bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wearable Technology as a Source of Data-Generation Tool for Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Kwabena Gyasi Emmanuel , Ramamurthy Mageshbabu , Wijethunga Akila , Swarnalatha Purushotham
Published: October 2020

The world is fascinated to see how technology evolves each passing day. All too soon, there's an emerging technology that is trending around us, and it is no other technology than smart wearable technology. Less attention is paid to the data that our bodies are radiating and communicating to us, but with the timely arrival of wearable sensors, we now have numerous devices that can be tracking and collecting the data that our bodies are radiating. Apart from numerous benefits that we derive from the functions provided by wearable technology such as monitoring of our fitness levels, etc., one other critical importance of wearable technology is helping the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). Machine learning thrives on the availability of massive data and wearable technology which forms part of the internet of things (IoT) generates megabytes of data every single day. The data generated by these wearable devices are used as a dataset for the training and learning of machine learning models. Through the analysis of the outcome of these machine learning models, scientific conclusions are made.
A Trustworthy Convolutional Neural Network-Based Malware Variant Detector in Python
Authors: Sendhilvel Lavanya K. , Sutreja Anushka , Paul Aritro , Kaur Saluja Japneet
Published: October 2020

Malware attacks are broadly disguised as useful applications. Many android apps, downloaded to perform crucial tasks or play games (take one's pick), seem to do completely different tasks, which are potentially harmful and invasive in nature. This could include sending text messages to random users, exporting the phone's contacts, etc. There exist some algorithms in place that can detect these malwares, but so far, it has been observed that many of these algorithms suffer from false negatives, which grossly reduced the effectiveness of said algorithms. The aim of this chapter is to introduce a flexible method to detect if a certain application is malware or not. The working can be loosely defined as the source of a set of applications is detected and the list of permissions is studied. The set of relevant and highly close applications is selected, and from the most relevant category, the permissions are checked for overlap to see if it can be stated as a possible anomalous application.
Hyperspectral Image Classification Through Machine Learning and Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: R. Tamilarasi , Sevugan Prabu
Published: October 2020

Dimensionality reduction for hyperspectral imagery plays a major role in different scientific and technical applications. It enables the identification of multiple urban-related features on the surface of the earth, such as building, highway (road), and other natural and man-made structures. Since manual road detection and satellite imagery extraction is time-consuming and costly, data time and cost-effective solution with limited user interaction will emerge with road and building extraction techniques. Therefore, the need to focus on a deep survey for improving ML techniques for dimensionality reduction (DR) and automated building and road extraction using hyperspectral imagery. The main purpose of this chapter is to identify the state-of-the-art and trends of hyperspectral imaging theories, methodologies, techniques, and applications for dimensional reduction. A different type of ML technique is included such as SVM, ANN, etc. These algorithms can handle high dimensionality and classification data.
A Study and Analysis of Trust Management System in Cloud Technologies
Authors: Anne Lahari , Anandakumar S. , Mahendran Anand , Ghalib Muhammad Rukunuddin , Ghosh Uttam
Published: October 2020

Cloud computing is a technology that has enabled individual users and organizations alike to implement such functionality. Currently, a large percentage of the data being generated is stored on clouds, and the number of organizations opting for cloud-based technologies is continuously on the rise. With such growing numbers accessing and utilizing cloud resources, data security has become a significant cause of concern. Traditional methods of cloud computing are becoming obsolete and ineffective with each technological breakthrough, and data is thus highly subjected to getting corrupted or hacked. This chapter provides a survey on various trust management techniques used in cloud technology to protect the data with multiple security features.
Leadership/Followership Interface and the Workplace of the Future
Authors: Abe Isaac Idowu , Abe Ethel N.
Published: October 2020

Relationships have been documented to be the hub of employee social activities in the workplace. With the disruptions of Industry 4.0, much value and attention is given to machines and technology. Concepts of leadership and followership held by organizations may no longer hold water to determine the place of man and machines as relational tools in the workplace and to highlight the promotion of values in the man-human interface in the 4IR. The centrality of this chapter will be to determine whether the leadership and followership theories are relevant to organizations in the face of 4IR. In the 4IR, practitioner's attention should be on human development to lead despite technological advancements and the development of artificial intelligence.
The Dynamics of Workplace Relationships, Employee Well-Being, and the Fourth Industrial Revolution
Authors: Abe Isaac Idowu
Published: October 2020

Employees globally are expected to flourish amidst the uncertainty, volatility, and complexities of the muddy waters of Industry 4.0. To identify changes in the perceived workplace relationships and consider initiatives that will improve interpersonal relationships at work in the 4IR. A review of literature will be conducted on the following key variables: 4IR. In the 4IR, provision of interpersonal other than digital means of communicating with employees, effectiveness in intra-organizational information sharing among employees, constant training on new and improved technological tools of working will be useful. Human resource practitioners should focus on designing strategies to improve IR at work, in order to minimize interpersonal conflicts, provide social support and improve organisational performance.
Fourth Industrial Revolution
Authors: Niaz Shafqat Ali , Hameed Waseem UI , Saleem Muneeba , Bibi Sitara , Anwer Bushra , Razzaq Shazma
Published: October 2020

The Fourth Industrial Revolution is being implemented as technological revolution in every field of life. FIR has not only impacted the employees' behavior, well-being, and future of work but also brought a disruptive innovation everywhere. This chapter is beneficial for the reason that Fourth Industrial Revolution has affected the behavior of employees tremendously. With many opportunities from the fourth industrial revolution, rapid change, and excessive use of technology has stressed the employees. Digital transformation or era of digitalization has changed the future of work by automating the work performed by the human resource manually in the past. Automation of work is decreasing the labor requirement. Pressure of being unemployed and new skills learning after new technological change made employees' toxic. Fear of being unemployed and stress of earning new technologies has decreased the well-being of employees. This Fourth Industrial Revolution also has positive impact on the work and family life satisfaction by providing them the opportunities of remote and gig working.
Application of Canonical Correlation Analysis to Gender Inequality and Economic Indicators
Authors: Dinc-Cavlak Ozge
Published: October 2020

This study aims to find significant relationships between gender inequality and some economic indicators. More specifically, the labor force participation rate of females, maternal mortality ratio, and proportion of seats held by women in national parliaments are mainly used as gender inequality indicators while employment rate and GDP constitute the economy dimension. For this purpose, instead of using a single variable, multiple variables are mainly preferred, which will lead to a better understanding of the relationship between gender inequality and economic indicators. In order to measure these multiple correlations, canonical correlation analysis is performed which analyzes the relationship between two sets of variables. The rationale of using more than one variable for gender inequality and economy is that using only one variable is not sufficient to explain these concepts, so a variable set is needed.
Flipping the Mathematics Instruction
Authors: Incikabi Lutfi , Serin Mehmet Koray , Incikabi Semahat
Published: October 2020

The flipped classroom is a rotational model in which students move between teacher-faced practices in the classroom during the standard school day and out-of-school teaching they receive online for the related concepts. In recent years, with the proliferation of technology-supported education, flipped classroom practices have been used more in mathematics classrooms, and gained the attention of mathematics education researchers. This attention also triggered the studies examining the trends of flipped classroom practices on mathematics education. This chapter introduces the theoretical underpinnings of the flipped classroom and provides a recent literature review of the studies on flipped classrooms in mathematics education from various dimensions. Accordingly, several results obtained from the analyses as well as potential issues for future research are proposed in this book chapter.
Strategies for Managing Cognitive Load and Enhancing Motivation in E-Learning
Authors: Ochukut Selina Atwani , Oboko Robert Obwocha
Published: October 2020

Cognitive load and motivation are two factors that have been established as mediators of learning. It has been established that learners who experience low cognitive loads and are highly motivated to succeed in learning. Since e-learning is becoming a very popular means of delivering learning, there needs to be established strategies to ensure that learners learn. This study sought to look at the various means that have been used in e-learning studies to manage cognitive load and enhance motivation through the analysis of literature. Use of metaphorical interfaces, hypertext, sequencing, and fading of learning content, use of transient information, and adaptation of the problem-solving support were the strategies that have been used in e-learning studies to manage cognitive load. Motivation has been enhanced through the use of motivational messages and adaptive navigational support and pedagogical agents.
Looking Back While Looking Forward
Authors: Jain Rishav
Published: October 2020

With the increasing globalisation and modernisation, the recent interior architecture practices across the globe seem unified and present a huge departure from a sense of identity and belongingness of where it is at. The built landscapes that earlier reflected a rich craft culture are slowly transforming into standardized and homogenized boxes with very little cultural meaning attached to them. This is no different for a country rich with craft traditions like India, where the contemporary interior architectural landscape seems highly disconnected to its craft culture and surrounding context. The chapter focuses on two major discourses; the first one sets up a base with discussion on the notions of craft, space making craft, and contemporary interior design practices in India; and the second one focuses on the need of integrating crafts in interior design education through case studies of a variety of academic courses offered at Faculty of Design, CEPT University, India.
“Limited Material” as an Input for Creativity in Interior Architecture
Authors: Garip S. Banu , Kızılkaya Aycan
Published: October 2020

This chapter mainly focuses on the influences of material as an input within different stages of design and production in the context of different dimensions that define the relations between user and environment. Properties of the material require discussion on different issues from the urban scale to the interior in a wide perspective such as the dialogue established by the interior and the urban space, psychological and social factors, sensation, temporality, mobility, portability, flexibility, sustainability, strength, durability, and economy. In this context, the topic is discussed through examples of the studies and experiences of the Interior Architectural Design Studio. Within the studio, sheltering alternatives for the homeless have been designed in Istanbul. The main intention is to discuss and question the possibilities of enabling the homeless to be socially integrated into the city and to provide them practical sheltering with using a single material. The limitations of the material increased the challenge while resulting in varied alternatives.
Emotional Intelligence a Critical Factor in Organizational Performance
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: October 2020

The objective of this study is to understand how employee EI is a critical factor for improved organizational performance. Adopting a qualitative approach with a case study research design, a sample of 40 employees was selected from the organization; data collection was done through a questionnaire after pilot testing. An analysis is done using SPSS, within an interpretative research paradigm using thematic analyses. Findings reflect that understanding and knowledge on EI and its influence on the performance may add value to the organization as employees become aware of the best practices and contribute better for organizational performance. Further, it was also noted that EI is a significant predictor of job and organizational performance only if it is advocated and spearheaded through individual performance classified into the task and contextual performance.
The Role and Trend of Information and Communications Technology Towards a Pervasive Healthcare System
Authors: Odeyinka Oluwadara J. , Ajibola Opeyemi A. , Ndinechi Michael C.
Published: October 2020

Technological innovations have played a significant role in the modern healthcare system. However, with increasing rate of human population relative to the available medical personnel and facilities, a sudden outbreak of epidemic diseases and its resultant spread into a pandemic may pose a risk to the wellbeing of human populace. Thus, state-of-the-art innovations in communication engineering and technology is able to provide a support mechanism to healthcare domain. This paper analyzed pillars and paradigms in information and communications technology (ICT) deployable in the healthcare domain and estimates a compliance index based on the subset in which the ICT pillars and paradigms are decomposed. The analysis revealed that technological advances in the areas of robotics and internet of things (IoT) paradigm presented a potential support mechanism for healthcare domain. Finally, the paper concluded with insight into the implementation of these technologies and other supporting pillars and paradigms towards a pervasive healthcare system, enlisted recommendations, and future directions.
Factors Influencing Attitude and Intention Towards Adoption of Mobile Banking in Myanmar
Authors: Aung Tun Tun
Published: October 2020

Constructs related to an individual's mobile banking (MB) adoption were identified from previous studies as the commonly used factors: perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, trust, and social influence. A theoretical model was proposed with these factors directly affecting an individual's attitude and intention to use MB. Personal factors (gender, age, education, and income) were included in the model as moderators of those direct effects. As reported in previous studies perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, trust, and social influence were found to have important effects on attitude and intention. The new findings related to the investigation of moderating effects due to personal factors have not been mentioned in the earlier MB research. The findings identified groups of individuals where personal motivations have significant effects on attitude and intention to use MB, and importantly, groups where the effects are not significant but may be increased by recommended practical actions.
Evolving Attitudes Toward the Personal Use of Technology While at Work
Authors: Balint Bryon Patrick
Published: October 2020

Since the advent of the consumer internet and later the smartphone, the lines between “work time” and “personal time” have eroded. Employees increasingly have access to technology that facilitates the performance of personal activities while in the workplace. This study examines changes in attitudes towards using technology for personal gain while at work. The study uses a longitudinal data set of survey data collected from 2013 to 2018. This paper finds that attitudes have become more permissive over time when it comes to using technology for personal productivity and for obtaining information not related to work. In contrast, this research also finds that attitudes towards using technology for relaxation and entertainment while at work have become less permissive.
Pedagogical Innovation in Higher Education
Authors: Major Jae , Tait-McCutcheon Sandi Lynne , Averill Robin , Gilbert Amanda , Knewstubb Bernadette , Mortlock Anita , Jones Liz
Published: October 2020

Quality teaching in higher education (HE) is gaining increasing international attention and pedagogical innovation is seen as an important construct of quality teaching. The drivers for pedagogical innovation include the need for 21st century skills and understandings, student demographics and empowerment, technological advances, and a turn to teaching in HE. Defining innovative pedagogies is a recurring challenge in the literature and a key focus of this article. Using an investigation into innovative approaches to teaching and learning at one New Zealand university, prevailing themes of newness, benefit, and student outcomes are discussed to develop a working definition. What is missing from the discourses and definitions is specific consideration of the influence of context on what counts as pedagogical innovation. In light of this, the authors offer an emergent definition of pedagogical innovation in higher education.
RELAÇÃO ENTRE O PÚBLICO E O PRIVADO NA EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL: A ATUAÇÃO DA FUNDAÇÃO MARIA CECILIA SOUTO VIDIGAL
Authors: Hans Sasson Melissa Daiane , Campos Rosânia
Published: October 2020

Este artigo objetiva analisar os novos modos de arranjos entre o público e o privado na Educação Infantil, de modo especial, analisando o papel de uma fundação que vem ganhado visibilidade no campo de elaboração e orientação de políticas públicas para infância. Trata-se de uma pesquisa documental que tem por aporte teórico as discussões de Estado a partir de teóricos críticos com base epistemológica no materialismo histórico dialético. Nesse processo, procuramos desvelar qual a concepção de sociedade civil presente nas orientações emanadas dessa Fundação, bem como compreender qual sua relação com o Estado. As análises indicam que a Fundação se aproxima do projeto da Terceira Via, ressignificando, entre outros conceitos, o conceito de sociedade civil e de gestão democrática.
AINDA SOBRE FEMINISMO E SUAS POSSIBILIDADES NA DOCÊNCIA DA PÓS-GRADUAÇÃO EM EDUCAÇÃO
Authors: Eggert Edla
Published: October 2020

O artigo analisa uma experiência didática, produzida com estudantes da Pós-Graduação em Educação da cidade de Porto Alegre-RS, em uma disciplina de Gênero, Classe e Raça, sistematizada por meio de uma autoetnografia. Discute o espanto das estudantes com o desconhecimento sobre o feminismo, de modo geral, que ainda não circula na academia, em especial na área da Educação. Narra o processo de envolvimento com as leituras de textos de Davis, González e Saffioti e o incômodo resultante, que levou uma parte do grupo para uma ação pedagógica, em um cursinho popular pré-vestibular, na periferia de Porto Alegre, e outra parte a escrever cartas para a professora sobre suas rupturas no transcurso do semestre. Conclui com o convite a outras releituras e proposições da formação continuada no campo da Pós-Graduação em Educação.
ENSINAR E APRENDER COM MEMES
Authors: De Jesus Oliveira Kaio Eduardo , Porto Cristiane de Magalhães
Published: October 2020

Memes são experiências compartilhadas de sentidos que produzem causa e efeito na construção de subjetividades na internet, que vão mais além que produção singular de sua condição de comicidade e brincadeira em rede. Assim, bem mais que produções efêmeras da cibercultura, os memes também são objetos de aprendizagem sobre variados temas. Deste modo, este artigo tem como objetivo discutir a construção de situações de aprendizagem e divulgação científica, a partir dos memes em redes sociais. Para isso, foi elaborado uma pesquisa qualitativa, do tipo bilbiográfica, com abordagem exploratória, com o proposito de coletar memes ligados aos seguintes indicadores: o primeiro, ser um meme sobre ciência. Isto é, estabelecer um enunciado direto ou indireto sobre uma ciência, um fato científico, ou personagem da Ciência. O segundo, ligado a relevância do meme, na publicação da página, levando em consideração a popularidade, quantidade de comentários e curtidas, o que reflete um suposto interesse maior dos usuários pelo tema. Assim, conclui-se que os memes produzem deslocamento na linguagem da divulgação científica que se articula por meio da comicidade e da intertextualidade da linguagem digital, o que produz diferentes situações de aprendizagem
CONTRIBUIÇÕES DA TEORIA DO DISCURSO E DO PENSAMENTO DE CHANTAL MOUFFE PARA A GESTÃO ESCOLAR
Authors: Abdian Graziela Zambão , Doro Verônica Borguetti
Published: October 2020

O presente artigo está vinculado a uma pesquisa mais ampla que analisa se e como a área da Gestão da educação/escolar pode ser pensada por outra perspectiva, tendo como subsídios autores pós-críticos. O objetivo deste texto, especificamente, é trazer elementos centrais da Teoria do Discurso e possíveis contribuições de Chantal Mouffe para as discussões teóricas da área. O material analisado foi o conjunto de conclusões de pesquisas que analisam as produções de conhecimento da área da Política e Gestão da educação, por meio de análises de conjuntos de teses, dissertações e artigos. Os resultados da análise indicam que a Teoria do Discurso e o pensamento político da autora podem contribuir de forma significativa para as pesquisas, principalmente porque evidenciam aspectos da emoção presentes nas relações políticas da educação.

Palavras chave: Gestão da educação/escolar. Teoria do Discurso. Chantal Mouffe.
O CILINDRO DE CIRO
Authors: Rocha Ivan Esperança
Published: October 2020

O cilindro de Ciro contém a descrição da conquista de Babilônia por Ciro, em 539 a.C. O documento é considerado uma propaganda aquemênida destinada a legitimar e glorificar o governo de Ciro, apresentando-o como um rei justo e pacífico que restaura templos e cultos religiosos e liberta prisioneiros de guerra e os judeus, deportados para a  Babilônia, havia mais de 50 anos. Desconsiderando-se seu teor ideológico, o Cilindro de Ciro foi utilizado abusivamente como uma carta de direitos humanos da Antiguidade.
OS INTELECTUAIS E A UNIVERSIDADE MEDIEVAL
Authors: Magalhães Ana Paula Tavares
Published: October 2020

A Universidade medieval surgiu a partir da associação entre tradição e transformação, no contexto da Idade Média Central. Muito rapidamente, a instituição universitária passou a integrar a mesma dinâmica social das cidades e a reproduzir idênticos conflitos políticos entre senhorios, reinos e bispados. A inserção das Ordens Mendicantes no ambiente universitário viria a reforçar sua legitimidade social e a inserir os frades nos conflitos políticos do período. A Universidade de Paris em particular seria o palco dos grandes embates acadêmicos e dos grandes conflitos pelo poder ao longo do século XIII. No caso da Ordem Franciscana, destaca-se o pensamento de Boaventura de Bagnoregio (c.1221-1274), tributário da epistemologia agostiniana e, ao mesmo tempo, dotado de características que particularizaram a filosofia medieval.
ESTÁGIO SUPERVISIONADO: ASPECTOS HISTÓRICOS E A (AUTO)FORMAÇÃO DE PROFESSORES DE MATEMÁTICA
Authors: Francisco Ronald Feitosa Moraes  , Paulo Meireles Barguil
Published: October 2020

O Estágio Supervisionado – ES contribui para que o professor constitua-se enquanto profissional crítico-reflexivo e construa os saberes docentes necessários para uma prática autônoma, empática e dialógica. Este artigo tem como finalidade analisar o ES em seus aspectos histórico, legal, teórico e metodológico, compreendendo a sua contribuição para a formação inicial do professor de Matemática, bem como refletir sobre o reconhecimento inicial da construção dos saberes e práticas docentes no ES. Para tanto, abordaremos como se constituiu o ES, no Brasil, desde a década de 1940 até os dias atuais, utilizando, principalmente, nessa reflexão, dispositivos legais, estudos teóricos e as Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais (BRASIL, 2015). Discorreremos, ainda, sobre a Formação de Professores de Matemática, mediante a atuação no ES, tendo como inspiração as contribuições de vários pesquisadores. O levantamento historiográfico evidenciou importantes mudanças nas concepções de aprendizagem da profissão docente.
Simulation of Mechanical Behaviour of Materials Using Constant Boundary Elements - A Discussion on the Accuracy of Results for Beams
Authors: Kirana Kumara P.
Published: October 2020

The Boundary Element Method (BEM) is one among the most popular simulation techniques employed to simulate mechanical behaviour of materials, including smart engineering materials. Although BEM is a quite well-established numerical technique, literature tells that the method may not be well suited to simulate structures where one or two of the dimensions is much smaller than the remaining dimension/s (for a 3D problem). Hence in this work, deflection of a cantilever beam is simulated using constant boundary elements to get a feel of the accuracy of the BEM when used to simulate such type of structures. Although the concept is not new, the study assumes significance because studies which list the results in detail are not readily found in the literature. In this study, the results are obtained for different mesh resolutions also. The results indicate that - as expected - constant boundary elements are not a good choice for simulating the mechanical behaviour of smart materials when the structural member to be simulated is thin. Although it is a known fact that constant boundary elements converge very slowly, the present study helps to get a clearer picture on the accuracy and the convergence rate that one can expect from constant boundary elements. This paper heavily borrows content from this author’s PhD thesis [1]. The geometry considered in this paper is a beam. One may also note that the author is publishing another paper [2] (“Simulation of Mechanical Behaviour of Materials using Constant Boundary Elements - A Discussion on the Accuracy of Results for Bars”) that is very similar to this paper except that the geometry considered in that paper is a bar.
Studies of Bearing Elements of the Frame of Hinged Facade Systems, Taking into Account the Progressive Destruction and Temperature Effects
Authors: Frolovskaia Aleksandra Victorovna , Petukhova Inna Y. , Klinduh Nadezhda Yu. , Terekhova Irina I. , Petrova Yulia M.
Published: October 2020

The authors on the basis of numerical studies have analyzed the effect of progressive destruction and temperature influence on the operation and stress-strain state of the bearing elements of the frame of hinged facade systems.
Study of Strength and Deformation Properties of the Composite Reinforcing Bar from the Continuous Basalt Fiber
Authors: Stupishin L.Yu. , Emelyeanov S.G. , Savelyeva E.V. , Moshkevich M.L.
Published: October 2020

Composite structures require the use of modern reinforcing materials combining high strength characteristics and resistance to aggressive influences with low weight. One of the promising materials for the production of reinforcing products is basalt roving. The high strength of the thread in combination with fragility imposes certain limitations on its placement in the material, and requires new approaches to the design of the reinforcing bar itself. The article investigates the strength characteristics of a composite reinforcing bar made of a basalt complex thread proposed by the authors. The features of the test procedure and the mechanical characteristics of the reinforcing material are described. The effectiveness of the applied test method developed in the process of testing reinforcing rods is shown. An increase in the tensile strength of a composite reinforcing bar based on basalt fiber is established in comparison with products from fiber and roving.
Determining High-Temperature Oxidation Resistance of Ti-Al-Cr-Si-N Based Nitride Thin Coatings Deposited on Titanium Alloys
Authors: Savkovs Konstantins , Andrejeva Darja
Published: October 2020

This article considers the possibility of applying thin Ti-Al-Cr-Si-N based nitride thin coatings (up to 10 microns) for increasing the heat-resistance of titanium alloy blades without altering their aerofoil. It presents the results of testing samples, which were coated by using different ratios of the parameters of main element deposition simultaneously from various sputtering sources, as well as an assessment of the efficiency of these coatings in terms of oxidation at temperatures of 750–850°С.
Exosomal miRNA-19a and miRNA-614 Induced by Air Pollutants Promote Proinflammatory M1 Macrophage Polarization via Regulation of RORα Expression in Human Respiratory Mucosal Microenvironment
Authors: Shin Cheol-Hee , Byun Junhyoung , Lee Kijeong , Kim Byoungjae , Noh Yong Kwan , Tran Na Ly , Park Kwideok , Kim Sang-Heon , Kim Tae Hoon , Oh Seung Ja
Published: October 2020

Air pollution exposure leads to various inflammatory diseases in the human respiratory system. Chronic rhinosinusitis is an inflammatory disease caused by viruses, bacteria, or air pollutants. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms through which air particulate matter (PM) causes inflammation and disease remain unclear. In this article, we report that the induction of exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) from human nasal epithelial cells upon airborne PM exposure promotes proinflammatory M1 macrophage polarization via downregulated RORα expression. Exposure of human nasal epithelial cells to PM results in inflammation-related miRNA expression, and more miRNA is secreted through exosomes delivered to macrophages. Among these, miRNA-19a and miRNA-614 directly bind to the 3′-untranslated region of RORα mRNA and downregulate RORα expression, which leads to inflammation due to inflammatory cytokine upregulation and induces macrophages to a proinflammatory M1-like state. Finally, we showed enhanced expression of miRNA-19a and miRNA-614 but reduced RORα expression in a chronic rhinosinusitis patient tissue compared with the normal. Altogether, our results suggest that PM-induced exosomal miRNAs might play a crucial role in the proinflammatory mucosal microenvironment and macrophage polarization through the regulation of RORα expression.
Specialized Proresolving Mediators Overcome Immune Suppression Induced by Exposure to Secondhand Smoke
Authors: Bhat Tariq A. , Kalathil Suresh Gopi , Miller Austin , Thatcher Thomas H. , Sime Patricia J. , Thanavala Yasmin
Published: October 2020

Tobacco smoke exposure is associated with multiple diseases including, respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Tobacco smoke is a potent inflammatory trigger and is immunosuppressive, contributing to increased susceptibility to pulmonary infections in smokers, ex-smokers, and vulnerable populations exposed to secondhand smoke. Tobacco smoke exposure also reduces vaccine efficacy. Therefore, mitigating the immunosuppressive effects of chronic smoke exposure and improving the efficacy of vaccinations in individuals exposed to tobacco smoke, is a critical unmet clinical problem. We hypothesized that specialized proresolving mediators (SPMs), a class of immune regulators promoting resolution of inflammation, without being immunosuppressive, and enhancing B cell Ab responses, could reverse the immunosuppressive effects resulting from tobacco smoke exposure. We exposed mice to secondhand smoke for 8 wk, followed by a period of smoke exposure cessation, and the mice were immunized with the P6 lipoprotein from nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae, using 17-HDHA and aspirin-triggered–resolvin D1 (AT-RvD1) as adjuvants. 17-HDHA and AT-RvD1 used as adjuvants resulted in elevated serum and bronchoalveolar lavage levels of anti-P6–specific IgG and IgA that were protective, with immunized mice exhibiting more rapid bacterial clearance upon challenge, reduced pulmonary immune cell infiltrates, reduced production of proinflammatory cytokines, and less lung-epithelial cell damage. Furthermore, the treatment of mice with AT-RvD1 during a period of smoke-cessation further enhanced the efficacy of SPM-adjuvanted P6 vaccination. Overall, SPMs show promise as novel vaccine adjuvants with the ability to overcome the tobacco smoke-induced immunosuppressive effects.
Unravelling taxonomic ambiguity of the Mastacembelidae in the Mekong Delta (Vietnam) through DNA barcoding and morphological approaches
Authors: Duong Thuy-Yen , Tran Liem Van Dung , Nguyen Ngoc-Tran Thi , Jamaluddin Jamsari Amirul Firdaus , Azizah Mohd Nor Siti
Published: October 2020

Morphological-based species identification can be problematic for a comparative worldwide survey if taxonomic keys are limited and inconsistent, as illustrated in the family Mastacembelidae. This study combined DNA barcoding and morphological methods to test species identification of Mastacembelidae in the Mekong Delta with emphasis on taxonomic ambiguity of the precise identification of the fish locally known as chach bong. Fish specimens were collected from fishermen in different regions of the delta. Five presumed species within two genera were recorded. Samples were morphologically measured for morphometric and meristic traits. Representative samples of each species were sequenced at the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. The number of dorsal fin spines and general morphological appearance are distinguishable among the five presumed species. However, morphometric measurements overlapped between Macrognathus semiocellatus and Macrognathus siamensis. K2P distances based on COI sequences among species were high, ranging from 12.4% to 18.7%. All individuals were separated into monophyletic groups of species, clustered into Mastacembelus and two Macrognathus lineages. Chach bong should be recognized as Mastacembelus favus and not Mastacembelus armatus as previously classified. No Mastacembelus armatus was recorded in the Mekong Delta. GenBank sequences of Mastacembelus armatus formed a sister relationship to Mastacembelus favus although both have the same range of number of dorsal fin spines and similar reticulated patterns on the body. Misidentification between these two species has been widely recorded in international databases of species taxonomy and DNA barcodes. Nonetheless, their genetic distance (12.4%) is higher than conspecific distances of samples from other regions, indicating the two species can be differentiated by DNA barcoding.
Effects of Goshajinkigan (TJ-107) for oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neurotoxicity using the functional assessment of cancer therapy/gynecologic oncology group 12-item neurotoxicity questionnaire in a Phase II, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Aoyama Toru , Morita Satoshi , Kono Toru , Hata Taishi , Mishima Hideyuki , Sakamoto Junichi
Published: October 2020

Background:

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of TJ-107 for oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neurotoxicity in prospective, multi-institutional, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase II trials using the functional assessment of cancer therapy/gynecologic oncology group 12-item neurotoxicity questionnaire (FACT-GOG-NTX-12).

Patients and Methods:

The patients who were registered to the Goshajinkigan oxaliplatin neurotoxicity evaluation study (UMIN000002211) were analyzed. A NTX-12 from the validated FACT/GOG-NTX-12 was assessed before treatment and at the end of every 2 cycles.

Results:

The comparisons of the median scores for TJ-107 and the placebo at 8 and 26 weeks were as follows: numbness or tingling in the hands (P = 0.5820), numbness or tingling in the feet (P = 0.3236), feeling of discomfort in the hands (P = 0.8219), feeling of discomfort in the feet (P = 0.5361), joint pain or muscle cramps (P = 0.1974), feeling weak all over (P = 0.2771), trouble hearing (P = 0.2832), ringing or buzzing in ears (P = 0.1031), trouble buttoning buttons (P = 0.1653), trouble feeling the shape of small objects when held in hand (P = 0.2919), trouble walking (P = 0.5406), and pain in the hands or feet when exposed to cold temperatures (P = 0.1872).

Conclusion:

There might be no clinically significant difference between the use of TJ-107 and the severity and quality of life for patients treated with oxaliplatin.
Face masks are an essential tool to mitigate the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a call to action
Authors: Dehgani-Mobaraki P. , Kamber Zaidi A. , Levy J.M. ,   Association Naso Sano
Published: October 2020

Over the past several months, an increasing volume of infor- mation has expanded awareness regarding the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus associated with COVID-19. Following the pandemic declaration by the World Health Orga- nization (WHO), global authorities immediately took measures to reduce the transmission and subsequent morbidity associa- ted with this highly contagious disease. However, despite initial success in “flattening the curve” of viral transmission, many areas of the world are currently experiencing an increase in com- munity transmission, threatening to replicate the early public health emergencies experienced by Italy (1,2). In addition, the possibility of contact tracing through geosocial applications and public service platforms have been met with variable interest (3). Given current spread and the upcoming influenza season, it is essential that we use our voices as experts in upper airway health and disease to educate and encourage all communities to adopt appropriate protective measures, including the routine use of facemasks.
Effect of cut seed tubers and pre-germination on potato tuber yield
Authors: Diop Pape , Sylla Elhadji Serigne , Diatte Mamadou , Labou Babacar , Diarra Karamoko
Published: October 2020

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the important vegetable crops in Senegal with the potential to improve the national food supply and economic benefits to smallholder producers. Experiment was conducted from November 2015 to March 2016 to assess the impact of cut seed tubers and pre-germination on seed tuber storage conditions on potato tubers yield. Four treatments were used for experiment. Pre-plant seed treatments were (T1) 136 whole seed tubers 45-55 g then pre-germinated; (T2) 68 cutted tubers 22-28 g then pre-germinated; (T3) 68 pre-germinated seed tubers then cut 22-28 g; (T) 136 whole seed tubers 45-55 g not pre-germinated (maintained 4 °C). Plants grown from whole and pre-germinated seed tubers had significantly higher yield and more number of secondary stems per plant, when compared to cut and or no pre-germinated seed (P < 0.001). Daughter tubers produced from cut seed resulted in higher small size potato tubers than those from whole seed (P < 0.001). However, no significant difference was found on potato seed emergence. Our results indicated a clear advantage to plant whole and pre-germinated seed potatoes with the aim of producing healthier daughter tubers and increasing yields.Keywords: Seed potato, whole seed, pre-germination, Niayes, Senegal.
Stabilization by co-composting dry drain sludge with fermentescible fractions of household garbage from the city of Sokodé (Togo)
Authors: Krou Nitale M'Balikine , Baba Gnon , Martín-Pascual Jaime , Zamorano Toro Montserrat
Published: October 2020

The management of fecal sludge is a recurrent problem for the actors in charge of the urban environment of Sokodé. Often, the sludge emptied is poured on empty spaces or used, without treatment, on urban and suburban agricultural land and for market gardening; in fact, a survey of market gardeners in the city of Sokodé found that around 40% of them directly use untreated dried sludge to amend their production areas. Consequently, bacteria and worm eggs can adhere to vegetable products and infect consumers. In view of these potential risks, the objective of this work was then to stabilize the organic matter of dried sludge with a view to their hygienic use for the agricultural amendment. In this research it has been developed compost obtained from fermentable fractions of household waste and compost obtained from the fermentable fractions of household waste with sludge (co-composting). Results have shown that both types of compost have a high content of nutrients, which is an advantage for use in the agriculture. Therefore, the assessment of stability and maturity parameters shows that co-composted sludge produces mature compost and can improve soil fertility without biological risk.Keywords: Bacteria, worm eggs, sludge, organic materials, market gardening.
Determinants of Income Diversification among Arable Crop Farmers in Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Idris-Adeniyi Kaothar Modupe , Busari Ahmed Oluwagbenga , Adedokun Stephen Adeolu
Published: October 2020

The study examined determinants of income diversification among arable crop farmers in Osun state, Nigeria. A total of 120 arable crop farmers were proportionately selected from the three agricultural zones in the State that was used for the study. Structured interview schedule was used to elicit relevant information from respondents. Frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation, diversity index and Tobit regression model were employed in data analysis. The majority of the farmers had access to farm credit and mean diversity index was 0.46. Factors influencing income diversification among respondents were age (t=-2.68, p≤0.01), credit (t=2.29, p0.05), household size (t=8.24, p≤0.01) and frequency of extension visits (t=2.24, p≤0.05). Only 6.67% of the farmers had income diversity index of 0 meaning that most of the respondents adopted multiple income generating-activities while crop farming remained their dominant income source. In the face of climate change and its attendant risks including total crop failure, farmers should be exposed to other viable farm and off-farm income generating activities, while they are provided with credit facilities to harness such opportunities.

Keywords: Income diversification, Arable crop farmers, Income generating activities
Strategies Use by Garlic Growers in Coping with Climate Variability in Occidental Mindoro, Philippines
Authors: Declaro-Ruedas Mary Yole Apple
Published: October 2020

The study determined garlic grower’s perception on livelihoods’ vulnerability to climate variability, the coping strategies employed, and the relationship between the profile and their coping mechanism to climate variability. Correlational research design was employed in this study. The respondents were randomly selected from the registered list of garlic growers in the municipalities of San Jose, Magsaysay, Calintaan, Rizal, Looc and Lubang of Occidental Mindoro, Philippines. Survey, interview guide and observation with the garlic growers and farmer leaders were done. Result showed vulnerability to climate variability indicators that were always perceived were pest and disease, lack of water supply and low quality of crops. The coping strategies that was always practiced was irrigating the land more during dry season using water pumps, since garlic is usually planted in the months of December to April. However, respondents indicated they ‘never’ got crop insurance and do not let their land be leased or rented by other farmers. Further, age and farming experience have significant relationship with coping mechanism employed.

Keywords: garlic, coping mechanism, climate variability, crop insurance
Women’s Movement in India: Trajectory of Organization, Ideology and Strategy
Authors: Vijaya Dr. K.
Published: October 2020

Indian society started to respond to the characteristic challenges of West, which gradually commenced from the dawn of 19th century. In this context, social reform became the first popular issue among Indian intellectuals who, inspired by the liberal views of social change and in the hope of preventing social abuses and launched movements more particularly for women. It is essential to understand in detail the new women movements, which are manifestations of pluralistic paradigm of development and democracy. Moreover, an insight into the struggle for women‟s rights will certainly become more intense in the coming decades. There is a qualitative difference and strategic variations between the present women‟s struggle and earlier liberation movements against oppression. This article focuses on women‟s movement and its role in India with special focus on Tamil Nadu. It also reviews the nature and working of women‟s organizations, as a lens to the Indian women‟s movement.
Design and Implementation of Wearable Photovoltaic Cell
Authors: Jegadeeswari Ms. G. , Rekha Ms. K.
Published: October 2020

Nowadays, Product Integrated Photovoltaic (PIPV) plays a major role in renewable energy sources, particularly for the infantry soldiers and defense industry. During war field, soldiers having various harms such as very cold temperature and some region like hot weather. Hence, in this risky process they cannot always be having the tools with battery for communication equipment and still in case they are prepared with batteries, it will be a big burden for them. Thus, to overcome this difficulty, a light weight wearable solar device being designed especially for the warrior. The proposed research contains a design, which is a portable-charging unit that utilizes flexible solar cells. The flexible solar cells are tested in different environment to find out the best arrangement and design for soldier‟s bag.
INSURGÊNCIAS LITERÁRIAS DE AUTORIA NEGRO-FEMININA
Authors: Santiago Ana Rita
Published: October 2020

A produção literária de algumas autoras negras brasileiras apresenta-se, frequentemente, marcada por uma gramática literária atravessada por táticas insurgentes de visibilidade e dessilenciamento de suas vozes autorais, bem como por temas e propósitos que se ancoram em tensionamentos do sexismo, a necropolítica e o racismo, com tons denunciativo e propositivo, e em poéticas de (re) existência, sonhos e memórias. Diante disso, este artigo faz leituras descritivo-interpretativas de algumas de suas tessituras poéticas, aportadas em princípios do devir-revolucionário (DELEUZE, 1990), resistências (FOUCAULT, 2002), (re) existência (SANTIAGO, 2018) e em algumas postulações da necropolítica (MBEMBE, 2018).

PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Poética de (re) existência. Insurgências. Escritoras Negras.
NOS ARCANOS DO IMPÉRIO, RACISMO E ESCRITA DE AUTORIA FEMININA NO ROMANCE DE EZILDA BARRETO
Authors: Silveira Ana Patrícia Frederico , Freitas Sávio Roberto Fonseca de
Published: October 2020

Este artigo se dedica ao estudo do romance Nos Arcanos do Império, da escritora paraibana Ezilda Barreto. Ao tempo que nosso enfoque se volta para o mapeamento da escrita  de autoria feminina na Paraíba, no sentido de tornar visível escritoras invisíveis nos compêndios históricos da literatura brasileira; também analisamos uma narrativa paraibana de autoria feminina que problema o tema da escravidão e do racismo negro em tempos de regime imperial. Para fundamentar nossos posicionamentos sobre autoria feminina paraibana e racismo na literatura brasileira nos apoiamos em Heloísa Buarque de Hollanda e Lúcia Araújo, Marcos Odilon, Gemy Candido, Iris Vasconcelos e Silvana Souza, entre outras referências recorridas ao longo das análises.

PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Invisibilidade. Século XX. Autoria feminina paraibana. Racismo.