bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategic discussion on funding and access to therapies targeting rare diseases in Spain: an expert consensus paper
Authors: Zozaya N. , Villaseca J. , Abdalla F. , Ancochea A. , Málaga I. , Trapero-Bertran M. , Martín-Sobrino N. , Delgado O. , Ferré P. , Hidalgo-Vega A.
Published: February 2023

Background

In recent years, significant advances have been made in the field of rare diseases (RDs). However, there is a large number of RDs without specific treatment and half of these treatments have public funding in Spain. The aim of the FINEERR project was to carry out a multidisciplinary strategic discussion on the challenge of funding and access to RD-targeted drugs in Spain, in order to agree on specific proposals for medium-term improvement and hence support decision-making in the Spanish National Healthcare System (SNHS).

Results

The FINEERR Project was organized around a CORE Advisory Committee, which provided an overview, agreed on the design and scope of the project, and selected the members within each of four working groups (WG). Overall, 40 experts discussed and reached a consensus on different relevant aspects, such as conditioning factors for initial funding and access, evaluation and access to RD-targeted therapies, funding of these therapies, and implementation of a new funding and access model. From these meetings, 50 proposals were defined and classified by their level of relevance according to the experts. A descriptive analysis of responses was performed for each proposal. Thereafter, experts completed another questionnaire where they ranked the 25 most relevant proposals according to their level of feasibility of being implemented in the SNHS. The most relevant and feasible proposals were to improve: process of referral of patients with RDs, control over monitoring mechanisms, and communication between healthcare professionals and patients.

Conclusions

The FINEERR project may provide a starting point for stakeholders involved in the process of funding and access to RD-targeted therapies in Spain to provide the necessary resources and implement measures to improve both the quality of life and life expectancy of patients with RDs.
Systems metabolic engineering of Escherichia coli for hyper-production of 5‑aminolevulinic acid
Authors: Pu Wei , Chen Jiuzhou , Zhou Yingyu , Qiu Huamin , Shi Tuo , Zhou Wenjuan , Guo Xuan , Cai Ningyun , Tan Zijian , Liu Jiao , Feng Jinhui , Wang Yu , Zheng Ping , Sun Jibin
Published: February 2023

Background

5-Aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) is a promising biostimulant, feed nutrient, and photodynamic drug with wide applications in modern agriculture and therapy. Although microbial production of 5-ALA has been improved realized by using metabolic engineering strategies during the past few years, there is still a gap between the present production level and the requirement of industrialization.

Results

In this study, pathway, protein, and cellular engineering strategies were systematically employed to construct an industrially competitive 5-ALA producing Escherichia coli. Pathways involved in precursor supply and product degradation were regulated by gene overexpression and synthetic sRNA-based repression to channel metabolic flux to 5-ALA biosynthesis. 5-ALA synthase was rationally engineered to release the inhibition of heme and improve the catalytic activity. 5-ALA transport and antioxidant defense systems were targeted to enhance cellular tolerance to intra- and extra-cellular 5-ALA. The final engineered strain produced 30.7 g/L of 5-ALA in bioreactors with a productivity of 1.02 g/L/h and a yield of 0.532 mol/mol glucose, represent a new record of 5-ALA bioproduction.

Conclusions

An industrially competitive 5-ALA producing E. coli strain was constructed with the metabolic engineering strategies at multiple layers (protein, pathway, and cellular engineering), and the strategies here can be useful for developing industrial-strength strains for biomanufacturing.
Worldwide host associations of the tick genus Ixodes suggest relationships based on environmental sharing rather than on co-phylogenetic events
Authors: Estrada-Peña Agustín , Guglielmone Alberto A. , Nava Santiago
Published: February 2023

Background

This study aims to capture how ticks of the genusIxodesgained their hosts using network constructs. We propose two alternative hypotheses, namely, an ecological background (ticks and hosts sharing environmentally available conditions) and a phylogenetic one, in which both partners co-evolved, adapting to existing environmental conditions after the association took place.

Methods

We used network constructs linking all the known pairs of associations between each species and stage of ticks with families and orders of hosts. Faith’s phylogenetic diversity was used to evaluate the phylogenetic distance of the hosts of each species and changes occurring in the ontogenetic switch between consecutive stages of each species (or the extent of the changes in phylogenetic diversity of hosts for consecutive stages of the same species).

Results

We report highly clustered associations amongIxodesticks and hosts, supporting the influence of the ecological adaptation and coexistence, demonstrating a lack of strict tick-host coevolution in most cases, except for a few species. Keystone hosts do not exist in the relationships betweenIxodesand vertebrates because of the high redundancy of the networks, further supporting an ecological relationship between both types of partners. The ontogenetic switch of hosts is high for species with enough data, which is another potential clue supporting the ecological hypothesis. Other results suggest that the networks displaying tick-host associations are different according to the biogeographical realms. Data for the Afrotropical region reveal a lack of extensive surveys, while results for the Australasian region are suggestive of a mass extinction of vertebrates. The Palearctic network is well developed, with many links demonstrating a highly modular set of relationships.

Conclusions

With the obvious exceptions ofIxodesspecies restricted to one or a few hosts, the results point to an ecological adaptation. Even results on species linked to groups of ticks (such asIxodes uriaeand the pelagic birds or the bat-tick species) are suggestive of a previous action of environmental forces.

Graphical Abstract
Level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and vitamin D receptor in diabetic foot ulcer and factor associated with diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Tang Ying , Huang Yixuan , Luo Li , Xu Murong , Deng Datong , Fang Zhaohui , Zhao Xiaotong , Chen Mingwei
Published: February 2023

Background

At present, there is no clinical study to elucidate the correlation between vitamin D deficiency and the incidence of diabetic foot osteomyelitis (DFO).This study aims to clarify levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)VD] in peripheral blood and vitamin D receptor (VDR) expression in wound margin tissues (T-VDR) of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) and DFO, and to determine its correlation with treatment outcomes of DFU and DFO, and and its value as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of DFU and DFO.

Methods

156 T2DM patients with DFU (DFU group), 100 T2DM patients without DFU (T2DM group), and 100 healthy controls (NC group). The DFU group patients were subdivided into DFO (n = 80) and NDFO groups (n = 76). The level of serum 25(OH)VD was measured via chemiluminescence immunoassay, and T-VDR expression level was determined by quantitative real-time PCR.

Results

The levels of serum 25(OH)VD in the DFU group were significantly lower than the T2DM group [(10.3 (5.8, 18.7) vs 15.7 (8.6, 24.6) ng/mL, P = 0.002)]. Similarly, the levels of serum 25(OH)VD and T-VDR expression in the DFO group were statistically lower than the NDFO group [9.2 (5.2, 20.5) vs 12.8 (6.9, 22.1) ng/mL, P = 0.006)], [1.96 (0.61, 3.97) vs 3.11 (1.36, 5.11), P = 0.004)], respectively. Furthermore, the levels of serum 25(OH)VD and T-VDR expression in DFU patients were positively correlated with the ulcer healing rate of foot ulcer after 8 weeks of treatment ( P = 0.031, P = 0.016, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that low level of serum 25(OH)VD was an independent risk factor for DFU and DFO (ORDFU = 2.42, ORDFO = 3.05, P = 0.008, 0.001, respectively), and decreased T-VDR expression level was an independent risk factor for DFO (OR = 2.83, P = 0.004). Meanwhile, the ROC curve analysis indicated that the AUC of serum 25(OH)VD level for the diagnosis of DFU and DFO was 0.821 (95% CI, 0.754–0.886, P < 0.001) and 0.786 (95%CI, 0.643–0.867, P < 0.001), respectively. When establishing a diagnosis of DFO, the AUC of T-VDR expression level was 0.703 (95%CI: 0.618–0.853, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The levels of serum 25(OH)VD and T-VDR expression in DFU and DFO decreased. Serum 25(OH)VD and T-VDR are potentially valuable biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of DFU and DFO.

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Conjoined nerve root in a patient with lumbar disc herniation accompanied by a lumbosacral spine anomaly: a case report
Authors: Kuroki Hiroshi , Nagai Takuya
Published: February 2023

Background

A nerve root anomaly, typified by a conjoined nerve root, is a rare finding. Conjoined nerve root anomalies are easily missed even in preoperative advanced imaging modalities, which can be potentially troublesome during and after surgery. In this report, we present a case of conjoined right L5–S1 nerve root in a patient with lumbar disc herniation, accompanied by spina bifida occulta, which was undiagnosed on preoperative imaging studies.

Case report

A 55-year-old Asian (Japanese) woman presented with low back pain and right leg radiating pain due to lumbar disc herniation at the right L5/S1. Physical examination revealed a positive Lasègue sign and the range of the straight leg raising test was 20° on the right side. The right patellar tendon reflex was normal; however, the right ankle jerk reflex disappeared. Although no obvious hypoesthesia was noted, mild muscle weakness (4/5) was observed in the right leg on the manual muscle test. We planned the lumbar discectomy under a microscope. During surgery, the conjoined right L5–S1 nerve root, which was compressed by herniated nucleus pulposus, was encountered. Although it was very thick and less mobile, some pieces of herniated nucleus pulposus could be removed piece by piece from the axillary part. After sequential decompressive procedures, the tightness of the conjoined right L5–S1 nerve root decreased but its mobility did not improve much. The laterality of the thickness and exit angle of the conjoined right L5–S1 nerve root was retrospectively confirmed on T2 coronal magnetic resonance images and magnetic resonance neurography. Postoperatively, right leg pain was immediately alleviated and complete improvement of muscle weakness was achieved 1 week later (5/5).

Conclusions

Magnetic resonance neurography is extremely useful for the accurate diagnosis of anomalous nerve roots because of clear visualization of the neural tissue. Discectomy under a microscope, which enables magnified three-dimensional observation of the surgical field, must provide a valid and safe procedure to achieve not only secure resection of herniated discs but also adequate exposure of anomalous nerve roots.
Is cyberbullying perpetration associated with anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation among lebanese adolescents? Results from a cross-sectional study
Authors: Bitar Zeinab , Elias Marie-Belle , Malaeb Diana , Hallit Souheil , Obeid Sahar
Published: February 2023

Background

As cyberbullying is a new area of investigation, results worldwide point to the prevalence of cyberbullying perpetration. This study aimed to assess the association between cyberbullying perpetration, anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation among Lebanese adolescents.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted between May and June 2021 and included a sample of adolescents aged between 13 and 16 years old, recruited from private schools chosen in a convenient way from all Lebanese districts. A total of 520 students accepted to participate in our study. To collect data, a questionnaire was shared by google form including: Cyber Bully/Cyber victim questionnaire; Lebanese Anxiety Scale; and Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents.

Results

The results of the linear regressions, taking anxiety and depression as dependent variables, showed that female gender, having kind of hard and very/extremely hard influence of problems on daily work, sexual cyberbullying in cyberspace, embarrassing and inserting malicious content in cyberspace and older age were significantly associated with more anxiety and depression. Having kind of hard influence of problems on daily work compared to not at all, higher anxiety, higher depression and higher household crowding index (lower socioeconomic status) were significantly associated with higher odds of having suicidal ideation in the last month.

Conclusion

Cyberbullying perpetration and its associated factors reported in this study are significant enough to call for early detection and prevention strategies for Lebanese adolescents. At the school level, effective programs implemented in the school years are needed, aiming to develop social/emotional control, and conflict resolution skills as they might decrease engagement in cyberbullying perpetration among adolescents. Preventive interventions are needed to reduce the engagement of Lebanese adolescents in cyberbullying perpetration.
Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum contaminations in poultry eggs: molecular surveillance in three different geographical regions of Iran
Authors: Maani Salar , Solhjoo Kavous , Bagherzadeh Mohammad Aref , Bazmjoo Ahmadreza , Barnaaji Hooshmand Ghorbaani , Mir Hamed , Bahrami Fares , Khademi Seyedeh Zahra , Shams Morteza , Abdoli Amir , Ghaffarifar Fatemeh
Published: February 2023

Background

Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum are important protozoan parasites with worldwide distribution among warm-blooded animals. Moreover, T. gondii is a zoonotic parasite that infects humans. Poultries are important intermediated hosts of T. gondii and N. caninum. However, little is known about the contamination of poultry eggs with these parasites. We aimed to investigate the molecular frequency of T. gondii and N. caninum among the eggs of chicken, domestic duck, and quail from three different geographic regions of Iran. T. gondii and N. caninum were detected by PCR targeting the RE and Nc5 genes, respectively.

Findings

Overall contamination rates with T. gondii and N. caninum were 10.7 and 5.9%, respectively. The overall contamination rates of T. gondii among chicken, duck, and quail were 12.2, 15.5, and 4.4%, respectively; while N. caninum was detected in 11.1, 3.3, and 1.1% of the same samples, respectively. The contamination rates were increased with increasing humidity across three different regions.

Conclusions

Taken together, this study indicates the contamination of poultry eggs with T. gondii and N. caninum. The possibility of egg-born transmission of T. gondii should not be neglected by consuming raw soft-boiled eggs. Furthermore, contamination of poultry eggs could be an indicator for environmental contamination by these parasites.
Moving humanitarian-military relations forward: a new typology
Authors: Grace Rob , Alejandria Maria Carinnes , Bates Madison , Boland Samuel T. , Nylen Alexandria , Tayyeb Zein , Levine Adam C.
Published: February 2023

This article presents a new typology for humanitarian-military relations (HMR). This typology can serve as an analytical framework for assessing, during humanitarian emergencies, how civilian responders can and should engage with armed actors. The typology considers two factors: (1) the nature of crisis-affected population’s perceptions of an armed actor, and (2) the extent of alignment of civilian responders’ and armed actors’ interests and objectives. This typology is empirically rooted in an in-depth analysis of HMR across four humanitarian response contexts: (1) the Kivu Ebola Epidemic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, (2) the Rukban forced displacement crisis along the Jordan-Syria border, (3) the Taal volcano eruption in the Philippines, and (4) the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines. The analysis presented in this article is based on 175 qualitative interviews conducted with civilian responders, armed actors, and crisis-affected individuals across these contexts.
German translation of the PROMIS® pediatric anxiety, anger, depressive symptoms, fatigue, pain interference and peer relationships item banks
Authors: Devine J. , Kaman A. , Seum T. L. , Zoellner F. , Dabs M. , Ottova-Jordan V. , Schlepper L. K. , Haller A.-C. , Topf S. , Boecker M. , Schuchard J. , Forrest C. B. , Ravens-Sieberer Ulrike
Published: February 2023

Background

The present study aimed at the translation and cross-cultural adaptation of six PROMIS® pediatric self- and proxy- item banks and short forms to universal German: anxiety (ANX), anger (ANG), depressive symptoms (DEP), Fatigue (FAT), pain interference (P) and peer relationships (PR).

Methods

Using standardized methodology approved by the PROMIS Statistical Center and in line with recommendations of the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) PRO Translation Task Force, two translators for each German-speaking country (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) commented on and rated the translation difficulty and provided forward translations, followed by a review and reconciliation phase. An independent translator performed back translations, which were reviewed and harmonized. The items were tested in cognitive interviews with 58 children and adolescents from Germany (16), Austria (22), and Switzerland (20) for the self-report and 42 parents and other caregivers (Germany (12), Austria (17), and Switzerland (13)) for the proxy-report.

Results

Translators rated the translation difficulty of most items (95%) as easy or feasible. Pretesting showed that items of the universal German version were understood as they were intended, as only 14 out of 82 items of the self-report and 15 out of 82 items of the proxy-report versions required minor rewording. However, on average German translators rated the items more difficult to translate (M = 1.5, SD = 0.20) than the Austrian (M = 1.3, SD = 0.16) and the Swiss translators (M = 1.2, SD = 0.14) on a three-point Likert scale.

Conclusions

The translated German short forms are ready for use by researchers and clinicians (https://www.healthmeasures.net/search-view-measures).
NLRP3 inflammasome as a novel target for cystic fibrosis treatment
Authors: Atalay Merve , Şen Başak , Dayangaç Erden Didem
Published: February 2023

Background

Inflammasomes are intracellular multiprotein complexes that sense danger signals from damaged cells and pathogens and assemble to mediate caspase-1 activation, which results in the proteolytic cleavage of pro-IL-1β and IL-18 into bioactive forms. The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a critical component of the innate immune system that mediates caspase-1 activation and secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β/IL-18 in response to disturbances in cellular homeostasis caused by microbial infections and cellular damage.

Main body of abstract

The NLRP3 inflammasome is associated with various inflammatory disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. In recent years, NLRP3 inflammasome has also been implicated in inflammation in cystic fibrosis. The differentiation of pro-IL-1β–IL-1β, an active cytokine, is mediated by neutrophil expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Furthermore, it maintains a cytokine storm in the lungs during the pathogenesis of CF.

Short conclusion

This review highlights neutrophil metabolic reprogramming characterized by the Warburg effect, NLRP3-mediated inflammation in cystic fibrosis, and its inhibition as a potential therapeutic strategy.
Reprogramming of the gut microbiota following feralization in Sus scrofa
Authors: Petrelli Simona , Buglione Maria , Rivieccio Eleonora , Ricca Ezio , Baccigalupi Loredana , Scala Giovanni , Fulgione Domenico
Published: February 2023

Background

Wild boar has experienced several evolutionary trajectories from which domestic (under artificial selection) and the feral pig (under natural selection) originated. Strong adaptation deeply affects feral population’s morphology and physiology, including the microbiota community. The gut microbiota is generally recognized to play a crucial role in maintaining host health and metabolism. To date, it is unclear whether feral populations’ phylogeny, development stages or lifestyle have the greatest impact in shaping the gut microbiota, as well as how this can confer adaptability to new environments. Here, in order to deepen this point, we characterized the gut microbiota of feral population discriminating between juvenile and adult samples, and we compared it to the microbiota structure of wild boar and domestic pig as the references. Gut microbiota composition was estimated through the sequencing of the partial 16S rRNA gene by DNA metabarcoding and High Throughput Sequencing on DNA extracted from fecal samples.

Results

The comparison of microbiota communities among the three forms showed significant differences. The feral form seems to carry some bacteria of both domestic pigs, derived from its ancestral condition, and wild boars, probably as a sign of a recent re-adaptation strategy to the natural environment. In addition, interestingly, feral pigs show some exclusive bacterial taxa, also suggesting an innovative nature of the evolutionary trajectories and an ecological segregation in feral populations, as already observed for other traits.

Conclusions

The feral pig showed a significant change between juvenile and adult microbiota suggesting an influence of the wild environment in which these populations segregate. However, it is important to underline that we certainly cannot overlook that these variations in the structure of the microbiota also depended on the different development stages of the animal, which in fact influence the composition of the intestinal microbiota. Concluding, the feral pigs represent a new actor living in the same geographical space as the wild boars, in which its gut microbial structure suggests that it is mainly the result of environmental segregation, most different from its closest relative. This gives rise to interesting fields of exploration regarding the changed ecological complexity and the consequent evolutionary destiny of the animal communities involved in this phenomenon.
Feasibility of Magnetic Resonance–Compatible Accelerometers to Monitor Tremor Fluctuations During Magnetic Resonance–Guided Focused Ultrasound Thalamotomy: Technical Note
Authors: Baek Hongchae , Chen Jacqueline , Lockwood Daniel , Obusez Emmanuel , Poturalski Matthew , Nagel Sean J. , Jones Stephen E.
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND:

Magnetic resonance–guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) thalamotomy is used to treat essential tremor and tremor-dominant Parkinson disease. Feedback is collected throughout the procedure to verify the location of the target and completeness of response; however, variability in clinical judgments may underestimate or overestimate treatment response.

OBJECTIVE:

To objectively quantify joint motion after each sonication using accelerometers secured to the contralateral upper extremity in an effort to optimize MRgFUS treatment.

METHODS:

Before the procedure, 3 accelerometers were secured to the patient’s arm, forearm, and index finger. Throughout the procedure, tremor motion was regularly recorded during postural and kinetic tremor testing and individual joint angle measures were modeled. The joint angle from each accelerometer was compared with baseline measurements to assess changes in angles. Subsequent adjustments to the target location and sonication energy were made at the discretion of the neurosurgeon and neuroradiologist.

RESULTS:

Intraoperative accelerometer measurements of hand tremor from 18 patients provided quantified data regarding joint angle reduction: 87.3%, 94.2%, and 86.7% for signature writing, spiral drawing, and line drawing tests, respectively. Target adjustment based on accelerometer monitoring of the angle at each joint added substantial value toward achieving optimal tremor reduction.

CONCLUSION:

Real-time accelerometer recordings collected during MRgFUS thalamotomy offered objective quantification of changes in joint angle after each sonication, and these findings were consistent with clinical judgments of tremor response. These results suggest that this technique could be used for fine adjustment of the location of sonication energy and number of sonications to consistently achieve optimal tremor reduction.
Dual mechanism underlying failure of neural tube closure in the Zic2 mutant mouse
Authors: Escuin Sarah , Rose Raza-Knight Saba , Savery Dawn , Gaston-Massuet Carles , Galea Gabriel L. , Greene Nicholas D. E. , Copp Andrew J.
Published: February 2023

Understanding the molecular mechanisms that lead to birth defects is an important step towards improved primary prevention. Mouse embryos homozygous for the Kumba (Ku) mutant allele of Zic2 develop severe spina bifida with complete lack of dorsolateral hinge points (DLHPs) in the neuroepithelium. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signalling is overactivated in Zic2Ku/Ku embryos, and the BMP inhibitor dorsomorphin partially rescues neural tube closure in cultured embryos. RhoA signalling is also overactivated, with accumulation of actomyosin in the Zic2Ku/Ku neuroepithelium, and the myosin inhibitor Blebbistatin partially normalises neural tube closure. However, dorsomorphin and Blebbistatin differ in their effects at tissue and cellular levels: DLHP formation is rescued by dorsomorphin but not Blebbistatin, whereas abnormal accumulation of actomyosin is rescued by Blebbistatin but not dorsomorphin. These findings suggest a dual mechanism of spina bifida origin in Zic2Ku/Ku embryos: faulty BMP-dependent formation of DLHPs and RhoA-dependent F-actin accumulation in the neuroepithelium. Hence, we identify a multi-pathway origin of spina bifida in a mammalian system that may provide a developmental basis for understanding the corresponding multifactorial human defects.
LEARNING TASKS AND FEEDBACK IN COMPUTER-ASSISTED EDUCATIONAL SITUATIONS. NEW CHALLENGES FOR TEACHERS AS XXIST CENTURY PROFESSIONALS
Authors: Gabureanu Simona , Vasilescu Irina
Published: February 2023

Today, the professional of the education system is proactive, open to innovation, anchored in the technological, pedagogical and academic actualities, available to collaborating and sharing with colleagues. New environments, tools and ideas are emerging from enhanced and open education practices, and a series of new skills, both pedagogical and technological, is constantly brought up-front as a key enabler or integrator for the assembly of the new roles and tasks of today’s education practitioner. The paper approaches the changes of the technological and pedagogical frameworks, focusing on two basic elements of education practice: the learning task and the feedback, in the light of a computer-assisted language learning situation.
The focus is on specific computer-assisted language learning situations and learning materials that aim to foster the development of language in use. Communication skills in different communication contexts are developed through practice, rather than considering language as a formal system of signs and rules.
The use of language in real communicative situations should be the main goal of the second language learning, a more valuable goal than the ability to decode the language spontaneously. In this respect, the paper aims to present technological and pedagogical aspects on Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) and Intelligent Computer-Assisted Language Learning (ICALL), in order to help teachers to better exploit the opportunities offered by technology-enhanced language learning systems. The added value of the use of technology in language learning depends on teachers’ abilities to create appropriate learning materials and to integrate them in the second language class.
NEW WAYS OF LEARNING: SPAPS – A GAME FOR LEARNING MATHEMATICAL STATISTICS
Authors: Grosu Corina , Grosu Marta
Published: February 2023

The authors’ intention is to show that mathematical statistics can be learned by means of an adventure computer game. Probability and mathematical statistics provide students with the means for analyzing the environment, for establishing a mathematical model and for elaborating a prognosis. These 3 steps can be transformed in levels of a serious game. Thus, modeling reality while teaching probability and mathematical statistics can be done with a game called SPAPS, built by the authors in the Unity3d game engine. Objects, characters and some animations were realized by using Autodesk 3ds Max’ and Poser’s capabilities and Unity3d advanced capabilities. The GUI (graphical user interface) is that of an adventure game . The main characters of the game emerged from an opinion poll realized with a second year BA group of students. The theoretical background required for completing the levels of the game is the knowledge corresponding to a second year course in Probability and Statistics. Thus, each level requires: the knowledge of the main classical distribution laws; the estimation of the parameters for these laws corresponding to given statistical series; a deep understanding of the hypothesis tests involved in statistical modeling of the real world problems. It is a single player game and its various levels include a shooting game, a card playing game and a volcano explosion. The assets of the game include some theoretical material, but in order to successfully complete the game, the student has to rely on the knowledge acquired during university courses. A case study related to the actual testing of the game will be the object of a future coming paper.
CURRENT ISSUE OF MOTIVATION - IMPLICATIONS FOR A EDUCATION OF EXCELLENCE
Authors: Turturean Monica
Published: February 2023

Today’s world is facing many problems caused by the economic crisis leading thus to an education crisis. Witnessing major changes in the curricula, at different ways of assessment, at teaching and learning in transdiciplinary manner which took by surprise the students who, in turn, feel disarmed and unable to cope with these changes that take place in a very fast rate. Given that, if we want to provide an education of excellence, we have to know the student professional motivation, which determines them to obtain academic performance and to successfully cope with the challenges of knowledge-based society.
Motivation, in terms of academic performance, refers to indicators cognitive, emotional and behavioral involved in learning and education" (Tucker, Zayco, & Herman, 2002, p. 477). But it is verydifficult to discover what really motivates students to become performers. From this perspective, Tuckman (1999) presents a model of academic motivation that includes three motivational factors: 1. attitude or beliefof a person that he / she is able to achieve its goals: 2. desire to achieve goals, 3. strategies and techniques involved in achieving objectives.
Often, the motivation is conceived as a sequence of events, which consists of: attention, relevance, confidence and satisfaction-ARCS model (Keller, 2006, p. 12).
There was buit an Academic motivation Scale (Vallerand, 1995) to measure the intrinsic and the extrinsic motivation and the lack of students motivation.
In this context, we are interested in the form of motivation leads to success and, consequently, higher academic performance. In academic institutions, success involves, on the one hand, achieving the pre-established the goals and, on the other hand, adaptation to the demands of society that change continuosly.
FROM LINEAR TO NONLINEAR PHENOMENA THROUGH COMPUTER SIMULATION
Authors: Micescu Nicolae , Barna Emil stefan , Rusu Mircea victor
Published: February 2023

In order to better grasp the natural phenomena, we must recognize the roll of nonlinear effects as a major improvement for describing reality. Accordingly, we have as a purpose the development of a gradual introduction of the so-called “nonlinear dynamic systems” as a turning point for better understanding the nature. The true value of the computer approach is revealed for solving, modelling and/or simulating nonlinear phenomena. In order to do that, we will prepare a series of lectures and applications for different phenomena that are simple enough to understand but difficult to compute, in a gradual way. We will analyze a series of phenomena, and will develop an algorithm for computing or simulating them.
Also we intend to develop simple computer codes using computer languages that the students from high school learn. It will be also an application of their knowledge in programming.
The project also includes instructions for teaching as well as examples and proposes a thematic for further developments. It is not intended to fully develop all the phenomena, but to open a road that should be followed for all types of problems of main interest. Among these we can mention the following: oscillators of different kinds, linear, coupled, collection of oscillators, non-linear oscillators, damping and non-autonomous oscillators, exemplified by mechanic, electric or optical systems. We will also develop simulations for Verhulst dynamics, logistic developments, pray-predator systems and not only.
These themes bring together not only physics knowledge but also knowledge of biology, chemistry, and technology. The whole project involve a series of lectures based mainly on the Romanian curricula and on the textbooks that exist in the bookshops.
TRENDS AND DEVELOPMENTS IN LIFE LONG LEARNING SYSTEMS
Authors: Andronie Maria
Published: February 2023

Life long learning programs, are more and more a necessity than an option in today’s increasingly dynamic information society. Now, for an employed person to have a successfull career, in order to maintain or improve his position, regardless of the industry he is working in, it is not any more enough to finish university studies at a reputable learning institution. Taking into account the increasing rate of the changes we are witnessing, it becomes more and more important for that person to continue the studies after graduating, for the rest of the active career, this being the only reasonable way one can keep up to date with all the technological advances that are taking place.
Until recently the access to learning resources was limited to those who had the time to attend classical study programs such as those offered by universities, spending considerrable time and effort to learn using traditional means, usualy in campuses. The rapid changes brought by technology advances came also with advantages that past generations did not benefit from. Today, with the emergence of multimedia and communication technologies, the concept of life long learning has become virtually applicable to all those interested in developing their own career. The widespread use of computers and communication technologies have caused the emergence of new ways to provide support and information to those who want to learn from a distance. Now, more than ever before, for a student it is possible to study without being at the same place in the same time with the teacher, having comparable or even better results than those studying in the traditional manner.
E- LEARNING, AS PART OF OPEN DISTANCE LEARNING
Authors: Andronie Maria
Published: February 2023

Open distance learning, a type of learning that was used for a long period of time by universities and other learning institutions, has finally developed into an efficient learning solution, by the intensive use of modern learning systems based on the information and communication technologies, also being referred as e- learning.
In present, open distance learning can not be conceived without the use modern e- learning technologies, these two terms being highly correlated. Information and communication technologies, by the use of computers and mass media, made open distance learning as efficient, or even better than most of the traditional learning methods. The distance between the teacher and the students becomes now irrelevant, the way an e- learning course is written having now a much greater importance.
For all this reasons, the teachers that intend to develop an e- learning course must follow a certain pattern if they want to obtain the best efficiency. The use of multimedia and internet is the main cause of the differences between a traditional course and an e- learning based course that is developed for open distance learning. Teachers and course developers must be able to transmit useful knowledge to students in the most efficient way by these means and substitute the absence of traditional classes. The students must be guided through the course contents interactively, so they can learn and develop the required abilities. Once the above mentioned barriers are overcame, e- learning based open distance learning brings a number of advantages to those that take part in the learning processes.
DEVELOPMENT OF A NATURAL USER INTERFACE FOR INTUITIVE PRESENTATIONS IN EDUCATIONAL PROCESS
Authors: Butnariu Silviu , Girbacia Florin
Published: February 2023

In the educational process, the support for the presentations displayed at courses, seminars and laboratory hours are the PowerPoint slides. Usually, a simple on-screen slide is not enough for students to understand complex information, requiring additions like verbal explanations and sometimes, to complete the presentation, there are needed drawings, sketches, charts, flowcharts or arrows.
To create a presentation, there are used various methods today, from the simplest ones (projecting the slides on the whiteboard and the usage of water-based markers to overwrite) to some more complex, like using interactive whiteboards which can be written directly with special pens.
However, there are cases when the screen size is too large and the reader is not even near it. The same thing happens when there is not used a projection screen and the presentation is displayed on a white wall. In these cases, it is required a new approach for teaching methods, especially for emphasize and addition of information in real time.
This paper presents the new methodology for using a Natural User Interface (NUI) dedicated device (e.g. Microsoft Kinect) in PowerPoint presentations, considering the following actions: achieving additions and changes in real time, on the same screen with the PowerPoint presentation. Kinect is a peripheral low-cost device that allows users to interact with data, using body gestures and voice commands.
We propose a series of intuitive NUI actions based on body postures, gestures and voice commands used to make additions to the classical presentation such as underline, highlight, drawings, diagrams, various smart-arts. The GUI of the developed program is similar to the one of the classical Windows Paint program. There were performed tests and calibration of equipment, in order to modify / correct the positions / movements attached to each action.
The advantage of the developed application is the usage of low cost equipment to create an intuitive human computer interface that improves the traditional presentations.
COMPUTER GAMES USED IN TEACHING OF GEOGRAPHY
Authors: Sabo Helena maria
Published: February 2023

Abstract: School as a starting environment for young people for life, is obliged to show receptive to innovations in technology. Using the latest techniques for teaching is designed to facilitate learning, but also to familiarize them with the tools, which will be used widely in the near future.
Computer games nowadays have become very popular among children. Many of them spend few hours per day playing. Depending on type, computer games could have positive or negative effects on children. Accepting the fact that children like to play video games, a good teacher can use these games for increasing motivation and learning results.
It is important that children, especially those living on a risk area, learn about natural hazards and how to prevent their negative effects. Playing computer games specialized on this topic could be an attractive way of learning about risk management.
In this article, we present some computer games, which are attractive to children, using concrete applications about natural hazards and urban planning. Risk management games are very helpful tot each pupils how to protect themselves against the destruction power of natural hazards. Playing these games pupils learn how to manage the risk in case of a natural hazards, and they will have some knowledge about how to plan a city, how to develop it. The focus is on the presentation of the OIKOS risk management game. This game is considered very important in teaching geography; this is also an important aspect: sometimes we take decisions without thinking of the future. In this way, it follows the formation of a factor of environment awareness and responsibilities.
Despite numerous advantages, the possibility of using modern technical means in education is very limited because most units do not have educational interactive board, and in places were this boards exist their number is reduced. This is explained by the relatively high costs of all equipment necessary for the operation, but also from news reluctance technology.
MODELS ROLE OF INTERACTIVE LESSONS IN PHYSICAL TRAINING
Authors: Stefanescu Valeriu
Published: February 2023

Placing computers in all fields influenced the education system. For students to be prepared to work in a computerized society, they must learn to use this technique.Computer utilization and application of new technology strategies based in teaching about educational activities contribute to the development of organizational forms of training that are not possible with traditional means and methods. Computer processing capabilities, recording and retrieving information for introducing situations in which the student acquires the knowledge and skills in an autonomous manner, in accordance with their interests and aspirations Possibilities of computer processing, recording and retrieval of information triggers the situations in which the student acquires knowledge and skills independently, in accordance with the interests and aspirations. Multimedia lessons suggested processes for various disciplines is a way of learning which involves understanding and explaining the content, but above all, a mechanism of formation of critical thinking. Information is presented so that incentives and open alternative interpretations, is a tool for the formation of skills, values and attitudes. Impact studies conducted on the occasion of introduction of various types of educational software in schools demonstrates their utility is designed specifically to students' learning progress, with comparable results, regardless of their initial level.
The study of physics can be achieved through methodological diversity. PC penetration in the class allowed appeal through IAC (computer assistedinstruction),the simulation software (interactive model), which proved to be particularly useful in studying this subject as interactive simulation, modeling, visualization in scientific, is a way to get image and study designs, processes or phenomena inaccessible to direct observation.
AN ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF E-LEARNING IN CORPORATE TRAINING PROGRAMS
Authors: Alraddadi Dr. abdulaziz , Eid Emad el din
Published: February 2023

There is an disagreement that traditional learning is the best way of maintaining a learning process. Other models are always considered to be lower or less efficient. There is no finding to support this argument, and research shows that eLearning models are at least as good as traditional learning. Therefore, the eLearning includes advantages which are not found in traditional learning, such as: time for digesting the information and responding, enhanced communication among the learners, both as regards quality and as regards urgency, knowledge being acquired and transferred among the learners themselves, the ability to conduct an open discussion, where each learner gets more of an equal standing than in a face-to-face discussion, access to information and to discussion ability, responses may be made around the clock with no restrictions, a higher motivation and involvement in the process on the part of the learners Most corporations are constantly looking for less cost methods to deliver training to their participants with possible maximum quality. E-learning is less expensive than traditional classroom instruction, but the quality to deliver training most often is degraded. Achieving both of the two objectives namely, cost and quality is not an easy task since the two objectives are conflicting to each other. Indeed, selecting E-learning or traditional classroom or mixed of them should be based on some criteria. An investigation and analysis to deliver training is made in order to deliver training in an optimized cost and quality according to the criteria set that can be determined in this study.
LEARNING CAM –COMPUTER AIDED MANUFACTURING –SKILLS AND COMPETENCE
Authors: But Adrian , But Eniko
Published: February 2023

The first step to achieve performance in production area, consist in providing the infrastructure.
This means new Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine-tools, strong Computer Aided Design (CAD) software’s and Computer Aided Manufacturing ( CAM) software’s.
But all this, without the detailed knowledge of the machine tools, the software programming capabilities, will not achieve the expected profitability.
In this paper are covered the basic steps in a computer-assisted programming CNC machine tools. It focuses how the information’s are transferred to someone who wants to learn, the way haw was checked the assimilated knowledge by the trainees. All are customized using a CAD / CAM software implemented in our university.
Is underline the CAM software capabilities in educational CNC training applications with interactive communication between user and computer, with test and technical suggestions.
Are treated carefully in which ways the information\\\\\\\'s are transmitted but is important too, their succession .
Are highlighted the advantages of visual impact of technical processes simulation as a way to attract attention of the auditors and in the same time, to complete the technical information\\\\\\\'s who was transmitted in the training process.
Was presented the CNC TRAINING CENTER from Timisoara, with his three important divisions : CAD/CAM department, CNC simulation and virtual operating area and the workshop with real CNC machine tools, lathe and milling.
With all this three entities was possible to analyze and to go through each stage of the product life : design assisted by computer, computer aided manufacturing and processing on real machine tools.