bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Academic Motivations of Pregrade Students in the Choice of International Business Career
Authors: Vicente-Ramos Wagner Enoc , Gonzales Silva Brenda , Nuñez Merino Shirley Teresa , Paucar Lazo Silvana Marjorie , Mejia Álvarez Christian Richard
Published: January 2020

The main objective of this research is to determine which is the most recurrent motivation by university students choose international business careers at 8 universities in Peru. The study sample is composed by 1242 international business students from the main universities in Peru. For this study, the Academic Motivation Scale (AMC) was used, this scale considers intrinsic motivation factors (knowledge, achievement, stimulating experiences), extrinsic motivation (identified regulation, introjected regulation, external introjected) and amotivation.As a result, the research shows that the students wanted to achieve their goals (84%), because it is aligned to their dreams (83%), also that they want to show to other people that they are capable to generate business opportunities (81%). On the other hand, the main demotivations were the fact that they don’t care and just want to finish the career (10%), they didn’t know which career choose (13%) and they didn’t know the reason why they choose this career (15%).It is concludes that the factors of academic motivations (motivation, extrinsic motivations and intrinsic motivations) are positively related to the choice of the international business career. Where the most significant relationship is that between extrinsic motivation with external regulation and the choice of the international commercial career, to achieve its objectives such as giving a more positive image to family and friends. While the least significant relationship is that between the intrinsic motivation for stimulating experiences and the choice of an international business career.
LAPAROSCOPIC APPENDECTOMY BECOMES THE METHOD OF CHOICE IN THE TREATMENT OF ACUTE APPENDICITIS
Authors: Delibegovic Samir , Matovic Ervin
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Laparoscopic appendectomy becomes a usual method in the treatment of acute appendicitis, although its advantage over open appendectomy has been proven. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, a few medical centers are introducing laparoscopic appendectomy as a method of treatment of acute appendicitis. In this study we want to compare different methods of treatment of acute appendicitis. Patients and Methods: During 20 months we have analyzed 498 patients operated due to acute appendicitis. We followed the duration of operation, total hospitalization stay, complications of surgical procedure and reasons of conversion in patients operated by laparoscopic approach. Results: The duration of operation was 96 minutes in the group operated by open approach and 107 minutes in the group operated by laparoscopic approach. Total hospitalization stay was 3.9. days in the group operated by open approach and 2.3. days in the group operated by laparoscopic approach. The most frequent complication in the group operated by open approach was infection of the operative wound (56/452) and ileus (5/452), and in the group operated by laparosocopic approach ileus (1/46) was the most frequent complication. Conclusion: The patients operated by laparoscopic approach have fewer risk of wound infection, and the hospital stay is shorter. With the increase of surgeon’s experience this method of treatment of acute appendicitis will become a method of choice.
EARLY PROGNOSIS OF SUBARACHINOID HAEMORRHAGE
Authors: Vidovic Mirjana , Smajlovic Dzevdet , Sinanovic Osman
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Subarachnoid haemorrhage presents urgent state in neurology, with dramatic clinical picture and high mortality. Aim of this study was to analize role of the risk factors in prognosis of patients with spontaneous subarachnoidal haemorrhage. Patients and Methods: It was analyzed 48 patients with spontaneous subarachnoidal haemorrhage which are cured on Neurological clinic in Tuzla in period from January 1. 2001 till December 31. 2002. Mean age of patients was 57.6 +/-12. years. Results: It was shown that the most frequent risk factors were hypertension (72.9%), heart diseases (54.1%) and smoking (39.6%). From all 48, 21 (43.7%) patients died. At survived patients, one month from begining of disease, cases. Survived had significant lower mean age (p= .009) and Hunt Hess score (p=0.001) at admission than the died. Patients with complexity find by computed tomography had bad prognosis. Conclusion: Older age of patients, higher number of risk factors, higher Hunt Hess score at admission, and blood in the ventricular system on CT are risk factors for poor prognosis of patients with subarachnoidal haemorrhage.
CLINICAL USE OF NATRIURETIC PEPTIDES. A REVIEW
Authors: Bajric Mugdim , Barakovic Fahir , Sinanovic Nusret , Mrsic Denis
Published: January 2020

The most significant discoveries in the area of heart failure are the recognition of natriuretic peptide system and its multiple effects on cardiac structure and function with special effect on its natriuretic and hemodynamic processes. First information’s that heart, beside its function as a mechanical pump also has an important endocrine functions, exists for over 50 years. Chemical structure of atrial natriuretic peptide has been identified in 1984. and four years later a brain natriuretic peptide has been discovered owning its name because it has been identified in pig brain. Primary site of brain natriuretic peptide synthesis in heart has been identified in 1991. Natriuretic peptides are neither neurohormones that influence body fluid homeostasis through natriuretic and diuretic effect; regulate vascular tone by decreasing angiotensine II level and they inhibit nor epinephrine synthesis and increase parasympathetic tone. They are natural antagonists of renin-angiotensine-aldosteron system, and they have a great role in inhibition of ventricular hypertrophy and remodeling, protective effects in endothelial dysfunction are important; they increase effects of nitrite oxide, inhibit lipid deposition in vascular wall and inhibit thrombocyte activation, regulate coagulation and fibrinolytic processes as well. Natriuretic peptides clinical use is in early evaluation of heart failure, prognostic stratification and detection of systolic and diastolic dysfunction of left ventricle, assessment of prognosis during patient monitoring period, differential diagnosis of dyspnea, treatment adjustment and dosage titration, assessment during hospital admittance and discharge and forecast and reduction of coronary events.
GASTRIC MALT LYMPHOMA AND HELYCOBACTER PYLORI INFECTION
Authors: Arnautovic-Custovic Aida , Cickusic Elmir , Zildzic Muharem , Smajic Midhat
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Gastric MALT lymphoma accounts aproximately 7% of all gastric tumors. Women are mostly affected by this disease (mean age 60 years). The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of gastric MALT lymphoma in the Endoscopy Unit of the Department of Gastroenterology Of University Clinical Center Tuzla, the degree of histological malignancy and correlation with the Helycobacter pylori infection and then to evaluate the effectiveness of triple-antibiotic therapy (protonic pump inhibitors and antacides) in treatment of these cases. Patients and methods: All the patiens in the study were performed with gastroscopy and mucosal tissue biopsy in the Endoscopy Unit of the Department of Gastroenterology of UKC Tuzla. PHD and IHH analysis of the given material were performed in the Patology Department of UKC Tuzla. The blood analyses on H. Pylori were done in the Department of Microbiology of UKC Tuzla. Results: 112 patients with gastric tumors were involved in this study, 91 of whom suffered from malignant tumors, six of them had MALT lymphoma (five of them had confirmed H. pylori infection, four had histologically confirmed low-grade tumors and two was categorised as high grade malignancies). Histological lesions were classified according to the actual Ann Arbor classification. Patients with high malignancy risk underwent the operative procedures, and then were treated by polychemiotherapy (CHOP protocole, VI-VIII cikluses). All the patients with confirmed H. pylori infection were treated with antibiotics for 2-4 months, after which complete eradication was accomplished in all cases. Patients histologicaly diagnosed with low grade malignancy showed complete histological regression. In addition to that, after triple antibiotic therapy none of the patients presented with the disease transformation into another histological form. Discussion and Conclusion: The results of this study prooved high incidence in use of triple antibiotic therapy in treatment of patients who suffer from MALT lymphoma with confirmed H. pylori infection. Besides, it is very important to emphasise the fact that patients had no side-effects during polychemiotherapy which was used to treat all the patients regardless of their histological type and malignancy degree of MALT lymphoma.
ARNOLD – CHIARI MALFORMATION AND SYRINGOMYELIA
Authors: Burina Adnan , Smajlovic Dzevdet , Sinanovic Osman , Vidovic Mirjana , Ibrahimagic Omer C
Published: January 2020

Generally, Arnold – Chiari malformation associated with syringomyelia is not rare. In this case report we present a 52 years old female patient with a history of neck-pain, low-back pain, pain in both arms as well as frequent numbness in the lateral regions of both arms. She also experienced walk disturbance and in her previous history she reports a car accident, twenty-eight years ago. She broke windshield with her forehead, but remained conscious at the time. At the time of admittance at the Department of Neurology, her neurological status was remarkable for cerebellar symptomatology (ataxia, positive Romberg-sign, «finger–nose» test which she did with tremor and was not able to perform «tandem-walk»), hypoestesia of the right side of the body, hyper-reflection of both arms and legs, bilaterally, more pronounced at the right side; right foot subclonus and spastic-ataxic walk. Neurological status could not be explained by previously performed tests: x-ray of cervical spine, lumbal myelography, computerized tomography (CT) of the brain. However, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and cervical spine verified Arnold-Chiari malformation (type I) associated with syringomyelia from C3 to C7. Patient was referred to surgery and subsequent physical rehabilitation.
Tactile and hearing sensitivity of children with and without autism using the sensory profile and DSM-5
Authors: Demirović Bahira , Mujezinović Amila , Bećarević Munevera , Demirović Nermin , Bećarević Nejra , Dizdarević Alma , Bratovčić Vesna
Published: January 2020

Background: Children with autism in their characteristics show a series of unusual reactions to stimuli in all areas of the sensory system. Aim: The aim of this paper was to compare the tactile and auditory processes, i.e. to determine the deficits of these processes by children with autism spectrum disorder (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ed.) in relation to children with intellectual disabilities and children of the typical population. Methods: The sample consisted of a total of 105 children. During the survey, the method of proportional stratified sample was used and the data collection was carried out in 2017 on the entire territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Short Sensory Profile was applied (Dunn, 1999) and through 13 items, Tactile Perception and Hearing Perception were examined. Results: It was found that 71.4% of children with autism had significant difficulties in the area of tactile perception and 65.7% in the area of hearing perception. Tactile and hearing sensitivity is also common by children with intellectual disabilities, which undermines the inclusion of the difficulty of sensory processing as a key diagnostic criterion for autism.
Application of dendrimers and quantum dots in cancer diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Horozić Emir
Published: January 2020

The use of nanotechnology in the diagnosis of diseases, treatment and monitoring of cancer patients has become a subject of study for the last 20 years. This paper presents brief overview of general characteristics, synthesis and application of dendrimers and quantum points in oncology. Dendrimers and quantum dots are nanostructures whose application in oncology is still being examined. QDs are used in magnetic resonance, wherein very well detect the location of tumor. Dendrimers are intensively tested, especially in cancer therapy. Dendrimers are intensively tested, especially in cancer therapy, because, due to their extremely small dimensions, they have the ability to pass through the mucous barriers and vascular pores, enabling safe delivery of the drug to the tumor cells.
Importance of screening in the prevention of emergence and spread of MDR bacteria
Authors: Numanović Fatima , Smajlović Jasmina , Čičko Elsada , Delibegović Zineta , Gegić Merima , Kikanović Hanka , Bećirović Amela , Halilović Emir , Kutlovac Mubera , Džanić Indira
Published: January 2020

Background: Colonization is the presence of bacteria in the intestines, skin, nose, throat or anywhere in the human body without any signs of infection but with increased risk for spreading bacteria to other patients and the emergence of new infections. Screening of colonized patients is used as part of the prevention and control of multidrug-resistant (MDR) infections caused by agents such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis and multi-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Material and methods: Data from 169 screened respondents hospitalized at the University Clinical Center Tuzla, between October 1, 2018, and May 1, 2019, were analyzed. Swabs were taken from nostrils, throat, axilla and groin area for all patients, and also from the anorectal area for 157 of them. Identification of MDR bacteria was done by phenotypical methods, according to the recommendations of EUCAST Clinical Breakpoint Table v.8.0, 2018. Results: Out of 169 patients, negative screening test results were found in 93 examinees (55.02%), and positive in 76 (44.97%). The largest number of patients undergoing screening was hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit (Surgical Block), 73/169 (43.19%). The average screening time was 2.2 days or 53 hours. In 18/76 (23.68%) of patients with positive screening, prior to screening regular microbiological testing was done, and in the remaining 58/76 (76.3%) screening was performed first. Analyzing respondents with positive screening, 27 (35.53%) had negative findings during regular microbiological testing of different biological samples and for 49 (64.47%) different/same strains of MDR bacteria were isolated.Conclusion: Knowing the phenotypic profile of bacteria colonizing patients in intensive care units is a very useful tool in preventing their spread intra- and inter-hospitals.
Distribution of hepatitis C virus genotypes and subtypes in a group of patients with chronic hepatitis C from Canton Sarajevo, 2012-2018
Authors: Salimović- Bešić Irma , Kahriman Adna , Arapčić Suzana , Dedeić- Ljubović Amela
Published: January 2020

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes and subtypes exhibit significant geographic variations.Aim: To analyse the distribution of genotypes/subtypes of HCV in a group of patients with chronic hepatitis C from Canton Sarajevo during 2012-2018.Material and methods:The study enrolled 247 human plasma samples of HCV-RNA positive patients with available results of HCV genotyping test.Results: During 2012-2018, the domination of subtypes 1a (34.01%), 1b (28.34%) and genotype 3 (23.89%) was registered. In 2012 and 2013, HCV subtype 1a was the most common (27/63; 42.86% and 17/40; 42.50%, respectively). In 2014, the leading HCV genotype/subtype were 3 and 1b (17/57; 29.82%). In 2015, the dominance of HCV genotype 3 (14/39; 35.90%) continued, while in 2016, the same number of HCV subtypes 1a and 1b (11/30; 36.67%) was recorded. Although in a small number of tested, during 2017, HCV subtype 1b was the most prevalent (7/14; 50.00%), and in 2018, it was replaced by a HCV subtype 1a (3/4; 75.00%). Distribution of HCV genotypes/subtypes by age group of patients varied significantly (p=0.000). The largest number of patients (71/247; 28.74%) belonged to the age category 30-39 years and HCV genotypes/subtypes 1, 3, 4, 1a and 1b were identified. Except in 2017, male gender significantly dominated (p=0.000). In males, HCV subtype 1a (68/170; 40.00%) was the most common, while in women it was HCV subtype 1b (44/77; 57.14%).Conclusion: This six-year retrospective study showed the time variations of the circulating HCV genotypes/subtypes among patients with chronic hepatitis C in Canton Sarajevo. Genotyping of the HCV has an important implications for diagnosis and treatment of the patients.
Frequency and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of hospital isolates of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae in urine samples
Authors: Jukić Ivana , Topić Danijel , Đulić El-Jesah , Dedeić- Ljubović Amela
Published: January 2020

Objectives/Aim: Urinary tract infections (UTI) are a serious public health problem and caused by many pathogens, most often by Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.Aim of this study was to show the frequency and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of E. coli and K. pneumoniae in hospital isolates, following the GLASS methodology.Methods: This is a retrospective study that was conducted in the Laboratory for Urinary Infections OU Clinical Microbiology CCUS in the period from January till December 2018.A total of 13760 urine samples were processed, using standard laboratory methods, in which significant bacteriuria was detected in 3218 (23.4%) of specimens.Results: Out of the total number of positive samples, E. coli was isolated in 1166 (36.2%) and K. pneumoniae at 341 (10.6%) patients. The presence of E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates is dominant in females (1103/73.2%) and age group 60 and older (812/54.7%). Out of the total E. coli isolates, the ESBL strain was presented with 79 (6.8%) and K. pneumoniae with 145 (42.5%). The proportion of carbapenemase (CPE) produced by K. pneumoniae isolates was 8 (2.4%). The ESBL strain distribution analysis on clinics showed the highest prevalence of both isolates at the Clinic for Nephrology: K. pneumoniae 26/17,9%; E. coli: 12/15.4%. Isolated E. coli showed the highest resistance to ampicillin 673/1166 (57,7%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole 454/1166 (38.9%) and ciprofloxacin 253/970 (26.1%), while K. pneumoniae to ciprofloxacin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole with 151/285 (53.0%) and 164/341 (48.1%), respectively.Conclusions: Our study has shown that the most common cause of urinary infections in hospital settings are E. coli and K. pneumoniae. Data analysis showed that the presence of ESBL isolates was significantly higher in K. pneumoniae than E. coli. CPE isolates of K. pneumoniae were also detected.
Presence of heavy metals in the soil of urban areas of Lukavac and Kalesija and malignant disease prevalence
Authors: Brekalo Lazarević Sanja , Handžić Edina , Đozić Abdel , Lazarević Ivana , Ademović Zahida , Jusufović Edin
Published: January 2020

The development of industry, agriculture, transport and urbanization has resulted in excessive emissions of heavy metals into the environment, which due to their bioaccumulative properties express negative effects on the environment and living organisms as a whole. In this work the presence of heavy metals in the soil samples of the urban area of Lukavac and Kalesija municipality and their effect on the health of the population were studied. Soil samples were collected in October 2017 at five locations in the urban area of Lukavac municipality and two urban locations in Kalesija municipality. Concentrations of chromium (Cr) copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) in the soil samples were determined. The results indicated that in some locations the concentration of heavy metals exceeded the maximum permissible concentration (MPC). MPC value for chromium was exceeded at four locations in the urban area of Lukavac, whereas MPC value for nickel and cadmium was exceeded at all locations. In Kalesija, MPC value was exceeded for chromium and nickel at one location, while cadmium MPC was exceeded at both locations. The negative impact of heavy metals on the health of the population is the cause of many malignant diseases. Statistical analysis of the number of patients with malignant diseases in the area of the Lukavac and Kalesija revealed significantly higher prevalence of malignant diseases of the lungs, breast, skin and cervix in the Lukavac (p<0,05) in comparisson to Kalesija municipality.
JUSTIFICATION OF RADIOLOGICAL PROCEDURES ALGORITHM ADJUSTMENT IN DIAGNOSIS OF LOWER BACK PAIN CAUSE AT UNIVERSITY CLINICAL CENTER TUZLA
Authors: Denjagić Aida
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Lower Back Pain (LBP) is one of the most frequent reasons for visiting physican. Authors of guidelines scrutinizing use of radiography and Computed tomography (CT) or Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in LBP diagnostic. Method of choice in the LBP diagnostic should be MRI except in cases where we should get diagnostic informations as soon as possible (traumas etc.) and in strict indications in bone structures where CT should be a method of choice. Increase of CT use and following icrease CT derived radiation dose in patients are very serious problems of last decades. Aim: To show the nessesary of procedure algorithm adjusment in LBP diagnostic. Reasons are: danger of overdiagnosis leading to chronifications, loosing time and money to get exact diagnose and leading to cumulate very high ionizing doses (10 mSv per person with average body weight from lumbar spine CT) that could couse a cancer if it is over 100 mSv (in some studies if it is over 50 mSv).  Patients and methods: Sixty-nine patients, average age of 51.35 years, were included in the study. Lumbar spine CT was performed and repeated procedure at MRI in a very short time in Clinic for Radiology and Nuclear Medicine of University Clinical Centre Tuzla from January 1 2017 to February 9 2018. The sample of patients was formed consecutively. Referral diagnosis for CT procedures were: M51 in 36 patients (52.17%), N/A in 13 (18.84%), M05 in 4 (5.8%), G83.4 in 3 (4.35%) and other in 13 (18.84%). Results: 30 (83.33%) of patients were referred from CT to MRI procedure in time under 42 days (during acute phase). Relation of justified and unjustified undertaken CT procedures were: 71% unjustified, 10% justified and 19% N/A.Conclusion: Performed study showed unjustified undertaken CT procedures and high unnecessary radiation dose in 71% patients. There are justified reasons for procedure algorithm adjusment in LBP diagnostic. Key words: lower back pain, diagnostic procedure algorithm, CT, MRI
Health and Safety Issues in Children with Intellectual Disability
Authors: Bećarević Munevera , Dizdarević Alma , Ahmetović Zulfo , Mujezinović Amila , Omerkić Esed
Published: January 2020

Background: People with intellectual disability, have been shown to become high and frequent users of primary health care services—both general population health professionals and intellectual disability specialists. Aim: The aim of this paper has been to assess differences of Health and Safety Activities children with intellectual disabilities on the Supports Intensity Scale-Children’s Version and to confirm assumptions that support needs are confounded with age, IQ andgender.Methods:The sample included 377 children with intellectual disabilities in Bosnia and Herzegovina aged 5-16. Most respondents also had the presence of other, concurrent conditions and disorders. Using IQ, the sample was equalized to the level of intellectual functioning, and this data was obtained from the findings and opinions of the Commission for the Categorization of Children with Special Needs.Results:It was found at the multivariate level there are statistically significant differences between respondents of different ages and IQ in values of type, frequency and time of duration of support. No significant differences between boys and girls were identified at the multivariate level. Healthcare professionals and intellectual disability specialists must work as a team to guarantee any person with intellectual disability possibility to come as close as possible to the standard levels of well-being and health-related quality of life of the general population.
Children vs elderly in orthopedic surgery site of infection. Are there difference? Experience of a high volume plastic surgeon consultant.
Authors: Franzese Raffaele , Conte Michele , Gagliardo Nicola , Pieretti Gorizio
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Prevention of surgical site infection in surgery and bone trauma has some hallmarks not shared with other surgical disciplines. The surgeon is not always able to open the pathogen and a key to correct therapy. The aim of our work is to verify if there are differences between pathogens, and treatment between the two groups most susceptible to skin infections by means of synthesis such as children and the elderly. Materials and Methods: From January 2011 to december 2018, we perform 3189 consultancies in various departments of orthopedics and traumatology. From the exclusion criteria we recruited 168 patients with superficial infection of the surgical site after orthopedic surgery. A group represented by children (under 12 years old) and a group of older people over 65. The evaluation criteria between the two groups were: the infectious bacterial flora; the type of antibiotic, the duration of antibiotic therapy; the type of medications used in the post-operative period, the complications.Results:The results showed that elderly patients are more likely to be bacterial superinfection due to poor hygiene. Therapy in children is shorter and has minor complications. Proper management of the surgical site showed a rapid resolution of the infection in both groups. Conclusion: The correct management and hygiene of the surgical site allows its rapid recovery from infection. The plastic surgeon management of the fracture site infection can be a winning weapon in the treatment of this problem both in the child and in the elderly.
SUCCESS RATE OF STRABISMUS SURGERY IN ADULT PATIENTS
Authors: Alajbegovic-Halimic Jasmina , Jovanovic Nina , Halimic Tarik
Published: January 2020

Background ̸Purpose. Adults as well as children may have problems with strabismus, which can significantly affects on quality of social and professional life. Strabismus surgery in adults are not conditioned for years of a patient, and the main goal of this kind of surgery is to improve motoric-senzorial relationship of eyes, and to improve esthetic moment of a patient. Patients&Methods. A surgical review was performed on 35 adult patients with strabismus in period between January 2016 - May 2018 years. The type of strabismus, preoperative measurements, and indications for surgery were obtained from the patient notes, as were all final outcomes. Final measurements, on average, were 3 to 6 weeks postoperatively, and patients were asked to comment subjectively on their outcome. Results. In total number 35 of adult strabismic patients, were 12 (34,3%) male and 23 (65,7%) female,  mean age 34,15±13 ( 20 to 67 years), 17 patiens (48,6%) were exotropic, esotropic 11 (31,4%) patiens, and hypertropic 7 (20%) patients. Indication for surgery in the most cases were aesthetic 28 (80%). The success rate is measured by number of orthophoric patients with less than 10 prism diopters 31 (88,6%), stereoacuity 22 (62,9%) and patient satisfaction 30 (85,7%). Conclusion. Adult strabismus surgery is very  successful and provides patients with a good level of satisfaction. Many patients seek surgical correction for cosmetic and psychosocial benefits.Keywords; adult, strabismus, success, surgery
Towards Ethically Responsive Online Education: Variables and Strategies from Educators’ Perspective
Authors: Aldosemani Tahani I.
Published: January 2020

The main purpose of this study is to quantitatively identify the most recurrent ethical challenges instructors usually encounter in their online teaching and the most effective strategies to solve and avoid these challenges. Among the faculty members, 52% stated that they encountered certain ethical challenges in their teaching. Although ANOVA tests showed that there is no significant difference between instructors with different academic degrees and different teaching experiences. This shows that that the probability of these challenges could occur in online learning environments regardless instructors’ academic degree or online teaching experiences.
Assessing tree-related microhabitat retention according to a harvest gradient using tree-defect surveys as proxies in Eastern Canadian mixedwood forests
Authors: Maxence Martin , Raymond Patricia
Published: January 2020

Tree-related microhabitats (hereafter “TreMs”) play a key role in forest biodiversity. However, harvesting may cause their erosion. In North America, knowledge about TreMs is still lacking but defect surveys are largely available in managed forests. The objectives of our study were: (1) to demonstrate that defect surveys can be a reliable resource to identify TreMs; and, (2)to evaluate the capacity of silvicultural treatments to maintain TreM abundance and diversity according to a harvest gradient.To achieve these objectives, we identified TreMs from a defect survey performed the year a harvest gradient was applied to20 plots, including uncut control, shelterwood treatments removing 50%, 43% and 36% of basal area, and clearcut (4 plots/treatment). The density and composition of TreMs were then compared based on treatments. Overall, 38% of defectsactually corresponded to TreMs, confirming that tree-defects can be used as TreM proxies. Bark loss was the most abundantTreM. While there was practically no TreM in clearcuts, all shelterwood treatments initially maintained TreM diversity anddensity at the same values found in uncut control plots. Shelterwood systems, especially those maintaining a continuouscover, could therefore prove helpful to sustain TreMs and their biodiversity in managed forests.
Childhood TB in Myanmar: trends in notification, profile and treatment outcomes in the private sector
Authors: Thein S. K. , Satyanarayana S. , Kyaw K. W. Y. , Saw S. , Maung T. N. , Swe P. P. , Thu M. K. , Aung S. T.
Published: January 2020

Setting: Myanmar National Tuberculosis (TB) programme (NTP).Objective: To describe 1) the trends in childhood TB (aged 14 years) notification from 2014 to 2017 and quantify the private sector contribution to this notification; and 2) the profile and treatment outcomes
of childhood TB managed in the private sector in 2016.Study design: This was an observational study involving the review of routine records and reports of the NTP public-private mix (PPM) projects managed by the Myanmar Medical Association and Population Service International.Results:
The total number of childhood TB notified has declined from 36 314 in 2014 to 28 723 in 2017 (average annual decline = 2607 cases per year). The private sector contribution to the notification remained between 17% and 19%. Of the 5616 childhood TB cases diagnosed and treated under the two
PPM projects in 2016, 99% were clinically diagnosed and 5459 (97.7%) had successful treatment outcomes. Children aged 10 years, males, those with bacteriologically confirmed TB, those treated in the regions or states of Mandalay, Chin and Shan had a higher risk of an unfavourable outcome (lost
to follow-up, death, move to second-line treatment and not evaluated).Conclusion: Childhood TB notification is showing a declining trend. One of five notified childhood TB cases was diagnosed and treated in the private sector, where the successful treatment rate was high.
Scaling up HIV viral load monitoring in Manicaland, Zimbabwe: challenges and opportunities from the field
Authors: Nyagadza B. , Kudya N. , Mbofana E. , Masaka S. , Garone D. , Chen C-Y. , Mulingwa A. , Uzande C. , Isaakidis P. , Ndlovu Z.
Published: January 2020

Background: Demand for viral load (VL) monitoring is expected to increase; however, implementation of the multifaceted VL testing poses numerous challenges. We report experiences from Médecins Sans Frontiéres (MSF) and partners in the scale-up of HIV VL in collaboration
with the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) of Zimbabwe.Methods: A retrospective data review of routine reports from MSF-supported health facilities in Manicaland Province (Zimbabwe) was conducted. These secondary aggregate data were triangulated, and emerging themes of lessons
learnt from VL monitoring were shared.Results: A VL testing coverage of 63% (5966/9456) was achieved among the 40 health facilities, together with a switch rate to second-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) of 46.4% (108/233). The key enablers to scaling-up the VL monitoring were
well-equipped and supported VL laboratories, the operationalisation of the on-the-job clinical mentoring and systematic weaning off of better performing health facilities. Concerted efforts from different implementing partners and funders in the HIV programme, and close collaboration with
MoHCC were pivotal.Conclusion: Our experience indicates that clinical mentoring is effective, and resulted in high VL testing coverage and up-skilling primary health care workers in VL monitoring. Attention must be focused on innovations for improving VL result utilisation, especially
the identification and management of patients who fail ART.
Lessons learnt conducting minimally invasive autopsies in private mortuaries as part of HIV and tuberculosis research in South Africa
Authors: Karat A. S. , Omar T. , Tlali M. , Charalambous S. , Chihota V. N. , Churchyard G. J. , Fielding K. L. , Martinson N. A. , McCarthy K. M. , Grant A. D.
Published: January 2020

Current estimates of the burden of tuberculosis (TB) disease and cause-specific mortality in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive people rely heavily on indirect methods that are less reliable for ascertaining individual-level causes of death and on mathematical models. Minimally
invasive autopsy (MIA) is useful for diagnosing infectious diseases, provides a reasonable proxy for the gold standard in cause of death ascertainment (complete diagnostic autopsy) and, used routinely, could improve cause-specific mortality estimates. From our experience in performing MIAs
in HIV-positive adults in private mortuaries in South Africa (during the Lesedi Kamoso Study), we describe the challenges we faced and make recommendations for the conduct of MIA in future studies or surveillance programmes, including strategies for effective communication, approaches
to obtaining informed consent, risk management for staff and efficient preparation for the procedure.
Improving indicators of tuberculosis program cascades by leveraging HIV program strategies
Authors: Meribe S. C. , Harausz E. , Lawal I. , Ogundeji A. , Mbanefo C. , Adamu Y. , Hussain N. A. , Chittenden L. , Nelson R.
Published: January 2020

Background: To improve rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) case detection and treatment, the Nigerian Ministry of Defense Health Implementation Program and the US Army Medical Research Directorate-Africa/Nigeria introduced a HIV standard of care (SOC) package. Given the
integration of tuberculosis (TB) and HIV programs and evolving policies, we evaluated the impact of this strategy on TB program indicators.Methods: Routine, de-identified program data from 27 Nigerian military hospitals were analyzed. Using Wilcoxon signed-rank test, bivariate analyses
were performed to compare data from 12 months before and after implementation of the SOC package.Results: Our data showed improvements post-implementation as follows: the number of individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) screened for TB increased from 14 530 to 29 467
(P < 0.001); the number of individuals with presumptive TB identified increased from 803 to 1800 (P < 0.001); the number of ART clients bacteriologically tested for TB increased from 746 to 1717 (P < 0.001); and the number of ART clients treated for TB increased
from 152 to 282 (P < 0.001). Newly registered or relapsed TB cases increased from 436 to 906 (P < 0.001), the number of TB cases with known HIV status increased from 437 to 837 (P < 0.001), the number of TB-HIV co-infected cases increased from 182 to 301 (P
= 0.006), and the number of TB-HIV co-infected clients who started ART increased from 101 to 176 (P = 0.003).Conclusion: The implementation of the updated HIV SOC package led to the improvement in key TB diagnosis and treatment indicators. When emulated, this could help improve
the performance of other TB programs in countries other than Nigeria.
Framework de Suporte ao Desenvolvimento e Evolução de Aplicações Auto-Adaptativas em IoT
Authors: Júnior Belmondo R. A. , Nogueira Tales P. , Maia Marcio E. F. , Andrade Rossana M. C.
Published: January 2020

O desenvolvimento baseado em decisões em tempo de design é inadequada para aplicações IoT considerando (i) a heterogeneidade de dispositivos e tecnologias e (ii) a incapacidade de lidar com cenários imprevistos em tempo de design. Portanto, práticas que permitam adaptar o comportamento e a estrutura da aplicação de modo flexível são necessárias. Nesse contexto, este trabalho propõe um framework de suporte desacoplado para permitir que as aplicações IoT atinjam a auto-adaptação. O framework proposto foi avaliado em relação ao seu desempenho e os resultados mostram que esta abordagem pode realizar adaptações considerando um grande número de dispositivos em tempo hábil.
DETAB: Modelo Colaborativo De Detecção E Alerta De Buracos Em Vias Pavimentadas
Authors: Lopes Thiago Roberto Lima , Righi Rodrigo da Rosa , Dias Lucas Pfeiffer Salomão , Da Costa Cristiano André
Published: January 2020

Este artigo apresenta um modelo denominado Modelo Colaborativo de Detecção e Alerta de Buracos em Vias Pavimentadas (DETAB) o qual automaticamente detecta a existência de buracos, através de sensores ultrassõnicos instalados no véıculo, analisa e compartilha as informações relativas ao buraco com outros motoristas sem a necessidade de nenhum tipo de intervenção humana. As tecnologias envolvidas: sensor HC-SR04, micro controladora NodeMCU e um aplicativo para Android tem por objetivo ser uma solução de baixo custo, mas com alta acurácia. Os resultados obtidos através da avaliação do modelo em ambiente simulado, bem como em ambiente real, mostram que o DETAB foi capaz de identificar buracos na pista e também realizar o compartilhamento dessa informação com outros motoristas de forma satisfatória.
Avaliação de técnicas de inteligência computacional para identificação de atividades de vida diária
Authors: Machado Wylken S. , Barros Pedro H. , Almeida Eliana S. , Aquino Andre L. L.
Published: January 2020

Neste trabalho apresentamos a avaliação do desempenho de algoritmos de machine learning para identificar Atividades de Vida Diária (ADLs) e quedas. Nós avaliamos os seguintes algoritmos: K-Nearest Neighbors, Naive Bayes, Support Vector Machine, Decision Tree, Random Forest, Extra-Trees e Redes Neurais Recorrentes. Utilizamos um conjunto de dados coletados por uma Body Sensor Networks com cinco dispositivos sensores conectados através da interface Bluetooth Low Energy, chamado UMAFall. Obtivemos resultados satisfatórios, principalmente para as atividades saltar e queda frontal, com 100 % de acurácia, utilizando o algoritmo Extra-Trees.
ASAPe: uma Arquitetura para Sensoriamento Preditivo em Computação Vestível
Authors: Cacais Michelle G. , Moreira Leonardo O. , Caldas Weslley L. , Gomes Danielo G.
Published: January 2020

Dentre os vários conceitos associadosá Internet das Coisas (IoT), destacamos a computação vestível, a qual envolve sensoriamento corporal para captar dados das pessoas que estiverem ”vestindo” o sensor. Este artigo apresenta ASAPe, uma arquitetura para sensoriamento preditivo em computação vestível. Técnicas e estratégias de implementação da nossa proposta são discutidas e avaliadas nesta proposta. Os resultados alcançados até o presente momento indicam que a ASAPe pode ser muitoútil tanto em contextos de coleta de dados em tempo real como também em quantidade massiva de dados. A principal contribuição é fornecer um novo paradigma para trabalhar componentes e predição em Computação Vestível.
Avaliando o Tardigrade: um framework para o desenvolvimento de jogos de cartas ubíquos
Authors: Rodrigues Willian Almeida , Costa Cecília , Veras Nécio de Lima , Cortez Vitor , Andrade Ricardo , Trinta Fernando , Mendonça Júnior Glaudiney M. , Viana Windson
Published: January 2020

Pesquisadores de Jogos Ubíquos buscam descobrir como dispositivos de computação e sensores podem promover entretenimento. Eles tentam estender a experiência do jogo para além do mundo virtual extrapolando seus limites para o mundo físico. Esses jogos herdam desafios tradicionais de ambos os domínios (i.e., desenvolvimento de jogos e sistemas ubíquos), como heterogeneidade, descoberta de recursos, comunicação, e limitação de recursos. Neste artigo, é proposto e avaliado um framework de jogos de cartas ubíquos, chamado Tardigrade. O framework minimiza os desafios de implementar este tipo de jogo. Por fim, o artigo apresenta uma avaliação com oito desenvolvedores de dispositivos móveis e discute os resultados alcançados.
Análise da Evasão de Alunos na Licenciatura em Computação
Authors: Vasconcelos Viviane , Andrade Ermeson
Published: January 2020

A falta de embasamento lógico-matemático dos alunos de Licenciatura em Computação e o volume de ideias novas requeridas nos primeiros semestres do curso aparecem como motivos principais da alta taxa de evasão. No entanto, os estudos realizados raramente sugerem soluções para o problema. Através de questionários aplicados a professores e alunos do curso, o presente trabalho levanta dados sobre as percepções de ambos grupos integrantes do curso na Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, e identifica alguns problemas que podem ser corrigidos como forma de diminuir a alta taxa de evasão do curso. Soluções são oferecidas, e podem ser utilizadas em outras instituições que também enfrentam o problema da alta taxa de evasão.
Grupo de Estudo, Pesquisa e Extensão em Robótica e Automação Como Fator Motivacional Para Estudantes de Computação
Authors: Franco Matheus E. , Barra Breno M. , Moreira Rosana A. , Dias Caio C.
Published: January 2020

Nos cursos de computação são notórias as dificuldades encontradas pelos estudantes e as altas taxas de evasão. Assim, é necessário o desenvolvimento de atividades que privilegiem o cenário contemporâneo com o objetivo de motivar e externar a criatividade dos estudantes. Este trabalho descreve a criação e implantação de um grupo de estudo, pesquisa e extensão em robótica e automação utilizando a plataforma Arduino e o Kit de robótica LEGO Mindstorms. Os resultados obtidos demonstram que a proposta pode ser um recurso interessante a se desenvolver nas comunidades acadêmicas de computação tendo em vista a alta concordância obtida.
Produção de Jogos Digitais Educativos por Alunos do Ensino Superior: Um Relato da Experiência
Authors: Fernandes Kleber Tavares , Aranha Eduardo Henrique da Silva , Lucena Márcia Jacyntha Nunes Rodrigues
Published: January 2020

O desenvolvimento de um jogo é uma atividade complexa que envolve diversas etapas e profissionais de diferentesáreas. Algumas disciplinas dos cursos de computação têm se beneficiado quando adotam práticas de desenvolvimento de jogos digitais associadas às teorias apresentadas em sala de aula. Neste contexto, este artigo relata uma experiência da formação prática de alunos daárea de computação de uma Universidade Brasileira utilizando como estratégia de ensino aprendizagem a produção de jogos digitais com fins educacionais.
SoccerCraft: Relato de Atividade para Ensino Aprendizagem de Habilidades do Pensamento Computacional Aplicada no Sexto Ano do Ensino Fundamental
Authors: Martin Simão , Cavalheiro Simone , Reiser Renata , Foss Luciana , Mazzini Ana Rita , Du Bois André , Piana Clause
Published: January 2020

O Pensamento Computacional (PC) é uma habilidade fundamental para diversasáreas e envolve várias técnicas para a resolução de problemas, embasadas em conceitos fundamentais da Ciência da Computação. Este artigo apresenta uma proposta de atividade para o sexto ano do ensino fundamental que desenvolve o pensamento algorítmico, uma das habilidades do PC. A metodologia consiste em tarefas lúdicas e divertidas, sem o uso do computador, que simulam um jogo de futebol com personagens similares aos do jogo Minecraft. Esta atividade foi denominada SoccerCraft. Além da metodologia proposta, também são apresentados os resultados e relatos da aplicação da atividade a uma turma de uma escola pública do município de Pelotas.
An Interdisciplinary Approach to Software Engineering Teaching: An Experience Report
Authors: Braga e Silva Gláucia , Barbosa Daniel Mendes , Silva Fabrício A.
Published: January 2020

This work presents the report of an interdisciplinary approach for teaching Software Engineering that involves four related disciplines: Software Engineering II, Software Architecture, Database Systems, and Object-Oriented Programming. The approach was conducted through an specific methodology in which students were grouped together and had to assume roles and responsibilities in the scope of each discipline. In addition, computational tools were used to support collaborative tasks and evaluation and monitoring mechanisms were also included. This interdisciplinary approach was adopted in a Computer Science major course during 2015 and 2016. The results reveal positive impacts in motivation, as well as in learning aspects of the involved students.
Um Relato de Experiência: Ensinando Robótica por Meio de Microcontroladores em uma Escola Profissional de Ensino Médio
Authors: Alves Mateus Lima , Costa José Robertty de Freitas , Bezerra Carla Ilane Moreira
Published: January 2020

O entusiasmo pela robótica e automação incentiva vários jovens a participarem de projetos que envolvem a construção de hardware e software. Os microcontroladores são a “espinha dorsal” de projetos de robótica e automação. Tais dispositivos controlam e gerenciam os demais componentes do sistema. Para isso, conhecimentos em eletrônica e programação, tornam-se fundamentais para o jovem desenvolvedor. Nesse contexto, uma ação de extensão foi proposta, como uma iniciativa ao estudo de robótica. A ação visa inserir alunos do ensino médio àárea da robótica, por meio de um curso de microcontroladores. O presente artigo tem como objetivo fazer um relato da ação de extensão, apresentando seu planejamento, execução, resultados alcançados e trabalhos futuros.
Idealizando Jogos Digitais de Pensamento Computacional a Partir do Bebras Challenge: Um Estudo Exploratório.
Authors: Laisa Jéssica , Henrique Eduardo , Oliveira Wendell
Published: January 2020

Iniciativas nacionais e internacionais vêm inserindo pensamento computacional no ensino básico. Uma delas é o Bebras Challenge, que apresenta uma série de questões, que exercitam e avaliam o pensamento computacional. No contexto dessa iniciativa, apresentamos um estudo exploratório realizado com 19 alunos graduandos de uma universidade federal, com o objetivo de investigar se as questões do Bebras são boas fontes para construção de game design. Com isso, este trabalho pretender responder as seguintes questões de pesquisa: Qual a qualidade dos game designs produzidos? Qual o esforço necessário para realizar a produção dos game designs? Quais as dificuldades apresentadas pelos alunos? Os resultados alcançados mostram que é possível desenvolver bons game designs a partir das questões do Bebras, mostrando-se estas uma boa fonte de inspiração.