bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Massive Open Online Courses and MOOCs-SWAYAM
Authors: Sahoo Jyotshna , Mohanty Basudev , Ratha Lipsha , Meher Anupama , Sahu Jayanta Kumar
Published: April 2018

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are relatively new models for imparting high quality online education not only on different platforms but also multi-learners can simultaneously access from different geographical regions. Within a very short span these courses have gain momentum across the globe through prominent academic and research bodies by investing considerable efforts in developing, promoting and in delivering such courses. While MOOC courses are being imparted through popular global platforms like Coursera, Udacity, edx, Future Learn etc. by a number of top ranked Universities, SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Mind) is an Indian platform launched involving development of MOOCs e-contents. In this paper, attempts have been made to provide a state-of- the art of the growing popularity of MOOCs courses from several dimensions with specific emphasis on SWAYAM and its usage pattern. To carry out the present work requisite data has been collected from various sources like web portals, reports, SCOPUS database and Similar-Web's analytics tools.
Aura
Authors: Lumbreras Marva Angélica Mora , María de Lourdes Méndez-Trejo , Ariel Sanluis-Ramírez
Published: April 2018

A person with autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication. Augmented reality (AR) combines reality with virtual aspects such as sound, video, graphics, or GPS data. Specifically, Aura is a mobile augmented reality application applied in the learning of children with ASD with the purpose of helping them in their relationships with the outside world and especially in their learning. Aura consists of five modules and 42 activities. The modules are Learn Basic Shapes, Repeat Basic Habits, Draw, Learn to Write, and Learn Values and Empathy. This project was tested by children of the Angelitos Mios Foundation, located in Apizaco Tlaxcala. The test showed favorable results. Tests were conducted with students in the age range of 4-8 years with ASD. The foundation is currently working on the acquisition of mobile devices for the implementation of Aura.
Characterization of English Through Augmented Reality
Authors: Hernández Marisol Hernández , Lumbreras Marva Angélica Mora
Published: April 2018

Children who begin to learn English usually associate words with images and sounds; this facilitates the assimilation of knowledge and increases their educational interest. This premise grounded this research using augmented reality-based applications designed for people who want to learn English vocabulary. The set of useful terms for students to learn are put together in various categories such as animals, colors, and things. The vocabulary is stored in a database in different formats that are text, 3D image, and audio, which are associated with items containing a vocabulary that represents abstract entities and that are necessary to complement the learning of the English language. The words are associated with the images and with the corresponding audio in order that the students learn to read, write, listen, and consequently, to pronounce the words. This research is projected for more promising applications based on the multi-lingual teaching process.
Second or Foreign Language Learning With Augmented Reality
Authors: Statti Aubrey , Torres Kelly M.
Published: April 2018

The following chapter will discuss the impact of technology use and mobile learning, specifically augmented reality (AR), in the process of learning a second or foreign language, namely English and Spanish. The chapter will begin with an overview of AR and then include a discussion of the theoretical framework, language learning contexts, as well as AR tools and applications in the process of second or foreign language learning. An overview of the benefits of AR in language learning will also be included, as well as an introduction to AR applications and specific AR systems, platforms, and case studies in language learning. The research will also provide a discussion of the challenges of using AR in language learning contexts, including specific attention to challenges with AR and learning, AR and language learning, and mobile learning as a whole. The chapter will conclude with final thoughts from the authors in terms of potential areas of AR development that are in need of further attention.
BIM and Cultural Heritage
Authors: Achille Cristiana , Lombardini Nora , Tommasi Cinzia
Published: April 2018

Since it spread on the market, the professionals consider building information modelling as one of the most efficient methods to handle and manage a building and its entire life cycle, including costs, energy simulation, construction production data, and more. Thanks, also, to the legislation of the past few years, it is possible to say that this approach is known almost by everyone in the new construction field, and its employment is growing. The current use of BIM software is mostly referred to new buildings, made of regular elements and standard parameters. Is it possible to use the BIM process for the maintenance and the conservation of cultural heritage? The only way to answer this question is to research the academic environment, starting to train the professionals of tomorrow earlier, and proposing interesting cases studies on the subject. This chapter explores BIM and cultural heritage.
Topologically Consistent Space, Time, Version, and Scale Using Alexandrov Topologies
Authors: Bradley Patrick E. , Paul Norbert
Published: April 2018

A novel approach to higher dimensional spatial database design is introduced by replacing the canonical solid–face–edge–vertex schema of topological data by a common type SpatialEntity, and the individual “bounded-by” relations between two consecutive classes by one separate binary relation BoundedBy on SpatialEntity defining an Alexandrov topology. This exposes mathematical principles of spatial data design. The first consequence is a mathematical definition of topological “dimension” for spatial data. Another is that every topology for spatial data is an Alexandrov topology. Also, version histories have a canonical Alexandrov topology, and generalizations can be consistently modeled by continuous foreign keys between LoDs. The result is a relational database schema for spatial data of dimension 6 and more, seamlessly integrating space-time, LoDs, and version history. Topological constructions enable queries across these different aspects. Giving points coordinates amounts can give rise to topological inconsistencies which can be measured with topological invariants.
Integration of BIM Work Culture for Improving Global Project Collaboration Productivity
Authors: Ghafar Maszura Abdul , Ibrahim Rahinah , Shari Zalina , Pour Rahimian Farzad
Published: April 2018

Building information modelling is further globalizing architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professional partnerships. However, little is known on the effect of cultural and human factors on BIM-enabled visualization applications. This desktop study examined the extant literature on factors relating to application of BIM-enabled visualization technologies as a process that can improve, leverage, and conduct visual communication for coordination during implementation of global projects. It identifies BIM-enabled visualization having the capability in facilitating knowledge flows in complex discontinuous working environment of a property development's life cycle, and supports designers' understanding in its early working phases. This chapter presents the development of a theoretical proposition for embedding local work culture etiquette in BIM-enabled visualization application for augmenting dynamic knowledge transfer among discontinuous members in a building project. The result is expected to benefit rapidly developing countries (e.g., Malaysia) in enabling successful partnerships with counterparts from developed countries.
Demystifying Collaboration in BIM-Based Projects Under Design-Build Procurement
Authors: Jowett Benjamin R. , Al Hattab Malak , Kassem Mohamad
Published: April 2018

Building information modelling (BIM) tools and workflows, new procurements methods, and emerging management practices are being adopted on projects to overcome collaboration barriers and improve project performance within the architecture, engineering, construction, and operation (AECO) sector. Academic literature and industry reports recommend the use of collaborative procurement methods such as design and build (DB) procurement and integrated project delivery (IPD) when adopting BIM workflows. However, to date there are little operationalization and empirical evidence of the value realization potential when using BIM in conjunction to these procurement methods. This chapter draws upon five case studies of BIM-based DB projects to analyze and quantify the potential of value realization using clash detection as a use value. The results reveal potential hurdles inhibiting BIM from reaching its full potential. Accordingly, recommended changes to the current processes are suggested to facilitate BIM in enhancing value on DB projects.
Investigating Effects of Psychophysical Metrics on Fidelity in 3D Space Visualization
Authors: Saleeb Noha
Published: April 2018

Previous research tests and experiments have provided evidence for the disparity between human perception of space in the physical environment and the 3D virtual environment. This could have dire effects on the decision-making process throughout the whole construction lifecycle of an asset due to non-precision of perceived spaces. Results have shown an infidelity in displaying the actual dimensions of the space in the 3D virtual environment, and previous research by the author has identified the magnitude of this disparity. However, there has been inconclusive reasoning behind the causes for this disparity. This chapter aims to investigate and highlight different psychophysical factors that might cause this difference in perception, and compare these factors with previously investigated research.
A Comprehensive Survey of IoT Edge/Fog Computing Protocols
Authors: R. Madhumathi , R. Dharshana , Sulthana Reshma , N. Kalaiyarasi
Published: April 2018

The IoT device ecosystem is being blessed with a dazzling array of slim and sleek, trendy and handy, purpose-specific and generic, disappearing, disposable yet indispensable, resource-constrained and intensive, and embedded yet networked devices. Therefore, our personal, as well as professional, environments are increasingly being stuffed with such kinds of functionally powerful devices that are instrumented, interconnected, and intelligent. This trend and transition set a stimulating foundation for a variety of connected and smarter environments. By empowering our everyday devices to be computing, communicative, sensitive, and responsive, the newly introduced concept of edge or fog computing is to bring forth a number of innovations, disruptions, and transformations for the IT domain. This chapter conveys how the various protocols contribute immensely to the intended success of fog computing and analytics in the days ahead.
Software-Defined Cloud Infrastructure
Authors: Mohanasundaram R. , Jayanthiladevi A. , G. Keerthana
Published: April 2018

Cloud computing suggests that the applications conveyed as services over the internet and frameworks programming in the server that give various services and offers in “pay as you go” trend which means pay only for what you use. The information and services are managed as software as a service (SaaS). Some sellers utilize terms, for example, IaaS (infrastructure as a service) and PaaS (platform as a service). The purpose of cloud computing is quickly expanding in everyday life. Today the use of cloud computing is widespread to the point that it is being utilized even in the medicinal services industry. As the development of cloud computing in healthcare is happening at a fast rate, we can expect a noteworthy piece of the healthcare administrations to move onto the Cloud and along these lines more focus is laid on giving cost-effective and efficient services to the general population all around the world. Cloud these days are turning into the new building pieces of significant organizations spread the world over. They offer assistance in servicing to offer different frameworks. Cloud computing has enhanced its technique and technologies in a better way to provide better services. Existing e-healthcare has many difficulties from advancement to usage. In this chapter, the authors discuss how cloud computing is utilized and the services provided by the Cloud and their models and its infrastructure.
Remote Elderly Health Monitoring System Using Cloud-Based WBANs
Authors: Jamal D. Najumnissa , Rajkumar S. , Ameen Nabeena
Published: April 2018

Monitoring the physical condition of patients is a major errand for specialists. The development of wireless remote elderly patient monitoring system has been intensive in the past. RPM (remote patient monitoring) is reliant on the person's inspiration to deal with their wellbeing. The flow of patient data requires a group of medicinal services suppliers to deal with the information. RPM sending is reliant on a wireless telecommunication infrastructure, which may not be accessible/practical in provincial territories. Patients' data are shared as service on cloud in hospitals. Therefore, in the current research, a new approach of cloud-based wireless remote patient monitoring system during emergency is proposed as a model to monitor the critical health data. The vital parameters are measured and transmitted. In this chapter, the authors present an extensive review of the significant technologies associated with wireless patient monitoring using wireless sensor networks and cloud.
Comparison Study of Different NoSQL and Cloud Paradigm for Better Data Storage Technology
Authors: Lathar Pankaj , Srinivasa K. G. , Kumar Abhishek , Siddiqui Nabeel
Published: April 2018

Advancements in web-based technology and the proliferation of sensors and mobile devices interacting with the internet have resulted in immense data management requirements. These data management activities include storage, processing, demand of high-performance read-write operations of big data. Large-scale and high-concurrency applications like SNS and search engines have appeared to be facing challenges in using the relational database to store and query dynamic user data. NoSQL and cloud computing has emerged as a paradigm that could meet these requirements. The available diversity of existing NoSQL and cloud computing solutions make it difficult to comprehend the domain and choose an appropriate solution for a specific business task. Therefore, this chapter reviews NoSQL and cloud-system-based solutions with the goal of providing a perspective in the field of data storage technology/algorithms, leveraging guidance to researchers and practitioners to select the best-fit data store, and identifying challenges and opportunities of the paradigm.
Voice Biometrics
Authors: A. Saleema , Thampi Sabu M.
Published: April 2018

Biometric technology is spearheading the existing authentication methods in the IoT. Considering the balance between security and convenience, voice biometrics seems to be the most logical biometric technologies to be used. The authors present an extensive survey to identify, analyze, and compare various methods and algorithms for the different phases in the process of speaker identification/recognition, which is the part and parcel in voice biometrics. The chapter is intended to provide essential background information to those interested in learning or planning to design voice authentication systems. The chapter highlights the need for a biometric authentication system, the reason why we prefer voice, its present state of affairs, and its scope with fog computing to be used in IoT.
Text, Images, and Video Analytics for Fog Computing
Authors: Jayanthiladevi A. , Murugan S. , Manivel K.
Published: April 2018

Today, images and image sequences (videos) make up about 80% of all corporate and public unstructured big data. As growth of unstructured data increases, analytical systems must assimilate and interpret images and videos as well as they interpret structured data such as text and numbers. An image is a set of signals sensed by the human eye and processed by the visual cortex in the brain creating a vivid experience of a scene that is instantly associated with concepts and objects previously perceived and recorded in one's memory. To a computer, images are either a raster image or a vector image. Simply put, raster images are a sequence of pixels with discreet numerical values for color; vector images are a set of color-annotated polygons. To perform analytics on images or videos, the geometric encoding must be transformed into constructs depicting physical features, objects and movement represented by the image or video. This chapter explores text, images, and video analytics in fog computing.
Exploring Citizen-Centric E-Government Using a Democratic Theories Framework
Authors: Mossey Sean , Manoharan Aroon P. , Bennett Lamar Vernon
Published: April 2018

In this chapter, the authors draw on Scott's work on e-government and democratic theories to examine how governments engage their citizens online. The three theories they focus on—representative, pluralist, and direct—are the most prominent in the democratic theory literature. Using data from 200 U.S. local governments, the authors examine two research questions: What factors drive governments to employ each theory? Which theory predominates in the implementation of e-government? The assumption is that providing answers to these two questions will help set the stage for future research linking e-government and democratic theory. The authors also explore this theory in e-government amidst the rise of m-government, whereby users access e-government services via mobile devices. They suggest as well what governments can do to move forward with their e-government and m-government efforts based on these theories.
Exploring Client Perceptions and Intentions in Emerging Economies
Authors: Iqbal Mehree , Nisha Nabila , Rifat Afrin , Panda Pradiptarathi
Published: April 2018

This article describes how in response to the global initiative to save the environment, many emerging economies today promote environmental-friendly practices by implementing various forms of green banking services. Beyond its usefulness for the environment, green banking also benefits the clients by offering new channels of financial services delivery. As such, there may be various factors which can shape the behavioral intentions of clients for adopting green banking, including their environmental concerns, perceived financial cost and timeliness factor attached to these services. Using UTAUT model and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), this paper thus proposes a model to identify such adoption factors in the context of an emerging economy. The article finds that timeliness, facilitating conditions, environmental concerns, effort expectancy and performance expectancy, plays an important role in capturing clients' overall perceptions of green banking. Results therefore indicate clients may be fairly pragmatic in developing general attitudes towards the use of green banking.
The Conceptual Model of Efficient Markets in Information Databases in Iran
Authors: Eltemasi Mahshid
Published: April 2018

The main purpose of this article is to conceptually model market efficiency of information databases in Iran. In order to achieve that, summarizing content analysis techniques was used by reviewing literatures and exploratory interviews. The study population in interviews consists of brokers selling databases in Iran. The bibliographical research has been done on efficient market related publications published in the 5-year period of 2011-2015, indexed on Science Direct, ProQuest and EBSCO information databases. It was found that fourth categories for information database efficient markets: Linearity is most important and then to order, are logic and rationality, and Information-centric, trading volume reached fourth place, so one can say the information database markets are efficient and therefore author(s) traced the conceptual model of efficient markets in Information Databases in Iran.
iPattern
Authors: Bassiouny Youmna , Elias Rimon , Paulsen Philipp
Published: April 2018

Computational design takes a computer science view of design, applying both the science and art of computational approaches and methodologies to design problems. This article proposes to convert design methodologies studied by designers into rule-based computational design software and help them by providing suggestions for designs to build upon given a set of primitive shapes and geometrical rules. iPattern is a pattern-making software dedicated to designers to generate innovative design patterns that can be used in a decorative manner. They may be applied on wallpapers, carpets, fabric textiles, three-dimensional lanterns, tableware, etc. The purpose is to create a modern pattern design collection that adds a new essence to the place. In order to generate creative design patterns, primitive shapes and geometrical rules are used. The generated design pattern is constructed based on the grid of the Flower of Life of the sacred geometry or similar grids constructed using primitive shapes (rectangles, squares and triangles) combined in the layout of the Flower of Life.
Modelling of Cloud Computing Enablers Using MICMAC Analysis and TISM
Authors: Chawla Nitin , Kumar Deepak
Published: April 2018

This article describes how Cloud Computing is not just a buzzword but a shift from IT departments to the outsourcing vendors without impacting business efficiency. Some organizations are moving towards cloud computing but many have resistance to adopting cloud computing due to limitations in knowledge and awareness of the classifying elements, which effect decisions on the acceptance of cloud computing. Therefore, this article has focused on accumulating the elements, which can act as enablers, by reviewing existing literature and studies from both professional and academic viewpoints. All the identified enablers have been structurally modeled to develop the relationship matrix and establish the driving power and dependence power of every element. This is done by employing Total Interpretive Structural Modeling (TISM) and Cross Impact Matrix Multiplication Applied to Classification (MICMAC) analysis.
The Correlation of Non-Performing Loans Between the Four Greek Systemic Banks Before and During the Recent Crisis Based on Accounting Information
Authors: Toudas Kanellos Stylianou , Christopoulos Apostolos , Kalantonis Petros , Kravaritis Stylianos
Published: April 2018

In the last years, and especially during the recent financial crisis there is an ongoing debate about non-perorming loans (NPLs) as they have increased enormously, even in developed countries. This phenomenon has deteriorated the overall status of banks, especially in countries that affected more by the crisis, as the loan portfolio constitutes a very important part of banks' total assets. This situation has increased uncertainty towards the global banking system resulting to run on banks with negative effects on the liquidation of the financial system and therefore to the finaning of the real economy. The aim of this article is to examine the level of correlation of NPLs among the four systemic banks in Greece. The empirical results show that the level of NPLs of the examined banks is affected by the performance of the bank itself in previous periods, as well as the performance of the other three banks for the same periods. Furthermore, the impulse response of a positive shock on the level of NPLs of each bank proves the existance of correlation between the four banks.
Measuring the World
Authors: Westhoff Dirk , Zeiser Maximilian
Published: April 2018

The authors claim that location information of stationary ICT components can never be unclassified. They describe how swarm-mapping (crowd sourcing) is used by Apple and Google to worldwide harvest geo-location information on wireless access points and mobile telecommunication systems' base stations to build up gigantic databases with very exclusive access rights. After having highlighted the known technical facts, in the speculative part of this article, the authors argue how this may impact cyber deterrence strategies of states and alliances understanding the cyberspace as another domain of geostrategic relevance. The states and alliances spectrum of activities due to the potential existence of such databases may range from geopolitical negotiations by institutions understanding international affairs as their core business, mitigation approaches at a technical level, over means of cyber deterrence-by-retaliation.
An Insight into State-of-the-Art Techniques for Big Data Classification
Authors: Bansal Neha , Singh R.K. , Sharma Arun
Published: April 2018

This article describes how classification algorithms have emerged as strong meta-learning techniques to accurately and efficiently analyze the masses of data generated from the widespread use of internet and other sources. In particular, there is need of some mechanism which classifies unstructured data into some organized form. Classification techniques over big transactional database may provide required data to the users from large datasets in a more simplified way. With the intention of organizing and clearly representing the current state of classification algorithms for big data, present paper discusses various concepts and algorithms, and also an exhaustive review of existing classification algorithms over big data classification frameworks and other novel frameworks. The paper provides a comprehensive comparison, both from a theoretical as well as an empirical perspective. The effectiveness of the candidate classification algorithms is measured through a number of performance metrics such as implementation technique, data source validation, and scalability etc.
Analysis and Development of Load Balancing Algorithms in Cloud Computing
Authors: Bura Deepa , Singh Meeta , Nandal Poonam
Published: April 2018

This article describes how cloud computing utilizes the benefits of web engineering and its applications by improving the performance and reducing the load on cloud providers. As the cloud is one of the emerging technology in the field of computing, it is used to provide various services to the user through the internet. One of the major concerns in cloud computing is accessibility of cloud. For estimating the availability of cloud, various load balancing algorithms are deployed in data centers of the cloud environment. Load balancing is a technique that distributes a signal load across various computers for optimizing resource usage, reducing response time, etc. There are different load balancing algorithms, for performing the load distribution across various centers. This article analyses different load balancing algorithms and develop a new algorithm for efficient load balancing. The proposed load balancing algorithm utilizes the concepts of web engineering to prioritize the request of end user using parsing technique, which will assign the resources to the end users based on the priority set by the data centers.
Research on O2O Platform and Promotion Algorithm of Sports Venues Based on Deep Learning Technique
Authors: Han Kaiyan , Wang Qin
Published: April 2018

In the era of big data, intelligent sports venues have a practical significance to provide personalized service for users and build up a platform for stadium management. This article proposes a new parallel big data promotion algorithm based on the latest achievements of big data analysis. The proposed algorithm calculates the optimal value by using the observed variables Y, the hidden variable data Z, the joint distribution P (Y, Z | θ) and distribution conditions P (Z | Y | θ). The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm has higher accuracy of big data analysis, and can serve the intelligent sports venues better.
A Deep Learning Solution for Multimedia Conference System Assisted by Cloud Computing
Authors: Zhang Wei , Shi Huiling , Lu Xinming , Zhou Longquan
Published: April 2018

With the development of information technology, more and more people use multimedia conference system to communicate or work across regions. In this article, an ultra-reliable and low-latency solution based on Deep Learning and assisted by Cloud Computing for multimedia conference system, called UCCMCS, is designed and implemented. In UCCMCS, there are two-tiers in its data distribution structure which combines the advantages of cloud computing. And according to the requirements of ultra-reliability and low-latency, a bandwidth optimization model is proposed to improve the transmission efficiency of multimedia data so as to reduce the delay of the system. In order to improve the reliability of data distribution, the help of cloud computing node is used to carry out the retransmission of lost data. the experimental results show UCCMCS could improve the reliability and reduce the latency of the multimedia data distribution in multimedia conference system.
Lateral Load Performance Analysis of Dhajji Dewari Using Different Infills
Authors: Rashid Hafiz Muhammad , Khan Shaukat Ali , Khushnood Rao Arsalan , Ahmad Junaid
Published: April 2018

This article describes Dhajji Dewari which is a non-engineered traditional construction method mostly used in the northern parts of Pakistan. This method consists of a timber frame filled with the stones in a mud slurry. This article is aimed to assess the effects of different infills on the lateral load capacity of Dhajji Dewari. For this purpose, three full scale Dhajji Dewari panels were constructed and unidirectional in-plane lateral load was applied. One panel was without infill, two other panels with different type of infills. Results of the experimentation showed that the infill presence effects the lateral load resisting performance of the Dhajji Dewari.
The Evaluation of Engineering Properties of Low Cost Concrete Blocks by Partial Doping of Sand with Sawdust
Authors: Fernando Pius Rodney , Hamigah T. , Disne S. , Wickramasingha G. G. A. K. , Sutharshan A.
Published: April 2018

The main objective of the article is to reduce the quantity of sand with the natural agro waste materials and the performance of sawdust-sand-cement stabilized using sawdust (SD) and cement which investigates the water retention (WR), compressive quality (CQ) and flexural quality (FQ) of the sawdust-sand-cement blocks to find out the conceivable utilization of sawdust as an incomplete substitution of sawdust in blocks creation. For this purpose, various combinations of sawdust, sand, cement, water-content and drying time to create testing blocks. The compressive and flexural qualities of the sawdust-sand-cement blocks were determined using a universal testing machine, as they just cracked due to compression. The greatest compressive and flexural strength of 193 kg.cm-2 and 2.34 kg.cm-2 were recorded at 0% doping at 28th day. However, the most extreme estimation of 106 kg.cm-2 and 1.29 kg.cm-2 for 15% doping is discovered reasonable and prescribed for building development having been achieved at a 28th days compressive and flexural quality which is less than the Sri Lankan Standards (SLS). However, the 15% doping blocks have water retention of 12.4% at 28th days that is the minimum requirement for the block according to the Sri Lankan Standards (SLS). Therefore, these sawdust-sand-cement blocks were found to be weak for medium and heavy building constructions, because of its low density, light weight, low strength. Thus, these sawdust-sand-cement blocks can be used for interior wall partition and decorations. The sawdust-sand-cement block manufacturing procedure being simple can be undertaken as rural entrepreneurship by unskilled labors of developing countries.
An Islamic Faith Perspective on Using Social Media / Mainstream Media to Prompt Organ Donation/ Transplantation Awareness
Authors: Muhammad Shahid
Published: April 2018

This article describes how with exception to individuals with severe learning difficulties and neurological illnesses, which of course are devastating in their own right, there has never existed a human being who has not been aware not only of his body but also of his individuality, both physically and spiritually. Human beings are consciously aware of their own lives and, it's through understanding that awareness of a consciously constructed self is identified. The use of social media (SM) today provides unparalleled opportunities for research data collection, wider access for communication and engagement. SM/ mainstream media (MM) such as television, newspapers, magazines, and radio stations are also being used to prompt research funding for specific Long-Term Conditions (LTCs), however these forms of ‘advertising' have not been explored from an Islamic stance to prompt organ donation/ transplantation awareness on using SM/ MM. This article examines Islamic teachings to examine the action of organ transplantation.
The Impact of Healthcare Information Technology on Patient Outcomes
Authors: Chen Edward T.
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this article is to review the existing literature on health information technology (HIT), specifically electronic health records (EHR) and life-long patient records, in order to provide a broad assessment of the current state of this technology in the United States. Relevant literature was reviewed to determine whether key hypotheses were validated. Areas for additional research and development were identified, and a potential path forward was proposed. HIT adoption is a worthwhile effort in the United States, and it is possible for us to enact an interoperable central records system within our current fee-for-service healthcare system. Wide scale adoption will require subsidies and regulatory involvement at the state level, but professional networks may be exploited to speed the rate of adoption. A four-tier architecture with autonomic security systems, properly validated, can provide the infrastructure necessary.
Designing Effective Crowdsourcing Systems for the Healthcare Industry
Authors: Sen Kabir , Ghosh Kaushik
Published: April 2018

This article describes how healthcare faces many challenges. Among them is the inability of patients to seek and receive treatment based on their preferences. Patients characteristically pursue solutions to their medical problems that suit their individual needs. However, care providers and other stakeholders including healthcare insurance providers seem to ‘limit' patients' ability to access affordable and quality healthcare. Discourse in prior research has indicated that the use of crowdsourcing may provide patients access to treatments that can solve their medical problems. This article is an extension of extant research that describes the main challenges facing healthcare. It advances current research by presenting ideas through which these challenges can be mitigated. The core ideas proposed encompass the elements of crowdsourcing systems that will include participation of individuals in the crowd without any bias, enable knowledge sharing among all members of the crowd, and provide opportunities for testing the solutions proposed by the crowd.
Evaluation of the prognostic value of multimodal intraoperative monitoring in posterior fossa surgery patients with cerebellopontine angle tumors
Authors: Dalvandi Mohsen , Nazemi Rafie Ali , Kamali Alireza , Jamshidifard Alireza
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of four intraoperative monitoring approaches in order to compare their prognostic value in surgical complications of the facial nerve. This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 25 patients with Cerebellopontine Angle (CPA) tumors, who were hospitalized in the Valiasr Hospital, affiliated to the Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran. The degree of the facial nerve paralysis was assessed based on the House-Brackmann (HB) facial nerve grading system. The Orbicularis oris and Oculi muscles were evaluated by electromyography (EMG) before and after the surgery. Monitoring the facial nerve was performed by the EMG, Facial Nerve Antidromic Potentials (FNAPs), Transcranial Electrical Stimulation (TES), and Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials (BAEPs) methods. The mean HB score was 0.36.6±5.83, indicating that the function of the facial muscle was abnormal in all the patients pre-surgery. The comparison of the four monitoring approaches six months after surgery showed that the predictive value of facial nerve TES was higher than the other approaches (P<0.005). Furthemroe, 4% of the patients showed normal function in the facial muscle after the surgery. In addition, 8%, 56%, and 32% of the patients had mild abnormalities, moderate to severe paralysis in the facial muscles, and severe facial nerve dysfunction, respectively. In summary, 36% of the patients showed a mild abnormalities in the follow-up period, and full recovery was observed in 28% of the cases. In conclusion, the transcranial motor evoked potential (TCMEP) is a useful method for monitoring the facial nerve during the surgery along with the continuous EMG recordings.
Revisiting the peculiar regional distribution of muscle fiber types in rat Sternomastoid Muscle
Authors: Ravara Barbara , Gobbo Valerio , Incendi Damiana , Porzionato Andrea , Macchi Veronica , De Caro Raffaele , Coletti Dario , Martinello Tiziana , Patruno Marco
Published: April 2018

The sternomastoid (SM) muscle in rodents is known to have a peculiar distribution of fiber types with a steep gradient from surface to deep region. We here further characterize this peculiar regional distribution by quantitative histochemical morphometrys. In Hematoxylin-Eosin (H-E) stained transverse cryosections harvested in the medial portion of the muscle we counted around 10.000 myofibers with a mean diameter of 51.3±12.6 (μm). Cryisections of the SM stained by SDH reaction clearly show two distinct regions, toward the deep surface of the muscle a 40% area that contains packed SDH-positive myofibers, while the remaining area of the SM toward the external surface presents a more checker-board appearance. On the other hand, in the deep region of SM type 1 (slow contracting) muscle fibers, caracterized by positive acidic ATPase pH 4.35 reaction, are only the 24.5% of the fibers in the deep area of SM muscles, being restricted to the deepest region. The 75.5% of the myofibers in the deep region are of the fast contracting types (either 48.4% 2A, SDH –positive fibers or 27.1% 2B, SDH-negative fibers, respectively). As expected the 2B muscle fibers, acidic ATPase pH 4.3-negative and SDH-negative, present the largest size, while Type 1 fibers, acidic ATPase pH 4.3-positive and SDH-positive, present the smallest size in rat SM muscle. Based on present and previous observations, comparison of change in absolute number and/or percentage of the fiber types in any experimental model of muscle atrophy/hypertrophy/plasticity/pathology /recovery in the rat SM, and possibly of all mammals, will ask for morphometry of the whole muscle cross-sections, muscle sampling by bioptic approches will provide only comparable data on the size of the different types of muscle fibers.
Two years of Functional Electrical Stimulation by large surface electrodes for denervated muscles improve skin epidermis in SCI
Authors: Albertin Giovanna , Kern Helmut , Hofer Christian , Guidolin Diego , Porzionato Andrea , Rambaldo Anna , De Caro Raffaele , Piccione Francesco , Marcante Andrea , Zampieri Sandra
Published: April 2018

Our previous studies have shown that severely atrophic Quadriceps muscles of spinal cord injury (SCI) patients suffering with complete conus and cauda equina lesions, and thus with permanent denervation-induced atrophy and degeneration of muscle fibers, were almost completely rescued to normal size after two years of home-based Functional Electrical Stimulation (h-bFES). Since we used large surface electrodes to stimulate the thigh muscles, we wanted to know if the skin was affected by long-term treatment. Here we report preliminary data of morphometry of skin biopsies harvested from legs of 3 SCI patients before and after two years of h-bFES to determine the total area of epidermis in transverse skin sections. By this approach we support our recently published results obtained randomly measuring skin thickness in the same biopsies after H-E stain. The skin biopsies data of three subjects, taken together, present indeed a statistically significant 30% increase in the area of the epidermis after two years of h-bFES. In conclusion, we confirm a long term positive modulation of electrostimulated epidermis, that correlates with the impressive improvements of the FES-induced muscle strength and bulk, and of the size of the muscle fibers after 2-years of h-bFES.
Genetic diversity and population differentiation of the freshwater copepod Sinocalanus tenellus (Calanoida, Centropagidae) in China
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Ma Xiaolin , Hu Wei , Yin Mingbo
Published: April 2018

Copepods, present in a wide range of water bodies, are an important component of freshwater ecosystems and their biodiversity has been much studied in marine and freshwater ecosystems. However, no previous genetic data are available that allow an assessment of population-genetic diversity and differentiation of the copepod Sinocalanus tenellus from Chinese freshwaters. We analyzed DNA sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene from eleven S. tenellus populations (individual lakes) from China, ten of which exhibited a high genetic diversity. Low to high population differentiation was detected among the populations. Interestingly, substantial genetic divergence was detected between WLS (Wuliangsu, in Inner Mongolia) and other locations, indicating the presence of two lineages of S. tenellus in East Asia. Moreover, we found that two distinct clades of S. tenellus were separated by the reference “S. sinensis” clade, suggesting they were parts of a complex of cryptic species of S. tenellus. This study will contribute to an understanding of the diversity and biogeography of copepods in freshwater ecosystem in China.
Developing mindfulness in children through participation in music activities
Authors: Auerbach Christina , Delport Aletta C.
Published: April 2018

The vast majority of young South African children grow up in socially- and economicallychallenging settings. These impeding conditions hamper their intellectual growth and affect their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. Increasingly, mindfulness is being recognised as a means to enhance holistic well-being of children. Likewise, music is widely acknowledged for its potential contribution to the holistic development of children. In this article, we reflect on a non-formal music programme, implemented on a weekly basis over a period of 10 months, at an aftercare facility in an impoverished township area in South Africa. Our aim was to develop, through the children’s active participation in music activities, some aspects of mindfulness. Data were generated through personal observations, field notes and semi-structured interviews. Two salient themes emerged, namely, enhanced awareness of self and others, and improved listening and attention skills. These are key aspects of mindfulness. We subsequently argue that aspects of mindfulness in young children can be developed through focused activities centred on music and sound.
Urinary Bladder Thickness, Tumor Antigen, and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in a Low Schistosoma Haematobium-Endemic Rural Community of Nigeria
Authors: Oyeyemi Oyetunde , Adefalujo Adekunle , Ayeni Kolawole , Nabofa Williams , Nwozichi Chinomso , Dada Adeyemi , Yusuf Adebola
Published: April 2018

Objective:

Bladder tumor antigen (BTA) is a common biomarker for urothelial carcinoma while bladder wall thickening (BWT) is a sign of urinary bladder irritation which suggests cystitis or early-stage bladder cancer pathology, most especially in the absence of bladder outlet obstruction. The aim of this study was to find the incidence of urinary bladder thickness and evaluate the relationship between BTA and BWT in a low schistosomiasis-endemic Nigerian village.

Materials and Methods:

The study was descriptive and cross-sectional. Freshly passed mid-day urine samples of 56 individuals were screened using chemical reagent strips and then diagnosed microscopically for Schistosoma haematobium. Subsequent follow-up involving ultrasound examination was carried out on distended bladder. The lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) were also recorded. Urinary BTA analysis was carried out on the urine samples using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:

The prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis in the area was 3.6%. The overall prevalence of human BTA and BWT in the individuals was 44.6 and 35.7%, respectively. The LUTS were associated with BWT (P = 0.004; odds ratio = 6.0; 95% confidence interval = 1.8–20.3). BTA, BWT, and LUTS were not sex and age dependent (P > 0.05). In addition, there was no association between urinary BTA, BWT, and LUTS (P > 0.05). The sensitivity of BWT and LUTS (60.0%) was improved than when either was used to diagnose BTA.

Conclusion:

The high occurrence of BTA and BWT in the individuals suggests that they may be prone to urothelial carcinoma and urinary bladder irritation, respectively. The role of urogenital schistosomiasis in urinary BTA levels needs to be further explored.
De toekomst van het accountantsberoep: bedreigingen en kansen
Authors: Sneekes Ada
Published: April 2018

Op basis van verschillende wetenschappelijke bronnen ontstaat de impressie dat de toekomst van het accountantsberoep onzeker is. Zo zouden technologische ontwikkelingen het beroep overbodig kunnen maken. Maar wat is het perspectief vanuit de accountancy zelf op de toekomst van het accountantsberoep? Uit een zoekopdracht naar praktijkpublicaties met toekomstvisies van de Big 4 en beroepsorganisaties blijkt ten eerste dat zij de afgelopen jaren in toenemende mate over dit onderwerp publiceren. Een nieuwe richting voor het accountantsberoep lijkt dus nodig vanuit het perspectief van de praktijk. Een inhoudsanalyse op 32 van deze publicaties wijst vervolgens uit dat accountants nieuwe technologie juist zien als een kans. Technologie kan helpen de controlepraktijk te verbeteren en biedt mogelijkheden voor nieuwe diensten. Daarnaast erkennen zij de nodige verbeterpunten, zoals de accountants’ vaardigheden, relevantie van de rapportages en focus in het controleproces. In dit artikel wordt een samenvatting gegeven van deze en meer bedreigingen en kansen voor het accountantsberoep, zoals dat naar voren komt uit de praktijkpublicaties.