bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finding the Brightest Cosmic Beacons in the Southern Hemisphere
Authors: Calderone Giorgio , Boutsia Konstantina , Cristiani Stefano , Grazian Andrea , Amorin Ricardo , D’Odorico Valentina , Cupani Guido , Fontanot Fabio , Salvato Mara
Published: December 2019

The study of absorptions along the lines of sight to bright high-z QSOs is an invaluable cosmological tool that provides a wealth of information on the inter-/circum-galactic medium, dark matter, primordial elements, reionization, fundamental constants, and general relativity. Unfortunately, the number of bright (i ≲ 18) QSOs at z ≳ 2 in the southern hemisphere is much lower than that in the north, due to the lack of wide multiwavelength surveys at decl. δ < 0°, hampering the effectiveness of observations from southern observatories. In this work we present a new method based on Canonical Correlation Analysis to identify such objects, taking advantage of a number of available databases: Skymapper, Gaia DR2, WISE, and 2MASS. Our QSO candidate sample lists 1476 sources with i < 18 over 12,400 square degrees in the southern hemisphere. With a preliminary campaign we observed spectroscopically 69 of them, confirming 54 new bright QSOs at z > 2.5, corresponding to a success rate of our method of ∼80%. Furthermore, we estimate a completeness of ∼90% of our sample at completion of our observation campaign. The new QSOs confirmed by this first and the forthcoming campaigns (QUBRICS10 survey) will be the targets of subsequent studies using higher resolution spectrographs, like ESPRESSO, UVES, and (in the long term) ELT/HIRES.
Photoionization of CO Using R-matrix Theory
Authors: Modak Paresh , Antony Bobby
Published: December 2019

CO molecules possess three valence orbitals, 5σ, 1π, and 4σ in the ground state X
1Σ+. These orbitals show intense absorptions due to the presence of Rydberg transitions, which exhibit sharp features in the photoionization curve. The autoionization to these orbitals causes a sudden increase in the photoionization cross section. Shape resonances are also detected in valence shell photoionization. Our aim is to resolve the autoionizing Rydberg structures of CO and study their effect on the photoionization cross section, assigning the correct symmetry responsible for the resonances occurring in valence state photoionization. For the present study we have employed the UK R-matrix formalism. In this article, we report a valence state photoionization cross section for 5σ, 1π, and 4σ orbitals of CO, which produces X
2Σ+, A
2Π, and B
2Σ+ ionic states and compared it with existing results, wherever available. The photoionization rate coefficients for these valence states are also calculated and the effect of Rydberg transitions on the rate is discussed. We have observed a major contribution of the Rydberg series coming from the ground state of CO and a shape resonance was found for the B
2Σ+ ionic state. This is the first report of high-resolution valence state photoionization of CO. The near threshold features in the photoionization curve (which are absent in previous studies) are produced with high precision. We have reported a detailed study of the photoionization cross section for three valence orbitals of CO in the vicinity of complex autoionizing Rydberg series transitions.
Exploring the Convective Core of the Hybrid δ Scuti-γ Doradus Star CoRoT 100866999 with Asteroseismology
Authors: Chen Xinghao , Li Yan , Zhang Xiaobin
Published: December 2019

We computed a grid of theoretical models to fit the δ Scuti frequencies of CoRoT 100866999 detected earlier from the CoRoT time serials. The pulsating primary star is determined to be a main-sequence star with a rotation period of

days, rotating slower than the orbital motion. The fundamental parameters of the primary star are determined to be

,

,

,

K,

,

,

, and

, matching those obtained from the eclipsing light-curve analysis. Based on the model fittings, p
1 and p
5 are suggested to be two dipole modes, and p
3, p
4, p
6, and p
7 are suggested to be four quadrupole modes. In particular, p
4 and p
7 are identified as two components of one quintuplet. Based on the best-fitting model, we find that p
1 is a g mode and the other nonradial modes have pronounced mixed characters, which give strong constraints on the convective core. Finally, the relative size of the convective core of CoRoT 100866999 is determined to

.
A Deep Targeted Search for Fast Radio Bursts from the Sites of Low-redshift Short Gamma-Ray Bursts
Authors: Madison D. R. , Agarwal D. , Aggarwal K. , Young O. , Cromartie H. T. , Lam M. T. , Chatterjee S. , Cordes J. M. , Garver-Daniels N. , Lorimer D. R. , Lynch R. S. , McLaughlin M. A. , Ransom S. M. , Wharton R. S.
Published: December 2019

Some short gamma-ray bursts (SGRBs) are thought to be caused by the mergers of binary neutron stars which may sometimes produce massive neutron star remnants capable of producing extragalactic fast radio bursts (FRBs). We conducted a deep search for FRBs from the sites of six low-redshift SGRBs. We collected high time- and frequency-resolution data from each of the sites for 10 hr using the 2 GHz receiver of the Green Bank Telescope (GBT). Two of the SGRB sites we targeted were visible with the Arecibo Radio Telescope with which we conducted an additional 10 hr of 1.4 GHz observations for each. We searched our data for FRBs using the GPU-optimized dedispersion algorithm heimdall and the machine-learning-based package Fast Extragalactic Transient Candidate Hunter. We did not discover any FRBs, but would have detected any with peak flux densities in excess of 87 mJy at the GBT or 21 mJy at Arecibo with a signal-to-noise ratio of at least 10. The isotropic-equivalent energy of any FRBs emitted from these sites in our bands during our observations must not have exceeded a few times 1038 erg, comparable to some of the lowest energy bursts yet seen from the first known repeating FRB 121102.
Deciphering Residual Emissions: Time-dependent Models for the Nonthermal Interstellar Radiation from the Milky Way
Authors: Porter T. A. , Jóhannesson G. , Moskalenko I. V.
Published: December 2019

Cosmic rays (CRs) in the Galaxy are an important dynamical component of the interstellar medium (ISM) that interact with the other major components (interstellar gas and magnetic and radiation fields) to produce broadband interstellar emissions that span the electromagnetic spectrum. The standard modeling of CR propagation and production of the associated emissions is based on a steady-state assumption, where the CR source spatial density is described using a smoothly varying function of position that does not evolve with time. While this is a convenient approximation, reality is otherwise, where primary CRs are produced in and about highly localized regions, e.g., supernova remnants, which have finite lifetimes. In this paper, we use the latest version of the GALPROP CR propagation code to model time-dependent CR injection and propagation through the ISM from a realistic 3D discretized CR source density distribution, together with full 3D models for the other major ISM components, and make predictions of the associated broadband nonthermal emissions. We compare the predictions for the discretized and equivalent steady-state model, finding that the former predicts novel features in the broadband nonthermal emissions that are absent for the steady-state case. Some of the features predicted by the discretized model may be observable in all-sky observations made by WMAP and Planck, the recently launched eROSITA, the Fermi-LAT, and ground-based observations by HESS, HAWC, and the forthcoming CTA. The nonthermal emissions predicted by the discretized model may also provide explanations of puzzling anomalies in high-energy γ-ray data, such as the Fermi-LAT north/south asymmetry and residuals like the so-called “Fermi bubbles.”
The Interstellar Ribbon: A Unifying Explanation
Authors: Schwadron N. A. , McComas D. J.
Published: December 2019

The Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX) mission discovered the presence of a global structure in energetic neutral atom emissions from the outer heliosphere not predicted by any model—the IBEX “ribbon.” In the search for possible explanations, observations have pointed to a likely source from neutral atoms produced through charge exchange with the outflowing solar wind, the secondary solar wind, which then undergoes charge exchange again beyond the heliopause within the very local interstellar medium. Here we study the plasma structure beyond the heliopause created from a range of secondary neutral atom sources: (1) solar wind atoms, (2) pickup atoms inside the termination shock, and (3) suprathermal atoms from the inner heliosheath, between the termination shock and heliopause. All of these particle sources populate the plasma environment beyond the heliopause. At the high end of the observational energy range of IBEX (3.1–6.0 keV FWHM), the significantly broadened and positionally shifted energetic neutral atom signature of the ribbon suggests plasma structure associated primarily with secondary suprathermal atoms from the inner heliosheath. The population created from this suprathermal population extends well above 6 keV (the top of the IBEX energy range) and provides a source for an extremely broad (>60° in angular) width shifted southward (>10°) in latitude from the direction centered on the local interstellar magnetic field. Thus, the extension of plasma structure to energies above IBEX provides a unified explanation of the ribbon created primarily from secondary solar wind atoms to a broadened and shifted structure (the broad ribbon or belt) created primarily from secondary suprathermal atoms in the heliosheath.
Oral Ulcers Presentation in Systemic Diseases: An Update
Authors: Minhas Sadia , Sajjad Aniqa , Kashif Muhammad , Taj Farooq , Alwadaani Hamed , Khurshid Zohaib
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND: Diagnosis of oral ulceration is always challenging and has been the source of difficulty because of the remarkable overlap in their clinical presentations.
AIM: The objective of this review article is to provide updated knowledge and systemic approach regarding oral ulcers diagnosis depending upon clinical picture while excluding the other causative causes.
METHODS: For this, specialised databases and search engines involving Science Direct, Medline Plus, Scopus, PubMed and authentic textbooks were used to search topics related to the keywords such as oral ulcer, oral infections, vesiculobullous lesion, traumatic ulcer, systematic disease and stomatitis. Associated articles published from 1995 to 2019 in both dental and medical journals including the case reports, case series, original articles and reviews were considered.
RESULTS: The compilation of the significant data reveals that ulcers can be classified according to (i) duration of onset, (ii) number of ulcers and (iii) etiological factors. Causation of oral ulcers varies from slight trauma to underlying systemic diseases and malignancies.
CONCLUSION: Oral manifestations must be acknowledged for precise diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Analysis of NPHS2 Gene Mutations in Egyptian Children with Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Zaki Moushira , El-Shaer Shreen , Rady Sahar , Abd El-Salam Manal , Abd-El-Salam Ragaa , Alkashlan Ibrahim Abdelfattah , Saber Mohamed , Mohamed Sanaa , Hassaan Mohamed , Rabie Eman , Amr Khalda
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND: Mutations in the NPHS2 genes are the main aetiology of early-onset and familial steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). The pathogenic NPHS2 mutation together with the p.R229Q variant has been less described among Egyptian children.
AIM: This study aims to determine the mutation of NPHS2 in children with NS and discover the role of p.R229Q variant in SRNS
METHODS: The study included 53 children with NS, and 53 healthy volunteers matched in age and sex controls. The median age at disease onset was 7.3 years. Among NS cases, 31 cases had steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) and 22 children with steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). Polymerase chain reaction amplification of the whole coding region of NPHS2 gene was carried out for its mutational analysis. Restriction digestion testing was carried out after PCR to determine the presence of R229Q polymorphism. Randomly selected samples were re-genotyped by two independent technicians for assessment of Quality control
RESULTS: NS patients showed a significant higher frequency of heterozygous genotype GA (89.5%) compared to control group (10.5%) with increased risk of NS (OR, 12.04; 95% CI, 2.61 to55.38; p < 0.0001). Moreover, SRNS showed a significant higher frequency of GA genotype (68.2%) than the SSNS group (6.5%). The GA genotype was associated with increased risk of SRNS (OR, 31.1; 95% CI, 5.73 to 168.48; P < 0.001) and the A allele was associated with increased risk of SRNS (OR, 15.52; 95% CI, 3.325 to 72.422; P < .001).
CONCLUSION: R229Q polymorphisms are associated with SRNS, and any child with SRNS should be searched for mutations in the NPHS2 gene.
Age Stratification in Genetic Variation of Lipoprotein Lipase in Metabolic Syndrome Javanese Ethnics of Indonesia
Authors: Mus Rosdiana , Sadewa Ahmad Hamim , Hastuti Pramudji , Puspasari Anggelia , Maharano Citra , Setyawati Ika
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome (Met-S) that caused by heredity and Lipoprotein Lipase (LPL). LPL is involved in the metabolism of serum lipids. Variations in LPL alter enzyme activity, and the most common variations are LPL +495 T > G and LPL Pvu II C > T.
AIM: This study aimed to identify the role of LPL +495 T > G and LPL PvuII C > T gene variations in subjects with Met-S in Javanese ethnic based on age stratification.
METHODS: We recruited 160 participants of Javanese ethnicity consisting of 80 cases and 80 control subjects. Met-S was diagnosed according to the criteria of NCEP ATP III. Peripheral blood samples were collected to determine biochemical parameters. Screening for both polymorphisms was made by PCR-RFLP.
RESULTS: Results found that genotype and allele frequencies for LPL +495 T > G were not significantly different between Met-S and controls with and without age stratification. In LPL PvuII C > T based on age stratification, there were significant differences between TT vs CC, recessive and dominant models in Met-S and control. In the age group > 45 years CC genotypes and TC+CC had increased risk of Met-S compared to TT genotypes. In summary, there was no significant association between LPL +495 T > G gene variation with Met-S.
CONCLUSION: In LPL PvuII gene variation, TC + CC is the risk genotype of Met-S in the age group > 45 years.
Demography and treatment pattern of patients with head and neck carcinoma presenting to a tertiary care center in India
Authors: Chandarana Mihir N. , Pai Prathamesh S.
Published: December 2019

Aims: This study aims to report on the demographic profile and treatment pattern of head and neck cancer patients and impact of an early treatment decision on treatment. This study also aims to suggest recommendations to improve treatment compliance. Methods: All new patients registered under the head and neck disease management group (DMG) over a period of 3 months at a single center were included. Their demographic details, time to treatment decision, and treatment compliance were determined. The findings were presented to head and neck DMG, and changes were implemented to patient workup with an aim to improve compliance. A reaudit was performed over a period of 3 months and results were compared. Results: Two thousand two hundred and forty patients were included in the analysis. Patients with a treatment decision at 1–4 weeks stood at 28.32%, 63.88%, 80.8%, and 89.87%, respectively. Dropout rate was 26%. About 50% of patients planned for surgical intervention could be treated within the institution. After implementation of changes as recommended by DMG, 2418 patients were analyzed and findings were compared to the previous audit. The dropout rate reduced to 17.57%. The number of patients with a treatment decision at 1–4 weeks were 51.26%, 77.42%, 89.46%, and 94.31%, respectively. Conclusion: Early treatment decision and referral could significantly improve patient dropout and possibly compliance to treatment. Decentralization of cancer care is urgently needed to manage the high numbers of patients presenting to tertiary care centers. Setting up of new regional cancer centers and increasing infrastructure in the existing centers should be the long-term goals.
Third-line therapy in the epidermal growth factor receptor mutation-positive advanced nonsmall-cell lung cancer
Authors: Noronha Vanita , Pande Nikhil , Joshi Amit , Patil Vijay , Trivedi Vaishakhi , Chougule Anuradha , Janu Amit , Mahajan Abhishek , Talreja Vikas , Prabhash Kumar
Published: December 2019

Introduction: The treatment of lung cancer is not defined in the third-line setting and remains an unanswered question. Erlotinib is the only drug approved in the third-line setting. With the introduction of effective first- and second-line therapies, more and more patients warrant an effective third-line therapy. We did a post hoc analysis of our randomized trial for the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-positive patients who received third-line therapy. Materials and Methods: The present series is of 85 patients who received third-line therapy. Demographic data were collected which included age, performance status, gender, stage, comorbidities, and sites of metastasis. Data were collected for the type of systemic treatment patients received and number of cycles received. Information related to the impact of treatment on the symptoms of patients and the imaging done for response evaluation was collected. Results: Of the 85 patients, there were 13 patients (15%) who achieved a partial response and 34 patients (40%) who had stable disease as best response. There were no complete response and 20 patients (24%) had disease progression at the time of first assessment. The median overall survival (OS) was 8.36 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.8–9.8 months) and median progression-free survival was 4.4 months (95% CI 3.3–4.9 months). Grade 3 or 4 toxicities were seen in 42.5% (n = 36) of the total patients. Conclusions: The study provides the patterns and outcomes of systemic treatment in metastatic EGFR-mutated lung adenocarcinoma in patients who have progressed on two or more lines of systemic therapies. This data suggest that third-line systemic therapy may provide meaningful outcomes in these patients.
Nimotuzumab with intensity-modulated radiation therapy in unresectable and platinum-ineligible locally advanced head-and-neck cancer
Authors: Srinivas K. Satish , Sundaram Raja , Divyambika C. V. , Chaudhari Sameer
Published: December 2019

Background: Outcomes with conventional treatment are poor in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck (SCCHN). Treatment options are further limited for patients ineligible to receive platinum-based chemotherapy due to various factors such as geriatric age, comorbidity, and organ dysfunctions. The present study retrospectively evaluated the effectiveness of nimotuzumab when added to radiation therapy in unresectable, locally advanced SCCHN patients who were ineligible for platinum-based chemotherapy. Materials and Methods: The medical records of 21 patients with unresectable, locally advanced head-and-neck cancer and histologically confirmed squamous cell carcinoma who were ineligible for platinum-based chemotherapy treated with nimotuzumab and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) from 2012 to 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. The tumor response rate and overall survival (OS) were analyzed. Patients were assessed for toxicity and adverse events (AEs) as per CTCAE version 4. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. Results: The median number of doses of nimotuzumab received was 6, and median dose of radiotherapy was 60 Gy. The tumor response rate was calculated at 24 weeks after the completion of radiotherapy and was as follows: 76.2% (16) of patients showed complete response, 9.5% (2) of patients showed partial response, 4.8% (1) of patients showed stable disease, and 9.5% (2) of patients showed progression of disease. Median OS was 21 months, whereas 1-year survival rate was 63.7%. No Grade 3 or Grade 4 AEs were observed. Conclusion: Nimotuzumab with IMRT has achieved promising clinical outcomes in unresectable locally advanced SCCHN patients who are ineligible for platinum-based chemotherapy, without accumulation of toxicity.
How cancer of oral cavity affects the family caregivers? – A cross-sectional study in Wardha, India, using the Caregiver Quality of Life Index – Cancer questionnaire
Authors: Goswami Sourav , Gupta Subodh Saran
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Oral cancer is now a major public health problem in India. It does not only affect the patient, but also has a deep psychosocial impact on the family caregivers who are deeply involved with the cancer patient for nursing, timely medication, and consulting the doctor. Studies have found that the caregivers often suffer from depression, anxiety, and fear of losing their near and dear ones. This study aims to capture the psychosocial impact of oral cancer on the family caregivers. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out in a tertiary care hospital with the primary caregivers of those oral cancer patients who completed their treatment and came for follow-up after 2–3 months of treatment completion. The study participants were recruited till a sample size of 100 was reached. This was adequate to report proportions with an error of 10%. We have used “The Caregiver Quality of Life Index – Cancer” scale to capture the psychosocial impact of oral cancer on primary caregiver of the patient. The study was initiated after obtaining approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Informed written consents were obtained from all the study participants before beginning the interviews. Results: Caregivers played an important role in the recovery of the patients. However, the strain of caregiving resulted in increased emotional stress among them. We found 56% of the family caregivers were female and 41% were male. Majority of the caregivers who accompanied the patients to hospital were the spouses. For the caregivers, the mean score for burden of the disease was found to be 60.0 (±20.2), that for disruption was 50.4 (±21.7), and for positive adaptation was 61.4 (±20.7). Conclusion: Caregivers, who are usually invisible to the health-care team, should be recognized and their mental and physical well-being should also be given attention.
Adequacy of surgical margins in oral cancer patients with respect to various types of reconstruction
Authors: Garg Apurva , Mair Manish , Singhavi Hitesh , Bhati Muddasir , Malik Akshat , Mishra Aseem , Nair Deepa , Nair Sudhir , Chaturvedi Pankaj
Published: December 2019

Bacground: Surgical margin is an important prognostic factor for oral cancers (oral squamous cell carcinoma [OSCC]). The correlation of margin with the type of reconstruction has never been studied. Aim: This study aimed to correlate surgical margins with the type of reconstruction. Methods: This was a retrospective study of 410 treatment-naïve OSCC patients. As per the methods of reconstruction, three groups were made when reconstruction was performed using pedicled flap (PF) or local flap, free flap, and primary closure (PC). Statistical Analysis: Chi-square test was used for comparison of margin status as per the method of reconstruction. Mann–Whitney test was used to find the difference between the mean margin width with respect to the type of reconstruction. Results: The overall incidence of close/positive margins was 7.8%. The incidence of close/positive margins was not significantly different in free flap group compared to PF (P = 0.06) or PC (P = 0.835) group. However, there was a significant difference in the incidence of close/positive margins between PC and PF groups (P = 0.021). Whether the reconstruction is performed by the primary surgeon or by a another surgeon, it did not have an impact on adequacy of margins (P = 0.334). Margins were wider when the reconstruction is performed by a different team (P = 0.015) or when reconstruction is performed as compared to PC. Conclusion: Margins are not affected by the type of reconstruction (pedicled vs. free flap) and the team doing reconstruction (same vs. another team). Margins are significantly compromised when a surgeon performs PC himself/herself compared to PF.
Economics of cancer care: A community-based cross-sectional study in Kerala, India
Authors: A. Dinesh T. , Nair Prem , Abhijath V. , Jha Vidya , Aarthy K.
Published: December 2019

Bacground: The estimated incidence of cancer cases in Kerala for 2014 was 31,400 and the mortality associated with it was 13,816. Although the treatment of cancer has shown remarkable advances, it has come with increasing costs. Objective: The objective of this study is to estimate the economic burden of cancer in Vypin Block Panchayat at Ernakulam by analyzing the average total direct and indirect cost of cancer care, socioeconomic status, and cost of cancer care between government and private hospitals. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted for 2 months from March to April 2018. The study was conducted by utilizing an annotated cost questionnaire for completion by patients. Total direct and indirect cost was estimated. Appropriate statistical tests were used. Results: Direct cost for cancer care contributed 75% toward the cost of illness and the remaining was found to be indirect cost. Loss of income (44%) contributed to the largest chunk of indirect cost. The average direct cost for cancer care was found to be Rs. 25,606 and the average indirect cost was Rs. 8772. The average total cost of cancer care was calculated to be Rs. 34,378. Significant statistical variation was found between the cost of cancer care in private and government hospitals. The economic burden of cancer in this Vypin Block Panchayat was found to be Rs. 218,256,977/- Conclusion: The ratio of average income to average cost in this study is skewed which indicates the lack of affordability for cancer care in this population. A very large gap, therefore, exits between income levels and cost of cancer care clearly indicating a vast gap between affordability and cost of treatment, which clearly necessitates the need for a definite policy and state intervention for a mass cancer care program.
Epidemiology and clinical features of retinoblastoma
Authors: Padma Maneya , Kumar Nuthan , Nesargi Prerana S. , Kumari B.S Aruna , Appaji L. , Viswanathan Aarthi
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Retinoblastoma (RB) is a prototype of heritable cancers. It is more common in the lower socioeconomic strata. Delayed presentation significantly reduces the overall outcome. We have analyzed the epidemiological and clinical data of children who were diagnosed with RB between the years 2009 and 2014. Aim: RB being a disease of the poor, delayed presentation is common due to lack of awareness. We have analyzed the epidemiological profile of our patients and tried to establish the link between delayed presentation and the presence of high-risk features. High-risk features are associated with higher chance of metastasis and poor rates of vision salvage in RB. Methodology: Data were collected in a retrospective manner from the patient case files retrieved from the Medical Records Department, Kidwai cancer Institute. The data were analyzed using Excel and SPSS software (IBM Corp. released 2016, IBM SPSS statistics software for Mac OS, version 24, IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Results: A total of 53 patients were diagnosed with RB in the years 2009–2014. There was a male predominance with 1.2:1 incidence. Bilateral RB was present in 21 cases. The mean age of children with bilateral RB was 2.1 years, against 1.5 years in unilateral cases. High-risk features such as optic nerve invasion, choroidal invasion, intracranial extension, and orbital involvement were found in 12, 6, 5, and 5 eyes, respectively. Bone marrow involvement was detected in 5% and lung metastasis in 2%. Intracranial involvement was found in 10.4% and cerebrospinal fluid positivity in 15%. Children with high-risk features had a significant delay in presentation in comparison to those without high-risk features (P = 0.035). Conclusion: Incidence of metastatic disease and delayed presentation is still high in developing countries. Routine eye examination during vaccination visits can ensure early diagnosis and appropriate referral in many of these children.
Relevance of the Senior High School Curriculum in Ghana in Relation to Contextual Reality of the World of Work
Authors: Kwadwo Okrah Abraham , Ernest Ampadu , Rita Yeboah
Published: December 2019

The mass unemployment of the youth toady has mostly been attributed to the irrelevance of the school curriculum. However, the skills in the curriculum have not been subjected to critical analysis to empirically prove their relevance or otherwise. The purpose of the study was therefore to identify the skills embedded in the curriculum, those skills the learners have acquired and those that employers usually demand of employees by relating them to empirical findings of the skills employers in general demand of employees. A conceptual content analysis was used to determine the skills embedded in the curriculum. Purposive sampling procedure was used to select twenty-one students and fourteen key informants for an interview. The data from the interview were sorted out into themes and coded through the use of NVivo 8 to help in the counting of frequencies of each skill. It was found out that the senior high school curriculum, though was generally rated as relevant, the skills with the highest frequencies in the curriculum focused on attitudes and values while those required by employers focused on the application of knowledge. On the basis of these findings, it can be concluded that the curriculum is relevant in instilling values into the students but it is not relevant in the application of knowledge that employers usually demand of employees at the work environment.
Pre-service Primary School Teachers’ Scientific Epistemological Beliefs and Attitudes toward Science: Is there a Relationship?
Authors: Bayraktar Şule
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine pre-service primary school teachers’ scientific epistemological beliefs and attitudes toward science. The study also investigated whether there was a relationship between epistemological beliefs and attitudes toward science. Sample of the study consisted of 90 students pursuing their third year in primary teacher education at Giresun University, which is located in northeastern part of Turkey. Data for the study were collected through the use of the Scientific Epistemological Beliefs Scale and the Attitudes toward Science Scale. Means, t-test, and correlation analysis were used to analyze data. Findings showed that these pre-service primary school teachers’ scientific epistemological beliefs differentiated for the dimensions of the scale from relatively naive to sophisticated beliefs. There were no significant differences between male and female pre-service teachers in terms of scientific epistemological beliefs and attitudes toward science. Results also showed a positive significant correlation between the scientific epistemological beliefs and attitudes toward science.
A Multidimensional Development Study of Written English Complexity of High-level Non-English Major Students
Authors: Guo Yazhen , Chen Haiyuan
Published: December 2019

Writing is widely regarded as one of the most important parts in the field of second language learning and teaching. The main assessment elements of L2 writing can be divided into accuracy, fluency and complexity. The evaluation of writing, accuracy, fluency and complexity can not only measure the writing achievement of L2 writers, but also reflect their writing ability. Based on the complexity of writing, this study adopts the dynamic system theory to investigate the multidimensional development of written English complexity. Three sophomores of high-level non-English majors in a university are selected as subjects to track the development and interaction patterns of eight linguistic complexity indices in 21 essays over three semesters at three levels: lexical construction, sentence construction and phrase construction. The results show that the change and development of subjects in this respect are not linear, but there are peaks, troughs, progress and regression. The development of written language has obvious dynamic and variability.
The Assessment of Soil Quality Index for Paddy Fields with Indicator Biology in Jatipurno Districts, Wonogirl
Authors: Supriyadi Supriyadi , Sih Dewi Widyatmani , Nugrahani Desmiasari , Rahmah Adila Azza , Haryuni Haryuni , Sumani Sumani
Published: December 2019

Increased rice needs in an extensive use of paddy fields in the Jatipurno, Wonogiri. Managing rice fields can reduce soil quality. Proper management can improve soil quality, Jatipurno has management such as organic, semi-organic and inorganic paddy field management which have a real effect on soil quality. Assessment of soil quality is measured by physical, chemical and biological indicators, where each factor has a different effect. The chemical indicators are often used as the main indicators for determining soil quality, whereas every parameter has the opportunity to be the main indicator. So, biological indicators can play indicators. The main indicators are obtained from the correlation test (p-values ≤ 0,05 - < 0,01) and Principal Component Analysis with high value, eigenvalues > 1 have the potential to be used as Minimum Data Sets. The result is biological can be able to use as the Minimum Data Set such as microbial carbon biomass, respiration, and total bacterial colonies. The Soil Quality Index (SQI) of various paddy management practices shows very low to low soil quality values. The management of organic rice systems shows better Soil Quality Index with a score of 0,20 compared to other management. The practice of organic rice management shows that it can improve soil quality.
Utilização de Recursos Educacionais Digitais (RED) em Aulas de Língua Portuguesa nos Anos Finais do Ensino Fundamental: Contribuições e Desafios
Authors: Hitzschky Rayssa Araújo , Arruda Juliana Silva , Lima Cintia Arruda , Siqueira Liliane Maria Ramalho de Castro , de Castro Filho José Aires
Published: December 2019

Este estudo busca investigar a utilização de RED de Língua Portuguesa, selecionados após um curso de formação docente, em aulas empreendidas nos anos finais do Ensino Fundamental. Para isso, foram realizadas as seguintes ações de pesquisa: 1) Oferta de uma formação de professores; 2) Seleção de RED de Língua Portuguesa disponíveis em um repositório educacional digital; 3) Planejamento e realização de aulas com os RED selecionados. Verificou-se a importância do momento formativo oferecido para o fortalecimento da mediação pedagógica durante o uso dos RED, bem como do planejamento prévio e da intencionalidade pedagógica. Para além da utilização dos recursos, os alunos puderam aproveitar o caráter multifacetário das TIC, fortalecendo a autonomia discente.
A Gamificação como Estratégia para a Educação em Segurança e Saúde no Trabalho em ECITs na Paraíba
Authors: Borges Fábio Morais , Silva Lebiam Tamar Gomes , Tavares Milena Trigueiro , de Oliveira Juliana Moreira , Cipriano João Pedro dos Santos
Published: December 2019

Este trabalho apresenta o relato de experiência de um projeto de extensão universitária, cujo objetivo geral foi o de produzir e disseminar conhecimentos sobre Segurança no Trabalho, de forma inovadora, com estudantes da 1ª. e da 2a. séries do ensino médio de escolas técnicas da Paraíba. A gamificação, prática de aplicar elementos de jogos em ambientes que não são de jogos, foi a estratégia metodológica escolhida para a elaboração das duas atividades gamificadas propostas: Quizz e Caça ao tesouro. Os recursos didáticos empregados para a aprendizagem dos conteúdos foram uma revista eletrônica (Issuu), plataforma virtual Kahoot, QR Codes, mapas do tesouro e cartões de perguntas e respostas. Depois de aplicar as atividades gamificadas do projeto, verificou-se que houve o envolvimento e a aprendizagem dos estudantes em relação ao tema abordado.
Astroem para Professores e o Ensino de Matemática: Iniciação à Linguagem da Programação por Meio da Robótica
Authors: de Oliveira Claudia Lozada , Celestino Claudia Celeste , Góis Wesley
Published: December 2019

Neste trabalho trazemos um relato sobre a importância da formação continuada de professores em lógica e linguagem da programação, principalmente dadas as previsões da BNCC para Matemática. Mesmo que a escola disponha de recursos como laboratório de informática, a capacitação é necessária, e muitos recursos educacionais podem servir de veículo para o ensino da linguagem da programação, como é o caso da Robótica. Os resultados acerca da utilização preliminar do Robomind mostraram-se satisfatórios e sendo corroborados pelas atividades posteriores com o Lego NXT e o Scratch, etapas posteriores nas quais os professores passaram a apresentar maior domínio da linguagem da programação.
Café com Saúde: Podcast como Ferramenta de Ensino nos Cursos de Saúde
Authors: Gomes Rayana M. C. M. , Alencar Mariana P. , Santos Maria Júlia M. N. , da Silva Rosivan S. , Messias Júlio B. , Florêncio Mônica S.
Published: December 2019

O presente artigo descreve o Projeto Café com Saúde, uma experiência pedagógica pioneira, que utiliza o podcast como vetor de democratização do conhecimento acadêmico. Foram desenvolvidas áudio-aulas direcionadas a estudantes de nível superior dos cursos de saúde, abordando temas como histologia, imunologia, genética, biologia celular, dentre outros assuntos comuns à grade curricular destes cursos. O projeto contou com revisão bibliográfica, elaboração de roteiros didáticos, gravação, edição, divulgação e reuniões de equipe. Os resultados se mostraram relevantes, atingindo com eficiência o seu público alvo e fortalecendo o uso do podcast como ferramenta educacional.
Desafios da Gestão de uma Creche no Uso Pedagógico das TDIC e Alinhamento com a BNCC
Authors: da Cunha Amanda Caroline Marques , de Lira Flavia Luiza
Published: December 2019

O estudo tem por objetivo analisar as estratégias e propostas de formação docente adotadas pela gestão de uma creche, frente ao uso pedagógico das TDIC de modo a atender o que está proposto na BNCC. O percurso metodológico possui um caráter qualitativo, onde nos utilizamos de alguns de elementos da análise de discurso. Para isto realizamos uma entrevista, na qual analisamos no discurso das profissionais o nível de conhecimento das suas atribuições e o alinhamento com a BNCC. Os resultados revelam um corpo gestor atuante, que busca atender os anseios da comunidade escolar na construção e condução do PPP, porém há uma lacuna no desenvolvimento de estratégias e articulação com os docentes.
Um Boom de Mídias na Infância: Reflexões acerca do Uso de Tecnologias Digitais na Educação Infantil
Authors: Ferreira Gabryelle Chaves , da Silva Maria Auricélia , Garcia Thiago de Sousa
Published: December 2019

Este estudo investiga os interesses de crianças da Educação Infantil pelo uso de recursos digitais fora da escola, a forma como elas usam esses instrumentos em seu cotidiano e o tempo que consomem em atividades dessa natureza em comparação com outra pesquisa, realizada em 2016. O paradigma interpretativo e a abordagem quali-quantitativa constituíram o principal pilar da pesquisa. Os dados foram coletados por meio de um questionário aplicado aos familiares das crianças, com a finalidade de sondar os interesses e usos que elas fazem dos recursos digitais aos quais têm acesso. Os resultados indicaram que as crianças mostram grande proximidade com as tecnologias digitais, o que possibilita utilizá-las como recurso pedagógico.
A Relação entre a Ludicidade e a Cognição em um Jogo para o Controle Inibitório
Authors: Rodrigues Ariane N. , Torcate Arianne Sarmento , Santos Claudimara C.
Published: December 2019

O artigo apresenta um jogo para trabalhar o controle inibitório, como um dos componentes das funções executivas importante para a aprendizagem. Associado a uma pesquisa de conclusão de um curso de Licenciatura em Computação, o jogo relaciona as perspectivas da Psicologia e Computação, e foi desenvolvido sob orientação de especialistas das áreas. O artigo enfatiza a importância da ludicidade com eventos especiais e sua relação com os objetivos do jogo para ativar processos cognitivos adequados como estratégia para estimular comportamentos associados a esta função executiva durante a interação.
Plataforma Significa: Visibilidade à Aprendizagem em Metodologias Ativas
Authors: Thuler Diego , Oliveira Paula R. P. , dos Santos Karoline F. , Pomari Elisa , Lopes Lucas O.
Published: December 2019

A partir da necessidade social crescente de pensar a educação de uma maneira atrelado à experiência, o artigo traz um relato das vivências e pensamentos que perpassam a metodologia da Little Maker cujo objetivo é dar visibilidade à aprendizagem por meio da construção de projetos autorais e significativos. Assim, um dos desafios que tentamos abordar foi a sistematização da coleta de informações acerca do processo de criação com o intuito de evidenciar o aprendizado através da documentação em portfólio digital, do mapeamento de parâmetros e da apresentação dos resultados com indicadores objetivos. Para isso, são compartilhadas as estratégias que pautaram o desenvolvimento de uma plataforma digital a fim de estabelecer uma relação fluida da aprendizagem, bem como documentação e coleta de informações do processo.
Role-Playing Games Digitais e Ensino-Aprendizagem com Adolescentes em Contexto Escolar: Interfaces Histórico-Culturais e Psicanalíticas
Authors: de Lima Junior Fernando R. , de A. e Peres Flávia M. , Caporal Ladjane de F. R.
Published: December 2019

Apresenta-se revisão de literatura, com fundamentos dialéticos entre a psicologia histórico-cultural e a psicanálise, com o objetivo de refletir a potencialidade dos Role-playing games (RPG) digitais como instrumento de ensino-aprendizagem com adolescentes em contexto escolar. Embasa-se em uma concepção sociointeracionista de educação, pensada a partir dos postulados vygotskyanos e da psicanálise, para: expor as origens e a jogabilidade dos RPG, também em sua condição digital, e defender a utilização desses jogos como instrumentos pedagógicos que permitem a internalização (Vygotsky) de conteúdos escolares, considerando a identificação (Lacan) engendrada pelo desejo na construção de tais conteúdos.
Tecnologias Digitais nos Processos de Ensino e Aprendizagem dos Conteúdos Escolares: Compreensão dos(as) Licenciandos(as) da Disciplina Tecnodocência
Authors: Soares Deyse Mara Romualdo , Teles Gabriela , Loureiro Robson Carlos , de Lima Luciana , Mercado Luís Paulo Leopoldo
Published: December 2019

No cenário atual das TDICs na sociedade desafiam práticas pedagógicas, a formação inicial de professores demandando novas abordagens e métodos de ensino. Este artigo tem o objetivo descrever a perspectiva dos alunos de cursos de Licenciatura, da disciplina optativa Tecnodocência ofertada pela Universidade Federal do Ceará (UFC), no período de 2018.2, acerca de como as tecnologias digitais de informação e comunicação (TDICs) estão presentes no processo de ensino-aprendizagem dos conteúdos que pretendem trabalhar na sua profissão docente. Baseia-se no estudo de caso como metodologia e subdivide-se em três etapas: planejamento, coleta e análise de dados. Observa-se que modificaram sua perspectiva, refletindo mais criticamente sobre a integração das TDICs.
Jogos Digitais como Estratégia para Desenvolver o Pensamento Computacional nos Anos Finais do Ensino Fundamental
Authors: Silva Valéria Maria dos Santos , Diniz Juliana Regueira Basto , França Sônia Virgínia Alves
Published: December 2019

É possível encontrar vários trabalhos que relatam o uso de jogos digitais em sala de aula com o objetivo de ensinar conceitos de ciência da computação. Na realização de algumas pesquisas os professores aplicam os jogos digitais em sala de aula com o objetivo de desenvolver o pensamento computacional nos alunos. Este artigo apresenta uma revisão sistemática de literatura, que teve como objetivo identificar artigos publicados entre o período de 2014-2018. Na análise dos resultados, foram identificadas vantagens e desvantagens na utilização dos jogos, bem como foram elencadas um conjunto de atividades para aplicação de pesquisa de campo numa escola, da zona da Mata do estado de Pernambuco. Os resultados da primeira etapa da pesquisa de campo também são apresentados como achados da pesquisa através de um experimento com 25 alunos do 9º ano do Ensino Fundamental II.
Um Estudo Comparativo entre Simuladores Computacionais para Apoio à Disciplina de Arquitetura e Organização de Computadores
Authors: Esmeraldo Guilherme , Mendes Cícero Samuel , Fontes Lucas , Lisboa Edson
Published: December 2019

Este artigo apresenta um estudo comparativo de simuladores utilizados para apoio à disciplina de arquitetura e organização de computadores, a fim de identificar, de acordo com um conjunto de métricas preestabelecidas, suas potencialidades e deficiências no processo de ensino-aprendizagem, bem como se possibilitam a aquisição de habilidades práticas, as quais são fundamentais para o exercício da profissão. De acordo com os resultados, pôde-se constatar que a maioria dos simuladores não atendem às métricas utilizadas e que há necessidade de maiores esforços com o objetivo de tratar aspectos de acessibilidade e metodológicos.
Programando a Várias Mãos: um Relato de Experiência da Construção Colaborativa de Algoritmos
Authors: da Silva Júnior Aladir Ferreira , Moraes Leizer Fernandes , de Souza Rita Rodrigues
Published: December 2019

Neste artigo se compartilha um relato de experiência com o uso do Google Docs em prática educativa. Pesquisas científicas têm mostrado que há barreiras na construção do aprendizado de alunos de cursos superiores, especialmente quanto ao desenvolvimento da habilidade de se programar computadores. Os conteúdos fundamentais para a realização dessa atividade talvez não estejam sendo apresentados de modo a favorecer o aprendizado. Seguindo o proposto na abordagem da Aprendizagem Colaborativa, aplicou-se uma atividade de resolução de problemas mediada pelo Google Docs com três turmas iniciais do ensino superior e foi possível constatar que no auxílio ao ensino-aprendizagem de Algoritmos, este apresenta resultados promissores.
Narrativas Audiovisuais, Patrimônio Cultural e Comunicação Pública: Oficina de Produção de Vídeos com Celular, em Igarassu/PE
Authors: de F. e Silva Raphael , de Almeida Gustavo H. O. , Alves Thelma P.
Published: December 2019

Este artigo está inserido grupo de pesquisa Mídias e Mediações Interculturais do EDUMATEC/UFPE, consistindo na descrição de uma oficina realizada pela EPC (Empresa Pernambuco de Comunicação), a pedido do Iphan, na cidade de Igarassu/PE, objetivando educar os agentes da cultura popular, artesãos e moradores do município, com noções para produção audiovisual com celular, utilizando o patrimônio cultural como temática e promovendo um debate com a comunicação pública. Este trabalho possui uma abordagem qualitativa, com método baseado em estudo de caso e objetivo descritivo. Os dados para este artigo vêm da observação participante e análise dos vídeos produzidos.