bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lactobacillus strains isolated from oysters improve the production of Crassostrea gigas larvae
Authors: Savin-Amador Macario , Rojas-Contreras Maurilia , Arce-Amézquita Pablo Misael , Rangel-Dávalos Carlos , Vázquez-Juárez Ricardo
Published: September 2021

One of the main problems in laboratories of oyster seed production occurs in the stage of settlement or fixation and metamorphosis of the larvae. The organisms develop drastic morphological and physiological changes at this stage, exposing them to attack by pathogenic microorganisms. Numerous studies indicate that before larval settlement to a substrate, they require bacteria to stimulate and induce the process. In this study, Japanese oyster (Crassostrea gigas) larvae were fed with combinations of microalgae and bacteria previously selected for their probiotic potential; their impact on survival, growth, and settlement was evaluated. Larvae D of 12 days old were provided by a private company and transported to the laboratory under controlled conditions. Probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus plantarum 69Cr, L. fermentum 101Cc, and L. casei 43Cg were reactivated on MRS and applied at a concentration of 1×104 CFU mL-1. Microalgae Isochrysis galbana and Chaetoceros calcitrans were grown in F2 medium and supplied at a concentration of 3×104 cells mL-1. Results showed, in all treatments, a survival range of 39-53%, growth of 300-310 μm, and 34-56.5% settlement. However, the best bacteria combined with I. galbana and C. calcitrans was L. plantarum 69Cr with a 54% survival, 310 μm growth, and 56.5% settlement. It is concluded that the combination of L. plantarum 69Cr with I. galbana and C. calcitrans has the potential to be used in the production of Japanese oyster larvae.
Brachial Plexus Injury Surgical Service in Time of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic Experience from a Single Tertiary Orthopaedic Hospital in Indonesia
Authors: Hadinoto Seti Aji , Sumarwoto Tito , Trapsilantya Mohammad Erstda
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND: Brachial plexus injury (BPI) is one of the most devastating nerve injuries to the extremities. BPI in adults is an increasingly common clinical problem due to road traffic accident. Injury patterns, the timing of surgery, priority on the recovery of function, and patient’s understanding about the expectations of the prognosis are things that are important to consider before deciding on surgical management. The coronavirus pandemic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has significantly affected all sectors, one of which is a surgical practice both in terms of medical personnel and equipment, also patient perceptions of hospital services.

AIM: This study will analyze epidemiological data on BPI patients who underwent surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A retrospective descriptive study of BPI profile in Prof. Soeharso Orthopedic Hospital before (2019) and during (2020) the COVID-19 pandemic. Demographic data, the total number of surgery, type of surgical procedure, and patient origin were collected. We compared to the same period in 2019 before pandemic started.

RESULTS: In the data obtained from patients treated or undergoing BPI surgery before pandemic (March 1, 2019 to December 31, 2019) and during the pandemic (March 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020), Indonesia first confirms case was on March 2, 2020, until today. There were 51 and 43 cases, respectively. Panplexal type before the pandemic there were 27 patients (52%), and during the pandemic were 20 patients (46%), the upper type before: during the pandemic was 24 (48%): 23 (54%), and lower type 0 cases. Primary reconstruction before: during the pandemic was 26 (55%): 27 (62%) case, and secondary reconstruction before: during the pandemic was 25 (49%): 16 (38%) case, respectively.

CONCLUSION: COVID-19 pandemic has no significant effect in the term of the number of BPI surgery performed. Better outcome in BPI surgery is influenced by the timing of the operation, therefore primary reconstruction remains the main choice for BPI patients with safety concern or health protocols. Pre-operative screening applied in our hospital includes laboratory examination, chest radiograph, and polymerase chain reaction swab test. Surgical personnel using personal protective equipment such as protective suit, face shield, google, shoes and medical mask during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients with significant axon loss and limited clinical recovery are considered “urgent”, as surgery should be performed within 6 months or sooner (depending upon the distance to recipient’s muscle) to avoid irreversible muscle atrophy and degradation of motor endplates.
Bifidobacteria and Escherichia coli Microbiota of Healthy Indonesian Infants in Andalas Village: Profile of Infant Diet Given Exclusive Breastfed and Formula-fed
Authors: Fitri Imelda , Darwin Eryati , Chundrayetti Eva , Hotmauli Hotmauli , Mursyida Eliya , Lasmini Titi , Hasbi Nurmi
Published: September 2021

INTRODUCTION : Inbalance of microbiota in gastrointestinal tract have the risk of getting gastrointestinal infections, one of them is diarrhea.
AIM : The aim of this study was to determine bifidobacterium and eschericia coli microbiota and compare the microbiota obtained between exclusive breast fed and formula fed Indonesian infants village andalas.
METHODS : This study was an observational study with cross sectional comparative design. Samples faeses of infant was taken by Multistage Simple Random Sampling with total sample of 28 infants in range 0-6 months. This study was conducted in Pauh community health center areas, Village Andalas . The infant’s feces was taken then send to Microbiology Laboratorium of Dr. M. Djamil Hospital Padang city, Indonesia. The instruments used were a questionnaire and a colony counter. Data were processed and analyzed by using independent t test and Mann Whitney test.
RESULTS : The fecal microbiota of the 0-6 months Indonesian infants village andalas two species including bifidobacterium and eschericia coli were common commensal intestinal microbiota in all infants. The predominant intestinal microbiota in the breast fed infants bifidobacterium average 3,59 x 109 CFU/g (p < 0,05). the mean eschericia coli microbiota from the formula fed infants 66,8 x 109 CFU/g (p < 0,05)
CONCLUSION : Exclusive breastfeeding infant’s faeses contain more bifidobacteria and formula breastfed infant’s faeces contain more escherichia coli bacteria. These findings advance our understanding of the gut microbiota in healthy infants. They also provide new evidence infant diet as determinants of this essential microbial community in early life
The First Record of Zoonotic Genes of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis among Human, Dogs, and Sandflies by Nested Polymerase Chain Reaction and Phylogenetic Analyses
Authors: Alsaad Rasha , Hameed May
Published: September 2021

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is one of the zoonotic diseases that is caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania. The study aimed to diagnosed CL in human, dogs, and sandflies by PCR, and identification the zoonotic gene of CL by the nested PCR technique. A total of 100 patients with CL, 237 of owned-dogs, and 147 females sandflies collected. (88%) of humans samples, (95.77% skin biopsies and 20.69% of blood samples) of dogs, and (40.58%) of sandflies tissues were positive for L. major, while L. tropica infection was positive in (12%) of humans, in (4.23% symptomatic, and 6.89% asymptomatic) of dogs, and in (27.54%) of sandflies samples. The sequence ID of the local L. major in human were registered in NCBI as (MW421598.1, MW421599.1, MW421600.1), in dogs (MW421601.1, MW421602.1, MW421603.1), and sandflies (MW421604.1, MW421605.1, MW421606.1). While L. tropica in human were registered in NCBI as (MW421604.1, MW421605.1, MW421606.1), in dogs (MW421428.1, MW421429.1), and in sandflies (MW421430.1, MW421431.1). To our knowledge, this is the first study that contributes to the diagnosis of CL spp. in three different hosts (human, dogs, and sandflies) at the same time, particularly in Iraq and in Middle East countries.
The Active Surveillance of Staphylococcus aureus using Polymerase Chain Reaction-based Identification Method among Hospitalized-patient of Haji Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
Authors: Amelia Sri , Wahyuni Dian D. , Yunita Rina , Rozi Muhammad F.
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND: Active surveillance of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) carriers is associated with the lower incidence of bacteremia and lower mortality rates throughout literature; yet, this important step still remains problematic for developing countries, particularly Indonesia.

AIM: The study aimed to demonstrate MRSA colonization rate in Haji Adam Malik Hospital, Medan, Indonesia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study enrolled 200 mucocutaneous isolates obtained from hospitalized patients during a 1-year period of study (2018). VITEK-2 system in addition to standard bacterial identification, such as gram staining, latex agglutination test, and hemolysis pattern, was performed to select S. aureus colonies in two different laboratories, Microbiology laboratory of Haji Adam Malik General Hospital and Multidisciplinary Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara, for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) examination.

RESULTS: Based on the VITEK-2 system preliminary identification, there were 80 S. aureus colonies which then underwent PCR examination. Through standard PCR assay, there were 32 bacterial isolates contained the mecA gene and it can be determined MRSA colonization rate of the hospital was 16% with consistent results of standard bacterial identification.

CONCLUSIONS: Active surveillance of MRSA carriers is mandatory and urged it as a regular program in a hospital setting to decrease MRSA transmission rate.
Biomarkers of iron status in allopurinol-treated renal stone patients
Authors: Zainal Adnan A. , Faisal Ibrahim M. , Ahmad Abdulla A.
Published: September 2021

Limited evidence exists on the effect of xanthine oxidase inhibitors in nephrolithiasis patients on iron status markers, beyond their effects on urate. The aim of this study was to investigate whether allopurinol therapy was associated with a significant impact on parameters related to iron status, in patients with renal stones. Allopurinol treatment was associated with a nonsignificant decline in serum uric acid. There were no significant differences in serum levels of transferrin and ferritin after treatment with allopurinol compared to pre-treatment levels. A non-significant fall in serum levels of haptoglobin was registered. The drug was associated with a significant rise in serum iron levels. Serum uric acid and iron did not show a significant correlation with any parameter in the study. Allopurinol exerted an overall non-significant effect on iron metabolism in nephrolithiasis patients, save for serum iron, this entails lack of untoward effects in populations with-iron related conditions.
The impact of chirality on the analysis of alkaloids in plant
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc-Van Thi , Nguyen Kim-Ngan Huynh , Nguyen Kien Trung , Kim Kyeong Ho , Aboul-Enein Hassan Y.
Published: September 2021

Most of the alkaloids are chiral compounds and are clinically administered as the racemic mixture, even though its enantiomers have been known to exert different pharmacological activity. The determination of the enantiomeric composition of alkaloid-containing plants is subject to severe attention from pharmacological and toxicological points of view. This review gives an overview of the chiral analysis of alkaloids that were used in theoretical studies and applications for plants in recent years.
Figuration, configuration, reconfiguration. Le vivant entre métonymie et métaphore
Authors: Pitrou Perig
Published: September 2021

L’anthropologie de la vie appréhende les théories de la vie à travers deux types d’activités techniques. Les interactions avec les êtres vivants reposent sur des inférences concernant le fonctionnement des organismes tandis que des objets de la culture matérielle ou des processus techniques peuvent servir d’analogies pour se représenter des processus vitaux, comme lorsqu’on compare la digestion à une coction ou le corps à une machine. Faisant converger ces deux dynamiques, la transformation d’organismes en artefacts, constitue un autre domaine où enquêter sur les conceptions de la vie, en particulier dans des contextes rituels. L’enjeu est de comprendre l’articulation entre une logique métonymique, qui affirme la continuité matérielle entre la vitalité d’un être vivant et celle d’un objet, et une logique métaphorique qui établit des liens de similitudes entre les formes données à des biomatériaux et des êtres vivants. Par-delà l’analyse de la figuration, l’enquête gagne à explorer les procédés mis en place pour configurer et reconfigurer le vivant.
Donner la vie et la mort, ou comment les Inuit activent des objets
Authors: Laugrand Frédéric
Published: September 2021

En m’appuyant sur l’ethnographie classique et sur des propos recueillis au Nunavut (Arctique canadien) à l’occasion de plusieurs ateliers de transmission des savoirs, j’examine comment les Inuit conçoivent certains objets utilisés pour la chasse. Ces objets donnent de la vitalité ou la mort. J’avance l’idée que la dynamique relationnelle l’emporte sur la dynamique substantielle, ces deux logiques étant cependant coprésentes. Autrement dit, le pouvoir des objets de chasse découle moins des substances et des matériaux qui les composent, ou même de leur agencéité propre, que de leur mise en circulation, donc d’intentionnalités, de leur don et des échanges qui s’enchaînent. La puissance des objets inuit s’active dès qu’ils sont reçus d’un donateur et ce, au-delà du pouvoir intrinsèque des matériaux qui entrent dans leur composition. Les substances corporelles, en particulier le sang menstruel, occupent une place singulière, générant la mort. Le souffle, quant à lui, produit de la vitalité.
Les savants et les politiques dans la construction de l'Europe
Authors: Canihac Hugo
Published: September 2021

Comment les savants contribuent-ils à la production de l’action publique ? Pour répondre à cette question, cet article propose d’analyser le rôle politique des savants – universitaires, experts ou praticiens revendiquant la maîtrise d’une connaissance spécialisée – à l’aune du concept de « coproduction » , qui vise à prendre au sérieux l’imbrication du travail savant et du travail politique. À partir du cas de la construction européenne, il vise d’abord à clarifier ce concept en distinguant trois approches de la coproduction : événementielle, généalogique et archéologique. Nous soulignerons en particulier les questions, objets, processus et types d’enquêtes privilégiés dans chaque cas. Ce faisant, il ne s’agit pas tant de les opposer que de montrer comment on peut les combiner pour esquisser un modèle socio-historique de la contribution des savants à la production d’une politique publique. On entend par là inviter à un dialogue accru entre approches socio-historiques et analyses de l’action publique autour de la question du travail savant. Les différentes approches présentées seront illustrées par l’exemple de la construction de la politique de la concurrence européenne.
La bifurcation des cadres vers le coaching : une perspective foucaldienne par-delà la normativité des transitions de carrière
Authors: Moreau Fabien
Published: September 2021

L’expérience de la transition de carrière de cadres vers le coaching constitue une bifurcation. Dans une perspective foucaldienne, nous en analysons le processus de subjectivation sous-jacent sur la base de 25 récits de vie. Cette étude exploratoire montre que des effets de la carrière comme dispositif de pouvoir relèvent d’un fort investissement, des difficultés et des dissonances au travail. Ceux-ci nourrissent une saturation (voire une fatigue) et une prise de conscience. Le vécu de cette bifurcation comme crise les conduit au coaching. L’analyse de ce processus complexe justifie la perspective sociologique de la bifurcation par-delà la normativité des modèles gestionnaires de carrière. Notre théorisation émergente constitue un support réflexif indispensable aux aspirants à devenir coach ainsi qu’un outil de gestion des transitions de carrière et une aide au recrutement des coachs pour les DRH.
La parenté d’intention en droit français
Authors: Mesnil Marie
Published: September 2021

Le concept de «  parenté d’intention  » (traduction des «  intented parents  » des conventions de gestation pour autrui) s’est imposé en droit français. Il est utilisé pour désigner les projets parentaux qui ne sont pas permis en France et pour lesquels la filiation est difficile à établir, y compris ceux des couples de femmes. Dans cet article, les usages de la notion sont mis en perspective avec le droit de la filiation qui reconnaît déjà des filiations ne reposant pas sur un fondement biologique mais sur la volonté (présomption de paternité, reconnaissance), sans pour autant être qualifiées de filiation d’intention. Ainsi, à travers la parenté d’intention, un droit spécial de la filiation se profile : l’engagement prénatal permettrait, en effet, d’instituer de nouvelles formes de familles.
Artificial neural network based PERSIANN data sets in evaluation of hydrologic utility of precipitation estimations in a tropical watershed of Sri Lanka
Authors: Gunathilake Miyuru B ,   Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT), Malabe, Sri Lanka, Senerath Thamashi , Rathnayake Upaka ,   Central Engineering Services (Pvt) Limited, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7, Sri Lanka
Published: September 2021

The developments of satellite technologies and remote sensing (RS) have provided a way forward with potential for tremendous progress in estimating precipitation in many regions of the world. These products are especially useful in developing countries and regions, where ground-based rain gauge (RG) networks are either sparse or do not exist. In the present study the hydrologic utility of three satellite-based precipitation products (SbPPs) namely, Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks (PERSIANN), PERSIANN-Cloud Classification System (PERSIANN-CCS) and Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks-Dynamic Infrared Rain Rate near real-time (PDIR-NOW) were examined by using them to drive the Hydrologic Engineering Center-Hydrologic Modeling System (HEC-HMS) hydrologic model for the Seethawaka watershed, a sub-basin of the Kelani River Basin of Sri Lanka. The hydrologic utility of SbPPs was examined by comparing the outputs of this modelling exercise against observed discharge records at the Deraniyagala streamflow gauging station during two extreme rainfall events from 2016 and 2017. The observed discharges were simulated considerably better by the model when RG data was used to drive it than when these SbPPs. The results demonstrated that PERSIANN family of precipitation products are not capable of producing peak discharges and timing of peaks essential for near-real time flood-forecasting applications in the Seethawaka watershed. The difference in performance is quantified using the Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency, which was > 0.80 for the model when driven by RGs, and < 0.08 when driven by the SbPPs. Amongst the SbPPs, PERSIANN performed best. The outcomes of this study will provide useful insights and recommendations for future research expected to be carried out in the Seethawaka watershed using SbPPs. The results of this study calls for the refinement of retrieval algorithms in rainfall estimation techniques of PERSIANN family of rainfall products for the tropical region.
Identification of prognostic hypoxia-related genes signature on the tumor microenvironment in esophageal cancer
Authors: Tan Linlin ,   The Affiliated People's Hospital of Ningbo University, Cardiothoracic Surgery Department, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China, Cheng Dingzhuo , Wen Jianbo , Huang Kefeng , Zhang Qin ,   Ningbo NO6. Hospital, Neurosurgery Department, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
Published: September 2021

Background

Hypoxia is a crucial factor in the development of esophageal cancer. The relationship between hypoxia and immune status in the esophageal cancer microenvironment is becoming increasingly important in clinical practice. This study aims to clarify and investigate the possible connection between immunotherapy and hypoxia in esophageal cancer.

Methods

The Cancer Genome Atlas databases are used to find two types of esophageal cancer cases. Cox regressions analyses are used to screen genes for hypoxia-related traits. After that, the genetic signature is validated by survival analysis and the construction of ROC curves. GSEA is used to compare differences in enrichment in the two groups and is followed by the CIBERSORT tool to investigate a potentially relevant correlation between immune cells and gene signatures.

Results

We found that the esophageal adenocarcinoma hypoxia model contains 3 genes (PGK1, PGM1, SLC2A3), and the esophageal squamous cell carcinoma hypoxia model contains 2 genes (EGFR, ATF3). The findings demonstrated that the survival rate of patients in the high-risk group is lower than in the lower-risk group. Furthermore, we find that three kinds of immune cells (memory activated CD4+ T cells, activated mast cells, and M2 macrophages) have a marked infiltration in the tissues of patients in the high-risk group. Moreover, we find that PD-L1 and CD244 are highly expressed in high-risk groups.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that oxygen deprivation is correlated with prognosis and the incidence of immune cell infiltration in patients with both types of esophageal cancer, which provides an immunological perspective for the development of personalized therapy.
Récits biographiques et mémoire collective au sein d’une jeunesse libanaise
Authors: Lefort Bruno
Published: September 2021

La narrativité, parce qu’elle est à la fois action de mise en représentation et assignation de sens, constitue un des modes de construction et de représentation privilégié du lien social. Portant sur l’étude d’un groupe partisan libanais, le Courant Patriotique Libre (CPL), cette contribution mobilise le concept d’identité narrative d’abord pour décrire comment un groupe s’enracine dans une histoire spécifique conçue autour d’une mise en intrigue caractéristique. Il est ensuite établi que cette mise en intrigue s’appuie sur une mémoire collective multi-vocale, construite sur différentes échelles de temporalités réunies au sein du récit. Cette étude de la narration de l’attachement permet enfin de dégager quelques caractéristiques du lien partisan dans le Liban contemporain.
Reading Between the Lines
Authors: Cabiddu Francesca , Dessì Cinzia , Floris Michela
Published: September 2021

This chapter contributes to strategic management studies in family firms by focusing on innovation strategies as drivers to guarantee firm survival across generations. Specifically, built on the construct of family business innovation posture and based on the content analysis of 10 small and medium family firm narratives, this chapter identifies the figure of the father as the cornerstone in whom innovation strategies have their origin and their evolution as firm-driven, family-driven, and/or market-driven. The chapter proposes a model that highlights the dimensions of family heterogeneity and provides new insights into the relationship between the role of the father figure and three drivers related to family business innovation: product and production quality, past knowledge, and risk-taking propensity.
Performance Determinants in Family Business
Authors: Costa Joana
Published: September 2021

Family businesses (FBs) are central to economies: in Portugal the impact of these structures reaches 2/3 of the GDP, 1/2 of the labour force, and 4/5 of the firms in operation, most of them being SMEs. These organisations play a central role in terms of job creation, local development, knowledge transfer, and territorial cohesion. Innovative activities are key factors for competitive economies; yet innovation increases risk exposure and FBs are conservative and risk adverse, resisting change, relying on internal factors rather than opening to the external environment, consequently postponing innovation and thus pledging their future. Their embedded culture reduces innovative propensity; still, the existence loyalty trust and informal networks enhance individual or collective innovation processes. Using a dataset of 110 FBs innovation and internationalization along with other structural characteristics are connected to their economic performance, shedding light on the determinants FB economic efficiency. Given their importance, made-to-measure policy schemes should be designed.
Effect of Ownership Structure on Firm Performance Evidence From Non-Financial Listed Firms
Authors: Arslan Muhammad
Published: September 2021

In modern organizations, there is a separation between ownership and control of the firm. On the lenses of agency theory, this study statistically examines the relationship between ownership structure (i.e., ownership concentration and owner identity) and firm performance of non-financial listed firms of Pakistan by taking firm-level control variables of size, age, liquidity, financial leverage, and growth of the firm. Secondary data is collected from annual reports of 65 non-financial listed firms for the year 2008 to 2012. The least-square dummy variable model followed by the random effect model has been employed to statistically determining the impact of ownership structure on firm performance. The results of the least square dummy variable model reveal that the ownership concentration has a significant positive impact on firm performance. The owner identity (such as dispersed, family, institutional, and government ownership) has a significant causal effect on firm performance as indicated from t and p values.
Developing Capabilities for Sustainability in Family Small Enterprises
Authors: Akume Ben , Iguisi Osarumwense
Published: September 2021

Though literature in family perpetuity and sustainability is well documented from the advanced economies, there is scarcity of insights from emerging markets where this research relates. The study, therefore, sought to investigate, understand, and interpret the underlying drivers of sustainability in small family businesses using the stewardship theory paradigm in the Nigerian family business environment. A qualitative method with 41 in-depth interviews involving owners and managers of family-owned small and medium businesses was conducted. The study empirically shows that there is an interrelationship between family structure and business sustainability; hence, the practice of polygamy was found to be inimical to family business success and sustainability. Building on the stewardship theory, the paper develops a model of sustainability for small and medium family businesses. The study contributes to the theoretical literature on stewardship and family business sustainability.
The Quadruple Sustainability
Authors: Forés Beatriz , Clemente Almendros José Antonio , Fernández Yáñez José María
Published: September 2021

This chapter analyzes the relationship between ownership structure and sustainability performance adopting the socioemotional wealth approach. This work extends previous literature on the topic by considering the three dimensions of sustainability performance: economic, social, and environmental. Analysis with the matching technique revealed that being a family firm has a positive effect on economic profitability, growth sales, employees training and commitment, investment in R&D, environmental commitment, and cooperation agreements with external partners. The authors use a sample of Spanish firms operating in the tourism industry.
Leadership and Sustainability
Authors: Ince Fatma
Published: September 2021

This chapter on leadership and sustainability from the first to the second generations of SME Ownership addresses both the leadership and sustainability from the perspective of different generations in family SMEs. Because, sustainable leadership is seen as a key factor of the competitiveness in a family enterprise. Without effective and efficient human capital, the SMEs cannot gain the goals such as growth, internationalization and increasing performance. Generational differences in SMEs may improve the creativity and innovation, providing that the established appropriate management system and strategy. From this viewpoint, this chapter provides an overview of generations, leadership, sustainability and competitiveness about SMEs
Responsibility and Sustainability Choices in the Animal Feed Industry
Authors: Mari Carlo , Meglio Olimpia
Published: September 2021

The conventional discourse on corporate social responsibility (CSR) focuses on big companies and tends to neglect small, medium, and family firms. However, scholars state that simply scaling down CSR theories does not capture the variations in CSR choices across companies and contexts. The authors remedy this state of affairs by investigating an Italian family firm in the animal feed industry in light of an integrative framework that combines institutional- and company-level factors explaining the variations in CSR choices. The findings highlight how the company under investigation is committed to ensuring animal welfare by offering healthy and safe animal feed through innovation and certification. In addition, the company is well embedded in the local community and represents a point of reference for the inhabitants. Initiatives ranging from scholarships to university exchange programs to running races contribute to mobilizing human resources and to improving the company's brand awareness.
A Theoretical Approach Exploring Knowledge Transmission Across Generations in Family SMEs
Authors: Ferrari Filippo
Published: September 2021

This paper explores, by adopting a theoretical approach, if and how the knowledge sharing process between the generations involved in business succession is actually accomplished. This paper also highlights the negative consequences of overlooking knowledge sharing process. In spite of existing previous empirical findings, this paper suggests that small firm dimensions and everyday side-by-side working activities do not ensure effective knowledge sharing processes. Finally, this paper also provides insights in order to shift from the 'how' of the knowledge sharing process to the 'why' this process fails, suggesting both cognitive and cultural explanations.
Organizational Sustainability
Authors: Rahman Hakikur
Published: September 2021

An organization with its capacity to endure, add up value, and promote value chain could be seen as a sustainable organization. Sustainability could be in the form of short-, medium-, and long-term effect to an entity. Through the utilization of the information and communication technology, organizations now can adopt various business techniques to tackle or minimize risks, reduce costs, and make profit. Among many such techniques, this particular research looks into the aspects of agility within organizations that may lead to sustained business platform. This chapter tries to argue that an organization with this characteristic, in the longer run, can lead to sustainability and elevate the business intelligence. In this discourse, through a vertical literature review, this study has tried to construct a framework of sustainability with the aspect of an organization and thereby proposed a business model for ideation and future implementation.
Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Disability Categories
Authors: Fontenot Charlotte W. , Spoede John T. , Conley Tara L. , Walker Kisha
Published: September 2021

This chapter is a collection of case studies, discussion questions, and enrichment activities addressing each of the 13 disabilities covered under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), in addition to the disability categories of dyslexia and developmental delay. These case studies, questions, and enrichment activities address services that occur in a wide variety of public school settings. The purpose of this chapter is to serve as a supplemental text to courses in special education, psychology, counseling, nursing, and social work. Currently, there are scarce supplemental application resources available to instructors who are conducting teacher preparation courses and other disability-related courses.
Specific Learning Disabilities and Psychosocial Difficulties in Children
Authors: Sofologi Maria , Kougioumtzis Georgios A. , Efstratopoulou Maria , Skoura Efthalia , Sagia Savvoula , Karvela Styliani , Salli Panagiota Myrto , Makri Evangelia , Bonti Eleni
Published: September 2021

Children with specific learning disorders (SLDs) exhibit academic difficulties disproportional to their intellectual capabilities. A significant percentage of school-aged children worldwide are diagnosed with specific learning disabilities, with dyslexia being the most common. In Greece, epidemiological data propose that 50% of children in special education schools are diagnosed with learning disabilities, and 80% with reading difficulties. Children with SLD exhibit both internalized, such as depressive and anxiety disorders, self-esteem issues, eating and sleep difficulties, and externalized problems, including difficulties in socializing, developing friendships, and delinquent behavior. Moreover, research has shown that children with learning disabilities have an average (or above average) intelligence, and their poor academic performance is due to their lack of effective learning strategies. Concerning cognitive deficiencies, research suggests that no specific deficit is to fault; however, common deficits in children with SLDs are phonological processing and working memory.
Understanding Autism
Authors: Kemp Charles William
Published: September 2021

Autism is one disability that everyone has heard about. It is also the disability about which educators still know so little. This chapter will inform preservice teachers about autism using the narrative of two young men and their lives with autism. Theoretical groundings of autism, along with the myths, misperceptions, and mistakes surrounding autism are shared in the chapter. Importantly, for preservice teachers, strategies for successful teaching of students with autism will be outlined.
Is It a Disability?
Authors: Manis Ronnie
Published: September 2021

Research shows that ELL students are at a greater risk of being misdiagnosed with a learning disability. This chapter will discuss the experiences of a seasoned educator and the pitfalls of not implementing protocols with fidelity. Key terminology is introduced as well as universal methodology designed to increase engagement in English proficiency. Current research is presented as well as suggested classroom engagement prompts designed to challenge the critical thinking of preservice educators.
Creative Empathy
Authors: Clark III William C. , O'Nesti Matt , Epler Pam
Published: September 2021

This chapter is designed to inform and educate the reader about the trials and tribulations of two young men with disabilities. Their journey through the K–16 educational system is discussed, as are their triumphs and struggles as they learn to survive in a nondisabled world. The chapter relates the two men's scenarios to the theory of social justice as well as breaks down the most common myths and misconceptions about people with exceptionalities. The chapter concludes by conveying instructional strategies developed by the University of Michigan School of Education's Teaching Works and the University of Florida's CEEDAR Center and the Council for Exceptional Children that can be used by any teacher to get to know their students well and develop successful intervention strategies.
Assistive Technology to Support Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Tiwari Rishika , Shandilya Manish , Charak Sonika
Published: September 2021

Assistive technology (AT) is defined as any device or technology ranging from low to high that helps to improve functional skills of individuals with cognitive, physical, or neurological disorders. These technologies are devised to improve the functional activities of persons. ATs focussing on cognitive disorders like dementia, autism spectrum disorders, etc. can be categorized as ATs for cognition (ATC) and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). AAC interventions consist of tools that aid the challenges faced by individuals with speech impairment during communication. AACs used often are speech-generating devices (SGD), software programs, and communication apps for efficient production of speech. ATCs include social stories and video modeling strategies. The use of assistive technology in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has great importance due to increased requirement for interventions in helping students. There are several lines of evidence showing the effectiveness of technology-assisted training in ASD patients.
New Technologies to Support Adaptive Responding in Children and Adolescents With Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Authors: Stasolla Fabrizio , Ciarmoli Donatella
Published: September 2021

The chapter provides the reader with a narrative overview on the newest empirical evidence available on the use of new technologies to help individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Three main categories of studies were identified, namely (1) virtual reality, (2) mobile technologies, and (3) wearable technologies. Results were satisfactory although failures occurred. Findings were critically discussed, and different technological solutions were emphasized. Some useful insights for both future and practice were critically discussed.
Using Virtual Reality for Assessment and Rehabilitation of AD and MCI Patients
Authors: Binaghi Giulia
Published: September 2021

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a primary cause of dementia in the ageing population affecting more than 35 million people around the globe. Acquisition of information in everyday life requires memorization in complex three-dimensional environments. Emerging ICT (information and computer technology) applications based on virtual reality (VR) environments can lead to a behavior modification as they provide a photorealistic virtual environment (VE). This chapter provides a selective overview of the empirical evidence available along last five years on the use of virtual reality (VR) to promote everyday life skills and cognitive impairment mitigation of AD patients. Virtual reality allows us to identify and treat deficits in memory that are relevant to everyday life yet not detectable with list learning. Articles related to virtual reality have been divided in two categories according to their use: whether for assessment and diagnostic or rehabilitative purposes. Clinical implications were critically discussed. Suggestions for future research and practice will also be provided.
Using a Connectedness Cycle to Create a Paradigm Shift in Work and Education
Authors: Vigil Kimberly
Published: September 2021

If the global pandemic has taught us one thing, it is that humans have an innate need for connection. Many people sought connections within work communities, neighborhood groups, faith-based groups, communities of like-minded educators, or communities of post-secondary students. Often, these communities took to the internet in order to remain connected, using digital resources and virtual platforms, including social media, that allowed for interpersonal communication and feelings of connectedness. Regardless of the type of community to which members of society strived to belong, or the methods chosen in an attempt to maintain connectedness, this need for connection was, and is, inherent to all of society. The purpose of this chapter is to present the notion of the connectedness cycle, clarify its subcomponents, and provide clear and specific examples and strategies as to how connection can create a paradigm shift in both the workplace and in education environments.
Digital Skills in Times of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Montaudon- Tomas Cynthia M. , Pinto-López Ingrid N. , Amsler Anna
Published: September 2021

This chapter describes the digital competencies that have become essential in the workforce and how higher education institutions (HEIs) are trying to keep up in a moment in which faculty members have been acquiring digital skills alongside students. A field study was conducted with faculty from HEIs in Mexico to identify the differences between the digital skills that faculty possessed previous to the pandemic and those acquired as a result of remote work. It also analyzes the digital tools they have been provided with to perform their jobs, the training they have received, and the digital skills that they still lack to help students acquire the digital competencies demanded in the workforce. The objective is to identify areas of opportunity and create general guidelines that will help develop critical digital skills. A literature review of the most relevant aspects of digital dexterity and digital competence in higher education (HE) is presented. An analysis of the current context and how it is producing changes faster than before is also included.
Bringing Life to Online Meetings
Authors: Clark John W.
Published: September 2021

The future of work and learning will take place in two-dimensional, online settings, even if these virtual formats are used to augment in-person experiences. In this chapter, the author reflects on his improv theater and teaching experiences to offer practical advice on enhancing collaboration in small, synchronous online meetings, both in the classroom and workplace. Core principles include engaging selflessly, honoring the power of empty space, and bringing emotional and physical energy to each online session. The author shares lively examples from his own theatrical experience and supports the use of basic improv principles through social science, neuroscience, and workplace engagement research.
The Practice and the Pressure to Progress
Authors: Wendling Linda Ann
Published: September 2021

As one of the most traditional professions, the practice of law has been slower than most to adapt to technological advances and recognize the impact on the changing nature of work for attorneys. Only two state bar associations currently require continuing legal education in technology. New York's bar association has recommended mandatory training in cybersecurity; however, it would comprise only 1 credit within the Ethics & Professionalism Continuing Legal Education (CLE) requirements. This chapter will explore the negative “domino effect” that disregarding or underestimating the power of technology in both legal education and practice can have on access, diversity, and ultimately justice. By presenting the evidence here, perhaps the profession through its many and varied institutions and organizations can finally turn against the tide of tradition. The profession and its oversight bodies must look farther back in the pathway to practice to re-imagine legal education and embrace that which is now possible through technology and innovative teaching and learning methods.
Strategies for Effective Online Teaching and Learning
Authors: Mavo Navarro Juan Carlos , McGrath Breeda M.
Published: September 2021

This chapter provides readers with a comprehensive review of strategies for effective design in online instruction. The authors explore the traditional debate between advocates and critics of online education and discuss effectiveness in retention, engagement, and overall academic performance. The chapter differentiates between “online-first” course design and emergency remote delivery, as experienced in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Key factors include identifying engagement and communication strategies such as “ask me anything” sessions and tailored selection of resources. Open educational resources (OER), pre-recorded lectures, podcasts, and “online-first” textbooks are presented as appropriate and cost-conscious content options. Also included are alternative assessment ideas and universal design for learning (UDL) and accessibility guidelines. The chapter provides a continuum model for the transition of in-person courses to online instruction while conscious of both instructor workload/instructional support and expected level of learner workload and engagement.
Creating and Maintaining Balance
Authors: Underdown Kimber O. , McCabe Crystal L. , McCabe Michael F.
Published: September 2021

This chapter will discuss how to ensure that online educators are caring for themselves in order to avoid stress, burnout, and leaving the professions. Because many educators feel additional stressors when working online or from home, the following topics will be discussed to mitigate these stressors: life-work balance, self-care, and mindfulness. Each section will detail the research behind each strategy and will specific ways educators can implement these strategies with ease. The authors share key strategies to work-life balance, self-care, and mindfulness, as well as ways in which the reader can easily teach his or her own students these same skills to increase the likelihood that the future workforce is prepared for the stressors that will inevitably be a part of their lives.
Completing Student-Teaching Internships Online
Authors: Dos Santos Luis Miguel
Published: September 2021

Distance-based learning has become one of the common alternative learning options. Currently, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many academic programmes, including programmes with internship requirements, have switched their teaching and learning strategies from on-campus learning to online platforms. This study aims to understand the experiences and sense-making processes of student-teachers who have completed their student-teaching internships online during the COVID-19 pandemic. To understand the feedback, experiences, and sense-making processes of this group of student-teachers, it is important to collect first-hand sharing. More importantly, the trend of distance learning-based student-teaching internships will be developed during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The results of this study will serve as one of the first reports about student-teachers' experiences.
How Do International Students Study for Their University Degree Programme Using Technologically-Assisted Tools and Platforms?
Authors: Dos Santos Luis Miguel
Published: September 2021

Due to the current education trend, many students, including traditional-age, non-traditional, returning, evening, and adult students, move from traditional on-campus study to distance learning and online education. The current COVID-19 pandemic offers opportunities for these colleges and universities to expand their channel to international students who cannot come on-campus due to the recommendation of social distancing and the self-quarantine policy. However, it is important to capture the students' comments and opinions, particularly international students who are looking for the living experience in an overseas country. With the tools of qualitative inductive survey and interview sessions, the researcher collected 63 valid data from the Chinese international students. This study provided the blueprint for school leadership, department heads, policymakers, faculty members, and students who are interested in reforming the current curriculum and instruction.