bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building an Accelerated Online Graduate Program for Military Officers
Authors: Collins Royce Ann , Kang Haijun , Yelich Biniecki Susan , Favor Judy
Published: February 2017

Because of the intense and unique nature of their military life, military officers face challenges that other students do not need to be concerned about when taking courses online. An institution's ability to understand these military officer students, design online programs to meet their unique learning needs, and deliver valuable online curriculum to advance their learning is instrumental to the long-term success of both the military student and the institution. Reflecting on our more than twenty years of experience teaching and mentoring military officer students, this article tells the story behind the development of an accelerated online program and shares the challenges brought along with having military officers in our online classes, including unpredictable deployment schedules, unannounced military exercises, security concerns, and military values and culture. How our faculty creatively and pedagogically addressed these challenges while still maintaining the rigor of our academic program is also discussed.
An Analysis of Supports for Persistence for the Military Student Population
Authors: Mentzer Bruce D , Black Ellen Lowrie , Spohn R. Terry
Published: February 2017

This study sought to describe the correlation of academic, financial, and social supports to the persistence of a military student population: veterans, active duty, and their families. The study also contrasted these relationships with non-military students and looked at the results of the overall group to persistence. Results confirmed the emphasis in the persistence literature on the importance of academic support mechanisms and noted its positive relationship to the military student population. Financial supports varied for the military student population, nonmilitary population, and the overall group with the military student population negatively impacted by loans, nonmilitary by university scholarships, and the overall group by government grants and aid. As an additional finding for this study, institutional support emerged as a key support mechanism. This study recommends enhancing academic and institutional support for the military student population to reinforce their persistence.
A Large Sample Comparison of Grade Based Student Learning Outcomes in Online vs. Face-to-Face Courses
Authors: Cavanaugh Joseph , Jacquemin Stephen J
Published: February 2017

Comparisons of grade based learning outcomes between online and face-to-face course formats have become essential because the number of online courses, online programs and institutional student enrollments have seen rapid growth in recent years. Overall, online education is largely viewed by education professionals as being equivalent to instruction conducted face-to-face. However, the research investigating student performance in online versus face-to-face courses has been mixed and is often hampered by small samples or a lack of demographic and academic controls. This study utilizes a dataset that includes over 5,000 courses taught by over 100 faculty members over a period of ten academic terms at a large, public, four-year university. The unique scale of the dataset facilitates macro level understanding of course formats at an institutional level. Multiple regression was used to account for student demographic and academic corollaries—factors known to bias course format selection and grade based outcomes—to generate a robust test for differences in grade based learning outcomes that could be attributed to course format. The final model identified a statistical difference between course formats that translated into a negligible difference of less than 0.07 GPA points on a 4 point scale. The primary influence on individual course grades was student GPA. Interestingly, a model based interaction between course type and student GPA indicated a cumulative effect whereby students with higher GPAs will perform even better in online courses (or alternatively, struggling students perform worse when taking courses in an online format compared to a face-to-face format). These results indicate that, given the large scale university level, multi course, and student framework of the current study, there is little to no difference in grade based student performance between instructional modes for courses where both modes are applicable.
Adopting MOOCs on Campus: A Collaborative Effort to Test MOOCs on Campuses of the University System of Maryland
Authors: Griffiths Rebecca J. , Chingos Matthew M. , Spies Richard , Mulhern Christine
Published: February 2017

To address the paucity of data on the use of MOOCs in “traditional” postsecondary institutions, Ithaka S+R and the University System of Maryland studied the feasibility of repurposing MOOCs for use in hybrid, credit-bearing courses. In this paper we will describe the design of a large-scale study undertaken to examine the use of MOOCs in fourteen campus-based courses, followed by two types of findings: First, we will share quantitative outcomes from students in hybrid sections, comparing students who took MOOCs with those who were taught in a traditional face-to-face manner; second, we will share qualitative findings on the opportunities and challenges presented by the use of MOOCs on campus. Finally, we will reflect on what would need to occur in order for these models to see widespread adoption in the future.
Design and Implementation of Therapist Online Counseling
Authors: Thomas Aaron Owen
Published: February 2017

The following paper describes the rationale for creating an online therapy program of cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, for students at the University of Florida who are struggling with stress and anxiety. In addition, the paper discusses the unique challenges of the instructional design process of creating psychoeducational materials through cognitive task analysis and heuristics. Preliminary evidence suggests that higher education institutions may wish to implement similar programs in order to increase efficiency and serve both on-campus and distance students.
Online Master's Students Perceptions of Institutional Supports and Resources: Initial Survey Results
Authors: Milman Natalie B. , Posey Laurie , Pintz Christine , Wright Kayla , Zhou Pearl
Published: February 2017

This article presents the quantitative findings of an exploratory mixed methods study that investigated first- and second-year online graduate master’s students’: 1) perceptions of the importance of, and satisfaction with, administrative, academic, technical, and online community supports; 2) personal factors and grit level; and 3) differences, if any, that existed among students, in these areas. Findings showed that a large majority of students rated course-level supports (e.g., instructor support, embedded help, library) as important, in contrast to supports that might be needed on rare occasions (e.g., career services, bookstore) or by fewer students (e.g., veteran and international student services, writing center). Data stratification revealed differences between white and non-white students for career and counseling services, which white students rated “unimportant” and non-white students rated “very important.” Differences in students’ perception of importance and satisfaction with some services highlighted instructor and technical support as areas of focus for potential improvements. The study raises several questions important to online graduate education, such as: which supports and resources should be offered by institutions of higher education to promote success in online learning for online master’s graduate students? Are there strategies that need to be developed to better address the individual needs of a diverse student body, including nontraditional students and underrepresented minorities?
Enrollment, Engagement and Satisfaction in the BlendKit Faculty Development Open, Online Course
Authors: Moskal Patsy , Thompson Kelvin , Futch Linda
Published: February 2017

BlendKit is a 5-week course designed by the University of Central Florida in an open, online format specifically for the professional development of higher education faculty and designers preparing to design and teach blended learning courses. The evaluation of this course provides us with interesting and valuable information on the success of using an open approach of a MOOC compared to more traditional, highly structured professional development offerings typically seen in higher education. This article will focus on the lessons learned from the third iteration of this open, online course.
An Exploratory Factor Analysis and Reliability Analysis of the Student Online Learning Readiness (SOLR) Instrument
Authors: Yu Taeho , Richardson Jennifer C.
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this study was to develop an effective instrument to measure student readiness in online learning with reliable predictors of online learning success factors such as learning outcomes and learner satisfaction. The validity and reliability of the Student Online Learning Readiness (SOLR) instrument were tested using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and reliability analysis. Twenty items from three competencies–social competencies, communication competencies, and technical competencies–were designated for the initial instrument based on the Student Online Learning Readiness (SOLR) Model as a new conceptual model. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) revealed that four factor-structures of the instrument of student readiness in online learning explained 66.69% of the variance in the pattern of relationships among the items. All four factors had high reliabilities (all at or above Cronbach’s Î± > .823). Twenty items remained in the final questionnaire after deleting two items which cross-loaded on multiple factors (social competencies with classmates: five items; social competencies with instructor: five items; communication competencies: four items; and technical competencies: six items). The four-factor structure of the Student Online Learning Readiness (SOLR) instrument has been confirmed through this study. Educators can use the Student Online Learning Readiness (SOLR) instrument in order to gain a better understanding of the level of freshmen college students’ online learning readiness by measuring their social, communication, and technical competencies. In addition, this study examined two factors of social integration in Tinto’s Student Integration Model (SIM) and has introduced the Student Online Learning Readiness (SOLR) conceptual model with the purpose of extending Tinto’s social integration model to online learning environments.
Emotional Presence in a Relationship of Inquiry: The Case of One-to-One Online Math Coaching
Authors: Stenbom Stefan , Cleveland-Innes Martha , Hrastinski Stefan
Published: February 2017

Emotions have been confirmed to be a critical component of the process of learning. In the online Community of Inquiry theoretical framework, and the recently suggested online Relationship of Inquiry framework, emotions are considered a subsection of social presence. In this study, the concept of emotional presence is examined. This examination occurs within the Relationship of Inquiry framework, developed to analyze one-to-one online coaching. A survey of online coaches and a transcript coding procedure from the online coaching service Math Coach provide the data for the study. The results indicate that a Relationship of Inquiry framework consisting of cognitive, social, teaching, and emotional presence enhances the exploration of one-to-one online coaching settings. The interpretation of these results identifies emotional presence as an essential and distinct part of one-to-one online math coaching.
Toward an Understanding of Development of Learning to Solve Ill-Defined Problems in an Online Context: A Multi-Year Qualitative Exploratory Study
Authors: Peddibhotla Naren
Published: February 2017

The case study is a classic tool used in several educational programs that emphasizes solving of ill-defined problems. Though it has been used in classroom-based teaching and educators have developed a rich repertoire of methods, its use in online courses presents different challenges. To explore factors that develop skills in solving ill-defined problems, I present results of a seven-year study seeking to develop tools for facilitating and assessing skills for case studies in an online graduate class. This study began with the introduction of a classroom-based case method into an online graduate class. Over the following years, I used three sources of data to make changes to the design of the course with respect to case studies: feedback from students, feedback from colleagues, and measurement of student performance. Findings suggest the following general approaches may work better in online classes involving case studies in particular, and more broadly in courses that teach solving of ill-defined problems: 1) immersion (or the use of drills) to support trial and error learning especially given the additional distractions of an online setting as compared to attending classes on campus; 2) structure to facilitate learning as it involves building skills based on absorptive capacity that students acquire from skills learned earlier; 3) social learning to enhance trial and error learning; 4) inductive learning that may be more appropriate to online teaching as compared to deductive learning; 5) provision of structure instead of participation by the instructor may encourage self-discovery of methods to solve ill-defined problems in an online context.
A Study of Faculty Governance Leaders’ Perceptions of Online and Blended Learning
Authors: Ciabocchi Elizabeth , Ginsberg Amy Patraka , Picciano Anthony G.
Published: February 2017

This article reports the findings of a study on the perceptions of faculty governance leaders to online and blended learning. For the purposes of this study, faculty governance was defined as formally established bodies in colleges and universities such as senates, councils, and collective bargaining organizations that are affiliated with the American Association of University Professors (AAUP). While there have been many studies on the perceptions of students, faculty, and administrators, there has been very little research on the perceptions of faculty governance leaders who hold critical positions in colleges and universities. Governance leaders are at the crux of approval processes that influence the development of curricula, faculty personnel policies, and academic programs, all of which can impact the implementation of online and blended learning initiatives. The research methodology for this study included a survey sent to a sample of governance leaders at U.S. institutions of higher education and follow-up phone interviews or email correspondence with a small number of volunteers. The sample was identified using an American Association of University Professors (AAUP) membership list. The results of this study provide important new information on the perceptions of this influential group of leaders on matters related to online and blended learning.
Developing a Quality Improvement Process to Optimize Faculty Success
Authors: Merillat Linda , Scheibmeir Monica
Published: February 2017

As part of a major shift to embed quality improvement processes within a School of Nursing at a medium-sized Midwestern university, a faculty enrichment program using a Plan-Do-Act-Study design was implemented. A central focus for the program was the development and maintenance of an online faculty resource center identified as “My Faculty Center.” Nursing faculty used the tools in My Faculty Center to assess their baseline skills in the areas of teaching & learning best practices, use of learning management system, and technology. The first goal (Goal 1) of the systematic faculty development program was to measure the impact of the Faculty Enrichment program on overall faculty development with regards to technology. The second goal (Goal 2) was to evaluate the relationship, if any, between faculty development and student evaluations. To meet Goal 2, data from IDEA end-of-course evaluations (IDEA, n.d.) and the skills assessments were correlated. Results indicated that the instructor’s desire to learn more about teaching and learning best practices was positively correlated with students providing higher scores on progress on relevant objectives, perceiving the instructor as an excellent teacher, and the course summary scores. When students rated an instructor as an excellent teacher, that instructor self-reported a higher level of applying skills in using Desire-to-Learn (D2L). Negative correlations were found between the instructor’s self-reported skills with presentation and multimedia tools and the students’ perception of progress toward objectives, excellence of course, and overall course score. Based on the initial results, future professional development will optimize adequate training on the Learning Management System (i.e. D2L), for all faculty, and emphasize the effective use of technology in the classroom.
“Comfort” as a Critical Success Factor in Blended Learning Courses
Authors: Futch Linda S , DeNoyelles Aimee , Thompson Kelvin , Howard Wendy
Published: February 2017

There are substantial quantitative research and anecdotal reports on blended learning and blended learning courses. However, few research studies focus on what happens at the classroom level. This research study aims to consider the highly contextual environment of effective blended learning courses by identifying the strategies instructors use to unify the face-to-face and online components of their courses to support student success. Using a case study model, interviews were conducted with three community college instructors who were identified as exemplary teachers of blended learning courses in their institutions. The research questions explored in this article are: (R1) What are exemplary community college teachers’ perceived obstacles to student success in blended courses? and (R2) What solutions or strategies do exemplary community college teachers employ to overcome perceived obstacles to student success in blended courses? The interviews were analyzed by the researchers to identify descriptive themes and sub-themes related to student success. It was found that “comfort” emerged as a mediating factor for student success, with “organization,” “communication,” and “support” acting as supporting themes. These findings will be reported as pedagogical strategies and scalable best practices for the design of blended courses that promote student success.
"More Confident Going into College": Lessons Learned from Multiple Stakeholders in a New Blended Learning Initiative
Authors: Whiteside Aimee L. , Garrett Dikkers Amy , Lewis Somer
Published: February 2017

This article examined a blended learning initiative in a large suburban high school in the Midwestern region of the United States. It employed a single-case exploratory design approach to learn about the experience of administrators, teachers, students, and parents. Using Zimmerman’s Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) Theory as a guiding framework, this study explored surveys, face-to-face observation data, interview transcriptions, and focus group transcriptions to learn about different stakeholders’ experiences and their observations about student readiness for blended learning. As a result, the data suggested three major themes, namely how blended learning initiatives can promote autonomy and self-regulation, encourage inquiry and build relationships, and ultimately help students feel ready for college.
Relationships Between Minority Students Online Learning Experiences and Academic Performance
Authors: Kumi Yeboah Alex , Smith Patriann
Published: February 2017

The study investigated the relationship between minority students’ use of technology, social media, the number of online courses, program of study, satisfaction, and academic performance. Participants in the study were a diverse student body regarding age, gender, and educational level, and functioned at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Chi-square tests were used to find the relationship between participants’ online learning experiences and academic performance. Results showed that satisfaction and use of social media had no relationship with the academic performance of participants. However, a relationship existed between the use of technology, the number of courses in online, program of study, and academic performance. Categories that emerged from the open-ended questions were flexibility and time convenience, self-confidence, lack of support, self-regulated learning skills, and language and linguistic differences. The authors concluded that varying factors such as cultural, language, personal, and efficacy skills facilitated the academic performance of minority students in an online learning environment. This study reiterates the importance of establishing multicultural presence in an online course and suggests best pedagogical methods for teaching minority students in an online course.
Evaluation of Online Graduate Epidemiology Instruction and Student Outcomes
Authors: Knapke Jacqueline , Haynes Erin , Breen Julie , Kuhnell Pierce , Smith Laura , Meinzen-Derr Jareen
Published: February 2017

In the last two decades, online learning has transformed the field of higher education. Also during this time, institutions of higher education have seen increases in their adult learner populations. The flexibility and accessibility of an online education model is often particularly appealing to adult learners, who bring unique needs, expectations, and learning styles to their educational experiences. Using Kolb’s Learning Style Inventory and Knowles’ andragogy model as theoretical frameworks, this study evaluates an online graduate course in epidemiology in terms of the demographics, learning styles, satisfaction, and achievement of students. Comparing the online course to the same, land-based course that was offered concurrently, we found no differences between students’ learning styles, satisfaction, and overall achievement. However, students in the land-based class were more likely to be matriculated into a degree program (p
Sastra Cyber: Alternatif Komunikasi antara Karya Sastra dan Masyarakat Pembaca
Authors: Hidayat Arif
Published: February 2017

The existence of cyberliterary is an impact of technology development. Cyberliterary become new alternativefor writer to communicate his works to people. From Indonesian literary domain, we can conclude that a writer capabilitydetermined by his work
Pengajian dan Transformasi Sosiokultural dalam Masyarakat Muslim Tradisionalis Banjar
Authors: Alfisyah Alfisyah
Published: February 2017

Pengajian is a kind of Islamic preaching which has been found in traditional Muslim community in Banjar, SouthKalimantan. Pengajian is the origin of the emergence of Islamic boarding school (pesantren). Even though pesantren hasalready developed so fast, pengajian can keep its existence in Banjar traditional Muslim community. It even functions as aninstitution which can be dinamics and motivator of the sociocultural transformation in the society
Calcium sulfate dihydrate urolithiasis in a pet rabbit
Authors: Kucera Jaroslav , Koristkova Tamara , Gottwaldova Barbora , Jekl Vladimir
Published: February 2017

CASE DESCRIPTION A 3-year-old sexually intact male rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) was evaluated because of a 1-day history of signs of anorexia and depression.

CLINICAL FINDINGS Clinical examination revealed signs of depression, hunched posture, low skin elasticity (suggesting dehydration), slightly distended abdomen, and penile and preputial edema. The owner reported that the rabbit had been fed a routine diet, received water via a sipper bottle, and was allowed free movement around the home. It had been observed by the owner to bite and chew gypsum-based plaster from the walls of the home. Abdominal radiography and ultrasonography revealed radiopaque material in the urinary bladder, irregular thickening of the urinary bladder wall, and gaseous distention of the cecum. Urinalysis revealed mild hematuria and proteinuria. Results of the physical examination and other diagnostic tests were consistent with urolithiasis, cystitis, and gastrointestinal stasis.

TREATMENT AND OUTCOME At clinical examination, numerous small uroliths originating from the urethral orifice were removed and submitted for composition analysis via infrared and Raman spectrometry and polarized microscopy. Laparotomy-assisted flushing of the urinary bladder and urethra was performed, and the rabbit recovered without complication. Results of composition analysis indicated the uroliths were composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE This is the first report of calcium sulfate urolithiasis in a rabbit, which was attributed to dehydration (possibly due to inadequate water provision) and excessive dietary intake of sulfur in the form of gypsum-based plaster. Rabbits should be prevented from consuming plaster and other potential extradietary sources of sulfur and provided an appropriate water supply.
Cardiac findings in Quarter Horses with heritable equine regional dermal asthenia
Authors: Brinkman Erin L. , Weed Benjamin C. , Patnaik Sourav S. , Brazile Bryn L. , Centini Ryan M. , Wills Robert W. , Olivier Bari , Sledge Dodd G. , Cooley Jim , Liao Jun , Rashmir-Raven Ann M.
Published: February 2017

OBJECTIVE To compare biomechanical and histologic features of heart valves and echocardiographic findings between Quarter Horses with and without heritable equine regional dermal asthenia (HERDA).

DESIGN Prospective case-control study.

ANIMALS 41 Quarter Horses.

PROCEDURES Ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of aortic and mitral valve leaflets was assessed by biomechanical testing in 5 horses with HERDA and 5 horses without HERDA (controls). Histologic evaluation of aortic and mitral valves was performed for 6 HERDA-affected and 3 control horses. Echocardiography was performed in 14 HERDA-affected and 11 control horses. Biomechanical data and echocardiographic variables of interest were compared between groups by statistical analyses,

RESULTS Mean values for mean and maximum UTS of heart valves were significantly lower in HERDA-affected horses than in controls. Blood vessels were identified in aortic valve leaflets of HERDA-affected but not control horses. Most echocardiographic data did not differ between groups. When the statistical model for echocardiographic measures was controlled for body weight, mean and maximum height and width of the aorta at the valve annulus in short-axis images were significantly associated with HERDA status and were smaller for affected horses.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Lower UTS of heart valves in HERDA-affected horses, compared with those of control horses, supported that tissues other than skin with high fibrillar collagen content are abnormal in horses with HERDA. Lack of significant differences in most echocardiographic variables between affected and control horses suggested that echocardiography may not be useful to detect a substantial loss of heart valve tensile strength. Further investigation is warranted to confirm these findings. Studies in horses with HERDA may provide insight into cardiac abnormalities in people with collagen disorders.
Effects of sensor position on kinematic data obtained with an inertial sensor system during gait analysis of trotting horses
Authors: Moorman Valerie J. , Frisbie David D. , Kawcak Christopher E. , McIlwraith C. Wayne
Published: February 2017

OBJECTIVE To determine the effects of altering location of right forelimb and pelvic sensors on kinematic data obtained with a commonly used inertial sensor system during gait analysis of trotting horses.

DESIGN Experimental study.

ANIMALS 12 horses with mild to moderate lameness of at least 1 hind limb, with or without lameness of the forelimbs.

PROCEDURES All horses were examined while trotting on a high-speed treadmill. The right forelimb sensor was tested at 3 anatomic locations in random order: dorsal midline and 2 cm medial and lateral to that midline. During another treadmill session, the pelvic sensor was tested at 5 anatomic locations in random order: dorsal midline, 2 cm to the right and left of midline, and 2 cm cranial and caudal to the tubera sacrale on the midline. Laterality of the pelvic sensor was analyzed in 2 ways: sensor toward the right or left and sensor toward or away from the lame or lamest hind limb. Maximum and minimum differences in head and pelvic motion and vector sum values were ranked and compared with values for the midline location by means of mixed-model ANOVA.

RESULTS Altering the location of the right forelimb sensor by 2 cm medially or laterally had no significant effect on forelimb or hind limb kinematics. However, location of the pelvic sensor had a significant effect on minimum difference in pelvic motion, regardless of whether the data were analyzed by laterality (right vs left) or toward versus away from the lame hind limb.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results of this study indicated that a 2-cm change in the location of the pelvic sensor during kinematic gait analysis had a significant effect on hind limb kinematic data of the system used. Therefore, placement of this sensor needs to be anatomically accurate.
Trends in carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae, France, 2012 to 2014
Authors: Dortet Laurent , Cuzon Gaëlle , Ponties Valérie , Nordmann Patrice
Published: February 2017

In 2014, a total of 2,976 Enterobacteriaceae isolates with decreased susceptibility to carbapenems were received at the French Associated National Reference Center for Antibiotic Resistance (NRC) and were characterised for their molecular resistance mechanism to carbapenems and compared with results obtained during 2012 and 2013.The overall number of enterobacterial isolates with decreased susceptibility to carbapenems received at the NRC rapidly increased (more than twofold in two years) with a growing proportion of carbapenemase producers (23.1% in 2012 vs 28.6% in 2013 vs 36.2% in 2014). Between 2012 and 2014, the main carbapenemase type was OXA-48, with an increase in OXA-48 variants (mostly OXA-181) and NDM producers, whereas the number KPC producers decreased. We identified a potential spread of OXA-181 producers in the tropical region of Africa. Finally, OXA-48 and OXA-48-related enzymes remained the predominant carbapenemases in France. The number of carbapenemase-producing Escherischia coli isolates was multiplied by fivefold between 2012 and 2014, suggesting a possible dissemination in the community.
Evaluation of image quality in cervical spine lateral radiographs
Authors: Shrestha S , Maharhan S , Khanal U , Humagain M
Published: February 2017

In diagnostic radiography, cervical lateral spine x-ray is common radiographic examination among imaging of cervical spine. Thus, it is important to show entire anatomical structure, adequate penetration, soft tissue of neck and bony detail. This study attempts to quantify the quality of cervical spine radiographs by evaluating the quality of depiction of the anatomical and physical details. In this cross-sectional study, about 188 cases of cervical spine lateral radiographs were collected for study over the three months of period. Nine image criteria i.e. anatomical coverage, soft tissue visualization, C7/T1 junction, sharp bony detail, proper chin raise, artifact, density, patient rotation and collimation were followed and tabulated. Obtained data were analyzed using in SPSS v.20 software and shown in frequency, percentages, bar diagrams and graphs. Among 188 patients, about 23.4% cervical radiographs met all image criteria but remaining 76.6% did not meet these criteria due to no anatomical coverage (33.5%), no proper chin raise (46.3%), artifact (13.3%), patient rotation (50%) and no collimation (33.5%). It is difficult to perform good quality cervical radiograph according to European guidelines14. To a great extent the quality of cervical radiographs depends upon skill of radiographer, equipment condition (x-ray machine, CR reader) and co-operation of patients. This is always a challenge for radiographer and technologist.
Dipeptidyl-peptidase IV inhibitors and glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sapkota L B , Thapa S
Published: February 2017

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a progressive disease, characterized by insulin resistance, impaired glucose-induced insulin secretion, inappropriately elevated glucagon concentrations, and hyperglycemia. Many patients cannot obtain sat­isfactory glycemic control with current therapies. New and more effective agents, targeted not only at treatment, but also at prevention of the disease, its progression, and its associated complications, are, therefore, required. The dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors are a newer class of oral drugs for the treatment of T2DM. They inhibit the breakdown of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) thereby increasing the incretin ef­fect in patients with T2DM. In clinical practice they are associated with significant reductions in HbA1c, no weight gain and a low risk of hypoglycemia. Since incretin response is markedly diminished in Asian populations, these agents can be used to achieve satisfactory glycemic control in Nepalese T2DM patients.
An Exploration of the Relationship between Psychological Capital and Depression among First-Year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Students
Authors: Bakker Dorothy J. , Lyons Sean T. , Conlon Peter D.
Published: February 2017

This study examined the impact of psychological capital on depressive symptoms among Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) students (n=84) over their first two semesters of studies. Our results indicated elevated rates of depression in both the first and second semesters relative to published norms. Using the typology developed by Hafen, Reisbig, White, and Rush (2008), students were classified as either “adaptive” (i.e., improving depressive symptomatology from semester to semester) or “struggling” (i.e., worsening depressive symptomatology from semester to semester). All four components of psychological capital (i.e., self-esteem, optimism, hope, and resilience) were positively associated with adaptive response to depression. These results are significant, as the components of psychological capital can be learned and strengthened through deliberate interventions, providing tangible guidance for students, faculty, and health professionals in their efforts to improve student wellness.
The Effect of Personality on Occupational Stress in Veterinary Surgeons
Authors: Dawson Briony F.Y. , Thompson Neill J.
Published: February 2017

Statistics show that veterinary surgeons are in one of the professions with the highest suicide rates. This indicates the sector has significant well-being issues, with high levels of occupational stress and burnout. Previous research has focused on environmental factors in isolation, overlooking the influence of personality. This study aimed to establish that personality is a better predictor of occupational stress than environment. UK veterinary surgeons (n=311) completed an online survey composed of three questionnaires; the NEO Five-Factor Inventory, the Maslach Burnout Inventory, and the Job Stress Survey. Multiple regression analysis revealed that personality is a better predictor of occupational stress than environment (p<.001). Neuroticism is the trait that significantly predicts occupational stress (p<.001), and the components of neuroticism that contribute the most to stress are depression (p=.002) and anger hostility (p=.005). Demographic factors such as the number of years the veterinarian has been qualified acted as a mediator between depression and occupational stress (p<.001), and as a moderator between personal accomplishments and occupational stress (p=.028). Overall findings suggest that newly qualified veterinarians are at greater risk of suffering from high levels of occupational stress than those well established in the profession, and that veterinarians with higher levels of depression and anger hostility are likely to experience greater levels of occupational stress. Implications highlight the need for greater awareness of potentially susceptible personality traits in the veterinary admissions process. This would allow for the identification of those at risk and the implementation of interventions.
The Healer's Art (HART): Veterinary Students Connecting with Self, Peers, and the Profession
Authors: Meyer-Parsons Beatrice , Van Etten Sarah , Shaw Jane R.
Published: February 2017

This case study sought to understand veterinary students' perceptions and experiences of the Healer's Art (HART) elective to support well-being and resilience. Students' “mindful attention” was assessed using the MAAS-State scale. Course evaluations and written materials for course exercises (artifacts) across the 2012–2015 cohorts of Colorado State University's HART veterinary students (n=99) were analyzed for themes using a grounded theory approach, followed by thematic comparison with analyses of HART medical student participants. HART veterinary students described identity/self-expression and spontaneity/freedom as being unwelcome in the veterinary curriculum, whereas HART medical students described spirituality as unwelcome. HART veterinary students identified issues of “competition” and “having no time,” which were at odds with their descriptions of not competing and having the time to connect with self and peers within their HART small groups. HART veterinary students shared that the course practices of nonjudgment, generous listening, and presence (i.e., mindfulness practices) helped them build relationships with peers. Although not statistically significant, MAAS pre-/post-scores trended in the positive direction. HART provides opportunities for students to connect with self and foster bonds with peers and the profession, factors that are positively associated with resilience and wellness.
Vocation, Belongingness, and Balance: A Qualitative Study of Veterinary Student Well-Being
Authors: Cardwell Jacqueline M. , Lewis Elisa G.
Published: February 2017

An elevated risk for suicide among veterinarians has stimulated research into the mental health of the veterinary profession, and more recently attention has turned to the veterinary student population. This qualitative study sought to explore UK veterinary students' perceptions and experiences of university life, and to consider how these may affect well-being. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 students from a single UK school who were purposively selected to include perspectives from male, female, graduate-entry, standard-entry (straight from high school), and widening participation students across all 5 years of the program. Three main themes were identified: a deep-rooted vocation, navigating belongingness, and finding balance. Participants described a long-standing goal of becoming a veterinarian, with a determination reflected by often circuitous routes to veterinary school and little or no consideration of alternatives. Although some had been motivated by a love of animals, others were intrinsically interested in the scientific and problem-solving challenges of veterinary medicine. Most expressed strong feelings of empathy with animal owners. The issue of belongingness was central to participants' experiences, with accounts reflecting their efforts to negotiate a sense of belongingness both in student and professional communities. Participants also frequently expressed a degree of acceptance of poor balance between work and relaxation, with indications of a belief that this imbalance could be rectified later. This study helps highlight future avenues for research and supports initiatives aiming to nurture a sense of collegiality among veterinary students as they progress through training and into the profession.
French-Canadian Letters
Authors: Collin W.E.
Published: February 2017

Reviews of French-Canadian books published in 1941.
The Grail Poetry of Charles Williams
Authors: Crowley C.P.
Published: February 2017

Charles Williams, Anglican layman, editor of the Oxford Press and lecturer at Oxford University, was a man of varied talents who illuminated any subject he touched, and whose interests ranged through history, witchcraft, literary criticism, theology, biography and drama. Best known for his extraordinary novels, Williams has not fared so well with his poetry which has been, for the most part, neglected by critics and ignored by the general reading public. This is a pity because among the several books of verse which he published over the years are two slim volumes containing some of the most fascinating poetry written in our time. The volumes of which I write, Taliessin through Logres (1938), and The Region of the Summer Stars (1944), contain his Grail poems, a reworking of the theme of the Holy Grail into a poetic myth of unusual wisdom and contemporary significance. It is a unique handling, a fresh vision, of an old subject-matter which has been almost completely neglected in English literature.
Web-Based Financial Reporting: An Interpretative Model for Corporate Communications on Social Media
Authors: Ramassa Paola , Di Fabio Costanza
Published: February 2017

This paper aims at contributing to financial reporting literature by proposing a conceptual interpretative model to analyse the corporate use of social media for financial communication purposes. In this perspective, the FIRE model provides a framework to study social media shifting the focus on the distinctive features that might enhance web investor relations. The model highlights these features through four building blocks: (i) firm identity (F); (ii) information posting (I); (iii) reputation (R); and (iv) exchange and diffusion (E). They represent key aspects to explore corporate communication activities and might offer a framework to interpret to what degree corporate web financial reporting exploits the potential of social media. Accordingly, the paper proposes metrics based on this model aimed at capturing the interactivity of corporate communications via social media, with a particular focus on web financial reporting. It tries to show the potential of this model by illustrating an exploratory empirical analysis investigating to what extent companies use social media for financial reporting purposes and whether firms are taking advantage of Twitter distinctive features of interaction and diffusion.
A Multicentre Based Observation of a Screening tool to Differentiate Microcytosis and Hypochromia
Authors: Dipta Tashmim Farhana , Kabir Amin Lutful , Rahman Md Hafizur , Sultana Gazi Sharmin , Hossain Ahmed Zahid , Fatema Nafisa , Ferdousi Shamima
Published: February 2017

Back ground: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and beta-thalassaemia trait (B-TT) are the most common causes of hypochromic microcytic anemia. Many indices have been defined to quickly discriminate these similar entities via parameters obtained from automated blood count analyzers.Methodology: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the predictive value of these indices in differential diagnosis of IDA and B-TT in adult cases. In this study we use auto-analyzer based formula of percentages of microcytic and hypochromic red cells (M/H ratio=% of Microcytosis/% of Hypochromia) as a screening tool for thalassaemia trait in Bangladeshi population.Results: A total of 150 subjects w ere included in this study with 50 known obligate carrier of beta-thalassaemia trait and 100 patients with hypochromia and microcytosis. Confirmatory tests for IDA were performed if serum ferritin level was <12 ng/ml and confirmatory test for Beta-thalassaemia trait (BTT) and Haemoglobin E trait can be considered when HbA2 > 3.5% , on agarose gel Haemoglobin electrophoresis at an alkaline pH (8.6) where, in addition, MCV <76 fl and/or MCH <27 pg. BTT was selected with HbA2 >3.5%, while the non- BTT group were those with HbA2 <3.5%.The final analysis of the result revealed that M/H ratio is a very sensitive index for betathalassaemia trait. In our study, the sensitivity, predictive value and diagnostic accuracy of the M/H ratio for the beta thalassaemia trait were 96%, 90.4% and 90.4% respectively and also identify all cases of coexistent iron deficiency.Conclusion: Thus M/H ratio is an easy, reliable and sensitive index which can be used for mass screening of betathalassaemia trait, particularly in a population where iron deficiency anemia is also prevalent.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 7, No. 1: Jan 2016, P 5-10
Transfusion Transmissible Diseases Among Healthy Blood Donors Attended at Transfusion Medicine Department of DMCH in 2014
Authors: Karim Shanaz , Hoque Ehteshamul , Hoque Mazharul
Published: February 2017

Background: This study was carried out to find out the seropositive of HBV, HCV, HIV, Treponema pallidum and Malarial parasite among the blood donors attended at transfusion medicine department of DMCH in 2014. Our objective is to prevent the spread of Transfusion transmissible disease through blood transfusion and awareness of mass population about TTI.Method: This study was carried out at transfusion medicine department of DMCH from 1st January 2014 to 31st December 2014.Total blood donors were 39,512.Blood donors of 18 - 60 years of both sexes were included in this study.Results: Among 39,512 blood donors relative blood donors were 32,778(82.95 %), voluntary blood donors were 6734.( 17.04% Among 39,512 blood donors , HBsAg positive 456 (1.154%), Anti HCV positive 33(.090%), Malarial Parasite positive 04 (.010), Treponema pallidum positive 87 (.220%) and positive for HIV 01(.0025%)Conclusion: Prevention of spread of TTIs should be the main goal at the current time. It is important to follow the WHO guidelines to tests every donor for HBV, HCV, HIV and Syphilis to decrease the transmission of TTIs.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 7, No. 1: Jan 2016, P 11-13
Awareness on Neonatal Care Among Rural Mothers of Reproductive Age Group Admitted in A Tertiary Level Hospital at Mymensingh
Authors: Huq Sazia , Haque Syed Mohammad Tanjilul , Rahman Md Atiqur , Mahmuda Farzana , Mahjabein Maeda
Published: February 2017

Background: In Bangladesh the neonatal mortality rate is unacceptably high, at 48.4 per 1,000 live births and it is higher in rural areas while the neonatal mortality rate in Asia is 41 per 1,000 live-births, compared to 7 per 1,000 live-births in developed countries.Methodology: This descriptive type of cross sectional study was carried out among 180 rural mothers of reproductive age in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh from October 2013 to January 2014. Data were collected on a pretested questionnaire by face to face interview. Data were analyzed manually and by using computer.Results: The study revealed that 50.6% of the respondents were housewife & education wise 42.2% had primary education with mean age 26.28 ±5.50 years. 61% respondents knew that cord should be cut by sterile blade and 65% respondents mentioned that cord should be cut immediate after delivery. Among them 44.4% knew about initiation of breast feeding within 1st hour of delivery, 71.1% believed the importance of colostrums feeding. Only 30% of the respondents knew about frequency of breast feeding to the baby should be 8-10 times in a day and 58% had knowledge on exclusive breast feeding. Of the respondents 52.2% went for exclusive breast feeding but others did not. 67% respondents immunized their baby whereas 33% did not. More than half of the respondents (59%) cleaned their breast before feeding and 80.6% respondents washed their hands before handling their newborn. A significant association was found between education and knowledge on immunization of newborn (P=0.000), education and exclusive breast feeding (P=0.003).Conclusion: The current study may boost up the awareness among rural mothers of reproductive age group on neonatal care which will further encourage them to be educated and thus neonatal morbidity & mortality may decline in some extent.Anwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 7, No. 1: Jan 2016, P 14-19
College News Vol.7(1)
Authors: Rahman Md Tahminur
Published: February 2017

Abstract not availableAnwer Khan Modern Medical College Journal Vol. 7, No. 1: Jan 2016, P 65