bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Installation Procedure on Bond Characteristics of Fully Grouted Rock Bolts
Authors: Ma Shuqi , Aziz Naj , Nemcik Jan , Mirzaghorbanali Ali
Published: September 2017

The bond characteristics of fully grouted rockbolts installed in steel tubes were investigated by bolt push tests. Steel tubes were inserted in a mine roadway roof to represent the confinement of rock boreholes. Rockbolts were installed in tubes using the installation technique of Australian underground mines. These tubes, with rockbolts inside, were retrieved from the field and brought back to the laboratory to be cut into 100-mm sections, which were then push tested. It was found that each bolt section had a distinct load-displacement profile, and that bond strength varied significantly along the bolt length. The factors influencing the bond strength of rockbolts were identified. The influence of the installation procedure on the bond strength of bolts in tubes was investigated.
Risk Factors for Respiratory Decompensation Among Healthy Infants With Bronchiolitis
Authors: Dadlez Nina M. , Esteban-Cruciani Nora , Khan Asama , Douglas Lindsey C. , Shi Yi , Southern William N.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND:

Although most children with bronchiolitis only require supportive care, some decompensate and require ventilatory support. We examined predictors of respiratory decompensation among hospitalized children to identify which patients may benefit from expectant monitoring.

METHODS:

We examined children ≤24 months old with bronchiolitis admitted to the general infant and toddler floor. Children with pneumonia or comorbidities were excluded. Demographic and clinical characteristics were abstracted from a clinical database and medical records. Respiratory decompensation was defined as the need for initiating high-flow nasal cannula oxygen, continuous positive airway pressure, nasal intermittent mandatory ventilation, bilevel positive airway pressure, or intubation. A multivariable logistic regression model was constructed to identify independent predictors of respiratory decompensation.

RESULTS:

A total of 1217 children were included. The median age was 6.9 months, 41% were girls, 49% were Hispanic, 21% were black, and 18% were premature. Significant independent predictors of respiratory decompensation were age ≤3 months (odds ratio [OR]: 3.25; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.09–5.07), age 3 to 6 months (OR: 1.76; 95% CI: 1.04–3.0), black race (OR: 1.94; 95% CI: 1.27–2.95), emergency department hypoxemia (OR: 2.34; 95% CI: 1.30–4.21), and retractions or accessory muscle use (OR: 2.26; 95% CI: 1.48–3.46). Children with 0 of 4 predictors were found to have a low risk of decompensation (3%).

CONCLUSIONS:

Young age, black race, emergency department hypoxemia, and retractions or accessory muscle use were associated with respiratory decompensation in children with bronchiolitis. These factors should be considered at presentation, as they identify children who require a higher level of respiratory monitoring and support and others who may not benefit.
Dietary Supplements, Isotretinoin, and Liver Toxicity in Adolescents: A Retrospective Case Series
Authors: DeKlotz Cynthia Marie Carver , Roby Keith D. , Friedlander Sheila Fallon
Published: September 2017

Isotretinoin is the most effective acne therapy available, but has the potential for a number of adverse side effects, including transaminitis. The iPLEDGE isotretinoin program recommends avoiding some herbals and supplements due to potential side effects. However, little is known about the effects of protein supplements on the liver, particularly in patients taking isotretinoin. We designed a retrospective chart review to evaluate the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of patients on or preparing to take isotretinoin therapy who were concurrently ingesting protein or herbal supplementation and who developed transaminitis. In 100% (8/8) of cases, dietary supplementation was determined to be at least a possible cause of elevated liver transaminases. In 75% (6/8) of cases, dietary supplement appears to be the most likely cause at some point in their evaluation. Most of our patients’ elevations in aspartate aminotransferase and/or alanine aminotransferase were likely caused by supplementation with protein, creatine, or herbal extracts, rather than prescribed isotretinoin or tetracycline antibiotics for acne. Hence, dietary supplementation may cause liver function abnormalities. As supplement usage appears common in teenagers, clinicians should consider counseling their patients to avoid these products, particularly when prescribing known hepatotoxic drugs.
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Thomas Rae , Abell Bridget , Webb Haley J. , Avdagic Elbina , Zimmer-Gembeck Melanie J.
Published: September 2017

CONTEXT:

Parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) is effective at reducing children’s externalizing behavior. However, modifications are often made to PCIT, and it is not known whether these impact effectiveness.

OBJECTIVE:

To systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of PCIT on child externalizing behaviors, considering modifications, study design, and bias.

DATA SOURCES:

We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, Education Resources Information Center, Sociological Abstracts, and A+ Education.

STUDY SELECTION:

We selected randomized controlled or quasi-experimental trials.

DATA EXTRACTION:

We analyzed child externalizing and internalizing behaviors, parent stress, parent-child interactions, PCIT format, and study design and/or characteristics.

RESULTS:

We included 23 studies (1144 participants). PCIT was superior to control for reducing child externalizing (standardized mean difference [SMD]: −0.87, 95% confidence interval [CI]:−1.17 to −0.58). PCIT studies that required skill mastery had significantly greater reductions in externalizing behavior than those that did not (Mastery: SMD: −1.09, 95% CI: −1.44 to −0.73; Nonmastery: SMD: −0.51,95% CI: −0.85 to −0.17, P = .02). Compared with controls, PCIT significantly reduced parent-related stress (mean difference [MD]: −6.98, 95% CI: −11.69 to −2.27) and child-related stress (MD: −9.87, 95% CI: −13.64 to −6.09). Children in PCIT were observed to be more compliant to parent requests (SMD: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.50 to 1.28) compared with controls. PCIT effectiveness did not differ depending on session length, location (academic versus community settings), or child problems (disruptive behaviors only compared with disruptive behavior and other problems).

LIMITATIONS:

Results for parent-child observations were inconsistently reported, reducing the ability to pool important data.

CONCLUSIONS:

PCIT has robust positive outcomes across multiple parent-reported and observed parent-child interaction measures, and modifications may not be required even when implemented in diverse populations.
Educación y medios en la escuela secundaria argentina: la mirada de los estudiantes
Authors: Romano María Belén
Published: September 2017

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación sobre las relaciones establecidas entre el discurso de los medios masivos de comunicación y la educación secundaria en Argentina. El objetivo del estudio es explorar las representaciones que los estudiantes construyen sobre discurso mediático, su valoración acerca del modo de abordaje de los medios en el aula y la evaluación que hicieron de lo aprendido a partir de las prácticas pedagógicas desarrolladas por los docentes. En el plano metodológico, la investigación fue definida como exploratoria y descriptiva y tuvo en cuenta aspectos cuantitativos y cualitativos. La principal técnica de recolección de datos fue la encuesta que se aplicó a 180 egresados recientes de instituciones públicas y privadas de la provincia de Tucumán, Argentina. Entre los resultados se destaca un porcentaje significativo de jóvenes que señalan no haber trabajado con el discurso de los medios durante su trayecto por la escuela secundaria. Asimismo, se observa el predominio del trabajo con géneros mediáticos tradicionales que se utilizan, fundamentalmente, como herramientas para transmitir conocimientos. Por su parte, los nuevos géneros mediáticos tienen una presencia poco significativa dentro del ámbito institucional. Estos datos reflejan la necesidad de reforzar los conceptos de educación en medios y competencia mediática como ejes vertebradores del currículum escolar y de promover prácticas de aprendizaje más sistemáticas, articuladas y críticas, que comprendan el discurso de los medios masivos como un fin en sí mismo y no solamente como instrumentos o vehículos de información
La comprensión de textos especializados. Un estudio polifónico-argumentativo sobre las dificultades de lectura en los estudios de formación docente en la Argentina
Authors: Tosi Carolina
Published: September 2017

Diversas investigaciones lingüísticas sostienen que los problemas de comprensión lectora que manifiestan los estudiantes de la educación superior responden a la falta de desarrollo temprano de las habilidades letradas vinculadas con los textos de estudio. Ubicado dentro esa perspectiva, el presente artículo se encarga de mostrar que las principales dificultades de lectura académica presentadas por el estudiantado de nivel terciario se relacionan con la inadecuación a la práctica lectora de textos especializados, así como con la escasa destreza en la reflexión metalingüística. Para llevar a cabo la investigación, se trabajó con una población de estudiantes ingresantes a un profesorado de Educación Primaria e Inicial, en la Ciudad de Buenos Aires (Argentina), y se implementó la modalidad de investigador “participante-observador”. El proceso de elaboración de los datos fue predominantemente cualitativo y el corpus de análisis se conformó con sesenta y tres producciones escritas, correspondientes a una actividad de comprensión lectora realizada sobre un texto argumentativo. Los resultados obtenidos manifiestan que los principales problemas de lectura detectados en el cuerpo estudiantil se vinculan con ciertos aspectos enunciativos y polifónicos de los textos. A lo largo del trabajo, se sistematizan las dificultades detectadas y se las asocia con las características de la configuración discursiva de los libros de texto, que se constituyen como el principal material de estudio de la escuela secundaria. Finalmente, el trabajo demuestra la importancia de poner en práctica “estrategias de facilitamiento” que fomenten la reflexión metalingüística del estudiantado, con el fin de mejorar su comprensión lectora.
Potencial de los proyectos para desarrollar motivación, competencias de razonamiento y pensamiento estadístico
Authors: Inzunza Cazares Santiago
Published: September 2017

Este artículo presenta resultados de una investigación sobre el potencial de los proyectos para desarrollar competencias de razonamiento y pensamiento estadístico, motivación e interés hacia la estadística. Los sujetos de estudio fueron 19 estudiantes con edades entre los 19 y 21 años de la carrera de Políticas Públicas de la Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa (México), quienes tomaban el curso de Probabilidad y Estadística. Para el análisis de la información se consideraron las etapas del ciclo de investigación estadística e indicadores de pensamiento estadístico que tienen lugar en cada una de ellas. La motivación se evaluó con una prueba de actitudes hacia la estadística. Los resultados muestran que los proyectos tienen potencial para ayudar al estudiantado a desarrollar una actitud positiva y sentido de utilidad hacia la estadística, ya que los promedios de las principales variables reflejaron una opinión favorable sobre el trabajo con proyectos. El análisis revela la presencia de diversos indicadores de pensamiento estadístico desarrollados por el estudiantado, tales como la identificación de problemas presentes en la recopilación de los datos y el reconocimiento de la importancia de los métodos aleatorios para generalizar la información de la muestra a la población. Aunque los procesos de transnumeración de los datos estuvieron enfocados principalmente en el análisis de variables individuales mediante construcción de gráficas, fue suficiente para identificar algunas hipótesis plausibles del comportamiento de la población de donde provenían los datos. El análisis bivariado de datos tuvo poca presencia en los proyectos de los y las estudiantes
Estilos de pensamiento y elección profesional en tres universidades mexicanas
Authors: Valadez Huizar Martha , Zarabozo Enríquez de Rivera Daniel
Published: September 2017

Se han demostrado diferencias de los Estilos de Pensamiento (EP) de estudiantes universitarios entre las distintas carreras profesionales, lo que provee evidencia sobre la socialización de los EP en diferentes ambientes de formación profesional, pero carecemos de estudios que muestren si la elección profesional es influida por los EP. El objetivo de este artículo fueron describir las relaciones entre los EP y la elección profesional, e investigar si existen diferencias entre la universidad pública y las universidades privadas, con el propósito de obtener datos psicoeducativos que puedan mostrar las características cognitivas del estudiantado desde su ingreso a la universidad. Es un estudio cuantitativo, transversal descriptivo y comparativo, en el que participaron 2 877 estudiantes de primer ingreso a una universidad pública y dos privadas, inscritos en 14 carreras que se agruparon en 5 áreas temáticas: Administrativa (n = 967), Arquitectura/Diseño (n = 449), Ingeniería (n = 454), Salud (n = 272) y Social (n = 574), a los que se les aplicó el Cuestionario de Estilos de Pensamiento de 104 reactivos de Sternberg. Los resultados sugieren una relación entre los EP y la elección del área profesional, muestran un perfil general de EP en los universitarios y la existencia de diferencias de EP entre estudiantes de universidades públicas y universidades privadas, y entre las cinco áreas profesionales. Los resultados apoyan la socialización de los EP y proporcionan indicios para investigar los cambios cognitivos orientados al desarrollo de una “cultura de EP profesional” desde el ingreso hasta el egreso de la comunidad estudiantil.
¿Cómo forman al profesorado en Educación Secundaria en Alemania?
Authors: Chaves Salas Ana Lupita , Kunze Ingrid , Müller-Using Susanne , Nakamura Yoshiro
Published: September 2017

Esta investigación bibliográfica da conocer el modelo de formación de docentes en Educación Secundaria de Alemania, específicamente de la Universidad de Osnabrück, del estado de Baja Sajonia. La información se obtuvo como producto de la investigación: Modelos de Formación Docente en Educación Secundaria: análisis y propuesta, inscrita en el Instituto de Investigación en Educación (INIE) de la Facultad de Educación de la Universidad de Costa Rica, mediante la cual se analizaron los planes de estudio para la preparación del profesorado de diferentes países, entre ellos el que se presenta en este artículo. Se describen, además, los niveles y modalidades del sistema educativo alemán, el cual incluye la educación profesional dual. Se destaca la importancia de la definición de estándares para la formación de docentes realizada en ese país a nivel federal, lo cual contribuye a establecer un perfil profesional básico del docente, que debe ser atendido por las universidades que forman estos profesionales, así como la relevancia del modelo de formación concurrente, entre otros temas. Para finalizar, se resaltan algunos aspectos de la formación docente en Alemania que podrían servir como referencia para mejorar la preparación del profesorado en nuestro país.
Situación laboral de las académicas en instituciones de educación superior. León, Guanajuato, 2012-2015
Authors: Cánovas Marmo Célica Esther
Published: September 2017

Este artículo recupera una investigación realizada de 2012 al 2015, que indagó las percepciones laborales de académicas en cuatro Instituciones de Educación Superior (IES), del municipio de León, Estado de Guanajuato, México; su objetivo era comprobar si el contexto institucional reforzaba el sistema sexo-género, impidiéndoles el desarrollo profesional académico. La metodología cualitativa de tipo exploratorio utilizada, buscó conocer las vivencias de diez académicas que tuviesen Maestría o Doctorado –o lo estuvieran cursando–; la selección se hizo, primero por conveniencia, luego por avalancha, cerrándose con un muestreo deliberado; siendo abordadas mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas por un guión previo. Este muestreo no probabilístico cualitativo estuvo precedido por una exploración cuantitativa sobre la población desagregada por género, en lo que resultó un total de IES, 64 privadas y 11 públicas, con 82 y 16 planteles, respectivamente; se denotó que en los cargos de docentes, docentes-investigadores e investigadores –de tiempo parcial o completo–; ejercían la docencia una minoría de mujeres –15% menos en las IES privadas y 20% en las públicas–; el número de docentes-investigadores en el periodo estudiado decreció, tanto hombres como mujeres; y en las tareas de investigador de tiempo completo, no había mujeres. El análisis crítico del discurso de las entrevistadas evidenció que el sistema sexo-género imperante en la academia, hacía que el género actuara como un regulador de las prácticas laborales, subordinando a las mujeres al poder de los varones; coartando así, su desarrollo profesional. Por lo expuesto, se concluyó que, si bien la normatividad institucional promovía la igualdad de género, la cultura institucional mantenía a las mujeres en un plano subalterno.
Emergence of NDM-1 among carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in Iraqi hospitals
Authors: Hussein Nadheema Hammood
Published: September 2017

Carbapenems are the last drugs of choice apart from colistin against serious infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. However, there are increasing number of reports indicating prevailing emergence of metallo-β-lactamase (MBL)-producing clinical isolates worldwide and among them New Delhi MBL (NDM) is the most prevalent one. This study reports NDM-1 for the first time among Klebsiella pneumoniae from hospitalized patients in Baghdad, Iraq. Fifty-five clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae resistant to carbapenem were investigated from burned wounds, sputum, and blood samples. The susceptibility to different antibiotics was tested by VITEK-2 system. All strains were multidrug-resistant and they showed nine different antimicrobial-resistant patterns (A-I) and the most effective antibiotic on these strains was levofloxacin (85.45%). The phenotypic detection of carbapenemases by MASTDISCS D70C revealed 29 (52.73%) strains were MBL-producing, out of 55 were carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae strains. The blaNDM-1 and other MBL genes were detected by conventional PCR and the result showed 37 (67.27%) strains positive for blaNDM-1 gene and only 5 (9.1%) strains harbored blaIMP gene, while all strains were negative for blaVIM, blaSIM, blaGIM, and blaSPM genes. Our results showed the coexistence of both blaNDM-1 and blaIMP genes in three strains of K. pneumoniae, while indicated widespread NDM-1 in Baghdad, Iraq. Hence, it is necessary to follow proper infection control practices and physicians should be aware of the patients with such risk factors.
Why the Delivery of Religious and Spiritual Support to People of Any Faith and None is Important
Authors: Rusted Giselle
Published: September 2017

The aim of the research was to observe and scrutinize how chaplains go about facilitating a sacred space, when requested, in the last days and hours of life. The research sought to identify the context in which chaplains are compelled to facilitate religious and spiritual rituals and what perspectives participants have of chaplains when creating a sacred space within non-orthodox, clinical spaces; how and why it is important for chaplains to deliver religious and spiritual support. It also sought to understand the added value of chaplaincy in relation to high quality patient care in relation to the 6 C’s born out of the Francis Report. The research used a cross sectional design study with purposive sampling and carried out ten one-to-one interviews with hospital staff who had experienced chaplaincy. They were selected from different areas of the hospital. Using a thematic analysis process to identify emerging themes, the research was able to achieve an in-depth understanding of the contributions made by chaplains to patient and family experience at the point of dying and death. As well as the data acquired from the interviews, the research was also able to use the participant observations of the researcher, who is a chaplain. The research produced good data, generating diverse and different insights. The conclusion was that death is perceived as a significant rite of passage which requires marking, subject to a variety of expectations, and that those best placed to deliver this service are chaplains, who are perceived as practitioners in this eld. An attempt has been made, in the conclusions and recommendations, to align the gifts and experience of chaplaincy to demonstrate that they consistently deliver against the recommendations for the 6C’s framework.
Outcomes of Advanced Gastric Cancer Patients Treated with at Least Three Lines of Systemic Chemotherapy
Authors: Fanotto Valentina , Uccello Mario , Pecora Irene , Rimassa Lorenza , Leone Francesco , Rosati Gerardo , Santini Daniele , Giampieri Riccardo , Di Donato Samantha , Tomasello Gianluca , Silvestris Nicola , Pietrantonio Filippo , Battaglin Francesca , Avallone Antonio , Scartozzi Mario , Lutrino Eufemia Stefania , Melisi Davide , Antonuzzo Lorenzo , Pellegrino Antonio , Ferrari Laura , Bordonaro Roberto , Vivaldi Caterina , Gerratana Lorenzo , Bozzarelli Silvia , Filippi Roberto , Bilancia Domenico , Russano Marco , Aprile Giuseppe
Published: September 2017

Background

Second-line therapy has consistently demonstrated survival benefit if compared with best supportive care; however, there is limited evidence whether further lines of treatment may improve the prognosis of advanced gastric cancer (AGC) patients.

Materials and Methods

Starting from a real-world cohort of 868 AGC patients, we retrospectively analyzed baseline parameters, tumor characteristics, and treatment data of those treated with at least three lines. Categorical features were described through cross-tables and chi-square test. We explored the impact of treatment intensity and progression-free survival (PFS) experienced in previous lines on PFS and overall survival in third-line by uni- and multivariate Cox regression models and described by Kaplan-Meier estimator plot with log-rank test.

Results

Overall, 300 patients were included in the analysis. The most common site of primary tumor was gastric body; 45.3% of cancers had an intestinal histotype, 14% were human epidermal growth receptor 2 positive. In third-line, 45.7% of patients received a single-agent chemotherapy, 49.7% a combination regimen. Patients who had experienced a first-line PFS ≥6.9 months had a better prognosis compared with those who had achieved a shorter one. Consistently, a second-line PFS ≥3.5 months positively influenced the prognosis. Patients receiving a third-line combination regimen had better outcomes compared with those treated with a single-agent chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Our real-world study confirms that selected AGC patients may receive third-line treatment. Longer PFS in previous lines or a more intense third-line treatment positively influenced prognosis. Further efforts are warranted to define the best therapeutic sequences, and to identify the optimal candidate for treatment beyond second-line.
Next-Generation Sequencing for Patients with Sarcoma: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Cote Gregory M. , He Jie , Choy Edwin
Published: September 2017

Background

Sarcomas comprise over 50 subtypes of mesenchymal cancers. For the majority of sarcomas, the driver mutations remain unknown. In this article, we describe our experience with a targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform in clinic patients.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed results of NGS using 133 tumor samples from patients diagnosed with a variety of sarcomas that were analyzed with targeted NGS covering over 400 cancer-related genes (405 DNA, 265 RNA) on a commercially available platform.

Results

An average of two gene alterations were identified per tumor sample (range 0–14), and a total of 342 DNA mutations were detected. Eight-eight percent of samples had at least one detected mutation. The most common mutations were in the cell cycle, including TP53 (n = 35), CDKN2A/B (n = 23), and RB1 (n = 19). Twenty-seven PI3-kinase pathway alterations were observed, including PTEN (n = 14), PIK3Ca (n = 4), TSC1 (n = 1), TSC2 (n = 3), STK11 (n = 1), mTOR (n = 3), and RICTOR (n = 2). There were 75 mutations in genes that are targetable with existing drugs (excluding KIT in gastrointestinal stromal tumor) that would allow enrollment onto clinical trials. In general, the estimated tumor mutation burden was low, in particular for those with disease-defining gene fusions or genetic alterations. Microsatellite instability (MSI) data were available for 50 patients, and all were MSI stable.

Conclusion

Our study describes a single-center experience with targeted NGS for patients with sarcoma. Mutations were readily detected and 75 (representing 40% of patients) were testable for therapeutic effect using existing drugs within the confines of a clinical trial. These data indicate that targeted NGS is a useful tool in potentially routing patients to mutation-specific clinical trials. Further study will be required to determine if these mutations are clinically meaningful drug targets in sarcoma.

Implications for Practice

The sarcomas are a heterogenous family of over 50 different mesenchymal tumors. Current practice for metastatic disease involves systemic chemotherapy or nonspecific kinase inhibitors such as pazopanib. Sarcomas typically lack the classic kinase alterations seen in many carcinomas. The role of next-generation sequencing in sarcoma clinical practice remains undefined.
Comparative analysis of the seismic behaviour of SRUHSC columns and frames under reverse cyclic loading
Authors: Ma Yingchao , Jia Jinqing , Zhu Weiqing
Published: September 2017

Comparative analyses are conducted on experiments in which steel-reinforced ultra-high-strength concrete (SRUHSC) columns and SRUHSC frames are tested under reverse cyclic loadings. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of axial compression ratio on the seismic performance of SRUHSC columns and SRUHSC frames and to examine the distinction between the seismic behaviour of individual columns and that of the frame structures. Taking axial compression ratio as the primary study parameter, the failure mode, hysteresis curve, skeleton curve, stiffness degradation, energy dissipation capacity and residual displacement of the SRUHSC column and SRUHSC frame are systematically analysed. The analysis results show that, with the increase of axial compression ratio, individual SRUHSC columns are characterised by bending failure, whereas SRUHSC frames are characterised by bending-bond failure. Consequently, the deterioration of seismic performance is observed when comparing SRUHSC frames with individual columns, and the reduction factor should be considered if the seismic design of SRUHSC frame structures is based on the performance evaluation of individual columns.
Is agricultural extension positioned to promote agripreneurship in South Africa?
Authors: Stevens J
Published: September 2017

A shift from agriculture to agribusiness is an essential pathway to revitalise small-scale agriculture in South Africa and to make it more attractive and a profitable venture. The question is whether small-scale farmers can become entrepreneurs and how well is extension positioned to support farmers to foster entrepreneurship? There are two parts to entrepreneurship, the first is the managerial skills required to start and run a profitable farm business. Second is the "entrepreneurial spirit". Important to realise is that you cannot create an entrepreneur, but you can create the environment that will help them thrive. Governments and donors must invest in institutions and infrastructure that support them. Economic policies and financial incentives must be put in place to inspire a generation of agripreneurs. This paper aims to emphasise the importance that farmers must be linked to markets to take advantage of the opportunities arising along the agribusiness value chain. Successful entrepreneurship requires a strong enabling environment of which political will and leadership is important, but also strong private interest. Extension has a critical role to play in supporting farmers to develop their entrepreneurial skills through training and by providing technical assistance.
Enhancing ESL Learners’ Vocabulary Learning of Metaphorically-used Words
Authors: Veliz Leonardo
Published: September 2017

The present study examined the role of awareness of metaphor in learners’ lexical learning. A total of 35 intermediate English as second language (ESL) students participated in this study. Participants were randomly divided into two small groups. One (N = 17) served as the control group and the other (N = 18) as the experimental group. Both groups were taught several metaphorically-used expressions over a period of six weeks. The groups differed in that the experimental group received systematic and explicit explanations of the source and target relationships that underlie metaphor, while the control group did not receive such instruction. Pre-tests and Post-tests were administered in order to measure lexical understanding of metaphorical items. Two journal entries were given out to students at two different intervals throughout the teaching period in order to tap into their views of how their lexical understanding of metaphor was changing, or not changing, over time. Results revealed that those students who received systematic and explicit explanations on the concrete experiential basis of metaphor showed greater understanding of metaphorical meanings, and seemed more inclined to unpacking their metaphoricity by looking at what lies behind them.
The CEFR Stratification of English Productive Vocabulary of Chinese University Undergraduates Based on DIY Learner English Corpus
Authors: Sun Dongyun
Published: September 2017

This paper analyzes the productive vocabulary (PV) of non-English majors in a highly prestigious university in China through a DIY learner corpus of English compositions and the Productive Vocabulary Level Test. Based on the total PV and the average PV, this paper compares the corpus with the CEFR-aligned English Vocabulary Profile (EVP) of Cambridge University. The results show that some of the outstanding students can attain Level B2 of EVP while most students’ PV is comparable to Level B1. The results of this study shed light on strengthening vocabulary teaching in College English teaching in China.
The Form, Function, and Value of Buginese Utterances of Bone Society
Authors: Sua Andi Tenri , Anshari Anshari , Maman Mayong
Published: September 2017

This study discusses the exploration of form, function, and value of Buginese utterance of Bone society. This study aims at discovering, exploring, and explaining the form, function, and value Buginese utterance of Bone society. This study theoretically could be used by scientists to utilize the results of this research as new insights and materials for further studies of oral literature of Buginese society in Bone. The results showed that the utterance of Buginese society in Bone has six forms namely, proverbs, parables, sayings, metaphor, irony, and idioms. The Buginese utterance of Bone society has four functions, namely educative function, the personal ethics function, moral function, and social function. It has three values, namely religious, philosophical, ethical values. Religious value contains the value of the recognition of God and recognition of the good destiny and fate. Philosophical value contains the value of man as a creature of God, man as a personal being, and human beings as social creatures. Ethical value contains the value of ethics against God, against oneself ethics, and ethics of fellow human beings.
On Translation of Electric Power English from the Perspective of Translation Aesthetics
Authors: Shen Min , Lv Liangqiu
Published: September 2017

The translation of electric power English is getting prominent with the expanding of national grid and frequent exchanges of power industry among countries. From the perspective of translation aesthetics, electric power English translation is a language transformation activity that combines science and art together. Beginning with introduction to translation aesthetics theory and electric power English, under three criteria for judging aesthetic value of electric power English, this paper shall probe into the beauty of accuracy, conciseness, rhetoric and logic of electric power English and its translation. On the basis of analysis, translation techniques are proposed to represent these beauties in light of translation aesthetics.
The Effect of One-way and Two-way Tasks on Iranian EFL Learners’ Lexical Learning
Authors: Shadabi Saeedeh , Golshan Mohammad , Sayadian Sima
Published: September 2017

This study investigated the effect of one-way and two-way tasks on lexical learning of Iranian pre-intermediate EFL learners. Participants included 40 male and female Iranian EFL learners with the age range of 11-21, at the pre-intermediate level and from two English language institutes. They were assigned to two experimental groups: a one-way-task group and a two-way-task group. Knowledge of the intended lexes was established by a pre-test. The experimental groups underwent different treatments for eight 30-minute sessions during which they told stories based on the picture-cued stories. After the treatment, a post-test and a delayed post-test were administered. The results of the one-way repeated measures ANOVAs indicated that both one-way and two-way tasks had a significant effect on the learning of lexis. Meanwhile, gain scores of pretest, posttest, and delayed posttest were compared using independent samples T-tests. It indicated that two-way tasks, compared to one-way tasks, were more effective in the retention of lexes. The findings of this study could attract the attention of material developers to include one-way and two-way tasks in the books. Teacher trainers and EFL teachers could utilize similar task types in the classroom and could provide EFL learners with an effective way of vocabulary acquisition.
The Role of Schema in Constructing Cross-cultural Minds for Students in Local Universities
Authors: Li Lijuan
Published: September 2017

Students studying and living in local universities find themselves failing in conducting fluent communication with people with different cultural backgrounds, due to the rare access to direct interactions with foreigners in person. Hence, to change that situation and help them construct cross-cultural minds is severely necessary. Abundant of achievements on cross-cultural communication have been reached, and a lot of rewards in the research have been granted to those studies analyzed, discussed and interpreted from the perspective of social-psychology, which can not propose an appropriate and efficient approach to constructing cross-cultural minds for students in the local universities. The studies from the perspective of cognitive process and more specifically the schema theory, however, can claim due attention to understand and construct the procedure of intercultural communication where multi-cultures are represented, processed and accommodated. This work is intended to address the issues of how students can efficiently obtain knowledge, how multicultural knowledge can be effectively acquired by students, and how beliefs can be shared and multicultural minds constructed finally.
A Study of English Translation of Colloquial Expressions in Two Translations of Jamalzadeh: Once Upon a Time and Isfahan Is Half the World
Authors: Jalalpour Elham , Tabrizi Hossein Heidari
Published: September 2017

The purpose of this study was to explore the translation of one of the sub-categories of culture-bound items that is colloquial and slang expressions from Persian to English in two works by Jamalzadeh, Yeki Bud, Yeki Nabud translated by Moayyed & Sprachman and Sar o Tah e Yek Karbas translated by Heston. Applying Newmark’s (1988b) framework, the type and frequency of translation procedures applied by translators as well as the effectiveness of the translators in preserving the level of colloquialism of source texts were determined. The results of this descriptive study revealed that the translators had applied 6 procedures: synonymy (%51), paraphrase (%26.5), literal (%8.5), descriptive equivalent (%2.5 ), couplet (%2) , shift (%1), omission (%5) and mistranslation (%3.5). As for maintaining the informal style of the source texts, the co-translators of the book of Yeki, Sprachman (native English translator) and Moayyed (native Persian translator) have been more consistent and successful in preserving the tone of the original text than Heston (native English translator of Sar). This success can be partly justified by the acquaintance of Moayyed with Persian language and culture making the correct recognition and translation of expressions possible.
Comparative analysis of expression of genes encoding enzymes of catecholamine catabolism and renalase in tissues of normotensive and hypertensive rats
Authors: Fedchenko V.I. , Medvedev A.E.
Published: September 2017

Comparative analysis of expression of genes encoding enzymes of catecholamine catabolism (monoaminbe oxidases A and B (MAO A and MAO B) and catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT)) and renalase has been carried out in tissues of normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Among investigated tissues the highest level of mRNA of genes encoding key enzymes of catecholamine catabolism (MAO A, MAO B, COMT) was found in the heart of WKY rats. In SHR the mRNA levels of these genes were lower (p<0.05-0.01), however, no similar changes were observed in the tissues studied in dependence of hypertension. The relative mRNA levels of the studied genes normalized versus actin mRNA significantly varied. In heart and kidney the relative level of COMT mRNA significantly exceeded the relative levels of both MAO A mRNA and MAO B mRNA. In the brain differences in mRNAs of MAOA, MAOB, and COMT were less pronounced. However, in all examined tissue the renalase mRNA level was much (at least 10-20-fold) lower than any other mRNA studied. Taking into consideration known correlations between mRNAs and corresponding protein products reported in the literature for many genes these results suggest that in the case of any catalytic scenarios proposed or even proved for renalase this protein cannot contribute to catecholamine degradation. It is also unlikely that the products of renalase reaction, b-NAD(P)+ and hydrogen peroxide, can exhibit a hypotensive effect due to low expression of the renalase encoding gene.
The effect of neurotoxin MPTP administration to mice on the proteomic profile of brain isatin-binding proteins
Authors: Buneeva O.A. , Kopylov A.T. , Nerobkova L.N. , Kapitsa I.G. , Zgoda V.G. , Medvedev A.E.
Published: September 2017

Isatin (indole-2,3-dione) is an endogenous indole found in the mammalian brain, peripheral organs and body fluids. It acts as a neuroprotector, which decreases manifestation of locomotor impairments in animal models of Parkinson's disease. A wide range of biological activity of isatin is associated with interaction of this regulator with numerous isatin-binding proteins. The aim of this study was to investigate the profile of brain isatin-binding proteins in mice with MPTP-induced Parkinsonism (90 min and seven days after administration of this neurotoxin). A single dose administration of MPTP (30 mg/kg, ip.) was accompanied by locomotor impairments in the open field test 90 min after administration; seven days after MPTP administration locomotor activity of mice significantly improved but did not reach the control level. Five independent experiments on proteomic profiling of isatin-binding proteins resulted in confident identification of 96±12 proteins. Development of MPTP-induced locomotor impairments was accompanied by a significant decrease in the number of isatin-binding proteins (63±6; n=5; p<0.01). Seven days after MPTP administration the total number of identified proteins increased and reached the control level (132±34; n=4). The profiles of isatin-binding proteins were rather specific for each group of mice: in the control group these proteins (which were not found in both groups of MPTP-treated mice) represented more than 70% of total proteins. In the case of MPTP treated mice this parameter was 60% (90 min after MPTP administration) and >82% (seven days after MPTP administration). The major changes were found in the groups of isatin-binding proteins involved into cytoskeleton formation and exocytosis, regulation of gene expression, cell division and differentiation and also proteins involved in signal transduction.
Protective action of fish muscle extracts against cellular senescence induced by oxidative stress
Authors: Mikhailova M.V. , Belyaeva N.F. , Kozlova N.I. , Zolotarev K.V. , Mikhailov A.N. , Berman A.E. , Archakov A.I.
Published: September 2017

Muscle extracts of some fish species, i.e. pike (Esox lucius), sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus), pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) and, to a lesser extent, perch (Perca fluviatilis) and Russian sturgeon, (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii) prevent the development of premature senescence of the human embryonic fibroblasts induced by the sublethal concentration of H2O2. Muscle extracts of other fish species tested, i.e. coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) and zander (Sander lucioperca), have not demonstrated this feature. Cell proliferation increased after the action of the senescence-inhibiting muscle extracts. Possible mechanisms of the action of nature biologically active compounds that interfere with the development of stress-induced cell senescence are discussed.
Memórias do Urwald no Brasil meridional: negociações e riscos da colonização florestal teuto-brasileira
Authors: Relly Eduardo
Published: September 2017

O assentamento de populações de origens germânicas no sul do Brasil é largamente dependente da colonização das florestas meridionais do bioma Mata Atlântica. Embora este seja um fato fundamental da história das colonizações do território brasileiro, poucas foram as análises dirigidas no sentido de se historiar a memória do espaço florestal em questão. Logo, este texto objetiva através de documentos como diários de imigrantes/descendentes, relatos de viajantes, literatura e outros, vislumbrar a floresta teuto-brasileira em torno da memória de Urwald, ou seja, enquanto uma construção socioambiental dos teuto-brasileiros desde o século XIX. Entre os teuto-brasileiros se verifica, frequentemente, a existência de uma memória florestal largamente conectada às ideias dos riscos, sacrifícios, superações e vitórias sobre o ambiente da mata; igualmente tal memória tangencia as experiências florestais dos atores migrantes ainda na dimensão da floresta centro-europeia. Este artigo explorará tais questões, no sentido de se erigir uma discussão acerca da memória do Urwald por meio de um exemplo concreto, solidificado em torno da Picada Essig, município de Travesseiro/RS, Brasil.
Apresentação do Dossiê: “Rememorando o Sesquicentenário da Confederação no Canadá (1867-2017)”
Authors: Bernd Zilá , Berg Oscar Augusto
Published: September 2017

Apresentação do dossiê temático sobre o Sesquicentenário da confederação canadense, salientando os detalhes das quatro contribuições que compõem o dossiê temático que inclui uma entrevista com o diretor do Centre International de la francophoni com sede em Quebec. O dossier conta ainda com  aparticipação da colega Ofelia Scher da Unviersidad de Buenos Aires, com artigo composto em parcceria com  aprofa. Tatiana Maia e scar Berg e   com uma tradução realaizada por Janaína Nazzari Gomes.
Экспериментальный подход к формированию модели компетенций инновационного специалиста
Authors: Шаповалов Владимир Николаевич , Петрова Ольга Анатольевна , Ровенская Алия Исмаиловна
Published: September 2017

В статье предложен новый подход к формированию модели компетенций специалиста инновационного типа, в основе которого лежит интеграция образовательной и инновационной деятельности. Описан опыт применения данного подхода на примере специальности «Связи с общественностью» Ульяновского государственного технического университета. Определены социокультурные компетенции, составляющие модель инновационного специалиста. Проведен сравнительный анализ предложенного перечня компетенций с другими исследованиями. Представлена разработанная авторами методика оценки социокультурных компетенций. Приведены результаты апробации методики на примере специальности «Связи с общественностью». Выделены и описаны с точки зрения функциональных и социокультурных характеристик студентов-участников эксперимента уровни развития их социокультурных компетенций. Проанализированы результаты применения авторской методики на гуманитарных, экономических и технических специальностях вузов Ульяновской области.
Новые технологии налогового администрирования: системный анализ в налоговом контроле
Authors: Шмакова Александра Викторовна
Published: September 2017

В статье рассматриваются вопросы системного анализа в технологиях налоговых органов при определении объекта для проведения самой сложной формы контроля - выездной налоговой проверки.
Особенности адаптации персонала многонациональной организации
Authors: Васин Сергей Михайлович , Прохорова Юлия Евгеньевна
Published: September 2017

В статье проведен анализ особенностей адаптации персонала многонациональной организации. Актуальность адаптации экспатов в организации заключается в практической значимости управления человеческими ресурсами многонационального предприятия.
Целью настоящего исследования является анализ специфики адаптации экспатов к трудовой деятельности, а также разработки критериев адаптации персонала в многонациональной организации.
Достижение поставленной цели позволит определить влияние адаптации экспатов в многонациональной организации на эффективность ее деятельности.
EFFECTS OF DIFLUBENZURON ON LARVAL DEVELOPMENT OF ZAPRINONUS PARAVITTIGER (GODBLE AND VAIDYA) (DIPTERA: DROSOPHILIDAE)
Authors: Chopra Parvesh K. , Rup Pushpinder J.
Published: September 2017

Feeding of diflubenzuron to different-aged larvae of banana fruitfly, Zaprionus paravittiger (Godble and Vaidya), produced a differential susceptibility. The first-instar larvae were significantly more susceptible than the second- and third-instar larvae. The ID 50 (50% inhibitory dose) values for adult emergence were 0.16, 0.32 and 0.95 ppm for first-, second-, and third-instar larvae, respectively. The frequency of morphological abnormalities increased and F1 adults failed to reproduce. Furthermore, the total body glycogen increased and total body proteins decreased after feeding diflubenzuron to second-instar larvae for 24 h.
REARING THE LESSER CORNSTALK BORER:1 FUNGICIDES FOR CONTROL OF ASPERGILLUS NIGER2
Authors: Lynch Robert E. , Reed Tim
Published: September 2017

Several sanitary procedures were employed and the fungicides benomyl, captan, maneb-zinc, zinc ion-maneb complex, and triphenyltin hydroxide in autoclaved vermiculite were evaluated for control Aspergillus niger van Tieghem in rearing the lesser cornstalk borer, Elasmopalpus lingnosellus (Zeller). Sanitary procedures reduced the incidence of mold only slightly. Benomyl, at 0.25 g/100 g of vermiculite, had minimal detrimental effects on the biology of lesser cornstalk borer larvae and was highly effective in controlling A. niger. Triphenyltin hydroxide was highly toxic to lesser cornstalk borer larvae at all levels evaluated.