bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Till the ocean do us part: Italian and American therapists representations of stepfamilies in treatment
Authors: Accordini Monica , Browning Scott , Gennari Marialuisa , McCarthy Kevin , Margola Davide
Published: October 2017

Research often focuses on the characteristics of stepfamilies and their differences with first-union families; however, few studies take into account the therapis's perspective with regards to the treatment of such families. Also, cross-cultural research on the topic is limited. To fill these gaps, a content analysis of responses from 125 Italian and 45 American therapists regarding their representations of stepfamilies and stepfamily therapy was undertaken. Results show that American therapists emphasized specific stepfamily characteristics (e.g., the lack of a shared family history, the occurrence of conflict between former spouses, the presence of unrealistic expectations towards treatment) to a greater extent if compared to Italian therapists. By contrast, besides being more general in their definition of stepfamilies, Italian therapists focused more on themselves, their theoretical models, and their professional and personal skills. The study provides insights on both the differences in the clinical cultures of the two countries and implications for stepfamily therapy and training.
Analytical psychodrama with college students suffering from mental health problems: Preliminary outcomes
Authors: Biolcati Roberta , Agostini Francesca , Mancini Giacomo
Published: October 2017

The aim of this work was to assess the therapeutic efficacy of analytical psychodrama groups for college students with psychological problems. Analytical psychodrama, as a form of group psychotherapy, is an integral part of the program of treatment of young adults in the Counselling Center of the University of Bologna, which provides a free service for its students, aimed at delivering psychological support. Thirty patients (22 females) from 20 to 26 years old (mean age 22.33, standard deviationÂ±1.75), suffering from mental health problems, who completed one year of psychodrama, were assessed before and after group psychotherapy. The Italian validation of Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation â€“ Outcome Measure was used as test-retest questionnaire for clinical outcome evaluation. The results demonstrated the efficacy of the treatment in terms of symptom decrease and improvement of patientsâ€™ well being. After the treatment (40 sessions, once a week), patients showed a statistically significant reduction in clinical outcomes scores compared with pre-treatment scores. Moreover, the analyses of Reliable and Clinical Significant Change index showed that about 30% of patients improved, and this improvement was reliable and/or clinically significant. Our preliminary findings revealed that analytical psychodrama is a suitable treatment for college students, as it actually reduces young adultsâ€™ symptoms. These results contribute to the topic of the validity of psychodrama interventions to encourage research regarding the specific psychotherapeutic effects of its method.
Balancing clinical risk with countertransference management protects alliance
Authors: Barreto Joào F. , Matos Paula Mena
Published: October 2017

The working alliance has been recognized as a predictor of psychotherapy outcome across therapeutic orientations. Despite mixed findings regarding the effect of problem severity on the alliance formation, there is evidence suggesting that therapist factors may interfere in this association. This study examined how clients baseline clinical features affected the early alliance and the possible role of therapists countertransference management as a mediator. Thirteen therapeutic dyads were assessed at 2 different time points. Clients clinical dimensions were assessed prior to the 2nd session, and therapists countertransference management and clients ratings of the alliance were measured after the 2nd session. Positive associations were found between clients subjective wellbeing, social functioning, risk, and global psychological distress and countertransference management dimensions and total score. Empathy-based countertransference management suppressed the negative impact of clinical risk on alliance. Our findings suggest that clinical problems activate countertransference management, which in turn may buffer their negative effect on alliance.
Demand planning approaches employed by clothing industry stakeholders in Gauteng, South Africa
Authors: Matsoma Ntombizodwa J. , Ambe Intaher M.
Published: October 2017

Background: The decline in the productivity of the South African clothing industry was attributed to changing trends in the number of clothing production organisations, which together with a decline in manufacturing output and a fluctuation in employment had all contributed to complexities in demand planning.Purpose: This article investigates demand planning approaches in the clothing industry in Gauteng.Method: A descriptive study was conducted based on a structured questionnaire.Findings: The results revealed that both hierarchical and optimal approaches should be considered in clothing manufacturing.Managerial implications: In order to improve demand planning practices in the clothing industry, managers are recommended to apply hierarchical and optimal demand planning approaches, which might bring about improvements to demand planning in the Gauteng clothing industry.Conclusion: It is recommended that clothing manufacturers consider the types of product offering before making decisions about adopting the hierarchical or optimal demand planning approaches. When planning for basic clothes, manufacturers should consider a hierarchical demand planning approach, whereas the optimal demand planning approach is recommended for fashion clothes.
Morphometric Study of C1 Pedicle and Feasibility Evaluation of C1 Pedicle Screw Placement with a Novel Clinically Relevant Radiological Classification in an Indian Population
Authors: Srivastava Abhishek , Mahajan Rajat , Nanda Ankur , Nanda Geetanjali , Mishra Nirajana , Kanagaraju Vijayant , Batra Sahil , Chhabra Harvinder Singh
Published: October 2017

Study Design

A retrospective computed tomography (CT)-based morphometric study of 84 C1pedicles in an Indian population focusing on critical morphometric dimensions vis-a-vis C1 pedicle screw placement.

Purpose

To determine the feasibility of C1 pedicle screw placement in an Indian population and propose a novel classification system for the same.

Overview of Literature

At present, C1 pedicle screws are rarely used, and very few studies have focused on the feasibility of pedicle screw placement in terms of racial, gender, and ethnic variations in anatomical structures. There are no CT-based data on C1 pedicles that assess the feasibility of pedicle screw placement in the Indian population.

Methods

We measured C1 pedicle diameter on CT coronal scan images of 42 adult patients. Extramedullary height (EMH) and intramedullary height (IMH) were measured. We examined the differences between the right and left atlas pedicles and compared measures between males and females. These data were analyzed using significance tests. Based on the results, we propose a novel classification system, which we believe will help in determining the feasibility of C1 pedicle screw placement.

Results

Forty-two adult patients (84 pedicles) were examined. Average EMH and IMH were 4.48±0.91 and 0.86±0.77, respectively. Approximately, 32% of the C1 pedicles had bone thicknesses of <4 mm, 49% had IMH of <1 mm, and 38% had no pedicles. The average thickness in women was 4.21±0.93 mm, which was significantly thinner than that in men (4.73±0.81 mm, p=0.004). Right and left pedicles were not significantly different.

Conclusions

Our data indicate that approximately one-third of the Indian population may not be suitable candidates for C1 pedicle screw placement. Caution should be exercised while placing type 1B and type 2 pedicles based on our proposed classification system.
A Preliminary Study of the Objective Measurement of Compliance Rates for Semirigid Lumbar-Support Use in Patients with Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain: How Important Is the Compliance Rate?
Authors: Hekmatfard Maryam , Sanjari Mohammad Ali , Maroufi Nader , Saeedi Hassan , Ebrahimi Esmail , Behtash Hamid
Published: October 2017

Study Design

Clinical pilot study.

Purpose

To objectively evaluate the compliance rate of lumbar-support use in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain, as well as to assess low back pain intensity, disability, and fear-avoidance beliefs.

Overview of Literature

Wearing time is an important factor in the assessment of the efficacy of lumbar-support use in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain. Previous studies have measured lumbar-support wearing time based on subjective assessment, and these evaluations are not easily verifiable and are usually overestimated by subjects.

Methods

Twelve subjects with chronic nonspecific low back pain who had been wearing semirigid lumbar supports for 6 weeks were evaluated. Compliance was objectively monitored using temperature sensors integrated into the semirigid lumbar supports. Subjects wore their lumbar supports for 8 hour/day on workdays and 3 hour/day on holidays during the first 3 weeks. During the next 3 weeks, subjects were gradually weaned off the lumbar supports. Pain intensity was measured using a numerical rating scale. The Oswestry disability index was used to assess the subjects' disability. Fear-avoidance behavior was evaluated using a fear-avoidance beliefs questionnaire.

Results

The mean compliance rate of the subjects was 78.16%±13.9%. Pain intensity was significantly lower in patients with a higher compliance rate (p=0.001). Disability index and fear-avoidance beliefs (functional outcomes) significantly improved during the second 3-weeks period of the treatment (p<0.001, p=0.02, respectively).

Conclusions

The compliance rate of patients wearing lumbar supports is a determining factor in chronic low back pain management. Wearing semirigid lumbar supports, as advised, was associated with decreased pain intensity, improved disability index scores, and improved fear-avoidance beliefs in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain.
A Second-Order Cell-Centered Lagrangian Method for Two-Dimensional Elastic-Plastic Flows
Authors: Cheng Jun-Bo , Jia Yueling , Jiang Song , Toro Eleuterio F. , Yu Ming
Published: October 2017

For 2D elastic-plastic flows with the hypo-elastic constitutive model and von Mises’ yielding condition, the non-conservative character of the hypo-elastic constitutive model and the von Mises’ yielding condition make the construction of the solution to the Riemann problem a challenging task. In this paper, we first analyze the wave structure of the Riemann problem and develop accordingly aFour-Rarefaction wave approximateRiemannSolver withElastic waves (FRRSE). In the construction of FRRSE one needs to use an iterative method. A direct iteration procedure for four variables is complex and computationally expensive. In order to simplify the solution procedure we develop an iteration based on two nested iterations upon two variables, and our iteration method is simple in implementation and efficient. Based on FRRSE as a building block, we propose a 2nd-order cell-centered Lagrangian numerical scheme. Numerical results with smooth solutions show that the scheme is of second-order accuracy. Moreover, a number of numerical experiments with shock and rarefaction waves demonstrate the scheme is essentially non-oscillatory and appears to be convergent. For shock waves the present scheme has comparable accuracy to that of the scheme developed by Maire et al., while it is more accurate in resolving rarefaction waves.
Mesh Density Functions Based on Local Bandwidth Applied to Moving Mesh Methods
Authors: Wise Elliott S. , Cox Ben T. , Treeby Bradley E.
Published: October 2017

Moving mesh methods provide an efficient way of solving partial differential equations for which large, localised variations in the solution necessitate locally dense spatial meshes. In one-dimension, meshes are typically specified using the arclength mesh density function. This choice is well-justified for piecewise polynomial interpolants, but it is only justified for spectral methods when model solutions include localised steep gradients. In this paper, one-dimensional mesh density functions are presented which are based on a spatially localised measure of the bandwidth of the approximated model solution. In considering bandwidth, these mesh density functions are well-justified for spectral methods, but are not strictly tied to the error properties of any particular spatial interpolant, and are hence widely applicable. The bandwidth mesh density functions are illustrated in two ways. First, by applying them to Chebyshev polynomial approximation of two test functions, and second, through use in periodic spectral and finite-difference moving mesh methods applied to a number of model problems in acoustics. These problems include a heterogeneous advection equation, the viscous Burgers’ equation, and the Korteweg-de Vries equation. Simulation results demonstrate solution convergence rates that are up to an order of magnitude faster using the bandwidth mesh density functions than uniform meshes, and around three times faster than those using the arclength mesh density function.
Analysis of Geometrically Consistent Schemes with Finite Range Interaction
Authors: Li Hongliang , Ming Pingbing
Published: October 2017

We analyze the geometrically consistent schemes proposed by E. Lu and Yang [6] for one-dimensional problem with finite range interaction. The existence of the reconstruction coefficients is proved, and optimal error estimate is derived under sharp stability condition. Numerical experiments are performed to confirm the theoretical results.
Любая случайная величина с конечными моментами есть сумма двух величин с определенной проблемой моментов
Authors: Lykov Konstantin Vladimirovich
Published: October 2017

Известно, что из совпадения всех моментов у двух случайных величин не следует совпадение их распределений. Если же для некоторой случайной величины не существует иначе распределенной случайной величины с такими же моментами, то говорят, что для исходной случайной величины проблема моментов определенная, а также что проблема моментов имеет единственное решение. В работе доказано, что любая случайная величина, у которой все моменты конечны, может быть представлена в виде суммы двух дизъюнктных случайных величин, каждая из которых имеет определенную проблему моментов.
Анализ асимптотического поведения решения линейного стохастического дифференциального уравнения с субэкспоненциально устойчивой матрицей и его приложение к задаче управления
Authors: Palamarchuk Ekaterina S
Published: October 2017

В работе проводится анализ асимптотического поведения решения линейного стохастического дифференциального уравнения с субэкспоненциально устойчивой матрицей. Доказывается утверждение в форме усиленного закона больших чисел для пары процессов, состоящей из квадрата нормы решения, и детерминированной функции, определяемой как интеграл от квадрата нормы матрицы диффузии. Полученный результат применяется при решении задачи линейно-квадратического регулятора на бесконечном интервале времени для одного класса невыявляемых систем.
О классической пропускной способности канала со стационарным квантовым гауссовским шумом
Authors: Holevo Alexander Semenovich
Published: October 2017

Рассмотрены математические модели квантового канала связи с аддитивным стационарным гауссовским шумом с непрерывным временем. Предложено доказательство теоремы кодирования в случае квантовых гауссовских широкополосных калибровочно-ковариантных каналов, которая дает выражение для классической пропускной способности канала в спектральных терминах.
Extensions of regularity for a Lévy process
Authors: Maller Ross A
Published: October 2017

Получены необходимые и достаточные условия конечности определенных общих моментных функций случайных величин $T_0^-$ - первого момента, когда процесс Леви $(X_t)_{t\ge 0}$ становится отрицательным, и его положения $X_{T_0^-}$ в это время. Oни обобщают классические результаты Рогозина и Бертуэна относительно регулярности $X$, а также результаты Блюменталя и Гетура об индексе регулярности.
Asymptotic near-minimaxity of the randomized Shiryaev-Roberts-Pollak change-point detection procedure in continuous time
Authors: Polunchenko Aleksey S
Published: October 2017

Для задачи скорейшего обнаружения разладки в классической постановке в непрерывном времени показывается, что рандомизированная процедура Ширяева-Робертса-Поллака является асимптотически почти минимаксно-оптимальной (в смысле Поллака [14]) в классе рандомизированных процедур с пренебрежимо малым уровнем риска ложной тревоги. Доказательство осуществляется непосредственно, c использованием аналитически выведенных явных выражений для всех необходимых операционных характеристик. Также приводится оценка скорости сходимости к (неизвестному) оптимуму. Установленное свойство почти оптимальности улучшает на один порядок аналогичный результат, полученный ранее Е. В. Бурнаевым, Е. А. Файнбергом и А. Н. Ширяевым [4] для этой же самой задачи.
Quantifying minimal noncollinearity among random points
Authors: Pinelis Iosif F
Published: October 2017

Пусть $\varphi_{n,K}$ обозначает наибольший угол во всех треугольниках с вершинами среди $n$ точек, выбранных наудачу в компактном выпуклом множестве $K$ с непустой внутренностью в пространстве $\mathbf{R}^d$, где $d\ge2$. Показано, что распределение случайной величины $\lambda_d(K)n^3(\pi-\varphi_{n,K})^{d-1}/3!$, где $\lambda_d(K)$ - некоторое положительное вещественное число, зависящее только от размерности $d$ и формы выпуклого множества $K$, сходится к стандартному показательному распределению при $n\to\infty$. Используя штейнеровскую симметризацию, также показано, что коэффициент $\lambda_d (K)$, который называется в статье продолговатостью множества $K$, достигает своего минимума тогда и только тогда, когда $K$ является шаром $B^{(d)}$ в $\mathbf {R}^d$. Наконец, определяется асимптотика $\lambda_d(B^{(d)})$ для больших $d$.
Многотипные ветвящиеся процессы в случайной среде: вероятность невырождения в критическом случае
Authors: Vatutin Vladimir Alekseevich , Dyakonova Elena Evgen'evna
Published: October 2017

Изучается асимптотика вероятности невырождения многотипного критического ветвящегося процесса, эволюционирующего в случайной среде, порожденной последовательностью независимых одинаково распределенных случайных величин. При достаточно общих предположениях, накладываемых на характеристики производящих функций численности потомства частиц, показано, что для процесса, стартовавшего в нулевой момент времени с одной частицы типа $i$, вероятность невырождения к далекому моменту времени $n$ пропорциональна $\beta_in^{-1/2}$, где $\beta_i$ - положительная константа. Это утверждение является существенным обобщением ряда ранее известных результатов.
Case Report: Failure of Therapeutic Coma in Rabies Encephalitis
Authors: Manesh Abi , Mani Reeta Subramaniam , Pichamuthu Kishore , Jagannati Manjeera , Mathew Vivek , Karthik Rajiv , Abraham Ooriapadickal Cherian , Chacko Geeta , Varghese George M.
Published: October 2017

Rabies encephalitis is a fulminant, almost universally fatal infection involving the central nervous system. A unique treatment protocol, including anti-exicitotoxic therapy and induced coma was credited with the survival of a vaccinated teenager with bat rabies encephalitis in 2005. However, multiple efforts to replicate this expensive and intense protocol have not been successful. In this article, we report the failure of the protocol in Indian patients with canine-acquired rabies and elucidate the potential explanations for the failure of the protocol in our patients.
Prognostic and Predictive Factors of Ebola Virus Disease Outcome in Elderly People during the 2014 Outbreak in Guinea
Authors: Cherif Mahamoud Sama , Dumre Shyam Prakash , Kassé Diénaba , Cherif Fatoumata , Camara Facely , Koné Alpha , Diakité Mandiou , Cissé Mohamed , Diallo Mamadou Pathé , Le Gall Edouard , Karbwang Juntra , Hirayama Kenji
Published: October 2017

Elderly people occupy a prominent position in African societies; however, their potential linkage to high case fatality rate (CFR) in Ebola virus disease (EVD) was often overlooked. We describe the predictive factors for EVD lethality in the elderly. A total of 2,004 adults and 309 elderly patients with confirmed EVD were included in the analysis. The median age (interquartile range) was 35 years (23–44) in adults and 65 years (60–70) in the elderly. The proportion of funeral participation was significantly higher in the elderly group than in the adult group. Duration (in days) between the onset of symptoms and admission was significantly longer in elderly. CFR in the elderly people was also significantly higher (80.6%) than in the adult group (66.2%). Funeral participation constituted a risk factor for the transmission of EVD in elderly people.
Advancing Global Health through Development and Clinical Trials Partnerships: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Assessment of Safety, Tolerability, and Immunogenicity of PfSPZ Vaccine for Malaria in Healthy Equatoguinean Men
Authors: Olotu Ally , Urbano Vicente , Hamad Ali , Eka Martin , Chemba Mwajuma , Nyakarungu Elizabeth , Raso Jose , Eburi Esther , Mandumbi Dolores O. , Hergott Dianna , Maas Carl D. , Ayekaba Mitoha O. , Milang Diosdado N. , Rivas Matilde R. , Schindler Tobias , Embon Oscar M. , Ruben Adam J. , Saverino Elizabeth , Abebe Yonas , KC Natasha , James Eric R. , Murshedkar Tooba , Manoj Anita , Chakravarty Sumana , Li Minglin , Adams Matthew , Schwabe Christopher , Segura J. Luis , Daubenberger Claudia , Tanner Marcel , Richie Thomas L. , Billingsley Peter F. , Lee Sim B. Kim , Abdulla Salim , Hoffman Stephen L.
Published: October 2017

Equatorial Guinea (EG) has implemented a successful malaria control program on Bioko Island. A highly effective vaccine would be an ideal complement to this effort and could lead to halting transmission and eliminating malaria. Sanaria® PfSPZ Vaccine (Plasmodium falciparum sporozoite Vaccine) is being developed for this purpose. To begin the process of establishing the efficacy of and implementing a PfSPZ Vaccine mass vaccination program in EG, we decided to conduct a series of clinical trials of PfSPZ Vaccine on Bioko Island. Because no clinical trial had ever been conducted in EG, we first successfully established the ethical, regulatory, quality, and clinical foundation for conducting trials. We now report the safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity results of the first clinical trial in the history of the country. Thirty adult males were randomized in the ratio 2:1 to receive three doses of 2.7 × 105 PfSPZ of PfSPZ Vaccine (N = 20) or normal saline placebo (N = 10) by direct venous inoculation at 8-week intervals. The vaccine was safe and well tolerated. Seventy percent, 65%, and 45% of vaccinees developed antibodies to Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) circumsporozoite protein (PfCSP) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, PfSPZ by automated immunofluorescence assay, and PfSPZ by inhibition of sporozoite invasion assay, respectively. Antibody responses were significantly lower than responses in U.S. adults who received the same dosage regimen, but not significantly different than responses in young adult Malians. Based on these results, a clinical trial enrolling 135 subjects aged 6 months to 65 years has been initiated in EG; it includes PfSPZ Vaccine and first assessment in Africa of PfSPZ-CVac. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02418962.
Medium-term Anatomical Results of Laser Peripheral Iridoplasty: An Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography Study
Authors: Hooshmand Joobin , Leong James CY , O'Connor Jeremy , Ang Ghee S , Wells Anthony P
Published: October 2017

Aim

To evaluate by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) the medium-term (mean duration 3.2 years) anatomical changes in the anterior chamber angle (ACA) after laser peripheral iridoplasty.

Materials and methods

This is a longitudinal, retrospective case series of 31 eyes of 31 patients with primary angle-closure suspicion, primary angle closure (PAC), or primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) who underwent laser peripheral iridoplasty. All patients had persistent iridotrabecular contact (ITC) despite the presence of a patent peripheral iridotomy (PI). An AS-OCT was performed in dark conditions before and after laser iridoplasty. Quadrants of ITC, intraocular pressure (IOP), and the AS-OCT parameters of the temporal and nasal ACAs were measured and analyzed.

Results

Prior to iridoplasty, the average number of quadrants of ITC was 3.3. At the first postiridoplasty visit (mean duration 6.8 weeks), this reduced to 1.7 quadrants but increased to 1.9 by the final follow-up visit (mean duration 3.2 years). Twenty-five patients (80.1%) had less ITC at the first postlaser visit increasing to 27 (87.1%) patients by the final visit. Two (6.5%) required a second iridoplasty, while 3 (9.7%) required cataract surgery. All parameters of angle width showed a statistically significant increase in magnitude. All patients maintained IOP ≤ 21 mm Hg throughout the follow-up period.

Conclusion

Iridoplasty is a useful adjunct in widening the ACA, particularly in those with persistent angle closure after iridotomy but with no cataract. While not successful in all patients, it can act as a temporizing measure to widen the drainage angle until such time that cataract surgery can be performed.

Clinical significance

Laser peripheral iridoplasty can be used as an adjunct in angle-closure glaucoma patients with no cataract.

How to cite this article

Hooshmand J, Leong JCY, O'Connor J, Ang GS, Wells AP. Medium-term Anatomical Results of Laser Peripheral Iridoplasty: An Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography Study. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2017;11(3):113-119.
Reference After 5 PM: A Reference Librarian’s Experience Working Atypical Hours at a Large Research Library
Authors: Fargo Hailley
Published: October 2017

Reference services continue to change and evolve in the academic library. Students need reference support outside the normal 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. business hours in an academic library. The author works these later shifts and has found success in helping students. This success is due to the author’s collaboration and relationship building with not only students but also library employees and other departments to support a robust and active reference service on Sundays and after 5:00 p.m. This paper explores the author’s first semester providing reference services during the fall 2016 semester.
Podcasting PA Libraries: The PALS Podcasting Project
Authors: Edmondson Mina , Fulton Brian , Garm Mary , Hallam-Miller Jill , Kulick Natalie , Rowse Melissa
Published: October 2017

In 2016, a Pennsylvania Library Association Leadership Academy group, with the guidance of their mentors, was assigned to develop a podcast program featuring outstanding Pennsylvania librarians. The group of geographically dispersed librarians, representing different types of libraries, worked together to overcome their limited knowledge of podcasting. In the first few months after receiving the assignment, the team developed a method for identifying interviewees, employed freely available technology to record, edit, and host the podcast, and promoted the final podcast product, PaLAunchPod on February 1, 2017. With 6 full episodes (including a two-part episode) completed, the original podcast team entrusted its work to a new group of Leadership Academy program librarians.
Right of Knowing and Using Mother Tongue: A Mixed Method Study
Authors: Ozfidan Burhan
Published: October 2017

Language is a crucial factor for the academic achievement of minority people. Speaking the mother tongue in school increases self-confidence and thinking skills, and conveys freedom of speech. Mother tongue is an inseparable element of his or her culture and that everyone has the right to learn his or her mother tongue. The main objective of this current study is to illustrate the need for a language curriculum and to investigate what parameters will influence the development of a mother tongue. This study used an explanatory sequential mixed method, conducted in two phases: a quantitative phase followed by a qualitative phase. For quantitative data collection, 140 participants responded the survey instrument. For qualitative data collection, 12 participants were interviewed. The results indicated that everyone has the right to be taught in their mother tongue. Mother tongue education is necessary for a student to have an equal access to education and gain benefits from education as do others. Mother tongue education has a crucial role in ensuring school attendance, raising the quality of education, and integrating children into society. Therefore, the findings reflected that a bilingual education program is necessary to be educated in mother tongue.
Scale for Measuring Perceived Service Quality of Public Service in Sri Lanka: With Special Reference to Divisional Secretariats in Gampaha District
Authors: Wijesekera A.T. , S. Fernando R. Lalitha
Published: October 2017

The most accepted SERVQUAL is heavily applied to measure the service quality of Business to Customer (B2C) profit oriented organizations than for non-profit organizations. As such, this paper describes the development of a 19-item instrument for assessing customer perceptions of service quality in public service with special reference to Divisional Secretariats in Sri Lanka. To do so, both qualitative and quantitative methods were utilized in three fundamental stages recommended by Churchill (1979) and Parasuraman et.al, (1988). In following their footsteps, initially a qualitative research was undertaken in five Divisional Secretariats within Gampaha District through interviews with 50 customers from different backgrounds and affiliations which produced 42-items with eight factors emerged. These 42-items were included in a questionnaire and quantitative study was undertaken with 100 respondents who were current or recent customers of Divisional Secretariats within Gampatha District. To ensure the reliability and validity of the measures of service quality construct, mainly reliability test, split-half reliability and factor analysis, were used. Finally, 42-items were deduced in to 19-items and a new scale was developed to measure the service quality of Divisional Secretariats with 5 dimensions Responsiveness, Communication, Tangible, Empathy and Assurance. Among these, responsiveness dimensions could be the least important and the empathy dimension was of most concern to customers. As a closing note, limitations and further studies were discussed.
Exploring Opportunities for Enhancing Innovation in Agriculture: The Case of Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) Production in Ghana
Authors: Aneani Francis , Adu-Acheampong R. , Sakyi-Dawson O.
Published: October 2017

An exploratory study was conducted to identify opportunities to enhance innovation in the cocoa sector in Ghana. The specific objectives were to identify the key stakeholders in the cocoa industry, and elicit farmers and other stakeholders’ perceptions on cocoa production and marketing practices, as well as the inherent constraints and opportunities. The study involved literature review of published information and the use of Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tools such as focus group discussion, problem tree analysis, seasonal calendar, and ranking techniques to elicit information from the respondents and purchasing clerks in the Eastern and Western Regions of Ghana. The problem tree analysis indicated that low cocoa incomes were due to low cocoa yields which were in turn caused by high incidence of pest and diseases such as capsids/black pod/cocoa swollen shoot virus disease (CSSVD), declining soil fertility and use of unapproved planting materials. The seasonal calendar analysis indicated that most cocoa farmers were financially constrained, experience high labour availability and cost from May to July during which farm activities are high. Based on the study, researchers recommend that the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) intensifies its efforts in implementing the opportunities such as crop/livelihood diversification, provision of crop insurance against risk, etc. identified to enhance farmers’ welfare and the development of the entire cocoa industry. Addressing these constraints requires collaboration among the various stakeholders in the sector, including the government, research and extension as well as smallholder farmers.
Uczenie się demokracji od dzieciństwa – kaprys czy potrzeba współczesności?
Authors: Olczak Agnieszka
Published: October 2017

In the modern, changing, uncertain world, life is becoming more and more complex and difficult. Only those who are well prepared for it will be able to function in this world. Thus, the article raises the question of whether teaching children democracy, liberation behaviour, participation, but also responsibility, is a fantasy, a fiction, or a whim, which teachers and researchers who seek, and parents who reject authoritarianism are often accused of, or whether it is a necessity of the modern times and an expression of an awareness that it is essential wisely to prepare the younger generation for life in contemporary society. In this paper the author also outlines the role of educational institutions that can and should be aware of this task and search for opportunities for the creation of conditions for the development of children’s democratic competences.
Kształtowanie przez dzieci form przestrzennych – doniesienie z badań
Authors: Piwowarska Ewa
Published: October 2017

The theoretical considerations raised in this article relate to the educational values of perceiving sculptures by children, and shaping spatial forms of plasticine by them. After describing the research procedure, the results were also presented of empirical studies conducted by the author (constituting only a portion) based on an analysis of sculptural works made by children. They included: 1. Determining the age when children master the skill of forming spatial forms on a given topic, 2. Determining the formal characteristics including the skill of modeling by children in successive age groups, 3. Separation of stages (table 1) of development of the forms made by 3- to 9-year-olds. The whole is summed up by conclusions.
Rousseau i nowożytne spotkanie z Innym
Authors: Zielka Sylwester
Published: October 2017

The paper situates the thought of Jean Jacques Rousseau in the context of the 17th and 18th century social and political debate on the possibility of creating a better society, which intensified with the crisis of feudal system and early modern discovery of the Other. The paper also discusses consequences of this debate for shaping anthropology as a field of knowledge and understanding culture of the time. The idea of a “noble savage” according to which non-Europeans, i.e., the “primitive” people living in the state of nature as free and equal, without concerns and inconveniences of civilization, is contrasted with an opposite project of a “degenerate savage” of Thomas Hobbes, who used it as a justification for absolute monarchy in European countries and of European societies over non-Western ones.
Software environment for rapid prototyping of graph and network algorithms
Authors: Banach Kamil , Kasprzyk Rafał
Published: October 2017

The article presents an innovative software environment for rapid prototyping of graph and network algorithms. The environment consists of two main components: an editor of graphs & networks and an editor of algorithms’ code. The presented environment enables interactive visualization of algorithms implemented therein, which in turn allows quick verification of algorithms results as well as its correctness. The aim of the environment construction was to provide a solution for rapid prototyping of novel algorithms. The developed tool can also be successfully used for educational purposes.
Using complex networks in social impact models
Authors: Dzida Damian
Published: October 2017

This paper describes models of opinion dynamics. It presents various ways of modelling opinion spreading in the population. The author proposes to apply complex networks to a model, which is based on the theory of social impact. The agent based modelling is applied to construct the model and perform simulations. Performed simulations allowed to investigate how the use of complex networks and its properties have an influence on the final distribution of opinions in the population. The results of simulations have been shown and interpreted.
Uma abordagem baseada no ambiente Robocode para ensino de programação no Ensino Médio
Authors: Pantaleão Eliana , Amaral Laurence Rodrigues , Braga e Silva Gláucia
Published: October 2017

This paper describes a methodology for teaching algorithms and programming languages teaching in high school with the aid of the Robocode plattform. The experience was developed since 2012 with the help of undergraduate students that had already concluded courses on computer programming and acted as tutors and co-advisors of the younger students. Robocode environment was used as a support tool, using a playful learning strategy, providing an early contact of the high-school students with Java programming language. The obtained results show the interest of high school students to learn computer programming. Furthermore, the Robocode plataform proved to be a playful tool to support the teaching of Java. Finally, with the realization of the Robocode Tournaments, it was possible to observe how the competitiveness influenced the motivation of students to learn and overcome challenges.
Genome size and identification of abundant repetitive sequences in Vallisneria spinulosa
Authors: Feng RuiJuan , Wang Xin , Tao Min , Du Guanchao , Wang Qishuo
Published: October 2017

Vallisneria spinulosa is a freshwater aquatic plant of ecological and economic importance. However, there is limited cytogenetic and genomics information on Vallisneria. In this study, we measured the nuclear DNA content of Vallisneria spinulosa by flow cytometry, performed a de novo assembly, and annotated repetitive sequences by using a combination of next-generation sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics tools. The genome size of Vallisneria spinulosa is approximately 3,595 Mbp, in which nearly 60% of the genome consists of repetitive sequences. The majority of the repetitive sequences are LTR-retrotransposons comprising 43% of the genome. Although the amount of sequencing data used in this study was not sufficient for a whole-genome assembly, it could generate an overview of representative elements in the genome. These results will lay a new foundation for further studies on various species that belong to the Vallisneria genus.
Reproductive biology of the banded guitarfish, Zapterix exasperata (Pisces: Rhinobatidae), in Bahía Almejas, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Authors: Villavicencio-Garayzar CJ
Published: October 2017

A description of the reproductive biology of the banded guitarfish, Zapterix exasperata (Jordan and Gilbert) is presented. The study was conducted in a fishing camp located in Bahía Almejas on the west coast of Baja California, from August 1990 to June 1994. The banded guitarfish is present in the bay from January to August. Oocyte growth ends in February-March, and copulation and ovulation occur at the end of March and beginning of April. Embryonic development begins in April and ends in July-August, after a gestation period of three to four months. The size of the neonates is between 15 and 18 cm total length. Females dominated in the adult sex ratio, however, it was 1: 1 in the embryos. Fecundity varied from four to 11 embryos per female.
Determination of the quality of food elaborated from unheated and heated fish silages for abalone juveniles of Haliotis fulgens
Authors: López LM , Viana MT
Published: October 2017

The quality of two artificial diets for the abalone Haliotis fulgens were evaluated through protein leaching, stability analysis, consumption and feed conversion efficiency. The two diets were elaborated from unheated and heated fish silage (greater and lesser grade of hydrolysis, respectively). The results suggested that unheated silage was more stable, but it showed more protein leaching due to its higher water soluble protein. No significant differences were found (P > 0.05) between both treatments. Maximum efficiencies of 1: 1.6 and 1: 1.1 were obtained for both the unheated and heated silage, respectively.
Satellite-derived estimates of phytoplankton biomass off Southern Baja California
Authors: Zuria-Jordan IL , Álvarez-Borrego S , Santamaría-del-Angel E , Müller-Karger FE
Published: October 2017

All available estimates of photosynthetic pigment concentration derived from data generated during I978-1986 by the sensor Coastal Zone Color Scanner (CZCS) were used to interpret the spatial and temporal variations of phytoplankton biomass in a transept from Punta San Hipólito (27ºN, 114º30’W) to Cabo Corrientes (20º30’N. 105º30’W) off southern Baja California, Mexico. Highest pigment concentrations were present in areas near the coast. We suggest that they were due to upwelling and to interaction between the marine currents and local physiography. A recurrent front was observed off Cabo San Lucas. with the strongest pigment concentration gradients at the end of spring and beginning of summer, during non-El Niño years. There was a clear seasonal variation near the coast. immediately west of Baja California. high pigment values (3 to 8 mg m–3) were observed from February through August. Off Cabo Corrientes, high values occurred from January through May (5 to 8 mg m–3). These areas experience strong seasonal upwelling. El Niño had a clear effect on pigment concentration, hut it was not the only cause of interannual variation. There were relatively low pigment concentrations throughout the whole transept starting in September 1982, with values often lower than 20% of those during the previous period. These low concentrations were maintained through August 1984 at the entrance to the gulf, and through December 1985 off the west coast of Baja California.
Effect of density on growth and secondary production of Euvola (Pecten) ziczac juveniles, under suspended culture conditions
Authors: Freites L , Vera B , Lodeiros C , Vélez A
Published: October 2017

The effect of density on growth and secondary production of Euvola ziczac was studied under suspended culture conditions from June 1988 to January 1989. Seven different densities were examined, using juveniles from 9.6 k 0.3 mm long and 5.17 ± 0.6 mg dry weight, which were previously cultivated under hatchery conditions. The growth rate in size and biomass was relatively fast in the group containing 200 specimens/m2 (5.2 mm and 85.94 mg), followed by the lots with 400, 600 and 800 specimens/m2 (4.0 mm and 52.89 mg). The lots with 1,600, 2,400 and 3,200 specimens/m2 showed slow growth. The maximum biological load tolerated was found to be 120 ± 10 g/m2, after which individual growth slowed down and mortality increased. The highest secondary production was obtained in the group with 2,400 specimens/m2 (5.71 mg/m2/day). Density management during the nursery stage of E. ziczac is discussed.
Color Doppler Ultrasound Assessment of Anterolateral Thigh Flap Perforators in Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Tong Xiang-Juan , Tang Zhan-Gui , Shan Zhen-Feng , Qin Ang , Guo Xin-Cheng
Published: October 2017

To overcome anatomic variations and make the anterolateral thigh flap (ALT) harvesting simpler and safer, we used color Doppler ultrasound to locate the cutaneous perforators preoperatively and evaluated the reliability for perforator vessels. Twenty-six patients with advanced head and neck cancer who underwent curative surgery between 2012 and 2013 were recorded. The characteristics of cutaneous perforators of the ALT were evaluated preoperatively by color Doppler ultrasound. Fifty-seven perforators detected by preoperative color Doppler ultrasound were found intraoperative. The 4 false-positive perforators were found to be a branch of suprafascial plexus in the subcutaneous fat. The average number of perforators per flap was 2.4 (range, 1–4). The color Doppler ultrasound, therefore, has an 88.3% true-positive rate. The false-positive rate was 6.7%, and the false-negative rate was 5.0%. The diameters detected by preoperative color Doppler ultrasound and by surgeons during the operations were significant differences. Preoperative color Doppler ultrasound assessment for perforators of the ALT can decrease the operative risk for locally advanced head and neck cancer.
Copyright Transfer Agreement
Authors: Istadi Istadi
Published: October 2017

Copyright Transfer Agreement
Rapid Alcoholysis of Jatropha Curcas Oil for Biodiesel Production Using Ultrasound Irradiation
Authors: Irwan Muh. , Saidi Hamdani , Rachman M. A. , Ramli Ramli , Marlinda Marlinda
Published: October 2017

The biodiesel synthesis through alcoholysis process of triglyceride from Jatropha curcas using different type of alcohol, such as: methanol, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol and tert-butanol, was conducted in the presence of potassium hydroxide (KOH) as catalyst under 35 kHz frequency ultrasound irradiation. The optimum conditions, such as: alcohol to jatropha oil molar ratio, concentration of catalyst, reaction temperature, and reaction time, were found  to be 7:1 of alcohol to jatropha oil molar ratio, 0.5 % of KOH, temperature of reaction at 35 0C, within the reaction times of 15 minutes. The results obtained for the different types of alcohol were 62.77 %, 57.93 %, 51.64 %, and 46.77 % for methanol, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and tert-butanol, respectively.
Study of Hopcalite (CuMnOx) Catalysts Prepared Through A Novel Route for the Oxidation of Carbon Monoxide at Low Temperature
Authors: Dey Subhashish , Dhal Ganesh Chandra , Mohan Devendra , Prasad Ram
Published: October 2017

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas, recognized as a silent killer. The gas is produced by incomplete combustion of carbonaceous fuel. Recent studies have shown that hopcalite group is one of the promising catalysts for CO oxidation at low temperature. In this study, hopcalite (CuMnOx) catalysts were prepared by KMnO4 co-precipitation method followed by washing, drying the precipitate at different temperatures (22, 50, 90, 110, and 120 oC) for 12 h in an oven and subsequent calcination at 300 oC in stagnant air, flowing air and in a reactive gas mixture of (4.5% CO in air) to do the reactive calcination (RC). The prepared catalysts were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM-EDX, XPS, and BET techniques. The activity of the catalysts was evaluated in a tubular reactor under the following conditions: 100 mg catalyst, 2.5% CO in air, total flow rate 60 mL/min and temperature varying from ambient to a higher value, at which complete oxidation of CO was achieved. The order of calcination strategies based on activity for hopcalite catalysts was observed to be as: RC > flowing air > stagnant air. In the kinetics study of CuMnOx catalyst prepared in RC conditions the frequency factor and activation energy were found to be 5.856×105 (g.mol)/(gcat.h) and 36.98 kJ/gmol, respectively.