bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Contemporary Educational Network for Professional Development
Authors: Taskiran Ayse
Published: December 2019

As seen in every aspect of life, technology has triggered revolutionary developments that shape and direct learning environments. Development of information technologies and the Internet has triggered the spread of the languages all around the world through online communication. This has made the English language one of the most popular international languages that has become the most widely taught and learnt language ever. The English language has been embedded into national curriculum either as a required course or as an instructional medium in many countries. In teaching English as a foreign language (EFL) foreign language teachers are looking for innovative ways to involve the developing technology in the language teaching process in order to support their students’ learning as well as their professional development. As a social learning network, Edmodo, with millions of users worldwide stands out as a platform used frequently by educators and researchers. In relevant literature there is limited study focusing on teacher perception of Edmodo use in terms of professional development in EFL context. This study aims to obtain in-depth data including teachers opinions based on Edmodo use for their professional development. The data gained from the study might provide ideas for educators to make Edmodo more effective by revealing its most preferred, most commonly used features. In this study, as one of the qualitative methods, phenomenological research method is used. This is because the topic is about the individuals' first hand experiences and phenomenology focuses on the interpretations of those experiences regarding a phenomenon. The interviews, conducted with five EFL teachers, revealed mostly positive perceptions regarding Edmodo. According to majority of the participants, networks like Edmodo provide opportunities for life-long learning, international collaboration, keeping up-to-date, time and space independent communication, and convenience for getting mutual help and sharing.
Deconstructing Paper-Lined Cubicles: Digital Literacy and Information Technology Resources in the Workplace
Authors: Klassen Amanda
Published: December 2019

— Drawing on examples from workplace learning, trends in digital literacy needs and information technology-based resources are examined. As many organizations look to digitize learning and knowledge base materials, some employees struggle to integrate new technologies into their work routines, resulting in a re-emergence of paper-based resources. Researchers have linked digital reading preferences and performance to digital literacy [1, 2, 3] suggesting a need to develop advanced digital literacy training in the workplace. Further, there is evidence to suggest that learning and reading retention is lower on digital workstation devices, such as desktop computers [1]. I will argue efforts to digitize learning and knowledge base resources in the workplace needs to be supported by a strategy that demonstrates the value of new technology to employee’s experience, including ongoing digital literacy training and equipping employees with information technology resources that encourage the utilization of digital learning and reading materials.             
Computer Based Technology (CBT) Assessment implementation in a Nigerian Higher Institution and a Lecturer’s Work Stories: Implication for E-Counselling
Authors: Osegbo Ifeyinwa , Nwadinobi Vera
Published: December 2019

 Computer based Technology (CBT) assessment is a new practice in the conduct of examinations in Nigeria but it has its problems.  Many societies have accepted information technology as the way the world is moving, therefore this study aimed at investigating Lecturers perception of innovative computer based assessment format in a Nigerian College of Education.  Participants included 200 lecturers, 120 male and 80 female. The age range was between 30 and 64 years. They were randomly selected purposively from five schools in a college of Education in Nigeria. The design adopted was a cross-stage mixed-model design. Oral interview, structured questionnaire and focus group discussions were used to collect data.  Measured accessibility variable showed that 98% of lecturers have access to computer. However results on the knowledge requirements and usage variable revealed that many lecturers do not have adequate ability level in the use of computer especially the chief lecturers and older lecturers. The most challenging aspect of CBT assessment was found to be the Authoring Manager in transporting the questions to Qpack.  The findings of this study has implications for E-Counselling and attitudinal change.  Most Nigerian lecturers’ ability in the usage of computer is very low even though most of them have access to computers.  This could be linked to their attitude and perception towards the innovative CBT assessment which is that it is not necessary and should be discouraged. This calls for E-Counselling with emphasis on CBT assessment for optimal service delivery and international best practices in Nigerian higher institutions.
Popular Financial Reporting
Authors: Biancone Paolo Pietro , Secinaro Silvana , Brescia Valerio
Published: December 2019

The study intends to investigate the possibility of adopting popular financial reporting with a view to greater transparency, accountability, and sharing of results with stakeholders, and responding with this tool to requests for non-financial information. Governance and stakeholders often see a close correlation, and this is what gives rise to the need for non-financial information introduced by Directive 2014/95/EU. The answer to this need for transparency towards stakeholders arises first with the corporatization of public bodies, companies, and social utility bodies; then with the introduction of accounting harmonization within a rational accounting process. The research highlights the relevant aspects and approaches of popular financial reporting, assessing their compliance with the needs of the company, the needs of the stakeholders, and the needs of non-financial information to be considered quality after having analysed the other social reporting tools through the case study of the city of Turin.
Rehabilitation and Reuse of Rural Farms in a Region of Inner Sicily
Authors: Di Blasi Elena , Arangio Alessandro , Messina Nunziata
Published: December 2019

The rural landscape of inner Sicily has peculiar characteristics, deeply different from the ones of coastal Sicily, marked by the presence of citrus orchards, vineyards, and greenhouses. Inner Sicily was traditionally dominated by cereal latifundia. With low level cities (the main ones are all concentrated along the coasts), in the past a central role in the agrarian economy of this inland region was played by rural farms, called “masserie”. In the second half of the 20th century, the national agrarian reform opened the doors to profound changes. The inland areas were suddenly abandoned, while many coastal centres reported a significant population growth. The rural farms of inner Sicily were abandoned and bound to decay. In the last years, some of these “masserie” have been restored. They are of course an important resource that has to be exploited to generate richness. The chapter presents the experience of the territory of Aidone, rich in farms and resources.
Produce Internationally, Consume Locally
Authors: Erokhin Vasilii
Published: December 2019

China is one of the world's biggest importers of agricultural products. Until quite recently, China's agricultural policy focused on food self-sufficiency. Globalizing trade in agricultural commodities, however, has brought new challenges to establishing secure supply and achieving security rather than self-sufficiency. In the face of emerging trade tensions with the USA, one of China's responses to the emerging volatility of the global market is to expand production facilities abroad and thus diversify deliveries. This chapter discusses how China's Belt and Road Initiative may serve improving food security of the country by establishing of a predictable system of agricultural production and trade across Eurasia, particularly, with the involvement of land-abundant Russia and the countries of Central Asia. The author explores possible responses to emerging threats to China's domestic food market by elaborating an approach to theoretical definitions and practical issues of ensurance of food security and adaptation of China's policy to contemporary global challenges.
Critical Factors for Technology Transfer in Cattle Production
Authors: Torres-Aburto Víctor Fernando , Vázquez-Luna Dinora , Mancera Belisario Domínguez , Ortiz Valentín Efrén Espinosa
Published: December 2019

Cattle production plays an important role in economic development and food security. Developed countries have achieved optimum levels of production through the implementation of technologies that have allowed efficient use of resources. In contrast, in the developing countries, despite their suitable means of production, such as large tracts of land dedicated to livestock, and programs of nutrition and health, farmers have not widely adopted reproductive and productive supplementation. Therefore, this chapter explores the main critical factors that limit the transfer of technology in bovine production systems, analyzing the interaction between the models, actors, and means of production.
Design of a Garbage Collection Robot
Authors: Mushiri Tawanda , Gocheki Emmison
Published: December 2019

The Arduino is programmed to control the robot navigation. The Garbage Collection Robot is designed to collect solid waste at public places (schools, workplaces, and parks) and residential areas. The design of the robot is such that when it starts, it maneuvers as per programmed route. The Garbage Collector can sense by means of capacitive proximity sensors if the obstacle is living (for example, a human being) or non-living (for example, vehicle) and then gives appropriate warning signals like flashing light, hoot, or voice commands. The robot is equipped with vision capabilities in order for it to detect colors, namely green, red, yellow, blue, and black for organics, plastic, metal, paper, and glass, respectively. When the GCR sees a particular color code on garbage container, it picks up the bin, carries it in its carriage, then offloads it at a desired station to wait for recycling or final dumping.
Matrix Models of Cryptographic Transformations of Video Images Transmitted From Aerial-Mobile Robotic Systems
Authors: Krasilenko Vladimir G. , Lazarev Alexander , Nikitovich Diana
Published: December 2019

In this chapter, the authors consider the need and relevance of cryptographic transformation of images and video files that are transmitted from unmanned aircraft, airborne robots. The authors propose and consider new multifunctional matrix-algebraic models of cryptographic image transformations, the variety of matrix models, including block parametrical and matrix affine permutation ciphers. The authors show the advantages of the cryptographic models, such as adaptability to various formats, multi-functionality, ease of implementation on matrix parallel structures, interchangeability of iterative procedures and matrix exponentiation modulo, ease of selection, and control of cryptographic transformation parameters. The simulation results of the proposed algorithms and procedures for the direct and inverse transformation of images with the aim of masking them during transmission are demonstrated and discussed in this chapter. The authors evaluate the effectiveness and implementation reliability of matrix-algebraic models of cryptographic image transformations.
Powering Healthcare IoT Sensors-Based Triboelectric Nanogenerator
Authors: Khan Saeed Ahmed , Lakho Shamsuddin , Ali Ahmed , Rahimoon Abdul Qadir , Memon Izhar Hussain , Abro Ahsanullah
Published: December 2019

Most of the emerging electronic devices are wearable in nature. However, the frequent changing or charging the battery of all wearable devices is the big challenge. Interestingly, with those wearable devices that are directly associated with the human body, the body can be used in transferring or generating energy in a number of techniques. One technique is triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG). This chapter covers different applications where the human body is used as a triboelectric layer and as a sensor. Wearable TENG has been discussed in detail based on four basic modes that could be used to monitor the human health. In all the discussions, the main focus is to power the wearable healthcare internet of things (IoT) sensor through human body motion based on self-powered TENG. The IoT sensors-based wearable devices related to human body can be used to develop smart body temperature sensors, pressure sensors, smart textiles, and fitness tracking sensors.
Crop Health Monitoring Using IoT-Enabled Precision Agriculture
Authors: Shafi Uferah , Mumtaz Rafia , Hassan Syed Ali , Zaidi Syed Ali Raza , Akhtar Awais , Malik Muhammad Moeez
Published: December 2019

Agriculture holds paramount significance in Pakistan due to its high impact on gross domestic product (GDP). However, there is huge gap between actual production and estimated production in agriculture due to manual farming system, which is time-consuming, inefficient, and labor-intensive. As of today, ultra-modern technology such as Internet of Things (IoT) can assist in acquiring timely and accurate crop information essential for the success of precision agriculture technology. Towards such ends, the authors propose an IoT-based crop health monitoring system comprised of different sensors used in agricultural fields. Additionally, low altitude remote sensing platforms, such as drones, are used to capture the spectral imagery of the entire crop field of the study region. The development of such a system can be instrumental for crop status monitoring and localizing the areas under stress to maximize the agricultural output by leveraging the IoT technology.
Antennas for IoT Application
Authors: Muneer Badar , Shaikh Faisal Karim , Zhu Qi
Published: December 2019

Under the umbrella of 5G there are many technology projects (e.g., internet of things, in-vehicle communication, smart cities, e-health systems, etc.). To understand the concept of IoT, the authors first understand the revolution of technological networks and later discuss what IoT is, the importance of antennas, and future vision.
From Start to Finish
Authors: Hurlbut Amanda R. , McMahan Sarah , Myers Aimee , Dunlap Karen , Fredrickson Rebecca
Published: December 2019

The U.S. Department of Education recently reported that single educational technology courses are not sufficient experiences to properly prepare preservice teachers for future technology-rich K-12 classrooms. Rather, continuous exposure to instructional technology is most effective in improving attitudes and beliefs toward technology and sustaining deep pedagogical practice. It is essential that all attempts to create digitally literate teachers should originate from within a cohesive program design rather than through single “drive-by” courses that integrate technology. The purpose of this chapter is to describe a programmatic approach used to design a comprehensive digital literacy experience for pre-service teachers (PSTs) using the U.S. DOE's recommendations. The chapter will discuss various examples, including specific course assignments the EPP uses to guide PSTs as they learn to become competent digitally literate educators. Examples of implementation, copies of PST work, and reflective discussions continued challenges to sustain the design are included.
How Paper and Digital Children's Books Support Student Understanding
Authors: Liu Laura B. , Pride Kayla , Ewing Payten , Benedict Maycie
Published: December 2019

This study builds on previous research regarding digital texts and learner engagement to provide insights on the impact of digital and paper texts on first-grade student learning. Three formats of the same STEM children's book included (1) a paper version read by the teacher; (2) a digital version read as a class and facilitated by the teacher; and (3) a digital version read independently by individual students, without the teacher. Mixed methods analysis involved a pre- and post-reading worksheet assessing student comprehension and concept retention, followed by teacher interviews. Quantitative and qualitative findings demonstrated the value of paper texts read with teacher guidance to highlight key concepts and sustain student focus. Teacher interviews also noted the value of digital texts to engage student interest, suggesting there is a pedagogical place for paper and digital texts in the classroom. Findings highlight the complexity of learner engagement and need for thoughtful pedagogies.
Modeling and Prediction of Zone of Critical Concern
Authors: Bhattacharyya Jishnu , Krishna Ben , Narmetta Mukesh , Roy Olea , Kundu Soumyadeep
Published: December 2019

The on-campus residence and activities of students, faculty members, visitors, and university staff result in the generation of university campus solid waste (UCSW). An accurate forecast of UCSW generation is crucial for proper on-campus waste management. This chapter, therefore, aims at identifying significant variables that affect the excess production of waste at a higher education institute in Kozhikode in the Indian state of Kerala. The study is expected to improve the waste management program therein. A literature review methodology, along with a series of interviews, has been used to frame and execute a questionnaire-based study where waste management staff provides the required responses. The modeling technique used is a Probit regression. The influential variables that affect the excess generation of waste are average education level, the status of employment, the urban background of most residents, consumption of water and electricity, space understudy, and management control. All the results in this research can be utilized as a part of waste management programs and in improving capacities to manage waste. This will also help in understanding the type of areas that are zones of critical concern in terms of waste management. The observations incorporated in the study is in the Indian context and are unique among the existing literature.
Utilization of Agro Waste
Authors: Budhwar Savita , Chakraborty Manali
Published: December 2019

Agro-wastes are one of the major sources for nutritional and therapeutic purposes along with other beneficial properties according to some ongoing studies. Yet they are not being utilized properly; instead, these wastes are being discarded in open air, causing pollution. Conservation of such natural resources is a healthy approach, and it's economic and eco-friendly. too. Novel formulated food products from these agro-wastes can be utilized as an unconventional source of nutrients and a therapeutic weapon for diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, etc. along with normal human consumption. Utilization of such agro-wastes as food products will also be useful to combat malnourished state leading to rural development and maintenance of food security in cheap prices for a healthy seeks. It also shows a possible role as antibiotics, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, adsorbents, enzyme extracting sources, insulators, and food additives along with its contribution in solid state fermentation, beneficial in dairy industries.
Antimicrobial activity of selected spices against Pectobacterium carotovorum isolated from some vegetables in Sri Lanka
Authors: Wasana W. P. , Kuruppuarachchi K. A. P. P. , Yapa P. N. , Hettiarachi S.
Published: December 2019

Pectobacterium carotovorum is the most common causative organism of bacterial soft rot which gives rise to great economic losses. It is important to implement disease control measures and management strategies on this bacterium in order to prevent further crop loss. Among the various management strategies, using the antibacterial nature of spices offer promising solutions to pesticidal hazards and also to increasing cost of plant protection operations. Although there are many reports on the antibacterial nature of spices on various pathogens, its effect on P. carotovorum is limited. Objectives of this study were to determine the antimicrobial activity of selected spices and then to ascertain the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of those spices against P. carotovorum. Among the nine tested spices, four were active against P. caratovorum. As depicted by agar well diffusion assay, the highest inhibitory effect on P. carotovorum was shown by the aqueous and ethanol extracts of Allium sativum while the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Cinnamomum verum gave the smallest zones of inhibition. Garcinia cowa and Tamarindus indica displayed moderate antibacterial activity. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in inhibition zones between aqueous and ethanol extract of a particular spice. MIC of the spices, which inhibited the growth of P. carotovorum was 0.5 g/ml within the test range. Positive extracts can be used as a cost effective and eco-friendly preventive strategy to minimize the effects of P. carotovorum. Evaluation of the antibacterial activity of these extracts under field conditions is necessary before a cost-effective formulation is developed.
Effect of an Italian propolis on the growth of Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus in milk and whey cheese
Authors: Pedonese Francesca , Verani Giada , Torracca Beatrice , Turchi Barbara , Felicioli Antonio , Nuvoloni Roberta
Published: December 2019

Propolis antimicrobial activity has been limitedly studied in food, particularly in dairy products. We studied the antimicrobial activity of an alcoholic extract of an Italian propolis in sterile skim milk, pasteurized cow’s milk, and cow’s and goat’s whey cheese (ricotta). Following the determination of the minimal inhibitory concentration on Gram+ and Gram- bacteria, the extract was employed at 2 and 5% (P2, P5), using controls with the same ethanol concentrations (E2, E5) and without any addition. In milk trials, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Pseudomonas fluorescens were tested. P2 and P5 samples registered significant decreases of Gram+ bacteria in skim milk. The same was true for P5 in cows’ milk, but only with S. aureus for P2. Ricotta was inoculated with L. monocytogenes, S. aureus and B. cereus and stored at 8.5°C. In cow’s milk ricotta, L. monocytogenes counts in P5 were always lower than control during the storage time, significantly so from the 14th day. In goat’s ricotta, L. monocytogenes counts in P5 were at least one logarithm lower than E5, whereas the extract didn’t show a significant effect on S. aureus and B. cereus. The antimicrobial activity of propolis, particularly on L. monocytogenes, could be employed in ready-to-eat refrigerated dairy products.
Staphylococcus aureus 2064 growth as affected by temperature and reduced water activity
Authors: Medveďová Alžbeta , Havlíková Adriana , Lehotová Veronika , Valík Ľubomír
Published: December 2019

Based on 247 growth data, the growth of S. aureus 2064 in dependence on temperatures (8-50°C) and aw values (0.999-0.83) was described. Optimal values of aw at all studied temperatures were determined by using Gibson model. Its compatibility was confirmed by several statistical indices, e.g. root mean square errors (RMSE 0.003-0.138), standard errors of prediction (%SEP 0.6-17.5). Cardinal values for S. aureus growth (Tmin=7.7°C, Topt=40.6°C, Tmax=46.7°C, awmin=0.808, awopt=0.994, μopt=1.97 1/h) were determined by using CM model with indices RMSE=0.071, SEP=17.5%. Our findings can provide relevant growth information that can be used in S. aureus exposure assessment or in validation of other data regarding the growth of this opportunistic pathogen in foods.
Application of shotgun metagenomics to smoked salmon experimentally spiked: Comparison between sequencing and microbiological data using different bioinformatic approaches
Authors: De Cesare Alessandra , Oliveri Chiara , Lucchi Alex , Pasquali Frederique , Manfreda Gerardo
Published: December 2019

The aims of this study were i) to evaluate the possibility to detect and possibly quantify microorganisms belonging to different domains experimentally spiked in smoked salmon at known concentrations using shotgun metagenomics; ii) to compare the sequencing results using four bioinformatic tools. The salmon was spiked with six species of bacteria, including potential foodborne pathogens, as well as Cryptosporidium parvum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Bovine alphaherpesvirus 1. After spiking, the salmon was kept refrigerated before DNA extraction, library preparation and sequencing at 7 Gbp in paired ends at 150 bp. The bioinformatic tools named MG-RAST, OneCodex, CosmosID and MgMapper were used for the sequence analysis and the data provided were compared using STAMP. All bacteria spiked in the salmon were identified using all bioinformatic tools. Such tools were also able to assign the higher abundances to the species Propionibacterium freudenreichii spiked at the highest concentration in comparison to the other bacteria. Nevertheless, different abundances were quantified for bacteria spiked in the salmon at the same cell concentration. Cryptosporidium parvum was detected by all bioinformatics tools, while Saccharomyces cerevisiae by MG-RAST only. Finally, the DNA virus was detected by CosmosID and OneCodex only. Overall, the results of this study showed that shotgun metagenomics can be applied to detect microorganisms belonging to different domains in the same food sample. Nevertheless, a direct correlation between cell concentration of each spiked microorganism and number of corresponding reads cannot be established yet.
Advance Care Directives: Citizens, Patients, Doctors, Institutions
Authors: Delbon Paola , Cacace Simona , Conti Adelaide
Published: December 2019

Italian Law no. 219/2017 established the advance care directives (“Disposizioni anticipate di trattamento” – DAT), a legal document specifying the person's wishes in relation to health, drawn up in case of the possible future incapacity to make informed decisions. DAT are an important instrument of empowerment for a person who is not necessarily a “patient” and enable the dialogue between healthcare providers and patient to continue when the latter is no longer able to take part consciously. DAT can only be implemented by guaranteeing the fundamental rights of the person, i.e. by ensuring the “non-complicated” use of this instrument and easy access to the DAT whenever it may be necessary. Furthermore, on the one hand, the requirement of adequate prior medical information has to contend with the fact that the wishes expressed in the document may have been formed outside of the therapeutic relationship; on the other hand, institutions must ensure that DAT are collected and recorded in such a way as to ensure their availability whenever and wherever necessary.
Immunocytochemical expression of Ki-67/p16 in normal, atypical, and neoplastic cells in urine cytology using BD SurePath™ as preparation method
Authors: Østbye Kirsten Margrethe , Pedersen Mette Kristin , Sauer Torill
Published: December 2019

Objective:

The objective of this study was to investigate the expression of Ki-67/p16 in urothelial cells in cytological material.

Materials and Methods:

There were 142 urines including normal controls, anonymous rest urine, controls after treatment for urothelial carcinoma (UC) and newly diagnosed UC. Immunocytochemistry for ki-67/p16 dual staining kit was performed on all specimens.

Results:

Eight high-grade UC and six anonymous specimens showed dual positivity. None of the low-grade UC or the control specimens after treated UC showed dual staining. Fifteen of 84 (17.8%) symptomatic cases were negative for both markers, and 59/84 (70.2%) showed positivity for both but not dual staining. Twenty-seven of 84 cases were positive for either Ki-67 (n= 22) or p16 (n= 5). Normal controls and benign specimens were negative for p16.

Conclusions:

Co-expression of p16/Ki-67 in the same cells was found in 16.6% of the cases. All were high grade, and co-expression seems to have limited practical impact as an additional marker in urine cytology. Any positivity for p16 alone strongly indicates malignancy. Negative p16 accompanied by a positive Ki-67 rate at 5% or more could be considered as an additional marker for further clinical follow-up. Both markers, co-expressed and separate, can give additional information in follow-up patients after treatment for UC.
Vitamin D, C-reactive protein, and oxidative stress markers in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Pandey Sarika , Garg Rajiv , Kant Surya , Gaur Priyanka
Published: December 2019

Objective:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Systemic inflammation and oxidant/antioxidant imbalance has been seen to play a key role in pathogenesis of COPD. The present study investigated the levels of inflammatory and antioxidant/oxidative stress biomarker in COPD patients and healthy subjects.

Materials and Methods:

The present study enrolled seventy COPD patients and seventy healthy controls from Department of Respiratory Medicine at a tertiary care hospital. Vitamin D, C-reactive protein (CRP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured in both cases and control. GraphPad PRISM version 6.01 was used for analysis of data.

Results:

The levels of Vitamin D, SOD, Catalase, were found to be significantly lower among the COPD patients in comparison to healthy controls while levels of MDA and CRP were significantly higher (P = 0.0001).

Conclusion:

The results showed oxidant/antioxidant imbalance and Vitamin D deficiency in COPD patients. Higher levels of CRP and oxidative stress markers were observed in COPD patients in comparison to healthy controls. A biomarker based study testing the efficacy of novel antioxidant or other agents will be helpful that can modify the course of this disease.
Digital platforms and the rise of global regulation of hate speech
Authors: Cavaliere Paolo
Published: December 2019

The EU Code of Conduct on hate speech requires online platforms to set standards to regulate the blocking or removal of undesirable content. The standards chosen can be analysed for four variables: the scope of protection, the form of speech, the nature of harm, and the likelihood of harm. Comparing the platforms' terms of use against existing legal standards for hate speech reveals that the scope of speech that may be removed increases significantly under the Code's mechanism. Therefore, it is legitimate to consider the platforms as substantive regulators of speech. However, the Code is only the latest example in a global trend of platforms' activities affecting both the substantive regulation of speech and its governance. Meanwhile, States' authority to set standards of acceptable speech wanes.
Autoimmune Encephalitis
Authors: Goodfellow John Aaron , Mackay Graham Andrew
Published: December 2019

Autoimmune encephalitis is emerging as an important and relatively common cause of encephalitis in the developed world. Crucially, early recognition and prompt initiation of a range of immunotherapies is likely to improve the outcomes of patients with autoimmune encephalitis, particularly for those with identifiable antibodies against neuronal cell surface proteins. There are a rapidly growing number of specific autoantibodies and associated syndromes, but many of these remain very rare. The majority of cases comprise anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis or anti-leucine-rich glioma-inactivated protein 1 (LGI1) encephalitis with the remaining cases a mixture of over 10 other specific antibodies or being seronegative. The core anti-NMDA encephalitis phenotype is a distinct symptom complex involving psychiatric and neurological features and anti-LGI1 encephalitis presents with cognitive changes and distinct seizure types. Diagnosis can be delayed owing to limited access to specialised laboratory testing or in cases with atypical or limited features.
Head Turning Sign
Authors: Ghadiri-Sani Mona , Larner Andrew J
Published: December 2019

The head turning sign was first described as such more than 20 years ago but only recently have empirical studies of the sign in large cohorts of patients being assessed for cognitive disorders been reported. Although precise operationalisation of the sign has differed between studies, nevertheless it appears to be frequently observed in cognitive clinic patient cohorts, more so in Alzheimer's disease than in other dementias and with an intermediate frequency in mild cognitive impairment. Head turning is an easily observed and categorised sign and may raise suspicion of the presence of a cognitive disorder. The exact neuropsychological, psychiatric and neurobiological correlates of the sign remain to be determined.
Nos becos da Episteme: Caminhos confluentes para uma contra colonização didática em meio à crise da verdade
Authors: Lima Nathan Willig , Nascimento Matheus Monteiro
Published: December 2019

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/2175-7941.2019v36n3p589
Influências de metodologias de aula nos discursos sobre aula de Física de estudantes do Ensino Médio
Authors: Da Silva Dayvid Bruno Fernandes , Bozelli Fernanda Cátia
Published: December 2019

Com o objetivo de investigar os discursos sobre aula de Física de alunos do Ensino Médio de uma escola estadual paulista, foram organizados grupos focais com alunos voluntários de primeira e de terceira séries daquela mesma escola. O registro de dados ocorreu por meio de gravações de áudio que foram transcritas para a análise guiada por noções da teoria de Análise de Discurso francesa apresentada por Orlandi. A interpretação dos dados propiciou diferentes olhares sobre os discursos a respeito das aulas de Física dos estudantes que participaram da pesquisa e sua relação com a metodologia de aula. A análise apontou discursos que suscitam sentidos de aulas de Física que se filiam a metodologias que priorizam o acúmulo e a memorização de conteúdo, equações e exercícios quantitativos. São aulas nas quais não há o estímulo ao questionamento e a Física é entendida como uma verdade irrefutável. Nessas condições, o agente principal das aulas é o professor e as subjetividades dos alunos são desprestigiadas, bem como o caráter social, histórico, político e cultural da própria Física. Por outro lado, evidenciam-se discursos de alunos que vivenciam aulas de Física nas quais os professores empregam metodologias que propiciam uma participação mais ativa dos alunos fazendo com que demonstrem maior interesse por essa disciplina.
A imaginação como recurso heurístico na construção do conhecimento científico e algumas implicações para o ensino de ciências
Authors: Garcia João Otavio
Published: December 2019

Discute-se, neste artigo, que a imaginação configura-se como um recurso heurístico ativo nos processos sociais e históricos de construção do conhecimento científico, podendo ser utilizada, por exemplo, no desenvolvimento de experimentos mentais. Tais experimentos servem como ferramentas que contribuem para o desenvolvimento científico, principalmente ao serem empregados, considerando-se a imaginação como recurso que guiará as possíveis alterações que uma conjectura poderá sofrer, ao longo de seu desenvolvimento. Explora-se, ainda, a importância de tratar o papel da imaginação na atividade científica no ensino de ciências, utilizando um episódio histórico específico – alcunhado de “O prato de Feynman” – de modo a considerar esta uma forma profícua de dirimir a concepção empiricista pura da atividade científica, tencionando fomentar um ensino em e sobre ciência.
O Observatório Nacional do Rio de Janeiro e a estação magnética de Tatuoca no estado do Pará (1933-1972): Um relato sobre a implantação de uma estação magnética internacional no estado do Pará
Authors: Alencar Renan De Melo , Carvalho Kassio Lisboa de
Published: December 2019

Por séculos o campo magnético da terra vem sendo estudado, e a partir da percepção de sua grande influência no planeta e em seus habitantes, fez-se necessário um aprofundamento nas pesquisas. A partir daí começou a serem implantados os primeiros observatórios magnéticos. Este trabalho objetiva fazer uma análise sobre a estação magnética de Tatuoca e seu funcionamento. Para isso, construímos um acervo de informações e análises sobre o Observatório Nacional e sobre as estações e observatórios magnéticos. O Observatório Nacional é a instituição responsável pelos observatórios e estações magnéticas no Brasil desde o século XIX. A construção desse trabalho se deu através de uma metodologia de análise documental, e discussões acerca dos acontecimentos que fizeram parte do desenvolvimento do estudo do campo magnético da terra. Estes documentos citados são verdadeiras relíquias que vem desde a discussão sobre a necessidade de construir uma estação magnética na região mais ao norte de Brasil até um período mais recente, onde é descrito o funcionamento do observatório.
Effect of a training macrocycle on physiological indicators, body composition and explosiveness of recreational runners
Authors: Alves da Silva Karina , Lopes Juliana Astolpho , Guimarães de Souza Edirley , Reeberg Stanganelli Luiz Cláudio
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The objective was to verify the effects of equal training applied during a training macrocycle on the physiological indicators, body composition measures, and explosiveness of recreational runners.

Methods

The sample consisted of 12 recreational runners, 7 men and 5 women (aged 42.3 ± 5.4 and 39.2 ± 6.5 years, respectively). The macrocycle was 12 weeks long. In pre- and post-training period, the subjects were submitted to anthropometric
measurements and tests to determine the maximal oxygen consumption, velocity associated with maximal oxygen consumption, running economy, and strength of the lower limbs.

Results

Significant adaptations were verified between the indicators of countermovement jump (p < 0.036) and maximal oxygen consumption (p < 0.003). Moderate correlations were observed between weight and countermovement jump (ρ = –0.664), weight and drop jump (ρ = –0.657), body fat percentage and drop jump (ρ = –0.636). Trivial effect sizes were reported for all variables.

Conclusions

The results evidenced that the loads applied were sufficient only to generate significant adaptations in the muscle strength and aerobic power of the subjects.
Immediate effect of kinesio tape on gait symmetry in patients with stroke: a preliminary study
Authors: Horasart Anecha , Klomjai Wanalee , Bovonsunthonchai Sunee
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Asymmetrical gait pattern usually occurs in patients with stroke. It contributes to excessive energy expenditure during movement and leads to injury and risk of fall. More symmetry, therefore, is set as a goal of gait restoration. The aim of the study was to explore the immediate effect of Kinesio Tape (KT) on gait symmetry and to investigate the correlation
of motor function and gait symmetry.

Methods

Ten patients with stroke and foot drop were objectively examined for temporo-spatial and kinematic variables with a 3D motion analysis system. Assessments were performed before and immediately after taping. KT was applied with the inhibition technique for the ankle plantar flexor muscle and with the functional correction technique for the ankle
dorsiflexion and eversion. Symmetry indices (SI) of the temporo-spatial and kinematic variables were calculated to present gait symmetry between the affected and unaffected sides. Correlations between motor function established with the Fugl-Meyer assessment for lower extremity (FMA-LE) with SI of the temporo-spatial and kinematic variables before and after taping were investigated.

Results

Improvements of step length and step time symmetry were found after taping. In addition, more symmetry of the single support time, hip extension, knee flexion, and ankle plantar flexion angles was observed, but the difference was not significant. A significant correlation of FMA-LE was reported with SI of step length but not of the other variables.

Conclusions

KT positively affected gait symmetry in patients with stroke suffering from foot drop.
Effect of stretching exercises vs. Kinesio Taping on postoperative neck discomfort following total thyroidectomy in postmenopausal women
Authors: Nagib Samah Hosney , Karkousha Rania Nagy , Nahas Engy Mohamed El
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Thyroidectomy is a surgical operation where head and neck extension position is prescribed in the surgical procedure, which may lead to postoperative neck pain and neck range of movement limitation. The study aimed to determine the effect of neck stretching exercises vs. neck Kinesio Taping on neck discomfort following total thyroidectomy.

Methods

A quasi experimental design was applied in the pre-test post-test study. Overall, 30 female patients after total thyroidectomy were included and randomly assigned into 2 equal groups. Group A received neck stretching exercises while group B received Kinesio Tape for posterior neck muscles; both groups were treated for 1 month after surgery. A universal goniometer was used to assess neck range of motion. The Neck Pain and Disability Scale questionnaire served to evaluate pain and disability.

Results

There were statistically significant differences in both groups for pre- and post-treatment pain and neck range of motion. For neck range of motion, a statistically significant post-treatment difference was observed between the 2 groups in favour of group A, while for Neck Pain and Disability Scale scores, there was no statistically significant post-treatment difference between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

Both active neck stretching exercises and Kinesio Taping had a significant effect on pain and range of motion in neck discomfort following total thyroidectomy in postmenopausal women 1 month after treatment, while active neck stretching was more effective on neck range of motion than Kinesio Taping.
Polymorphisms of the kappa casein (CSN3) gene and inference of its variants in water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Fan Xinyang , Zhang Zifang , Qiu Lihua , Zhang Yongyun , Miao Yongwang
Published: December 2019

Abstract. Kappa casein plays a crucial role in the formation of stable casein micelles
and has a key influence on milk-clotting properties. However, current
understanding of buffalo CSN3 gene polymorphisms is not sufficient. In this
study, the polymorphisms in the complete coding sequence (CDS) of the buffalo CSN3
were detected using PCR product direct sequencing. The CDS of CSN3 for river and
swamp buffalo was the same in length, which contained an open reading frame
of 573 nucleotides encoding a peptide containing 190 amino acid residues. A
total of eight single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was identified in two
types of buffalo. Among them, c.86C>T, c.252G>C,
c.445G>A, c.467C>T and c.516A>C were
non-synonymous, which leads to p.Pro8Leu, p.Lys63Asn, p.Val128Ile,
p.Thr135Ile and p.Glu151Asp substitutions in buffalo kappa casein (κ-CN),
respectively. The substitution of p.Thr135Ile may exert a vital effect on the
function of buffalo κ-CN. Eleven haplotypes were defined based on
the SNPs found in buffalo, and accordingly, seven protein variants and four synonymous variants of buffalo κ-CN were inferred, called variants A,
B, B1, C, C1, C2, D, E, F, F1 and G. The
variants observed in water buffalo did not exist in the Bos genus. In addition, 14 amino acid differential sites of κ-CN between buffalo and the Bos genus
were identified, of which 3 were located at glycosylation sites (80S, 96T,
141S) and 4 at phosphorylation sites (19S, 80S, 96T, 141S). It is speculated
that they may lead to differences in the physicochemical properties of
κ-CN between buffalo and the Bos genus. This study will lay a foundation
for exploring the association between the variation in the CSN3 gene and the
lactation traits of buffalo.
Volatile organic compounds and ozone air pollution in an oil production region in northern China
Authors: Chen Tianshu , Xue Likun , Zheng Penggang , Zhang Yingnan , Liu Yuhong , Sun Jingjing , Han Guangxuan , Li Hongyong , Zhang Xin , Li Yunfeng , Li Hong , Dong Can , Xu Fei , Zhang Qingzhu , Wang Wenxing
Published: December 2019

Abstract. Oil and natural gas (O&NG) exploration presents a significant source of atmospheric volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are central players of tropospheric chemistry and contribute to formations of ozone (O3) and secondary organic aerosols. The impacts of O&NG extraction on regional air quality have been investigated in recent years in North America, but have long been overlooked in China. To assess the impacts of O&NG exploration on tropospheric O3 and regional air quality in China, intensive field observations were conducted during February–March and June–July 2017 in the Yellow River Delta, an oil extraction region in northern China. Very high concentrations of ambient VOCs were observed at a rural site, with the highest alkane mixing ratios reaching 2498 ppbv. High O3 episodes were not encountered during wintertime but were frequently observed in summer. The emission profiles of VOCs from the oil fields were directly measured for the first time in China. The chemical budgets of ROx radicals and O3 were dissected with a detailed chemical box model constrained by in-situ observations. The highly abundant VOCs facilitated strong atmospheric oxidizing capacity and O3 formation in the region. Oxygenated VOCs (OVOCs) played an essential role in the ROx production, OH loss, and radical recycling. Photolysis of OVOCs, O3 and HONO, as well as ozonolysis reactions of unsaturated VOCs were major primary sources of ROx. NOx was the limiting factor of radical recycling and O3 formation. This study underlines the important impacts of O&NG extraction on atmospheric chemistry and regional air quality in China.
A first chronology for the East GReenland Ice-core Project (EGRIP) over the Holocene and last glacial termination
Authors: Mojtabavi Seyedhamidreza , Wilhelms Frank , Cook Eliza , Davies Siwan , Sinnl Giulia , Skov Jensen Mathias , Dahl-Jensen Dorthe , Svensson Anders , Vinther Bo , Kipfstuhl Sepp , Jones Gwydion , Karlsson Nanna B. , Faria Sergio Henrique , Gkinis Vasileios , Kjær Helle , Erhardt Tobias , Berben Sarah M. P. , Nisancioglu Kerim H. , Koldtoft Iben , Rasmussen Sune Olander
Published: December 2019

Abstract. This paper provides the first chronology for the deep ice core from the East GReenland Ice-core Project (EGRIP) over the Holocene and late last glacial period. We rely mainly on volcanic events and common patterns of peaks in dielectric profiling (DEP), electrical conductivity measurements (ECM) and tephra records for the synchronization between the EGRIP, NEEM and NGRIP ice cores in Greenland. We transfer the annual-layer-counted Greenland Ice Core Chronology 2005 (GICC05) timescale from the NGRIP core to the EGRIP ice core by means of 373 match points. The NEEM ice core is only used for supporting match-point identification. We name our EGRIP time scale GICC05-EGRIP-1. Over the uppermost 1383.84 m, we establish a depth–age relationship dating back to 14,965 a b2k (years before the year 2000 CE). Tephra horizons provide an independent validation of our match points. In addition, we compare the ratio of annual layer thicknesses between ice cores in-between the match points to assess our results in view of the different ice-flow patterns and accumulation regimes of the different periods and geographical regions. This initial timescale is the basis of interpretation and refinement of the presently derived EGRIP high-resolution data sets of chemical impurities.