bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pooperacinio skausmo malšinimo metodų įtaka ankstyvai kelio sąnario funkcijai, lėtiniam skausmui ir gyvenimo kokybei po pilno kelio sąnario endoprotezavimo operacijos
Authors: Zinkus Janis , Urbanaitė Dalia , Gelmanas Arūnas , Tamošiūnas Ramūnas , Vertelis Arūnas , Macas Andrius
Published: May 2016

Pilna kelio sąnario endoportezavimo (PKSE) operacija – viena iš dažniausiai pasaulyje atliekamų ortopedinių operacijų, sąlygojančių lėtinio pooperacinio skausmo išsivystymą [1-3], kuris turi įtakos pacientų gyvenimo kokybei. Skausmo malšinimas po šių operacijų yra tikras iššūkis gydančiajam personalui visame pasaulyje [1-8]. Paprastai taikoma multimodalinė analgezija, kuri apima įvairius nuskausminimo metodus, pvz.: intraveniniai opioidai, periferinių nervų blokados, epidurinė analgezija, vidusąnarinės blokados, peroraliniai analgetikai ir kt. [1, 2]. Tačiau “auksinio standarto” vis dar nėra. Mūsų tyrimo tikslas buvo išsiaiškinti ūmaus pooperacinio skausmo malšinimo metodo, taikyto po pilno kelio sąnario endoprotezavimo (PKSE) operacijos, įtaką pacientų gyvenimo kokybei bei vėlyvam pooperaciniam skausmo atsiradimui po PKSE operacijų. Buvo atliktas perspektyvinis tyrimas, į kurį įtraukti 54 pacientai, kuriems atliktos PKSE operacijos. Pagal operacijos dieną atliktą randomizaciją, pacientai buvo suskirstyti į dvi lygias grupes: I grupę (taikyta juomeninio rezginio blokada) ir II grupę (taikyta vidusąnarinė blokada). Kelio sąnario funkcija bei lėtinio skausmo (LS) įtaka gyvenimo kokybei vertinta pagal VAS skalę ir specialų KOOS (ang. Knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score) klausimyną bei prieš operaciją pildytą Yesavage’o geriatrinės depresijos skalės anketą. Tyrimo rezultatai parodė, jog pooperacinis nuskausminimo metodas neturėjo įtakos LS išsivystymui, o depresija galėjo sąlygoti lėtinį pooperacinį skausmą. Kelio sąnario funkcija II grupės pacientams per pirmą mėnesį po PKSE operacijos gerėjo greičiau. Gyvenimo kokybė, nepaisant galimos depresijos, reikšmingai pagerėjo abiejų grupių pacientams.
Identification of differences in chemical composition among whole stick and sliced Nitran salamis trough principal component analysis
Authors: Fekete Tomáš , Šnirc Marek , Belej Ľubomí­r , Golian Jozef , Zajác Peter , Čapla Jozef
Published: May 2016

The subject of this work was to examine differences in chemical composition of sliced and whole stick Nitran salamis, purchased from various manufacturers. Nitran salamis are traditional dry fermented meat products of Slovak origin. Taking into account variations in raw materials, production process and potential adulteration, differences in chemical composition within one brand of salami from different manufacturers might be expected. Ten salamis were determined for basic chemical composition attributes and Principal Component Analysis was applied on data matrix to identify anomalous ones. It has been shown that six attributes, namely: protein without collagen of total protein, total protein, total meat, total fat, collagen of total protein and NaCl, were the most important for salamis as first two Principal Components together explained 70.16% of variance among them. Nitran D was found to be the most anomalous salami, as had the lowest value of protein without collagen of total protein (14.14% ±0.26%), total protein (17.42% ±0.44%), total meat (120.29% ±0.98%) and the highest one of total fat (50.85% ±0.95%), collagen of total protein (18.83% ±0.50%) and NaCl (9.55% ±1.93%), when compared to its whole stick variant Nitran C and other samples. In addition to collagen of total protein content, Nitran D together with Nitran A, F and H did not satisfied the legislatively determined criterion, which is ≤16%. This suggested that extra connective tissues were added to intermediate products, which resulted in high variability and inferior quality of final products. It is a common practice in the meat industry to increase the protein content or water binding properties of meat products.
Evaluation of the nutritional quality of veal supplemented with organic selenium and its effect on selenium status of people
Authors: Vavriší­nová Klára , Mrázová Jana , Bučko Ondřej , Lenártová Petra , Moravčí­ková Jana
Published: May 2016

In the first stage of our research we found out a higher content of selenium in the meat of calves of experimental group (with added the organic form of selenium to the feed mixture) compared to control group (fed without organic form of selenium). In the second stage of our research we focused on monitoring the impact of selenium enriched veal meat and on selenium concentration in blood serum and the selected biochemical parameters of lipid spectrum of the experimental group of volunteers. Ten people who were participating in the research were at the age range between 29 - 56 years. All the volunteers consumed veal meat enriched with organic selenium for 4 weeks. Before starting the experiment we took venous blood of the volunteers and this blood was considered as a control sample of selenium in blood serum of the experimental group. Selenium concentration in blood serum of the examined group was determined by an average of 58.31 ±5.36 mg.L.-1 and none of them reached the optimal level of selenium. Consequently, we carried out the additional blood sampling after 2 and 4 weeks of the consumption of veal meat. There was registered a slight increasing of selenium status, whereas after the finishing the consumption, we determined the average selenium concentration in blood serum of the experimental group 60.73 ±4.05 mg.L-1. The evaluation of lipid profile of the experimental group showed (after input blood sampling) higher values of total cholesterol level and lower levels of HDL cholesterol. This fact shows the higher risk of starting the cardiovascular diseases. Reported research results didn't show statistically significant changes of blood lipid spectrum of the experimental group. We concluded that the consumption of supplemented veal meat can positively affect the level of selenium in our body and thereby increase it can increase the protective effect against the influence of free radicals.
Relation between selected nutrients in the chicken meat depending on phytogenic feed additives
Authors: Angelovičová Mária , Mellen Martin , Bučko Ondřej , Tkáčová Jana , Čapla Jozef , Zajác Peter , Angelovič Marek
Published: May 2016

The aim of study was to evaluate the relation between selected nutrients in the breast and thigh muscles after the application of different phytogenic additives in the diet of broiler chickens and between same indicators of meat disregarding additive and parts of carcass, from which muscles originate. We realized an in vivo experiment on the Zámostie Company poultry test station with deep litter breeding system. The experiment included 100 pcs of one-day-old hybrid chickens Cobb 500 divided into 2 groups (n = 50): the 1st experimental group with an application of feed additive from chestnut tree and lemon fruit extracts and the 2nd experimental group with an application of feed additive from citrus fruits extract. We used a cereal and soybean basal diet and we divided the fattening period into four phases: starter (1 - 10 days), grower I (11 - 20 days), grower II (21 - 28 days) and finisher (29 - 42 days). We applied a powder form feed mixtures. Nutritive value of feed mixtures was the same in each experimental group during the whole experiment and in accordance with the physiological needs of broiler chickens. We fed the 1st experimental group with a basal diet enriched by feed additive from chestnut tree and lemon fruit extracts (50 g/100 kg). As for the 2nd experimental group, we applied feed additive from citrus fruits extracts through the drinking water (100 mL/100 L). In the 2nd part of our experiment, we compared results obtained from two experimental groups with other four groups of diet. We applied other phytogenic additives to these four groups and we did not take into account the origin of the meat sample. We measured indicators of the chemical composition of protein, fat, water and cholesterol on a sample (50 g) of breast and thigh muscle without skin by the method of FT IR by use of the apparatus Nicolet 6700. Detected relations between nutrients of breast and thigh muscles were defined by correlation coefficient of -0.6 ≤ r ≥ +0.6. When additive with chestnut tree and lemon fruit extracts was used, we detected a negative correlation (p ≤0.01) between protein and cholesterol of breast muscle. In thigh muscle, the negative correlation was observed between protein and energy (p ≤0.05), protein and fat (p ≤0.01) as well as fat and water. The only positive correlation was detected between protein and cholesterol of breast muscle (p ≤0.01), with additive citrus fruits extract. When nutrition and parts of carcass, from which muscles originate, were disregarded, protein of meat increased, energy and fat decreased (p ≤0.001). When fat of meat increased, energy increased (p >0.05) as well, but water decreased (p ≤0.05; p ≤0.001).
“The Sea of Our City”: Famine, Piracy, and Urban Sovereignty in Medieval Barcelona
Authors: Kelleher Marie A.
Published: May 2016

This article explores the issue of grain piracy during the famine year of 1333–1334 as a means to understanding the identity of medieval Barcelona within a broader Mediterranean context. At the same time that municipal authorities worked to prevent the theft of their own grain shipments, they used the famine as justification for their own piratical actions. The relationship between Barcelona and piracy underlines the independent political agency of Iberian cities in the later Middle Ages, illustrating the permeable borders between law and outlawry, and between public and private interests, as cities attempted to draw borders on a borderless sea.
The Ports of Cyprus and the French Invasion of Egypt (1798–1801)
Authors: Dinç Güven
Published: May 2016

Cyprus holds an important geographical position in the eastern Mediterranean. During the Ottoman period (1571–1878), there were five ports in Cyprus that played a key role, not only in the history of Cyprus during this period but also in the Ottoman Empire as a whole. During the French invasion of Egypt (1798–1801), the ports of Cyprus were used to supply both the Ottoman army and the armies of its allies, England and Russia. The ports of Cyprus also regularly facilitated communications between the capital and the theater of war, which was distant from the capital.
Domesticating Otherness: The Snake Charmer in American Popular Culture
Authors: Racy A. J.
Published: May 2016

Metaphoric allusions to otherness are widely encountered and oftentimes taken for granted. Exploring the use of the snake-charming theme in American popular media, I discuss why and how such a supposedly foreign theme is borrowed, metaphorically adapted, and locally applied. The central premise is that such a process is integrally linked to the borrower’s own history and cultural outlooks. Besides reflecting my own first-hand experience, the narratives engage relevant discourses on representation, exoticism, imagination, metaphor, and power. Generally, the research illustrates how tropes of otherness acquire their forms and meanings as they become localized, or domesticated.
The Art of Representing the Other: Industry Personnel in the World Music Industry
Authors: Whitmore Aleysia K.
Published: May 2016

In this article I examine how contemporary world music industry personnel think about developing sounds, images, and stories for European and North American audiences. As they work to represent "the other" in ways that appeal to audiences, are respectful of artists, and are fulfilling to themselves, industry personnel negotiate different ideas concerning what world music is and what makes it valuable, authentic, and real. I analyze how industry personnel manage these varied perspectives on world music as they negotiate the dynamics of representational and interpretive distortion across the schizophonic gap.
The Study of the Teaching Models and Prospects of Bilingual Teaching in Local Universities of China - A Case Study of Leshan Normal University, Sichuan
Authors: Ye Zhou
Published: May 2016

In present China, bilingual teaching, as an education model, can meet an urgent demand for increasing interdisciplinary talents who have high levels of professional knowledge as well as competent foreign language abilities to deal with the ever-increasing global social, economic, scientific and technological exchanges, and international cooperation. Bilingual teaching is now developing fast in many local universities in China. However, the result is far from satisfaction. Inappropriate teaching strategies, learning materials as well as insufficient qualified bilingual teachers bring about the students’ lack of learning motivation, and thus to hamper the development of bilingual teaching. It is hoped that this paper can enrich the knowledge of bilingual teaching in local universities of China and provide useful and valuable information for students and teachers who are interested in this field. At the same time, it also provides a useful guidance for the future bilingual teaching practitioners.
On Reflective Teaching of EFL Teachers in Local Universities of China - A Case Study of Leshan Normal University, Sichuan
Authors: Li Zou , Ye Zhou
Published: May 2016

Presently, China plays a vital role in the world. Therefore, Chinese passion for English has reached an unprecedented level. Nevertheless, various problems occur in EFL teaching. Thus, EFL teachers must make the teaching qualities better by reflective teaching, an effective way to improving EFL teaching.

The paper is to study the definitions, approaches and the characteristics of reflective teaching, so that teachers can clarify what reflection teaching is, how important it is, and how they can become reflective teachers. In addition, the paper also analyzes one case study of teacher reflection in Leshan Normal Unviersity in the perspective of improving EFL teachers’ teaching. Finally, the paper draws a conclusion to trigger the further study.
The Role of Native and Learner Corpora in Vocabulary Test Design
Authors: Akeel Eman Saleh
Published: May 2016

The growing field of corpus linguistics has been engaged heavily in language pedagogy during the last two decades. This has encouraged researchers to look for more applications that corpora have on language teaching and learning and led to the emersion of using corpora in language testing. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of using corpus data for the purpose of vocabulary test designing. It presents some native and learner corpora which are available for item writers to use. It covers the benefits and limitations of using corpora in language testing and argues for the importance and usefulness of using native as well as learner corpora as tools for designing a vocabulary test. The article aims to illustrate how both native and learner corpora can be used in language testing in general and in the development of vocabulary tests in particular.
Revista Digital do LAV – Laboratório de Artes Visuais
Authors: Oliveira Marilda Oliveira de
Published: May 2016

Prezados e prezadas leitores e leitoras, É com alegria que apresentamos a sexta edição da Revista Digital do LAV, no seu quarto ano, cumprindo com regularidade as duas publicações anuais, previstas para os meses de março e setembro.
Sobre el arte y sus “estados físicos”: consideraciones acerca del libro “El arte en estado gaseoso. Ensayo sobre el triunfo de la estética” de Yves Michaud
Authors: Freitag Vanessa
Published: May 2016

“Este mundo es exageradamente bello”. Así es como Yves Michaud3 empieza su libro haciendo mención a la gran estetización de la vida que vivimos actualmente, tema de estelibro. Bellos pueden ser desde los empaques de los productos, pasando por los cuerpos reconstruidos o maquillados, hasta los cadáveres cuidadosamente envueltos en las ambulancias. Entre bromear y hablar en serio, Michaud reitera que los hombres del siglo XX hemos vivido bajo el triunfo de la estética y consecuentemente, de su idolatría.
Reinventando lugares, pessoas e a educação a partir da arte em espaços cotidianos
Authors: Vaz Tamiris
Published: May 2016

Neste artigo são apresentadas ideias que, a partir de entrevistas realizadas em 2010 com dois professores graduados em artes visuais, um artista e uma estudante do ensino médio, discutem a educação em artes através de diálogos sobre a realização de experiências artísticas em espaços cotidianos, considerando como essas experiências podem estar presentes nos processos de aprendizagem. Os diálogos abordam o envolvimento dos educandos em experiências de ver e de fazer arte e a busca de possibilidades de reinvenção das relações entre pessoas e lugares, pensando a educação para além da arte e dos espaços escolares. A partir das entrevistas, foi possível perceber uma preocupação dos colaboradores em encontrar vieses para uma educação que não se distancie do cotidiano dos estudantes, fazendo da experiência artística um desafio para o conhecimento de si e dos outros em suas relações com o lugar vivido.
Una experiencia de aprendizaje socio-construccionista. Otra manera de comprender nuestro trabajo como docentes
Authors: Ucker Lilian , García Fernando Herraiz , Padró Carla
Published: May 2016

El articulo trata de recoger la experiencia de enseñanza/aprendizaje compartida en la asignatura de Pedagogía de Arte impartida en la Facultad de Bellas Artes de la Universidad de Barcelona a través del cruce de voces de las/los docentes. Una experiencia en singular que, desarrollada dentro del proyecto de innovación docente Indaga-t, ha tenido un papel relevante en la reconsideración de la labor educativa de las personas que intervinieron en el curso.
A dimensão educativa da mediação artística e cultural: a construção do conhecimento através da apreciação na presença da obra
Authors: Johann Maria Regina , Roratto Luciara Judite Bernardi
Published: May 2016

A dimensão educativa da mediação artística e cultural é o foco principal deste artigo, elaborado a partir da pesquisa “Mediação estética: a construção do conhecimento através da apreciação na presença da obra[1]”, que tem como espaço de realização teórico-prática a Sala de Exposição Java Bonamigo do curso de Artes Visuais da Unijuí. Questões como a educação do ver/olhar, do conhecimento sensível e cognoscível da arte, assim como, a dimensão propositiva da tarefa de mediação são abordadas no texto. Apresentamos conceitos sobre Mediação e destacamos que ela pode ser entendida como uma ação intencional criada com o objetivo de inter-relacionar, aproximar, viabilizar, esclarecer, desvelar e informar acerca da arte e da cultura, ampliando a significação sobre a obra. [1]Pesquisa financiada pelo Programa de Pós Graduação, Pesquisa e Extensão da Unijuí – Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul.
Stem Cell Surface Marker Expression Defines Late Stages of Reprogramming to Pluripotency in Human Fibroblasts
Authors: Pomeroy Jordan E. , Hough Shelley R. , Davidson Kathryn C. , Quaas Alex M. , Rees Jordan A. , Pera Martin F.
Published: May 2016

Our current understanding of the induction of pluripotency by defined factors indicates that this process occurs in discrete stages characterized by specific alterations in the cellular transcriptome and epigenome. However, the final phase of the reprogramming process is incompletely understood. We sought to generate tools to characterize the transition to a fully reprogramed state. We used combinations of stem cell surface markers to isolate colonies emerging after transfection of human fibroblasts with reprogramming factors and then analyzed their expression of genes associated with pluripotency and early germ lineage specification. We found that expression of a subset of these genes, including the cell-cell adhesion molecule CDH3, characterized a late stage in the reprogramming process. Combined live-cell staining with the antibody GCTM-2 and anti-CDH3 during reprogramming identified colonies of cells that showed gene expression patterns very similar to those of embryonic stem cell or established induced pluripotent stem cell lines, and gave rise to stable induced pluripotent stem cell lines at high frequency. Our findings will facilitate studies of the final stages of reprogramming of human cells to pluripotency and will provide a simple means for prospective identification of fully reprogrammed cells.

Significance

Reprogramming of differentiated cells back to an embryonic pluripotent state has wide ranging applications in understanding and treating human disease. However, how cells traverse the barriers on the journey to pluripotency still is not fully understood. This report describes tools to study the late stages of cellular reprogramming. The findings enable a more precise approach to dissecting the final phases of conversion to pluripotency, a process that is particularly poorly defined. The results of this study also provide a simple new method for the selection of fully reprogrammed cells, which could enhance the efficiency of derivation of cell lines for research and therapy.
Typologie des cycles de quintes évasifs dans Le Clavier bien tempéré de J.S. Bach
Authors: Piché Marie-Ève
Published: May 2016

Le musicologue Manfred Bukofzer, dans son ouvrage La musique baroque, mentionne que le système tonal n’arrive à maturité qu’à la fin de la période baroque (1982, 241). Il soutient que c’est par l’utilisation systématique du cycle de quintes dans les oeuvres de cette époque que les compositeurs sont parvenus à mieux définir la tonalité (ibid., 242). Dans les deux volumes du Clavier bien tempéré de Bach (1722 et 1742), les cycles de quintes sont en effet particulièrement nombreux et variés. Cette recherche — qui s’inscrit dans la foulée des travaux de Luce Beaudet, professeure d’analyse et de formation auditive à l’Université de Montréal — propose un point de vue tout à fait nouveau sur le Clavier bien tempéré en ce qui concerne spécifiquement l’utilisation des cycles de quintes. À partir d’exemples tirés de ce corpus, l’article établit une typologie des cycles de quintes évasifs. Ces cycles de quintes présentent une formulation harmonique imprécise et, de ce fait, peuvent poser de réels problèmes d’analyse. En effet, on retrouve dans le Clavier bien tempéré des cycles de quintes de toutes sortes, allant des plus conventionnels aux plus sophistiqués. Les différentes formes que Bach leur a données obligent les analystes à raffiner les méthodes existantes afin de répertorier les variantes par rapport au modèle conventionnel et, en particulier en ce qui concerne les cycles de quintes évasifs, pour faire apparaître ce qui demeure tacite. On observe aussi que le cycle de quintes, en plus d’être abondamment utilisé dans le parcours harmonique des préludes et fugues du Clavier bien tempéré, constitue un élément structurel fondamental, tant au niveau microscopique que macroscopique.
Zeb1 controls neuron differentiation and germinal zone exit by a mesenchymal-epithelial-like transition
Authors: Singh Shalini , Howell Danielle , Trivedi Niraj , Kessler Ketty , Ong Taren , Rosmaninho Pedro , Raposo Alexandre ASF , Robinson Giles , Roussel Martine F , Castro Diogo S , Solecki David J
Published: May 2016

In the developing mammalian brain, differentiating neurons mature morphologically via neuronal polarity programs. Despite discovery of polarity pathways acting concurrently with differentiation, it's unclear how neurons traverse complex polarity transitions or how neuronal progenitors delay polarization during development. We report that zinc finger and homeobox transcription factor-1 (Zeb1), a master regulator of epithelial polarity, controls neuronal differentiation by transcriptionally repressing polarity genes in neuronal progenitors. Necessity-sufficiency testing and functional target screening in cerebellar granule neuron progenitors (GNPs) reveal that Zeb1 inhibits polarization and retains progenitors in their germinal zone (GZ). Zeb1 expression is elevated in the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) medulloblastoma subgroup originating from GNPs with persistent SHH activation. Restored polarity signaling promotes differentiation and rescues GZ exit, suggesting a model for future differentiative therapies. These results reveal unexpected parallels between neuronal differentiation and mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition and suggest that active polarity inhibition contributes to altered GZ exit in pediatric brain cancers.
Optimisation of DNA extraction from the crustaceanDaphnia
Authors: Athanasio Camila Gonçalves , Chipman James K. , Viant Mark R. , Mirbahai Leda
Published: May 2016

Daphniaare key model organisms for mechanistic studies of phenotypic plasticity, adaptation and microevolution, which have led to an increasing demand for genomics resources. A key step in any genomics analysis, such as high-throughput sequencing, is the availability of sufficient and high quality DNA. Although commercial kits exist to extract genomic DNA from several species, preparation of high quality DNA fromDaphniaspp. and other chitinous species can be challenging. Here, we optimise methods for tissue homogenisation, DNA extraction and quantification customised for different downstream analyses (e.g., LC-MS/MS, Hiseq, mate pair sequencing or Nanopore). We demonstrate that ifDaphnia magnaare homogenised as whole animals (including the carapace), absorbance-based DNA quantification methods significantly over-estimate the amount of DNA, resulting in using insufficient starting material for experiments, such as preparation of sequencing libraries. This is attributed to the high refractive index of chitin inDaphnia’scarapace at 260 nm. Therefore, unless the carapace is removed by overnight proteinase digestion, the extracted DNA should be quantified with fluorescence-based methods. However, overnight proteinase digestion will result in partial fragmentation of DNA therefore the prepared DNA is not suitable for downstream methods that require high molecular weight DNA, such as PacBio, mate pair sequencing and Nanopore. In conclusion, we found that the MasterPure DNA purification kit, coupled with grinding of frozen tissue, is the best method for extraction of high molecular weight DNA as long as the extracted DNA is quantified with fluorescence-based methods. This method generated high yield and high molecular weight DNA (3.10 ± 0.63 ng/µg dry mass, fragments >60 kb), free of organic contaminants (phenol, chloroform) and is suitable for large number of downstream analyses.
Organization Development Interventions, How Effective are They?: A Case on an International Franchised Company in Cebu
Authors: Sia Leahlizbeth Angbetic
Published: May 2016

Organization development interventions are very important and common in franchised companies. This is an experimental study to assess the effectiveness of organization development (OD) interventions on an international franchised company in Cebu. The aim is  to determine the attainment of the goals and objectives of the five franchise outlets of a particular chain of pizza restaurants in Cebu in terms of food, service and environment, through the theoretical framework of this study based on Schein’s (2010) strategic planning model. The pre and post-intervention instrument used is a researcher made survey instrument that was constructed based on the Operations Manual of the pizza franchise. Fifteen supervisors and staff of the pizza franchise were asked to rate themselves, on how well they did in thirteen categories.  The results served as the bases for conducting a strategic planning workshop. Pre and post intervention means were compared using paired t-test at 0.05 level of significance. The data from pre-intervention assessment and post intervention evaluation were treated via statistics using the means. The paired t-test was used for comparison of pre and post intervention data for improvements significant at 0.05 levels. Noticeable improvements were shown. It is suggested that further intervention activities be conducted to solidify the strengths of the intervention efforts. Keywords - Organization development interventions, strategic planning, paired t-test, international franchise, Cebu, Philippines
Economic Potential of Raising Philippine Native Pigs on Trichanthera (Trichanthera Gigantea) Diets
Authors: Callo-Etis Virgie N.
Published: May 2016

The Philippine Native Pig maintains its niche in the demand for a Filipino delicacy called "Lechon" because of taste and crunchiness. However, commercializing native pigs is constrained by the high cost of feeds. So, these studies were conducted to determine the economic potential of raising native pigs on Trichanthera diets. Results showed that native pigs can be grown with better feed efficiency and lower the feed cost per kilogram weight gain using Trichanthera to replace up to 30% of the commercial rations (Study1). With formulated rations in gabi diets, Trichanthera can be used up to 45% of the diets for economical weight gains (Study 2). Feeding Trichanthera in gabi-corn diets (Study 3) did not significantly affect weight gains up to 45% level in the diets. The feed efficiency was improved and reduced the feed cost per kilogram weight gain up to 30% Trichanthera in the diets. The potential profit based on weight gains less feed cost is consistently increasing (15%, 30%, and 49%) with the increasing level of Trichanthera in the diets. Therefore, raising native pigs on Trichanthera diets is potentially viable both bio-physically and economically.   Keywords - Animal Nutrition, Philippine native pigs, Trichanthera gigantea, forage, local feedstuffs, non-conventional feedstuffs, economic viability, feeding trial, experimental design, Tanay, Rizal, Philippines
Conditions of the Nearby Boarding Houses of a State University In the Northern Philippines: A Benchmark Study
Authors: VALDERAMA JULIUS S. , VILLANUEVA JOEY M.
Published: May 2016

The school is responsible in addressing the housing needs of students within or outside the campus for safety and security. The study was formulated with focus on the assessment of the boarding houses near the premises of Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU) in northern Philippines. The boarding houses were assessed along four areas namely basic amenities, safety and security, special services and other boarders’ concerns. Descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, frequency tables, percentages, and mean were used to draw the socio-demographic profile of the respondents and the basic feature of boarding houses. The researchers were able to identify characteristics of sound/good boarding house like; spacious receiving room; tidy and orderly cooking area. The researchers recommended the following practices to ensure safety of the student occupants; there should be a proper monitoring of occupants’ activities; there should be an enforcement of a contract; there should be a regular meeting, checking and implementation of house rules and regulations are properly observed, and counseling is done when needed; strict implementation of outsiders being not allowed to enter the boarding house without permission from the owner. Further, the university should regularly monitor the conditions of the boarding houses to ensure the safety of the student occupants.KEYWORDS: Social Science, Architecture, structural design, boarding houses, Likert scale,Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines
Managerial Competencies for Market Leadership
Authors: NAVARRO ROLANDO B. , BUNDOC CRISTINA R.
Published: May 2016

One of the most essential components of a business is the competency of its leadership. The dynamics of managerial competencies is a complex process that necessitates commitment from every level of an organization. This paper ventured to determine the level of managerial competencies of owners/managers in select restaurants in the Heritage City of Vigan, Philippines. It utilized a descriptive-correlational method of research. The profile of the restaurant managers were looked into. Likewise, the respondents were also asked to assess their managerial competencies along planning, organizing, directing and controlling. A total of 30 business establishments /restaurant managers and 118 workers served as respondents of this study. The data were tallied, analyzed and interpreted using frequency count and percentage, weighted mean and Pearson product moment of correlation. Findings showed that majority of the restaurant managers are dominated by females, married and BS Degree holders. Most of them are aged between 46-55, finished Business Education courses and had been a manager for about 5 years. The “effective” level of managerial competencies exhibited by the restaurant managers of Vigan City is an indication that they performed efficiently along planning, organizing, directing and controlling. Furthermore, the non-correlation of the respondents’ profile and their competencies would mean that regardless of their profile, this may not affect their marketing strategies and performance as managers.KEYWORDS: Business and Management, managerial competencies, planning, organizing, directing,controlling, restaurant, descriptive-correlational design, Philippines
Organizational Crisis: The Incestuous Relationship Between Primary Values, Gaps, Disabled Functions, and Management Failures
Authors: FUKOFUKA SUNIA
Published: May 2016

The nature of organizational crisis is changing and there is a call from scholars that the crisis framework should be modified to reflect these changes. Though it is important to factor in changes in the crisis framework, it is even more critical to recognize the factors that stay the same. The purpose of this article is to figure out the factors that are the same regardless of the nature and the industry in which the crisis incident occurred. A grounded theory approach was employed in the analysis of the sinking of the MV Princess Ashika in Tonga (2009) and the collapse of the Barings Bank in Singapore/London (1995). It was found that there is an incestuous relationship between primary values, gaps, disabled functions, and management failures. This incestuous relationship is argued to be what remains the same in organizational crises regardless of the changes pointed out and this will be discussed. The understanding of these incestuous relationships will help practitioners in developing preventative measures to avoid crisis incidents rather than reacting to the crisis incident when it happens.Keywords: Organizational Crisis, Barings Bank, MV Princess Ashika, Disabled Functions,Primary Values, Management Failures
Motivations for Green Business in Attaining Corporate Sustainability
Authors: SY MARIA VICTORIA U.
Published: May 2016

Corporate orientation on “ecological sustainability” and the operative processof “green business” have become the universal mantra for many organizationsover the past decade. Companies not only seek to comply with environmentalregulations, but most importantly, adopt green business initiatives to enhance sustainable development and attain environmental stewardship. The environment is one of the three pillars behind the business contribution to sustainabledevelopment hence; protecting the environment has prodded more companiesto adopt green business to become more environmentally responsible. Thisstudy investigate the influences of organizational motivations which promptedcompanies to embrace “green business” leading to the attainment of sustainablebusiness practices. It employed the quantitative method of research, specificallythe descriptive survey to collect data from the five companies. Secondary datawere gathered from the interview results and official publications provided bythe participating organizations. Three companies are located in the Philippineswhile the other two are based in Thailand. The results of the study disclosed thatthe business organizations were largely influenced to pursue green business dueto legal and economic factors. This study applied the motivational perspective inexamining how certain factors influenced five entities to adopt the green businessconcept.Keywords: Green business, motivations, corporate sustainability, sustainabledevelopment, natural environment, qualitative research, Philippines, Thailand
Radio and Television: Media Preference for Information Utilization among Select Retiring Members of Social Security System
Authors: Monteroso Mercylene P.
Published: May 2016

Social Security System (SSS), Philippines is mandated by law to providemeaningful protection to members and their families against contingenciesresulting in loss of income or financial burden, and to contribute to the socioeconomicdevelopmentof the country,througha viable social insuranceprogram(Section2, RA 8282). Inthis way,SSS needs to establish and optimizeitsexisting strategic communication plan. Hence,this study was conductedtodeterminethemostpreferredmediumofcommunicationforretiringSSSmemberswhen transacting business and accessing to information regardingSSSupdatesand programs.The study used descriptivedesign. Surveyquestionnairewasutilizedin gathering the data. Among the communication media thatSSSused in disseminating information, radio and television arethe mostpreferredcommunicationmediaamongtheretiringSSSmembers.Thesamewerethecommunicationmediathroughwhichtheretiringmembersaccessedinformation.Puttingthe findings together,the study concludes that accessibilityandaffordabilityof media on the partof the media consumers matter in theirchoiceof utilizing information. Itis recommendedthat SSS Cagayan de Oro Branch should primarily use radio and television for most of its efforts indisseminating information, while still using the other media of communication. Keywords - Social Science, media accessibility, media preference, utilization, SocialSecurity System, retiring SSS members, descriptive design, Philippines
Adolescent Self-Learning Exercise (ASLE) and Self-Perception of Crisis Intervention Center Residents
Authors: BAUTISTA MA. VERONICA A.
Published: May 2016

In an attempt to introduce a program that would enhance the level of self- perception of CIC residents  using  ASLE as a tool, this study on Adolescent Self-Learning Exercise (ASLE) and Self-Perception of Crisis Intervention Center (CIC) Residents was conducted. The instruments used were the Emotional Self- Awareness Scale, Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale and Self-Rating Scale (of Self- Acceptance). The research design utilized single subject design, specifically the AB-AB design.   Pre- and post-tests were obtained to determine the differences in self-perceptions  as a result of the ASLE program. The participants of the study were 11 residents of CIC in Amas, Kidapawan City, North Cotabato, who were victims of rape and other forms of sexual abuse. ASLE was used to determine their level of self-perception on self-awareness, self-esteem and self- acceptance. The findings of the study show varying results. Of the three areas of focus, participants showed a significant difference in their level of perception on self-esteem compared with self-awareness and self-acceptance. The study seems to point out that that the activities used in the conduct of ASLE that tackles on improving self-esteem were effective and appropriate as they enhanced the participants’ level of self-esteem, while participants’ level of self-awareness and self-acceptance remained in the average level.Keywords: Psychology,  adolescent,   sexual  abuse, self-acceptance, self-esteem,  self- awareness, quasi-experimental, Philippines
Procurement Process at the Department of Education Philippines, Division of Cagayan de Oro City: Looking beyond the Legal Framework
Authors: Ratunil Annabella L.
Published: May 2016

Public procurement is a core element for the operation government agencies for their purposes (World Trade, 2010). In the Philippines, a Public Procurement Reform Act was enacted to ensure that the following: (a) transparency, (b) competitiveness, (c) streamlined procurement process, and (e) civil monitoring are incorporated in the procurement process. In theory, the Public Procurement Reform Law was in line with international best practices. However, the problem in the implementation caused serious weaknesses in the procurement. Reports revealed that widespread of corruptions still continue to exist. This paper examined the procurement processes of the Division of Cagayan de Oro City, Department of Education, and Region 10 in the implementation of the government procurement reform law. Through descriptive survey design and purposive sampling, the study targeted 34 respondents. The quantitative data collected were analyzed by the use of descriptive statistics using SPSS and presented through percentages and frequencies. The findings revealed that (76%) of the respondents agreed that the procurement reform law was not new them.  However, (58.82%) of the respondents agreed that the procurement reform law caused a delay in the procurement process. All respondents agreed with the recommendation that training on the procurement reform law will solve the problem. Keywords - Public Administration, procurement, implementation, delays, descriptive design, Philippines
Level of Awareness of Alcohol and Drug Abuse and their Grade on the Subject of Prevention of Alcohol and Drug Abuse (padams) in the Maritime Sector
Authors: Padayhag Benita R. , Taroc Roel D. , Paculba Hermilita L. , Daug Samuel M. , Sumalpong Gilbert P. , Sugabo Margarito S.
Published: May 2016

This study was determined about their course, age, sex, marital status, average family monthly income, membership in fraternity or sorority, family background, and living arrangements while studying at Siquijor State College. More respondents are males, single, in the age bracket of above 20 years old and living below poverty line. The majority is not members of sorority/fraternity; living with their families where they travel to school every day, and they have complete parents. They are very much aware of the effects of drugs on their jobs and of the shipping companies’ drug policy. Moreover, they are also much aware of the general, safety, and legal implications of alcohol and drug abuse in the maritime sector. Their profiles do not affect the awareness level on PADAMS and with their grades in the subject. Between grades and the awareness level on PADAMS, the positive correlation is weak. Every move that should be undertaken by the administration of Siquijor State College-Maritime Education Program should be geared towards the development of the students particularly in the continuous education, information and campaign against drug abuse.   Keywords -      Health Education of Alcohol and Drug Abuse in the Maritime Sector, Performance, Maritime Education, Descriptive design, Siquijor, Philippines
A Constructivist Small-Group Learning Intervention in Thermodynamics: Effects on Students’ Conceptual Change and Attitudes
Authors: Obrero Mariquit M. , Obrero Mario P.
Published: May 2016

A Thermodynamics class of eleven second year college students was exposed to a constructivist learning intervention, which addressed their prior knowledge and engaged them in interactive instructional tasks in cooperative groups of two or three. The study found out the extent of conceptual change attained by the students. It also tested whether the extent of conceptual change was significantly influenced by the students’ attitudes towards constructivism, small-group learning, and physics. Conceptual change, indicated by the replacement of an alternative conception by the correct conception, was measured using a misconception test. The students’ attitudes were determined using a set of questionnaires.  Results show that most of the initial alternative conceptions held by the students were changed to scientifically accepted conceptions after the intervention. Their posttest scores were found to be statistically higher than their pretest scores. The concept maps they prepared after the intervention showed the relationships among various Thermodynamic concepts correctly. The students had positive attitudes towards constructivism, small-group learning, and physics. They appreciated the intervention and the meaningful learning experience they had. The students’ attitudes significantly influenced their extent of conceptual change. The constructivist approach has been found to be effective in promoting conceptual change and, thus, it is recommended for use in physics classes.   Keywords-Physics Education, Students’ Alternative Conceptions in Thermodynamics, Conceptual Change, Student Attitudes, Constructivism, Small-Group Learning, Descriptive Method, Case Study, Vigan City, Philippines
Effectiveness of Child Abuse Preventive Measures of the Zamboanga City State Polytechnic College
Authors: Fernandez Hermenegilda C.
Published: May 2016

Prevention and protection of children from abuse, maltreatment or violence, depends on data obtained through scientific research. Thus, this descriptive study design was conducted to determine the extent of awareness of child abuse prevention measures and child protection laws.  RA 7610  guarantees special child protection against child abuse,  RA 7877 known as  the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995 guarantees workers protection in the workplace and training or educational environment. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) as an international legal instrument against child abuse. These child protection laws are assessed by the randomly sampled college students/faculty and personnel of the College. Findings reveal that students are highly aware of matters about child abuse and the preventive measures the school has. Nevertheless, such high level of awareness among students does not directly influence the effectiveness of the school’s effort in educating the students about child abuse because the information about child abuse is sourced not from the school but by external sources particularly the electronic platform. Such finding implies that the school has to take full advantage of the Internet in communicating its programs and measures relevant to child protection from abuses.
Interactive Video Approach Learning about Revolution of the Earth
Authors: Langam, Jr. Henry L.
Published: May 2016

In teaching revolution of the Earth, the proper instructional material should be used to appreciate fully and understand the concept. This study aimed to investigate the contribution of the Interactive Video Approach to learning revolution of the Earth. This research utilizes experimental, correlation, and descriptive research designs, and employed validated researcher-made test and attitude questionnaire to 52 respondents. The t-test and Pearson r Correlation were used to analyze the data. The researcher administered the pretest and then conducted the instruction utilizing Interactive Video Approach and Traditional Approach. Posttests were then administered to measure the academic achievement and attitude of the respondents. The scores of the respondents taught using the interactive video approach were higher compared to traditional approach. The overall weighted mean value of 3.42, with the variation of 0.62 indicates higher perceived value with the consistency of perceived responses. Results revealed that there is an extremely significant difference between the students’ performance in the traditional and interactive video approach, with p-value <.001. This further indicates that, on the average, the interactive video method is more efficient compared to the traditional teaching approach. There was also no significant relationship between the respondents’ attitude on the approach and their posttest scores with p-value 0.603.
Enhancing the Competitiveness of al-Andalus International School under the k to 12 Curriculum
Authors: Malagapo Eduardo P.
Published: May 2016

Today, schools are mandated to improve for global competitiveness, particularly those under the K to 12 curriculums. The study investigates the competitiveness of Al-Andalus International School under the K to 12 curriculums as basis for strategy formulation. The study used the descriptive method involving internal and external analysis of forces that affect business operations. Results showed that the Al-Andalus International School is able to manage the forces of change in its environment and is prepared under the K to 12 curriculums. Strategic plans are in place to insure competitiveness and sustainability in the future.