bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Influencing Effective Knowledge Transfer in Organizations
Authors: Gürcan Ömer Faruk , Gümüşsoy Çiğdem Altın
Published: October 2017

Today, advances in information technology have increased the importance of knowledge day by day. Possessing knowledge and managing knowledge effectively are very important for firms to gain competitive advantage in rapidly changing environment conditions. Knowledge management helps to a firm to achieve its organizational objectives by making the best use of knowledge. It includes many processes. Knowledge transfer as one of the important processes in knowledge management, is defined as the transfer or dissemination of knowledge from one individual, group or organization to another. Effective knowledge transfer has many benefits to the firms. It increases the benefits that firms gain from knowledge. This study examines 11 factors based on literature review. Determining the factors influencing knowledge transfer will lead to a better understanding of the process and these factors can be used in other researches.
Ethics in Knowledge Dissemination
Authors: Saini Damini
Published: October 2017

In the modern socio-economic scenario, knowledge dissemination has turn out to be an essential topic. Effective knowledge dissemination is significant for the organizations as knowledge is shared not only with people working within the organizations but with a long list of stakeholders attached with the organization. Dissemination of knowledge has drawn a wide attention to related ethical considerations, as sometimes information shared in unregulated and subversive ways or unreliable or false information is shared with people. To understand the role of ethics in knowledge dissemination in organizations this chapter provides a discussion of implications of the questions of relevance, predicament and systems of ethical knowledge diffusion. Further the author illustrates distortion of information or knowledge for self-interest, their causes and effects with relevant examples. The chapter identifies the ethics of “informal” and unauthorized transfer of information, and proposes solutions and approach to deal with the problem.
Effective Decision Making for Knowledge Development in Higher Education
Authors: Ololube Nwachukwu Prince , Ingiabuna Erebagha Theophilus , Dudafa Undutimi Johnny
Published: October 2017

Making decisions is the most important task of university leaders or managers and it is often the most difficult task. This chapter offers a step-by-step decision-making procedure for solving complex problems. It outlines the concept of decision-making and processes for both public and private decision-making agendas, using different decision criteria and different types of information. This chapter also describes barriers to effective decision making and decisions that must be made in conditions of certainty and uncertainty. Using a descriptive and suggestive research design, multiple statistical procedures; the results revealed that the types, styles and barrier to decision making processes are significantly related to the poor quality management of higher education in Nigeria? It is therefore imperative that institutional leaders are thoughtful and precise decision makers. This study recommends that the process of decision making ought not to be reactionary, but systematically planned and swift as well as planning for the unanticipated and unintentional situations as they arise.
Cultural Diversity and Its Implications in Online Networked Learning Spaces
Authors: Bozkurt Aras , Yazıcı Müjgan , Aydın İrem Erdem
Published: October 2017

The open nature of online networked spaces enables diverse participation from all around the globe, raising cultural diversity as a paramount issue within the learning perspective. In this context, the purpose of this research is to examine participation and engagement patterns in online networked learning spaces in terms of cultural dimensions. The findings of this research have demonstrated that there is diversity in both time and space. The geographical distribution demonstrates that most of the participation originates from developed, Western, Anglo-Saxon cultures. Diversity in time creates its own loop, in which interactions were fed continuously and terms, such as day and night, sync and async have blurred borders. The English language is dominant over other languages and learners predominantly participate from those countries where English is spoken as a native or official language. In terms of cultural perspectives, the findings indicate that there is cultural dominancy as well as cultural diversity in online networked learning spaces.
Learning, Culture, and Social Media
Authors: Adnan Müge , Gülbahar Yasemin
Published: October 2017

The influence of social media has been most significant in the way that it has transformed our lives and daily practices, especially the younger generation. Social media usage represents a change in social norms such as values and perceptions, and it affects social movements, causing social and political changes. In this virtual communication process, cultural differences, national identity, and gender issues come forth, which can influence local and global communication behaviours within social media. Based on these facts, in this chapter we aim to highlight how virtual culture plays a role in education, within the social learning context of social media. Thus, social networks and social media will be handled within the context of learning: both from a conventional and online perspective. In light of established learning theories, we discuss what is really going on virtually and how cultural differences affect this process and learning outcomes.
A Futurist Approach for Open and Distance 21st Century Learners
Authors: Güneş Aysun , Bozna Harun
Published: October 2017

The future of education is being shaped today. The learners of 21st Century have many options to reach information. Accessing information is not that difficult as that of the past. Today's individuals can readily access meaningful information even from their wearable technologies like smart watches or glasses. A redefinition for education is inevitable in this age of technology and at this point open and distance education is one spearhead compared to face-to-face education. Open and distance learning gives the learners of 21st Century the chance to make use of the technologies of today as well. This chapter aims to draw an outline about the learners of the 21st century, their innate skills, the learning environment they are in and how to benefit from open and distance education in 21st Century.
Creating a Stereotype of a Race as Dangerous, Unintelligent, and Lazy
Authors: Cooke Benson G.
Published: October 2017

The cultural conditioning and the indoctrination of negative stereotypes about racial groups has a long-damaged history in America. Unfortunately, this history continues to keep racial groups divided and missed opportunities to trust one another and grow closer socio-economically, educationally and politically. Individual, institutional and structural racism has kept people in this nation torn and divided socially and psychologically. Understanding the root of this problem requires an honest and open historical and philosophical discussion about the similarities of our human origins before the destructive lies told continue to sustain deep divisions among one group against another. While America was created to support an idea that “all men are created equal”, this has not been a social experience practiced by all men and all women. This chapter examines some of the issues that continue to support the stereotypes of racial differences juxtaposed to our cultural similarities.
An Overview of the Impact of Racial Hate and Its Manifestation of Homegrown Terrorism in America
Authors: Cooke Benson G.
Published: October 2017

Since the 2008 election of the first African American President of the United States, Barack Obama, racial hatred has been on the rise. During the 2016 presidential election, right-wing extremist groups like the Ku Klux Klan and Ultra-Right groups have become more vocal resulting in civil rights organizations like the Southern Poverty Law Center reporting a significant rise in hate crimes and threats. Unfortunately, President Donald Trump helped to stoke the fears of these hate groups with his incendiary campaign rhetoric of hate mostly against immigrants. This chapter provides a historical overview of racial hate and its manifestation of homegrown terrorism in America. Additionally, this chapter examines how hatred and fear became the source of lynching and race riots in America from the 18th to the 21st century. Understanding the past and present history of hatred directed at racial, ethnic and gender groups can help to bring a factual and more truthful point of view that can help reduce the recurrence of homegrown terrorism.
A Model for Mobile Social Media Integration in Constructivist ESL Classrooms
Authors: Yeh Ellen , Swinehart Nicholas
Published: October 2017

Social media, with its ability to create opportunities for interaction, presents a platform for applying technology into social constructivist learning contexts in innovative and meaningful ways. This chapter proposes a model for integrating mobile social media in a content-based ESL curriculum. Newly-arrived international art students were introduced to popular social media platforms and were trained on how to use these tools to conduct research and document their experiences in the field during a summer intensive program. Results are discussed in terms of effects on students' academic English knowledge and abilities, knowledge of local academic and creative cultures, and technology literacy. Finally, limitations and implications for future studies are explored.
Identifying Effective Uses of Mobiles for Encouraging 21st Century Skills
Authors: Deaton Cynthia C. M. , Linder Sandra M. , Deaton Benjamin E.
Published: October 2017

This chapter outlines characteristics of inquiry-oriented projects that blend theories of constructivism with mobile technology. These characteristics capitalize upon 21st Century Skills (P21, 2009) that align with learner-centered instructional practices. We share insights from a multiple case study of four secondary teachers' integration of mobiles to encourage student engagement in 21st century skills and inquiry. These teachers integrated mobiles into inquiry-based lessons to promote student ownership of their learning. Data collection from this study included reflective writings, teacher products and an open-ended question from the Technological and Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) survey (Mishra & Koehler, 2006). Findings indicated that participants consistently encourage their students to engage in 21st Century Skills. Communication, Collaboration, Creativity most common 21st Skills encouraged by the participant as they used mobiles.
Supporting Pre-Service Teachers' Understanding and Use of Mobile Devices
Authors: Maher Damian
Published: October 2017

The use of mobile devices to support learning is increasing in schools and universities. This increase is having an impact on the types of pedagogies that are supporting learning. This chapter explores the use of mobile devices to support pre-service teachers' professional learning. A constructivist framework is used as a critical lens in conjunction with Howland, Jonassen and Marra's (2012) ‘meaningful learning' framework. Additionally, the notions of teacher training about and with mobile learning as described by Baran (2014) are drawn upon to help in understanding the field. The chapter begins with an exploration on-campus learning followed by learning in schools and finally, aspects of on-line learning.
Social Media in Education
Authors: Rezaei Dena F. , Ritter Nicola L.
Published: October 2017

Although social media is prevalent among individual use, instructors and students have not fully embraced social media as tool for the classroom. The focus of the chapter is to identify and identify ways in which social media, as a complementary pedagogical tool to traditional techniques, contributes to create an innovative, collaborative educational environment for students. Different categories and themes, as well as best practices have been identified as the ways of improving students' learning as a result of utilizing social media. Social media helps students in their learning through facilitating active learning, promoting affective learning outcomes, inspiring creativity and innovation, supporting team-based work, and creating a community of learners. Social media enhances professional development and increases performance and grades. Finally, the authors identify best practices for implementing social media in educational setting during the different phases of instructional design process.
Promoting Active and Meaningful Learning for Digital Learners
Authors: Ossiannilsson Ebba
Published: October 2017

This chapter focuses on learners and the transformation of education for UNESCO SDG4 to ensure inclusive, affordable and quality education for all to support lifelong learning, based on access, equity, diversity, and quality. It addresses the current need for open, innovative, and collaborative education. The first theme concerns the next generation of learners, and includes lifelong learning, ethics, inclusion, and modernization of higher education. The second theme focuses on 21st century skills and digital learners. The third theme examines the ways in which learners take the lead in and own their learning, including self-determined learning. The last theme considers models of quality learning for the next generation of learners, as well as learning, and teaching in unbundling scenarios. A model on systemic transformation through a smart framework is also presented.
Optimizing OERs for Optimal ICT Literacy in Higher Education
Authors: Farmer Lesley S. J.
Published: October 2017

Increasingly, faculty realize that the importance of digital resources, not only for textbooks but also other materials that can be accessed online. Of special note are Open Educational Resources (OER). These freely available digital resources may be retained, reused, revised, remixed, and redistributed as set forth by the content's creator's license. A solid ICT literacy foundation provides a broad academic base for their effective access and use. Discipline-specific ICT literacy offers students the opportunity to gain and practice in-depth knowledge and skills within one academic field. The first step in integrating ICT literacy is to examine program and course student outcomes, and then determine how technology tools fit into the kind of learning faculty want students to experience, aligned with learning objective and supported by the institution. OERs can include such technology tools and guidance on how to use them. The chapter will provide examples of ICT-enriched ways to integrate OERs into the curriculum to gain and demonstrate competency, using engineering education as an example.
Creating Spaces for Critical Literacy for Bilingual Learners
Authors: Kim So Jung
Published: October 2017

With heightened emphasis on critical literacy pedagogies, attention to critical literacy for young children (CLYC) has rapidly increased. Yet, there is a paucity of studies examining CLYC in bilingual settings, particularly in Pre-K contexts. Utilizing a qualitative case study design, the current study examined how early critical literacy can be implemented as a medium to help young bilinguals critique texts and develop critical perspectives about race and gender. The study was conducted in a kindergarten classroom at the Korean Language School in a Midwestern city in the US. The data were collected over a semester using multiple collection sources including audio/video recordings, observational field notes, interviews, and children's artifacts. Findings suggest the potential of early critical literacy practices in bilingual contexts to open critical conversations about race and gender with young children. The study also provides teachers with tips on how to create supportive literary environments for young bilingual children.
Differentiating Instruction for Young English Language Learners in the Content Areas
Authors: Lindahl Kristen M.
Published: October 2017

This chapter explores the practice of differentiating instruction for young English Language Learners (ELLs) in the academic content areas. While ELLs are the most rapidly growing demographic in US K-12 public schools, they are also the most diverse, and will thus benefit from dynamic instruction that meets their needs to provide challenge, success, and fit. Based upon earlier applications of differentiated instruction (such as those in Tomlinson, 1999), this chapter proffers four examples of differentiated activities for young ELLs in math, science, social studies, and language arts. It then extends traditional implementation of differentiated instruction to include students' funds of knowledge and their linguistic repertoire, thereby providing teachers of young ELLs more holistic means to extend student engagement with the content and the type of language favored in academic settings.
The Effects of Transitional Bilingual Education vs. Dual Language Immersion on English Language Learners' Reading Assessment Scores
Authors: Colón Vanessa , Szabo Susan , Riley Jacqueline
Published: October 2017

This action research study was completed in a North Texas school district where English language learners comprised 52% of the K-12 student population during the 2015-2016 academic school year. Data from a campus which used a two-way dual language immersion (DLI) program and another campus which used a transitional bilingual education (TBE) program were evaluated. The study analyzed the district's third to fifth grade reading assessment results of 128 students from the DLI campus and 223 from the TBE campus. Researchers compared the scores of students in each program to determine if one bilingual model produced higher scores than another. The results showed that there were greater gains for ELLs in the TBE program at all grade levels (third to fifth). Although the TBE program resulted in higher student scores, limitations make it unclear to what degree the program impacted students' achievement.
Developmentally and Culturally Effective Instructional Strategies for Linguistically and Culturally Diverse Young Children
Authors: Robles-Goodwin Patsy J.
Published: October 2017

The rising numbers of English Learners (ELs) in our schools requires educators to have a specialized knowledge base for understanding their linguistic needs, especially when planning for instruction; teachers also need to use language acquisition principles for working with ELs and integrate effective instructional strategies in their teaching. Studies have found factors affecting student success in public schools: 1) inadequate preparation of teachers, 2) ineffective teaching practices, and 3) at-risk school environments. These complex factors impact the instruction and ultimate success of student learning which is extremely detrimental to ELs. Therefore, the focus of the chapter addresses: the changing demographics, historical reasons for low achievement of ELs, and how educators can use their understanding of best practices to motivate ELs and increase their academic achievement. This chapter provides effective teaching practices for ELs and instructional activities that teachers can implement to help young ELs succeed academically.
Perspectives on English Language Learners
Authors: Almaguer Isela , Whitacre Michael
Published: October 2017

With an increasingly culturally and linguistically diverse school-age student population, there is a need to understand the extent and support needed for English language learners' (ELLs) reading and literacy success, and the scope that these students are provided with equitable and effective reading and literacy instruction as a common classroom pedagogical occurrence to support their reading and literacy development as well as academic achievement. Specifically, ELLs require more interactive and engaging pedagogy that actively involves them in the learning process with many and varied opportunities for academic and linguistic proficiency development. There is an increased emphasis on native language instruction (L1) as a foundation for literacy skill development. Also, several constructivist and student-centered approaches for literacy instruction and strategies for reading should be implemented for English language learners' linguistic and academic success. A classroom scenario sets the platform for culturally responsive teaching and learning through practical and authentic classroom application.
Play-Based Literacy Instruction
Authors: Hersi Afra Ahmed , Bernacki Jessica
Published: October 2017

Too often, young children in kindergarten spend their time on worksheets and paper and pencil tasks, rather than being given developmentally appropriate instruction that incorporates active learning and play. This study explores the relationship between dramatic play and vocabulary development in an urban kindergarten classroom. We report on data from six culturally and linguistically diverse students, who participated in play-based vocabulary instruction. The findings suggest that dramatic play with teacher involvement helped participants' vocabulary gains. The study findings suggest the potential benefit of dramatic play. The authors offer recommendations, and explain challenges and limitations of the study.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Transmembrane Proteins ZDHHC1 and STING Both Act as Direct Adaptors for IRF3 Activation in Teleost
Authors: Xu Xiaowen , Li Meifeng , Wu Zhen , Wang Haizhou , Wang Liqiang , Huang Keyi , Liu Xiancheng , Hou Qunhao , Lin Gang , Hu Chengyu
Published: October 2017

IFN regulatory factor (IRF)3 is a central regulator for IFN-β expression in different types of pathogenic infections. Mammals have various pathogenic sensors that are involved in monitoring pathogen intrusions. These sensors can trigger IRF3-mediated antiviral responses through different pathways. Endoplasmic reticulum–associated proteins stimulator of IFN gene (STING) and zinc finger DHHC-type containing 1 (ZDHHC1) are critical mediators of IRF3 activation in response to viral DNA infections. In this study, grass carp STING and ZDHHC1 were found to have some similar molecular features and subcellular localization, and both were upregulated upon stimulation with polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid, B-DNA, or Z-DNA. Based on these results, we suggest that grass carp STING and ZDHHC1 might possess some properties similar to their mammalian counterparts. Overexpression of ZDHHC1 and STING in Ctenopharyngodon idella kidney cells upregulated IFN expression, whereas knockdown of IRF3 inhibited IFN activation. In addition, coimmunoprecipitation and GST pull-down assays demonstrated that STING and ZDHHC1 can interact separately with IRF3 and promote the dimerization and nuclear translocation of IRF3. Furthermore, we also found that small interfering RNA–mediated knockdown of STING could inhibit the expression of IFN and ZDHHC1 in fish cells. Similarly, knockdown of STING resulted in inhibition of the IFN promoter. In contrast, ZDHHC1 knockdown also inhibited IFN expression but had no apparent effect on STING, which indicates that STING is necessary for IFN activation through ZDHHC1. In conclusion, STING and ZDHHC1 in fish can respond to viral DNA or RNA molecules in cytoplasm, as well as activate IRF3 and, eventually, trigger IFN expression.
Early Stage of Oxidation of Mo3Si by In Situ Environmental Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Gulec A. , Yu X.X. , Taylor M. , Yoon A. , Zuo J.M. , Perepezko J.H. , Marks L.D.
Published: October 2017

Mo-Si-based superalloys are of interest as a new family of high-temperature materials to replace Ni-based alloys. By means of in situ environmental transmission electron microscope, the transient period of the early oxidation of Mo3Si was investigated at the nanometer scale. As a result of a competition between loss of volatile MoO3 and association of SiO2 molecular units into pillars, a nanometer-sized porous SiO2 grows at a very initial stage of the oxidation of Mo3Si.
Mobile measurement of methane emissions from natural gas developments in northeastern British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Atherton Emmaline , Risk David , Fougère Chelsea , Lavoie Martin , Marshall Alex , Werring John , Williams James P. , Minions Christina
Published: October 2017

Abstract. North American leaders recently committed to reducing methane emissions from the oil and gas sector, but information on current emissions from upstream oil and gas developments in Canada are lacking. This study examined the occurrence of methane plumes in an area of unconventional natural gas development in northwestern Canada. In August to September 2015 we completed almost 8000 km of vehicle-based survey campaigns on public roads dissecting oil and gas infrastructure, such as well pads and processing facilities. We surveyed six routes 3–6 times each, which brought us past over 1600 unique well pads and facilities managed by more than 50 different operators. To attribute on-road plumes to oil- and gas-related sources we used gas signatures of residual excess concentrations (anomalies above background) less than 500 m downwind from potential oil and gas emission sources. All results represent emissions greater than our minimum detection limit of 0.59 g s−1 at our average detection distance (319 m). Unlike many other oil and gas developments in the US for which methane measurements have been reported recently, the methane concentrations we measured were close to normal atmospheric levels, except inside natural gas plumes. Roughly 47 % of active wells emitted methane-rich plumes above our minimum detection limit. Multiple sites that pre-date the recent unconventional natural gas development were found to be emitting, and we observed that the majority of these older wells were associated with emissions on all survey repeats. We also observed emissions from gas processing facilities that were highly repeatable. Emission patterns in this area were best explained by infrastructure age and type. Extrapolating our results across all oil and gas infrastructure in the Montney area, we estimate that the emission sources we located (emitting at a rate > 0.59 g s−1) contribute more than 111 800 t of methane annually to the atmosphere. This value exceeds reported bottom-up estimates of 78 000 t of methane for all oil and gas sector sources in British Columbia. Current bottom-up methods for estimating methane emissions do not normally calculate the fraction of emitting oil and gas infrastructure with thorough on-ground measurements. However, this study demonstrates that mobile surveys could provide a more accurate representation of the number of emission sources in an oil and gas development. This study presents the first mobile collection of methane emissions from oil and gas infrastructure in British Columbia, and these results can be used to inform policy development in an era of methane emission reduction efforts.
Flux balance modelling to predict bacterial survival during pulsed activity events
Authors: Jose Nicholas A. , Lau Rebecca , Swenson Tami L. , Klitgord Niels , Garcia-Pichel Ferran , Bowen Benjamin P. , Baran Richard , Northen Trent R.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Desert biological soil crusts (BSCs) are cyanobacteria-dominated, surface soil microbial communities common to plant interspaces in arid environments. The capability to significantly dampen their metabolism allows them to exist for extended periods in a desiccated dormant state that is highly robust to environmental stresses. However, within minutes of wetting, metabolic functions reboot, maximizing activity during infrequent permissive periods. Microcoleus vaginatus, a primary producer within the crust ecosystem and an early colonizer, initiates crust formation by binding particles in the upper layer of soil via exopolysaccharides, making microbial dominated biological soil crusts highly dependent on the viability of this organism. Previous studies have suggested that biopolymers play a central role in the survival of this organism by powering resuscitation, rapidly forming compatible solutes and fuelling metabolic activity in dark, hydrated conditions. To elucidate the mechanism of this phenomenon and provide a basis for future modelling of BSCs, we developed a manually-curated, genome-scale metabolic model of Microcoleus vaginatus (iNJ1153). To validate this model, GC/MS and LC/MS were used to characterize the rate of biopolymer accumulation and depletion in in hydrated Microcoleus vaginatus under light and dark conditions. Constraint-based flux balance analysis showed agreement between model predictions and experimental reaction fluxes. A significant amount of consumed carbon and light energy is invested into storage molecules glycogen and polyphosphate, while β-polyhydroxybutyrate may function as a secondary resource. Pseudo-steady state modelling suggests that glycogen, the primary carbon source with the fastest depletion rate, will be exhausted if M. vaginatus experiences dark wetting events four times longer than light wetting events.
EXTRACTING SPATIOTEMPORAL OBJECTS FROM RASTER DATA TO REPRESENT
PHYSICAL FEATURES AND ANALYZE RELATED PROCESSES
Authors: Zollweg J. A.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Numerous ground-based, airborne, and orbiting platforms provide remotely-sensed data of remarkable spatial resolution at short time intervals. However, this spatiotemporal data is most valuable if it can be processed into information, thereby creating meaning. We live in a world of objects: cars, buildings, farms, etc. On a stormy day, we don’t see millions of cubes of atmosphere; we see a thunderstorm ‘object’. Temporally, we don’t see the properties of those individual cubes changing, we see the thunderstorm as a whole evolving and moving. There is a need to represent the bulky, raw spatiotemporal data from remote sensors as a small number of relevant spatiotemporal objects, thereby matching the human brain’s perception of the world. This presentation reveals an efficient algorithm and system to extract the objects/features from raster-formatted remotely-sensed data. The system makes use of the Python object-oriented programming language, SciPy/NumPy for matrix manipulation and scientific computation, and export/import to the GeoJSON standard geographic object data format. The example presented will show how thunderstorms can be identified and characterized in a spatiotemporal continuum using a Python program to process raster data from NOAA’s High-Resolution Rapid Refresh v2 (HRRRv2) data stream.
In situ observations of infragravity wave directionality at nearshore
coastal sites
Authors: Nose Takehiko , Babanin Alexander , Ewans Kevin
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Infragravity waves is a term used to collectively describe surface gravity waves with periods arbitrarily between 30 and 300 s. In situ observations of infragravity waves at nearshore sites are scarce, and the directionality of the wave field has not received much attention in the past. This paper details a systematic directional analysis of experimental infragravity wave data. Through applying conventional and new directional analysis methods, qualitative and some quantitative characteristics of infragravity wave directions have been resolved. The analysis has found that infragravity waves have a bimodal directional structure with the dominant energy distributed in the propagation sector incident to the coast. It has also been demonstrated that mean infragravity wave directions can be derived, and there is evidence that the directional spreading of infragravity waves is correlated to their wind-generated wave counterparts. Using a numerical model, the qualitative findings were verified; however, contrary to the observations, the dominant direction of the modelled infragravity waves are in the propagation sector outward from the coast. The results provide improved insights into the directionality of infragravity waves, but the disparity between the dominant directions in the model and observations remains to be resolved.
El prólogo y el primer estásimo de Edipo en Colono: un estudio comparativo
Authors: Pérez Lambás Fernando
Published: October 2017

En este trabajo proponemos un análisis del estásimo primero de la tragedia Edipo en Colono de Sófocles a partir de los versos 16 a 18 del prólogo de la misma obra. La comparación entre ambos pasajes puede ser importante en la medida en que el ἄλσος descrito en el prólogo es presentado como un espacio, dramáticamente importante, que se desarrolla poéticamente en el primer estásimo. Ambas descripciones presentan puntos en común que no sólo pueden ayudarnos a entender mejor la naturaleza de este bosque sagrado, sino también evidencian la programación dramática de los susodichos versos prologales.
Juan Antonio López Férez (ed.), Galeno. Lengua, composición literaria, léxico, estilo,
Authors: Esteban Santos Alicia
Published: October 2017

Juan Antonio López Férez (ed.), Galeno. Lengua, composición literaria, léxico,estilo,
Are We Collaborating Yet? Employee Assessment of Peer’s Perceptions
Authors: Heslop Benjamin , Stojanovski Elizabeth , Paul Jonathan , Bailey Kylie
Published: October 2017

Employers rarely utilise their employees’ capacity to assess the collegiality and productivity of their own work unit, yet they are determinants of employee retention and profitability. One reason is the lack of a reliable, valid survey instrument to measure collaboration viability (CoVi), which we postulate is the construct that employees use to implicitly assess their work unit. Inherent weaknesses of own-perception and peer-assessment instruments prevent them reliably measuring CoVi. A novel method overcoming respective deficiencies by combining the strengths of both approaches is proposed that we term peer’s-perception. It is contended that such an instrument may be improved through formulation in accordance with a universal model of collaboration. The model chosen is PILAR as it encapsulates a variety of social and organisational psychology theories. Prospects, involved, liked, agency and respect constitute five Pillars of collaboration (Heslop, Bailey, et al., 2017). Based on this review, we propose a peer’s-perception instrument (Pillar-PP) and that this instrument be formally evaluated.
Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis with Optimized, Fast-Repetition, and Cyclotorsion Control Excimer Laser to Treat Hyperopic Astigmatism with High Cylinder
Authors: Alió del Barrio Jorge L. , Tiveron Mauro , Plaza-Puche Ana B. , Amesty María A. , Casanova Laura , García María J. , Alió Jorge L.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the visual outcomes after femtosecond laser-assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery to correct primary compound hyperopic astigmatism with high cylinder using a fast repetition rate excimer laser platform with optimized aspheric profiles and cyclotorsion control.

Methods

Eyes with primary simple or compound hyperopic astigmatism and a cylinder power ≥3.00 D had uneventful femtosecond laser-assisted LASIK with a fast repetition rate excimer laser ablation, aspheric profiles, and cyclotorsion control. Visual, refractive, and aberrometric results were evaluated at the 3- and 6-month follow-up. The astigmatic outcome was evaluated using the Alpins method and ASSORT software.

Results

This study enrolled 80 eyes at 3 months and 50 eyes at 6 months. The significant reduction in refractive sphere and cylinder 3 and 6 months postoperatively (p<0.01) was associated with an improved uncorrected distance visual acuity (p<0.01). A total of 23.75% required retreatment 3 months after surgery. Efficacy and safety indices at 6 months were 0.90 and 1.00, respectively. At 6 months, 80% of eyes had an SE within ±0.50 D and 96% within ±1.00 D. No significant differences were detected between the third and the sixth postoperative months in refractive parameters. A significant increase in the spherical aberration was detected, but not in coma. The correction index was 0.94 at 3 months.

Conclusions

Laser in situ keratomileusis for primary compound hyperopic astigmatism with high cylinder (>3.00 D) using the latest excimer platforms with cyclotorsion control, fast repetition rate, and optimized aspheric profiles is safe, moderately effective, and predictable.
Aflibercept in the Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema: A Review and Consensus Paper
Authors: Avitabile Teresio , Azzolini Claudio , Bandello Francesco , Boscia Francesco , De Falco Sandro , Fornasari Diego , Lanzetta Paolo , Mastropasqua Leonardo , Midena Edoardo , Ricci Federico , Staurenghi Giovanni , Varano Monica
Published: October 2017

Purpose

To reach a consensus, among experts, on the role of aflibercept in diabetic macular edema (DME) through literature review.

Methods

Two round tables, involving 12 Italian experts, were organized: in the first one, 6 pharmacologic and clinical questions were selected and analyzed by a systematic literature review, using a population, intervention, control, and outcomes framework; in the second one, the nominal group technique was used to discuss relevant evidence related to each question. The consensus was assessed using the 5-point Delphi score.

Results

Agreement on statements was reached on 6/6 questions. The final statements were as follows: 1) High levels of both vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and placental growth factor play an important role in the pathogenesis of DME. 2) The aflibercept pharmacologic profile is notably different from that of other anti-VEGF. 3) Aflibercept significantly improves functional and anatomical outcomes, and rapidly improves best-corrected visual acuity up to its peak; these results remain stable over time. 4) Diabetic macular edema aflibercept treatment requires a 5-monthly injection loading phase. Alternatively, a personalized pro re nata (PRN) regimen based on monthly monitoring and strict retreatment criteria can be used. 5) As an alternative to the bimonthly fixed regimen, in the maintenance phase the treatment schedule may be a PRN regimen with strict retreatment criteria or a treat and extend regimen. 6) No concerns on aflibercept ocular and systemic safety emerged from the literature.

Conclusions

Consensus was reached among experts on how to best treat patients with DME with aflibercept.
Comparison of adjustable sutures versus nonadjustable sutures in intermittent exotropia
Authors: Kamlesh  , Babu Suresh , Goel Yashpal , Chaudhary Rupak Brahma , Rastogi Anju , Agarwal Richa , Dhiman Shweta , Kumar Prateek , Bharadwaj Ankita
Published: October 2017

Purpose:

To compare adjustable sutures versus nonadjustable sutures for intermittent exotropia.

Methods:

In this randomized prospective interventional study, 40 adult patients with intermittent exotropia were randomly divided into 2 equal groups. Both groups underwent bilateral lateral rectus recession. In group A, adjustable suture recession was performed, and in group B, nonadjustable suture recession was performed. Patients were followed up for 6 months and outcome measures were residual deviation, binocular status, and need for resurgery.

Results:

Success was defined as alignment of 2 eyes <10 prism diopters (PD) of deviation at the end of 12 weeks. Need for resurgery in a 12-week follow-up period was considered to be failure. At the end of the study, 90% of the patients in group A and 85% of the patients were within 10 prism diopters of orthophoria (p = 0.316). At the end of 6 months, mean deviation in group A was 6.20 PD and in group B it was 5.60 PD (p = 0.31). No patient underwent resurgery.

Conclusions:

Adjustable hang-back recession has no definite added advantage over nonadjustable hang-back recession in intermittent exotropia.
Hyaluronidase injection for improved tissue dissection in Baerveldt tube surgery
Authors: Zahavi Alon , Grigg John R.
Published: October 2017

Purpose:

To describe a novel technique for tissue dissection during Baerveldt tube surgery.

Methods:

We present a technique for posterior dissection of conjunctiva and Tenon tissue for the placement of a glaucoma drainage device. Hyaluronidase is used in the early stages of surgery in order to minimize tissue trauma and facilitate easy dissection even through existing adhesions and conjunctival scarring.

Results:

The technique facilitates convenient dissection through tissues. We did not experience any intraoperative or postoperative complications.

Conclusions:

The described technique has substantial advantages for Baerveldt tube surgery, specifically in cases of previous ocular surgery and subsequent conjunctival scarring. It is safe and easy to perform, and should be considered in cases of glaucoma drainage device implantation surgeries.
Effect of sleeved ceramic femoral heads on titanium ion release
Authors: Deny Anthony , Barry Janie , Hutt Jonathan R.B. , Lavigne Martin , Massé Vincent , Vendittoli Pascal-André
Published: October 2017

Introduction:

Metal ion release from wear and corrosion at the femoral head-stem taper junction can evoke local adverse reactions to metal debris (ARMD). In a specific large-diameter head (LDH) total hip arthroplasty (THA) system, ceramic femoral heads of 44 to 48 mm are available with a titanium (Ti) adaptor sleeve, while heads of 36- to 40-mm come without sleeves. The hypothesis of this study is that the Ti adaptor sleeve with LDH ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) bearings will not cause wear or corrosion at the taper junction and, thus, will not generate high whole blood Ti ion levels.

Methods:

We compared whole blood Ti levels at minimum 1-year follow-up in 27 patients with unilateral primary LDH CoC THA with head sizes ranging from 36 to 48 mm using a Ti stem and acetabular component.

Results:

Although Ti ion levels in patients with 36- to 40-mm head diameters without Ti sleeve were found to be statistically significantly higher (2.3 μg/l: 1.6-3.1, SD 0.44) compared to those with a Ti sleeve (1.9 μg/l: 1.6-2.2, SD 0.19) (p = 0.020), the found difference has no clinical importance. No patients presented clinical signs of ARMD, and the clinical results in both groups were similar.

Conclusions:

LDH CoC THA Ti levels were low and probably related to unavoidable passive corrosion of implant surfaces. Measurement of Ti in subjects with ceramic LDH, with or without Ti adaptor sleeve, did not disclose undirected signs of trunnionosis.
Is a short stem suitable for patients with hip dysplasia? A report on technical problems encountered during femoral reconstruction
Authors: Buttaro Martin A. , Slullitel Pablo A. , Zanotti Gerardo , Comba Fernando M. , Piccaluga Francisco
Published: October 2017

Introduction:

A wide variety of stems have been used for the treatment of osteoarthritis secondary to advanced hip dysplasia. Since evidence for using short stems in dysplastic hips is limited, we planned to analyse the technical problems encountered when reconstructing the proximal femur of patients with osteoarthritis secondary to congenital dysplasia of the hip treated with total hip arthroplasty (THA) using a type 2B short stem.

Methods:

We prospectively analysed 17 patients (22 hips) treated with primary THA performed with a single-branded short uncemented stem with metaphyseal fixation (MiniHip™; Corin). We excluded cases in which other type of stems were used, or in which retrospective data was only available. Mean follow-up was 41.22 months (minimum 24). We analysed clinical outcome using the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and pain using the visual analogue scale (VAS). Radiographs were examined in order to determine causes of complications and revision surgery.

Results:

All patients showed statistically significant improvement when preoperative and postoperative values for mHHS (54.19 vs. 94.57; p = 0.0001) and for pain VAS (8.71 vs. 0.71; p = 0.0003) were compared. No cases of thigh pain, instability or infection were found. 1 case of acetabular cup loosening and 1 case of periprosthetic fracture were diagnosed at 8 months and 45 days, respectively. Overall survival was 84.7% at 5 years (CI 95%, 64.4-105.3) with revision for any reason as an end point. When stem performance was separately evaluated, it showed a survival rate of 100% at 5 years with revision for aseptic loosening as an end point.

Conclusions:

THA with a type 2B short stem for the treatment of dysplastic osteoarthritis showed very few technical intraoperative problems, being a useful alternative for femoral reconstruction.
Evaluation of late redislocation in patients who underwent open reduction and pelvic osteotomy as treament for developmental dysplasia of the hip
Authors: Tuhanioğlu Ümit , Cicek Hakan , Ogur Hasan U , Seyfettinoglu Firat , Kapukaya Ahmet
Published: October 2017

Introduction:

The goal in the treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is to achieve a stable and concentric reduction and to create a congruent relationship between the femoral head and the acetabulum. This study discusses the causes of loss of reduction in DDH patients who had a concentrically reduced hip at the time of removal of the hip spica cast and cessation of brace use and who later appeared with hip redislocation after mobilisation and ambulation. In addition, the possible interventions in such cases are also discussed.

Material and method:

A retrospective evaluation was made of 13 patients diagnosed with DDH who developed redislocation following primary surgery. 6 of them had undergone the 1st surgery in our department between 2008 and 2016 and 7 had udergone surgery in another centre. For comparison reasons a 2nd group was formed of 13 demographically and clinically matched patients who had no loss of reduction. The groups were compared in terms of acetabular index, pelvic length, pelvic width, abduction degree of plaster, ossifying nucleus diameter, acetabular depth, and acetabular volume parameters.

Results:

The average age of the patients was 23 months at initial surgery and 29 months at the time of revision surgery. No significant difference was found between the groups in terms of acetabular inclination angle, ossifying nucleus diameter, pelvic size, pelvic width, centre edge angle, acetabular volume, and depth. Contracted inferomedial capsule was found in 1 patient who underwent revision surgery and intact transverse acetabular ligament was seen in 1 patient. The loss of reduction in the remaining 11 patients was associated with high total anteversion of the femoral head and acetabulum.

Conclusions:

Correction of increased combined anteversion by femoral osteotomy can create a safe zone in terms of redislocation and can significantly contribute to the stability provided by capsulorrhaphy and pelvic osteotomy.