bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Idiomaticity in CALL
Authors: Liontas John I.
Published: July 2019

The primary aim of this chapter is to investigate the effectiveness of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) technologies, tools, and resources for figurative language in general and idiom learning in particular. The secondary aim is to explore the CALL training practices affecting the attainment of idiomaticity in English as a second or foreign language. Idiomaticity training is anchored in an online methodology of idiomaticity teaching that takes into account learners' interests and active involvement. Such focus is particularly useful for the purposes of diagnosis and achievement, and the research to date is a promising start to further work on idiomaticity. The chapter provides recommendations for idiomaticity training-and-teaching as well as time-tested practices for further theorizing and research. It is hoped that the practices and recommendations explored here will spur on more research in this vein. Pedagogical and research implications are also discussed.
Blogging Effect on English as a Foreign Language Writing Motivation
Authors: Özdemir Emrah , Aydin Selami
Published: July 2019

Not many studies have been present on the effects of blogging, particularly with respect to English as a Foreign Language (EFL) writing motivation. Those studies did not focus on the effect of the use of blogs on Turkish EFL learners' writing motivation. Thus, this study aims to examine how the use of blogs affects EFL writing motivation among EFL learners in a Turkish EFL learning context. A questionnaire interrogating demographic information, a pre-test and a post-tests measuring writing achievement were administered to a group of participants including 48 language learners. According to results, blogging on its own does not increase motivation; however, the process-based writing instruction mainly has positive influences on EFL learners' motivation in both traditional pen-paper and blog environments. Thus, EFL teachers need to know that the use of blogs does not increase motivation among Turkish EFL learners. To increase their motivation level, it is also recommended that teachers should use a writing environment where their students are encouraged to write in the target language.
Integrating Culture in Language Preparatory Programs
Authors: Mede Enisa , Cansever Zeynep Mutlu
Published: July 2019

This chapter aims to investigate the role of culture in English Language Preparatory Programs in Turkey. Specifically, the chapter attempts to gain insights on what types of culture teaching activities native and non-native English instructors use in their classroom, find out if there is any difference between the two groups of participants and lastly, identify to what extent they implement culture in their teaching practices.. The sample population of this study were 95 (44 native and 51 non-native) EFL instructors working in the preparatory program. Data were collected from a questionnaire, semi-structured interviews and classroom observations. The findings revealed that both groups of instructors agreed that language and culture are closely related and that culture should be integrated in classrooms frequently to help students to become intercultural speakers as well as become more competent in how to develop a relationship with people of other languages and cultures.
Students' Perspectives on Using Online Sources and Apps for EFL Learning in the Mobile-Assisted Language Learning Context
Authors: Zou Bin , Yan Xinxin , Li Hui
Published: July 2019

Mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) has been developed rapidly and integrated into language learning in various levels in recent years, particularly for the young generation. Many previous studies reveal that young learners have autonomous learning in using online sources or apps in the MALL context. However, not many studies in China have examined Chinese students' use of MALL. Therefore, this chapter investigates how Chinese college students perceived their use of mobile devices for English as a foreign language (EFL) learning. It was based on two small studies and focused on using online sources and mobile apps for EFL learning on learners' mobile devices. Participants were 166 students from 21 universities in China. Research tools consisted of questionnaires and interviews. The findings demonstrate a high motivation among the participants in using online sources and apps for EFL learning on their mobile devices. The results also showed the impact of different regions on students' attitudes toward MALL. Mobile apps that are related to EFL class context could enhance students' EFL learning.
Using Telecollaboration 2.0 to Build Intercultural Communicative Competence
Authors: Lee Lina
Published: July 2019

This chapter reports a Spanish-American telecollaborative project through which students created blogs, VoiceThread presentations, and video chats for intercultural exchanges over the course of one semester. The chapter outlines the methodology for the project including pedagogical objectives, task design, selection of Web 2.0 tools, and implementation. Using qualitative data collection, the study explored the extent to which Web 2.0-mediated learning could contribute to learners' intercultural communicate competence (ICC) development. The findings revealed that students exhibited the skills outlined in Byram's ICC model. Students showed positive attitudes and curiosity towards the target culture, and gained new cultural knowledge. They also demonstrated skills of discovery and interaction that helped them build critical cultural awareness. The study suggests that learners' ICC can be assessed by the implementation of a well-designed telecollaborative exchange using Web 2.0 technologies.
Practice of Green Marketıng Activities in the Organic Agricultural Sector in Turkey
Authors: Asoğlu Veysel , Şengün Halil İbrahim
Published: July 2019

Requests and needs are not static in a growing and changing world. On the contrary, they can develop and change with the effect of both environmental and internal factors. Green marketing is the request of social civilization. One of the effects of this growing interest in environmental markets in Turkey and the rest of the world can be seen in the move towards organic agriculture. The main purposes of this study are to define organic agriculture as described by environmental marketers and as practised in the agricultural sector, and to explore the current condition of organic agriculture in Turkey and the rest of the world. Subsequently, organic agriculture and the main problems in its related sectors will be discussed and suggestions for solutions will be given. Suggestions will be given that include political, as well as research and development and training programs that are related to improving organic agriculture and increasing organic exports.
Rights of Nature to Protect Human Rights in Times of Environmental Crisis
Authors: Borràs Susana
Published: July 2019

The well-being of humans and nature are inextricably linked. Nature is particularly mistreated in light of its characterization as merely “property” to be bought, sold, and ultimately degraded for profit. Reinforcing this misperception is the fact that modern environmental laws themselves implicitly accept this claim of “nature as property.” They legalize nature's destruction by dictating how much of the environment can be exploited and degraded, rather than as an integral ecological partner with its own rights to exist and thrive. Instead, we need laws grounded in the inherent rights of natural world to exist, thrive, and evolve. The article focuses on the transition from the ‘right to the environment' to a biocentric approach constructed around ‘rights of nature.' This transition is evident in various new legal instruments, which serve as models for legal systems that can steer us towards more robust and effective environmental laws.
The Impact of Kisan Call Centers on the Farming Sector
Authors: Chachra Kartik , Seelam Gowtham , Singh Harshit , Sarkar Mayukh , Jain Anshul , Jain Ankush
Published: July 2019

The Indian Agriculture has been an area with varied challenges. This sector is responsible for the growth rate and generating a per capita income. This sector generates a whopping 28% of the total GDP of India and over 15% of the total exports. The usage of Internet and phone technology can fill these gaps to a large extent. A continuous two way interaction among the farmers and agricultural scientists will ensure agricultural extension. A landmark step was taken on January 21, 2004 when the Department of Agriculture & Cooperation, launched Kisan Call Centers (KCC) with the help of the extensive telecom industry to deliver extension services to the farming community. The main purpose of these call centers is to answer the queries raised by the farmers in their local language, on continuous basis. At present the Kisan Call Centers are running from 14 locations all over India. In this chapter, we are trying to analyze how this strategy to help the farming community was introduced and how it is being implemented.
Appropriate Extension Methodologies for Agricultural Development in Emerging Economies
Authors: Famuyiwa B. S. , Olaniyi O. A. , Adesoji S. A.
Published: July 2019

Over two-thirds of the world's poorest people are located in rural areas and engaged primarily in agriculture and agricultural-related activities for their livelihood. Therefore, the future of most underdeveloped and developing nations depends on agriculture. Most African Countries have agricultural dependent economies that are hinged to rain-fed agriculture and based on smallholdings. These countries are referred to as countries with emerging economies and characterized as having low to middle per capita income and represent 20% of the world's economies. This chapter discusses; concepts of agricultural extension methodologies assessed from past to present, appropriating extension methodologies to encourage agricultural development, identifying roles of agricultural extension activities in agricultural development and factors influencing the choice of appropriate extension methodologies in emerging economies. It concludes with the constraints to sustainable agricultural development and extension methodologies which if removed will have the potential for progression towards economy development. Developing countries should fashion a sustainable extension system that will be socially acceptable and culturally compatible, economically viable and environmentally friendly.
Industrial Wastewater Management in the Context of Climate Change Adaptation in Selected Cities of India
Authors: Hiremath Rahul , Kumar Bimlesh , Bansode Sheelratan S. , Nulkar Gurudas , Patil Sharmila S. , Murali J.
Published: July 2019

Climate change and wastewater control are one of the foremost demanding situations for Indian cities. Urbanization and unparalleled growth of cities across India continue to create immense pressure on land and water resources. This uncontrolled growth continues to produce growing volumes of wastewater. Climate change, impacts inclusive of, intense storm events in summer time or extended moist periods in wintry weather are quite visible in India. In urban and peri-urban areas, wastewater use for agriculture is an emerging precedence. Due to susceptible enforcement of regulatory, most of the wastewater generated is permitted off untreated/ partially treated. While many previous studies have checked out the global modifications and associated impacts of climatic variations on water resources, few have targeted at the evaluation of the particular effects and adaptation priorities for water systems in towns. Proper reuse of wastewater for irrigation will significantly lessen the shortage, offer a sustainable water source, improving farming productiveness, lessen pollution, generate livelihood potential for low earnings city households along with contributing to their each day food needs. There are tradeoffs which need to understand which includes problems to individual's health, and surroundings. Through suitable treatment methods, water users' cooperatives, policy shift and the introduction of market based approaches, treated wastewater use in agriculture can be enhanced and all associated risks can also be curtailed. This chapter focuses on use of treated urban wastewater and its management for agriculture in selected Indian cities.
Making Agricultural Learning Accessible
Authors: Bello Julia , Lutomia Anne Namatsi , Abbott Eric , Mazur Robert , Mocumbe Sostino , Pittendrigh Barry R.
Published: July 2019

Worldwide women play an important role in agriculture but they still are marginalized in extension education programs. Traditionally, male-dominated extension services may contribute to gender bias in terms of access to information, participation, implementation and innovation. Limitations women face in accessing extension programs are related to social and cultural constructions. Recently, mobile phone technology has facilitated the work of extension agents and has provided participants new resources to improve their yields; nevertheless, farmer productivity in Mozambique varies between genders. This paper illustrates how agricultural messages designed as animations, and delivered via smartphones result in learning for farmers better than traditional extension presentations. This chapter focuses on the creation of educational materials by Scientific Animations Without Borders (SAWBO), and then illuminates the gaps and solutions related to gender agricultural learning. Lastly, a case study of Mozambican gender agricultural learning using animations is presented.
Simulation-Based Approaches for Ecological Niche Modelling
Authors: Chakraborty Anusheema , Joshi P K
Published: July 2019

Over recent years, many modelling approaches have been used to map and monitor both present and potential distribution of species in the context of ecological niche-based conservation, especially in the face of global environmental change. Using different statistical techniques in a built-in geographic information system (GIS), the development of predictive species distribution models has extensively increased. This chapter introduces a geospatial reference to simulation-based approaches of ecological niche models. The chapter discusses various environmental modeling tools and simulation models available in open source domain used by scientific communities. As an effort of this chapter, we focus on the potential of using such experimental models for large-scale ecosystem modelling studies, highlighting opportunities of research, for a variety of bio-geographical applications. It would serve as a basis for beginners in ecology exploring this field of research, who can further contribute and develop such models to better understand the complex field of ecosystem studies.
The Use of Complementary Virtual and Real Scientific Models to Engage Students in Inquiry
Authors: Feldman Allan , Nation Molly , Smith Glenn Gordon , Besalti Metin
Published: July 2019

This chapter reports on a four-year study to change how climate change science is taught and learned in schools. The goal of the Climate Change Narrative Game Education (CHANGE) project is to take what is known about reform-based practices, incorporating students' lived experiences into the curriculum, and the integration of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) into the classroom. CHANGE uses the following: scientifically realistic text narratives (text stories with local characters, 50-100 years in the future, a local, place-based approach, a focus on the built environment, the use of simulations and games based on scientific data, and a web-based “intermedia” eBook narrative where sections of narrative text alternate with simulations and computer games. The chapter reports on the ways that we have used the above principles to connect classrooms and communities and school science with academic science to facilitate student inquiry into climate science by combining virtual serious educational games with in class, hands-on inquiry using scientific models.
Does Nonfarm Income Affect Agricultural Income and Investment in Pakistan?
Authors: Khan Zia Ullah , ul Haq Zahoor , Khan Khalid , Ishaq Muhammad , Wahid Fazli
Published: July 2019

The study investigates the impact of nonfarm income (NFI) on agricultural income and investment using the Pakistan Social and Living Measurement survey data for the year 2005-06. Results show that NFI negatively affects agricultural income and investment whenever it is statistically significant; and these effects are not same across the four provinces of Pakistan. The one to one comparison between the four provinces of the country shows that the effects of NFI on agricultural income and investment differ across provinces. The policy implication is that as compared to other sectors of the economy, agriculture generates low returns and consequently NFI is invested in other more productive sectors of the economy.
Environmental Change and the Emergence of Infectious Diseases
Authors: Confalonieri Ulisses , Menezes Júlia Alves , Margonari Carina
Published: July 2019

In South America in the past decades several infectious diseases have emerged or re-emerged either as part of larger pandemics or as local processes involving autochthonous pathogens. These included arthropod-borne viral diseases, such as Dengue Fever, Chikungunya and Zika as well as viral hemorrhagic fevers, such as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, Junin, Machupo and Guanarito viruses. Parasitic disease was also important such as Malaria, endemic in the northern part of the continent, Leishmaniasis and Chagas Disease. Carrion disease, a bacterial infection originally from the Andes region, also seems to be expanding geographically. Several social and environmental processes have contributed to the emergence of these pathogens, including human migration, deforestation, road and dam building and climate shifts. Due to its high biological diversity of wildlife, arthropods and virus species in still untouched natural ecosystems in the Amazon has the greatest regional potential for the emergence of new human infections.
Information Need and Seeking Behavior of Farmers in Laduba Community of Kwara State, Nigeria
Authors: Akande Femi Titus , Adewojo Akinade Adebowale
Published: July 2019

The chapter present the report of a study that examined information needs and seeking haviour of farmers in Laduba community, Kwara State, Nigeria. This study adopted a survey research design using simple sampling technique to select 28 respondents from the population. Structured questionnaire was designed for the collection of data. It was discovered from the findings that majority of the farmers were illiterate of the middle aged group between 31-40. The farmers plant many crops, but it is noticeable that the farmers plant cassava mostly, the area which the farmers indicated they need information most is on agriculture, it was also observed that the farmers access information from colleagues (co-farmers), friends and relatives, agricultural extension workers. The information needs of the farmers in this study on agriculture includes how to prevent diseases for their crops on the farm and after harvesting, the farmers also stated that they need information on how to seek for loan, where to get the best market to sell their farm produce and how to get the best agro-chemical for effective use. In this study it was discovered that the challenges the farmers face in acquiring information includes, the inability to read and write in English language, lack of constant electricity supply, conflict among members of various associations and lack of access to agricultural extension workers. It is recommended that the farmers should be given effective adult education, provision of information centre with necessary personnel and information media to boost information accessibility. Also the government was encouraged to negotiate with mobile telecommunication operators to subsidize services so that the farmers who form majority in the rural areas can access information and communicate easily through their mobile phones.
Nitrate, Total Ammonia, and Total Suspended Sediments Modeling for the Mobile River Watershed
Authors: Alarcon Vladimir J. , Sassenrath Gretchen F.
Published: July 2019

This paper presents details of a water quality model of the Mobile River watershed that estimates total suspended sediments at the outlet of the watershed. The model is capable of simulating Nitrate (NO3), Total Ammonia (TAM), and Total Suspended Sediments (TSS) for extended periods of time at a daily temporal resolution (1970-1995). The Hydrological Simulation Program Fortran is used for modeling the hydrological, nitrogenous constituents, and sediment processes. Based on the nutrient simulation and exploration of the effects of two management practices (filter strips and stream bank stabilization and fencing) on nutrient removal, the resulting sediment model is used to implement the most efficient nutrient management practice and explore its effects on TSS concentrations in the Mobile River. Results show that the implementation of the management practice “stream bank stabilization and fencing” to agricultural lands in sub-watersheds that had intense agricultural activities produced the highest reductions of NO3 concentration (up to 14.06%) and TAM concentrations (8.01%). Based on the nutrient simulation and identification of “stream bank stabilization and fencing” as the most efficient BMP for nutrient concentration reduction, the sediment model was used to explore its effects on TSS concentrations in the Mobile River. Implementing “stream bank stabilization and fencing” produced monthly median TSS concentration reductions ranging from 3.6% to 10.6% in the Mobile River.
Impact of Overpopulation on Land Use Pattern
Authors: Garg Shivani
Published: July 2019

Overpopulation does not depend only on the size or density of the population, but on the ratio of population to available sustainable resources. It also depends on how resources are managed and distributed throughout the population. Overpopulation is one of the hazards and serious problem, which creates a great obstacle in the way of national development. It is estimated that growth in human population affect the global land use pattern available for agriculture, forest land cover, nearby area of different type of water bodies. The rapid increase of human population is putting extraordinary pressure on our natural resources available e.g. land, water, ecosystem services etc. The purpose of this chapter is to highlight the various environmental implications of overpopulation and rural-urban migration which in turns affect the land use pattern of world. Deforestation and loss of ecosystems that sustain global atmospheric oxygen and carbon dioxide balance is also another implication.
Sustainability, Environmental Sustainability, and Sustainable Tourism
Authors: Kasemsap Kijpokin
Published: July 2019

This chapter reveals the overview of sustainability; the overview of environmental sustainability; environmental sustainability and climate change; environmental sustainability, water resources, and energy consumption; and the overview of sustainable tourism. Sustainability is the important issue that attempts to bridge social science with civic engineering and environmental science with the technology of the future. Environmental sustainability is important because it ensures people have water and resources, and adopting its practices protects the environment and human health. Sustainable tourism is a growing segment of the global tourism industry that makes the positive contributions to the environmental, socio-cultural, and economic well-being of destinations and local communities around the world. Sustainability, environmental sustainability, and sustainable tourism are rooted in three issues that are considerably linked to fossil fuel depletion, climate change due to carbon dioxide emissions, and the increasing costs of energy and water.
Improving Surface Integrity Using Laser Metal Deposition Process
Authors: Mahamood Rasheedat M. , Akinlabi Esther T. , Shukla Mukul , Pityana Sisa
Published: July 2019

Laser Metal Deposition (LMD), an additive manufacturing process (also known as 3-D printing) and a non-traditional fabrication process used for improving the surface integrity of components is presented in this chapter. In LMD, parts are manufactured directly from the 3-D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) model data. Complex parts can be produced in a single step, which is impossible with the traditional manufacturing methods such as casting, cutting, and turning operations. The major steps required in the production of parts using the laser metal deposition process are highlighted. The flexibility offered by the LMD technique makes it an important surface engineering technique. Composite parts or parts whose surfaces are made of composite materials can also be produced in a single step because two or more dissimilar materials can be handled simultaneously in the LMD process to produce parts. This is because the building of parts in LMD is achieved by the LMD machine following the detail described by the CAD model of the part being made. The processing parameters affecting the properties of laser metal deposited parts are described in detail. This chapter establishes the ability of the LMD in the production of complex and one of its kind parts, its ability to improve surface properties, repair high-valued parts, and reduce the buy-to-fly ratio in the production of aerospace parts. It also highlights the use of non-traditional finishing techniques on laser deposited parts to further improve the surface integrity of components. The chapter is concluded by presenting a laser metal deposited Ti6Al4V/TiC composite. The laser metal deposited Ti6Al4V/TiC composite was characterized through the microstructure, microhardness, and wear resistance, and it was found that the resulting deposits were fully dense and of improved surface properties when compared to the parent materials.
Knowledge Management Dynamics and Public Sector Organization Development
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: July 2019

In general, organizations should identify the skills, expertise, creativity, and motivation of the people if they have to become more competitive and enhance their performance. This is all the more crucial for public sector organizations. Knowledge therein plays a critical and integral role in being productive and innovative. But, unfortunately, public sector organizations don't recognize and take advantage of the dynamics of knowledge management for developing. Implying expertise and skills of the people in the form of knowledge which they possess is ignored or at best used sporadically. Adopting a grounded theory approach and in-depth literature review, the aim of this chapter is to critically appraise public sector organization development through knowledge management dynamics. The focus is on this neglected area because in this competitive era, public sector organizations' success depends not only on the basis of efficiency and effectiveness but also on how they identify, gather, manage, integrate, share and disseminate relevant knowledge to their human capital to bring innovation.
Sharing Knowledge With the Government
Authors: Erickson G. Scott
Published: July 2019

This chapter assesses the reliability and predictability of government departments as partners of private knowledge management systems. The specific topic is knowledge availability under the US Freedom of Information Act, but the general implications apply to governments at all levels around the world that hold business data, information, or knowledge assets. By comparing processes related to US freedom of information requests across departments and across time, separated by two dramatic changes in presidential administrations and attitudes toward governmental openness, this study examines the relative reliability of agency processes. In particular, reports on the handling of confidential business information provide us with specific insights on this topic as do reports on releases of records with personal privacy concerns. In the end, there appears to be little predictability in the process, even with clear instruction from the highest levels.
Examine the Factors Influencing Effectiveness of HRM Practices Designed to Improve Knowledge Transfer
Authors: Vasanthapriyan Shanmuganathan
Published: July 2019

Software development companies are noted for their innovative IT products. This is due to the focus on knowledge as a key driver for the innovations. Knowledge is a key element to all human resources. The purpose of this research is to investigate the factors influencing the effectiveness of HRM practices designed to improve knowledge transfer within software companies. A theoretical model was developed and empirically tested to test the hypothesis. Software companies were chosen in Sri Lanka with their professionals acting as respondents to survey. A sample includes 203 employees of Sri Lankan software companies. The results show that the order of importance of the HRM practices tested here is selection and recruitment, training and development, performance appraisal, and reward and compensation. The results also indicate that selection and recruitment, training and development, performance appraisal, and reward and compensation showed a positive impact with knowledge transfer improvement, as perceived by the professionals in the Sri Lankan software industry.
Strategic Knowledge Management Models and Tools in the Public Sector
Authors: Zanin Filippo , Corazza Giulio
Published: July 2019

Universities are a particular public entity where knowledge is a critical competitive resource. One of the main economic and social aims of universities is the generation of new knowledge for supporting innovation activities of knowledge capital-intensive industries. For ensuring the implementation of effective knowledge transferring process, management control systems tools, typically adopted in the private businesses sector, may effectively be used in public sector. In particular, the adoption of strategic performance measurement systems (SPMS) become important in public sector because it should affect organizational performance. Management studies have not taken into account explicitly the role of the SPMS in the public sector. This study aims to fill these gaps and demonstrates how SPMS influence organizational performance by supporting the strategic plan implementation of Ca' Foscari University of Venice. More specifically, the authors analyze how the use of SPMS facilitate strategic control and the mobilization of strategic organizational knowledge into a coherent strategic intent.
Big Data-Driven Smart University Architecture and Strategy Development
Authors: Al-Soufi Ali M.
Published: July 2019

The university's main objectives go around excellence in teaching, research activities and both university and community services. These pillars are supported by a number of important resources and functional systems such as complex student's life-cycle management system that must be considered in any strategy development process. This paper discusses the role of the big data in the smart university campus architecture and strategies development process, and how it could be utilized in various stages of strategy development. Additionally, it highlights the university's ICT architecture, the foundation of the knowledge management system that has been implemented, to help the university harness knowledge out of the big data that is generated by various parties and scattered systems around the university. Furthermore, the chapter highlights some of the successes on how, with help of a BI tool, the university was able to make critical and quick decisions by tapping into the big data of more than 35 years of student records; one of the pillars of the smart university strategy.
The Role of Knowledge-Oriented Higher Education Institutions in Sustainable Education Practices
Authors: Al-Sartawi Abdalmuttaleb M. A. Musleh , Badawi Sherine , Reyad Sameh
Published: July 2019

The main objective of this chapter is to raise awareness and promote sustainable education through knowledge management practices, as a positive step towards meeting sustainable development goals. The chapter discusses various topics related to the various definitions of sustainability and knowledge management and the benefits of integrating these concepts into higher education curricula. Based on the theoretical analysis of the literature, this chapter proposes several recommendations as well as directions for future research. One recurring theme in the sustainable education literature is the need for problem-solving and critical thinking skills; which mandates that HEIs need to revise their curricula to incorporate these skills. This chapter also looks more closely into the use of ICT as a sustainable knowledge tool and the various benefits as well as disadvantages arising from its advancement.
Knowledge Management as Driving Force to Organizational Learning and Innovation
Authors: Matei Ani , Antonovici Corina-Georgiana , Săvulescu Carmen
Published: July 2019

The genuine and actual conditions of operation of public institutions in Romania should determine the creation of behaviors oriented on development of organizational learning culture. The objectives of the chapter are focused on identifying the use of knowledge management concept in local public institutions in Romania, as well as its importance and impact in transforming them into innovative learning organizations. The theoretical part of the chapter comprises the analysis of the field literature, presentation of the definitions and characteristics of the notions of knowledge management, learning organization, the concept of innovation, presentation of the importance of developing interrelations triggering efficient and effective organizations. Concerning the case study, the chapter aims to identify the extent to which the knowledge management concept exists in three local public institutions in Romania, how knowledge is managed, if there is organizational learning, if they are learning and innovative organizations, as well as the interdependencies.
Knowledge Management in the Palestinian Public Sector
Authors: Shumali S. I. , Awwad Bahaa
Published: July 2019

The importance of the study stems from both theory and practice. In theory, it is hoped that this study will contribute to the attention of researchers to conduct further applied studies in this important field, in addition to administrative literature. For this reason, it is rare for local Palestinian studies to be conducted in this context, despite the efforts of some local studies on knowledge management but not their reflection on organizational innovation. In practical terms, its importance derives from the fact that it is conducted on an important and vital sector in the Palestinian economy, namely, the public sector, for the sector's effective efforts to develop the Palestinian society in various fields.
The Role of Value Engineering Knowledge Management on the Value Engineering Development
Authors: Alkaabi Mai , Hamdan Allam Mohammed , Kukreja Gagan
Published: July 2019

The quantitative method was used as the first approach to provide data collected from the construction professionals to measure the study variables (project characteristics, VE knowledge, support of authorized parties, flexibility of the contractual provisions, the resistance to change, the team selection, the results of VE study, the duration of the study, false perceptions and misunderstanding of VE concept) that affecting the successful development of VE in the context of public construction projects in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The second approach was the qualitative method through conducting interviews with specialists and consultants in the field of VE in the construction industry.
Knowledge Management in the Public Sector
Authors: Albastaki Yousif Abdullatif , Al-Alawi Adel Ismail , Al-Bassam Sara Abdulrahman
Published: July 2019

Although knowledge is recognized as a very important element of any business, the public sector does not fully explore the depth of the knowledge management (KM) as compared to private sector business. As days are passing by, public sector business has also started to realize the importance of KM. The public sector is a business that is run by the government. This sector includes organizations like government cooperation, enterprises, militaries, education, health, and related departments public services. In the public sector, the managers have started to adopt and develop practices of KM. Government organizations are facing many challenges to adapt and engage themselves in an electronic work environment. Over the years KM has grown and has been in continuous change in the public sector and has become essential to any organization in the world. Managers have been looking for a more futuristic approach for the past years. The purpose of this chapter examines the ongoing change in KM in the public sector and tackles the gap in the literature.
Spiritual Leadership in Collectivist Cultures
Authors: Baykal Elif
Published: July 2019

Besides financial freedom, the need for finding meaning and inner satisfaction at work has made people search for more spiritual organizations and leaders. A spiritual leadership style is a holistic leadership approach wherein the leader strives to encourage a sense of significance and interconnectedness among employees. In this sense, spiritual leadership can be considered as a meaningful management approach that can answer the search for meaning for employees. This particular form of leadership, which incorporates group focus, vision, and hope, can be regarded as a form of leadership that fits the nature of collectivist cultures. Giving importance to spirituality, brotherhood, altruism, hope, and hardwork, the Turkish interpretetion of Islamic Sufi tradition also composes a proper ground for cultivating spiritual leadership in collectivist and conservative Turkish organizations.
Spiritual Revival and Management Practices
Authors: Chanda Madhumita , Chanda Amrita
Published: July 2019

The author proposes an in-depth analysis of the basics of spiritualism, its true implications, and underscores the importance of spiritual quotient (SQ) or spiritual intelligence (SI) in the present socio-economic context and the decisive role that it is expected to play in near future. The main objective of the article is to identify the overall value crisis that is noticeable among professionals, especially in the corporate world. The main cause of these diminishing values is that individuals nowadays seek materialistic pleasures at the cost of their moral values. A revival of spiritual values can solve this global malaise.
Spirituality in the Workplace
Authors: Bianchi Stephanie
Published: July 2019

The importance of approaching life in an interconnected way seems to be on the rise. Interconnectedness, a concept that lies in the heart of many spiritual practices, stems from the realization that we inter-are with one another and everything in the universe. Just as our view of life undergoes profound evolution, the emergence of spirituality in the workplace advances at rapid speed. Today, more people are finding fulfillment, inspiration, and purpose in their jobs by bringing spirituality into their activities. This chapter addresses the increasing necessity of allowing spirituality to flourish in the workplace in the quest for better understanding our role as a whole. Furthermore, this chapter aims to provide organizations practical mindfulness-based strategies for enhancing self-management, productivity, and inside-out leadership in the workplace. Reinforcing an inside-out approach though the chapter, the author exposes the need for leaders to adopt an interconnected view into their workplaces in order to contribute in building a more sustainable and harmonious world.
The Student Experience of Video-Enhanced Learning, Assessment, and Feedback
Authors: McDowell James
Published: July 2019

Evaluating the impact on the student experience of the integrated model of video-enhanced learning, assessment, and feedback discussed in the previous chapter, qualitative data collection employed anonymous online questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and dialogic interviewing techniques, drawing on summative results data to inform methodological triangulation of the findings. Data analysis combined thematic analysis, constant comparison, and direct interpretation within a grounded theory framework. Illustrative cases present the findings as thick descriptions of the influence of video-based interventions on the experience of six purposively and representatively selected participants. The chapter concludes that an integrated model of asynchronous video-enhanced learning, assessment, and feedback can promote increased reflexivity, enhance learner autonomy, and encourage meta-cognitive self-awareness, while affording greater inclusivity for students affected by dyslexia or Asperger's Syndrome.
Are You Feeding Back or Is It Taking Students Forward?
Authors: Dann Christopher Ewart , O'Neill Shirley
Published: July 2019

The idea of feedback in education is accepted as vital in students' learning experience as a key to their success. Moreover, there is a growing recognition that for formative assessment practices to be most effective; data produced should be of a type that can help students improve their learning, and so should be dialogic, and feed forward rather than back. That is, students should have the opportunity to be engaged in critical reflection and dialogue about their performance in relation to such data. This chapter, therefore, presents a framework that positions dialogue at the core of formative assessment practices. It aligns this with Boud and Molloy's “Feedback Mark 2” model and Henderson et al.'s 12 conditions of success within the broader field of formative assessment to present a case for a more fine-grained examination of the concepts involved and the need for a change in mindset. The chapter argues that dialogue is the conduit through which nuanced moments and “feed markers” provide indicators of learning progression, and that how this impacts on the design of formative assessment tasks requires greater scrutiny. It concludes that the nuanced humanistic behaviors of the dialogic experience need further definition and exploration within the feedback space, and that the established narrative around the use of “feedback” needs to change to accommodate the social constructivist view of learning if practices are to be enhanced.
Cutaneous Exposure to Clinically Relevant Lone Star Ticks Promotes IgE Production and Hypersensitivity through CD4+ T Cell– and MyD88-Dependent Pathways in Mice
Authors: Chandrasekhar Jessica L. , Cox Kelly M. , Loo William M. , Qiao Hui , Tung Kenneth S. , Erickson Loren D.
Published: July 2019

Tick-borne allergies are a growing public health concern and have been associated with the induction of IgE-mediated food allergy to red meat. However, despite the increasing prevalence of tick bite–induced allergies, the mechanisms by which cutaneous exposure to ticks leads to sensitization and the production of IgE Abs are poorly understood. To address this question, an in vivo approach was used to characterize the IgE response to lone star tick proteins administered through the skin of mice. The results demonstrated that tick sensitization and challenge induced a robust production of IgE Abs and supported a role for IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reactions in sensitized animals following oral administration of meat. The induction of IgE responses was dependent on cognate CD4+ T cell help during both the sensitization phase and challenge phase with cutaneous tick exposure. In addition, IgE production was dependent on B cell–intrinsic MyD88 expression, suggesting an important role for TLR signaling in B cells to induce IgE responses to tick proteins. This model of tick-induced IgE responses could be used to study the factors within tick bites that cause allergies and to investigate how sensitization to food Ags occurs through the skin that leads to IgE production.
Cholesterol Crystals Induce Coagulation Activation through Complement-Dependent Expression of Monocytic Tissue Factor
Authors: Gravastrand Caroline S. , Steinkjer Bjørg , Halvorsen Bente , Landsem Anne , Skjelland Mona , Jacobsen Eva Astrid , Woodruff Trent M. , Lambris John D. , Mollnes Tom E. , Brekke Ole-Lars , Espevik Terje , Rokstad Anne Mari A.
Published: July 2019

Cholesterol crystals (CC) are strong activators of complement and could potentially be involved in thromboinflammation through complement–coagulation cross-talk. To explore the coagulation-inducing potential of CC, we performed studies in lepirudin-based human whole blood and plasma models. In addition, immunohistological examinations of brain thrombi and vulnerable plaque material from patients with advanced carotid atherosclerosis were performed using polarization filter reflected light microscopy to identify CC. In whole blood, CC exposure induced a time- and concentration-dependent generation of prothrombin fragment 1+2 (PTF1.2), tissue factor (TF) mRNA synthesis, and monocyte TF expression. Blocking Abs against TF abolished CC-mediated coagulation, thus indicating involvement of the TF-dependent pathway. Blockade of FXII by corn trypsin inhibitor had a significant inhibitory effect on CC-induced PTF1.2 in platelet-free plasma, although the overall activation potential was low. CC exposure did not induce platelet aggregation, TF microparticle induction, or TF on granulocytes or eosinophils. Inhibition of complement C3 by CP40 (compstatin), C5 by eculizumab, or C5aR1 by PMX53 blocked CC-induced PTF1.2 by 90% and reduced TF+ monocytes from 18–20 to 1–2%. The physiologic relevance was supported by birefringent CC structures adjacent to monocytes (CD14), TF, and activated complement iC3b and C5b–9 in a human brain thrombus. Furthermore, monocyte influx and TF induction in close proximity to CC-rich regions with activated complement were found in a vulnerable plaque. In conclusion, CC could be active, releasable contributors to thrombosis by inducing monocyte TF secondary to complement C5aR1 signaling.
The impact of potassium citrate therapy in the natural course of Medullary Sponge Kidney with associated nephrolithiasis
Authors: Cicerello Elisa , Ciaccia Matteo , Cova Giandavide , Mangano Mario
Published: July 2019

Objectives: The present study was carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of medical therapy with potassium citrate in preventing calculosis complicating Medullary Sponge Kidney (MSK) without renal acidification defects.Materials and methods: In a open, uncontrolled, retrospective analysis, 49 MSK patients with nephrolithiasis without renal tubular acidosis, underwent a complete metabolic evaluation and received potassium citrate therapy 4-6 g/day. The course of stone disease before and after citrate therapy was determined in each patient from a combination of clinical history, past records, radiographs and kidney ultrasound. The rate of new stone formation/pt/yr, of endourological and extracorporeal procedures, of urinary tract infection (UTI) and number of hospitalization before and after medical treatment were calculated. Results: Metabolic anomalies (hypercalciuria, hypocitraturia, hyperuricuria and hyperoxaluria) were present in 83% of the patients. Follow-up before and after alkali citrate therapy was comparable (4.7+/-1.4 and 4.9+/-1.7 years respectively). Medical treatment significantly reduced rates of stone formation from 2.0+/-1.0 to 0.2+/-0.5 pt/yr, ureteroscopy (URS) from 0.9+/0.8 to 0.4+/-0.5 pt/yr, extratracoporeal lithotripsy (ESWL) from 1.1+/-0.8 to 0.4+/-0.6 pt/yr, urinary tract infections (UTIs) from 0.8+/-1.2 to 0.3+/-0.5 pt/yr and hospitalization from 1.1+/-0.6 to 0.2+/-0.3 pt/yr, p < 0.001. This effect was observed also in MSK patients without metabolic anomalies. In 35 patients the asymptomatic disappearance of calcium stones was also observed. Conclusions: Our study documents the effectiveness of potassium citrate therapy in preventing neprolithiasis in MSK patients also in the absence of distal tubular acidosis. It suggests that in MSK patients alkali citrate may promote calcium stone dissolution by oral administration.