bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiological data and a score-based study of renal, hepatic and cerebral lesions in feline infectious peritonitis
Authors: Oliveira Thalita Evani Silva de , Di Santis Giovana Wingeter , Headley Selwyn Arligton
Published: October 2017

The study describes the epidemiological and pathological findings observed in a population of cats with feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and estimated the degree of tissue destruction in the kidney, brain, and liver. A retrospective study was performed to determine the number of cats with a histopathological diagnosis of FIP between 2005-2016, at the Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Universidade Estadual de Londrina. The histopathological alterations in selected organs (brain, liver and kidneys) associated with FIP were described and then compared with a scoring system to estimate the degree of tissue destruction. FIP was diagnosed in 3.7% (19/520) of all cats necropsied during the 11-year period; sexual and breed predominance were not identified. Cats that were less than one-year-old were more frequently diagnosed with FIP. Pyogranulomatous nephritis with vasculitis (94.7%; 18/19), coagulative renal necrosis (84.2%; 16/19), hepatocellular necrosis (57.9; 11/19), and necrotizing leptomeningitis (47.4%; 9/19) were the most frequent lesions observed. Moreover, FIP-associated renal lesions were more severe and frequently observed when compared with those in the brain and liver. It is proposed that necrosis be considered as an important lesion associated with FIP that should be included in the histopathological diagnosis of this disease.
Effect of Flunixin Meglumine administration on seminal characteristics of male sheep and goat
Authors: Vieira Neto Maurício Francisco , Rodrigues Inti Campos Salles , Leles Jaqueline Da Silva , Araújo Érica Pinto de , Viana Neto Aderson Martins , Carvalho Felipe Viana de , Salles Maria Gorete Flores , Araújo Airton Alencar de
Published: October 2017

Testicular degeneration is a multifactorial process increasing the concentration of prostaglandins in seminal plasma. Both increase and decrease of these hormones tend to promote loss of seminal quality. Flunixin meglumine is a potent anti-inflammatory drug capable of modulating the production of prostaglandins and is widely used in female reproduction. However, it is rarely used in males with the same objective. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of this drug on seminal quality of male lambs and goats with spermatic characteristics unfavorable for reproduction. To this end, a total of 15 breeding animals were evaluated, of which six goats and four sheep with poor seminal quality were selected according to the criteria established by the Brazilian College of Animal Reproduction (CBRA). Three semen samples were collected from each animal. Then, the flunixin meglumine treatment was initiated and ejaculates were collected at two different periods after the drug was administered (from day 21 until day 35 and from day 49 to day 63). Macroscopic and microscopic parameters were assessed in semen samples and scrotal circumference and percentages of sperm pathologies were measured and compared between the three periods. Data with normal distribution were analyzed using ANOVA at 5% probability, and comparisons between periods within the same species were performed using the Tukey test. An improvement was observed in the analyses of mass motility, percentage motility, and sperm vigor. Scrotal circumference had no variation. Concerning sperm pathologies, an increase in the number of normal spermatozoids was observed due to a significant reduction in minor and major defects, and the latter remained low even after the treatment was finished. Therefore, flunixin meglumine presented beneficial effects on seminal parameters of male goats and lamb with unfavorable spermatic characteristics. These findings indicate this drug may be used in the treating of males with testicular injuries or of breeders with reduced seminal quality due to advanced age.
Beef cattle production in established integrated systems
Authors: Gamarra Érick Lemes , Morais Maria Da Graça , Almeida Roberto Giolo de , Paludetto Natália Aguiar , Pereira Mariana , Oliveira Caroline Carvalho de
Published: October 2017

The aim of the current study is to assess three integrated systems presenting different eucalyptus tree densities due to animal and forage production. The following integrated systems were assessed: crop-livestock-forest with 357 eucalyptus trees ha-1 (ICLF1); crop-livestock-forest with 227 eucalyptus trees ha-1 (ICLF2); and crop-livestock with 5 remnant native trees ha-1 (ICL). The randomized block experimental design was applied in a split-plot scheme with four replicates. The Average Daily Gain (ADG, g animal-1day-1) and the live-weight gain per area (LWG, kg ha-1) were applied to analyze animal performance, which was set by weighing the animals every 28 days (the animals previously fasted for 16h). Forage yield was higher in ICL during fall and winter; in summer, it did not differ from ICLF2. There was no forage yield difference between the ICL and ICLF2 systems in any of the assessed seasons; summer was more productive in ILPF1 than other seasons. The highest leaf crude protein contents (CP) in summer was recorded in systems ICLF1 and ICLF2, and the highest value recorded in fall was found in ILPF1; the lowest was found in ILP. On the other hand, the highest leaf NDF contents in summer were found in ILP. The highest ADG were found in summer. The highest LWG values recorded for the ICL and ICLF2 systems were collected in summer and fall; there was no difference in any of the three systems in winter. The LWG was higher in all system in summer. The ICLF2 emerged as the system (with trees) most appropriate for beef cattle production. Despite the shading interference on forage production, such condition is compensated by the best nutritional contents such as CP. The ICLF2 system allowing an annual LWG of 83% in relation to the ICL system during the fifth year of establishment of the systems.
Correlations of the feeding behavior of lambs fed diets containing pearl millet silage with addition of urea
Authors: Rodrigues Thomaz Cyro Guimarães de Carvalho , Carvalho Gleidson Giordano Pinto de , Araújo Gherman Garcia Leal de , Santos Edson Mauro , Freitas Poliane Meire Dias de , Freitas Júnior José Esler De , Araújo Fabiana Lana de , Perazzo Alexandre Fernandes
Published: October 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate correlations among the feeding behavior, intake, in vitro digestibility and production parameters of feedlot-finished lambs. Thirty-two male uncastrated mixed-breed lambs with an average initial live weight of 17.39 ± 2.16 kg were distributed into four treatments (diets) with eight replicates (animals) each, as a function of their weight, in a completely randomized block design. Diets were composed of pearl millet silage with addition of levels of urea (0, 2, 4, and 6%, DM basis), ground corn, soybean meal, and a mineral mixture. The experimental period was 62 days, consisting of 10 days of adaptation and 52 days of data collection. Positive correlations were observed (P < 0.05) for rumination time and feeding efficiency in dry matter with the intakes of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), organic matter (OM), and non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC). Negative correlations were detected (P < 0.05) between rumination efficiency in NDF and the intakes of DM, EE, NDF, OM, and NFC. Correlations were negative (P < 0.05) between the number of chews per cud and the digestibilities of DM, NDF, NFC, and TDN. The number of chews per day was negatively correlated (P < 0.05) with the digestibility of NDF and with TDN. Rumination time had a positive correlation (P < 0.05) with average daily gain (ADG) and feed efficiency (FE). Feeding efficiency in DM was positively correlated (P < 0.05) with ADG and FE, whereas rumination efficiency in NDF was negatively correlated with ADG and positively with feed conversion. The increase in feeding efficiency for dry matter generated positive effects on nutrient intake, weight gain, and feed efficiency of the lambs fed diets containing pearl millet silage with addition of urea.
Analysis of the potentiality haying of native forage species in semiarid region
Authors: Leão Enoque De Sousa , Torreão Jacira Neves da Costa , Araújo Marcos Jácome de , Bezerra Leilson Rocha , Marques Carlo Aldrovandi Torreão , Ferreira Raimundo Ribeiro , Nascimento Romilda Rodrigues do , Leandro Bárbara Silveira , Edvan Ricardo Loiola
Published: October 2017

The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential hay production from Spiny Amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus), Hairy Woodrose (Merremia aegyptia), Malva (Sida galheirensis), Mucuna (Mucuna pruriens) and Ervanço (Froelichia humboldtiana), native forage species of the semiarid region of Brazil by observing morphological components of the plant, such as the dehydration curve, crude protein loss (CPL) curve, chemical composition of plant and hay and hay degradability in situ. There were differences (P < 0.05) among species on leaf, stem and inflorescence quantification with Ervanço, Hairy Woodrose, and Mucuna having a greater number of leaves. There was a linearly increasing response for the dehydration curve of the five forage plants species. Mucuna forage had the greatest hay point at 800 g kg-1 dried matter (DM) after 11.8 hours and Woodrose had a lower dehydration efficiency, which required 25 hours of sun exposure. There was no difference in CPL. Mucuna had the lowest crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) content, 8.4, 67.7 and 73.8 g kg DM-1 in hay in relation to the plant, respectively. Ervanço, Spiny Amaranth, Hairy Woodrose and Malva hay had more of soluble fraction “a” of DM of 31.0, 26.2, 22.1 and 9.7 g kg-1 DM than Mucuna, respectively. Spiny Amaranth and Malva hay had values of 335.4 and 193.2 g kg-1 DM of fraction “b” more than Ervanço hay, respectively. For fraction “a’’ of CP, Spiny Amaranth and Hairy Woodrose hay obtained 312.6 and 227.4 g kg-1 CP more than that observed for Malva, respectively. Mucuna had better hay potential among the forage studied in the semiarid region of Brazil.
Paraoxonase activity in the serum of peripartum dairy cows with different placental lactogen concentrations
Authors: Rohenkohl Marina Menoncin Weschenfelder , Lopes Matheus Gomes , Barbosa Antônio Amaral , Krause Ana Rita Tavares , Montagner Paula , Schwegler Elizabeth , Brauner Cássio Cassal , Schneider Augusto , Schmitt Eduardo , Del Pino Francisco Augusto Burkert , Corrêa Márcio Nunes
Published: October 2017

The action of the bovine placental lactogen (bPL) hormone on maternal metabolism is still poorly known. Some markers, such as the acute phase protein paraoxonase (PON1), are used as indicators of liver function and help to determine the metabolic condition during the transition period in dairy cows. The aim of this study was to evaluate the activity of paraoxonase (PON1) in the serum of peripartum dairy cows with different levels of bPL. Based on the plasma bPL concentration, 18 cows were divided equally into three groups: LOW ( < 2,68 ng bPL mL-1), MEDIUM (2,68–2,80 ng bPL mL-1), and HIGH ( > 2,80 ng bPL mL-1). The experiment was conducted between 21 days prepartum and 28 days postpartum. Serum samples were collected during the experiment for the determination of bPL concentrations and PON1 activity. The bPL concentration was significantly different between the experimental groups (P ? 0,0001) and the days of serum collection (P ? 0,0001). In the prepartum dairy cows, the PON1 levels were different between the groups (P ? 0,05) and the days of serum collection (P ? 0,05). Cows with high bPL concentration had lower serum PON1 activity (P ? 0,05), while cows with low hormone levels had higher enzyme activity (P ? 0,05). In the postpartum period, there was a significant difference between the days of serum collection (P ? 0,0001) and the interaction between groups and collections (P ? 0,01). The group with high concentrations of bPL had lower levels of PON1 (P ? 0,01), while the group with low bPL maintained higher concentrations of PON1 (P ? 0,01). It was concluded that the cows with higher concentrations of bPL in the prepartum period present a reduction in the serum activity of the PON1 enzyme during the peripartum period.
Leg tissue composition and physico-chemical parameters of sheep meat fed annatto coproduct
Authors: Lima Júnior Dorgival Morais de , Carvalho Francisco Fernando Ramos de , Maciel Maria Inês Sucupira , Urbano Stela Antas , Oliveira Juliana Paula Felipe de , Rangel Adriano Henrique do Nascimento
Published: October 2017

Our objective was to evaluate leg tissue composition and physico-chemical quality parameters of sheep meat fed with increasing levels of annatto coproduct. 32 male uncastrated animals without a defined breed were randomized in four treatments (0, 100, 200 and 300 g kg-1 of annatto coproduct in the DM diet). After 78 days of confinement, the animals were slaughtered and body components were recorded. Reconstituted leg weight, total muscle weight, biceps weight and semitendinosus weight showed a negative linear behavior (P < 0.05) with the inclusion of the annatto coproduct in the diet. No effects of the inclusion of annatto coproduct (P > 0.05) were found for leg tissue composition (%), muscle:bone ratio, relative fat or leg muscle. Meat physico-chemical parameters (color, shear force, water retention capacity and cooking losses) were not affected by the inclusion of the annatto coproduct in the diet. The annatto coproduct can be included in up to 300 g kg-1 of dietary dry matter without negative effects to the leg tissue composition (%) and physical parameters of confined sheep meat.
The epidemiological and clinical aspects of Demodex injai demodicosis in dogs: a report of eight cases
Authors: Sgarbossa Rayane Sol Amaral Silva , Sechi Gisele Vieira , Pacheco Bruna Duarte , Lucina Stephany Buba , Paulo Maicon Roberto , Monti Fabiana Dos Santos , Farias Marconi Rodrigues de
Published: October 2017

The mite Demodex injai causes demodicosis, an uncommon, chronic, and recurrent parasitic dermatopathy in dogs. Demodicosis is characterized by an excessive proliferation of the Demodex injai mite in the pilosebaceous unit. Typically, demodicosis occurs in adults, and is associated with an underlying disease or a specific host immunodeficiency. Here, we describe the epidemiological, clinical, dermatological, and therapeutic aspects of Demodex injai demodicosis in dogs (n=8) at the Hospital Unit for Companion Animals of the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná in Brazil. The affected dogs were predominantly purebred, had a mean age of eight years, and showed no gender predisposition. The lesions were predominantly alopecic and erythematous-desquamatory, associated with follicular dyskeratosis and greasiness of the coat, and mainly affected the facial region, in addition to the back and limbs. The animals had a history of allergic, dyskeratotic, endocrine, neoplastic, and immunosuppressive comorbidities. The diagnosis of demodicosis was based on multiple skin scrapings, trichogram, and acetate tape impression of the lesion areas, macroscopic observation, and morphological characterization of the mite. Macrocyclic lactones were effectively used for treatment in most cases; however, improvement of the condition may be related to adjunctive treatment of the underlying disease.
The green turtle Chelonia mydas as a marine and coastal environmental sentinels: anthropogenic activities and diseases
Authors: Domiciano Isabela Guarnier , Domit Camila , Bracarense Ana Paula Frederico Rodrigues Loureiro
Published: October 2017

The green turtle Chelonia mydas is a widely distributed, slowly maturing species with a complex life cycle, using both oceanic and coastal environments. The species is exposed to different threats and is considered an environmental sentinel that indicates variation among, and the severity of hazards to marine ecosystems. This study aimed to describe both anthropogenic impacts, and infectious and parasitic diseases in C. mydas - including cases along the Brazilian coast - and implications for conservation. Bycatch is reported as the main threat to the conservation of this species, followed by debris ingestion, collisions with boats, dredging, and chronic environmental contamination. All of these impacts may directly or indirectly cause death, by facilitating contact with pathological agents and by increasing vulnerability to secondary diseases. The pathological agents associated with lesions include viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and helminths. Fibropapillomatosis is an example of a chronic disease characterized by cutaneous and visceral tumors that affects mostly juvenile C. mydas worldwide and is associated with the Chelonid herpesvirus 5. The bacterias Vibrio alginolyticus, Aeromonas hydrophila, and Pseudomonas fluorescens are found in the aquatic environment and among C. mydas lesions in various organs. Trematode adults and eggs of the family Spirorchiidae are also frequent in systemic cardiovascular diseases of C. mydas. The direct impacts of anthropogenic activities and diseases are synergistic and may affect the specie’s health and conservation. Therefore, the monitoring and systematic diagnosing of diseases and causes of death - including necropsy, histopathology, and molecular exams - are necessary to assess a population’s health, to support appropriate decisions of coastal management and to target future research topics that optimize C. mydas conservation.
Avaliação da produção de alcatrão no syngas produzido a partir de biomassa em gaseificador piloto co-corrente com vista a seu uso em motor a explosão
Authors: Quadros Adriano , Fernandes Fernando
Published: October 2017

Este trabalho analisa a produção de alcatrão produzido no gás de síntese proveniente de um gaseificador visando seu uso em um motor a explosão. O gaseificador utilizado no trabalho é do tipo co-corrente de duplo estágio e o motor utilizado faz parte de grupo gerador e é um motor de combustão interna MWM adaptado a ciclo Otto acoplado a um gerador síncrono trifásico de eletricidade com capacidade de 50 kVa. O gás produzido tem a composição de 16,9% de H2, menos do que 0,1% de O2, 50,6% de N2, 19,8% de CO, 10,6% de CO2 e 2,1% de CH4. A biomassa utilizada foi lenha de eucalipto. Após 46 horas de funcionamento o motor a explosão foi aberto para avaliação de seu estado. O motor se manteve em condições ideais de operação após 46 horas de funcionamento com o gás de síntese, não apresentando contaminação por alcatrão ou material particulado. A quantidade de HPAs no gás produzido foi de 1,30 µg/Nm³ e de material particulado foi de 0,16mg/Nm³.
Transesterificação do Óleo de Frango Empregando Diferentes Catalisadores
Authors: Secco Willian , Silva Camila Da , Awadallak Jamal , Silva Edson Antonio da
Published: October 2017

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar alguns catalisadores na produção de ésteres a partir do óleo de frango bruto e óleo de frango pré-tratado (neutralizado por solução alcalina). Foram avaliados os catalisadores: Amberlyst-15, Aberlite IR-120, KSF, ZnO, CaO e metanol como álcool reagente. Nos testes preliminares foram realizados ensaios nas seguintes condições reacionais: 60°C e 80°C, com 5% de catalisador em relação à massa de óleo, tempo de reação de 5 horas e razão molar álcool:óleo de 9:1.O catalisador que apresentou melhores conversões, em torno de 77% em ésteres, foi o óxido de cálcio (CaO). Por meio de um planejamento fatorial 23 foram realizados novos testes utilizando o óxido de Cálcio. As variáveis avaliadas no planejamento foram a temperatura, razão molar álcool:óleo, e percentagem mássica de catalisador. As maiores conversões obtidas foram de 79,8% e 83% para os óleos bruto e pré-tratado respectivamente, nas condições de 90ºC de temperatura, razão molar álcool:óleo de 6:1 e 4% em massa de catalisador.
Modelagem por elementos finitos de pórticos considerando as não linearidades física e geométrica
Authors: Souza Luiz Antonio Farani de
Published: October 2017

Com o avanço tecnológico, o grau de segurança obtido e o baixo custo de pesquisas computacionais, comparados com ensaios experimentais, vêm possibilitando cada vez mais a aplicação de técnicas numéricas na solução não linear de problemas de estruturas. Os modelos constitutivos de dano têm sido usados como uma importante ferramenta de análise da perda de rigidez de estruturas com a finalidade de prever a degradação do material. Neste artigo é apresentada uma formulação por meio do Método dos Elementos Finitos considerando as não linearidades física e geométrica para a análise de pórticos planos. O comportamento do material é descrito por um modelo fundamentado na Mecânico do Dano Contínuo. Na obtenção do vetor de força interna, o módulo de rigidez à flexão equivalente é determinado com a divisão da seção transversal em camadas. Para traçar a trajetória de equilíbrio com pontos limites da estrutura é utilizado o método iterativo de Chebyshev, com taxa de convergência cúbica, associado à estratégia de Controle de Deslocamento Generalizado. Resultados numéricos de problemas encontrados na literatura são confrontados com os obtidos pelo código computacional desenvolvido. A modelagem proposta apresenta potencialidade na simulação da capacidade resistente última de estruturas do tipo pórtico.
Autocensura e historiografía en tiempos de los Austrias. Presentación
Authors: Esteve Cesc
Published: October 2017

Este artículo resume los principales contenidos de los trabajos reunidos en este dossier monográfico, consagrado al estudio de las relaciones entre la autocensura y la historiografía en la España de los Austrias. Justifica la oportunidad y relevancia de este dossier, expone sus objetivos e hipótesis de trabajo, ofrece un resumen de cada artículo y evalúa algunos de sus resultados más significativos.
Martí Fraga, Eduard (2016). El Braç Militar de Catalunya (1602-1714)
Authors: Torra i Prat Ricard
Published: October 2017

Martí Fraga, Eduard (2016)El Braç Militar de Catalunya (1602-1714)València: Publicacions de la Universitat de València, 232 p.ISBN 978-84-9134-011-9
Studies on disability – international experience of teaching in the education of leaders, specialists, researchers
Authors: Głodkowska Joanna , Gasik Justyna
Published: October 2017

The article presents the new course offered by the Maria Grzegorzewska University - Interdisciplinary Disability Studies - against the Polish higher education system with special emphasis on issues relating to the historical and modern organization of teacher training for special educators. The Interdisciplinary Disability Studies course is a unique program in Poland that is based on a new, positive and multifaceted approach to and understanding of disability. The authors analyze the legal foundations of the new program, explain the need to open the program, describe the graduate's profile and refer to the curriculum. They describe the history of Polish special education: from the beginning of systemic teacher training for special educators through Maria Grzegorzewska's activities to modern times. They show the place of Interdisciplinary Disability Studies in Polish special education and in worldwide Disability Studies in that context.
Courtesy stigma and self-concept in partners of individuals with a physical disability
Authors: Byra Stanisława , Parchomiuk Monika
Published: October 2017

The article analyzes the relationship between (perceived and affiliate) courtesy stigma and self-concept among spouses of individuals with physical disabilities. The sample consisted of 85 spouses of individuals with physical disabilities. The data was collected using the Courtesy Stigma Questionnaire by Stanisława Byra and Monika Parchomiuk and the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale by William H. Fitts. The respondents reported significantly higher results for perceived stigma compared to affiliate stigma. Courtesy stigma manifestations are similar in the cognitive, affective and behavioral aspects. The study found significant relationships between the dimensions of courtesy stigma and self-concept aspects. The highest contribution in accounting for the specific aspects of self-concept (e.g. moral self, personal self, social self) is presented by the affective component of courtesy stigma. Statistically significant, although minor, contribution is also presented by the behavioral component, especially for the physical self, self-criticism and identity scales. The cognitive component of courtesy stigma was found not to account for the self-concept of the spouses in any way.
Pamiętnik Warszawskiego Instytutu Głuchoniemych i Ociemniałych źródłem wiedzy o zagranicznych instytucjach kształcenia specjalnego
Authors: Pękowska Marzena
Published: October 2017

In the nineteenth century, along with the organization of institutional care and education for people with disabilities, there emerged a need to create theories in this field. Following the formation of practical and theoretical foundations of special education, it became necessary to popularize them. In Poland, this task was taken on in the Diary of the Warsaw Institute for the Deaf and the Blind. The material presented shows the problem of the dissemination of foreign institutions' achievements in the area of special education theory and practice. The basis are articles published on the pages of all the seventeen issues of this magazine. Articles concerning special education in other countries referred to such important issues as educational legislation, compulsory education, organization of the special education system, teaching methods, curricula, teaching materials and teacher training for special education. These publications were the result of the authors' own experiences, who visited foreign institutions, and were extremely important for the creation of special educators' community in Poland. They were not only informative but also constituted a form of teacher development for teachers in schools and special centers.
Seksualność osób z niepełnosprawnością intelektualną w opinii nauczycieli i terapeutów
Authors: Rawińska Marta , Teroiłowski Artur
Published: October 2017

The aim of the study was to investigate teachers’ and therapists’ attitudes towards the sexuality of people with intellectual disabilities. Teachers working with people with intellectual disabilities in special schools and residential special needs schools act within the institutional framework – according to a specific model of support based on official regulations as well as their personal standards and values. Their knowledge and beliefs determine to a large extent whether the environment of people with disabilities will have a supportive or repressive and restraining influence on the development and expression of sexuality in people with disabilities.
The results of the study indicate that teachers and therapists show acceptance and understanding towards the sexuality of people with intellectual disabilities. They respect their rights in this area. The attitudes towards the sexuality of people with mild intellectual disabilities are more positive than towards the sexuality of people with severe intellectual disabilities. Moreover, older teachers and therapists are more likely to perceive people with intellectual disabilities in more asexual terms and treat them as people without sexual needs or rights.
Relacje małżeńskie w opinii rodziców adopcyjnych i zastępczych wychowujących dziecko z niepełnosprawnością
Authors: Bartnikowska Urszula , Ćwirynkało Katarzyna
Published: October 2017

Raising a child with a disability is a challenge for many parents. So is raising a child in a foster/adoptive family. In both cases, parents have to deal with unusual situations that may weaken or strengthen their relationship with each other. Dealing with fulfilling the role of a foster/adoptive parent of a child with a disability can be a challenge which may affect the relationship between the spouses. Available literature does not provide, however, much in-depth information on foster families raising children with disabilities. The article presents the results of qualitative research whose aim was to show the relationship between adoptive/foster parents raising children with disabilities. The study involved parents from 20 adoptive and foster families.
Ojcowie wobec opieki nad dziećmi z głęboką niepełnosprawnością intelektualną i ich edukacji – studium etnograficzne
Authors: Cytowska Beata
Published: October 2017

Fatherhood is a subject discussed more and more often by contemporary researchers and theorists. The importance of the father in all areas of child development, including the development of children with disabilities, is emphasized. The research presented in this article is devoted to a special kind of fatherhood – that is being the father of a child with profound intellectual disability.
The article presents an ethnographic study showing fathers’ behaviors, actions, reactions, and interactions focused on the process of care and education for children and youth in rehabilitation and education groups in special settings.
The collected material placed in a social context was analyzed, discussed and compared with other researchers' findings. The result was middle-range theory relating to the fathers' care-providing skills, involvement in upbringing, and task-oriented coping despite the stress and negative emotions they experience in their parenthood.
Role model and prototype matching: Upper-secondary school students’ meetings with tertiary STEM students
Authors: Lykkegaard Eva , Ulriksen Lars
Published: October 2017

Previous research has found that young people’s prototypes of science students and scientists affect their inclination to choose tertiary STEM programs (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Consequently, many recruitment initiatives include role models to challenge these prototypes. The present study followed 15 STEM-oriented upper-secondary school students from university-distant backgrounds during and after their participation in an 18-months long university-based recruitment and outreach project involving tertiary STEM students as role models. The analysis focusses on how the students’ meetings with the role models affected their thoughts concerning STEM students and attending university. The regular self-to-prototype matching process was shown in real-life role-models meetings to be extended to a more complex three-way matching process between students’ self-perceptions, prototype images and situation-specific conceptions of role models. Furthermore, the study underlined the positive effect of prolonged role-model contact, the importance of using several role models and that traditional school subjects catered more resistant prototype images than unfamiliar ones did.
ReleQuant – Improving teaching and learning in quantum physics through educational design research
Authors: Bungum Berit , Henriksen Ellen K. , Angell Carl , Tellefsen Cathrine W. , Bøe Maria Vetleseter
Published: October 2017

Quantum physics and relativity are demanding for teachers and students, but have the potential for students to experience physics as fascinating and meaningful. Project ReleQuant engaged in educational design research to improve teaching and learning in these topics in Norwegian upper secondary schools. The paper focuses on the first cycle of development of a teaching module on quantum physics and how design principles were developed. We construct the design principles by reviewing relevant research literature and conducting three pilot studies. The process resulted in the following principles for designing the quantum physics teaching module: 1) clarify how quantum physics breaks with classical physics; 2) use simulations of phenomena that cannot be experienced directly; 3) provide students to use written and oral language; 4) address and discuss wave-particle duality and the uncertainty
Incorporating nanoscale science and technology into secondary school curriculum: Views of nano-trained science teachers
Authors: Laherto Antti
Published: October 2017

The growing societal significance of nanoscience and nanotechnology (NST) entails needs for addressing these topics in school curricula. This study lays groundwork for responding to those needs in Finland. The purpose was to analyse the appropriateness of NST for secondary school curriculum contents. First, a week-long in-service teacher training course was arranged on content knowledge of NST. After attending the course, 23 experienced science teachers were surveyed regarding their views on the educational significance of these issues, and on prospects for including them into the curriculum. A questionnaire with open-ended questions was used. Qualitative content analysis of the responses revealed that the respondents considered NST as desirable contents for secondary school, but arranging instruction is problematic. The teachers emphasised the educational significance of many applications, scientific principles and ethical issues related to NST. The outcomes are discussed with reference to recent studies on teachers’ barriers and educational concerns regarding NST.
Augmented Reality in science education–affordances for student learning
Authors: Nielsen Birgitte Lund , Brandt Harald , Swensen Håkon
Published: October 2017

Most extant studies examining augmented reality (AR) have focused on the technology itself. This paper presents findings addressing the issue of AR for educational purposes based on a sequential survey distributed to 35 expert science teachers, ICT designers and science education researchers from four countries. There was consensus among experts in relation to a focus on ‘learning before technology’, and they in particular supplemented affordances identified in literature with perspectives related to interactivity, a creator perspective and inquiry based science. Expert reflections were condensed into innovative dimensions in a framework with nine continua. The framework can be used to illustrate how, and to what extent, an innovative educational perspective, such as that focusing on engaging learners in creating and/or inquiring can be addressed in a particular AR design, and is in the paper exemplified for use in both analysis of existing educational AR and in design of new second-generation AR.
Tekniska system i grundskolan – kritiska aspekter som didaktisk möjlighet. "Technological systems in school – on critical aspects as didactic possibilities"
Authors: Svensson Maria
Published: October 2017

Research related to the school subject technology shows that teaching about technological system is limited and that there is an uncertainty among teachers about what the learning of technological systems implies. The purpose of this article is to contribute to the development of teachers’ professional object of knowledge about technological systems. In the curriculum of the subject technology in several countries, including Sweden, knowledge about technological systems such as information, energy and communication systems are included. In this article a synthesized analysis of two phenomenographic studies of young people’s experience of technological systems is presented. The result of the analysis is young people’s experience of technological systems described in terms of three dimensions of variation: resource, intent and structure. Critical aspects in those dimensions are also identified. Looking at the dimensions and aspects from an educational perspective, they offer a possible starting point for teachers when they plan instruction on technological systems. If teachers address their own and young people’s awareness on dimensions of variation, it will enable more powerful ways of learning about technological systems.
Features and Functions of Scientific Language(s) in TIMSS 2011
Authors: Persson Tomas , Af Geijerstam Åsa , Liberg Caroline
Published: October 2017

This study is examining differences in language use within different scientific subjects by analysing all grade 8 science items from TIMSS 2011. Four meaning dimensions are identified as central for analysing what functions different linguistic features fulfil in scientific language. They concern the level of Personification in a text, and the levels of Packing, Precision and Presentation of information. Results show that the language use in TIMSS in some regards differs between the scientific subjects. The average physics language uses more words. The language use in biology shows higher Packing and lower Precision, whereas physics show the opposite pattern. Although items are generally low in Personification, the language of physics has higher levels of Personification, especially when compared to earth science. The language in chemistry often presents information in ways that are more complex. With the results, the study is challenging the notion that there is a single scientific language.
Two bridges between biology and learning
Authors: Nyléhn Jorun
Published: October 2017

Human biology, in terms of organization of our brains and our evolutionary past, constrains and enables learning. Two examples where neurobiology and evolution influences learning are given and discussed in relation to education: mirror neurons and adaptive memory. Mirror neurons serves imitation and understanding of other peoples intentions. Adaptive memory implies that our memory is an adaptation influenced by our evolutionary past, enabling us to solve problems in the present and in the future. Additionally, the aim is to contribute to bridges between natural and social sciences in an attempt to achieve an improved understanding of learning. The relevance of perspectives on learning founded in biology are discussed, and the article argues for including biological perspectives in discussions of education and learning processes.
Chemistry in crisis? Perspectives on teaching and learning chemistry in Swedish upper secondary schools
Authors: Broman Karolina , Ekborg Margareta , Johnels Dan
Published: October 2017

Explanations for a decline in the number of students studying chemistry at advanced level all over the world have been sought for quite some time. Many students do not find chemistry relevant and meaningful and there have been difficulties in developing school chemistry courses that engage students sufficiently and tempt them to further studies in the field. In this study, Swedish upper secondary school students (Ns=372) and their teachers (Nt=18) answered a questionnaire on their experiences of the content and the working methods of their chemistry course. They were also given the opportunity to express ideas on how to make chemistry courses more interesting and meaningful. The results point out some subject areas as both easy and interesting, e.g. atomic structure; while other areas are hard to understand but still interesting, e.g. biochemistry. The students find chemistry lessons teachercentred, something they appreciate. When teachers and students gave suggestions on how to improve the relevance of chemistry education at upper secondary level, more laboratory work and connections to everyday life were the most common proposals. But on the whole, these students seem quite satisfied with their chemistry courses.
Biologisk mångfald i svenska läroböcker för skolår 6-9
Authors: Ferlin Maria
Published: October 2017

This article presents a study of how different aspects of biodiversity, related to human activities, are described in six textbooks in Biology for secondary school in Sweden. It discusses the opportunities the books provide for pupils to attain the goals of the syllabus. The textbooks have been analyzed by using a quantitative content analysis with qualitative elements. The analysis has been undertaken in terms of four different aspects of biodiversity: utilitarian aspects, economic aspects, ethical aspects and aesthetic aspects. These are found in the parts of the books dealing with systematics, plants, animals, fungi, microbiology, biotechnology, the cell, ecology, etology, genetics, evolution and environmental care. The results show a variation between the textbooks in how biodiversity is defined, as well as in the proportions of the texts dealing with the issue. It is also found that the books contain faults and questionable formulations with regard to biodiversity. Finally, plausible effects of the pupils´ goal-attainments are discussed in relation to the structure, formulations and contents of the books.
Concept maps representing knowledge of physics: Connecting structure and content in the context of electricity and magnetism
Authors: Nousiainen Maija , Koponen Ismo T.
Published: October 2017

Many assume that the quality of students’ content knowledge can be connected to certain structural characteristics of concept maps, such as the clustering of concepts around other concepts, cyclical paths between concepts and the hierarchical ordering of concepts. In order to study this relationship, we examine concept maps in electricity and magnetism drawn by physics teacher students and their instructors. The structural analysis of the maps is based on the operationalisation of important structural features (i.e. the features of interest are recognised and made measurable). A quantitative analysis of 43 concept maps was carried out on this basis. The results show that structure and content are closely connected; the structural features of clustering, cyclicity and hierarchy can serve as quantitative measures in characterising structural quality as well as the quality of content knowledge in concept maps. These findings have educational implications in regard to fostering the teacher student’s organisation of knowledge and in monitoring the process of such organisation.
System competence – Are elementary students able to deal with a biological system?
Authors: Sommer Cornelia , Lücken Markus
Published: October 2017

The objective of this study was to elucidate elementary school students’ (9-11 years of age) system competence. Starting from systems theory, a framework for system competence assessment was developed to analyse the relevant abilities. This framework describes the skills for system modelling and the ability to deal with system properties. In a pre/post-test-design 363 elementary school students were tested. Questionnaires and concept maps were applied to answer the research questions whether they are capable of creating a model of a given biological system and of recognizing specific system properties. The results indicate that elementary school students already show system competence in the tested domain “system stork”. Their system organisation abilities were higher than their abilities to deal with system properties, such as predicting the consequences of changes or assessing complex effects in a system.
Secondary science teachers’ selective traditions and examples of inquiry-oriented approaches
Authors: Gyllenpalm Jakob , Wickman Per-Olof , Holmgren Sven-Olof
Published: October 2017

This paper describes aspects of the existing tradition of practical work in secondary science education in Sweden, with a focus on inquiry-oriented teaching approaches. Twelve secondary science teachers were interviewed and asked to describe examples of their own teaching practices that they believed constituted inquiry-oriented teaching. The descriptions are analysed in relation to key components of inquiry as conceptualised in the science education literature. In addition, the teachers’ way of talking about their own teaching in relation to inquiry is described and analysed. The results show a wide variety of teaching approaches that are associated with inquiry in different ways. Although inquiry is valued by many teachers, it is also problematic. We discuss the nature of the problems associated with inquiry by the teachers and the possible consequences of these for teacher education, in-service training and curriculum development.
Några uppgifter som belyser elevers uppfattningar om vad som är teknik
Authors: Andersson Björn , Svensson Maria , Zetterqvist Ann
Published: October 2017

Discussions about technological literacy have resulted in statements about the technological literate citizen who should recognize technology as something that permeates modern society and should be able to differentiate between nature (shaped by evolution) and technology (shaped by humans). Earlier studies show that pupils express rather limited views of technology, often as modern tools (computers) and isolated from human needs. In the light of these results we wondered if Swedish pupils differentiate between technology and nature, what they view as examples of technology and if they recognize technology as an old enterprise. Our study involved 150-200 pupils in school year 7-9 who answered three questions individually in writing. The results indicate that the pupils in our group differentiate between technology and nature but many of them express limited views of what technology is. Common everyday products are regarded as technology by a minority. Furthermore several pupils seemed to regard technology as a recent activity, for example a stone axe was agreed to be technology by less than half the group and about 1/5 of the group agreed that ’technology is something rather new that only has existed a few hundred years’. Some possible implications of these results are discussed.
Students’ early experiences of biodiversity and education for a sustainable future
Authors: Helldén Gustav , Helldén Sofia
Published: October 2017

In order to be able to help students to read nature and to get an ability to discern both biodiversity in different contexts and changes in the environment we need to investigate how they experience biodiversity and how they discern different components in an ecosystem. Therefore, we undertook an interview-study of fifteen 10-12 year old students’ experiences of biodiversity and how they discerned organisms in different ecosystems. We analysed how they described the organisms and how they referred to experiences from everyday life. After two years we interviewed the students about what they said in the initial interview. Experiences of biodiversity at an early age seemed to be important for the future development of their understanding. It is important, both to give children early experiences of biodiversity in nature and to take students’ early ideas into consideration in teaching for lifelong learning and for a sustainable future.
Bedre læringsstrategier i realfag
Authors: Holt Anne , Øyehaug Anne Bergljot , Rom Bjarte , Kvammen Per Ivar , Mollberg Mats
Published: October 2017

Prosjektet ”Bedre læringsstrategier i realfag”, et samarbeidprosjekt mellom Nes kommune i Akershus og Høgskolen i Hedmark, startet som et skole-foreldreinitiativ for å oppnå bedre læringsresultater og utjevne sosiale forskjeller i Nes-skolen. Initiativet kom som følge av gjentatte nedslående resultater fra de internasjonale undersøkelsene PISA (OECD, 2003) og TIMSS (Grønmo, Bergem, Kjærnsli, Lie, & Turmo, 2004). Prestasjonene til norske elever i naturfag og matematikk er nå under det gjennomsnittlige OECD-resultatet (Kjærnsli, Lie, Olsen, & Roe, 2007). Tidligere har det blitt rapportert at elevene har et begrenset repertoar av læringsstrategier (Kjærnsli, Lie, Olsen, Roe, & Turmo, 2004; Lie, Kjærnsli, Roe, & Turmo, 2001). Som følge av funn i disse internasjonale undersøkelsene har begrepet læringsstrategier fått aktualitet og blitt løftet frem som en mulig vei til bedre læring (Elstad & Turmo, 2006). Den siste PISA-undersøkelsen (Kjærnsli et al., 2007) gir bare svak støtte til at bedre oppøving av gode læringsstrategier vil fremme elevenes læring i faget. Hvordan læringsstrategier tilpasset situasjoner og fag vil kunne fremme læring, er noe av det vi vil studere nærmere i dette prosjektet.