bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Verapamil Inhibits Aspergillus Biofilm, but Antagonizes Voriconazole
Authors: Nazik Hasan , Choudhary Varun , Stevens David
Published: September 2017

The paucity of effective antifungals against Aspergillus and increasing resistance, the recognition of the importance of Aspergillus biofilm in several clinical settings, and reports of verapamil—a calcium channel blocker—efficacy against Candida biofilm and hyphal growth, and synergy with an azole antifungal in vitro, led to a study of verapamil ± voriconazole against Aspergillus. Broth macrodilution methodology was utilized for MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) and MFC (minimum fungicidal concentration) determination. The metabolic effects (assessed by XTT [2,3-bis[2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl]-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide inner salt]) on biofilm formation by conidia were studied upon exposure to verapamil, verapamil plus voriconazole, or voriconazole alone. For biofilm formation, we found less inhibition from the combinations than with either drug alone, or less inhibition from the combination than that of the more potent drug alone. For preformed biofilm, we found no significant change in activity comparing voriconazole alone compared to added verapamil, and no significant alteration of activity of the more potent voriconazole, at any concentration in the range tested, by addition of a concentration of verapamil that is inhibitory alone. In full checkerboard assays with planktonic fungus, there was no indication of any effect of one drug on the other (indifference). Although verapamil was similarly inactive against planktonic Aspergillus, as with Candida, verapamil was indeed active against Aspergillus biofilm. However, indifference and antagonism was found with voriconazole.
Correction: Zhang, G.; Cheng, G.; Jia, P.; Jiao, S.; Feng, C.; Hu, T.; Liu, H.; Du, Y. The Positive Correlation of the Enhanced Immune Response to PCV2 Subunit Vaccine by Conjugation of Chitosan Oligosaccharide with the Deacetylation Degree. Marine Drugs 2017, 15, 236
Authors: Zhang Guiqiang , Cheng Gong , Jia Peiyuan , Jiao Siming , Feng Cui , Hu Tao , Liu Hongtao , Du Yuguang
Published: September 2017

The authors wish to correct Figure 1 in this paper [1] to be as follows:[...]
Numerical and Experimental Investigation of the Influence of Growth Restriction on Grain Size in Binary Cu Alloys
Authors: Cziegler Andreas , Geraseva Olga , Schumacher Peter
Published: September 2017

Grain refinement by elemental addition has been extensively investigated within the last decades in Al or Mg alloys. In contrast, in the Cu system, the role of solute on grain size is less investigated. In this study, the grain refinement potency of several alloying elements of the Cu system was examined. To predict grain size depending on the growth restriction factor Q, grain size modelling was performed. The results obtained by the grain size model were compared to variations in the grain size of binary Cu alloys with increasing solute content under defined cooling conditions of the TP-1 grain refiner test of the Aluminium Association©. It was found that the experimental results differed significantly from the predicted grain size values for several alloying elements. A decreasing grain size with increasing alloy concentration was observed independently of the growth restriction potency of the alloying elements. Furthermore, excessive grain coarsening was found for several solutes beyond a transition point. It is assumed that contradictory variations in grain size result from a change in the nucleating particle density of the melt. Significant decreases in grain size are supposed to be due to the in-situ formation of potent nucleation sites. Excessive grain coarsening with increasing solute content may occur due to the removal of nucleating particles. The model shows that the difference in the actual number of particles before and beyond the transition point must be in the range of several orders of magnitude.
Custom-Designed Glassy Carbon Tips for Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Zakhurdaeva Anna , Dietrich Philipp-Immanuel , Hölscher Hendrik , Koos Christian , Korvink Jan , Sharma Swati
Published: September 2017

Glassy carbon is a graphenic form of elemental carbon obtained from pyrolysis of carbon-rich precursor polymers that can be patterned using various lithographic techniques. It is electrically and thermally conductive, mechanically strong, light, corrosion resistant and easy to functionalize. These properties render it very suitable for Carbon-microelectromechanical systems (Carbon-MEMS) and nanoelectromechanical systems (Carbon-NEMS) applications. Here we report on the fabrication and characterization of fully operational, microfabricated glassy carbon nano-tips for Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). These tips are 3D-printed on to micro-machined silicon cantilevers by Two-Photon Polymerization (2PP) of acrylate-based photopolymers (commercially known as IP-series resists), followed by their carbonization employing controlled pyrolysis, which shrinks the patterned structure by ≥98% in volume. Tip performance and robustness during contact and dynamic AFM modes are validated by morphology and wear tests. The design and pyrolysis process optimization performed for this work indicate which parameters require special attention when IP-series polymers are used for the fabrication of Carbon-MEMS and NEMS. Microstructural characterization of the resulting material confirms that it features a frozen percolated network of graphene sheets accompanied by disordered carbon and voids, similar to typical glassy carbons. The presented facile fabrication method can be employed for obtaining a variety of 3D glassy carbon nanostructures starting from the stereolithographic designs provided by the user.
Diagnostic Value of Endotracheal Aspirates Sonication on Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Microbiologic Diagnosis
Authors: Fernández-Barat Laia , Motos Ana , Ranzani Otavio , Bassi Gianluigi , Aguilera Xiol Elisabet , Senussi Tarek , Travierso Chiara , Chiurazzi Chiara , Idone Francesco , Muñoz Laura , Vila Jordi , Ferrer Miquel , Pelosi Paolo , Blasi Francesco , Antonelli Massimo , Torres Antoni
Published: September 2017

Microorganisms are able to form biofilms within respiratory secretions. Methods to disaggregate such biofilms before utilizing standard, rapid, or high throughput diagnostic technologies may aid in pathogen detection during ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) diagnosis. Our aim was to determine if sonication of endotracheal aspirates (ETA) would increase the sensitivity of qualitative, semi-quantitative, and quantitative bacterial cultures in an animal model of pneumonia caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa or by methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Material and methods: P. aeruginosa or MRSA was instilled into the lungs or the oropharynx of pigs in order to induce severe VAP. Time point assessments for qualitative and quantitative bacterial cultures of ETA and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples were performed at 24, 48, and 72 h after bacterial instillation. In addition, at 72 h (autopsy), lung tissue was harvested to perform quantitative bacterial cultures. Each ETA sample was microbiologically processed with and without applying sonication for 5 min at 40 KHz before bacterial cultures. Sensitivity and specificity were determined using BAL as a gold-standard. Correlation with BAL and lung bacterial burden was also determined before and after sonication. Assessment of biofilm clusters and planktonic bacteria was performed through both optical microscopy utilizing Gram staining and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy utilizing the LIVE/DEAD®BacLight kit. Results: 33 pigs were included, 27 and 6 from P. aeruginosa and MRSA pneumonia models, respectively. Overall, we obtained 85 ETA, 69 (81.2%) from P. aeruginosa and 16 (18.8%) from MRSA challenged pigs. Qualitative cultures did not significantly change after sonication, whereas quantitative ETA cultures did significantly increase bacterial counting. Indeed, sonication consistently increased bacterial burden in ETAs at 24, 48, and 72 h after bacterial challenge. Sonication also improved sensitivity of ETA quantitative cultures and maintained specificity at levels previously reported and accepted for VAP diagnosis. Conclusion: The use of sonication in ETA respiratory samples needs to be clinically validated since sonication could potentially improve pathogen detection before standard, rapid, or high throughput diagnostic methods used in routine microbial diagnostics.
Chemoinformatic Database Building and in Silico Hit-Identification of Potential Multi-Targeting Bioactive Compounds Extracted from Mushroom Species
Authors: Maruca Annalisa , Moraca Federica , Rocca Roberta , Molisani Fulvia , Alcaro Francesca , Gidaro Maria , Alcaro Stefano , Costa Giosuè , Ortuso Francesco
Published: September 2017

Mushrooms are widely-consumed fungi which contain natural compounds that can be used both for their nutritive and medicinal properties, i.e., taking advantage of their antimicrobial, antiviral, antitumor, anti-allergic, immunomodulation, anti-inflammatory, anti-atherogenic, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects. Currently, scientific interest in natural compounds extracted from the fungal species is increasing because these compounds are also known to have pharmacological/biological activity. Unfortunately, however, their mechanisms of action are often unknown, not well understood or have not been investigated in their entirety. Given the poly-pharmacological properties of bioactive fungal compounds, it was decided to carry out a multi-targeted approach to predict possible interactions occurring among bioactive natural fungal extracts and several macromolecular targets that are therapeutically interesting, i.e., proteins, enzymes and nucleic acids. A chemical database of compounds extracted from both edible and no-edible mushrooms was created. This database was virtually screened against 43 macromolecular targets downloaded from the Protein Data Bank website. The aim of this work is to provide a molecular description of the main interactions involving ligand/multi-target recognition in order to understand the polypharmacological profile of the most interesting fungal extracts and to suggest a design strategy of new multi-target agents.
Cytotoxic and Apoptotic Activities of Prunus spinosa Trigno Ecotype Extract on Human Cancer Cells
Authors: Meschini Stefania , Pellegrini Evelin , Condello Maria , Occhionero Giovanni , Delfine Sebastiano , Condello Giancarlo , Mastrodonato Franco
Published: September 2017

The aim of this work was to demonstrate that a natural compound, not-toxic to normal cells, has cytotoxic and sensitizing effects on carcinoma cells, with the final goal of combining it with chemotherapeutic drugs to reduce the overall dose. Prunus spinosa Trigno ecotype (PsT) drupe extract with a nutraceutical activator complex (NAC) made of amino acids, vitamins and mineral salt blends, has shown in vitro anticancer activity. The cytotoxic effect of (PsT + NAC)® has been evaluated on human cancer cells, with an initial screening with colorectal, uterine cervical, and bronchoalveolar cells, and a subsequent focus on colon carcinoma cells HCT116 and SW480. The viability reduction of HCT116 and SW480 after treatment with (PsT 10 mg/mL + NAC)® was about 40% (p < 0.05), compared to control cells. The cell’s survival reduction was ineffective when the drug vehicle (NAC) was replaced with a phosphate buffer saline (PBS) or physiological solution (PS). The flow cytometry evaluation of cancer cells’ mitochondrial membrane potential showed an increase of 20% depolarized mitochondria. Cell cycle analysis showed a sub G1 (Gap 1 phase) peak appearance (HCT116: 35.1%; SW480: 11.6%), indicating apoptotic cell death induction that was confirmed by Annexin V assay (HCT116: 86%; SW480: 96%). Normal cells were not altered by (PsT + NAC)® treatments.
Efficient Approach to Carbinol Derivatives through Palladium-Catalyzed Base-Free Addition of Aryltriolborates to Aldehydes
Authors: Hu Kun , Ye Pengqing , Zhen Qianqian , Yao Xinrong , Xu Tong , Shao Yinlin , Chen Jiuxi
Published: September 2017

Palladium-catalyzed base-free addition of aryltriolborates to aldehydes has been developed, leading to a wide range of carbinol derivatives in good to excellent yields. The efficiency of this transformation was demonstrated by compatibility with a wide range of functional groups. The present synthetic route to carbinol derivatives could be readily scaled up to gram quantity without difficulty. Thus, this method represents a simple and practical procedure to access carbinol derivatives.
Calibration of the Water Cloud Model at C-Band for Winter Crop Fields and Grasslands
Authors: Baghdadi Nicolas , El Hajj Mohammad , Zribi Mehrez , Bousbih Safa
Published: September 2017

In a perspective to develop an inversion approach for estimating surface soil moisture of crop fields from Sentinel-1/2 data (radar and optical sensors), the Water Cloud Model (WCM) was calibrated from C-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) values collected over crops fields and grasslands. The soil contribution that depends on soil moisture and surface roughness (in addition to SAR instrumental parameters) was simulated using the physical backscattering model IEM (Integral Equation Model). The vegetation descriptor used in the WCM is the NDVI because it can be directly calculated from optical images. A large dataset consisting of radar backscattered signal in Vertical transmit and Vertical receive (VV) and Vertical transmit and Horizontal receive (VH) polarizations with wide range of incidence angle, soil moisture, surface roughness, and NDVI-values was used. It was collected over two agricultural study sites. Results show that the soil contribution to the total radar backscattered signal is lower in VH than in VV because VH is more sensitive to vegetation cover. Thus, the use of VH alone or in addition to VV for retrieving the soil moisture is not advantageous in presence of well-developed vegetation cover.
Sensitive Genotyping of Foodborne-Associated Human Noroviruses and Hepatitis A Virus Using an Array-Based Platform
Authors: Quiñones Beatriz , Lee Bertram , Martinsky Todd , Yambao Jaszemyn , Haje Paul , Schena Mark
Published: September 2017

Human noroviruses (NoV) are the leading cause of human gastroenteritis in populations of all ages and are linked to most of the foodborne outbreaks worldwide. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is another important foodborne enteric virus and is considered the most common agent causing acute liver disease worldwide. In the present study, a focused, low-density DNA microarray was developed and validated for the simultaneous identification of foodborne-associated genotypes of NoV and HAV. By employing a novel algorithm, capture probes were designed to target variable genomic regions commonly used for typing these foodborne viruses. Validation results showed that probe signals, specific for the tested NoV or HAV genotypes, were on average 200-times or 38-times higher than those detected for non-targeted genotypes, respectively. To improve the analytical sensitivity of this method, a 12-mer oligonucleotide spacer sequence was added to the capture probes and resulted in a detection threshold of less than 10 cRNA transcripts. These findings have indicated that this array-based typing sensor has the accuracy and sensitivity for identifying NoV and HAV genotypic profiles predominantly linked to food poisoning. The implementation of this typing sensor would thus provide highly relevant and valuable information for use in surveillance and outbreak attribution.
A Comparison of Dynamic Strength Index between Team-Sport Athletes
Authors: Thomas Christopher , Dos’Santos Thomas , Jones Paul
Published: September 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine the differences in countermovement jump peak force (CMJ-PF), isometric mid-thigh pull peak force (IMTP-PF), and resultant dynamic strength index (DSI) values between team-sport athletes. One hundred and fifteen male and female team-sport athletes performed the CMJ and IMTP to determine peak force (CMJ-PF and IMTP-PF, respectively). Statistically and practically significant differences (p ≤ 0.050; d = 0.49–1.32) in CMJ-PF were evident between teams. Specifically, the greatest CMJ-PFs were produced by the male cricket players and were followed in order by the male basketball, male soccer, female netball, female cricket, and female soccer players. Statistically and practically significant differences (p ≤ 0.045; d = 0.64–1.78) in IMTP-PF existed among sports teams, with the greatest IMTP-PFs were produced by the male soccer players and were followed in order by the male cricket, male basketball, female netball, female soccer, and female cricket players. Statistically and practically significant differences (p ≤ 0.050; d = 0.92–1.44) in DSI were found between teams. These findings demonstrate that CMJ-PF, IMTP-PF, and DSI differ between sports teams and provide normative data for ballistic and isometric PF measures. Strength and conditioning coaches should consider relative changes in CMJ-PF and IMTP-PF when assessing DSI ratios.
Contrefaçon et terrorisme : comprendre les mécanismes
Authors: Gomez Carole
Published: September 2017

Moins exposée médiatiquement que le trafic de stupéfiants ou la traite d’êtres humains, la contrefaçon demeure pourtant un pilier de la criminalité organisée, certaines études la plaçant même au premier rang en termes de revenus générés. Depuis une dizaine d’années, plusieurs rapports mettent en évidence le financement de groupes terroristes par ce procédé. L’ETA, l’IRA, Al-Qaïda ou encore l’État islamique n’ont ainsi pas hésité à utiliser cette activité simple, rapide, et surtout très lucrative et moins risquée que les autres trafics. Si la lutte passe évidemment par la mise en œuvre d’outils coercitifs et d’harmonisation plus efficaces, la prévention et l’information des consommateurs demeurent un enjeu de premier plan.
Post-fire succession: Selected examples from the Karst region, southwest Slovenia
Authors: Stančič Liza , Repe Blaž
Published: September 2017

Forests in Submediterranean Slovenia are threatened by wildfires every year. The article presents the main characteristics of post-fire regeneration in the Karst area. The rate of succession was studied by comparing two burned sites with different periods after the last fire. Field plant sampling was used to determine the plant cover and species composition on each site. Vegetation characteristics were contrasted with nearby unburned sites. We found that the plant species composition of burned areas is similar to that of areas unaffected by wildfire, and that the monitored site has been colonised by specific pioneer plant species five years after the wildfire.
Forest Patch Connectivity: The Case of the Kranj–Sora Basin, Slovenia
Authors: Polenšek Maja , Pirnat Janez
Published: September 2017

This article features a spatial analysis of forest patches, trees, and shrubs outside forests in part of the Kranj–Sora Basin in central Slovenia. Forest patch connectivity is explored using methods derived from graph theory. The graph nodes represent the forest patches and the edges between them represent the shortest connections calculated using a raster layer containing data on the resistance of individual land-use types. The contribution of an individual forest patch to habitat connectivity and availability is calculated using selected indicators. The findings show that the largest forest patches complemented by smaller patches constitute the basic connectivity tool. Thus, habitat size and close-to-nature structure are vital for the conservation of species over short distances. In conclusion, guidelines are presented for managing and mitigating the effects of further clearing the remaining natural vegetation.
Demographic characteristics of creative workers: under-activated development potentials in Slovenia?
Authors: Kozina Jani
Published: September 2017

The purpose of the article is to present the key demographic characteristics of the creative labour force in Slovenia and bring attention to some opportunities for a more effective activation of the creative potential. We analysed data from the Statistical Register of Employment. The results indicate that creative workers in Slovenia are not only heterogeneous from the aspect of the employment structure, but that they also differ significantly in terms of gender, age, education, and ethnicity. Even though Slovenia can be compared to the most developed countries in the scope of the creative labour force, it will have to work on stimulating additional development potentials to make it to the top of the list. We conclude that, in the future, a more prominent role should be given to the female creative labour force, young bohemians, and foreign creative people.
Nitrogen and Phosphorus Pollution in Goričko Nature Park
Authors: Ilić Darijo , Panjan Jože
Published: September 2017

This article deals with the impact of diffuse and point sources of nitrogen and phosphorus pollution on the environment in Goričko Nature Park. The park was divided into three parts: the Ledava, Big Krka (Velika Krka), and Kobilje Creek (Kobiljski potok) basins, which were then compared. The surface waters were monitored and their chemical composition was examined. All three areas are characterized by elevated levels of nitrogen and phosphorus compounds in the water. Nitrogen and phosphorus pollution results from unregulated manure pits on livestock farms, unregulated sewage systems, and runoff of nitrogen and phosphorus compounds from farmland.
«Escritores a la moderna»: Los liberales o los filósofos del día, sin máscara y sin rebozo. Comedia joco-seria en un acto (1811), o decálogo del mal patriota
Authors: Martínez Baro Jesús
Published: September 2017

El 10 de noviembre de 1810, casi siete semanas después de que tuviera lugar la primera sesión de las Cortes de Cádiz, se firmaba el decreto que promulgaba la libertad de imprenta. Este acontecimiento permitió la salida de múltiples impresos y periódicos que vinieron a recrudecer la contienda ideológica entre liberales y absolutistas. Fueron muchos los que usaron estructuras que acercaban la crítica a la ficción literaria, con un contenido en clara evolución desde el mensaje patriótico hacia la invectiva política. En este proceso se incluye la pieza teatral “Los liberales o los filósofos del día, sin máscara y sin rebozo”, publicada en Cádiz en 1811. En ella varios personajes, liderados por el Diablo Cojuelo, deciden trabajar como escritores «a la moderna». Para este fin siguen varias reglas basadas en la repetición de voces embaucadoras, los ataques al gremio eclesiástico, las injurias contra el Santo Oficio y el corporativismo ante la sátira enemiga. Censinato Vigornia, representante de la grey servil, critica con sus intervenciones cada argumento enemigo, en un intento de reforzar el verdadero patriotismo y desprestigiar la línea de pensamiento liberal.
Deliberate Self-Harm and Suicide Ideology in Medical Students
Authors: Gopalan Vinod , Chan Erick , Ho Debbie Thao Thanh
Published: September 2017

The risk of deliberate self-harm (DSH) and suicide ideology in medical students is a pertinent issue that has received a surge in attention over recent years. Medical students are at risk of normalisation of DSH and suicide ideology despite their mental health literacy levels and are still susceptible to the stigma of help-seeking for their mental wellbeing. This chapter will explore assessment, preventative and management strategies to improve education, awareness and ultimately reduce the rates of DSH and suicide risk. A comprehensive review of practices and techniques that medical training community and their family members could utilise to aid medical students to adequately and safety manage DSH and suicide ideology. This will assist in identifying crucial areas for future research to aid students, professionals, family and friends in supporting medical student health to optimise mental health overall wellbeing of medical students.
Digital Marketing
Authors: Pereira da Mota Cesar , Isaías Pedro
Published: September 2017

Despite the fact that the branding of football is not a new phenomenon, the emergence of new media has provided the means and the opportunity for the widespread promotion of football club's brands. At the same time, the growing popularity of social media among football fan has empowered them to express their opinions and has granted them unlimited resources for information search and exchange. This chapter aims to examine the relationship that exists between Real Madrid's digital marketing actions and its promotion as a brand and the loyalty of its supporters. An online questionnaire was distributed among sports and football fans in order to identify their profile, their preferred communication channels, their use of social media and their knowledge about Real Madrid.
The Educational Use of Digital Storytelling in Virtual Classes of Entrepreneurship
Authors: Carvalho Luisa Cagica , Cibrão Bruno
Published: September 2017

Nowadays there is a consensus on the importance that is given to entrepreneurship in the creation of wealth and employment in countries. In this context, entrepreneurship education is particular relevant. In fact, although there are currently several studies that investigates teaching methods of entrepreneurship in classroom, this subject continues understudied with regard to virtual classes where physical distance can difficult or even make impossible the use of some of the methodologies reported in several studies on this matter. Therefore, this chapter gives some background on the notion of Digital Storytelling, enhancing its relevance to the development of entrepreneurial skills, taking into account their particularities and the appropriate technologies. It also presents a study on the application of this methodology in a virtual class of entrepreneurship at Universidade Aberta (UAb). The results of virtual class students' perception on the use of Digital Storytelling in entrepreneurship teaching, suggests benefits in the use of this methodology.
The Evolution of E-Learning in the Global Context and the Influence of Motivational Factors
Authors: Cechella Cristiano Dias , Generali da Costa Silvia , Colomby Renato Koch
Published: September 2017

E-learning can be defined as a teaching-learning process supported by equipment and electronic resources based content. Reinforced during World War II with the massification of educational films applied to the army formation and asserting itself after the computerization of society and its connection via telematic networks in the late twentieth century, the e- learning includes a historical dimension that analyzes theoretical, technological and pedagogical assumptions. This chapter aims to point out ways for e-learning, based on their motivational factors. Thus, in the light of learning theories and affective and cognitive issues, as well as the history of the emergence of e-learning, this chapter suggests elements for the development of learning models supported by digital technologies, such as: the choice of the most appropriate tools for the students' reality; the investment in technology and teachers and students training.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit Based on Social Values
Authors: Sánchez-Fernández María Dolores , Manríquez Martha Ríos
Published: September 2017

In this work, within the framework of Institutional Theory and based on the socially responsible values, we analyzed the entrepreneurial spirit of the future entrepreneurs of Generation Z, (the digital generation) (Scott, 2013). This was an exploratory and quantitative study developed between January and May in 2016. The data were analyzed using the statistics software SPSS and using a descriptive analysis with a multivariate factor analysis. The objective of this study involved discovering what motivates and influences the future entrepreneurs of Generation Z in the implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices. The results that present this work, seek to help the institutions to receive a greater rate of return on investment from the actions that influence future entrepreneurs.
Toward a B-Society Model
Authors: Alves da Veiga Pedro , Tavares Mirian , Alvelos Heitor
Published: September 2017

This chapter seeks to legitimize the biological ecosystem concept as an expanded analogy for representing relationships between agents of the social, cultural and artistic systems involved in the creation, research, exhibition, enjoyment, experimentation and education of digital media art, including organisational, participatory and socio-economic integration aspects. It also aims at demonstrating the virtual/material dichotomy anachronism, proposing as an alternative the blended reality concept. By exploring the mechanisms of individual artistic and intellectual emancipation of the digital media art universe, it seeks to demonstrate how the relationships between the various ecosystem agents are becoming increasingly blended, leading to the creation of b-ecosystems, in short, a b-society.
Cultural Evolution, Memes, and Proper Names
Authors: Vaupot Sonia
Published: September 2017

Based on the theory of cultural evolution and memetics, this paper examines the procedures of translation of proper names as memes. Firstly, it proposes an overview of contemporary theories of cultural translation, including the theory of cultural evolution. Secondly, on the basis of the above-mentioned theoretical framework of cultural evolution and the use of the proper name, the central aim of this paper is to analyze the role of memes in translation. Lastly, after presenting and categorizing the proper names as realia words and memes, this paper will verify the (un)translatability of proper names from a multilingual point of view (French, English and Slovene) and illustrate the use of some translation procedures for the rendition of proper names as cultural memes.
The Strata of Subcultural Translation
Authors: Kharmandar Mohammad Ali
Published: September 2017

This study proposes a new understanding of cultural evolution through translations embedded in subcultures. The underlying argument is that translation does not evenly and equally affect all social strata in a given culture, but there are selective (inclusive and exclusive) mechanisms that diversify a culture into several usually competing sub-groups. Evolution through translation takes place in parallel and very different sub-streams as subcultures. To make this understanding possible, however, some taken-for-granted notions should be revisited in translation studies (TS) and some gaps should be filled before subcultural translation can be framed. This study proposes an analytic whole in which a momentum of change in history leads to a reacquisition of disposition in cultural subjects, ultimately shaping a form of capital realized as semiotic/lingual translation. To explain this process, Foucault's historical discontinuity, Ricoeur's narrative identity, and Bourdieu's capital are incorporated.
Factoring the Agency of Patronage in the Production of Meaning
Authors: Biancheri Debora
Published: September 2017

In this chapter, the evolution of Heaney's reception in Italy will be linked to the development of normative behaviors within the publishing industry sector. Therefore, a fundamental aspect highlighted by the present analysis is the connection between the evolution of the publishing sector's policies and agendas and the translation strategies employed to introduce foreign literature onto the Italian market. In this sense, it is argued that the prerogatives of publishers have direct bearing on the nature of Heaney's representations in Italy and thus the impact that his poetic legacy can potentially have on the Italian cultural paradigm. Patrons and practitioners are on the one hand assessed as the objects of cultural evolution, but they are also called into question as agents affecting it, to the extent that they directly influence translation practice and have control of the mediums through which complex literary endeavours such as Heaney's enter the Italian market as a cultural product ready for consumption.
Prison Education in Europe
Authors: Behan Cormac
Published: September 2017

Prison education in Europe differs across countries and jurisdictions. While there are some common features that link the countries of Europe together, this chapter examines the similarities and differences across a range of jurisdictions linked more by geography than ideology in prison education programs. It begins by locating imprisonment in its wider social, political, economic and cultural contexts. Due to the characteristics of the particular learner group and unique environment, this chapter contends that a more informal, non-traditional approach to education is necessary to realize the potential for education in prison. It examines how the space for pedagogy can be achieved in coercive environments by positioning prison education within an adult education approach and concludes with some recommendations for future research.
Learning Programs or Educational Curricula for Prisons in the Twenty-First Century?
Authors: Biao Idowu
Published: September 2017

This chapter states that there exists a difference between a learning program and an educational curriculum. Beneficiary-learners participate in the development, implementation and evaluation of learning programs whereas educational curricula are offered by some authorities who hardly consult with potential learners and who oversee the fashioning, execution and evaluation of the programs they have developed. The chapter draws attention to the fact that with regards to education in prison, the world is currently divided into three camps (nations that believe in the provision of a full range of educational services to prisoners, those that hold the view that only a limited provision of educational services is needed and nations that think prisoners deserve no education). The chapter ends by supplying a rationale for the provision of learning programs to the prisoner and the psycho-social and temporal sources from where the building blocks for such learning programs should be derived.
Enablers and Facilitators for Sustainable Implementation of E-Services in Two-Sided Markets and Ecosystems
Authors: Vimarlund Vivian
Published: September 2017

E-health innovations are globally described as one of the major driving forces to innovate health and social care because its potential contribution to improve quality, access to care, and to engage patients in decisions related to their own health and wellbeing .However, despite the increasing number of reports that indicate the potential savings and benefits that e-health services can bring to the sector, generic implementation of e-health services that contribute to develop and sustain new ways to deliver health and social care are not yet reported. In this chapter, we suggest enablers and facilitators for generic implementation of e-health services in two-sided markets as e-health.
Smart Animation Tools
Authors: Kenwright Benjamin
Published: September 2017

This chapter discusses the inherent limitations in conventional animation techniques and possible solutions through optimisation and machine learning paradigms. For example, going beyond pre–recorded animation libraries towards more intelligent self-learning models. These models present a range of difficulties in real-world solutions, such as, computational cost, flexibility, and most importantly, artistic control. However, as we discuss in this chapter, advancements in massively parallel processing power and hybrid models provides a transitional medium for these solutions (best of both worlds). We review trends and state of the art techniques and their viability in industry. A particular area of active animation is self–driven characters (i.e., agents mimic the real-world through physics-based models). We discuss and debate each techniques practicality in solving and overcoming current and future limitations.
Peer Group Situations and Games With Grey Uncertainty
Authors: Alparslan-Gök Sırma Zeynep , Palancı Osman , Yücesan Züleyha
Published: September 2017

In many economic and Operations Research (OR) situations the social configuration of the organization, influences the potential possibilities of all the groups of agents. The important group for an agent consists of the leader, the agent himself and all the intermediate agents that exist in the given hierarchy (peer group). In this study, peer group situations where grey uncertainty is included. Peer group grey situations are introduced and related peer group grey games are constructed. The grey Shapley value is specified as a solution concept with a proposition. As an application auction situations are considered. Finally, a conclusion is given.
Computational Thinking and Young Children
Authors: Sullivan Amanda , Bers Marina Umaschi
Published: September 2017

Over the past few years, new approaches to introducing young children to computational thinking have grown in popularity. This chapter examines the role that user interfaces have on children's mastery of computational thinking concepts, programming ability, and positive interpersonal behaviors. It presents two technologies designed specifically for young children: the KIBO robotics kit and the ScratchJr programming application, both of which focus on teaching young children introductory computational thinking skills in a cognitively and socio-emotionally developmentally appropriate way. The KIBO robotics kit engages children in learning programming by using tangible wooden blocks (no screens or keyboards required). ScratchJr also teaches foundational programming, but using a graphical language on a tablet device. This chapter presents examples of how each tool can be used in classroom settings and the potential benefits and drawbacks of each interface style. Suggestions for implementing each technology in a developmentally appropriate way are presented.
Robotics in Early Childhood Education
Authors: Öztürk Hayriye Tuğba , Calingasan Lorina
Published: September 2017

This study aimed to present best practices for robotics in early childhood education based on a case study. Positive Technological Development (PTD) framework was utilised as a theoretical framework suitable for robotics and children education studies. The developmentally appropriateness of the robotics resources for the children was also discovered to make recommendations for the educators. Since robotics in education is an emerging area, through evidence based findings, it is aimed to contribute to the effective use of robotics in education with presenting examples from the children's learning process with robotics.
Those Who Rarely Attend Alone
Authors: Hedlund David P. , Biscaia Rui , Leal Maria do Carmo
Published: September 2017

Sport fans rarely attend sporting events alone. While traditional consumer and sport fan behavior research frequently segmented fans based on demographic characteristics, recent advances in understanding how sport fans co-create and co-consume sporting events provides substantial evidence that sports fans should be examined as tribal groups. In this chapter, seven dimensions of sport fan tribalism are proposed and tested (membership; geographic sense of community; social recognition; shared rivalry; and shared knowledge of symbols, rituals and traditions, and people) with samples from top-level American college football (Division I American football) and the top level of professional Portuguese soccer (Primeira Liga). The results provide reliability and validity evidence in support of the seven-dimension scale. In addition, the structural testing of the scale highlights differences between tribal fans and their teams (relative to other teams) in terms of five behavioral intentions and two commitment- related outcome variables. The implications of labeling sports fans at tribal, the use of the seven-dimension scale and the structural results are all discussed.
I Love to See Them Lose
Authors: Havard Cody T. , Wann Daniel L. , Ryan Timothy D.
Published: September 2017

The following chapter provides an intimate look at sport fans, the identification they have with a favorite team, and their relationship with teams identified as rivals. In particular, team identification and rival perceptions were used to investigate the Glory Out of Reflected Failure (GORFing, excitement when the rival loses to someone other than the favorite team) phenomenon and fan likelihood of considering anonymous acts of aggression. Results showed that team identification influenced the perceptions fan have of their rival teams, the likelihood of considering anonymous aggression, and the GORFing phenomenon. Further, fan rival perceptions also influenced fan anonymous aggression and the likelihood of GORFing. The chapter also answered the call by Havard, Inoue, Dalakas, and Ryan (2017) by showing that GORFing is the competitive nature of schadenfreude and the phenomena are distinct. Discussion focuses on implications of the findings and areas for future research.
Living in a Virtual Reality
Authors: Zeng Chengyan
Published: September 2017

Anime (animated films) and manga (comic books), fans are easily misunderstood and can even face prejudice. In fact, they are usually not as people see them. As one of the many anime and manga fans, I would like to show people what the real world of the anime and manga fan is like. As the fan population grows, the market increases, so this chapter will also act as a guide for those who are interested in this market. This chapter aims to introduce readers to the world of anime and manga fandom and to its fans, in particular. It will present and explain specific terms such as weeaboo, otaku, waifu, husbando, fujoshi, and critic. This chapter will also describe the different characters of anime and manga fans and explain how these characters can affect marketing. Finally, this chapter will look at the current market size of anime and manga fandom and explore how the culture is used in marketing.
Poiesis and Video Games for Adults
Authors: Cipolla-Ficarra Francisco V. , Alma Jaqueline , Cipolla-Ficarra Miguel , Carré Jim
Published: September 2017

The first studies of the social sciences aimed at the videogames of the 80s and the methods to evaluate the usability engineering of the 90s have highlighted a set of positive and negative aspects in the human-computer interaction which go from the ergonomic aspects of the devices down to the motivations to draw the attention of the users in the interaction process. In this research we present the results reached with adult users in relation to the communicability and the usability in a classical videogame for PC. We also present the elements of interactive design which boost the poiesis in cultural heritage that the analyzed videogame contains.
Principals and Student Achievement
Authors: Perry S. Marshall , Sealy Karen M. , Ramírez-Pérez Héctor X. , DeNicola Thomas C. , Cohen Yair
Published: September 2017

Connections between principal leadership activities, school context, and student achievement are examined within this paper. Data for this quantitative study are from the 2013 Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS) and the 2012 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). The eight countries of examination participated in both the TALIS and PISA and the researchers merged datasets, yielding a study sample of 1,301 schools. This paper supports a context-specific view of instructional leadership. When looking across countries, the researchers found different practices were more strongly associated with the academic achievement of students, and suggest that school leaders have a meaningful overall relationship with academic achievement, both directly and indirectly. This study therefore supports prior research about the direct and indirect effects of instructional leadership. Further study, which accounts for differences in family academic resources and school-level opportunities to learn, will better illuminate the connection between instructional leadership practices and academic achievement.
Implementing Structural Equation Modeling on Public Data
Authors: Cohen Yair , Morote Elsa-Sofia
Published: September 2017

The researchers used structural equation modeling (SEM) to create a model predicting fourth-grade student achievement in math by exploring the relationships among: student, household, school, and teacher factors. Public data from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) 2012–13 school report card data, NYSED fiscal reporting system, Census 2010 School District Demographics System, and 2011 Civil Right Data Collection were used from 1,263 schools in New York excluding New York City. Variables were chosen using this convenient sample and supported by our conceptual rationale. The model predicted fourth-grade math achievement with 67 percent of effect size. Household factors had strong predictive, while school attendance rate had medium predictive value for student achievement.
Sustainability Evaluation of IT/IS Projects
Authors: Silvius Gilbert
Published: September 2017

Sustainability is without doubt one of the most important challenges of our time. How can one develop prosperity without compromising the life of future generations? Companies are integrating concepts of sustainability in their marketing, corporate communications, annual reports and in their actions. Information technology (IT) and information systems (IS) provide organizations with the ability to change and improve business processes to better support sustainable practices. IT/IS evaluation methods should therefore reflect this ability and include criteria for the assessment of sustainability aspects of IT/IS projects. However, IT/IS evaluation methods are today still dominated by the economical perspective that resulted from the infamous IT productivity paradox. This paper aims to broaden the perspective on IT/IS evaluation, by exploring the integration of indicators that reflect the concepts of sustainability into IT/IS evaluation methods. Based on an identification IT/IS evaluation methods and an overview of frameworks for sustainability indicators, an analysis is made of the inclusion of the indicators and principles of sustainability assessment in IT/IS evaluation methods. The analysis will conclude that integrating sustainability considerations in IT/IS evaluation requires far more than a set of additional criteria to be considered.
Economics, Environmental Policy, Trade and Sustainability
Authors: Ghosh Nilanjan , Goswami Anandajit
Published: September 2017

Sustainability has to be measured by different tools of valuation. Furthermore, the philosophy behind environmental policy making also decides the way sustainability is perceived and measured in a society. Moreover, in a growing globalized world, trade regimes and routes also impact the social, economic and environmental segments of sustainability of trade partners. This chapter makes an attempt to outline these notions to bring a larger clarity on the subject of sustainability.
Role of HRM in Sustainable Organisational Development
Authors: Soliman Fawzy
Published: September 2017

This chapter explores the role Human Resource Management plays to support sustainable organisation development by controlling and managing valuable resources including employees of the organisation. The chapter presents the concept of sustainable organisation development as vital and important requirement to survive the competition in the current financial era. This chapter explains that sustainable development could enable organisations to overcome current market problems as well as achieve their goals. The chapter proposes that HRM can play a crucial role in developing strategic leadership and management capabilities and thus promote economic, social and environmental forms of sustainable development.