic diversity and structure of plant germplasm collections, frequently determined by molecular markers, can be used to assist breeding programs, to validate core collections determined by other methodologies, to identify priority accessions for conservation, and to confirm genetic integrity after regeneration. This research aimed to study the genetic diversity and structure of the Uruguayan white dent maize collection, to evaluate the genetic representativeness of its core collection (previously defined by phenotypic traits), and to confirm the genetic integrity of seven regenerations made in Mexico and Uruguay in comparison with the original accessions. Ninety accessions were fingerprinted using 26 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Genetic structure was analyzed by Ward clustering, canonical analysis, and a Bayesian approach based on allelic frequencies. All SSR markers were polymorphic with a mean number of alleles (A) of 7.43, an effective allele number (Ae) of 3.04, and expected heterozygosity of 0.579. The genetic variation between accessions was 0.251, and variation within accessions was 0.749. Four genetic groups were obtained using the three approaches. The core collection represented the structure of the whole collection because the four genetic groups were proportionally represented. The genetic diversity in the core collection did not differ from the entire collection in A, Ae, expected heterozygosity (He) percentage of polymorphic loci (%P), and expected heterozygosity within accessions (Hs). Most regenerations (9 out of 14) preserved the genetic integrity of original accessions, whereas in other cases, either new or lost alleles caused genetic differences. The analysis of genetic structure and diversity of germplasm collections, in combination with morphological characterizations, helps to define ex situ conservation strategies and usage in breeding programs.
Predicting Physical and Chemical Properties of US Soils with a Mid‐Infrared Reflectance Spectral Library
Authors: Wijewardane Nuwan K. , Ge Yufeng , Wills Skye , Libohova Zamir
Published: April 2018

Core Ideas

A mid‐infrared spectral library containing 20,000+ samples was reported.

Twelve soil physical and chemical properties were predicted with MIR spectra.

ANN models performed better than PLSR for most soil properties.

Horizon and taxonomic order as auxiliary variables improved prediction for PLSR.

MIR library has the potential as an alternative to laboratory‐based analysis for OC and IC.

Mid‐infrared (MIR) reflectance spectroscopy is commonly studied as a rapid and nondestructive method for predictive soil analysis under laboratory conditions. The first objective of this paper is to report an MIR spectral library based on 20,000+ soil samples collected from the United States. The second objective is to assess, using partial least squares regression (PLSR) and artificial neural networks (ANN), the performance of the library to predict 12 physical and chemical soil properties: organic carbon (OC), inorganic carbon (IC), total carbon (TC), total nitrogen (TN), clay, silt, sand, Mehlich‐3 extractable phosphorus (P), NH4OAc extractable potassium (K), cation exchange capacity (CEC), total sulfur (TS), and pH. The third objective is to investigate whether the use of auxiliary variables of master horizon (HZ), taxonomic order (TAXON), and land use land cover (LULC) would improve MIR model performance. The results showed that OC, IC, TC, TN and TS were predicted most satisfactorily with R2 > 0.95 and RPD (ratio of performance to deviation) > 5.5. Soil CEC, pH, clay, silt, and sand were also predicted satisfactorily with R2 > 0.75 and RPD > 2.0. P and K were predicted poorly, with R2 < 0.4 and RPD < 1.4. The ANN models generally outperformed PLSR models, except for clay, silt and sand. Using auxiliary variables (HZ, TAXON, and LULC) to develop stratified models generally improved model performance. The HZ‐specific models showed the greatest improvements. Using an MIR spectral library for routine soil analysis would positively impact many modern applications where high spatial resolution, quantitative soil data are demanded.
The nexus between foreign direct investment and environmental sustainability in North Africa
Authors: Lazreg Marwa , Zouari Ezzeddine
Published: April 2018

This paper provides a study of the relationship between sustainable development and foreign direct investment (FDI) from an empirical point of view in the case of the North African countries during the period from 1985 to 2005. We use the cointegration test, the FMOLS (Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares) model and the Granger causality test to examine this relationship. According to the empirical results, we confirm the existence of a cointegration relationship between the different series studied in this paper. Based on the cointegration test we can use the error correction model. Also, to test the effect of FDI on sustainable development in the North African countries, we make an estimate by FMOLS method. We found that the foreign direct investment has a positive impact on CO2 emissions. Also, the Granger Causality test confirms the presence of a bidirectional relationship between FDI and CO2 emissions (Carbon dioxide). That is to say, the FDI can cause CO2 emissions and CO2 emissions can cause FDI based on the Granger causality.
Tree-ring based annual precipitation reconstruction for the southern Three-River Headwaters region, China
Authors: Xiao Dingmu , Huang Xiaomei , Qin Ningsheng
Published: April 2018

Tree-ring width standard chronologies were created from Juniperus przewalskii Kom data collected in the southern Three-River Headwaters (TRH) region. Statistical analysis results showed high correlation between the first primary component (PC1) of the four chronologies and instrumental precipitation records during the annual September–August interval. Precipitation of the region was reconstructed for the past 461 years. It was verified that the reconstruction model was stable by split-sample calibration-verification statistics. The reconstruction series revealed 22 extremely dry years and 9 extremely wet years. Results showed relatively dry periods occurred during 1567–1597, 1604–1614, 1641–1656, 1684–1700, 1734–1755, 1817–1830, 1913–1932, 1953–1971, 1990–2005. Relatively wet periods occurred during 1615–1630, 1657–1683, 1701–1733, 1756–1786, 1798–1816, 1844–1855, 1864–1875, 1885–1912, 1933–1952, 1977–1989. Comparison with tree-ring based precipitation reconstructions, and chronologies from surrounding areas provided a high degree of confidence in our reconstruction, and correlated well with the Monsoon Asia Drought Atlas (MADA) dataset in the public section of corresponding grids. The empirical mode decomposition analysis suggests the existence of significant periods with intervals of 2–5, 6–10, 11–18, and 28–60 years. This research contributes to a better understanding of historical variations in precipitation and will aid in future plans to address climate change of the TRH region.
One-step Solvothermal Synthesis of rGO/TiO2 Nanocomposite for Efficient Solar Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue Dye
Authors: Siong Valerie Ling Er , Lai Chin Wei , Juan Joon Ching , Lee Kian Mun , Leo Bey Fen , Khe Cheng Seong
Published: April 2018

Background:

The discharge of effluents from the textile and dyeing industries has been a
worldwide concern. Although reduced graphene oxide/titanium dioxide (rGO/TiO2) nanocomposite
is a potential candidate for wastewater treatment, the influence of graphene oxide (GO) content on its
physico-chemical characteristics and its subsequent photocatalytic capabilities in degrading the organic
contaminants has not been well established.

Objective:

The primary objective of this study was to assess the use of rGO/TiO2 nanocomposites
with various GO contents for the removal of toxic methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solution.

Method:

In the present study, rGO/TiO2 nanocomposites were fabricated using various GO contents
through a one-step solvothermal method. The effect of GO content on the nanocomposite formation
was investigated by using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron
microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. The resulting nanocomposites
were evaluated against MB degradation under artificial solar light illumination.

Results:

Based on the photocatalytic results, the highest removal percentage of MB was achieved by
0.15rGO/TiO2, which was about 1.7 times higher than that of 0.01rGO/TiO2.

Conclusion:

The enhanced removal efficiency of MB by the nanocomposite with the highest GO
content (0.15 g) was attributed to the increased active adsorption sites, which greatly promoted the π-
π interaction between the aromatic rings of MB dye and the graphitic skeleton of rGO, as well as the
electrostatic interaction between the cationic center of MB molecules and the residual oxygen functionalities
of rGO.
Primary Cutaneous Lymphomas; A review of a rare but diverse cutaneous tumour
Authors: E Imasogie D , A Azeke E
Published: April 2018

Title: Primary Cutaneous Lymphomas; University of Benin Teaching Hospital Experience Introduction: Primary cutaneous lymphomas (CLs) are a heterogeneous group of extra nodal non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) which are confined to the skin at diagnosis. The skin is the second most common site of extra nodal lymphoma. They are rare tumours accounting for 18% of cases of extra nodal NHL. The goal of this study is to determine the prevalence of primary cutaneous lymphomas at the University of Benin, Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, vis-a-vis reviewing the existing literature on the subject matter. Methodology: A 10-year retrospective study of primary CLs seen in UBTH from January 2004- December 2013. Skin biopsies were received fixed in 10% formalin in the laboratory unit of the Department of Morbid Anatomy, UBTH, processed in paraffin wax, sectioned and stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin. Histology slides were retrieved, studied and lesions characterized. Result: There were 375 cases of histologically diagnosed cutaneous tumours. The ages of the patients in this study ranged from 1 to 111 years. Their mean age was 38.32 years (SD = 19.38. There were 192 females (51.2%) and 183 males (48.8%) giving a female to male ratio of 1.05:1. Keratinocytic tumours were the most common lesions seen. There was no case of primary cutaneous lymphoma seen in this study giving a prevalence of 0%. Discussion: Primary CLs are rare tumours. Previous studies in Nigeria and Ghana like the index study did not report a case of CLs. This is unlike the report from Lagos, Nigeria where CLs have been reported. So by extension, although CLs are rare we should not foreclose the possibility of finding isolated cases in our environment. Conclusion: We align with the submission of Bradford et al that further investigations using large populations and molecular tools are warranted to elucidate the aetiology of the diverse spectrum of CLs. Despite this, we trust without prejudice that case reports and institutional base studies as invaluable means in the gathering of data, especially for rare tumours like CLs.
Effects of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Mucuna pruriens in rats intoxicated with lead acetate
Authors: I Eze G , K Oriakhi , J Owolabi O , O Innih S
Published: April 2018

Mucuna pruriens (velvet beans) is an unconventional legume commonly found in the tropical regions of Africa with several ethnomedicinal uses. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of aqueous extract of Mucuna pruriens leaves in rats intoxicated with lead acetate. Thirty rats were divided into six groups (five rats per group). Group I (control group) was given distilled water only, group II was intoxicated with lead acetate (100 mg/kg) only, group III was administered M. pruriens extract (600 mg/kg) only daily for a period of 28 days, while groups IV, V and VI animals were co-administered M. pruriens extractat at different concentrations of 300, 600 and 1200 mg/kg body weight daily for 28 days. After 28 days of experiment, the animals where sacrificed. Blood samples were collected for some biochemical parameters and organs harvested for histology. The results showed that there were no significant differences in direct bilirubin, total protein, albumin and globulin, but significant increase (P˂0.05) in ALT after 28 days of intoxication with lead acetate when compared with the control. However there was no significant difference in ALP activities. Administration of aqueous extract of M. pruriens leaves at a dose of 600 mg/kg body weight for 28 days showed a significant increase (P˂0.05) in direct bilirubin, total protein, albumin, globulin, AST andALT, but significantly reduced ALP activities. Co-administration of the crude aqueous extract (300, 600 and 1200 mg/kg), did not show any ameliorating effect after 28 days when compared to rats intoxicated with lead acetate, but showed mild reduction in ALP activities with no significant changes in ALT and AST activities. Mucuna pruriens extract did not posses ameliorative effect in rats intoxicated with lead acetate, but showed potentials of resolving anaemia from the histopathological result.
The Prevalence of Melanocytic Naevi at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital
Authors: E Imasogie D , A Azeke T
Published: April 2018

Introduction:

Melanocytic naevi are benign melanocytic tumours. Some of them may progress to malignant melanoma that has an enormous and ever increasing clinical and economical importance with a high mortality rate. Despite this association, we noticed a dearth of data of benign melanocytic tumoursin Nigeria. This aim of this study is to determine the prevalence, age and sex distribution of benign melanocytic tumours in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital,(UBTH).

Methodology:

This was a retrospective study which was carried out over a ten-year period in UBTH between January 2004 and December 2013. All cases of benign melanocytic tumoursdiagnosed histologically during the period under review were collated. Histology slides were retrieved, reviewed and the diagnosis recorded against the corresponding patient’s name on a data spread sheet. The data obtained from this study was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 16 (SPSS 16, SPSSInc. Chicago, Illinois, United States of America.

Result: There were 17 cases of melanocytic naevi seen over the study period giving a prevalence of 4.5% of skin tumours. The mean age for the development of melanocytic naeviin this study was 32.71 years (SD = 22.64) and a peak in the 2nd decade. A female preponderance with a bimodal peak age, in the 2nd and 3rd decades was observed.

Conclusion: There is a low prevalence rate of melanocytic naevi in our own environment, unlike in the Caucasians of Australian nationality. The differential exposure to high level of UV radiationis key to this observation.
Perceptions of the Diabetes Online Community’s Credibility, Social Capital, and Help and Harm: Cross-Sectional Comparison Between Baby Boomers and Younger Adults (Preprint)
Authors: Litchman Michelle L , Edelman Linda S
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

The use of online health communities such as the diabetes online community (DOC) is growing. Individuals who engage in the DOC are able to interact with peers who have the same medical condition. It is not known if older adults are perceiving the DOC differently compared with younger adults.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to explore and understand how the DOC is perceived in terms of social capital, source credibility, and help and harm. The findings from this study will shed light on how users of different age groups (baby boomers and younger adult counterparts) perceive DOC use.

METHODS

This study represents a subset of participants from a larger study of DOC users. Baby boomers and younger adults with diabetes were recruited from the DOC to participate in a cross-sectional survey. Demographics, electronic health use (reasons to join the DOC, DOC intensity, DOC engagement, internet social capital, and help or harm from the DOC), source credibility, health-related quality of life, and diabetes self-care data were collected. We examined the differences between baby boomer and younger adult responses.

RESULTS

The participants included baby boomers (N=76) and younger adult counterparts (N=102). Participants scored their diabetes health care team (mean 33.5 [SD 8]) significantly higher than the DOC (mean 32 [SD 6.4]) with regard to competence (P<.05) and trustworthiness (diabetes health care team mean 36.3 [SD 7.1]; DOC mean 33.6 [SD 6.2]; P<.001). High bonding and bridging social capital correlated with high DOC intensity (r=.629; P<.001 and r=.676; P<.001, respectively) and high DOC engagement (r=.474; P<.01 and r=.507; P≤.01, respectively). The greater majority (69.8%) reported the DOC as being helpful, and 1.8% reported that the DOC had caused minor harm. Baby boomers perceived DOC credibility, social capital, help, and harm similarly to their younger adult counterparts.

CONCLUSIONS

Baby boomers are using and perceiving the DOC similarly to younger adults. DOC users find the DOC to be credible; however, they scored their health care team higher with regard to competence and trustworthiness. The DOC is beneficial with low risk and may augment current diabetes care.
The DEVELOPMENT OF Elaeidobius kamerunicus FAUST POPULATION AFTER INTRODUCTION AND THE IMPROVEMENT OF OIL PALM FRUIT SET IN SERAM ISLAND, MOLLUCAS, INDONESIA
Authors: Prasetyo Agus Eko , Susanto Agus
Published: April 2018

Elaeidobius kamerunicus is the main pollinating agent in oil palm plantations in Indonesia today. The development of oil palm plantations in new areas requires introduction of these insects, moreover the new areas are located on different islands. First introduction of Elaeidobius kamerunicus Faust had been done from North Sumatra to Seram Island on 23 September 2013. The introduction was performed on larva and pupa stadium in 4-5 days post anthesising of male inflorescences. The introduction of E. kamerunicus using plywood boxes has an average risk of death by 7.89% at 6 days delivery period. Observation before releasing of the weevils showed that this insect was not detected in both of oil palm male and female flowers and the oil palm fruit set was very low approximately 11.27%. For about 500 weevils/ha were released in Marnuhu estate and could be developed into 362,401 weevils/ha in 5 months with 97.86% of oil palm sex ratio. The oil palm fruit sets were increased after 1 and 2 months introduction, 53.70% and 75.56 %, respectively. The lower sex ratio of oil palm or the more availability of male inflorescences make growth of E. kamerunicus population became faster and the greater number of weevils that visiting anthesising of female flowers make the higher value of oil palm fruit set.
The SUSPECT SYMPTOMS OF INBREEDING DEPRESSION AND THE HOMOZYGOSITY LEVEL OF FOURTH GENERATION OF SP450T AND FIFTH GENERATION OF DURA DELI OIL PALM SELFING POPULATION
Authors: Faizah Rokhana , Wening Sri , Rahmadi Hernawan Yuli , Purba Abdul Razak
Published: April 2018

Inbreeding is a common method used to reproduce candidate mother plant from selected parental lines for commercial seeds in Reciprocal Recurrent Selection (RRS) oil palm breeding program. However this practice may increased homozigosity level of selected population. This study concerned the level of homozygosity of SP540T fourth generations and Dura Deli Dolok Sinumbah fifth generations (3 crosses respectively) and their correlation with inbreeding depression symptoms. Polymerase Chain Reaction-Simple Sequence Repeat (PCR-SSR) with 16 markers developed for oil palm was used to analyze 327 samples. The result shows that the levels of homozigosity of SP540T fourth selfing generation were ranged between 0.44-0.84 or 0.61 in average. While the levels of homozygosity of Dura Deli fifth selfing generations were ranged between 0.60-0.93 or 0.78 in average. The homozygosity level in Dura Deli was 1.27% higher than SP540T populations. Correlation analysis showed that the higher the level of homozygosity, the higher of the inbreeding symptoms 2 observed (R =0.95).
GENETIC TRACEABILITY OF OIL PALM PROGENIES (Elaeis guineensis JACQ.) USING SIMPLE SEQUENCE REPEAT (SSR)
Authors: Faizah Rokhana , Wening Sri , Yenni Yurna , Sujadi Sujadi
Published: April 2018

Progenies traceability status becomes an important activity in the oil palm breeding program, especially to obtain propriety of individual and progenies population with their parents. This study is concerned to analyze genetic traceability based on pattern and allele size of their parent using Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers. There were 90 palms from 7 progenies populations in the AD02S, AD03S Adolina and MA22S Marihat Estate PT. Perkebunan Nusantara IV used in this research. Leaf and pollen samples were used to get genomic DNA. Then, DNA genomic was amplified using multiplexing method of 8 SSR markers and fluorescence labels of 6-FAM, HEX, and NED. Fragment analysis and extracted genotype data was obtained using Gene Marker® versi 2.4.0 Soft Genetics® LLC program. Genetic traceability analysis was based on alelle segregation pattern of Mendelian Law. The results described inappropriate alleles 4 individuals from 3 progenies (N, P, and S). Those individuals were palmrow of 22-30 in the AD02S; 29-27 in the MA22S; 9-22 and 9-28 in the AD02S. Other 4 progenies showed an appropriate segregation of genotype with their parents, which are crosses number of M, Q, R, and O.
RETENTION OF CAROTENE AND RETINYL PALMITATE IN PALM COOKING OIL AND THE PRODUCTS FRIED IN THE OIL
Authors: Hasibuan Hasrul Abdi
Published: April 2018

Fortification of vitamin A in the cooking oil needs to be revisited given that the used oil is palm oil and fortificant form of vitamin A or retinol palmitate have to be imported. On the other hand, palm oil contains carotene as pro-vitamin A and potentially as an alternative of fortificant. The aim of this study was to compare the retention of carotene to retinol palmitate in palm cooking oil and the products fried in the oil using deep frying at 150°C. Materials used as fried products were potatoes, tofu and chicken. The quality of cooking oil that determined were the fatty acid composition, water content, free fatty acid, peroxide value, color, retention of carotene and retinol palmitate. While the quality of the products fried in the oil that determined were water, fat, carotene and retinol palmitate content. The results of this study showed that fortificant (carotene and retinol palmitate) no significant difference to the quality of cooking oil except color, retention of carotene and retinol palmitate. Fortificants also showed no significant difference to the quality of fried products. Retention of carotene showed significantly decreased with increasing frying repeatedly, but had a higher retention and significantly different than retinol palmitate. Retention of carotene in the frying pan first, second, third, fourth and fifth were in the range of 86-89%, 83-89%, 80-83%, 77-80% and 77-80%, while retinol palmitate were 68-100%, 58-97%, 51-89%, 50-84%, and 40-75%. Thus, carotene can be used as an alternative of fortificant in the palm cooking oil.
GENETIC VARIABILITY IN FATTY ACID AND BETA CAROTENE CONTENT OF 24 ACCESSIONS CAMEROON GERMPLASM OF IOPRI COLLECTION
Authors: Sujadi Sujadi , Hasibuan Hasrul Abdi , Purba Abdul Razak , Lubis Mahmud Irvan
Published: April 2018

Twenty four Cameroon accessions have been planted in Adolina oil palm seed garden area in 2010 and have been analyzed their fatty acid, iodine value and beta carotene contents to reveal their genetic variability. Analysis of variance results for fatty acid, iodine value and beta carotene content characters show that there are significant differences for palmitat, stearat, oleat, linoleat acid, iodine value and beta carotene content. Fatty acid content, iodine value and beta carotene content showed medium to high broad sense variability which verify that there is a high genetic impact of these characters. Ten Cameroon accessions with beta carotene content more than 1.000 ppm have been identified and can be used as future breeding material for IOPRI in gaining new varieties with beta carotene content more than 1.000 ppm. In addition there is one accession showed iodine value more than 57.1 Wijs which has a potential used as crossing material in obtaining new superior varieties which have high iodine values. In outline there are negative correlation( in one side) between palmitat acid with stearat, oleat acid and iodine value in other side.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF FUNGICIDES AGAINST FUNGAL ISOLATES CARRIED BY OIL PALM SEEDS
Authors: Simanjuntak Donnarina , Faizah Rokhana , Prasetyo Agus Eko , Susanto Agus
Published: April 2018

Oil palm seed is known to bring some pathogenic microbes and reduce the quality of seeds. Research aims to determine the effectiveness of fungicide active ingredients and later as a recommendation fungicide to control fungal isolates carried by oil palm seeds. Research were conducted in the Plant Protection laboratory, IOPRI business unit of Marihat, from April to October 2016. Research using descriptive analysis of seeds and seed health testing methods used consisted of visual observation of seeds and washing test. Seeds obtained from six production sites namely derpericarping, seed selection, first immersion, first winding, germination chamber, and distribution of germinated seed. The fungicides used consist of 39 different types of active ingredients. From the results of seed health testing there are three fungi carried by seeds that have been isolated, ie Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Mucor. These three fungi were further tested against 39 types of fungicides and the result there are 13 to 18 of fungicides that are effective to suppress the growth rate of the three fungi until the seventh day after the application.
APPLICATION OF OIL PALM EMPTY FRUIT BUNCH FIBERS IN STRENGTH IMPROVEMENT AS A FIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE
Authors: Lydiasari Henny , Manalu Ari Yusman , Karolina Rahmi
Published: April 2018

The potency of oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFB) fibers as one of the by-products of processing oil palm is increasing significantly so that proper management is needed in reducing environmental impact. One of the utilization of OPEFB fibers is as a substitution material in construction which usually the material is derived from non-renewable mining materials so that the number is increasingly limited. Therefore, it is necessary to study to know the performance of OPEFB fiber in making construction products especially concrete. In this case, the experiment was conducted using experimental method with variation of fiber addition by 0%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30%. Each specimen was tested by weight, slump value, compressive strength, tensile strength, elasticity and crack length. As the results, the variation of fibers addition by 10%, decrease of slump value is 7%, concrete weight is 3% and crack length is 8% while increase of the compressive strength is 2.7% and the modulus of elasticity is 33.3% but its tensile strength decreased insignificantly by 0.05% . Furthermore, the addition of fibers above 10% to 30% decreased compressive strength is still below 10% and tensile strength below 2% while the weight of concrete, slump value and crack length decreased. Therefore, the addition of 10% can replace the performance of concrete without fiber but the addition of above 10% can still be used on non-structural concrete.
Conhecimento Pedagógico-Computacional do professor de Matemática
Authors: Piton-Gonçalves Jean , Lamonato Maiza
Published: April 2018

Este artigo trata do Conhecimento Pedagógico-Computacional, queé o conhecimento subjacente ao processo de ensino mediado por software educacional. Resultados mostram que os conhecimentos que se constituem entre o que o professor conhece sobre o conteúdo que pretende ensinar e aquele que é construído quando o mesmo utiliza um software educacional são: (i) conteúdo específico, (ii) pedagógico do conteúdo, (iii) curricular e (iv) computacional.
JOGOS ELETRÔNICOS E EDUCAÇÃO: NOTAS SOBRE A APRENDIZAGEM EM AMBIENTES INTERATIVOS
Authors: Cristine do Amarante Matos Elaine , Angelo Santos Lima Michell
Published: April 2018

Os jogos eletrônicos são artefatos digitais que proporcionam entretenimento à maioria das crianças e jovens atualmente. Além de momentos de lazer, estes artefatos proporcionam aprendizados que podem ser úteis para o ambiente escolar na facilitação do processo de ensino e aprendizagem. Nesse sentido, considerando a abrangência da cultura digital na sociedade e a necessidade das práticas pedagógicas acompanharem estes avanços, este trabalho tem como objetivo discutir as potencialidades do uso de games como ambientes interativos para melhoria da aprendizagem de conteúdos escolares. Para tanto, embasamos nossas discussões nas teorias de aprendizagem de Vygotsky e Piaget. Utilizar os games em ambientes de aprendizagem é uma alternativa viável considerando a organização cognitiva dos indivíduos inseridos na cultura digital.
Uso e apropriações de recursos da tecnologia como elemento flexibilização no ensino-aprendizagem de geografia
Authors: Smaniotto Barin Claudia , Machado Ellensohn Ricardo , Palma Botega Márcia
Published: April 2018

Constitui-se como foco investigativo deste artigo o uso e a apropriação de recursos tecnológicos como elemento de flexibilização do ensino-aprendizagem de geografia. O trabalho foi desenvolvido na disciplina de “Ensino e Aprendizagem de Geografia e Produção de Mídias”. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, do tipo pesquisa-ação, considerando como sujeitos 77 estudantes, sendo que a maioria destes já atua como docente. O instrumento de coleta de dados adotado foi um questionário contendo questões abertas e fechadas. Os resultados apontam que os recursos tecnológicos (vídeos, Google Earth, internet, etc.) têm sido usados de forma significativa flexibilizando o aprendizado e configurando novas ecologias cognitivas.
METODOLOGIA DE AVALIAÇÃO: ANÁLISE DA QUALIDADE DE APLICATIVOS EDUCACIONAIS PARA MATEMÁTICA DO ENSINO MÉDIO
Authors: Gomes da Silva Monielle , Cristina Freitas Batista Silvia
Published: April 2018

Muitos aplicativos para dispositivos móveis estão sendo desenvolvidos para matemática. No entanto, é fundamental que esses recursos sejam avaliados, pois nem sempre possuem características adequadas. Nesse sentido, um instrumento que auxilie o professor de matemática na escolha de um aplicativo mais apropriado aos seus objetivos pedagógicos é importante. Assim, este trabalho apresenta uma metodologia de avaliação de qualidade para aplicativos educacionais que permitam o estudo de tópicos matemáticos do Ensino Médio. A metodologia contempla aspectos sobre documentação, usabilidade/questões operacionais, questões pedagógicas e conteúdos matemáticos e permite obter um percentual geral de adequação do aplicativo aos critérios avaliados. Três testes foram promovidos e, por meio destes, a metodologia foi aprimorada até a obtenção de uma versão considerada adequada ao seu propósito.
O perfil dos alunos do curso técnico em secretaria escolar ofertado à distância: uma abordagem sobre as atividades virtuais
Authors: Hideyuki Yokoyama Marcos , Silva Areão Andreza , Nogueira Luz Bruno
Published: April 2018

A Educação a Distância (EaD) é uma modalidade de ensino que consegue efetivar o processo de ensino-aprendizagem sem a obrigatoriedade de horários fixos e nem de encontros presenciais. Este artigo discute o perfil dos alunos do curso técnico em secretaria escolar de uma instituição federal de ensino do estado de São Paulo, de acordo com as preferências em relação às ferramentas virtuais de aprendizagem. A pesquisa foi realizada com 235 estudantes que foram agrupados em três grupos distintos: antenados, humanoides e independentes. A principal contribuição desse trabalho é discutir estratégias de ensino que melhor atendam às necessidades de cada grupo de aluno.
Uso de mineração de textos no apoio à compreensão textual
Authors: Epstein Daniel , Reategui Eliseo
Published: April 2018

Ler e escrever uma pequena frase já foi suficiente para que uma pessoa seja considerada alfabetizada. Atualmente, alfabetização é um processo mais complexo que simplesmente ser capaz de ler e escrever frases esparsas; também é importante entender o que está sendo lido e escrito, além de poder utilizar essa informação. Essa nova definição de alfabetização nem sempre é obtida através das abordagens tradicionais de ensino. A falta de letramento afeta não apenas o rendimento escolar dos alunos, mas também suas relações pessoais e profissionais. Neste trabalho é proposto o uso de um minerador de textos chamado Sobek como ferramenta de apoio à compreensão textual. O minerador identifica os conceitos mais relevantes de um texto, as relações entre esses conceitos e apresenta os resultados em uma visualização de grafo. Um estudo acerca da capacidade de extração de informaçõoes do Sobek é apresentado.
REALIDADE AUMENTADA NO DESENVOLVIMENTO DE JOGOS EDUCACIONAIS: UM ESTUDO DE CASO DE UM JOGO DE LÍNGUA INGLESA
Authors: S. Panegalli Felipe , C. Cagliari Diane , Bernardi Giliane , Z. Cordenonsi Andre , M. Mallmann Elena
Published: April 2018

A educação vem sendo construída e reconstruída constantemente como uma tentativa de desenvolver novas formas de aprendizagem. Uma dessas tentativas é a Realidade Aumentada (RA) que tem se tornado amplamente utilizada para proporcionar a interação com o mundo virtual através do mundo real, ou seja, objetos ou informações virtuais sendo utilizados no mundo real. Uma vez que a utilização da RA torna-se viável, pode-se estimular e potencializar o aprendizado dos alunos visto que, além de ser atrativa, a tecnologia desperta a curiosidade dos estudantes mais jovens. Por essa razão, este estudo tem por objetivo discutir a utilização de realidade aumentada no desenvolvimento de jogos educacionais tridimensionais para o apoio ao ensino e aprendizagem de cores em Língua Inglesa através da Realidade Aumentada e como integrar o Vuforia SDK no Unity3D
Um modelo conceitual para a gamificação de Ambientes Virtuais de Aprendizagem
Authors: Carolina Tomé Klock Ana , Felipe da Cunha Lucas , Gasparini Isabela
Published: April 2018

Esse artigo apresenta um modelo conceitual para auxiliar na implementação da gamificação em ambientes virtuais de aprendizagem, observando os dados envolvidos, as tarefas disponíveis, os alunos que utilizam e os objetivos da gamificação. São levantadas diferentes características dos alunos que podem influenciar no sucesso da gamificação e frameworks existentes que auxiliam a fundamentar o modelo proposto. Por fim, o modelo proposto é aplicado a um ambiente virtual de aprendizagem.