bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymmetric impact of groundwater use on groundwater droughts
Authors: Wendt Doris E. , Van Loon Anne F. , Bloomfield John P. , Hannah David M.
Published: October 2020

Abstract. Groundwater use affects groundwater storage continuously as the removal of water changes both short-term and long-term groundwater level
variation. This has implications for groundwater droughts, i.e. a below-normal groundwater level. The impact of groundwater use on groundwater droughts, however, remains unknown. Hence, the aim of this study is to investigate the impact of groundwater use on groundwater droughts in the absence of actual abstraction data. We present a methodological framework that consists of two approaches. The first approach compared groundwater droughts at monitoring sites that are potentially influenced by abstraction to groundwater droughts at sites that are known to be
near natural. Observed groundwater droughts were compared in terms of drought occurrence, duration, and magnitude. The second approach investigated
long-term trends in groundwater levels in all monitoring wells. This framework was applied to a case study of the UK, using four regional water
management units in which groundwater levels are monitored and abstractions are licensed. Results show two asymmetric responses in groundwater
drought characteristics due to groundwater use. The first response is an increase in shorter drought events and is found in three water management
units where long-term annual average groundwater abstractions are smaller than recharge. The second response, observed in one water management unit
where groundwater abstractions temporarily exceeded recharge, is a lengthening and intensification of groundwater droughts. Analysis of long-term
(1984–2014) trends in groundwater levels shows mixed but generally positive trends, while trends in precipitation and potential evapotranspiration
are not significant. The overall rising groundwater levels are consistent with changes in water use regulations and with a general reduction in
abstractions during the period of investigation. We summarised our results in a conceptual typology that illustrates the asymmetric impact of
groundwater use on groundwater drought occurrence, duration, and magnitude. The long-term balance between groundwater abstraction and recharge plays
an important role in this asymmetric impact, which highlights the relation between short-term and long-term sustainable groundwater use.
Review of different methods and techniques used for flood vulnerability analysis
Authors: Kumar Dilip , Bhattacharjya Rajib Kumar
Published: October 2020

Abstract. Assessment of vulnerability is the primary objective of ﬂood hazard management. One of the most signiﬁcant purposes of ﬂood vulnerability appraisal is to make a precise relationship between the theoretical conceptions of ﬂood vulnerability and the ground level management policies. A variety of approaches have been defined by many researchers to evaluate vulnerability. As such, the selection of the most suitable methodology is essential for policymakers to adequate mitigation policies. The purpose of the present study is to review all the vulnerability methods floating over the research universe and compare their beneﬁts and drawbacks. This study evaluated more than 250 selected articles related to the assessment of vulnerability published between 1980 and 2020 to determine their competence in the estimation of flood vulnerability. The findings show that most of the research works are related to statistical methods, and the methods used to allocate weight to different indicators associate to the vulnerability. Moreover, most of the vulnerability assessment methods are centred around the single type of hazard, i.e., flood, drought, etc. As such, the results recommend the necessity for developing a new integrated vulnerability assessment framework applicable to worldwide considering multiple risks.
Panel Discussion: Some Futures for Cultural StudiesWith contributions from Liz Ferrier, John Banks, Susan Luckman, Graeme Turner
Authors: Discussion Panel
Published: October 2020

Conducted in the Department of English, University of Queensland, 29 Oct. 99

Instead of the usual lead essay, for this issue we organised a panel on the future of Cultural Studies, to enable a consideration of our disciplinary home in our physical one -- the Department of English, University of Queensland. The participants were all members of the Department -- John Banks, Dr Liz Ferrier, Susan Luckman and Professor Graeme Turner. They were chosen to represent both staff and postgraduate students within that part of the Department that bases its work on Cultural Studies. The large audience we drew for the event testifies -- as does the success of M/C itself -- to the interest in the area.
The participants were asked not to read from prepared papers, but instead to present more informally their personal views of how to consider the future of our discipline. Some of the panellists took up a suggestion that they develop ideas arising from a recent piece of work, of their own or others, which might indicate future directions for the field. Although there is no direct reference here, all of the participants had been asked to read the 13.1 Continuum Editorial (April 1999).
Click on for the panellists' speeches...

Liz Ferrier -- audio

Susan Luckman -- audio

John Banks -- audio

Graeme Turner -- audio

(The audio recordings of the panellists' speeches require the RealAudio player.)

Citation reference for this article
MLA style:

Liz Ferrier, John Banks, Susan Luckman, and Graeme Turner. "Some Futures for Cultural Studies." Panel discussion. M/C: A Journal of Media and Culture 2.9 (2000). [your date of access] .

Chicago style:

Liz Ferrier, John Banks, Susan Luckman, and Graeme Turner, "Some Futures for Cultural Studies," panel discussion, M/C: A Journal of Media and Culture 2, no. 9 (2000),  ([your date of access]).

APA style:

Liz Ferrier, John Banks, Susan Luckman, and Graeme Turner. (2000) Some futures for cultural studies. Panel discussion. M/C: A Journal of Media and Culture 2(9).  ([your date of access]).
The Triton
Authors: Hoopmann Sandra
Published: October 2020

It was only a shell…a triton… And it held magic for a deaf girl of eight.   Held to her ears, she could hear the sea,     The rolling roar of waves on the shore,       The ebb and flow of tide,         Pebbles on silver sand.           Seagulls reeling and swooping.             The salt spray and soft sunset on wet sand.   I have a deaf grandmother soft, gentle, radiant,   Blue eyes alight with sparkling laughter,     Rosy cheeks and a ready smile.      Her eyes so full of love of life,        So eager to explore         And show a deaf girl of eight          Her world of magic on a warm, sunlit verandah            And a triton in her hand.   “Look!  Listen!  Hear the sea, Sandra,    It’s in the shell!”      And the deaf girl held the shell in wonder,       Grandmother and grandchild, together in wonder.         A special memory locked in time,               Indelibly etched in my mind.
Freedom Poems
Authors: Takara Kathryn Waddell
Published: October 2020

Angela Davis

I heard Angela was coming

to Honolulu

Black History Month

people still struggling

globally

El Niño season

Afghanistan, Pakistan

Iraq, Iran,

red alert

people hurt

in prison

unconscious

injustice

still around.

I heard Angela was coming

to Honolulu

a real event

like Miles & his red trumpet

Sweet Honey in the Rock

even Maya Angelou

representing

conflict & transformations.

People fear real events

like indigenous struggles

while all around

the stock market bucking

like an angry bull

affirmative action

slipping away

ebonics a clever diversion

while real events are shadowed.

I heard we were connected

Alabama

Massachusetts

California

Hawaii

mutual friends

I dreamed she came again to Hawaii

before her dreads

we walked together

on the beach at Kualoa.

After the Marin County, George Jackson

fiasco

She came before

when she still wore an Afro

fitted jeans

high black pumps

talking revolutionising thought.

I heard she would be visiting

So folk over here be working real hard

to raise the fees

and share some soulful aloha.

And so I hope the vine is pumping

and Angela is coming

to share a space in time.

Mumia Abu Jamal

Knight for Justice

Knight of Justice,

Political prisoner.

We watch your tragic drama

like waiting for a tsunami

generated by the quake of your daring

to challenge

like a race of people

pounding at the black cliffs

on a group of volcanic islands

in the Pacific.

The spirit of the wind

     hoodoos the trees—

                      Transcendent revenge.

Citation reference for this article

MLA Style

Waddell Takara, Kathryn. "Freedom Poems." M/C Journal 9.4 (2006). echo date('d M. Y'); ?> .
APA Style

Waddell Takara, K. (Sep. 2006) "Freedom Poems," M/C Journal, 9(4). Retrieved echo date('d M. Y'); ?> from .
Psicoterapia Centrada en el Sentido: Una revisión acerca de estrategias psicoterapéuticas para el tratamiento del paciente con cáncer
Authors: Bueno Bejarano Vale de Medeiros Angélica Yolanda , Ramos Pereira Eliane , Andrade Silva Rose Mary Costa Rosa , Nencetti Pereira Rocha Renata Carla
Published: October 2020

Objetivo: presentar las estrategias psicoterapéuticas utilizadas en el tratamiento de pacientes con cáncer, cuya finalidad sea trabajar el sentido de la vida. Método: Se realizó una revisión sistemática inscrita en el registro PROSPERO con el número CRD42019132385, siguiendo el método PRISMA, en las bases Lilacs, Medline, Scopus y Web of Science. Resultados: Se incluyeron 11 artículos publicados entre 2014 y 2020. La Psicoterapia Centrada en el Sentido (PCS) es la estrategia psicoterapéutica más utilizada y efectiva para ayudar al paciente acerca de su sentido de la vida. Discusión: Se desarrollaron tres categorías: 1. Encontrando el sentido de la vida por medio de la PCS; 2. Bienestar espiritual y psicológico de la PCS y 3. Terapias individuales, grupales y de pareja como estrategias eficaces de la PCS. Conclusiones: Este estudio señala que la PCS, además de ser beneficioso para los pacientes, puede servir como una alternativa de trabajo para el psicólogo principalmente en regiones de habla portuguesa donde no se encontraron estudios.
Las personas trabajadoras del cuidado de niñas y niños en casa hogar de México
Authors: Hernández Romero Yasmín , Rodríguez García Claudia , Vargas Santillán Maria De Lourdes
Published: October 2020

El propósito del artículo fue explorar la condición laboral de los encargados del trabajo de cuidados de niñas y niños en casas hogar de México. Para ello se realizó una investigación de carácter documental. Como referente, se tomó el Censo de Alojamiento de Asistencia Social, realizado en el 2015; así como información provista por el Consejo Nacional de Normalización y Certificación de Competencias Laborales, respecto a la certificación en el estándar de competencia EC0934 Atención de niñas, niños y adolescentes en establecimientos de asistencia social. La indagación permitió dar cuenta de distintos tipos de cuidadores, de un incipiente reconocimiento de esta actividad y de posibles líneas de investigación.
Challenges to Achieving a Successful Hospitality Internship Program in Malaysian Public Universities
Authors: Mohamad Siti Fatimah , Ezyan Soffi Muhammad Nazreen , Che Ishak Farah Adibah
Published: October 2020

Researchers have recognized the benefits and importance of having successful internship programs for all relevant stakeholders; students, universities and employers. Despite these significances, internship is found to be provocative as previous studies revealed the challenges perceived by undergraduates and employers. Nonetheless, researchers underlook the challenges perceived by internship coordinators in terms of placement, assessment and cooperation given by undergraduates and employers. Hence, the purpose of this study was to explore the challenges to achieving a successful internship program in the hospitality industry. The findings derived from seven internship coordinators in public universities that offered hospitality degree programs throughout Malaysia. The data obtained from semi-structured interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Seven themes were extracted as the challenges of this study, namely: 1) attitude, 2) constraint, 3) manipulation, 4) placement, 5) sexual harassment, 6) expectation, and 7) student preparedness. The findings of this study are expected to give insights to all relevant stakeholders, in terms of improvement and strategies needed in designing an internship program, particularly in the hospitality industry. Besides, it is anticipated to guide internship coordinators and students to well-prepare for the expected difficulties that they might experience while coordinating and undergoing the internship process.
Dimensionamento Otimizado De Pilares-Parede
Authors: Alves Elcio Cassimiro , Dos Santos Souza Paula Mayer
Published: October 2020

A estabilidade global de uma edificação alta é usualmente garantida por estruturas de contraventamento, tais como pilares-parede retangulares ou em “U”. Dessa forma, este artigo objetiva realizar o dimensionamento otimizado de pilares-parede a partir das solicitações existentes e em acordo com as prescrições normativas. Será utilizado um programa computacional desenvolvido na plataforma Matlab para obtenção da solução otimizada, a qual é calculada por meio do Método dos Pontos Interiores. Serão analisados dois exemplos, um referente à seção retangular e outro à seção em “U”. O dimensionamento de ambos envolverá dois métodos, o tradicional e o da decomposição em faixas, de modo a comparar as áreas de aço otimizadas. Em seguida, pretende-se otimizar a resistência característica do concreto à compressão ( ) de cada uma das seções a fim de verificar a economia resultante dessa otimização.
Investigação experimental física da influência de entalhes na resistência ao cisalhamento de vigas de madeira
Authors: Baú Carneiro Ana Flávia , Penner Elisabeth , Perretto Felipe , Scremim Cristofer Bernardi
Published: October 2020

A madeira é atualmente considerada uma alternativa ecológica a materiais que provocam danos ambientais severos, sendo cada vez mais utilizada. Entretanto, sua heterogeneidade e anisotropia fazem com que suas propriedades físicas e mecânicas sejam diferentes em todas as direções, o que deve ser considerado nos dimensionamentos. A NBR 7190/97 recomenda que o valor de resistência ao cisalhamento deve ser tomado na direção paralela às fibras, o que pode sugerir um superdimensionamento das peças. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo investigar a resistência ao cisalhamento perpendicular às fibras em vigas entalhadas submetidas à flexão simples reta e verificar se as dimensões mínimas exigidas pela norma para a execução de entalhes podem ser modificadas. Foram ensaiadas vigas das espécies Eucalyptus salignae Araucaria angustifoliacom entalhes do tipo reto e misulado. As peças entalhadas foram submetidas ao cisalhamento, incluindo os apoios das vigas já ensaiadas, para comparação das resistências obtidas nas duas situações. Observou-se o fendilhamento esperado na quina do entalhe, bem como a ruptura ao cisalhamento no plano horizontal, apesar da solicitação no plano vertical. Esse resultado confirma que a resistência ao cisalhamento na direção paralela às fibras é preponderante em qualquer situação de solicitação e os critérios da NBR 7190/97 não carecem de modificação.
Methodology for the assessment of the damage cost resulting from a large earthquake in the vicinity of Wellington
Authors: Birss G. R.
Published: October 2020

At the request of the Earthquake and War Damage Commission, the New Zealand National Society for Earthquake Engineering set up a study group to determine the maximum probable loss the Commission may suffer by way of claims resulting from a large earthquake with its epicentre near Wellington. The study group's task was to determine the order of cost of physical damage to buildings and their contents which could credibly be expected to result from large earthquake attack. Seismic loss information for New Zealand conditions is minimal and it was therefore necessary to critically review published overseas data. Where appropriate, adjustments were made to accommodate New Zealand conditions. Loss information was compiled as the ratio of damage cost to building value and varied with felt earthquake intensity as well as with type of building construction. The total value and structural classification of the building stock in the affected area was compiled and entered on a computer. A program was set up to enable loss calculations to be carried out for the appropriate building classification and for the relevant earthquake intensities. From this the total loss was calculated. The results of the study expressed as monetary loss are confidential to the Earthquake and War Damage Commission. In this paper, therefore, results are not presented in absolute dollar terms, but are given as relative values.
The Scope of Donor-Conceived Person’s Right to Access Information about the Gamete Donor in Europe – A Comparative Review
Authors: Lukasiewicz Rafal
Published: October 2020

Legal regulations concerning infertility treatment differ among European jurisdictions. Broadly speaking, three types of gamete donation are distinguished – anonymous donation, identifiable donation, and known donation. However, using only these terms during a debate on international standard of gamete donation is a significant simplification. Even in those jurisdictions in which the same model of gamete donation occurs, the scope of information about a donor that is accessible for a child differs. Moreover, in some jurisdictions, the law permits donors and recipients to choose between two or more types of gamete donation. This paper therefore analyses the extent to which the donor’s data is accessible to a donor-conceived person within these different regimes. It argues that a balanced international standard for data exchange concerning gamete donation could be acceptable for all European countries. This paper concludes that it would be a positive first step to harmonise legal framework of gamete donation in Europe to reach a position that would be acceptable for countries in which donor’s anonymity is protected, as well as in countries in which the donor’s identity is always open for a donor conceived-person.
Forest Management Meeting the Requirements for Sustainable Development in Vietnam
Authors: Hien Phung Van , Ly Phung Khanh
Published: October 2020

The state uses legal tools to manage forest resources, as forests play a particularly important role in human survival and development. This paper focuses on forest management meeting the requirements for sustainable development in Vietnam. By using two main research methods: documental analysis method and secondary data analysis, we have clarified the current situation of the forest management meeting the requirements for sustainable development in Vietnam in recent years. In addition, we point out the actual situation of Vietnam's forest resources. On that basis, we give some recommendations for forest management meeting the requirements for sustainable development in Vietnam in the coming time.
Epitomising Public Sector Management of Public Private Partnerships: A Trajectory of Good Governance
Authors: Mugarura Jude Thaddeo , Ndevu Zwelinzima
Published: October 2020

While research and policy documents seem to equate public private partnerships (PPPs) to a “marriage made in heaven”, globally they have had flimsy impact on public service delivery. Such seem to be caused by myopic governance emanating from scattered PPP governance literature, lack of a clear PPP good governance overview, as well as overemphasis of PPP financing over the wider PPP governance aspects. Using scholarly documents through content analysis, this study therefore intended to identify and examine the elements of a PPP governance system, and thereafter provide strategies of enforcing good governance practices for PPPs to serve their intended purpose. Findings indicate that PPP principles, critical success factors, stakeholder and risk management, and management of PPP maturity trends, make up a PPP good governance system. Finally, for each of the findings established, the study proposes appropriate good governance practices for sustainable PPP interventions.
Restraint as a Source of Judicial ‘Apoliticality’
Authors: Helmich Maurits
Published: October 2020

Restraint as a Source of Judicial ‘Apoliticality’: A Functional Reconstruction

Few legal theorists today would argue that the domain of law exists in isolation from other normative spheres governing society, notably from the domain of ‘politics’. Nevertheless, the implicit norm that judges should not act ‘politically’ remains influential and widespread in the debates surrounding controversial court cases. This article aims to square these two observations. Taking the Miller v. Secretary of State and Urgenda cases as illustrative case studies, the article demonstrates that what it means for judges to adjudicate cases ‘apolitically’ is itself a matter of controversy. In reflecting on their own constitutional role, courts are forced to take a stance on substantive questions of political philosophy. Nevertheless, that does not mean that the ‘norm of judicial apoliticality’ should therefore be rejected. The norm’s coherence lies in its intersocial function: its role in declaring certain modes of judicial interpretation and intervention legitimate (‘legal’/‘judicial’) or illegitimate (‘political’).
Here we went
Authors:   Crossref, Stark Jon , Bowman Sara
Published: October 2020

There are many variations of passages of Lorem Ipsum available, but the majority have suffered alteration in some form, by injected humour, or randomised words which don't look even slightly believable. If you are going to use a passage of Lorem Ipsum, you need to be sure there isn't anything embarrassing hidden in the middle of text. All the Lorem Ipsum generators on the Internet tend to repeat predefined chunks as necessary, making this the first true generator on the Internet. It uses a dictionary of over 200 Latin words, combined with a handful of model sentence structures, to generate Lorem Ipsum which looks reasonable. The generated Lorem Ipsum is therefore always free from repetition, injected humour, or non-characteristic words etc.
The Macro Economic Factors affecting Property Prices in Malta
Authors: Vella Luke
Published: October 2020

Property prices have been on top of European governments’ agenda for
decades as their contribution towards the whole economic system is imperative.
Property prices in Malta have been on an upward trend and, lately, the upward trend
has been larger than in previous years. Even though this is a sign of a strong and
growing economy, it can have implications on residents due to affordability issues
affecting their standard of living. This study seeks to determine the factors which
have an influence on property price in Malta whilst also analysing the strength of
the relationship each factor holds on house prices. This study examines the Gross
Domestic Product, unemployment rate, population, inflation, the number of home
loans within the Maltese economy, ageing population, the number of tourists, minimum
wage, and development permits. Out of these nine variables tested, eight proved to
be statistically significant. The variables which had the largest effect on house prices
was the unemployment rate whilst the variable with the least effect on house prices
was inflation.
Performance Analysis of Ageing Domestic Water Meters with Respect to Apparent Losses: A Case Study
Authors: Camilleri Christian , Pace Luke , Rizzo Alex
Published: October 2020

In water distribution networks, a substantial amount of Apparent Losses result from water-meter errors. This study aims to evaluate water-meter under-registration, specifically the effect of ageing on the meter measurement errors, controlled at different flow-rates. The study was initiated by establishing a holistic methodology highlighting the planning process and meter-testing procedure. The results achieved show that the metrological percentage meter error is highly pronounced at low flow-rates. In the case of medium to high flow-rates for one-year, three-year, and five-year-old class of meters, meter errors were not statistically significant. However, an opposite outcome for the same flow-rates resulted for the seven-year class meter.
The Broken Rainbow: Same-Sex Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Farrugia Kirsty , Abela Beverly
Published: October 2020

This paper focuses on same-sex intimate partner violence (SSIPV), the effects on the victim within a same-sex relationship, the services available locally for LGB victims, and the barriers encountered by the victims within the services. It explores whether the services offering aid to lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) victims of same-sex intimate partner relationships are effective, since locally there is not a service that offers specific SSIPV support yet. It inquires if the services are gay-affirmative by implementing gay-affirmative strategies, policies, and procedures. It aims to create awareness that same-sex intimate partner violence takes place so as to break the silence in relation to this matter locally. The paper also outlines the importance of having both LGBTIQ services and DV services for the victims to turn to, services they feel comfortable with and can disclose to.
The Impact of Lecturers’ Emotional Intelligence on Students
Authors: Bonnici Josette , Aquilina Ronald
Published: October 2020

This paper examines how Lecturers’ Emotional Intelligence (EI) can have a positive impact on students’ lifes, both within the classroom and on the place of work. This research uses a grounded theory method as the findings are grounded in the data obtained from the participants. Through in-depth interviews and an interpretivist approach carried out with 4 lecturers working within an Institute at MCAST, the researcher explores and assesses the staff’s perception of the importance of EI at the place of work, EI in the role of the lecturer, and EI in building trust between employees and students. It is hoped that the patterns that emerge from this research may be of benefit to both lecturers and students. This study provides a framework where lecturers may manage their students more effectively as disturbing emotions and impulses can be controlled, thus leading to more effective lesson delivery time. Moreover, EI may lead to further motivation to both staff and students. Consequently, more student retention and willingness to learn may lead to self-development and growth into the human beings’ personal development.
From Learning to Assessment. Utilizing Blockchain Technologies in Gaming Environments to Secure Learning Outcomes and Test Results
Authors: Black Michael , Donelan Lloyd , Higgins Trevor , Koenig Nikolaus , Lenzen Brenton , Lenzen Brenton , Muniz Nick , Patel Kishan , Pfeiffer Alexander , Taylan Aksel , Thomas Andre , Wernbacher Thomas
Published: October 2020

This study, pursues the following three goals, namely the introduction and discussion regarding Blockchain technologies in education in general and serious games in particular; a definition and proposal of a category system for digital games with the aim not only to teach but also to assess; and a description of the serious game Gallery Defender, one of the very first games which maps grades/certificates for the player/learner as well as further information for the teacher on Blockchain. This game is currently in the middle of an iterative design process and the authors describe the used Blockchain approach of the first iteration of the game to inspire further developments in this direction, especially for the Maltese audience, as Malta is perceived as the leading EU country in the field of Blockchain regulation.
Measuring the Loss of Arable and Rural Lands on the Maltese Islands through Satellite Images
Authors: Zerafa Steve
Published: October 2020

The Maltese Islands went through a rapid urban growth and increase in population. Such trends normally contribute to the loss of agricultural land, trees, soil and rural land. Urban growth is often responsible for a variety of urban environmental issues: Decreased air quality, increased runoff and subsequent water flooding, increased local temperature, losses of agricultural land and deterioration of water table.
During such times, it is crucial to monitor the use of land resources, understand the changes of biodiversity and ecosystems, and ensure the long-term productive potential of soil, land and plants. Although the islands are small in size, such a monitoring task is quite challenging due to the effects of weather on the islands, the dynamics of the vegetation, and the continued activities of locals all across the islands. In this context, geospatial technologies and remote sensing techniques could serve as an essential tool for the analysis of land use and detecting changes occurring within the ecosystems.
This study attempts to assess the land use change detection at a pixel level and highlight the vegetation density, and workout the loss of vegetative in arable and rural areas across the islands during the years 2015 to 2019. The created models are derived from the observation of the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) as obtained by Sentinel-2 satellite images. The results showed that from Spring 2017 to Spring 2019, the islands experienced a 2.45km² reduction of green vegetation colour. Over a period of 4 years the islands experienced a 1.25km² erosion of arable and rural lands. Among other reasons, this loss is the result of more development and the extension of the urbanization zones.
The Influence of English Language Skills on Students’ Performance in Vocational Education
Authors: Cefai Marilyn
Published: October 2020

Post-secondary vocational education and training institutions such as MCAST, have contributed to the growth of the higher education sector. One of the reasons why students opt for vocational education, rather than a more academic path, is that they have not obtained the required qualifications to study at university level, one of these qualifications being English Language at Ordinary or Intermediate Level. Having weaker language skills might prove a challenge or a barrier to students’ performance in their vocational studies. This is particularly relevant in the Maltese context where students are expected to communicate adequately in the two official languages, Maltese and English. Maltese remains the mother language of the overwhelming majority of the population, yet English is predominantly used when it comes to lecturing, course notes, textbooks, research and assessment (Sciriha & Vassallo, 2001; Sciriha & Vassallo, 2006; European Commission, 2012). Thus, students who do not have a sufficient level of skills in the language, may be at a disadvantage. The objective of the present research is to discover whether there is any correlation between MCAST students’ level of ability in the English language and their performance in vocational subjects. An understanding is sought of how language skills can enhance and contribute positively towards the acquisition of technical knowledge, skills and competences of students in a Vocational Education and Training (VET) college setting. Grounded theory methodology is adopted as it lends itself well to a constructivist stance and due to its rigorous and systemic approach to data collection and analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to probe into students’ perspectives on the importance of the English language and its influence on their academic achievement. A parsimonious model is presented following a process of constant comparison and analysis.
A potential of non-energy use of agricultural residues and energy plants in lignocellulosic composites production. A brief report
Authors: Wronka Anita , Kowaluk Grzegorz
Published: October 2020

There is a systematic increase in the use of wood waste as raw material in particleboard production, but in the face of an upward trend in particleboard demand, these activities are insufficient. Therefore, there arises the necessity of using materials whose resources are renewable easier (faster) than forest resources, or materials which are considered waste. Such materials could be: “energetic” willow (Salix Viminalis L.) and rape straw. In the case of willow, its production potential quite often cannot be fully utilized in an “energy production” way, due to consumers’ requirements and capabilities. In the case of rape straw, which is regarded as waste material (in more optimistic scenarios – as a side product) in agricultural production, it is known, that the amount of this material will increase, because of the EU regulations, concerning biofuels. Today only 2–3% of rape straw is industrially utilized. The results of research show that appropriate preparation of the mentioned alternative raw material and adjustment of technological parameters give a possibility to produce particleboards of parameters equal to, or even higher than, those of typical, commercially available boards. The research confirmed the possibility of replacing industrial wood shavings with rapeseed straw particles even in 50% without significantly worsening the properties of the manufactured boards. The strength and thermal insulation parameters of boards with reduced density, made of Salix Viminalis L. willow particles, are also promising.
Transcriptomic analysis of the liver in aged laying hens with different intensity of brown eggshell color
Authors: Han Gi ppeum , Kim Jun-Mo , Kang Hwan Ku , Kil Dong Yong
Published: October 2020

Objective: Eggshell color is an important indicator of egg quality for consumers, especially for brown eggs. Various factors related to laying hens and their environment affect brown eggshell coloration. However, there have been no studies investigating hepatic functions of laying hens with variable intensity of brown eggshell color. Therefore, this study was aimed to identify potential factors affecting brown eggshell coloration in aged laying hens at the hepatic transcriptomic level.Methods: Five hundred 92-wk-old Hy-line Brown laying hens were screened to select laying hens with different intensity of brown eggshell color based on eggshell color fans. Based on eggshell color scores, hens with dark brown eggshells (DBE; eggshell color fan score = 14.8) and hens with light brown eggshells (LBE; eggshell color fan score = 9.7) were finally selected for the liver sampling. We performed RNA-seq analysis using the liver samples through the paired-end sequencing libraries. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) profiling was carried out to identify their biological meaning by bioinformatics.Results: A total of 290 DEGs were identified with 196 being up-regulated and 94 being down-regulated in DBE groups as compared to LBE groups. The Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed that these DEGs belong to several biological pathways including herpes simplex infection (toll-like receptor 3 [TLR3], cyclin-dependent kinase 1, etc.) and influenza A (TLR3, radical S-adenosyl methionine domain containing 2, myxovirus [influenza virus] resistance 1, etc.). Genes related to stress response (ceremide kinase like) and nutrient metabolism (phosphoenolpyruvate carboxy-kinase 1, methylmalonic aciduria [cobalamin deficiency] cblB type, glycine receptor alpha 2, solute carrier family 7 member 11, etc.) were also identified to be differentially expressed.Conclusion: The current results provide new insights regarding hepatic molecular functions related to different intensity of brown eggshell color in aged laying hens. These insights will contribute to future studies aiming to optimize brown eggshell coloration in aged laying hens.
Zearalenone regulates key factors of the Kelch-like erythroid cell-derived protein with CNC homology-associated protein 1–nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 signaling pathway in duodenum of post-weaning gilts
Authors: Cheng Qun , Jiang Shu zhen , Huang Li bo , Yang Wei ren , Yang Zai bin
Published: October 2020

Objective: This study explored the mechanism of the Kelch-like erythroid cell-derived protein with CNC homology-associated protein 1 (Keap1)–nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway under conditions of zearalenone (ZEA)-induced oxidative stress in the duodenum of post-weaning gilts. Methods: Forty post-weaning gilts were randomly allocated to four groups and fed diets supplemented with 0, 0.5, 1.0, or 1.5 mg/kg ZEA. Results: The results showed significant reductions in the activity of the antioxidant enzymes total superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase and increases the malondialdehyde content with increasing concentrations of dietary ZEA. Immunohistochemical analysis supported these findings by showing a significantly increased expression of Nrf2 and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) with increasing concentrations of ZEA. The relative mRNA and protein expression of Nrf2, GPX1 increased linearly (p<0.05) and quadratically (p<0.05), which was consistent with the immunohistochemical results. The relative mRNA expression of Keap1 decreased linearly (p<0.05) and quadratically (p<0.05) in the duodenum as the ZEA concentration increased in the diet. The relative mRNA expression of modifier subunit of glutamate-cysteine ligase (GCLM) increased quadratically (p<0.05) in all ZEA treatment groups and the relative mRNA expression of quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) catalytic subunit of glutamate-cysteine ligase decreased linearly (p<0.05) and quadratically (p<0.05) in the ZEA1.0 group and ZEA1.5 group. The relative protein expression of Keap1 and GCLM decreased quadratically (p<0.05) in the duodenum as the ZEA concentration increased in the diet, respectively. The relative protein expression of NQO1 increased linearly (p<0.05) and quadratically (p<0.05) in all ZEA treatment groups in the duodenum. Conclusion: These findings suggest that ZEA regulates the expression of key factors of the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway in the duodenum, which enables resistance to ZEA-induced oxidative stress. Further studies are needed to examine the effects of ZEA induced oxidative stress on other tissues and organs in post-weaning gilts.
Plant-Associated Microorganisms as a Potent Bio-Factory of Active Molecules against Multiresistant Pathogens
Authors: de Paula Nogueira Cruz Felipe , Cristina Bogas Andréa , Paiva de Sousa Cristina
Published: October 2020

Antibiotic-resistant pathogens are a public health threat that has rapidly spread over decades due to continuous and uncontrolled administration of antimicrobial medicines, becoming an ever-increasing worldwide concern. Since the past decade, no significant innovations have been made, so the search for new compounds that face multidrug-resistant pathogens is critically important. Plant-symbiont microorganisms are capable of producing a variety of bioactive natural products, making it possible to treat several infectious diseases. Biotechnological processes using microorganisms have been increasing in recent years since the discovery of Paclitaxel, an important antimitotic produced by the endophyte Taxomyces andreanae. It was isolated for the first time from the native tree of Pacific Taxus brevifolia. Several studies have demonstrated the isolation and characterization of promising and potent substances capable of inhibiting these pathogens. In addition, both rhizospheric and endophytic communities represent an unexplored reserve of unique chemical structures for drug development. This chapter focuses on the potential of plant-derived microorganisms as a source of bioactive substances and the perspectives for further studies and their application.
Biological Synthesis of Nanoparticles Using Endophytic Microorganisms: Current Development
Authors: Messaoudi Omar , Bendahou Mourad
Published: October 2020

Nanotechnology is a new emerging interdisciplinary approach created by pairing of engineering, chemical, and biological approaches. This technology produces nanoparticles using different methods of traditional physical and chemical processes; however, the outlook in this field of research is to use ecofriendly, nontoxic, and clean methods for the synthesis of nanoparticles. Biological entities, such as plants, bacteria, fungi, algae, yeast, and actinomycetes, are the best candidate to achieve this goal. Among the biological route, those involve endophtic microorganisms to reduce metallic ions into nanoparticles. This method is considered as an attractive option and can open a new horizon on the interface of biology and nanotechnology. The present chapter highlights the latest research about endophytic microorganisms and their application in the synthesis of nanoparticles, as well as the mechanisms involved in the formation of nanoparticles.
Laser Machining
Authors: Jeyaprakash Natarajan , Yang Che-Hua , Bhuvanesh Kumar Manickam
Published: October 2020

The increasing demands of materials with superior properties are given priority by most of the industries in recent years due to their higher performance levels. Machining of hard materials is a challenging task since it involves higher cutting forces and rapid tool wear. This leads to complexity in shaping these difficult-to machine materials such as advanced composite and ceramics. There have been many alternative techniques developed to overcome the shortcomings of conventional machining processes. Laser beam machining (LBM) is one of the advanced noncontact machining processes that employ monochromatic light with high frequency for machining using thermal energy. The highly energized photos are focused on a material cause heating, melting and vaporizes the material which is effectively used to remove unwanted portion of a material. Due to higher coherency of laser beam, materials can be machined very precisely than conventional machining processes. Generally, the laser-based material processing is suitable for a brittle type of material with minimum conductivity. However, this laser machining can be used for all kinds of materials in most cases. This chapter provides the principle of laser and its types, mechanism of material removal using laser, applications, advantages, and limitations of LBM.
Demographic, Clinical, and Radiographic Characteristics of Cerebral Aneurysms in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Chihi Mehdi , Sure Ulrich , Jabbarli Ramazan
Published: October 2020

To date, little is known on the prevalence, incidence, and characteristics of intracranial aneurysms (IA) in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Based on our recent systematic review and two cases treated in our institute, we summarize the current evidence concerning the distinct characteristics of these aneurysms. In contrast to saccular IA in healthy adults, IA in TSC present commonly with large or even giant sac size and fusiform configuration, location predilection on the internal carotid artery remote from the branching zones, remarkable higher prevalence of pediatric cases, inverted sex-ratio, and suspected rapid growth. Although the pathogenesis of IA in TSC is still unclear, all these features might point to the crucial role a congenital defect in the development of IA rather than extrinsic or environmental factors. Furthermore, we discuss the enhancement of the regular magnetic resonance (MR) imaging screening suggested by the last recommendations of the 2012 International TSC Consensus Conference with cranial time-of-flight MR angiography in order to enable timely identification and treatment of frequently complex IA in TSC.
Changes in the Agro-Climatic Conditions in Bulgaria at the End of the 20th and the Beginning of the 21st Century
Authors: Stoyanov Kazandjiev Valentin , Anastassova Georgieva Veska
Published: October 2020

Agriculture is one of the most sensitive sectors of the economy. Therefore, climate change has the greatest impact on agricultural production. Despite the achievements of modern agricultural science and the development of agrotechnologies, the importance of meteorological conditions for the size and quality of agricultural products cannot be compensated. Agriculture in Bulgaria is carried out under conditions of limited and insufficient moisture. By the end of the last century, the studied trends of climate change in the area of agricultural production have led to a deterioration of agro-climatic conditions. The temperatures increase and decreasing rainfall and the uneven nature of their distribution cause short-term manifestations of this impact consisting of high variability, including extreme weather events and long-term manifestations consisting of changes in the agro-climatic characteristics of an agricultural area. Since the beginning of the 21st century, we have witnessed annual weather and climate records, both globally and nationally. The frequency and amplitude of extreme weather events is increasing every year. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is emphasizing 2019 as the fifth warmest year since the beginning of the 21st century. This paper presents the results of the changes study in agro-climatic conditions in the period 1986-2015 compared to the reference period 1961-1990, as a result of changes in the values of main meteorological elements at the end of the last and the beginning of the present century. The results of the research are necessary for decision-making, both at scientific and management level, in risk assessment and preparation of measures for adaptation to climate change, and directly in agricultural practice - for the choice of crops, varieties and hybrids and in the choice of technological solutions.
Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants: Current Knowledge and Future Prospects
Authors: Marothia Deeksha , Kaur Navdeep , Kumar Pati Pratap
Published: October 2020

Exposure to abiotic stresses has become a major threatening factor that hurdles the sustainable growth in agriculture for fulfilling the growing food demand worldwide. A significant decrease in the production of major food crops including wheat, rice, and maize is predicted in the near future due to the combined effect of abiotic stresses and climate change that will hamper global food security. Thus, desperate efforts are necessary to develop abiotic stress-resilient crops with improved agronomic traits. For this, detailed knowledge of the underlying mechanisms responsible for abiotic stress adaptation in plants is must required. Plants being sessile organisms respond to different stresses through complex and diverse responses that are integrated on various whole plants, cellular, and molecular levels. The advanced genetic and molecular tools have uncovered these complex stress adaptive processes and have provided critical inputs on their regulation. The present chapter focuses on understanding the different responses of the plants involved in abiotic stress adaptation and strategies employed to date for achieving stress resistance in plants.
Multi-Strategy MAX-MIN Ant System for Solving Quota Traveling Salesman Problem with Passengers, Incomplete Ride and Collection Time
Authors: C.H. Silva Bruno , F.C. Fernandes Islame , C. Goldbarg Marco , F.G. Goldbarg Elizabeth
Published: October 2020

This study proposes a novel adaptation of MAX-MIN Ant System algorithm for the Quota Traveling Salesman Problem with Passengers, Incomplete Ride, and Collection Time. There are different types of decisions to solve this problem: satisfaction of the minimum quota, acceptance of ride requests, and minimization of travel costs under the viewpoint of the salesman. The Algorithmic components proposed regards vehicle capacity, travel time, passenger limitations, and a penalty for delivering a passenger deliverance out of the required destination. The ant-based algorithm incorporates different sources of heuristic information for the ants and memory-based principles. Computational results are reported, showing the effectiveness of this ant-based algorithm.