Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 as an enabler for enhancing online learning and teaching skills for nurse educators at the University of Namibia: Prospects and challenges

Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused instability in the education system and has compelled higher education institutions (HEIs) to find alternative ways of teaching and learning by making use of the latest online teaching approaches. Aim The purpose of the study was to explore how COVID-19 could serve as an enabler for the enhancement of online learning and teaching skills for nurse educators at the University of Namibia with specific emphasis on prospects and challenges. Setting Semi-structured interviews were conducted in English at a public nursing education institution located in the northeast of Namibia. Methods A qualitative explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was used. Data were collected by means of in-depth semi-structured interviews with 18 nurse educators from the School of Nursing. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Field notes were simultaneously taken to enrich the data. Results The study revealed three themes: nurse educators’ experiences of the use of online learning and teaching skills, COVID-19 as an enabler for enhancing online learning and teaching skills and strategies to sustain online teaching and learning. Conclusion Internet technology has generated a surge in demand for web-based teaching and learning. The online learning mode was not effectively utilised during the COVID-19 era because of inadequate technological skills on the part of nurse educators. Contribution These findings can be used by universities to equip students and academic staff with skills to adapt to e-learning as the new modus operandi in learning and teaching in the post-COVID-19 era.
The shadow model: how and why small choices in spatially explicit species distribution models affect predictions

The use of species distribution models (SDMs) has rapidly increased over the last decade, driven largely by increasing observational evidence of distributional shifts of terrestrial and aquatic populations. These models permit, for example, the quantification of range shifts, the estimation of species co-occurrence, and the association of habitat to species distribution and abundance. The increasing complexity of contemporary SDMs presents new challenges—as the choices among modeling options increase, it is essential to understand how these choices affect model outcomes. Using a combination of original analysis and literature review, we synthesize the effects of three common model choices in semi-parametric predictive process species distribution modeling: model structure, spatial extent of the data, and spatial scale of predictions. To illustrate the effects of these choices, we develop a case study centered around sablefish (Anoplopoma fimbria) distribution on the west coast of the USA. The three modeling choices represent decisions necessary in virtually all ecological applications of these methods, and are important because the consequences of these choices impact derived quantities of interest (e.g., estimates of population size and their management implications). Truncating the spatial extent of data near the observed range edge, or using a model that is misspecified in terms of covariates and spatial and spatiotemporal fields, led to bias in population biomass trends and mean distribution compared to estimates from models using the full dataset and appropriate model structure. In some cases, these suboptimal modeling decisions may be unavoidable, but understanding the tradeoffs of these choices and impacts on predictions is critical. We illustrate how seemingly small model choices, often made out of necessity or simplicity, can affect scientific advice informing management decisions—potentially leading to erroneous conclusions about changes in abundance or distribution and the precision of such estimates. For example, we show how incorrect decisions could cause overestimation of abundance, which could result in management advice resulting in overfishing. Based on these findings and literature gaps, we outline important frontiers in SDM development.
Using partially specified models to detect and quantify structural sensitivity in biological systems

Mathematical models in ecology and evolution are highly simplified representations of a complex underlying reality. For this reason, there is always a high degree of uncertainty with regards to the model specification—not just in terms of parameters, but also in the form taken by the model equations themselves. This uncertainty becomes critical for models in which the use of two different functions fitting the same dataset can yield substantially different model predictions—a property known as structural sensitivity. In this case, even if the model is purely deterministic, the uncertainty in the model functions carries through into uncertainty in the model predictions, and new frameworks are required to tackle this fundamental problem. Here, we construct a framework that uses partially specified models: ODE models in which unknown functions are represented not by a specific functional form, but by an entire data range and constraints of biological realism. Partially specified models can be used to rigorously detect when models are structurally sensitive in their predictions concerning the character of an equilibrium point by projecting the data range into a generalised bifurcation space formed of equilibrium values and derivatives of any unspecified functions. The key question of how to carry out this projection is a serious mathematical challenge and an obstacle to the use of partially specified models. We address this challenge by developing several powerful techniques to perform such a projection.
Wheel/Rail Tangential Contact Stress Evaluation by Means Of the Modified Strip Method

The contact area assembled from strips and normal stress the strips is calculated with the Strip method. The output parameters from the Strip method that come into the modified procedure are: The article deals with the way of calculating tangential stresses over non-elliptical contact patch where Kalker’s simplified method FASTSIM can be used advantageously. This method named FASTSTRIP is adapted for non-elliptical contact area calculated by means of the Strip method. This method is almost as quick as FASTSIM and the results are similar to the CONTACT results. This method may be useful for rail vehicles in track dynamics computation. computation procedure.
The Effect of Digital Learning on the Academic Achievement and Motivation of Natural Sciences Learners: A Case Study of a South African Independent School

The South African basic education system is characterized by inadequate learner performance in science as a result of the provision of limited opportunities for learner-centred instruction. Digital resources can be used in science classrooms to enhance learner engagement and motivation. Digital resources include interactive game-based applications that can be used in online learning environments. This study examined the effect of digital learning on the academic achievement and motivation of grade 9 Natural Sciences learners in a South African independent school. The empirical investigation adopted a mixed method approach as part of a quasi-experimental design. Quantitative data was collected through the administration of questionnaires while qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews. A questionnaire based on the Skeletal System and a motivation questionnaire were administered as pre-tests and post-tests to establish the effectiveness of the use of digital resources as an instructional intervention on the academic achievement and motivation of grade 9 Natural Sciences learners. The empirical investigation is underpinned by the Cultural Historical Activity Theory as the underlying theoretical framework. Key findings revealed significant difference between the pre-test and post-test scores as a result of the use of digital resources as an instructional intervention. Theoretical implications for technology-enhanced teaching and learning are discussed.
It’s a Man’s World: A Qualitative Study of Gender and Sexuality amongst Australian Gay Men

Currently, research explicitly examining masculinity and internalized homonegativity is sparse, and even sparser studies are those using qualitative methods. To address this, this study aims to explore: how gender norms are constructed and experienced amongst gay men; and how gender and sexual identity are experienced in relation to masculine norms amongst gay men. A sample of 32 self-identified gay men aged 22–72 years (M = 34.34, SD = 12.94) participated in an online semi-structured interview on masculinity and homosexuality. The study used Zoom to facilitate the online interviews as it offered privacy, accessibility, ease of use, and voice recording, among other benefits. Thematic analyses revealed gay men’s understandings of masculinity, femininity, and sources of pressure to conform. Furthermore, gay men emphasize the conflict experienced between heteronormative gender and sexuality norms, which highlights the term homosexual male as an oxymoron.
Suspected Primary Spontaneous Asymptomatic Pneumothorax in a Cat

Spontaneous pneumothorax (SPT) is a documented emergency of the respiratory tract condition classified as either primary or secondary based on the presence of underlying pulmonary conditions. All reported SPT in the feline literature are evaluated for respiratory clinical signs. Primary SPT without underlying pathology or without clinical signs is not reported in cats. This case report describes a 10-year-old domestic longhair cat that was referred for evaluation of chronic lethargy with severe azotemia and placement of a subcutaneous ureteral bypass (SUB) system. Prior to presentation, the cat was diagnosed with renal insufficiency and treated medically with no resolution. Clinical examination under sedation revealed right-sided renomegaly. Thoracic radiographs revealed gas in the caudodorsal pleural space and concurrent pulmonary atelectasis. No respiratory clinical signs were present. Thoracic CT showed two pulmonary bullae, one located in the right caudal lung lobe and one in the cranial segment of the left cranial lung lobe. Abdominal ultrasound showed a right-sided ureteral obstruction. Medical management was elected for the spontaneous pneumothorax. A SUB was placed to address the ureteral obstruction; no complications were noted during recovery. The cat was free of clinical signs of respiratory disease after a follow-up time of nine months. This is the first reported case of a cat diagnosed with a nonclinical suspected primary spontaneous pneumothorax with no concurrent predisposing pulmonary pathology.
Efficiency measurement of bus routes and exogenous operating environment effects on efficiency

ABSTRACT This study develops an independent efficiency measurement model framework of bus routes, so as to treat preferably the heterogeneous outputs in a data envelopment analysis (DEA)-based efficiency measurement. It then introduces four new exogenous operating environment factors at the microscopic level of bus routes, and applies the three-stage DEA approach to incorporate operating environment effects and statistical noise into the efficiency measurement framework. The main purpose is to measure impartially the managerial efficiency of bus routes, purged of operating environment effects and statistical noise, and additionally to investigate the operating environment effects on efficiency. An empirical analysis, based on 39 routes operated in Jiangyin City, China, is presented. The principal finding is that the adoption of the independent efficiency measurement model framework is reasonable and has many virtues. Moreover, the proposed approach could substantially provide decision support both for regulators and for producers of bus services. In addition, the operating environment does indeed significantly affect operating efficiency and quality efficiency, especially the latter.
Reactive Sulphur Species and Exposome: A Perspective on Potential Role in Alleviating UV-Induced Stress

Exposome is a field of study that identifies and recognises the impact of environmental exposures on a person's health and development, starting from the prenatal period onward. Oxidative stress is commonly associated as one of the underlying mechanisms of ultraviolet radiation (UV)-induced damage in the skin, due to the overproduction of a reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body. Evidently, overexposure to UV radiation will cause a disturbance in the ability to balance the ROS levels in the body, leading to damaging effects such as protein modifications, lipid peroxidation, and DNA mutations, which will progress into cell death. Reactive sulphur species (RSS) are molecules that have the capability to oxidise or reduce biomolecules under physiological conditions. In this review, the mechanism of UV-induced cellular damage will be discussed and later lead to the conclusion on how RSS plays an important role in combating oxidative stress induced by UV exposure.
Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Ovine Oestrosis in Dendi District of Central Ethiopia

Background Ovine oestrosis is an economically important and widely distributed parasitic disease of sheep that is caused by Oestrus ovis larvae across the world. Despite the fact that Oestrus ovis is a common parasite in Ethiopia and that there are many sheep in the study area, there is no information on the prevalence, larval burden, predilection sites, and risk factors associated with Oestrus ovis infestation in sheep in the Dendi district of West Shewa Zone, Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2017 to April 2018, to estimate the prevalence, risk factors, and larval burden, and identify common predilection sites for Oestrus ovis larvae. A total of 180 sheep heads were randomly selected from five purposely selected restaurants in Ginchi town, Dendi district, transported to the laboratory, opened with a hand saw, and visually examined for infestations. The larvae were collected from positive sheep heads and counted. The sites where the larvae were obtained were recorded. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 software. Results Of the total of 180 examined sheep heads, 104 (57.8%) were infested with larvae of Oestrus ovis. In the study, a statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) was not observed in the prevalence of Oestrus ovis in relation to all considered risk factors such as sex, age, and origin of sheep. From 104 infested sheep, a total of 664 larvae were detected in different parts of sheep heads. The mean larval intensity per infected animal with Oestrus ovis was 6.38. In this study, the minimum and maximum numbers of larvae recovered were 1 and 26, respectively. The nasal cavity, nasal sinus and frontal sinus were the predilection sites of Oestrus ovis larvae identified in this study. Conclusion Oestrosis is an important and common parasitic disease of sheep in the study area.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practices regarding Waste Management in Selected Hostel Students of University of Rajasthan, Jaipur

The risk of unhealthy disposal of solid waste is one of the important problems in many societies. Environmental knowledge attitude practices of young people (like students) appears to be crucial as their point of view ultimately plays an important role in providing solution to future environmental problems. The study was conducted aiming to find knowledge attitude and practices of University students with respect to waste management. Total 300 students were included in this study. Data collected by self administered questionnaire and analyzed, using‘t’ test. It was found that knowledge attitude and practices of University students regarding waste management was low, less favorable and moderate respectively and correlation between knowledge and attitude, attitude and practices was not found, but significant correlation was found between knowledge and practices.
Avoiding the Middle Income Trap: Evidence and Examination of Few Countries

The middle income trap is a spectre looming up in front of countries who have performed well to rise up to middle income level from the lower income level, and are hoping for a quick admission to upper income echelons. Unfortunately, the trap seems unavoidable for many middle income nations, as seen poignantly in the case of Argentina and even Brazil. This paper tries to pinpoint the performance parameters that distinguish countries such as Malaysia and Chile who have been successful in avoiding getting mired in the trap – and may be now even viewing it nonchalantly as just a mirage appearing during the development process. The parameters identified as probable positive forces include the pillars of the Global Competitive Index, in addition to the usual suspects appearing in economic growth theory and estimations. Estimation of coefficients was carried by cross-country regressions using a sample of seventy upper and lower income nations. ICT adaptation, innovative capabilities, health standards, and openness as represented by FDI and export ratios to GDP were identified as parameters identified as important in closing the per capita income gap towards high income nations.
Stochastic Ultralow-Frequency Oscillations of the Luminescence Intensity from the Surface of a Polymer Membrane Swelling in Aqueous Salt Solutions

Photoluminescence from the surface of a Nafion polymer membrane upon swelling in isotonic aqueous solutions and Milli-Q water has been studied. Liquid samples were preliminarily processed by electric pulses with a duration of 1 μs and an amplitude of 0.1 V using an antenna in the form of a flat capacitor; experiments on photoluminescent spectroscopy were carried out 20 min after this treatment. A typical dependence of the luminescence intensity, I, on the swelling time, t, obeys an exponentially decaying function. The characteristic decay time of these functions and the stationary level of luminescence intensity depend on the repetition rate of electrical pulses, and the obtained dependences are well reproduced. It transpired that, at certain pulse repetition rates, the dependence, I(t), is a random function, and there is no reproducibility. Stochastic effects are associated with a random external force of an electromagnetic nature that acts on a polymer membrane during swelling. The source of this random force, in our opinion, is low-frequency pulsations of neutron stars or white dwarfs.
Occupancy Flow Fields for Motion Forecasting in Autonomous Driving

We propose Occupancy Flow Fields, a new representation for motion forecasting of multiple agents, an important task in autonomous driving. Our representation is a spatio-temporal grid with each grid cell containing both the probability of the cell being occupied by any agent, and a two-dimensional flow vector representing the direction and magnitude of the motion in that cell. Our method successfully mitigates shortcomings of the two most commonly-used representations for motion forecasting: trajectory sets and occupancy grids. Although occupancy grids efficiently represent the probabilistic location of many agents jointly, they do not capture agent motion and lose the agent identities. To this end, we propose a deep learning architecture that generates Occupancy Flow Fields with the help of a new flow trace loss that establishes consistency between the occupancy and flow predictions. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach using three metrics on occupancy prediction, motion estimation, and agent ID recovery. In addition, we introduce the problem of predicting speculative agents, which are currently-occluded agents that may appear in the future through dis-occlusion or by entering the field of view. We report experimental results on a large in-house autonomous driving dataset and the public INTERACTION dataset, and show that our model outperforms state-of-the-art models.
Human Resources in Nonprofits: An Indicator of Managerial Preparedness or Program Needs?

Abstract This article examines whether a nonprofit’s reliance on staff and volunteers is associated with its program needs or its managerial preparedness to manage these human resources, or some combination thereof. Using the Statistics of Income (SOI) data sets provided by the National Center for Charitable Statistics (NCCS), we find that both a nonprofit’s purpose to deliver services and managerial preparedness within a nonprofit to be significantly associated with an increase in number of staff and volunteers; in addition, the association between the surge in program needs and the increase in number of staff and volunteers can be conditioned by the managerial preparedness of an organization. The findings underscore the need for nonprofit organizations and their donors, especially governments and foundations, to make deliberate efforts to ensure organizational readiness and the ability to manage and sustain the supply of human resources.
The Effects of Insertion Approach on the Stability of Dental Implants

Dental implant surgery involves the insertion of a dental implant into the alveolar bone; the success of the surgery depends on the initial stability of the implant. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of dental implant insertion approaches in clinical surgery and in accordance with the standards of American Society for Testing and Materials on initial implant stability. Three insertion approaches were used for dental implant placement (Branemark Systems NobelSpeedy Groovy, Nobel Biocare AB, Gothenburg, Sweden) in two types of artificial bone—good bone (GB) and poor bone (PB). The three insertion approaches were as follows: (1) continuous rotation insertion (CRI): using a torque testing machine to continuously screw in an implant to completion and (2 and 3) intermittent rotation insertion (IRI)_90 and IRI_80: using CRI to bury an implant to 90% and 80% of its full length followed by IRI to complete the implantation, respectively. The maximum insertion torque value (ITV), periotest value (PTV), and implant stability quotient (ISQ) were measured and compared. The results indicated that bone quality and insertion approach both affected implant stability. Insertion approaches affected all three implant stability indicators differently in the GB and PB groups (p = 0.008). In GB groups, the insertion approach primarily affected ITV, whereas in PB groups, it primarily affected PTV. The effect of the insertion approach was less apparent for ISQ. Overall, in both the GB and PB groups, the implant stability for IRI_80 was greater than that for IRI_90, and the implant stability for IRI_90 was greater than that for CRI. Future in vitro studies should adopt an insertion approach that complies with the clinical practice for dental implant surgery. Dentists should adjust the timing for IRI in dental implant surgery to achieve greater initial dental implant stability.