bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two-dimensional shear wave elastography for assessing liver fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disease: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Yoo Hae Won , Kim Sang Gyune , Jang Jae Young , Yoo Jeong-Ju , Jeong Soung Won , Kim Young Seok , Kim Boo Sung
Published: December 2021

Background/Aims: The objective of this study was to determine whether the newly developed two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE, RS85, Samsung-shearwave imaging) was more valid and reliable than transient elastography (TE) for predicting the stage of liver fibrosis.Methods: The study prospectively enrolled a total of 116 patients with chronic liver disease who underwent 2D-SWE, TE, laboratory testing, and liver biopsy on the same day from two tertiary care hospitals. One patient with unreliable measurement was excluded. The measurement of 2D-SWE was considered acceptable when a homogenous color pattern in a region of interest of at least 10 mm was detected at 10 different sites. Diagnostic performance was calculated using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC).Results: Liver fibrosis stages included F0 (18%), F1 (19%), F2 (24%), F3 (22%), and F4 (17%). Interclass correlation coefficient for inter-observer agreement in 2D-SWE was 0.994 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.988 to 0.997). Overall, the results of 2D-SWE and stages of histological fibrosis were significantly correlated (r = 0.601, p < 0.001). For The 2D-SWE showed good diagnostic ability (AUROC, 0.851; 95% CI, 0.773 to 0.911) comparable to TE (AUROC, 0.859; 95% CI, 0.781 to 0.916) for the diagnosis of significant fibrosis (≥ F2), and the cut-off value was 5.8 kPa. AUROC and optimal cut-off of 2D-SWE for the diagnosis of liver cirrhosis were 0.889 (95% CI, 0.817 to 0.940) and 9.6 kPa, respectively. TE showed similar diagnostic performance in distinguishing cirrhosis (AUROC, 0.938; 95% CI, 0.877 to 0.974; p = 0.08).Conclusions: 2D-SWE is comparable to TE in diagnosing significant fibrosis and liver cirrhosis with high reliability.
Cyberpornographie : quelle place pour les adultes, quel accompagnement pour les enfants ?
Authors: Sylla Arnaud , Rohmer Thomas
Published: December 2021

Dans cette interview Thomas Rohmer évoque les missions de l’Observatoire de la Parentalité et de l'Éducation Numérique. Il décline notamment ses interrogations sur l’approche de la prévention contemporaine vis-à-vis des sexualités et questionne les enjeux de l’application de la loi quant à l’accès aux contenus pornographiques en ligne par les mineurs. Son témoignage reprend différentes initiatives menées en lien avec les décideurs politiques, ce en s’appuyant sur les acteurs culturels des milieux pornographiques. Le parti pris est alors de s’affranchir des approches moralisantes afin d’accompagner l’accès à la sexualité des jeunes.
Les incidences de l'empreinte numérique chez les enfants et adolescents suivis en CMP
Authors: Enkelaar Nathalie , Piron Nathalie , Vlachopoulou Xanthie
Published: December 2021

La crise sanitaire de la Covid 19 a eu un effet de loupe sur les usages et mésusages du numérique. Plongés dans le virtuel, les jeunes patients se sont trouvés confrontés à des problématiques inédites et les professionnels ont dû prendre en compte l'empreinte du numérique afin d’accompagner au mieux les enfants et adolescents dans cette période particulière. Nos observations cliniques sont issues de la pratique en Centre Médico-Psychologique (CMP) depuis le premier confinement de mars 2020.
Feature selection and classification approaches in gene expression of breast cancer
Authors: Ghosh Sarada ,   Department of Statistics, Gurudas College, Phool Bagan, Kolkata-700054, India, Samanta Guruprasad , De la Sen Manuel ,   Department of Mathematics, Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Shibpur, Howrah-711103, India,   Institute of Research and Development of Processes, University of the Basque Country, 48940 Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
Published: December 2021

DNA microarray technology with biological data-set can monitor the expression levels of thousands of genes simultaneously. Microarray data analysis is important in phenotype classification of diseases. In this work, the computational part basically predicts the tendency towards mortality using different classification techniques by identifying features from the high dimensional dataset. We have analyzed the breast cancer transcriptional genomic data of 1554 transcripts captured over from 272 samples. This work presents effective methods for gene classification using Logistic Regression (LR), Random Forest (RF), Decision Tree (DT) and constructs a classifier with an upgraded rate of accuracy than all features together. The performance of these underlying methods are also compared with dimension reduction method, namely, Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The methods of feature reduction with RF, LR and decision tree (DT) provide better performance than PCA. It is observed that both techniques LR and RF identify TYMP, ERS1, C-MYB and TUBA1a genes. But some features corresponding to the genes such as ARID4B, DNMT3A, TOX3, RGS17 and PNLIP are uniquely pointed out by LR method which are leading to a significant role in breast cancer. The simulation is based on R-software.
The Gender Gap in Engineering Education During The COVID-19 Lockdown: A Study Case
Authors: Bordel Sánchez Borja , Alcarria Ramón , Robles Tomás , Martin Diego
Published: December 2021

Higher education in Spain, especially in Madrid, was suddenly and unex-pectedly shut down on March 9th 2020 because of the beginning of the COVID-19 first wave emergency. In engineering education, where practical laboratories are a relevant part of the educational process, professors followed different approaches (sometimes concurrently), designed after only three or five days of discussions. Although, globally, the obtained results are ac-ceptable considering the situation, after informally analyzing the data and observing the post-lockdown students’ profile, it emerges clearly that some collectives have suffered a higher impact than other. The objective of this work is to analyze if the performance of women in engineering courses, spe-cifically in computer engineering, is different from male students. The study case is carried out at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, particularly, in the computer engineering degree. Furthermore, if a statistically relevant differ-ence is discovered, the final causes of this worrying situation will be studied. Official academic results were analyzed. Besides, more than one hundred surveys among students were developed. Results clearly show a deterioration in all indicators for all collectives and students, comparing the performance during the lockdown and the performance of previous years. However, this impact is not homogenous, and results also show how there is, actually, a gender gap placing women in engineering education during the lockdown (an after) in a disadvantaged situation
Data Visualization to Explore the Countries Dataset for Pattern Creation
Authors: Khan Shakir
Published: December 2021

Data visualization is graph representation of data. It produces interactive graphs that explain the relationships among the data to viewers of the graph. The aim of data visualization is to communicate data value clearly and effectively through graphs [1]. Here we take the advantage of data visualization to explore the countries dataset to provide a holistic and interpretive view about the world. In addition to examine some hypotheses about gross domestic product (GDP) and Literacy and more of the countries effects on different factors showing on the dataset such as the literacy and the migration.
A Gateway Selection Mechanism for Internet-assisted MANETs
Authors: Le Ngoc Anh , Nguyen Tan Duy , Vu Quy Khanh
Published: December 2021

Internet-assisted MANETs architecture is an emerging solution, strongly introduced in recent years. In fact, MANETs are self-configurable wireless network models for convenient communication between mobile nodes in the network. Because of simplicity, MANETs are applied in a series of domains to serve humanity, such as intelligent agriculture, intelligent transport system, and IoT ecosystem. To extend the ability of MANETs,  the integration of Internet and MANETs to form Internet-assisted MANETs architecture was introduced in many studies. However, one of the biggest problems of this solution is how to choose the optimal Internet gateway. This study proposes a gateway selection mechanism based on parameters, including hop number and gateway traffic. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed mechanism, we compare the proposed solution with previous solutions. The simulation results demonstrated that our solution improved end-to-end delay, routing overload, and loss packet ratio compared to previous protocols.
The Enhancement of OSH Training with an Augmented Reality-Based App
Authors: Kamal Ahmad Alif , Junaini Syahrul Nizam , Hashim Abdul Halim , Sukor Faizal Sufri , Said Muhammad Farez
Published: December 2021

Recent advances in training approaches and technology have identified the need to improve training in the field of occupational safety and health (OSH). While many researchers have examined the use of augmented reality (AR) and technology-based classrooms to enhance conventional training practices, quantitative evidence for their effectiveness and motivational im-pact remains scarce. To contribute to filling this research gap, an AR-based application was developed to enhance OSH training. The enhanced training session was conducted in a closed, safe environment with ten participants with no background in OSH. Pre-test, post-test, and instructional material motivation surveys (IMMS) using a five-point Likert scale were deployed to measure the effectiveness and motivational impact in accordance with the respective ARCS factors. The empirical results obtained show that partici-pants performed significantly better in the post-tests than in the pre-tests (mean = 14.60, s = 1.71, t(9) = –12.11 with p-value < 0.001). The IMMS re-sults show that the perceived motivation arising from the AR-based applica-tion resulted in the highest mean score for the satisfaction factor (4.80) fol-lowed by the relevance (4.65), confidence (4.60), and attention (4.55) fac-tors. The results of the evaluation suggest that the AR-based application boosted participants’ active learning behavior, engagement, and interest dur-ing the enhanced training session and produced a better learning outcome and experience.
Analysis and Design of Prototype Application of Caregivers’ Supportive System Phase 1 Alzheimer’s Based on a Design Thinking Process
Authors: Kongjit Chalermpon , Tuntisak Prem
Published: December 2021

There are 7 million Alzheimer’s patients in Thailand, and 10% of people of 65 years of age or more are in the early stages of this pernicious disease. Alzheimer’s reduces the quality of daily life in several ways, as well as having a negative impact on the work performance of the patient’s family.  Alzheimer's’ patients cannot receive proper care at home, despite the good intentions and efforts of family members, but this is the only option available to many families due to the cost of care in an external setting. The tendency for Alzheimer's patients to wander away from home and become lost is even more problematic for their families and this tendency is estimated to worsen as time goes by. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to alleviate the concern of families by preventing their loved ones who are suffering from Alzheimer's from wandering away from home and becoming lost by designing a prototype system that can track and monitor their movements.Design thinking was used in this research as a creative problem-solving approach to produce an application with the core functions of tracking and monitoring the movement of Alzheimer's patients. The application’s accuracy was validated by a scenario test, the results of which were discussed based on user feedback.
A Historic Perspective of Endophytes in Vascular Plants and Their Role in Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Kurissery Sreekumari , Shaw Leah Katherine , Kanavillil Nandakumar
Published: December 2021

The term “endophyte” comes from words “endo” meaning within and “phyton” meaning plant. In 1866, De Bary first defined an endophyte as any organism that resides in the tissues of plants but not causing any harm. Thus, endophytes can be a microorganism, usually fungi or bacteria, that colonizes plants parts. The plant tissues/parts where endophytes grow include healthy leaves, petioles, stems, twigs, bark, roots, fruits, flowers, and seeds. They are found virtually in every one of the 300,000 species of vascular plants. Many endophytes co-exist in a single plant host with their populations ranging from one to hundreds of bacterial/fungal species. This chapter outlines a historical perspective of endophytes including ethnobotanical approach to drug discovery. Also, this chapter provides upto date information on the emerging role of endophytes in the sustainability of pasture and economy of agriculture, thereby contributing to the environmental sustainability.
Traditional Herbs With Potential Wound Healing Properties
Authors: Babu Neelesh , Singh Ajeet , Navneet
Published: December 2021

Medicinal plants have been necessary to conventional and non-customary types of prescriptions dating back to somewhere around 5000 years ago. Researchers progressively depend on current logical techniques and proof-based medication to demonstrate the viability of herbal medicines and spotlight on a better comprehension of the systems of their activity. Notwithstanding, data concerning quantitative human health advantages on natural remedies is yet uncommon, constraining their legitimate valuation. Traditional medicines are regularly utilized for the wound-healing process covering a wide zone of various skin-related infections. This chapter will give information about the wound-healing capability of plants that are useful for the advancement of new wound-healing formulations.
Phytochemistry and Antigenotoxic Properties of Six Ethnobotanically Important Members From the Family Zingiberaceae
Authors: Nag Anish
Published: December 2021

Genotoxicity is considered as a potential cause of various diseases including cancer. During the last decade, herbal extracts attained a great deal of attention due to its safe and effective applications against various DNA damaging agents. However, the mechanism of DNA strand breaks by various mutagens and genotoxins is often correlated with the generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). Herbal extracts constitute a number of phytochemicals and those are reported to have considerable antioxidant properties, which are in turn capable of neutralizing ROS mediated DNA damage. The botanical family Zingiberaceae is reported to have significant antioxidant and antigenotoxic potential by various researchers. Among a number of species belonging to this family, six species, namely Alpinia galanga, A. zerumbet, Curcuma amada, C. caesia, Zingiber officinale, and Z. zerumbet, attract notable attention due to their remarkable ethnobotanical and medicinal importance. This chapter deals with phytochemical composition, antioxidant, and antigenotoxic properties of these six Zingiberaceous plant extracts.
Ethnic Use, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of Cyperus rotundus
Authors: Rahmatullah Mohammed , Jannat Khoshnur , Reeck Gerald R. , Jahan Rownak , Rahman Taufiq , Shova Nasrin A. , Islam Maidul
Published: December 2021

Cyperus rotundus (nut grass in English) is a perennial erect sedge plant and is distributed in over 90 countries of the world, where it has been mostly classified as a highly invasive weed. Despite this classification, the plant has been considered from traditional times to be medicinally important. The traditional uses of the plant in various countries include uses against various gastrointestinal tract disorders, skin diseases, leprosy, fever, and neurological disorders. Evaluation of the plant and especially its rhizomes in a scientific manner has revealed the presence of numerous phytochemicals and wide-ranging pharmacological activities, which include anti-microbial, gastrointestinal, wound healing, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-malarial, anti-obesity, hepatoprotective, and anti-pyretic activity. The scientific validation of a number of traditional uses strongly indicates that the plant may prove useful in the discovery of a number of lead compounds and novel drugs.
The Chemical Constituents, Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Oxidant, and Ethnomedicinal Properties of Aloe barbadensis
Authors: Adom Dickson , Sekyere Paul Appiah , Krishnappa Mohan Kumar
Published: December 2021

Aloe vera is a perennial, drought-resisting, succulent plant belonging to the Asphodelaceae family that has a long history of having many tremendous medicinal and anti-inflammatory as well as anti-bacterial properties. This chapter highlights the great potentials of the aloe vera species. Desk study and document analysis guided the systematic and extensive review of both published and unpublished resources on the Aloe vera Species. The chapter contends that horticulturists and plant scientists in the field of agriculture and medicine must pay attention to the Aloe vera as a medicinal plant that possesses the most powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which protects the body against constipation through enhancing the body metabolism, skin, and worm infestations.
Designing a Framework of Ethnomedicinal Plant Knowledge Integration Using OSS
Authors: Das Piyali
Published: December 2021

Indigenous knowledge refers to the knowledge, innovations, and practices of indigenous communities. Ethnic groups are repository knowledge of herbal medicine. Many indigenous people use several plants for medicinal preparations, and these medicines are known as ethnomedicine. It has developed from experience gained over centuries. Species of ethnomedicinal plants are threatened in most of nations due to overexploitation, habitat loss, destructive harvesting techniques, unsustainable trade, and deforestation. Documented indigenous knowledge on ethnomedicine forms part of the documentary heritage of the nation. The chapter will provide a framework for design an information retrieval system for ethnomedicine or knowledge on medicinal plants that are used to manage human ailments. The framework will be prepared, established on the open source software (OSS), and is appropriate not only for documentation but also beneficial for retrieving domain-specific knowledge. The model provides a framework for resource integration digitally using Greenstone Digital Library (GSDL) software.
Role of Spices Beyond a Flavouring Agent
Authors: Patel Anuradha , Tiwari Sanjesh , Pandey Neeraj , Gupta Divya , Prasad Sheo Mohan
Published: December 2021

Plants, principally spices and herbs, have been given much more attention because they are considered important for flavoring and coloring foods and their use as condiments. Herbs and spices have been used for generations by humans as food and also to treat ailments since they are full of medicinal and antioxidant properties and contain bioactive compounds like tannins, alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, polyphenols, and vitamins, which help in healing diseases. Spices and herbs contain biomolecules that play a crucial role in healthcare and fitness levels. Spices and herbs have been considered as esoteric food adjuncts as they play numerous roles like being coloring agents, flavoring agents, preservatives, food additives, and having uses in the medicinal and pharmaceutical industries.
Dietary Fibers and Nutraceuticals in Prevention of Hypertension
Authors: Disouza John Intru , Patil Kiran Shivaji , Kakade Pratik Shailendra , Patravale Vandana Bharat
Published: December 2021

Hypertension is the major cause of mortality amongst many cardiovascular risk factors causing 7.5 million deaths annually. Macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies are very common in general population and have broad-ranging physiological effects in-vivo which lessen inflammatory cascades and vascular reactivity. A recent trend is to perform nutritional epidemiological studies linking overall diet pattern to the lifestyle, examining the link between food and nutrients of diet to risk of chronic diseases. This chapter would deal with pharmacological and pathological basis of hypertension, utilization of dietary fibers, functional foods, nutraceuticals for hypertensive populations as well as to those with increased cardiovascular risks.
Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Damji Ruksar Salim , Chowdhury Shamiha , Hussain Zaib-Un-Nisa Munawar
Published: December 2021

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder which is at present rapidly growing to an alarming epidemic level. Various pathogenic processes are involved in the development of diabetes mellitus. This spectrums from autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells with consequent deficiency of insulin to abnormalities that lead to resistance to the action of insulin. In the 21st century, the astounding rise in obesity, poor diet, and inactive lifestyles have increased the prevalence dramatically. Although several therapies are in use, Western medications are associated with adverse drug reactions and high cost of treatment. Therefore, there is currently a growing interest in herbal medicines to replace or supplement the Western medications. Extensive research is essential to enhance diagnoses, treatment, and to lessen healthcare expenditures. This chapter provides an overview of the classification, diagnosis, symptoms, complications, and economic burden of diabetes mellitus. Additionally, the authors discuss the current and upcoming therapies to treat this metabolic disorder.
Nutraceutical Properties in Flowers
Authors: Bohra Mamta , Visen Amit
Published: December 2021

Flowers are associated with human life since time immemorial. Beside aesthetic beauty, several flowers are used for edible purpose viz., rose, marigold, calendula, hibiscus, hollyhock, carnation, chrysanthemum, nasturtium, lotus, cosmos and pansies etc. These flowers have medicinal as well as nutritional values and are rich source of vitamins, antioxidants and mineral elements. The flowers are enriched with various pigments viz., chlorophyll, flavonoids, xanthophylls, carotenoids, betalains and anthocyanin that are generally used in coloring food, beverage, and textile and paper industries. Edible flowers have anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antimicrobial and antimutagenic properties too. The flowers are used as vegetables and other purpose since time immemorial, however, flowers for supplementary health products is comparatively a new concept and therefore needs further research to utilize flowers as nutraceuticals.
Governance Factors That Influence the Internationalization of Tourism Destinations
Authors: Mira Maria do Rosário Campos , Mónico Lisete S. M. , Breda Zélia Maria Jesus , Valeri Marco
Published: December 2021

The literature is highlighting that research on the internationalization of destinations is scarce. This chapter presents a validation of the governance factors which contribute to the internationalization of tourism destinations. A survey was carried out on Portuguese DMOs with responsibilities in the areas of tourism and local/regional development (N=147). The ‘Questionnaire on Internationalization of Tourist Destinations' was submitted to content, reliability, and construct validations through exploratory and confirmatory second-order factor analysis. Governance factors influencing the internationalization of destinations were F1-Collaboration and F2-Networks. F1 associates items related to stakeholder involvement in destination decisions. F2 highlights the interaction between stakeholders, whose collective action is oriented towards active participation in decisions and leadership. The perception of Portuguese entities with different levels of influence on tourism development allows the systematization of results that meet some priority lines defined in the Tourism Strategy 2027.
Role of Stakeholders and Perceived Destination Competitiveness Towards Ethnic Enclave Destination Management
Authors: Raju Munieleswar , Kunasekaran Puvaneswaran
Published: December 2021

The focus of this research is on the role of stakeholders and perceived destination competitiveness in ethnic enclave destination management. Ethnic enclave destination is one of the unique tourism products in terms of art, culture, heritage, and lifestyle. In Malaysia, Little India, Brickfields is one of the popular Indian enclave destinations significantly contributing to the development of tourism in Malaysia. The perceived destination competitiveness determines the destination attributes, and the destination management is ensured by the stakeholders. However, there are just a few pieces of research that look at the relationship between perceived destination competitiveness and destination management. As a result, this study used an integrated model of TDC to examine the mix of stakeholders and perceived destination competitiveness in Little India, Brickfields. This study will have a significant impact on ethnic enclave destination management by identifying stakeholders and their roles in boosting destination competitiveness at the destination of concern.
Bilingual and Multilingual Education for Deaf Students, Linguistic Minorities
Authors: Alqahtani Abdulaziz
Published: December 2021

This chapter discusses some of the language issues and challenges that deaf and hard of hearing students (DHH) face in the school environment and argues that successful bilingual and multilingual education programs are necessary for DHH students, including professional training in deaf education around of the world. The chapter includes subtitle topics such as the historical development of bilingual education, deaf learners and deaf bilingual education, multilingual and multicultural education. The author concludes the chapter by making recommendations regarding the effectiveness of bilingual and multilingual education for DHH students. The goal is to support educators and professionals in the deaf education field to pay attention to bilingual deaf education through teacher professional development based on the field needs.
Virtual and Augmented Reality Awareness Tools for Universal Design
Authors: Coelho Luis Pinto , Freitas Idalina , Kaminska Dorota Urszula , Queirós Ricardo , Laska-Lesniewicz Anna , Zwolinski Grzegorz , Raposo Rui , Vairinhos Mário , Pereira Elisabeth T. , Haamer Eric , Anbarjafari Gholamreza
Published: December 2021

This chapter will be focused on contributing to the increase of universal design competencies of future engineers, educators, and designers through the use of mixed reality technologies, closing the gap between theory and field application of principles, towards a more inclusive world and promoting health and wellbeing for all. The experience of a situation where limitations arise in relation to what is taken for granted is an important experience that leads to a personal knowledge of the difficulties. By the use of simulators, especially virtual (VR) and mixed reality (MR) technologies, it is possible to create such experiences. Training based on MR can prepare future and current professionals for up-to-date requirements of the labor market. In addition, it can ensure that the standards such as barrier-free concepts, broader accessibility, adaptive and assistive technology will be familiar to trainees.
Application of Virtual/Augmented Reality in Surgical Procedures
Authors: Barrutia Barreto Israel , Del Carpio Delgado Fabrizio , Mamani Jilaja Dometila , Laque Córdova Gino Frank , Seminario Córdova Renzo Antonio
Published: December 2021

This chapter seeks to explore from the reflexivity approach the current state of virtual and augmented technologies in various surgical procedures, analyzing the most relevant technological progress as well as the latest practical applications that have been developed. Bibliographic, documentary, and descriptive were the methodologies of research; the information was collected from various scientific articles from indexed journals and websites, using keywords such as “virtual reality,” “augmented reality,” and “surgical procedure” in search engines. Furthermore, technological progress in various branches that include surgery is explored in this chapter, which is focused on the research and technology application of virtual and augmented reality as well as the challenges.
Application of Virtual Reality in Cognitive Rehabilitation
Authors: Halder Susmita
Published: December 2021

Virtual reality (VR) is defined as a simulation of the real world using computer graphics. The basic components of a VR application or program are interaction and immersion. Human-computer interaction is achieved through multiple sensory channels that allow individuals to explore virtual environments through senses. Immersion is considered the degree to which the individual feels engrossed or enveloped within the virtual environment. Scope of virtual reality is quite wide and varied, including technology, industry, education, and health. In the health sector, it has a significant role in assessment as well as intervention. Specific to human behavior and cognition, virtual reality's (VR) application is for cognitive assessment and rehabilitation. VR offers the potential to develop human testing and training environments that allow for the precise control of complex stimulus presentations in which human cognitive and functional performance can be accurately assessed and rehabilitated.
The Use of Peer Assessment as an Inclusive Learning Strategy in Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Meletiadou Eleni
Published: December 2021

Peer assessment (PA) is one of the most popular forms of alternative assessment currently used in higher education institutions worldwide. In the current study, PA was used as an inclusive assessment tool to enhance students' writing skills and motivation towards writing and learning in general. Forty-two undergraduate students attended an academic writing module for one academic semester. The overall aim was to develop their writing skills taking into consideration their individual differences and ensuring all students had an opportunity to succeed. Students received training in PA and were then involved in reciprocal anonymous PA. Findings indicated that learners improved their writing skills considerably and became more independent learners. Their motivation also increased as they could better understand the assessment criteria. However, they confessed that they needed more training and support and they believed that PA should also be used in other modules and courses to enhance student collaboration and reflection.
Equitable Design and Assessment
Authors: Rhodes Robin L.
Published: December 2021

English academic discourse in U.S. institutions rests on Eurocentric rhetoric where hidden assumptions and expectations may place transnational students at a disadvantage in instruction, assessment, and entrance into communities of practice. The author's empirical research draws on transnational students, faculty, and staff perceptions into linguistically sustaining pedagogy to bring awareness to transnational lived experience and to make recommendations for equitable instruction and assessment. Bakhtin's dialogism and negotiation and the Academic Literacies model provide theoretical frameworks to provide practical recommendations while also examining the negative discourse and deficit-based practices surrounding English learners in American higher education. A discussion of a course redesign highlights possibilities for valuing the transnational student and offering equitable pedagogy while also increasing student investment in language learning.
Adopting the Power of Strengths Based Approaches
Authors: Feng Jennifer
Published: December 2021

People with psychiatric and mental health conditions along with other disabilities have endured a long trajectory of inequalities and missed opportunities that have resulted in less than ideal conditions. This longstanding viewpoint has translated into and affected operations and treatment of students in the special education sector. A central factor that is significantly involved in this pervasive and prevalent issue is the mindset of deficit thinking which states that there is something inherently wrong with students who have exceptionalities. Such mindset leads to misaligned treatment and instruction and exacerbates developmental concerns. Key contributors in deficit thinking in the exceptional education arena involve a variety of methodologies that would benefit from changes in humanistic approaches. This chapter discusses key issues that comprise deficit thinking, principles and values that enhance the experience toward success in exceptional education. Discussion of potential solutions are also explored.
Examining the Deficit Narrative
Authors: Lewis Davion R.
Published: December 2021

This chapter addresses the deficit-laden narratives about Black boys by offering a dramatic alternative, that is, a paradigm shift to recognize and value the funds of knowledge of Black boys, and in doing so, redefine the constructs of success for Black boys. As a starting point, the author contends that researchers, teachers, school and district administrators, and policymakers must unequivocally reject and rebuke current deficit-based narratives about Black boys. These false narratives, which are harmful to Black boys, make it impossible for them ever to find success or be viewed as successful in K-12 education. A critical paradigm was selected as most appropriate. Using the African American Male Theory as well as an Anti-Deficit Framework, this chapter will highlight the funds of knowledge of Black boys to demonstrate counter-stories of their learning and successes, and in doing so, not only rewrite the deficit narratives of Black boys, but also broaden academia's perspective on how we define knowledge and whose knowledge counts.
Authenticity, Religiosity, and Organizational Opportunity
Authors: Sharp Ryan H.
Published: December 2021

A relatively recent emphasis on increased authenticity in the workplace has opened conversations that have previously been considered out-of-bounds within organizational dialogue. With this emphasis has come an invitation for employees to bring their “whole self” to work. An individual's religious beliefs and spiritual inclinations are often at the heart of their so-called true self. Thus, as organizations have encouraged greater authenticity, discussions regarding religiosity and spirituality have followed. While there are some inherent dangers in incorporating religiosity and spirituality into the workplace, the primary purpose of this chapter is to show three natural ways in which these important parts of an individual's identity can be—or already are being—situated into existing and accepted areas of research. Thus, this theoretical piece provides a brief examination of the literature in the fields of positive organizational behavior, meaningful work, and employee engagement and will, in the process, analyze areas of crossover between these and religiosity and spirituality.
The Influence of Religion and Spirituality on Managing Individuals in Organizations
Authors: El Naggar Nehal Fareed , Nasser Jalal
Published: December 2021

Religion is a cornerstone of any society as it affects politics, law, economics, science, and is reflected throughout history in arts and more. In contrast, spirituality is an individual practice with the aim of mindfulness and having a sense of peace and purpose. This research aims to investigate the influence of religion and spirituality on organizational behavior in organizations in Bahrain specifically with regard to managing individuals in Bahrain. A sample of 46 valid responses was reached due to the sensitivity of the topic. Nationality was found to have a statistically significant effect on ‘behavior-based religion'. Principal component analysis found two distinctive factors among the religion values indicators being referred to as ‘behavior-based religion' and ‘belief of religion'.
A implantação da agricultura científica brasileira e a presença do modelo estadunidense (1876–1908).
Authors: Ferraro Mário Roberto , Figueirôa Silvia
Published: December 2021

O objetivo deste artigo é mostrar que a agricultura norte-americana servia de modelo à política agrícola brasileira, e como isso ocorreu. Desde 1850 os americanos se faziam presentes no Brasil vendendo suas máquinas agrícolas. A participação brasileira nas exposições da Filadélfia (1876) e de Chicago (1892) repercutiu positivamente no Brasil e os instrumentos agrícolas norte-americanos lá expostos ganharam grande publicidade aqui. Orville Derby, geólogo, chefe da Comissão Geográfica e Geológica de São Paulo recomendava o modelo norte-americano. Carlos Botelho e João Pedro Cardoso visitaram os Estados Unidos e publicaram na Revista Agrícola relatos amplamente favoráveis à agricultura estadunidense e esse periódico adotou explicitamente o modelo norte-americano.
A recuperação do passado e a escrita da história: os significados históricos do ms. 9-4769 de la Biblioteca de la Real Academia de la Historia de Madrid (c. 1535-1553/1554).
Authors: Vianna Luciano José
Published: December 2021

Neste artigo, analisamos um dos manuscritos da tradição textual do Livro dos Feitos, ou seja, o ms. 9-4769 da Biblioteca de la Real Academia de la Historia de Madrid, o qual apresenta a vida do rei Jaime I de Aragão (1208-1276). Realizamos uma análise do objeto tentando determinar o seu significado histórico, pois o mesmo não apresenta informações sobre o seu lugar, data e autoria de composição. Para isso, utilizamos os estudos de Soldevila, Chenu, Teeuwen, Aurell, Chartier, Bruguera, Briquet e Gumbert. Concluímos que, de acordo com suas características textuais, paleográficas e codicológicas, o manuscrito foi composto em dois momentos.
Aquarela angolana: música e lazer na “Luanda Lusotropical” (1961-1970).
Authors: Alves Amanda Palomo Alves
Published: December 2021

Este artigo aborda um período bastante peculiar na história de Angola. Destacamos que com a eclosão da guerra de libertação, em 1961, o governo português adotou uma série de medidas que objetivavam dirimir as inúmeras críticas internacionais que havia sofrendo e, ao mesmo tempo, enfraquecer a propagação dos movimentos de libertação em suas respectivas colônias. Assinalamos que, naquele período, pressupostos conceituais e ideológicos do lusotropicalismo forneceram a base teórica para várias ações coordenadas pelas autoridades coloniais. Nessa ótica, e objetivando controlar o tempo livre da população negra e mestiça de Angola, ganha projeção a chamada ação psicossocial, empreendimento que pretendia colocar em prática várias ações, entre elas, promover uma agenda cultural e de entretenimento para os que habitavam, principalmente, a capital, Luanda.
Aos touros: a tauromaquia, o processo de modernização e o trânsito do rural ao urbano em Curitiba (1856-1916).
Authors: Melo Victor Andrade de , Do Couto Gomes Leonardo
Published: December 2021

Este estudo objetiva discutir a experiência das touradas organizadas em Curitiba entre 1856 e 1916. O intuito é prospectar a relação desse entretenimento com a circulação de ideias de civilização e progresso na cidade, com seu processo de modernização. O recorte temporal considera a primeira ocorrência identificada da tauromaquia, bem como o momento no qual houve um refluxo da promoção das corridas de touros. Como fontes foram utilizados periódicos publicados na capital paranaense. Ao fim, conclui-se que a prática é um bom indicador das mudanças pelas quais passava a cidade que transitava de uma dinâmica rural para outra urbana.
Da gripe espanhola à COVID-19: uma análise comparativa de epidemias e pandemias do século XX ao XXI.
Authors: Cruz de Souza Christiane Maria
Published: December 2021

Ao longo deste texto, pretende-se apresentar uma análise comparativa de pandemias e epidemias que atingiram a Bahia a partir do século XX, privilegiando-se as pandemias de gripe espanhola e de COVID-19. Objetiva-se ressaltar os pontos de contato entre estas pandemias e epidemias e, por óbvio, os pontos divergentes, considerando-se os diferentes contextos em que as doenças irromperam e se propagaram. As reflexões apresentadas apoiam-se em publicações da autora sobre a gripe espanhola na Bahia, fundamentadas em fontes primárias, na literatura especializada em história da saúde e das doenças, nas notícias veiculadas pela imprensa brasileira no curso da pandemia de COVID-19.
Severe asthma with fungal sensitization
Authors: Prasad Rajendra , Kazmi Syed Ahmed Hussain , Kacker Rishabh , Gupta Nikhil
Published: December 2021

Bronchial asthma is an inflammatory disease of the airways, which may be worsened due to many extrinsic factors. The most common trigger is the continuous exposure to allergens, of which fungal agents are important factors. A new phenotype of asthma called severe asthma with fungal sensitization (SAFS) has been described. It is diagnosed by the presence of severe asthma, fungal sensitization, and absence of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. SAFS is more of a diagnosis of exclusion. Treatment of SAFS initially should be similar to that of severe asthma including humanized anti-IgE monoclonal antibody and other biologics. These patients usually do not have their symptoms relieved with conventional treatment of severe asthma, i.e. high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators. Prolonged use of oral corticosteroids and pulse high-dose intravenous corticosteroid is effective. There are some evidence implicating the role of antifungal agents including itraconazole, but its use as a specific therapy requires further studies.
Relationship between increased serum & synovial fluid decorin levels & knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Ozler Kenan
Published: December 2021

Background & objectives:

Decorin is a proteoglycan that plays a role in the binding of collagen and has an important role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). This study was aimed to determine serum and synovial fluid decorin levels in patients with knee OA and to investigate whether these levels were associated with OA and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) score.

Methods:

In this prospective study 88 participants were included (44 knee OA and 44 with other knee joint diseases) in the study and control groups. Knee function was assessed using the WOMAC score. The serum and synovial fluid decorin levels were analyzed using a human decorin ELISA. Binary logistic regression with a single and multi-categorical predictor was used to determine the possible risk factors for OA.

Results:

The serum decorin levels were significantly higher in the OA group than the control group (P<0.002). The synovial fluid decorin levels were not significantly different between OA and control groups. WOMAC score [odds ratio (OR)=1.073, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.032-1.116, P<0.001] and high serum decorin levels (OR=1.114, 95%CI: 1.030–1.205, P=0.007) were found to be significant in the determination of OA. Serum decorin levels were positively correlated with the WOMAC score in OA.

Interpretation & conclusions:

An increased serum decorin levels may be indicative of changes in extracellular matrix structure. The positive correlation between serum decorin level and WOMAC score supports this result. Increased serum decorin levels and WOMAC score were found to be risk factors associated with OA. However, the decorin level in the joint fluid was not associated with OA.
Role of cytogenetic abnormalities detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization as a prognostic marker
Authors: Shetty Dhanlaxmi , Jain Hemani , Rohil Yogita , Khattry Navin , Sengar Manju , Bagal Bhausaheb , Jain Hasmukh , Gokarn Anant , Punatar Sachin , Avinash Bonda Venkata Naga , Subramanian P.G.
Published: December 2021

Background & objectives:

B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (B-CLL) is one of the most common forms of adult leukaemia, with a highly variable clinical course. Specific chromosomal and genetic aberrations are used clinically to predict prognosis, independent from conventional clinical markers. Molecular cytogenetic methods such as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) detect aberrations in up to 80 per cent B-CLL patients. This study was conducted to score the frequencies of recurrent aberrations, i.e., del(13q14), trisomy 12, del(11q22), del(17p13), del(6q21) and IgH (immunoglobulin heavy chain) translocations and to understand their role in prognostication and risk stratification.

Methods:

FISH studies were performed on bone marrow aspirate or peripheral blood of 280 patients using commercially available disease-specific probe set. The data were correlated with clinical and haematological parameters such as low haemoglobin, splenomegaly and lymphadenopathy.

Results:

Chromosomal aberrations were detected in 79 per cent of patients, with del(13q14) (57%) as the most common cytogenetic aberration, followed by trisomy 12 (27%), del(11q22) (22%), t(14q32) (19%), del(17p13) (18%) and del(6q21) (9%). Single or in coexistence with other aberration del(13q14) had a favourable outcome in comparison to del(11q22), t(14q32), del(17p13) and del(6q21) which were associated with advanced stages of the disease. Trisomy 12 had a variable clinical course.

Interpretation & conclusions:

FISH was found to be a sensitive and efficient technique in detecting the prevalence of recurrent cytogenetic abnormalities. Each of these aberrations is an important independent predictor of disease progression and survival which aids in designing risk-adapted treatment strategies for better disease management.