bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Evolution of a University-Based Center of Play Therapy Education
Authors: McNary Tiffany , Tobin Galina Kadosh , Stauffer Sarah D.
Published: August 2020

More beginning graduate students and new mental health professionals are seeing children and families in their therapeutic work, creating a growing need for play therapy-specific training and supervision. Training students and professionals in the art of play therapy is critical to the wellbeing of children, families, and the future profession. A university-based approved center of play therapy education aims to fulfill this growing need while undertaking a momentous amount of responsibility. Training skilled play therapists is a complex endeavor requiring a combination of foundational knowledge, advanced clinical and conceptual skills, and supervision that surpasses classroom coursework requirements. The authors describe the evolution of Georgia State University's Center of Play Therapy Education and Play Therapy Training Institute to provide readers with a comprehensive model for play therapy training and supervision.
Positive Psychology Competences of Pre-School Teachers as a Tool for Understanding and Nurturing Children's Play
Authors: Vorkapić Sanja Tatalović , Prović Petra
Published: August 2020

The Positive Psychology frame and definition present a natural environment for understanding and researching children's play in the context of nurturing overall positive characteristics in children's development. Therefore, this article presents a structured review of the common ground between the basic principles of positive psychology and children's play in the context of early and preschool institutions. Also, it demonstrates the implementation of positive psychology principles in children's play and the methods by which positive psychology could be promoted through children's play in kindergartens. Within that frame, the importance is given to the needed preschool teachers' competences in this area. In this context, various activities are presented that reflect a common ground of positive psychology and children's play. Finally, some significant guidelines for future research and practice enhancement are presented.
Using Cognitive Psychology to Understand Anticipated User Experience in Computing Products
Authors: Eilu Emmanuel
Published: August 2020

User Experience assessment is an evaluation of user's experience with the product, system or service during ‘use' (i.e., actual interaction experience) as well as ‘anticipated or before use' (i.e., pre-interaction experience).Whereas many user experience researchers may be conversant with explaining a person's experience during use of a product, system or service, they find it difficult to explain experience before a product or service is used (Anticipated Use), which in this chapter is referred to as Anticipated User Experience (AUX). This chapter applies the theory of cognitive psychology and its principles to best explain how Anticipated User Experience occurs and how this experience can be achieved. This chapter goes a long way in informing user experience researchers and practitioners on the relevance of attaining AUX in a computing product and how it can be achieved.
Preemployment Psychological Screening of Police Officer Applicants
Authors: Mitchell Cary L.
Published: August 2020

The psychological screening of law enforcement officer applicants represents a core practice area in police psychology. Significant advances have been made in recent years regarding the development of practice guidelines and standards. This chapter provides an overview of the essential components of this specialized form of high-stakes psychological assessment. Important legal principles are highlighted and key resources are identified. The core steps in a contemporary screening model are described and the psychological self-report measures most widely used in psychological screenings are profiled. Factors impacting the validity and usefulness of psychological test results are discussed. The critical need for preemployment psychological screenings of police officer candidates to be culturally sensitive is addressed, as are some of the criticisms that have been identified in the literature. The chapter stresses the need for preemployment assessments of police officer candidates to be evidence-based, ethically attuned, and consistent with recent advances in police psychology.
Devices for Rehabilitation
Authors: Moirangthem Jessee , Avutu Sateesh Reddy , Gupta Meena , Bhatia Dinesh
Published: August 2020

Rehabilitation is an area of focus by experts and researchers from different disciplines owing to the increase in number of various types of disabilities. This chapter covers information relating to causes and need for rehabilitation devices for differently abled people with motor, vision, or hearing impairment. The chapter begins with a brief on the disability population worldwide and in India, and progresses towards presenting available devices in global market and possible improvement that can be made to improve the functionality of the device and in turn improve the quality of life (QoL) of the users. Towards the end of the chapter, a reader can acquire the fundamental knowledge about the different types of disability, suitable aids, and working.
Technology and Cognitive Empowerment for Healthy Elderly
Authors: Serino Silvia , Pedroli Elisa
Published: August 2020

The progressive growth of the ageing population represents opportunities as well as challenges. Consistently, the identification of effective cognitive empowerment programs in elderly population is now a worldwide health policy priority, specially for their preventive effect. In this chapter, within the paradigm of Positive Technology, the main focus will be on the use advanced technologies as effective tools for a new class of applications aimed at improving the traditional cognitive empowerment in elderly. Specifically, the attention will be devoted on how advanced technologies may be used to support elderly in reaching engaging and self-actualizing experiences. On the basis of the most recent evidence in literature, it will be discussed the possible advantages in using such advanced technologies for improving well-being in frail elderly: coupled with an increase in cognitive skills acquisition, the advantages may range increased self-efficacy and decreased subjective weakness, with a consequent improvement in both physical and cognitive performance.
Multi-Modal Motion-Capture-Based Biometric Systems for Emergency Response and Patient Rehabilitation
Authors: Gavrilova Marina L. , Ahmed Ferdous , Bari A. S. M. Hossain , Liu Ruixuan , Liu Tiantian , Maret Yann , Sieu Brandon Kawah , Sudhakar Tanuja
Published: August 2020

This chapter outlines the current state of the art of Kinect sensor gait and activity authentication. It also focuses on emotional cues that could be observed from human body and posture. It presents a prototype of a system that combines recently developed behavioral gait and posture recognition methods for human emotion identification. A backbone of the system is Kinect sensor gait recognition, which explores the relationship between joint-relative angles and joint-relative distances through machine learning. The chapter then introduces a real-time gesture recognition system developed using Kinect sensor and trained with SVM classifier. Preliminary experimental results demonstrate accuracy and feasibility of using such systems in real-world scenarios. While gait and emotion from body movement has been researched in the context of standalone biometric security systems, they were never previously explored for physiotherapy rehabilitation and real-time patient feedback. The survey of recent progress and open problems in crucial areas of medical patient rehabilitation and rescue operations conclude this chapter.
A SWOT Analysis of Virtual Reality for Seniors
Authors: Soltani Pooya
Published: August 2020

The population of older people is increasing. In this book chapter, the author reviewed some of the applications of virtual reality (VR) for seniors in form of a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis. This approach is commonly used to assess and guide internal and external parameters to accomplish a mission. Some of the challenges that the elderly are facing were reviewed and the way VR can help in overcoming those challenges were discussed. A comparison of VR technologies was also presented. The results show that VR's feasibility and concept are linked to existing technologies and the characteristics of each system control immersion, interaction, and stimulation. VR interventions might have the potential to be used as ecologically valid e-health screening systems. Systems should be specifically designed and adapted for seniors and usability issues should be addressed. Ideally, VR interventions work best in addition to traditional methods. Future studies should use more subjects to ensure the efficacy of such interventions for seniors.
Neurotechnology in the Development of Cyber-Psychotherapy Systems for Inducing and Measuring Altered States of Consciousness in Transpersonal Psychotherapy
Authors: Valverde Raul
Published: August 2020

Transpersonal psychotherapy is based on transpersonal psychology and considers that the psyche is multidimensional and that there are several “levels of consciousness” and each has different characteristics and is governed by different laws. Transpersonal psychology is the study of human nature and proceeds on the assumption that human beings possess potentials that exceed the limits of their ego and integrate the spiritual experience within a broader understanding of the human psyche and consciousness. Altered states of consciousness have been used as psychotherapy in transpersonal psychology for decades. Although there are very well known techniques to induce altered state of consciousness as holotropic breathwork, Neurotechnology offers an alternative way not only to induce these states for transpersonal therapy but also to measure the level of a state of consciousness. The objective of this chapter is to provide a review of the main concepts of Neurotechnology and the main technologies that can be used to induce and measure altered state of consciousness for transpersonal psychotherapy and propose an architecture for a Cyber psychotherapy system that uses these technologies.
Virtual and Augmented Reality Mirrors for Mental Health Treatment
Authors: Casas Sergio , Portalés Cristina , Vera Lucía , Riera José Vicente
Published: August 2020

Virtual and Augmented Reality are technologies widely used in a variety of areas, including the medical sector. On the other hand, regular mirrors have been traditionally used as tools to aid in mental health treatment for a variety of diseases and disorders. Although it is possible to build Virtual and Augmented Reality experiences based on mirror metaphors, there are very few contributions of this kind in the medical sector. In this chapter, the great benefits that regular mirrors have brought for mental health treatment are addressed. In addition, a review on the state of the art in mirror-based Virtual and Augmented Reality applications is given, highlighting the potential benefits that these enhanced mirrors could bring for the mental health treatment.
An IoT-Based Platform for Rehabilitation Monitoring and Biosignal Identification
Authors: Klinger Volkhard
Published: August 2020

This article describes how as a result of technological advances of the embedded system, the Internet-of-Things (IoT) has created a wealth of new applications and tailored solutions, even in the area of health and medical technology. The integration of state-of-the-art IoT-systems in an existing prototype platform for biosignal acquisition, identification, and prosthesis control provides new applications for prevention and rehabilitation monitoring. This article concentrates on an IoT-based platform for rehabilitation monitoring and biosignal identification. The IoT-characteristics for the application in the area of medical technology are discussed and the integration of such IoT-modules in the given architecture is introduced. Based on this extended architecture, new applications in the field of biosignal measurement, signal processing and biosignal monitoring are presented. Some results of a rehabilitation monitoring system, based on a self-designed IoT-module, integrated in the whole platform, are shown.
The Perception of Muslim Clients Towards Non-Muslim Counselors
Authors: Abdullah Siti Salina , Shah Kamarul Md
Published: August 2020

Having a counselor with a different religious background from the client might lead to conflicting perspectives. This chapter intends to explore the perceptive of a Muslim client in choosing a non-Muslim counselor. The concept of helping process, which is highly respectable in the teaching of Islam, is explicated. Muslims are encouraged to help each other, especially those who are in need. Preferably, a non-Muslim counselor should have some basic understanding of the Pillars of Islam prior to conducting a counseling session with a Muslim client. The knowledge will facilitate the counselor understanding process of the clients without bias. It is anticipated that the information presented herewith would benefit non-Muslim counselors and help them in understanding their Muslim clients better. This chapter also examines the cultural issues that may influence the effectiveness of a counseling session between Muslim clients and non-Muslim counselors.
Prison Environments
Authors: Luyt Willem Frederik Muller
Published: August 2020

This chapter deals with the historical development of prison environments, linked to the context of inmate development. Since early days, the prison environment has always accounted for some form of inmate development. New-generation prisons have brought a more profound influence in the area of inmate development. However, there has been a larger emphasis on security in the prison environment, compared to inmate development. In addition, the inmate subculture has a fundamental influence on the interaction between the prison environment and inmate education and development. With this in mind, the chapter provides an overview of prison environments through the ages up to post-modern times. It constantly addresses the interaction between environment and education from the perspective of the relevant era of prison evolution.
Community-Based Rehabilitation Program for Acid Assault Victims of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Tahmina , Ah Siti Hajar Binti Abu Bakar
Published: August 2020

This chapter is a PhD research proposal of the first author based on qualitative research design. The study aims at exploring some community-based rehabilitation interventions for the acid victims (women) in Bangladesh. The proposal was submitted by the first author to pursue her PhD studies at the Department of Social Administration and Justice, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Malaya, Malaysia. It contains major components of a research proposal that includes the background of the study, problem statement, research questions and objectives, literature review: conceptual and theoretical framework, the scope and significance of the study, and research methodology. This proposal also includes the work plan of the study. The proposal will be helpful to the students and readers who are interested in conducting research in this field.
Psychological Well-Being, Self-Concept, and Couple Relations in University Students
Authors: Torres Lucía Herrera , Mohand Laila Mohamed , Espinosa Sergio Cepero
Published: August 2020

The aim of this chapter is to analyze the psychological well-being of university students, their self-concept and certain behaviours and attitudes of violence in couple relationships by gender and cultural group (European vs. Amazigh) as well as to determine the relationship amongst the three constructs evaluated. For it, 100 university students of the University Campus of Melilla, Spain, participated in the research. The Psychological Well-Being Scale (PWBS), the Test of Self-Concept Form 5 (AF-5), and the Dating Violence Questionnaire (DVQ) were the instruments used for the data collection. Main results showed differences by gender on the Degree of distress experienced by the presence of violent behaviours and attitudes in couple relationships, the Academic/Professional Self-concept and Self-Esteem. Regarding cultural group, differences were showed on the Couple Relationships Scale of PWBS. In addition, different correlations were found. Finally, the need to address the elements analyzed at the university context is discussed.
Positive Psychological Interventions and Information and Communication Technologies
Authors: Baños Rosa M. , Etchemendy Ernestina , Carrillo-Vega Alba , Botella Cristina
Published: August 2020

Since the advent of Positive Psychology there has been a connection between positive psychological interventions (PPIs) and the digital world. The development of PPIs, especially those delivered online, is becoming widespread within and outside the scientific field. Therefore, there is currently a need for accurate information that provides a critical view of all the interventions currently available. This chapter presents an updated review of the relationship between these two fields (PPIs and technologies), and discusses relevant considerations that should be taken into account when technologies are used to deliver PPIs, as well as the elements that can moderate their effectiveness. The final aim of the chapter is to provide readers with basic tools to make critical judgments about PPIs delivered via a technological format.
Psychological Impacts of Downsizing Trauma
Authors: Simuth Jozef
Published: August 2020

The chapter summarizes research studies as well as case studies from companies worldwide that show how organizational changes followed by downsizing create a traumatic experience for all organization members. The author's focus is on the psychological perspective on traumatic experience by all employees (victims and survivors) and managers whose task is to organize and implement changes in the organization. Based on the literature review, the chapter describes symptoms and psychological effects of organizational change trauma on individuals and the ways to minimize the traumatic effects. The author believes that outplacement and therapeutic approach are effective tools for overcoming the layoff trauma and also send positive signals to employees and to general public.
User Needs and Limitations of Existing Mobility Devices
Authors: Koumpouros Yiannis
Published: August 2020

The use of gait assistive devices, although can provide precious help can also have limitations or adverse consequences. The performance of daily activities is partially restrained by a series of factors having to do with the assistive device limitations or the limitations emerged from environmental causes. Valid and reliable assessment tools to classify and clarify their limitations or users' satisfaction do not exist. An extended literature search was performed for some of the most commonly mentioned assistive device limitations or dissatisfaction reasons and identified the most appropriate tools to be able to study such limitations and conclude in valid outcomes. A study was conducted in a rehabilitation hospital using the IPA, EQ5D and SF-12 tools. The size of the sample combined with the uncertainty related to the satisfaction of normal distribution prerequisite, led to use several statistical analysis tools and methodologies. A summary of the results from both the literature review and the real case study on a mixed group of mobility aid users are presented in the paper.
A Happier Balance
Authors: Tomasulo Daniel J.
Published: August 2020

This chapter describes how intentional well-being interventions integrate the development of character strengths and activation of positive emotional resources while reducing risks and alleviating symptoms of depression and poor health. The emergence of these interventions reaches back nearly half a century and each layer of development has led to a more robust platform for implementing these approaches. Now, based on the evidence-based principles of positive psychology, these positive interventions help to cultivate hope through a more balanced approach to well-being than traditional deficit-oriented methods of psychotherapy. This chapter looks at the history of development of these interventions and their likely next phase of development.
Foundations and Future of Well-Being
Authors: Athota Vidya S.
Published: August 2020

This chapter begins by exploring subjective well-being and its origins dating back to ancient thinkers such as Aristotle. It discusses two main forms of subjective well-being; eudaimonic and hedonic well-being. The chapter then delves into the roles of personality, emotional intelligence, positive emotions, economics and religion in influencing subjective well-being. Measures of well-being are discussed as well as the notion of the Hedonic Treadmill and how it operates with the Set-point Theory of happiness. In addition, this chapter also presents the latest research from neuroscience and discusses how neuroscience potentially challenges personality and set-point theories. A few practical steps for subjective well-being are also discussed. Overall, this chapter covers the historical and contemporary theories of subjective well-being and explores a new positive direction on the association of personality, health and subjective well-being.
Self-Learning System for Child Development Using Conversational AI and Natural Language Processing (NLP)
Authors: Mishra Amit
Published: August 2020

Education and learning are the most important aspects of the evolution of societies. They have been a favorite subject for philosophers and psychologists to work upon. Same questions are now being re-dealt by computer scientists in current scenarios. Although evolution is a continuous process, the pace of evolution is not a linear graph. Children acquire a huge amount of knowledge with very little input from teachers, friends, parents, and surroundings. Understanding how human brain works and more precisely, how the child brain actually functions is opening the path of researches in artificial intelligence (AI).
Artificial Intelligence and Its Implications in Education
Authors: Sharma Uttam , Tomar Pradeep , Bhardwaj Harshit , Sakalle Aditi
Published: August 2020

Computer equipment, software, and online service have succeeded in introducing improvements and enhancements to the classrooms and teaching methods in recent years. Yet, using artificial intelligence (AI), the real disruption of education has to come. Artificial intelligence has proven its position as a game-changing force in various fields, in the past causing unprecedented transformations. Using AI, expert systems can be programmed to communicate with the environment through technologies such as visual perception, speech recognition, and intellectual behavior, which we can find to be inherently human. This chapter aims to discuss the role of artificial intelligence in the education sector including its market size, the effect of AI in education, case studies of current AI presence in education (smart content, smart tutoring systems, virtual facilitators, and learning environments, etc.) to improve learning and life outcomes for all. Finally, chapter concludes with the issues and problems.
Learning With Artificial Intelligence Systems
Authors: Singh Tarana , Mishra Jyoti
Published: August 2020

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a part of our lives. Everything that we do on the internet is influenced to various extents by AI. It can automate various tasks in education as well as in other domains. Education domain is mainly benefited by AI, especially for the learning purpose. There may be the software to perform all activities which needs automation. This software can point out that course needs improvement. An AI software can give students and educators helpful feedback. Data, which is powered by AI, also helps schools, teachers, and supports students. There are lots of benefits of AI in education, which improves the learning experience of the students, for example personalization, teaching, grading, feedback on course quality, creating a global classroom, monitoring performance, and a lot more. When a new promising technology emerges and when the limitation of technology and the challenges of applying are often not perfectly understood, then the technology may seem to open radically new possibilities for solving old problems.
Student Intention to Use E-Learning
Authors: Pui Nee Tan , Si Ming Chan , Guan Kheng Kang , Sit Wai Too , Mei Wey Ng , Tong Seng Liew , Mohd Suki Norbayah
Published: August 2020

The aim of this study is to investigate how interactivity with e-learning influence learners' consideration to use based on Malaysian settings and the effect relating to the learners' experiences in using e-learning over a period of time. This study uses a multiple regression for data analysis across a sample of 204 respondents. Based on the analysis, the interactivity factor such as two-way communication has significantly affected among perceived usefulness (PU), perceived ease of use (PEOU), and perceived enjoyment (PE) while controllability and personalization affect towards PU and responsiveness on PEOU. Moreover, PE has directly affected the usage intention of e-learning system over time with increased usage experiences. The results could assist schools or universities enhancing the contents of e-learning system in order to encourage learners to strongly engage in utilizing the education materials that is provided, as well as improving the interactivity factors on the system.
Managing Service Trade-Off for Better Customer Experience
Authors: Raman Saravanan , Suki Norazah Mohd , Chinniah Subhaseni
Published: August 2020

This chapter presents the overview of service-operational challenges faced by the service managers in creating customer experience. Trade-offs are described as operational constraints in achieving multiple objectives simultaneously and have been identified the keys in creating memorable and meaningful service experience. Meanwhile, it was emphasized by Skinner that a firm cannot be outstanding at everything, and the managers need to make choices between different core operational capabilities in manufacturing or service systems. In a recent trend, maximizing profit among firms is not a new term because firms are seeking for high profit and would like to sustain their business in the industry by generating high revenue. Thus, the firms are looking at many other possibilities to increase their revenue. This has become the biggest concern among service firms to minimize the trade-offs effects on customer experience. Thus, the service organization attempts to minimize the trade-off practices among service employees and improve the service experience for the customers.
Economic Theory and Economic Reality
Authors: Kafka Kyriaki I.
Published: August 2020

The necessity of searching for deeper roots plays a significant role in the evolution of the economic development and growth. This issue arises from the complex globalized world, the understanding of which requires an in-depth analysis. This issue is born again in the aftermath of the Great Depression of 2008, which highlighted the inability of economics to address it. The need to turn to the deeper roots is reinforced by the individual empowerment and the increasing need to understand economic and social phenomena. Thus, the relationship between economic theory and reality is under new foundations. The cultural and institutional background stand out as the deep roots affecting the way economies operate and raise questions of effectiveness in implementing economic policy when applied in the same way across all economies. For these two factors to be taken into account in economics, a more general and integrated view of economic development and growth is required. It is an attempt at an evolutionary perspective of economic science that illuminates the meso- and meta-economics approach.
A Minsky-Levy-Kalecki Model
Authors: Correa Romar
Published: August 2020

The authors add the monetary insights of Hyman Minsky to the ‘real' Kalecki-Levy equation. The latter is embedded in the economics of Keynes and the former is expanded in the spirit of Minsky. They present their structural connections in a four-quadrant diagram as well as within a stock-flow-consistent model. The motivation arises from history and the revitalisation of the real bills doctrine. Accordingly, they make the case for the productive monetary emissions of a central bank acting in concert with the community of commercial banks. They define money as the emission of credit in the ‘first moment' of the circuit. It is simultaneously the wage bill. Workers will consume basics and are free to prefer liquidity in the form of bank deposits. The latter they label cash or currency and a firewall separates it from money. The objective is the increase in output and employment called upon by the milieu in all countries of the world in which the 'dark forces' of uncertainty and pessimism have taken over. The policy stance is embellished by the introduction of central bank digital money.
Behavioral Intention to Use Mobile Technology in Language Teaching
Authors: Aburezeq Ibtehal Mahmoud , Ishtaiwa-Dweikat Fawzi Fayez , Patronis Marielle
Published: August 2020

This study aimed to qualitatively investigate the factors that influence teachers' behavioral intention to use mobile technology (BIU) for language teaching employing the original technology acceptance model (TAM) as a framework. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 Arabic and English teachers. The study results revealed that there were several external variables influencing teachers' behavioral intention to use mobile technology. It was also found that participants had mixed levels of perceived ease of use (PEOU), perceived usefulness (PU), and attitude toward use (ATU). Moreover, it was concluded that ATU had a direct impact on BIU and PU was the responsible factor for participants who had a mixed ATU.
Major Factors Influencing the Adoption of Cloud Computing in Jordan
Authors: Hammouri Qais , Abu-Shanab Emad Ahmed
Published: August 2020

Cloud computing is emerging as a major advancement in organizational infrastructure, which aims to bring with it great benefits to technology users. Jordan is one of the developing countries that seeks to adopt such technology. Based on that, this study focused on how Jordanians perceive and respond to cloud computing, and the main factors that govern its adoption and use. Using a quantitative approach, responses from cloud computing users were gathered to investigate their perceptions on the factors affecting their adoption of such technology. A sample of 134 online users was utilized and an instrument of 21 items was used in this study. Results indicated that service quality, cost reduction, IT background, and perceived control are major predictors of online users' intention to adopt cloud computing. Perceived security was not significant in this relation. The researchers conclude this work with their discussion, implications, limitations and future work.
E-Agriculture Platform
Authors: Aromolaran A. K. , Atata S. N. , Abubakar R. A. , Atere Hannah A.
Published: August 2020

The study examined accessibility and effect of e-agriculture on the livelihoods of the farming households using quantitative methodology. Farmers that have used e-agriculture components in their livelihoods were interviewed. Results showed that users had a great access to e-agriculture components and it has a positive effect. Access to e-agriculture platform increases market coverage for the sales, thereby doubling their income. The e-wallet was used to purchase inputs directly from companies and deposit money via e-transaction. The e-agriculture platform facilitates easy and fast communication with extension agents and fellow farmers. In order to operate the platform effectively, poor electric power supply and network connectivity must be resolved. The concept of e-agriculture aids the transformation of agriculture production by providing a platform to obtain information and market links to dispose produces which prevent postharvest losses and enhance profit margin. The impact of e-agriculture in the livelihoods of rural people, largely depends on their accessibility to the platform.
Exploring the Factors Influencing Continuance Usage of Over-the-Top Services
Authors: Chang Po-Chien , Chang Horng-Yan
Published: August 2020

Over-the-top (OTT) TV services are pervasive in local and global markets. Compared with traditional media consumption, OTT platforms afford users more control over content selection at a cheaper price. However, discussions of OTT services are limited and do not reveal the antecedents and consequences of OTT use from individual perspectives. Therefore, this study developed an empirical model by integrating perceived interactivity, perceived value, satisfaction, and continuance usage. After collecting data from 230 OTT users, we confirmed most of the researcher's proposed hypotheses and that perceived platform interactivity is the most critical indicator of OTT use. OTT users may prefer interacting with content and the social community from a value perspective. Perceived interactivity and perceived value are strong indicators of satisfaction and continuance usage of OTT services. Implications for academics and practitioners are discussed.
Online Adaptive Learning
Authors: Harati Hoda , Yen Cherng-Jyh , Tu Chih-Hsiung , Cruickshank Brandon J. , Armfield Shadow William Jon
Published: August 2020

Adaptive Learning (AL), a new web-based online learning environment, requires self-regulated learners who act autonomously. However, to date, there appears to be no existing model to conceptualize different aspects of SRL skills in Adaptive Learning Environments (ALE). The purpose of this study was to design and empirically evaluate a theoretical model of Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) in ALE's and the related questionnaire as a measurement tool. The proposed theoretical model, namely, “Adaptive Self-Regulated Learning (ASR)”, was specified to incorporate the SRL skills into ALE's. Based on this model, the Adaptive Self-regulated Learning Questionnaire (ASRQ) was developed. The reliability and validity of the ASRQ were evaluated via the review of a content expert panel, the Cronbach's alpha coefficients, and confirmatory factor analysis. Overall, the results supported the theoretical framework and the new ASRQ in an ALE. In this article, the theoretical and practical implications of the findings were discussed.
Effect of nest microclimate temperatures on metabolic rates of small carpenter bees, Ceratina calcarata (Hymenoptera: Apidae)
Authors: Richards Miriam H. , Cardama Garate Andrea , Shehata Mary , Groom Derrick , Tattersall Glenn J. , Welch Kenneth C.
Published: August 2020

Small carpenter bees (Ceratina calcarata Robertson) (Hymenoptera: Apidae) build their nests in both sunny and shady sites, so maternal decisions about nest sites influence the thermal environment experienced by juveniles throughout development. A previous study demonstrated that when larvae and pupae were raised in the laboratory at room temperature, those from sunny nests developed more slowly than those from shady nests. This suggested that bees developing in sunny nests slowed their metabolism or that bees developing in shady nests increased their metabolism. To test this hypothesis, we performed a field experiment in which bees nested in full sun, full shade, or semi-shade. We brought larvae and pupae into the laboratory to be raised to adulthood at room temperature and measured their metabolic rates (VCO2) at 10 °C, 25 °C, and 40 °C. As expected, bees had higher VCO2 at higher test temperatures, but significant interaction also occurred between test temperature and field treatment, such that bees from sunny nests exhibited higher metabolic rates at 40 °C. Because small carpenter bees frequently nest in full sun, adaptation to high nest temperatures may involve activation of thermal protection mechanisms at the cost of slower development.
Dengue Virus Degrades USP33–ATF3 Axis via Extracellular Vesicles to Activate Human Microglial Cells
Authors: Mishra Ritu , Lahon Anismrita , Banerjea Akhil C.
Published: August 2020

Dengue virus (DENV) infection disrupts host innate immune signaling at various checkpoints. Cellular levels and stability of intermediate signaling molecules are a crucial hijacking point for a successful viral pathogenesis. Stability and turnover of all the cellular proteins including intermediate signaling molecules are principally regulated by proteasomal degradation pathway. In this study, we show that how DENV infection and particularly DENV-NS1 can modulate the host extracellular vesicle (EV) cargo to manipulate the deubiquitination machinery of the human microglial cell (CHME3). We have performed EV harvesting, size analysis by nanoparticle tracking analysis, identification of cargo microRNA via quantitative PCR, microRNA target validation by overexpression, and knockdown via mimics and anti-miRs, immunoblotting, dual luciferase reporter assay, in vivo ubiquitination assay, chase assay, and promoter activity assay to reach the conclusion. In this study, we show that DENV-infected monocytes and DENV-NS1–transfected cells release high amounts of EVs loaded with miR-148a. These EVs get internalized by human microglial cells, and miR-148a suppresses the ubiquitin-specific peptidase 33 (USP33) protein expression levels via binding to its 3′ untranslated region. Reduced USP33 in turn decreases the stability of cellular ATF3 protein via deubiquitylation. ATF3 acts as a suppressor of major proinflammatory gene expression pathways of TNF-α, NF-κB, and IFN-β. Our mechanistic model explains how DENV uses the EV pathway to transfer miR-148a for modulating USP33 and downstream ATF3 levels in human microglial cells and contributes in neuroinflammation within the CNS.
Caustic ingestion in children: A 6-year retrospective study
Authors: Lovera Cristina , Castagno Emanuele , Bondone Claudia , Ricceri Fulvio , Urbino Antonio F.
Published: August 2020

Some aspects of the management of caustic ingestion in children are still debated. We aimed to determine the predictive value of epidemiological and clinical features of caustic ingestion, and to define guidelines adherence. This is a retrospective study on children ≤18 years referred to our Emergency Department over 6 years because of caustic ingestion. Statistical significance at p<0.05. Overall, 107 caustic ingestions were identified, mainly accidental <5 years (87.85%). Bleach was the most common caustic (46.73%). Forty-six patients underwent endoscopy; 57.38% children who should have endoscopy on guidelines, actually did not (p<0.0001), but no complications were reported. No or minimal lesions were reported in asymptomatic children; ≥2 symptoms correlated with the severity of lesions (p<0.0002). Therapy of severe cases was correct; overtreatment was observed for minor injuries (p<0.0001). Asymptomatic children after caustic ingestion have a very low-probability of moderate-severe endoscopic lesions, and the risk of severe damage increases proportionally with ≥2 symptoms. Prospective studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of intensive clinical observation versus EGD on low-risk children to identify those with clinically relevant esophageal lesions.
Polymorphisms of the CAPN, CAST, LEP, GH, GHR, IGF-1 and MSTN loci of Colombian Creole hair x Pelibuey sheep sheep crossbreeds
Authors: Lenis-Valencia Claudia , Hernández-Herrera Darwin , Álvarez-Franco Luz
Published: August 2020

The objective of this study was to characterize single nucleotide polymorphisms at the Calpain (CAPN), Calpastatin (CAST), Leptin (LEP), Growth Hormone (GH), Growth Hormone Receptor (GHR), Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) and myostatin (MSTN) loci in Columbian Creole hair sheep crossed with Pelibuey sheep. In 192 individuals, the CAST and MSTN loci were genotyped by PCR-RFLP, and the CAPN, GH, GHR, IGF-1 and LEP loci by PCR-SSCP and sequences. The following parameters were calculated: allelic and genotypic frequencies, observed (Ho) and expected (He) heterozygosity, fixation index and deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE). In the CAPN locus, higher frequencies of the T allele (70%) were found with respect to C (30%) and the frequencies of the TT (46%) and TC (48%) genotypes exceeded the CC (6%) genotype. For the CAST locus, the MM genotype (83%) was the most frequent, followed by the other genotypes (MN 16% and NN 0.5%) and thus the allelic frequencies were M: 91% and N: 9%. The allele A (66%) of the LEP locus was more frequent than the G allele (34%) and the AA, AG and GG genotypes had frequencies of 43, 47 and 10%, respectively. Only two genotypes (AA 64% and AG 36%) were found in the GH locus with allelic frequencies of 82 and 18% for A and G respectively. In the locus IGF-1, the genotypes AA, GG, and AG presented frequencies of 36, 49 and 15%, respectively, with a greater presence of the G allele (56%) than A (44%). In the analysed population, the GHR and MSTN loci were monomorphic, and only the AA and MM genotypes were found in each. The CAST, GH, and IGF-1 loci showed deviations from HWE. He deficit was found only in the IGF-1 locus. The CAPN, CAST, LEP, GH, and IGF-1 loci were polymorphic with high He and excess heterozygotes, in contrast, the GHR and MST loci were monomorphic. The data presented here could be used in animal breeding programmes.
Procjena postmortalnog intervala na temelju postmortalnih promjena i entomološkog nalaza
Authors: Palić Magdalena , Šerić Jelaska Lucija , Džaja Petar , Gudan Kurilj Andrea , Severin Krešimir
Published: August 2020

Postmortalnim intervalom (PMI) nazivamo vrijeme koje je proteklo od trenutka uginuća životinje. Njegovom procjenom dolazimo do spoznaja vezanih uz način i okolnosti smrti, a u pojedinim slučajevima pomaže nam u pronalaženju počinitelja. U ovom radu prikazan je slučaj u kojemu je postavljena sumnja da je došlo do počinjenja kaznenog djela ubijanja i mučenja životinje te je osim uzroka uginuća bilo potrebno ustvrditi postmortalni interval. Određivanje PMI-a se temeljilo na procjeni postmortalnih promjena i entomološkog nalaza. Nakon smrti, životinjsko tijelo prolazi kroz određene promjene koje su posljedica prestanka životnih funkcija i smrti stanica. Nastale promjene su nepovratne i progresivne te u konačnici dovode do potpunog raspadanja tijela. Tijekom razudbe ustvrđeni su uznapredovali znaci truljenja i izostanak mrtvačke ukočenosti te je bilo nemoguće precizno ustvrditi PMI isključivo na temelju postmortalnih promjena. U ovakvim ili sličnim slučajevima gdje postoji postmortalna kolonizacija kukcima moguće je ustvrditi PMI određivanjem vrste i starosti razvojnih stadija te utjecaja okolišnih faktora na njihov razvoj. Prema dostupnim entomološkim dokazima na temelju uočenih morfoloških obilježja ustvrđeno je da se radi o ličinkama iz porodice muha zujara (Calliphoridae) te se s određenom razinom sigurnosti pretpostavilo da je riječ o vrsti Calliphor vicina. Naime, zbog propusta pri prikupljanju i pohrani uzoraka nije bilo moguće na temelju morfološke razudbe i molekularnim analizama ustvrditi točan identitet vrste. Unatoč tome, entomološki nalaz je bitno doprinio u procjeni PMI i na taj način pomogao u rješavanju slučaja.
DÜNYA’DA VE TÜRKİYE’DE PAMUK ÜRETİMİNİN TEKSTİL SEKTÖRÜ AÇISINDAN ÖNEMİ
Authors: CEVHERİ Cevher İlhan , ŞAHİN Mehmet
Published: August 2020

Pamuk tekstil sektörünün önemli bir hammaddesidir. Özellikle pamuklu giysilerin doğal lif taşımaları nedeniyle insan yaşamında önemli bir yere sahiptir. Dünyada 2018/2019 sezonunda toplam lif pamuk üretim miktarı 25.69 milyon ton olarak gerçekleşmiştir. Dünyanın önde gelen lif pamuk üretici ülkeleri Çin, Hindistan,ABD, Pakistan, Özbekistan, Türkiye ve Tacikistan’dır. Ülkemiz dünya lif pamuk üretiminde 6. Sırada yer almaktadır. Pamuk ülkemiz tarımında büyük öneme sahip bir üründür. Ülkemizde yıllık yaklaşık olarak 800 bin ton lif pamuk üretilmektedir. Tekstil sektöründeki tüketim miktarı ise 1.600 bin ton kadardır. Dolayısıyla her yıl pamuk üretimimiz kadar olan miktarı yurt dışından ithal etmekteyiz. Tekstil sektöründe tüketilen pamuklar katma değeri yüksek nihai ürün olan giysi ürünlerine dönüşmektedir. Arge ve inovasyon faaliyetleri, moda akımı trendleri ve insanların tüketim alışkanlıklarındaki değişim, tekstil ürünlerine olan talebi her geçen gün arttırmaktadır. Ülkemiz yıllık ihracat değerleri incelendiğinde tekstil mamulleri ihracatı yaklaşık olarak %35 pay almaktadır. Tekstil sektörünün en önemli hammaddesi pamuk lifi olduğu için her geçen gün, bu lifin değeri ve önemi artmaktadır. Önümüzdeki süreçte pamuk lifinin üretim kapasitesinin artırılması ve üretilen liflerin nihai ürüne dönüşüm safhasında katma değerinin daha da arttırılmasına gereken önem verilmesi gerekmektedir. Bu çalışmamızda temel amaç, Dünyada ve Türkiye’de tekstil sektörünün en önemli hammaddesi olan pamuk lif üretiminin mevcut durumu ve önemini belirtmek ve bu konuda yapılacak çalışmalara yol gösterici olmaktır.
Velocity Field around a Rigid Flapping Wing with a Winglet in Quiescent Water
Authors: Goli Srikanth , Roy Arnab , Roy Subhransu
Published: August 2020

This study investigated the effect of a winglet on the velocity field around a rigid flapping wing. Two-dimensional particle image velocimetry was used to capture the velocity field of asymmetric one-degree-of-freedom flapping motion. A comparison was conducted between wings with and without a winglet at two flapping frequencies, namely 1.5 and 2.0 Hz. The effect of the winglet on the velocity field was determined by systematically comparing the velocity fields for several wing phase angles during the downstroke and upstroke. The presence of a winglet considerably affected the flow field around the wingtip, residual flow, and added mass interaction. The added mass was lower and residual flow was weaker for the wings with a winglet than for the wings without a winglet. The added mass and velocity magnitudes of the flow field increased proportionally with the flapping frequency.
Thai Voice-Controlled Analysis for Car Parking Assistance in System-on-Chip Architecture
Authors: Prongnuch Sethakarn , Sitjongsataporn Suchada
Published: August 2020

This paper introduces an analysis of Thai speech recognition for controlled car parking assist in the system-on-chip architecture. The objective is to investigate the male and female voice command signals, including Thai and English words, issued by the native Thai users. Hardware and software co-design by the Xilinx VIVADO are designed on an ARM multicore processor and a reconfigurable system on a ZYBO board. The experiments for Thai and English word recognition are conducted by using the Mel-frequency cepstral coefficient approach and presented in the form of spectrograms. The comparison of a voice command via Bluetooth and a reference command stored on an SD card and the ZYBO embedded board on a miniature electric vehicle is verified with the Pearson’s correlation coefficient (PCC). The experimental results show the accuracies of the received Thai/English, male/female, and indoor/outdoor voice commands as compared with the reference voice commands in the noisy surroundings. Hence, our system can support Thai/English and male/female voice commands to perform a set of actions for maneuvering a car by the PCC.