bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Hotel Web Pages According to User Suitability
Authors: Efe Burak , Efe Ömer Faruk
Published: February 2021

In recent years, with the development of the internet, there has been an increase in interest in the internet thanks to other technological developments. In the face of increased user demand, hotel webpages have to maintain high quality of service for a sustainable success. The authors present the Pythagorean fuzzy TOPSIS method to evaluate the hotel webpages. In this study, the most suitable hotel web page has been selected among the five hotel web page alternatives based on 13 criteria according to three experts' opinions. In contrast to precise numbers in TOPSIS method, the merit of fuzzy TOPSIS method is to handle the fuzzy numbers to evaluate the alternatives. Experts cannot express certain evaluations explicitly when using precise values during making decisions. However, the use of linguistic variables provides great success in decision making under uncertain environments. Pythagorean fuzzy number is used to define the weights of the criteria according to three experts' opinions. Five alternative hotel web pages are ranked by using Pythagorean fuzzy number.
A Preliminary Framework to Fight Tax Evasion in the Home Renovation Market
Authors: Zuccaro Cataldo , Plaisent Michel , Bernard Prosper
Published: February 2021

This chapter presents a preliminary framework to tackle tax evasion in the field of residential renovation. This industry plays a major role in economic development and employment growth. Tax evasion and fraud are extremely difficult to combat in the industry since it is characterized by a large number of stakeholders (manufacturers, retailers, tradesmen, and households) generating complex transactional dynamics that often defy attempts to deploy transactional analytics to detect anomalies, fraud, and tax evasion. This chapter proposes a framework to apply transactional analytics and data mining to develop standard measures and predictive models to detect fraud and tax evasion. Combining big data sets, cross-referencing, and predictive modeling (i.e., anomaly detection, artificial neural network support vector machines, Bayesian network, and association rules) can assist government agencies to combat highly stealth tax evasion and fraud in the residential renovation.
Implementing Theory of Knowledge in a Non-IB Immersion Context
Authors: Vollmer Carl
Published: February 2021

In recent years, Japan has made a significant push in expanding the International Baccalaureate (IB) into schools across the country. The goal of spreading the implementation of the IB curriculum in Japan goes beyond learners in IB programs. The value of IB curricula can also be beneficial in contexts outside the IB, although some adjustments to implementation might be needed. Theory of knowledge (TOK) is a central element of the IB and furthers the development of critical and thinking skills. This study is situated in a high school immersion program in Japan that has TOK as part of its curriculum for the 2nd and 3rd years of the program. TOK has been found to be beneficial to the learners in the program, but there are also challenges of implementing the IB curriculum in a non-IB context. These issues will be explored through discussion of classroom and curriculum practices. Through this chapter, teachers and researchers alike can understand the benefits of TOK, and the importance of critical thinking skills in the 21st century.
Towards a Holistic Education
Authors: Inugai Dixon Carol Ann
Published: February 2021

In times of stability, when societies are not experiencing tectonic changes, established educational systems do not attract much attention. The systems tend to fulfil their purposes while contributing to the ongoing stability. In times of disruptive change, however, the power of education to transform is a potential source for innovative solutions to emerging problems. We live in such disruptive times where the changes have local and global impacts. In order to understand the scope and scale of the current situation, this chapter will take a broad look at education: its purposes, its recent history, and whether it is fit for the current paradigmatic shift that we are experiencing. An example of navigating educational changes through synergies in the Japanese national context with the International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes of inquiry and a traditional transmission model of learning will be examined as a local phenomenon which reflects dynamics occurring globally. Additionally, the place of social emotional and ethical (SEE) learning for a holistic education will be considered.
Impact Analysis of Overseas School Visits on Undergraduate IB Educator Certificate Program Candidates
Authors: Takagi Shiho
Published: February 2021

The IB Educator Certificate course is comparatively recent and courses offered have unique attributes depending on the university. The author's purpose in this chapter is to explore the impact of an overseas school visit on the undergraduate students' understanding and perception of the IB, especially in their attitudes towards other cultures. The author organized a study trip to Malaysia and Singapore, visiting four International Baccalaureate (IB) schools. Implications of the trip were explored through a qualitative survey and semi-structured interviews to analyze the effect on students' views, their understanding of IB, with a particular focus on international mindedness. A comparative interview was also conducted to compare experiences and reactions of students who only visited IB schools within Japan. The author found that overseas school visits do have an effect on students' attitudes in relation to international-mindedness and cultural awareness.
Arendt, IB Leadership, and Global Citizenship Education
Authors: Gardner-McTaggart Alexander
Published: February 2021

This chapter explores how the IB operationalises a critical education through its senior school leadership against a backdrop of privilege. It draws upon original interview and observation of six directors in world leading schools. It finds that leadership understands itself as a powerful catalyst for an IB Global Citizenship Education (GCE). However, IB international schools emerge as strongholds of white Anglo-Europeanism with endemic issues of inequity in staffing and thinking which privilege white expatriate staff and continue to reinforce Anglo superiority through an uncritical cosmopolitan education. By deploying the theory of Arendt, this chapter finds the schools struggle to initiate progressive action worthy of their IB mission due to a focus on words over action by appeasing wealth over challenging injustice. The chapter suggests more modelling and less talk of IB and Eastern values and recommends international educators should begin by tackling the injustices and inequities of the international schools themselves, thereby modelling critical thinking in action.
Building Culturally-Competent School Practices in Rural and Small Cities
Authors: Crary Sarah L. , Gilblom Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2021

This chapter provides in-depth discussion of concepts and principles related to the development of cultural competence in school districts located in rural areas and smaller cities that have and are becoming racially, linguistically, and culturally diverse. The authors offer practical steps that help support the development of cultural competence among pre-service teachers, educators, and administrators. This framework can be implemented to create district-level professional development courses that can be used to renew teacher licenses. Additionally, suggestions of how to best address the discipline among culturally diverse students, and how to build authentic relationships with students, parents and the community are also discussed.
Revolutionizing Education
Authors: Jack Nadira
Published: February 2021

From the core of its inception, the American school system has been plagued with multiple facets of systemic oppression, ranging from the inequitable distribution of funds and resources, lack of authentic and relatable curricula programs, lack of quality teachers well versed in culturally relevant pedagogy to the development and implementation of disciplinary measures that quite frankly mimic the nation's incarceration system. The purpose of this chapter is to explore the multi-faceted definitions of equity and equality in depth, along with a comparison as to how the terms converge with another. The chapter then shifts to current inequities in education including an exploration of funding formulas, core standards, the increased use of negative associations, teacher qualifications, as well as school culture and disciplinary climate. The chapter concludes with various recommendations to remedy these issues in an innovative manner that will ultimately benefit students.
Gender, Education, and Careerism
Authors: Swartz Omar , Nunag Tardío Candace
Published: February 2021

The statuses of women as intellectuals and political agents have been devalued due to the ancient prejudice that, because women are able to bear children, they are unsuited for the rigors of professional and/or public life. Arguments made for the subordination of women included natural or divine law, moral necessity, and economic realism; in addition, biologically essentialist reasons suggested that women were physically unable to handle the strain of the man's world of work, both due to their overall constitution and to their presumed “delicate” reproductive functions. It is this last concern, the physiological argument, that the authors study in this chapter, as it is one that people still make today—albeit more subtly; they argue, therefore, that there is a deeply ingrained belief in Western society that there is some sort of natural “conflict” between ovaries and brains, that is, between male and female nature, that makes women less qualified than men for certain jobs or to serve certain roles in society.
Introducing CLIL Modules to Primary School Learners
Authors: Vogt Karin
Published: February 2021

The first steps in bilingual education are often taken in schools by introducing CLIL modules in content subjects. The present study is a longitudinal mixed methods study that explores the perspectives of all relevant stakeholders as well as the learning and teaching perspective at a German primary school that has introduced English CLIL modules. Data was gathered from questionnaires with parents after a year of CLIL instruction (n=120), learner questionnaires (n=240), teacher interviews (n=7), transcribed lessons, as well as parts of a large-scale test that was used for learners at the end of year 4 (n=63), which is the end of primary school in the German context. The data were triangulated in order to make inferences about the perspectives of the different stakeholders in a teaching development process that affects the entire school.
The Role of Delayed Output on Second/Foreign Language Pronunciation in Children
Authors: Ehbara Hana , Young-Scholten Martha , Al-Tamimi Jalal
Published: February 2021

Effective language teaching can provide children with the satisfaction of succeeding in the challenge of learning a foreign language. All these issues must be taken under consideration when researching children and their teachers. Production training is under-investigated in L2 training studies, and despite the small number of studies with adults, there are very few studies of children. Even fewer attempts have been made to compare classroom instruction with computer-assisted training. The results show that output practice has an advantage over delayed production after only three weeks of training particularly in less marked sounds. Findings also show that learning English before the age of puberty does not warrant accent-free pronunciation.
Developing Leaders of Character at the Federal Service Academies
Authors: Tate Thomas L.
Published: February 2021

The chapter provides an overview of the practice of leadership development at the United States Military Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, and the United States Naval Academy. The service-specific mission and core values provide a foundation for a theoretical review of leader, leadership, and human development theories currently implemented at selected service academies. The practical application of these models is then illustrated in an overview of leader and leadership education and training throughout the 47-month academy experience. The chapter concludes with some final thoughts concerning the influence of the military model in traditional colleges, universities, and preparatory schools.
Benefits of Athletics for Military School Students
Authors: Pulos Trishauna , Ryan Mark P.
Published: February 2021

This chapter studies the perception of cadets, alumni, and staff of military schools and colleges (N=220) who responded to a survey about the benefits of interscholastic and intramural athletics for students in military schools and colleges. Overwhelmingly, respondents agreed that both athletics build citizens with good character, foster leadership development, improve academic success metrics and overall personal wellness. Respondents surprisingly perceived athletics as slightly less impactful on fostering integrity and respect as well as on dropout prevention and furthering writing skills. Respondents perceive that interscholastic athletics were more likely to deliver positive returns than intramural athletics, even though most military schools and colleges require participation in intramural athletics, and participation in interscholastic athletics is often optional and based on ability level. Overall, there is a strong perception that participation in athletic activities of any kind offer positive returns for cadets attending military schools and colleges.
Scope of RF MEMS Technology for Microwave Circuits and Systems
Authors: Sundharajan Kanthamani
Published: February 2021

Micro-electro mechanical systems (MEMS) technology has facilitated the need for innovative approaches in the design and development of miniaturized, effective, low-cost radio frequency (RF) microwave circuits and systems. This technology is expected to have significant role in today's 5G applications for the development of reconfigurable architectures. This chapter presents an overview of the evolution of MEMS-based subsystems and devices, especially switches and phased array antennas. This chapter also discusses the key issues in design and analysis of RF MEMS-based devices, particularly with primary emphasis on RF MEMS switches and antennas.
Review on the Development of Solid State Transformer
Authors: Khare Bharat Bhushan , Pathak Rajeev Shankar , Sharma Sanjeev , Singh Vinod Kumar
Published: February 2021

According to future renewable electric energy distribution and management (FREEDM) system, solid state transformers play an important role in smart grid technologies. They have several advantages over conventional transformers such as bi-directional power flow, light in weight, compact size, etc. They also compensate the environmental issues which are created due to transformer oil. Because of various advantages over traditional transformer, SST is preferred widely at the present time. So in this chapter, the various architectures, needs, and applications of solid state transformers are discussed. The global market of SST has continuously improved because it has several applications and benefits.
Use of Virtual Worlds for Development of Social Interaction Skills of Children With Special Needs
Authors: Manzoor Amir
Published: February 2021

At a growing rate, educators are realizing academic potential of virtual world and starting to use them to support the development of social skills and learning of children with special needs (CSN). A virtual world could be integrated into different learning contexts to provide a safe, friendly, and supportive multiuser learning environment for CSN. The objective of this chapter is to explore how educators can leverage shared interests of CSN in virtual world to facilitate their social interaction and how educator and technology support can be used to guide this learning process of CSN.
Role of Technology in Using Artificial Intelligence to Improve Educational Learning Challenges With Reference to India
Authors: Sahai Seema , Khattar Sharad , Goel Richa
Published: February 2021

Artificial education intelligence (AIEd) is one of the emerging educational technological fields. A most logical question which comes up is, Is it possible to ensure quality in higher education? Can use of AI and sister technologies help us deliver in the mission? Will it be able to tackle all or most of shortcomings in the field of education? This study aims in a systematic review to provide an overview of AI applications research in education. Technology use in education and learning has undergone a remarkable transformation in the education sector. In order to accomplish this purpose, a quantitative analysis approach was used by open end questionnaire for a survey of scholars. This chapter examined the possible impacts of artificial intelligence on universities. The empirical findings indicate that the knowledge of AI is declining and there is a need to disperse knowledge of technology in higher education.
Technological Revolution, Transhumanism, and Social Deliberation
Authors: Cuevas-Badallo Ana , Labrador-Montero Daniel
Published: February 2021

The aim of this chapter is to show some of the assumptions that lie behind transhumanism. The concept of enhancement is analyzed. While, from transhumanism, human welfare depends on the enhancement of human capabilities, here it shall be argued that to begin with, a social debate over what is considered welfare is needed before we can establish what we wish to improve (enhance). This reflection must emphasize the necessity to reflect, ex ante, on what kind of technological development we want, viewing technology as a means to attain the agreed-upon type of welfare, rather than a goal in itself. On the basis of a socially open debate with an anticipatory perspective, society as a whole can establish which risks it is willing to take.
Biomechanical Study of Lumbar Spine (L2-L4) Using Hybrid Stabilization Device - A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Jain Pushpdant , Khan Mohammed Rajik
Published: February 2021

Spinal instrumentations have been designed to alleviate lower back pain and stabilize the spinal segments. The present work aims to evaluate the biomechanical effect of the proposed Hybrid Stabilization Device (HSD). Non-linear finite element model of lumbar segment L2-L4 were developed to compare the intact spine (IS) with rigid implant (RI) and hybrid stabilization device. To restrict all directional motion vertebra L4 bottom surface were kept fixed and axial compressive force of 500N with a moment of 10Nm were applied to the top surface of L2 vertebrae. The results of range of motion (ROM), intervertebral disc (IVD) pressure and strains for IVD-23 and IVD-34 were determined for flexion, extension, lateral bending and axial twist. Results demonstrated that ROM of HSD model is higher than RI and lower as compared to IS model. The predicted biomechanical parameters of the present work may be considered before clinical implementations of any implants.
What Is It Like to Be a Cyborg?
Authors: Warwick Kevin
Published: February 2021

In this chapter, the author describes his personal experience in experimenting as a cyborg (part biology/part technology) by having technology implanted in his body, which he lived with over a period. A look is also taken at the author's experiments into creating cyborgs by growing biological brains which are subsequently given a robot body. The experiments are dealt with in separate sections. In each case the nature of the experiment is briefly described along with the results obtained and this is followed by an indication of the experience, including personal feelings and emotions felt in and around the time of the experiments and subsequently as a result of the experiments. Although the subject can be treated scientifically from an external perspective, it is really through individual, personal experience that a true reflection can be gained on what might be possible in the future.
Exocortex as a Learning Technology
Authors: Mutlu Mehmet Emin
Published: February 2021

Exocortex is a hypothetical technology where the human brain can connect to a brain implant or a computational environment which is in the state of a wearable device, using two-way brain-computer interface, in order to augment the cognitive powers of the human brain such as perception, storage, recollection and processing. Exocortex is expected to be a part of everyday life in the 2030s. Exocortex technology is supported by parallel technologies such as brain reading, uploading knowledge into the brain from the outside, brain-computer interface, brain-to-brain interface, which are now undergoing prototype applications. In this study, by discussing the potential of exocortex technology in its use for learning processes, as a result of handling it with the “learning experiences management” approach, the opportunities it provides specifically for lifelong learners are examined. In the results and recommendations section of the study, a foresight is given for the scientific research projects that can be performed for this purpose.
Bioresorbable Composites and Implant
Authors: Zindani Divya
Published: February 2021

Different biomaterials in the form of ceramics, metal alloys, composites, glasses, polymers, etc. have gained wide-range acceptance in the realm of medical sciences. Bioimplants from such biomaterials have been constructed and used widely for different clinical applications. With the continual progress, biomaterials that may be resorbed inside the body have been developed. These have done away with the major challenge of removal of an implant after it has served its intended function. Important factors are taken into consideration in design and development of implants from such biomaterials are mechanical properties, degradation rate, surface modification, rate of corrosion, biocompatibility, and non-toxicity. Given the importance of such materials in clinical applications, the chapter presents an overview of the bioresorable composites and their implants. The related properties and the functions served have been outlined briefly. Further, the challenges associated and the remedies to overcome them have also been delineated.
Biomechanical Properties of Orthopedic and Dental Implants
Authors: Kumar Manjeet , Kumar Rajesh , Kumar Sandeep , Prakash Chander
Published: February 2021

The demand for the orthopedic and dental implants has increased sharply in last decade due to physical traumas and age-related deficiencies. The material used for orthopedic and dental implants should be biocompatible to ensure the adaptability of the implant in the human body. The mechanical stability of implants is dependent on mechanical properties and surface characteristics essential to ensure corrosion and wear resistance. The requirement of mechanical properties also differs substantially from load-bearing to non-load-bearing implants. There are many problems arising due to lack of sufficient biocompatibility, like infection, poor osseointegration, and excessive foreign body response. Fatigue failure, stress shielding, and bone resorption are some major problems associated with lack of mechanical stability. Numerous conventional materials, coatings, and nanomaterials have been used to enhance the implant stability.
Magnetic Nano-Systems in Drug Delivery and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Shetty Saritha R. , Upadhya Archana
Published: February 2021

Nanotechnology is that sphere of technology that involves the participation of biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering sciences. Nanoscale science defines the chemistry and physics of structures lying in the range of 1-100 nm. Among the nanosystems researched, magnetic nanosystems are highlighted due their unique ability, which enables their targeting to specific locations on application of an external magnetic field. The exhibited property of these magnetic nanosystems being super-paramagnetism, there is no retention of magnetic property on removal of the magnetic field, thus enabling a reversion of the targeting process. For effective utilization of these nanosystems, they should be reduced to nanosizes, layered with biocompatible entities, stabilized, and functionalized. In the chapter, synthesis and functionalization and stabilization are elucidated. The biomedical applications such as targeted delivery, MRI, magnetic hyperthermia, tissue engineering, gene delivery, magnetic immunotherapy, magnetic detoxification, and nanomagnetic actuation are discussed.
Importance of Technology in the Days of Coronavirus Pandemic
Authors: Naidu Madhura Kartik
Published: February 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has not only affected the common man's life, but it has also affected many science, space, and technology institutions and government agencies all over the world. It has also resulted in reduced productivity of human beings and affected several organizations and government programs. The normal life of human beings came under a lot of restrictions and pressure due to lockdown. Many people lost their jobs and suffered financially as well as emotionally. The contribution of science and technology in this period of coronavirus crisis is key for facing current health challenges. Technological fields like data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence have majorly contributed towards COVID-19. The present study aims to discuss the advancement and importance of technology used worldwide to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic at different levels.
Automated System for Monitoring and Diagnostics Pilot's Emotional State in Flight
Authors: Shmelova Tetiana , Sikirda Yuliya , Sterenharz Arnold
Published: February 2021

In this article, the system for monitoring of the emotional state changes of the air navigation system's human operator in the extreme situations, based on the using of the prior models of the operator activity which built on the posterior researches of actual material of the aviation accidents investigations, has been proposed. The stability of aviation man-machine system “human-operator – aircraft” during the deformations of the operator's emotional experience has been defined according to the Nyquist criterion. A computer program for diagnostics of the emotional state of the human operator has been developed. The system based on monitoring of the current emotional state of the air navigation system's human operator and diagnostics of the deformations of emotional experience with the determination of the operator's functional stability will allow preventing the development of potentially hazardous flight situations towards worsening in a proactive manner.
Towards Higher Software Quality in Very Small Entities
Authors: Buchalcevova Alena
Published: February 2021

This paper focuses on software and systems process improvement in small companies, for which the ISO/IEC 29110 series systems and software lifecycle profiles for very small entities (VSEs) has been developed and started to be implemented worldwide. The ISO/IEC 29110 series consists of VSE profiles. The most implemented profile worldwide has been the software basic profile. Published experience gained from the pilot projects and software basic profile implementations showed that software quality and testing are not sufficiently covered. In order to improve the effects of the implementation of the ISO/IEC 29110 software basic profile and increase the quality of a developed software product, the aim of this research is to provide process mapping between the ISO/IEC 29110 software basic profile and selected test improvement approaches, particularly the ISO/IEC/IEEE 29119-2 and ISO/IEC 20246 testing standards, and TMMi. The results of the mapping are presented in the form of the mapping tables and the ArchiMate model.
Successful Use of Knowledge-Based Systems for Collaboration in Higher Education
Authors: Osman Nour Eldin Mohamed Elshaiekh , Fadlalla Musa Ali
Published: February 2021

Knowledge-based systems are forms of computerized tools designed specially to help in many aspects specifically in collaboration activities. Despite the importance of these tools in generating, exchanging, and sharing the information and knowledge, many institutions, especially educational ones, are not interested in them, because of insufficient knowledge of the role of knowledge-based systems and their effectiveness in the academic events. The basic purposes of this paper are to find the role of knowledge-based systems collaboration tools (KBSCT) in higher educational institutions and to recognize in what way institution and student performance are affected by implementing KBSCT. The research questionnaires distributed to 100 participants, but only 67 were used and included in the frequency analysis. The results added a contribution in terms of identifying how the KBSCT effect on the higher educational institution and student's decisions.
Optical Properties of ZnO, TiO2 and ZnO:TiO2 Composite Films
Authors: Rashid Affa Rozana Abdul , Tazri Hani Khaliesah
Published: February 2021

We report a fabrication and characterization of ZnO, TiO2 and ZnO:TiO2 composite thin films. The films were prepared on glass substrates by using the dip coating sol-gel method. ZnO was synthesized by using Zinc acetate dehydrated, glacial acetic acid and ethanol. Meanwhile, TiO2 was prepared by using titanium isopropoxide, acetic acid, isopropyl alcohol and methanol. The single sols were mixed with fixed molarity of 0.2 mol to obtain ZnO:TiO2 composite films. The optical properties of metal oxide, such as transmittance, absorbance and band gap were determined using UV-Vis spectrometer. FTIR was used to determine the chemical bonds of the materials. ZnO has the highest transmittance spectra (91%), followed by TiO2 (70%) and ZnO:TiO2 (35%) composite films. The absorbance edge shifted to the longer wavelength for ZnO:TiO2 composite film. The energy band gap of ZnO, TiO2 and ZnO: TiO2 composite were 3.8 eV, 3.6 eV and 3.5 eV, respectively.
Online Quiz as a Formative Assessment Tool for Undergraduate Medical Students in Medical Biochemistry
Authors: Das S.
Published: February 2021

No abstract available
Reflections and Perceptions of Online Teaching and Learning in Dentistry during COVID-19
Authors: Peedikayil F. C.
Published: February 2021

Background: COVID-19 has affected the normal education process all over the world. Today the classes are conducted through online platforms. Therefore a study was conducted to find out the perceptions of dental students and faculty about the online classes. Methods: Online questionnaire was prepared separately for students and faculty members and was sent to different social media groups and email. The 15 point questionnaire consisted of questions about mode, time of use, satisfaction levels, and overall perceptions of online teaching/ learning apart from the basic demographic details of the participants. Results: 1550 complete responses from students and 380 responses from faculties were considered. More than 90% of teachers and students are satisfied with online learning/teaching in the present scenario. Among the faculty and students, there is no statistical difference in the perception of online classes. Conclusion: The need of the hour in this pandemic situation is the continuation of academic activities. Online education has been well accepted by both faculty and students of dentistry.
Mounted Police stations and patrols
Authors:   Department of Energy, Mines and Resources Canada
Published: February 2021

Contained within the Historical Maps, 1639 to 1949, Atlas of Canada map series, is a reproduction of an 1888 map compiled by Surveys and Mapping Branch of Energy Mines and Resources [now Natural Resources Canada] to commemorate the 1973 centenary of the RCMP. The
map shows stations and patrol routes in the North-West Territories during 1888. The area covered corresponds to present-day southeastern Alberta and southern Saskatchewan. The map has a great deal of information about Indian lands, showing treaty areas, Indian reserves, and giving populations on the
reserves.
Model Prediction for In-Hospital Mortality in Patients with COVID-19: A Case–Control Study in Isfahan, Iran
Authors: Abdollahpour Ibrahim , Aguilar-Palacio Isabel , Gonzalez-Garcia Juan , Vaseghi Golnaz , Otroj Zahra , Manteghinejad Amirreza , Mosayebi Azam , Salimi Yahya , Haghjooy Javanmard Shaghayegh
Published: February 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has now imposed an enormous global burden as well as a large mortality in a short time period. Although there is no promising treatment, identification of early predictors of in-hospital mortality would be critically important in reducing its worldwide mortality. We aimed to suggest a prediction model for in-hospital mortality of COVID-19. In this case–control study, we recruited 513 conﬁrmed patients with COVID-19 from February 18 to March 26, 2020 from Isfahan COVID-19 registry. Based on extracted laboratory, clinical, and demographic data, we created an in-hospital mortality predictive model using gradient boosting. We also determined the diagnostic performance of the proposed model including sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) as well as their 95% CIs. Of 513 patients, there were 60 (11.7%) in-hospital deaths during the study period. The diagnostic values of the suggested model based on the gradient boosting method with oversampling techniques using all of the original data were specificity of 98.5% (95% CI: 96.8–99.4), sensitivity of 100% (95% CI: 94–100), negative predictive value of 100% (95% CI: 99.2–100), positive predictive value of 89.6% (95% CI: 79.7–95.7), and an AUC of 98.6%. The suggested model may be useful in making decision to patient’s hospitalization where the probability of mortality may be more obvious based on the final variable. However, moderate gaps in our knowledge of the predictors of in-hospital mortality suggest further studies aiming at predicting models for in-hospital mortality in patients with COVID-19.
High SARS-CoV-2 Seroprevalence in Healthcare Workers in Bukavu, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Mukwege Denis , Byabene Aline Kusinza , Akonkwa Eric Mungu , Dahma Hafid , Dauby Nicolas , Cikwanine Buhendwa Jean-Paul , Le Coadou Anne , Montesinos Isabel , Bruyneel Marie , Cadière Guy-Bernard , Vandenberg Olivier , Van Laethem Yves
Published: February 2021

Among 359 healthcare workers (HCW) employed in Panzi General Referral Hospital located in Bukavu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 148 (41.2%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Thirty-three (22.3%) of the 148 personnel with positive serology reported symptoms evoking a prior COVID-19 illness. None of the infected HCWs reported COVID-related hospitalization, and all of them recovered. Our findings indicate high and underestimated circulation of SARS-CoV-2 within the Bukavu area.
Comparing 2 Approaches for the File Review of Residency Applications
Authors: Gawad Nada , Younan Julia , Towaij Chelsea , Raiche Isabelle
Published: February 2021

Background

The residency selection process relies on subjective information in applications, as well as subjective assessment of applications by reviewers. This inherent subjectivity makes residency selection prone to poor reliability between those reviewing files.

Objectives

We compared the interrater reliability of 2 assessment tools during file review: one rating applicant traits (ie, leadership, communication) and the other using a global rating of application elements (ie, curriculum vitae, reference letters).

Methods

Ten file reviewers were randomized into 2 groups, and each scored 7 general surgery applications from the 2019–2020 cycle. The first group used an element-based (EB) scoring tool, while the second group used a trait-based (TB) scoring tool. Feedback was collected, discrimination capacities were measured using variation in scores, and interrater reliability (IRR) was calculated using intraclass correlation (ICC) in a 2-way random effects model.

Results

Both tools identified the same top-ranked and bottom-ranked applicants; however, discrepancies were noted for middle-ranked applicants. The score range for the 5 middle-ranked applicants was greater with the TB tool (6.43 vs 3.80), which also demonstrated fewer tie scores. The IRR for TB scoring was superior to EB scoring (ICC [2, 5] = 0.82 vs 0.55). The TB tool required only 2 raters to achieve an ICC ≥ 0.70.

Conclusions

Using a TB file review strategy can facilitate file review with improved reliability compared to EB, and a greater spread of candidate scores. TB file review potentially offers programs a feasible way to optimize and reflect their institution's core values in the process.
Exploring the Collaborative Integration of Service Providers in the New Product Development Process of Automobile Manufacturers
Authors:   , Mehrle Peter T.
Published: February 2021

This Doctorate of Business Administration thesis examines the collaborative integration of engineering service providers (ESPs) in the new product development (NPD) process of automobile manufacturers. Through 11 qualitative key informant interviews with leading suppliers and buyers and the analysis of two case studies with a total of 22 interviewees, the explorative study analyses collaboration models, risks, motives, barriers and best practice guidelines for the identified two most important cooperation models in the field. The thesis draws on the literature of NPD processes, collaborative NPD, early supplier involvement, knowledge management, and relationship management in the automotive sector. The theory provides an introduction and serves as a basis for the developed guideline model. The provided best practice guidelines, sorted into the categories of ‘people’, ‘process’, ‘collaboration technology’, and ‘product technology’, are expected to improve collaboration in the joint NPD of complex products or technologies if these are applied by the management. Thus, the guideline model serves as a managerial tool to set priorities in the different phases of joint development, facilitate joint activities, and optimize NPD efficiency. Insights from this research are broadly applicable in the context of outsourced development of highly complex products or technologies to service providers. The thesis concludes with the discussion of its contribution to practice and theory and with an outlook on future developments in the ESP market.
Analysis and Detection of Nephrolithiasis using Imaging Techniques
Authors: Tripathy Smiti , Sivakumar R , Nair Simran , Inbamalar TM
Published: February 2021

Nephrolithiasis (kidney stone) is a disease which affects 7% of females and 11% of males at some stage in their life. Early identification of Nephrolithiasis is necessary to avoid complications. Imaging techniques form the basis for the detection of kidney stones and aid in locating the position, size, and the number of stones present in the renal structure. This paper reports an extensive analysis of recent trends in the detection of Nephrolithiasis using Imaging techniques. Since Computed Tomography (CT) and ultrasound imaging are commonly used in the medical field, analysis of both the methods is considered in this paper. The detailed study on various methodologies and algorithms that have been adopted on CT and ultrasound images in recent years in locating kidney stones, finding the exact size of the stones based on pixel count, enhancing image quality, obtaining better de-speckling, faster segmentation, and pre-processing of the renal images has been carried out. Based on the analysis, an artificial intelligence-based approach is proposed that will aid the medical practitioner for faster, accurate detection of Nephrolithiasis and a technique to reduce the exposure of radiation in Computed Tomography Imaging. Further, it is concluded that ultrasound techniques can be employed subsequently for preliminary diagnosis through CT if the medical practitioner recommends.
Code-switching in Jamaica Creole: Some Educational Implications
Authors: Pollard Velma
Published: February 2021

The importance to educational practice of linguistic research in the Caribbean has never been underplayed. Although linguistic descriptions have a validity all their own, it is in their application to educational practice that they can best serve our societies. Bailey, in the conclusion to her definitive work "Jamaica Creole Syntax", comments that the work should help "provide the basis for a thorough comparative study of the two languages on which alone satisfactory English language texts for the island's schools should be based." This paper hopes to look at the phenomenon of code-switching in Jamaican Creole by examining in detail certain actual speech situations, with a view to discovering how the classroom operation can benefit from first-hand knowledge of how situations tend to condition the individual's choice of speech style.
The Shock of the New: The Origin of the Age of Aquarius and the 2012 Phenomenon
Authors: Campion Nicholas
Published: February 2021

The recent attention paid to the prophecy that December 2012 was to be a pivotal moment in world history has renewed interest in the relationship between astronomy and apocalyptic ideas. This paper examines the background to the ‘2012 Phenomenon’ by exploring the origins of the idea of the Age of Aquarius. It concludes that the Age is best understood as a means of objectifying the prediction of a future golden age by reference to measurable astronomical certainties. In line with the revolutionary traditions of western millenarianism, the Aquarian Age is counter-cultural and opposed to political and religious authorities.
The Resistance Training Reverses Insulin Resistance in Rats with Periodontitis
Authors: Mota Max Sander de Oliveira da , Mattera Maria Sara de Lima Coutinho , Tsosura Thaís Verônica Saori , Chiba Fernando Yamamoto , Pereira Renato Felipe , Bonilha Jéssica Cristiane , Ervolino Edilson , Belardi Bianca Elvira , Santos Rodrigo Martins dos , Tavares Bruna Soares , Dourado Nayara Gabriely , Carnevalli Ana Carolina Nascimento , Santelli Julia Ogata , Sampaio Heloisa Macedo , Oliveira Renan Akira Fujii de , Matsushita Doris Hissako
Published: February 2021

The present study, aimed to evaluate the effects of resistance training (RT) on glycemia, insulinemia, insulin sensitivity, insulin signaling (IS), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels in rats with periodontitis. 40 male Wistar rats were distributed into 4 groups: sedentary control group (SCN), exercised control group (ExCN), sedentary ligature-induced periodontal disease group (SPD), and exercised ligature-induced periodontal disease group (ExPD). 28 days after inducing periodontitis the RT started (14-week). Glycemia, insulin, TNF-α levels, and insulin sensitivity were analyzed using various methods. IS was evaluated by measuring tyrosine phosphorylated pp185 in insulin-sensitive tissues (western blot method). Higher levels of insulin, HOMA-IR, and TNF-α, and a decrease in insulin sensitivity were observed in the SPD group, which also had decreased levels of insulin-stimulated tyrosine phosphorylated pp185 in muscle and adipose tissue, when compared to the other groups. The ExPD group had increased levels of insulin-stimulated tyrosine phosphorylated pp185 compared to the SPD group, but showed no significant difference when compared to the SCN and ExCN groups. RT reversed both the insulin resistance (IR) and the IS alterations in rats with induced periodontitis, and decreased the insulin and TNF-α levels. Therefore, the results of show the importance of RT in preventing or reversing IR in rats with periodontitis.
Del administrado al ciudadano: cuarenta años de evolución
Authors: López Menudo Francisco
Published: February 2021

El cuadragésimo aniversario de la Constitución española de 1978 ha propiciado la aparición de numerosos estudios sobre su impacto en muchísimos aspectos. Los indudables avances del texto constitucional en materia de libertades, derechos fundamentales y, en suma, sobre la posición del individuo en el sistema y frente al poder, se hace patente en el acento que la Constitución pone en la figura del “ciudadano” que se erige así en una idea central que trata de conectar con la noción de Estado de Derecho, como ocurriera en su origen histórico. Desde este realce, la doctrina suele predicar su fuerte contraste con el concepto de "administrado” tan implantado antes de la Constitución. Pero el presente estudio viene a relativizar la fuerza de esa presunta contraposición, subrayando el acierto de que la Constitución misma haya insertado en su texto ambos conceptos.
Nulidad de reglamentos y actos administrativos por contrariar sentencias
Authors: Rebollo Puig Manuel
Published: February 2021

La Ley de la Jurisdicción Contencioso-Administrativa introdujo como causa de nulidad la contradicción de sentencias para permitir que fuese declarada en ejecución de sentencia. No obstante, esa causa de nulidad, cuyo alcance no es del todo claro, puede declararse por otras vías. Aquí se exponen las circunstancias y los requisitos para que pueda ser declarada. También los cauces procedimentales en que puede ser alegada con éxito, cauces que no son sólo los de la ejecución de sentencias. Todo ello se aborda para que esta causa de nulidad sirva de refuerzo al derecho a la tutela judicial efectiva pero al mismo tiempo tratando de evitar excesos que lleven a la ejecución lo que no es propio de ella.
Instrumentos para la contratación pública estratégica: el ciclo de vida de los productos y servicios y su coste
Authors: Rozados Oliva Manuel Jesús
Published: February 2021

En la última reforma en el ámbito de la contratación pública se ha producido una evolución en el planteamiento de la utilización estratégica de la misma. Dentro de los nuevos esquemas que la legislación europea y española pretenden imponer, se incorporan dos instrumentos ya existentes en el ordenamiento jurídico, pero que cobran un nuevo protagonismo: el ciclo de vida y el coste del ciclo de vida de los productos o servicios. Tradicionalmente considerados como dos elementos propios de la incorporación de cláusulas ambientales en el marco de la contratación pública, su virtualidad va más allá de su dimensión ambiental, constituyendo dos herramientas relevantes para el desarrollo de la contratación pública estratégica.
Hacia una gobernanza de las áreas marinas protegidas. Estado de la cuestión y algunos retos a vencer
Authors: Soro Mateo Blanca
Published: February 2021

El presente estudio quiere compartir algunas reflexiones del análisis sobre marco jurídico de la gobernanza de las áreas marinas protegidas, como parte de un estudio interdisciplinar consistente en la elaboración de una Estrategia de gobernanza para los espacios marinos de la Red Natura 2000 en el marco del Proyecto LIFE INDEMARES. Una vez detectados los retos a los que se enfrenta la gobernanza de las áreas marinas se plantean propuestas de lege ferenda para la mejor ordenación del espacio marítimo, teniendo en cuenta la necesaria coordinación entre la implementación de los instrumentos jurídicos contemplados en la normativa reguladora de las AMPS con los derivados de la normativa sobre recursos y actividades que se desarrollan en el mar, todo ello en el marco de la más omnicomprensiva Política Marítima Europea reguladora de la ordenación del espacio marítimo.