bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutatas dicere formas: la lengua al servicio de la metamorfosis
Authors: Martín Puente Cristina
Published: December 2010

Ovidio habla a lo largo de toda su obra de cientos de transformaciones. En su narración, aparte de aludir implícitamente a las metamorfosis, crea un sistema muy complejo que combina recursos léxicos, semánticos y sintácticos para no repetirse. Esto le permite ampliar enormemente el listado de verbos que pueden expresar explícitamente que una entidad se convierte en otra. Así, si lo que más le interesa es el agente o la causa de la metamorfosis (construcción causativa), recurre a los verbos uerto, facio y muto (este último es el verbo preferido de Ovidio, quizá el primer autor que lo emplea en este sentido) en voz activa; cuando le interesa más quién sufre el cambio (construcción inacusativa), emplea los verbos uerto, facio o muto en voz pasiva o el verbo fio. Pero, si habla de un personaje que tiene la capacidad de metamorfosearse (construcción inergativa), utiliza uerto en voz pasiva o fio. En el caso de los verbos muto (en activa o pasiva), uerto (en activa o pasiva), eo (en pasiva), abeo (en pasiva), flecto (en pasiva), confeso (en activa), animo (en activa), etc., el resultado de la transformación suele expresarse con in + acusativo. Con uerto y con muto también puede codificarse en forma de ablativo sin preposición y con muto, además, con cum + ablativo. Sin embargo, los verbos facio y fio, cuando presentan la acepción de `transformar(se)´, no presentan una construcción especial. Por otra parte, Ovidio apenas utiliza los verbos conuerto y transformo, ya empleados por autores anteriores a él.
Διοhικετα Διολευθερι̣[-] IG V.1 700
Authors: Alonso Déniz Alcorac
Published: December 2010

Se admite casi de forma unánime que en la inscripción laconia IG V. 1 700, Διοhικετα y Διολευθερι̣[-] representan una evolución fonetica de Διὸζ Ἱκέτα y Διὸζ Ἐλευθερίō. En ambos sintagmas, la /s/ final ante una vocal inicial habría sufrido debilitamiento al igual que la /s/ intervocálica en posición interior de palabra. El artículo muestra que esta interpretación debe rechazarse por distintas razones. Por el contrario, ambas formas pueden explicarse como compuestos con un primer elemento Διοo.
Towards Work-Based Mobile Learning
Authors: Pimmer Christoph , Pachler Norbert , Attwell Graham
Published: December 2010

Mobile devices are increasingly being used to support learning in work contexts. In exploring the emerging field of work-based mobile learning (WBML), researchers need to give consideration to the theoretical and empirical findings from mobile and work-based learning. In this paper, the authors provide an overview of key issues and dominant debates in these fields with the aim of providing a systematic introduction for mobile learning researchers interested in exploring the use of mobile devices for learning in work-based contexts. This paper’s focus is aimed at scoping possible commonalities across mobile and work-based learning in order to establish a baseline for future conceptual work in empirical research towards WBML.
Kruppel-Like Factor 2 Is Required for Trafficking but Not Quiescence in Postactivated T Cells
Authors: Takada Kensuke , Wang Xiaodan , Hart Geoffrey T. , Odumade Oludare A. , Weinreich Michael A. , Hogquist Kristin A. , Jameson Stephen C.
Published: December 2010

The transcription factor Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) was proposed to regulate genes involved in cell cycle entry and T cell trafficking; however, the physiological role of its expression in postactivated T cells is not well defined. Previous studies suggested that the cytokines IL-2 and IL-15 differentially regulate KLF2 re-expression in postactivation T cells and that these cytokines also influence effector versus memory T cell differentiation. Using conditional and inducible KLF2-knockout model systems, we tested the specific role of KLF2 expression in activated CD8+ T cells cultured with these cytokines. KLF2 was required for effective transcription of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor-1 (S1P1) and CD62L in postactivation T cells. However, although different cytokines dramatically altered the expression of cell-cycle–related genes, endogenous KLF2 had a minimal impact. Correspondingly, KLF2-deficient T cells showed dysregulated trafficking but not altered proliferative characteristics following in vivo responses to Ag. Thus, our data help to define KLF2-dependent and -independent aspects of activatedCD8+ T cell differentiation and argue against a physiological role in cell cycle regulation.
Dendritic Cells in Distinct Oral Mucosal Tissues Engage Different Mechanisms To Prime CD8+ T Cells
Authors: Nudel Itay , Elnekave Mazal , Furmanov Karina , Arizon Moran , Clausen Björn E. , Wilensky Asaf , Hovav Avi-Hai
Published: December 2010

Although oral dendritic cells (DCs) were shown to induce cell-mediated immunity, the identity and function of the various oral DC subsets involved in this process is unclear. In this study, we examined the mechanisms used by DCs of the buccal mucosa and of the lining mucosa to elicit immunity. After plasmid DNA immunization, buccally immunized mice generated robust local and systemic CD8+ T cell responses, whereas lower responses were seen by lining immunization. A delayed Ag presentation was monitored in vivo in both groups; yet, a more efficient presentation was mediated by buccal-derived DCs. Restricting transgene expression to CD11c+ cells resulted in diminished CD8+ T cell responses in both oral tissues, suggesting that immune induction is mediated mainly by cross-presentation. We then identified, in addition to the previously characterized Langerhans cells (LCs) and interstitial dendritic cells (iDCs), a third DC subset expressing the CD103+ molecule, which represents an uncharacterized subset of oral iDCs expressing the langerin receptor (Ln+iDCs). Using Langerin-DTR mice, we demonstrated that whereas LCs and Ln+iDCs were dispensable for T cell induction in lining-immunized mice, LCs were essential for optimal CD8+ T cell priming in the buccal mucosa. Buccal LCs, however, failed to directly present Ag to CD8+ T cells, an activity that was mediated by buccal iDCs and Ln+iDCs. Taken together, our findings suggest that the mechanisms engaged by oral DCs to prime T cells vary between oral mucosal tissues, thus emphasizing the complexity of the oral immune network. Furthermore, we found a novel regulatory role for buccal LCs in potentiating CD8+ T cell responses.
Stroke in Young in India
Authors: Tripathi Manjari , Vibha Deepti
Published: December 2010

Stroke in young has special significance in developing countries. This is so because some etiologies like cardioembolic infections are more common than in developed countries, and the affection of economically productive group adds further to the overall disease burden. The paper discusses the burden of stroke in young and its implications in a developing country like India along with an approach to identifying different causes that are known to occur in this age group.
Pharmacotherapy Options for Multiple Sclerosis: Focus on Natalizumab
Authors: Stangel Martin , Kieseier Bernd C.
Published: December 2010

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is considered an autoimmune disease causing demyelination in the central nervous system (CNS) that subsequently leads to axonal damage and neurological impairment. Currently available first line therapies are based on immunomodulation with beta-interferons or glatirameracetate. However, these treatments are only partially effective, thus, more powerful therapies represent an unmet need in MS. Natalizumab is a monoclonal antibody targeting the α4β1 integrin that has been shown to be crucial in the process of transmigration of immunocompetent cells across the blood-brain-barrier (BBB) into the CNS. Two phase III trials have demonstrated clinical and paraclinical efficacy of natalizumab and recent data suggest that many patients that have failed on a first-line disease modifying drug (DMD) benefit from a treatment with natalizumab. Unfortunately, since the licensing of natalizumab in 2006 there have been 75 cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) reported. This rare, but potentially fatal infection of the brain by JC-virus restricts the use of natalizumab. Currently there are attempts to define algorithms based on the identification of risk factors for the development of PML to achieve a better safety management for MS patients treated with this monoclonal antibody.
Acute Appendicitis in Neutropenic Patients with Acute Leukemia
Authors: Al-Anazi K.A. , Al-Jasser A.M. , Daff N. Abu , Al-Saghier A. , Zwan F. , Al-Douri M.A. , Shafi T. , Salem M. , Al-Zahrani H.A. , Al-Mohareb F.I.
Published: December 2010

Background

In neutropenic patients with acute leukemia, acute abdomen which is usually attributed to typhlitis may be encountered. However, the diagnosis of acute appendicitis is rarely described or confirmed.

Methods and Materials

A retrospective study of acute appendicitis in adult patients with acute leukemia was conducted at the Riyadh Armed Forces Hospital between January 1991 and December 2002 and then the study was continued at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre in Riyadh between January 2004 and December 2006.

Results

Acute appendicitis developed in three out of 408 patients with acute leukemia treated at both institutions. The incidence of acute appendicitis in adult patients with acute leukemia was 0.74%. Acute appendicitis was encountered during the neutropenic periods following the courses of cytotoxic chemotherapy given to control the leukemia. The three study patients were males and they presented with the classical clinical manifestations of acute appendicitis and they underwent successful appendicectomies. The radiological investigations were helpful in confirming the clinical diagnoses. Compared to the control group of patients, the study patients developed acute leukemia at a younger age and they also had higher rates of: infectious complications, relapse and mortality but lower rate of cytogenetic abnormalities and extramedullary disease.

Conclusions

The development of acute appendicitis in neutropenic patients with acute leukemia is an extremely rare event. The combination of the classical clinical manifestations as well as the compatible radiological features is essential diagnostically. Taking a decision to operate on these immunocompromised patients during the periods of severe pancytopenia is a real challenge to surgeons and hematologists. However, surgical intervention may be associated with long term complications such as relapse of the leukemia, infectious complications and decreased survival.
Article Commentary: ETS-FUSions Networking, Triggering and Beyond
Authors: Zhang Yue
Published: December 2010

Gene fusion is a hallmark of cancer development with the mechanisms underlying their genesis emerging. The Staege and Max paper together with another recent paper have provided a comprehensive first view on current TET-ETS translocation studies. This significance, the trigering of gene fusion and beyond will be discussed in this article.
A High-Through Technique to Measure DNA Methylation
Authors: Zhang Zhiming , Gao Jian , Qin Cheng , Liu Li , Lin Haijian , Shen Yaou , Gao Shibin , Zhao Maojun , Ding Haiping , Pan Guangtang
Published: December 2010

MethyLight is a sodium-bisulfite-dependent, quantitative, fluorescence-based, real-time PCR strategy that is used to detect and quantify DNA methylation in genomic DNA. High-throughput MethyLight allows the rapid and sensitive detection of very low frequencies of hypermethylated alleles in populations of alternated individuals. The high sensitivity and specificity of MethyLight can be applied not only to make it uniquely suited disease clinical but also quantitatively assessed of these low-frequency methylation events. Owing to its full of advantages of simple procedure, high efficiency and high sensitivity, MethyLight provides a powerful approach for clinical examination, Gene expression analysis, SNP analysis and allele analysis. Coupled with other techniques, MethyLight can be used immediately in identifying allelic alterations in genes exhibiting expressions correlating with phenotypes, Locating an allelic series of induced point mutations in genes of interest. The development of this technique should considerably enhance our ability to rapidly and accurately generate epigenetic profiles of samples.
Inference of Cancer-specific Gene Regulatory Networks Using Soft Computing Rules
Authors: Wang Xiaosheng , Gotoh Osamu
Published: December 2010

Perturbations of gene regulatory networks are essentially responsible for oncogenesis. Therefore, inferring the gene regulatory networks is a key step to overcoming cancer. In this work, we propose a method for inferring directed gene regulatory networks based on soft computing rules, which can identify important cause-effect regulatory relations of gene expression. First, we identify important genes associated with a specific cancer (colon cancer) using a supervised learning approach. Next, we reconstruct the gene regulatory networks by inferring the regulatory relations among the identified genes, and their regulated relations by other genes within the genome. We obtain two meaningful findings. One is that upregulated genes are regulated by more genes than downregulated ones, while downregulated genes regulate more genes than upregulated ones. The other one is that tumor suppressors suppress tumor activators and activate other tumor suppressors strongly, while tumor activators activate other tumor activators and suppress tumor suppressors weakly, indicating the robustness of biological systems. These findings provide valuable insights into the pathogenesis of cancer.
Do DNA Microarrays Tell the Story of Gene Expression?
Authors: Rosenfeld Simon
Published: December 2010

Poor reproducibility of microarray measurements is a major obstacle to their application as an instrument for clinical diagnostics. In this paper, several aspects of poor reproducibility are analyzed. All of them belong to the category of interpretive weaknesses of DNA microarray technology. First, the attention is drawn to the fact that absence of the information regarding post-transcriptional mRNA stability makes it impossible to evaluate the level of gene activity from the relative mRNA abundances, the quantities available from microarray measurements. Second, irreducible intracellular variability with persistent patterns of stochasticity and burstiness put natural limits to reproducibility. Third, strong interactions within intracellular biomolecular networks make it highly problematic to build a bridge between transcription rates of individual genes and structural fidelity of their genetic codes. For these reasons, the microarray measurements of relative mRNA abundances are more appropriate in laboratory settings as a tool for scientific research, hypotheses generating and producing the leads for subsequent validation through more sophisticated technologies. As to clinical settings, where firm conclusive diagnoses, not the leads for further experimentation, are required, microarrays still have a long way to go until they become a reliable instrument in patient-related decision making.
GA-based Design Algorithms for the Robust Synthetic Genetic Oscillators with Prescribed Amplitude, Period and Phase
Authors: Chen Bor-Sen , Chen Po-Wei
Published: December 2010

In the past decade, the development of synthetic gene networks has attracted much attention from many researchers. In particular, the genetic oscillator known as the repressilator has become a paradigm for how to design a gene network with a desired dynamic behaviour. Even though the repressilator can show oscillatory properties in its protein concentrations, their amplitudes, frequencies and phases are perturbed by the kinetic parametric fluctuations (intrinsic molecular perturbations) and external disturbances (extrinsic molecular noises) of the environment. Therefore, how to design a robust genetic oscillator with desired amplitude, frequency and phase under stochastic intrinsic and extrinsic molecular noises is an important topic for synthetic biology.

In this study, based on periodic reference signals with arbitrary amplitudes, frequencies and phases, a robust synthetic gene oscillator is designed by tuning the kinetic parameters of repressilator via a genetic algorithm (GA) so that the protein concentrations can track the desired periodic reference signals under intrinsic and extrinsic molecular noises. GA is a stochastic optimization algorithm which was inspired by the mechanisms of natural selection and evolution genetics. By the proposed GA-based design algorithm, the repressilator can track the desired amplitude, frequency and phase of oscillation under intrinsic and extrinsic noises through the optimization of fitness function.

The proposed GA-based design algorithm can mimic the natural selection in evolutionary process to select adequate kinetic parameters for robust genetic oscillators. The design method can be easily extended to any synthetic gene network design with prescribed behaviours.
Fractal topology of gene promoter networks at phase transitions
Authors: Aldrich Preston R. , Horsley Robert K. , Ahmed Yousuf A. , Williamson Joseph J. , Turcic Stefan M.
Published: December 2010

Much is known regarding the structure and logic of genetic regulatory networks. Less understood is the contextual organization of promoter signals used during transcription initiation, the most pivotal stage during gene expression. Here we show that promoter networks organize spontaneously at a dimension between the 1-dimension of the DNA and 3-dimension of the cell. Network methods were used to visualize the global structure of E. coli sigma (σ) recognition footprints using published promoter sequences (RegulonDB). Footprints were rendered as networks with weighted edges representing bp-sharing between promoters (nodes). Serial thresholding revealed phase transitions at positions predicted by percolation theory, and nuclei denoting short steps through promoter space with geometrically constrained linkages. The network nuclei are fractals, a power-law organization not yet described for promoters. Genome-wide promoter abundance also scaled as a power-law. We propose a general model for the development of a fractal nucleus in a transcriptional grammar.
Hematologic Abnormalities in Treatment-naïve HIV Patients
Authors: Akinbami Akinsegun , Oshinaike Olajumoke , Adeyemo Titilope , Adediran Adewunmi , Dosunmu Owolabi , Dada Mobolaji , Durojaiye Idris , Adebola Alaba , Vincent Oshunkalu
Published: December 2010

Objectives

Hematologic abnormalities, indicated by a deranged full blood count, are common manifestations and important prognostic tools for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and AIDS. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of cytopenia and its relationship to the degree of immunosupression in HIV treatment-naïve patients.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study of treatment-naïve HIV-infected clients who enrolled at the HIV clinic of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) between December 2009 and June 2010. Participants had samples taken for full blood count and CD4 counts, which are free routine pre-requisite and pre-treatment evaluations done for all registered HIV patients at LASUTH. They were asked to fill the structured questionnaires to obtain demographic data, with assistance if necessary.

Results

A total of 205 cases were reviewed: 24.2% had anemia (PCV < 30%), 26.8% had leucopenia (white blood cell <4,000/L) and 16.1% had thrombocytopenia (platelet count <150,000/L) at enrollment. The degree of cytopenia was directly related to the degree of immunosupression.

Conclusion

About one-fifth of HIV treatment-naïve patients were cytopenic at enrollment and the degree of cytopenia was directly related to the degree of immunosupression. It is necessary to investigate various causes of cytopenia in these patients so as to administer a specific intervention.
ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER IDEAS ABOUT THE AGRI-FOOD SYSTEM AND THEIR EVALUATION OF AGRI-SYSTEM STAKEHOLDERS’ SUGGESTIONS FOR EDUCATION
Authors: Trexler Cary J. , Johnson Thomas , Heinze Kirk
Published: December 2010

The primary purpose of this study was to identify the perceptions of beginning farmers in Iowa towards the content and delivery of beginning farmer education. A secondary purpose was to determine the usefulness of selected educational providers and media. Questionnaires were mailed to 286 beginning Iowa farmers in 1997. Responses were received from 48% of the sample. Beginning farmers showed preferences towards experiential learning, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. They relied heavily on parents, siblings, and relatives, Extension, and consultants for educational information. They felt strongly that lifelong learning and continuing education were important in the development of their farming careers. Also, they preferred on-site educational instruction, single meetings on a specific topic, and consulting public institutions for unbiased information. At the same time, the beginning farmers indicated that radio, information services, marketing services, and newspapers are likely to be important educational media in the future. Cutting-edge educational technologies were not as highly rated as more conventional instructional technologies.
LEARNING STRATEGIES FOR DISTANCE EDUCATION STUDENTS
Authors: Filcher Carol , Miller Greg
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this article was to identify a potentially useful theoretical framework to classify learning strategies and to determine specific learning tactics that may be useful in a distance education environment. Although a variety of taxonomies describe and classify student learning, McKeachie, Pintrich, Lin, and Smith (1986) proposed a taxonomy that encompasses the cognitive, metacognitive, and resource management aspects of learning. In this article, this model served as the theoretical framework to further identify specific learning tactics that may be useful in a distance education environment. In terms of specific cognitive strategies, note-taking was the only tactic found to distinguish between achievement levels. Metacognitive strategies including planning, monitoring, and self-regulation distinguished between achievement levels of students. Resource management strategies such as learning schedules, quality studying, motivation, and communicating with the instructor also distinguished between achievement levels of students. Although several specific tactics have been identified aspredictors of student success, a paucity of research involving adult students in distance education environments was prevalent. Thus, research is needed to test experimentally the proposed theoretical framework and specific learning tactics in a distance education environment.
A LONGITUDINAL MEASURE OF THE PERCEPTUAL IMPACT OF A CULTURAL DIVERSITY TEACHING PRACTICUM ON THE INTERPERSONAL COMPETENCY OF STUDENT TEACHERS
Authors: Bell Lloyd C.
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the longitudinal effect of a planned in-school practicum experience addressing cultural diversity on the self perception of student teachers regarding their interpersonal competency in such situations. Subjects of the study were eighteen student teachers of agricultural education and six student teachers of family and consumer science enrolled in the Colleges of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, and Human Resources and Family Sciences respectively. Evaluation was accomplished through the administration of a multi-cultural attitudinal inventory to all subjects prior to, immediately after, and at least one year after the experience. Subscale evaluation included the areas of teaching skills, knowledge of cultural diversity, teacher-student relationships, and cultural awareness. Findings of the study indicated perceptual change of interpersonal competency occurred within subjects in all subscale areas measured. The area of greatest gain was teacher-student relationships. The area of least gain, and regression over time was cultural awareness.
THE USE OF LEARNING STYLES AND ADMISSION CRITERIA IN PREDICTING ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AND RETENTION OF COLLEGE FRESHMEN
Authors: Garton Bryan L. , Dyer James E. , King Brad O.
Published: December 2010

Research was conducted with college freshmen to assess the effectiveness of university admission variables and student learning style in predicting students ’ academic performance and retention. ACT composite score, high school class rank, high school core GPA, and learning style were analyzed. An intact group of freshmen enrolled in a college learning and development course was studied. Learners preferring a field-independent and field-neutral learning style exhibited greater academic performance than their field-dependent peers during the first year of college as evidenced by GPA. The best predictors of academic performance during the first year of college were high school core GPA and ACT score. Learning style and ACT score appeared to be the most accurate predictors of student retention.
ARE OFF-CAMPUS COURSES AS ACADEMICALLY RIGOROUS AS ON-CAMPUS COURSES?
Authors: Miller Greg , Pilcher Carol L.
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this study was to describe and compare perceptions of academic rigor in on-campus and off-campus courses held by off-campus students @ = I 73) and college of agriculture teaching faculty u = 262) at Iowa State University. Students and faculty agreed that on-campus courses are rigorous and that they require students to be active in the learning process, expend effort, and achieve high-level cognitive outcomes. The same can be said for rigor and factors underlying rigor in the off-campus context. In addition, students and faculty were consistent in indicating that off-campus students contribute less to class discussion than on-campus students. Off-campus students perceived that on- and off- campus courses are near parity in terms of academic rigor. Faculty, on the other hand, perceived on-campus courses as superior to off-campus courses. Whose perceptions are more accurate? Because of the disparity between student and faculty perceptions, agricultural educators should conduct research that more directly measures the extent to which on- and off-campus courses actually require active learning, effort, and high cognitive levels. This line of research will provide a basis for developing new teaching and learning strategies that contribute toward the realization of truly equivalent outcomes for on- and off- campus courses.
THE MOVE TO AGRISCIENCE AND ITS IMPACT ON TEACHER EDUCATION IN AGRICULTURE
Authors: Shelley-Tolbert Cynthia A. , Conroy Carol A. , Dailey Amber L.
Published: December 2010

Since the 1988 publication of Understanding Agriculture: New Directions for Education by the National Research Council, agricultural educators have experienced increased pressure to incorporate more science-based instruction. Recent research has examined where and how integration is occurring (Conroy, 2000; Johnson, 1996; Thompson, 1998). This qualitative study looks at the perceptions of agricultural educators and others regarding this shift in focus of instruction, and what implications exist for teacher education programs as a result of the shift. Results show unanimous support for more science-based instruction, but little agreement on how much, or how best, to integrate. Concerns also exist as to methodologies employed for science-based instruction in the agricultural classroom, and how those concerns can be met by changes in teacher education programs.
IDENTIFYING SOURCES OF BIAS IN AGRICULTURAL NEWS REPORTING
Authors: Whitaker B. Kathryn , Dyer James E.
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this study was to determine how selection of informational sources and media presentation of material contribute to the bias levels of articles in two types of periodicals-news and agricultural-in regards to the environment and food safety. The three agricultural periodicals with the largest circulations-Farm Journal, Progressive Farmer, and Successful Farming--and the three news periodicals with the largest circulations-Newsweek, Time, and U.S. News & World Report-were evaluated for the purpose of this study. Articles were selected for the 10-year period from 1987-1996 and evaluated using the Hayakawa-Lowry method of determining bias. It was determined that the most used sources of information by journalists were educational and governmental. Articles were often printed in sections of the publication that appeared to have no relationship to the nature of the article. The depth in reporting of environmental and food safety issues was lacking. There was little difference in the presentation of articles between news and agricultural magazines. Both used articles in various locations, used pictures that generated an emotional response from readers, presented stories of various lengths, used a range of reporters to cover stories, and sought information from various sources. News magazines also used artwork, which almost always conveys a biased message.
Using Agricultural Education As The Context To Teach Life Skills
Authors: Dailey Amber L. , Conroy Carol A. , Shelley-Tolbert Cynthia A.
Published: December 2010

Over the years agricultural education has not done an adequate job of effectively defining or describing its meaning and purpose. As with the broad agricultural industry, the view of agricultural education varies between and among groups, within and outside of the profession, and has evolved according to global, regional, and local pressures including those originating from political, societal, and technological changes (National Research Council, 1988). This qualitative study investigated the perceptions held by individuals involved in agricultural education or the broadly defined agricultural industry as to how agricultural education can be promoted as a viable alternative for the instruction of academic and workplace skills, reducing some of the image problems associated with vocational education. Results indicate that participants believe agricultural education should remain a community-based program, and should incorporate more science-based instruction, but there is much confusion as to how traditional program goals such as FFA and SAE can be met with these changes. The conclusions and recommendations focus on a set of questions developed to guide future research on these issues.
Prospective Elementary Teacher Understanding Of Pest-Related Science And Agricultural Education Benchmarks
Authors: Trexler Cary J. , Heinze Kirk L.
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this qualitative study was to determine the understandings of pest-related concepts by prospective elementary teachers. Guided by theoretical frameworks for science education and studies on agricultural literacy, a research protocol that included grounded theory and cognitive anthropology was used to surface respondents' understandings of three educational benchmarks for the concept of human management of crop growth. Data analysis included validating benchmarks and language that guided discourse, generating conceptual proposition maps, coding responses for comparison with expert propositions, and interpreting confirming or disconfirming patterns among informants. Out-of-school experiences were the strongest determinant of prospective teacher ability to engage in discourse that was compatible with experts. Informants held incomplete understanding of pest-related benchmarks as often indicated in their lack of ability to make connections between scientific, societal, and technological concepts. Informants lacked language to accurately articulate an understanding of the pest-relatedenchmarks. Most informants lacked understanding of the positive and negative impacts of pesticide use. The identification of agriculture as one of the eight basic technology areas for study by the American Association for the Advancement of Science underscores the need for cooperation between agricultural and science educators.
College Of Agriculture Faculty Perceptions Of Electronic Technologies In Teaching
Authors: Dooley Kim E. , Murphy Tim H.
Published: December 2010

The changing student population, rapid technological advances, and the economic issues facing higher education are creating an accelerated demand for learning anytime, anyplace. The ability of an organization to adapt to these changes will be influenced by at least three factors, a) the knowledge, skills, and abilities of its faculty/staff, b) the amount of importance placed on distance learning technologies to accomplish teaching and learning, and c) the availability of high quality facilities, equipment, technical support, and training. The purpose of this study was to provide baseline data for College of Agriculture faculty perceptions of electronic technologies used in teaching. Faculty agreed that electronic technologies could make a valuable contribution to the learning process, that they should be used in all classes, and that technology will change how we teach in the next five years. About one-half of the respondents reported having a course website, but most lacked experience in teaching learners at a distance, and were much more confident in their technical competence than in their methodological ability to use modern technologies. All respondents perceived training and assistance in the use of instructional technologies to be less available than equipment and facilities.
Factors Influencing An Agricultural Education Student's Perception Of The FFA Organization
Authors: Croom D. Barry , Flowers James L.
Published: December 2010

The FFA is a learning tool that both enhances and supplements instruction. While agricultural education prepares students for careers, the FFA prepares students for a broad range of community interests. This systematic program of leadership, personal growth, and career success is the essential purpose of this student organization. The purpose of this study was to determine if there is a difference between FFA members and non-members as to their perception of the overall image of the FFA, and to determine if students' perceptions of the image of the FFA are influenced by social and demographic characteristics. Data were collected using a questionnaire administered to 404 students enrolled in the Agriscience Applications course in 27 high schools in North Carolina. It can be concluded that: A student's decision to join or not join the FFA is influenced by their perception of the image of FFA in their school. Students tend to join and participate in the FFA based upon the organization's ability to meet a student's need for a sense of belonging. Based upon the responses of members, the social aspects of the organization were motivating factors in their desire to be members.
Impact Of Sustainable Agriculture On Secondary School Agricultural Education Teachers And Programs In The North Central Region
Authors: Ajaiyeoba Agbaje Kehinde Aderemi , Martin Robert A. , Williams David L.
Published: December 2010

Concerns about the negative impact conventional agriculture is having on the environment have propelled the call for farming practices that are not only economically sound but also environmentally protective and sociallyacceptable. A cadre of agricultural researchers, educators, and farmers believe that the agricultural systems advocated by sustainable agriculture have great potential for addressing these concerns. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of sustainable agriculture on secondary school agricultural education teachers and programs in the North Central Region. Likert-type scales were used to measure teacher perceptions of sustainable agriculture and the extent to which sustainable agriculture was taught in the curriculum. The findings revealed that sustainable agriculture has had a limited impact on secondary school agricultural education teachers and programs. Responding teachers were neutral in their perceptions of sustainable agriculture. Sustainable agriculture was taught to a moderate degree in programs of the respondents. There was a lack of evidence that sustainable agriculture was being taught from a systems perspective. However, agronomic topics basic to the understanding of sustainable agriculture were included in the curriculum, providing a foundation for curriculum innovation related to sustainable agriculture.
Factors Identified When Selecting A Major In Agriculture
Authors: Wildman Malissia , Torres Robert M.
Published: December 2010

Student recruitment has a vital role in successful colleges of agriculture. The study investigated factors that influence students' decision to select a major within available agricultural disciplines. The population was full-time college students majoring in an agricultural discipline. The results provide a demographic profile of students, data on their perceived sources of influence and considerations when selecting an agriculture major. One factor, prior experience in agriculture, was identified as the relatively most influential source, whereas working outdoors was identified as the strongest consideration for selecting an agriculture major.
Effectiveness Of The Indiana 4-H Tractor Program: Alumni Perceptions
Authors: Carrabba Jr. , Talbert B. Allen , Field William E. , Tormoehlen Roger
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Indiana 4-H Tractor Program by assessing the impact the program has had on alumni of the program. Past contestants of the state 4-H tractor-driving contest from the years 1982-1997 (N=233) were surveyed using a 30-item mailed questionnaire. A response rate of 72.4% was obtained for this census study. Respondents reported that the program was effective at teaching them to be safe tractor operators. They also believed that the program benefited them in other aspects of their life including general safety awareness. Respondents reported that they were involved in farming on a full or part-time basis (74%) or employed full-time in a mechanical or technology-related career (21%). The respondents self-reported involvement in a number of risky tractor operating behaviors including not wearing seat belts with ROPS-equipped tractors and allowing extra riders. Recommendations for improving the program include: (1) strengthening approaches for reducing risky behaviors, (2) developing up-to-date teaching materials, (3) conduct a future, more comprehensive study of past participants of the program, and (4) conduct a thorough evaluation of all of the program's components.
Motivational Needs Of Middle Grad Students Enrolled In Agricultural Education In Georgia
Authors: Rohs Frederick R. , Anderson Kimberly S.
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this study was to examine the motivational needs of middle grade (grade 7-8) students who enroll in Agricultural Education classes in Georgia. McClelland=s motivational needs theory served as the framework for the study. The data determined that agricultural students had a higher need for achievement than for affiliating or power and that no differences existed between FFA members and non FFA members. The study also determined that female agricultural education students had a higher need for affiliation and power than male students. No differences were found in the need for achievement, affiliation or power when students were grouped by grade orgeographic location. African-American students had a higher need for achievement and power than students in all other ethnic categories.
Competency Assessment And Human Resource Management Performance Of County Extension Chairs In Ohio
Authors: Lindner James R.
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this descriptive and correlational study was to examine perceptions of Ohio State University Extension county chairs regarding their human resource management competencies and performance of human resource management activities. The study also sought to describe the relationship between human resource management competencies and performance of human resource management activities of county chairs. County chairs were selected for study because they represent the first line of management most clientele and employees face. They also represent a group of extension managers least likely to have formal education or specialized training in human resource management. The highest human resource management competencies perceived by county chairs were written comprehension, oral comprehension, written expression, information gathering, inductive reasoning, and problem sensitivity. The human resource management activities for which county chairs indicated the highest means were: developing and maintaining positive work environment, administering wages and benefits, ensuring safety and health at worksites, and selecting and hiring employees. The correlation between summated competency and activity scores were significant with a very strong relationship between the variables.
Handling Nonresponse In Social Research
Authors: Lindner James R. , Murphy Tim H. , Briers Gary E.
Published: December 2010

This study was designed to describe and explore how nonresponse in the Journal of Agricultural Education has been handled historically. All articles (N=364) published in the Journal of Agricultural Education during the years 1990 through 1999 were analyzed using content analysis techniques. Study findings show that not mentioning nonresponse error as a threat to external validity of a study, not attempting to control for nonresponse error, or not providing a reference to the literature were, unfortunately, the norm and not the exception. This study provides three statistically sound and professionally acceptable procedures and protocols for handling nonresponse: Method 1—Comparison of Early to Late Respondents; Method 2—Using "Days to Respond" as a regression variable; and Method 3—Compare Respondents to Nonrespondents.
The Influence Of Learning Communities And 4-H/FFA Participation On College Of Agriculture Students' Academic Performance And Retention
Authors: Ball Anna L. , Garton Bryan L. , Dyer James E.
Published: December 2010

One of the most important challenges facing colleges of agriculture today involves recruiting, retaining, and educating high caliber individuals who are academically prepared to function in a rapidly changing food, fiber, and natural resource industry. This study compared the influence of participation in a learning community called a Freshman Interest Group (FIG) and participation in agricultural youth organizations (4-H/FFA) on academic performance and retention of freshmen in the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources at the University of Missouri. Freshmen enrolled in a college-wide learning and development course in the Fall of 1997 and 1998 (n = 442) participated. Involvement in a FIG and participation in an agricultural youth organization (4-H and/or FFA) were investigated as variables that could possibly influence academic performance and retention. Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) procedures were utilized to determine the influence of participation in FIGs and agricultural youth organizations on academic performance. The Chi square test for association was utilized to determine the influence of participation in FIGs and agricultural youth organizations on retention. Participation in a Freshman Interest Group was not found to be a significant variable influencing students' academic performance or retention for the sophomore year. However, prior involvement in agricultural youth organizations was found to have a significant association with students' academic performance as well as retention. The study raises important implications for the recruitment of individuals with prior experience in agricultural youth organizations.
COMPETENCY-BASED BEHAVIORAL ANCHORS AS AUTHENTICATION TOOLS TO DOCUMENT DISTANCE EDUCATION COMPETENCIES
Authors: Dooley Kim E. , Lindner James R.
Published: December 2010

This study developed a self-assessment instrument to document growth in distance education core competencies in a graduate course in a land-grant institution. Competency-based behavioral anchors served as authentication tools to document student learning. The researchers used naturalistic inquiry to design the data collection instrument and analyze the data using constant-comparative methods. The authenticated results were reported in three areas: individual and average growth in core competencies, open-ended verification of growth, and attitudinal change. Although individual students showed great variation in competence at the beginning of the course, students had similar competency levels at the end of the course. This competency model worked well as a self-assessment and behavioral benchmarking tool to document student learning and teaching effectiveness. Instructors can use this information to enhance course rigor and modify or refine teaching strategies and content delivery.
EVALUATION OF A COMPUTER-BASED, ASYNCHRONOUS ACTIVITY ON STUDENT LEARNING OF LEADERSHIP CONCEPTS
Authors: Boyd Barry L. , Murphrey Theresa Pesl
Published: December 2010

Educators require a variety of delivery methods to maintain students’ motivation and attention, and to address different learning styles (Born & Miller, 1999). Vehicles that can reinforce cognitive knowledge and provide students the opportunity to put theory into practice include simulations, role-play, and games. Alessi and Trollip (1991) provide five major types of computer-based instructional programs: tutorials, drills, simulations, instructional games, and tests. Computer-based multimedia gives instructional designers the tools of animation, video, and sound to provide learners with working models that convey complex concepts. The purpose of this study was to ascertain if the use of an asynchronously delivered simulation activity to teach leadership styles and ethics theory would improve learning. The study employed a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group. Comparison of student performance on selected examination questions revealed that the treatment group (N=83) answered 9% more questions correctly than did the control group (N=113). In addition, students in the treatment group performed significantly better on examination questions written at the knowledge, comprehension, and analysis levels based on Bloom’s Taxonomy of Learning Objectives: Cognitive Domain (Bloom, 1956). Students in the treatment group performed equally well, regardless of learning preference (visual, aural, kinesthetic or multi-modal). It was concluded that computer-based simulations have the ability to improve student learning of leadership concepts at higher cognitive levels while allowing students to apply theory to real world situations.
AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION COMPETENCIES AND PROGRESS TOWARD A DOCTORAL DEGREE
Authors: Lindner James R. , Dooley Kim E.
Published: December 2010

This study was designed to describe the compilation of doctoral students’ knowledge, skill, and abilities as they progressed toward a degree in agricultural education. A census of beginning, middle, and end of program doctoral students at Texas A&M University was conducted. An 85% response rate was achieved. Data for the study were collected by mailed questionnaire and online through the Internet. Study findings showed that as doctoral students progressed toward a degree, their Foundations Knowledge, Applications Knowledge, International Knowledge, Social Skills, Content Skills, Process Skills, Complex Problem-Solving Skills, Systems Skills, Resource Management Skills, Verbal Abilities, Idea Generation and Reasoning Abilities, Auditory and Speech Abilities, Attentiveness Abilities, and Perception Abilities increased. Recommendations for validating and authenticating study findings are provided. This study provides a model for benchmarking competencies and provides a taxonomy from which to study and understand/consider agricultural education competencies.