bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THEORETICAL RESEARCHES OF THE EMBEDDED FIBER-OPTIC SYSTEM OF TESTING DEFORMATION AND TEMPERATURE OF POLYMER COMPOSITES
Authors: Fedotov M. Yu.
Published: November 2023

This article describes the results of theoretical researches of the system of optical testing of polymer composites by the method of two optical fibers with different sensitivity to deformation and temperature, using integrated arrays of fiber Bragg gratings. The features of the primary data processing from the optical testing system embedded into the composite are considered by the methods of weighted arithmetic mean and approximation by the Gaussian function. The basic relations for calculating the error in determining the temperature and strain with the help of fiber-optic embedded testing systems are obtained. A numerical model of the interrogator has been constructed, which makes it possible to estimate the systematic error of deformation and temperature measurements, including taking into account the noise of a real interrogator. It is shown that, taking into account a number of assumptions for the problem of simultaneous embedded testing of composites with fiber Bragg gratings, it is advisable to apply he method of primary processing of testing data using the approximation of the real spectra of fiber Bragg gratings by the Gaussian function, while in order to increase the reliability of testing, it is necessary to take into account the temperature correction characteristic of a particular interrogating device.
DEVELOPMENT OF ULTRASONIC SPRAYER FOR AIRCRAFT OILS ANALYSIS BY MICROWAWE PLASMA COMPLEX
Authors: Drokov V. G. , Drokov V. V. , Kazmirov A. D. , Karaseva E. N. , Muryshchenko V. V. , Skudaev Yu. D.
Published: November 2023

One of the critical components of microwave plasma complex, which determines metrological and diagnostic parameters of the appliance, is a device for ultrasonic atomization and supply of a lubricating oil sample to spectra excitation source (SES). The main problem was the development of atomizer construct, which makes it possible to increase its resource for failure and reduce influence associated with the brand of analyzed lubricating aviation oils on size of sol droplets. The article presents requirements for the parameters of generated sol sputtering system during microwave plasma measurements, and also describes the search for the optimal sputter construct. Several constructs of ultrasonic nebulizers have been analyzed using the ANSYS 19.0 academic software package. The proposed construct is based on the principle of double spraying. An assessment of the effect of lubricating oil viscosity on the size of sol droplets was carried out and a method was described to reduce this effect.
IMPLEMENTATION PECULIARITIES OF METHOD FOR LITHIUM BATTERIES TECHNICAL STATE MONITORING BASED ON ANALYSIS OF RELAXATION PROCESSES CAUSED BY LOAD VARIATIONS
Authors: Denisov E. S. , Nikishina G. V. , Eniliev R. R. , Nikishin T. P.
Published: November 2023

The paper describes a technique for estimating the parameters of the second-order electrical model of lithium battery (LB), based on the analysis of its response to a step-like load change. The advantage of this approach is the implementation with simple and compact measuring equipment. Taking into account the limitations for the maximum LB load, the solution of a system of nonlinear equations when estimating the model parameters can be reduced to solving a system of linear algebraic equations. This finding makes it possible to implement the approach with inexpensive general-purpose microcontrollers. Thus, the paper proposes a method for reducing computational costs, which consists in sequential fitting of experimental relaxation curves with two single-exponential models instead of using a complex two-exponential model. It provides more than twofold reduction in the time for identifying the parameters of the LB’s electrical model. The experimental studies show that the obtained dependences of the equivalent circuit parameters can be explained by the general properties of physicochemical reactions occurring in LB. From a practical point of view, the proposed method has great advantages. First, it has better time localization compared to electrochemical impedance spectrometry. This advantage is especially important for LB due to the effect of the discharge processes on the results. In addition, the response time of diagnostic systems is significantly reduced. Secondly, the proposed method requires simpler and more inexpensive test equipment, which potentially makes it possible to integrate controls into the LB at the manufacturing and exploitation stages.
DEVELOPMENT OF AN AUTOMATED SYSTEM FOR INPUT TESTING AND DIAGNOSTICS OF CU/TI RODS
Authors: Bondarenkо P. N. , Lavrov A. A. , Lupin A. V. , Potysev S. A. , Khafizov D. I. , Yusupova D. R.
Published: November 2023

The article presents the results of the development and testing of an automatic installation designed to diagnose (classify) defects of Cu/Ti rods (electrodes) widely used as current conductors in electroplating and chemical production. It is shown that the introduction of such an installation using one of the methods of non-destructive testing allows, on average, to reduce the diagnostic time by an order of magnitude compared to the option if the necessary actions were performed manually. To create an automated system based on the installation, modern electromechanical, electronic and computing tools have been used, which allow almost completely automating the diagnostic process from taking the necessary measurements, filtering data, displaying them in the form of graphs and tables, as well as classifying defects at the last stage using a neural network. According to the tests carried out, it was shown that the classification accuracy was at least 93 %.
Malicious Game
Authors: Sheldon Zachary
Published: November 2023

In the late-night cafés of Amman, Jordan, Iraqi refugees have adopted a new game, called jaakaaroo, that they say is more “malicious” than familiar favorites like dominoes or backgammon. Meanwhile, they decry the cruelty, greed, and suspicion that have eroded social bonds in their home and host countries. Borrowing concepts from Arabic philosophy, I argue that the formal routines of the game act on the same faculty of estimation (al-wahm) that migrants use to read strangers’ intentions while disguising their own. When this sense of suspicion emanates from the ingenious device of the game itself, which I theorize as a form of agent intellect (al-‘aql al-faa‘il), new and troubling feelings come to be absorbed within the broader aesthetic assemblage of teahouse sociality. In these spaces, the harshness of the present becomes enfolded within nostalgic routines—a creative act of solidarity that exceeds binary tropes of hope and uncertainty.
Human Routers
Authors: Zuntz Ann-Christin
Published: November 2023

Syrian refugees resort to a rich ecosystem of brokers who not only facilitate border crossings but also move remittances, jobs, knowledge, wives, and more. How are refugees’ circulations made possible, and by whom? Drawing on fieldwork with Syrian brokers in Turkey and the United Kingdom, I put forward the novel concepts of a Syrian infrastructure of displacement and of refugee brokers as a particular infrastructural component, namely, as human routers. Like routers, brokers manage, direct, and control resource flows. Revisiting Julia Elyachar’s concept of communicative channels, I contend that refugee brokers and their clients rely on such pre-existing connections, built on shared experiences of migration, brokerage, and hospitality. Reactivated in exile through brokers’ performances of “Syrianness,” these channels facilitate a shared sense of belonging needed for their business transactions. The ways in which refugee brokers slip seamlessly between business, charitable deeds, and exploitation challenge the abstract ideas of disinterested solidarity that underpin mainstream humanitarianism.
Methods of Spatial Analysis: Possibilities for Assessing the Market Value of Real Estate
Authors:   Moscow State University of Geodesy and Cartography, Shalagin Alexey , Tesalovsky Andrey ,   Vologda State University
Published: November 2023

The work attempts to apply spatial analysis methods within the framework of a comparative approach to assessing the market value of real estate. According to information (on the market value of the property specified in the advertisement for sale, its area, latitude and longitude, the market value of one square meter), collected from open sources, about 3,923 one-room apartments in St. Petersburg that were on sale at as of March 2023, a database has been formed on the basis of which, using a multifunctional geographic information system, a digital relief model has been built – a model of a regular network of heights – and a map of the distribution of real estate across city districts with equal intervals of the market value of one square meter has been compiled. For 150 one-room apartments (corresponding to the specified parameters), information for which was not included in the original database, the market value of one square meter was assessed using the constructed digital model. The difference between the calculated values and the market value indicated in advertisements for the sale of apartments, in relative terms, varies from ?9.9 to 8.1%. The mathematical expectation of the measurement difference is 1.89%, and the standard deviation is 4.11%. According to the authors, the method of constructing a digital relief model, in particular a regular network of heights, can be used as part of the implementation of a comparative approach to the assessment of real estate objects when solving applied problems by subjects of valuation detail
Pertambahan Bobot Tubuh, Panjang Tubuh dan Tinggi Tubuh Ikan Nila Merah (Oreochromis niloticus) yang Dipelihara Pada Aerasi dan Padat Tebar Berbeda
Authors: Djaelani Muhammad Anwar , Kasiyati Kasiyati , Sunarno Sunarno
Published: November 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh aerasi dan padat tebar terhadap pertambahan bobot tubuh, panjang tubuh dan tinggi tubuh ikan nila merah (Oreochromis niloticus).  Penelitian ini menggunakan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) faktorial dengan dua perlakuan, terdiri atas perlakuan kelompok dilengkapi dengan satu aerator dan perlakuan kelompok dilengkapi dengan dua aerator serta tiga tingkatan padat tebar 2,4,8 ekor ikan. Pada padat tebar normal sebanyak 2 ekor ikan nila merah dengan berat 17±1,6 g dipelihara dalam kontainer boks kapasitas 40 liter yang diisi air sebanyak 34 liter. Ikan dipelihara selama 2 bulan. Variabel yang diamati pada penelitian ini adalah pertambahan bobot tubuh, panjang tubuh dan tinggi tubuh ikan nila. Faktor lingkungan yang diamati pada penelitian ini meliputi Oksigen terlarut (DO), pH, suhu, kandungan ammonia, nitrit dan nitrat. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa pemeliharaan ikan nila merah dengan penambahan aerator berpengaruh nyata (P<0,05) terhadap pertambahan bobot tubuh, panjang tubuh dan tinggi tubuh ikan nila merah. This study aims to determine the effect of aeration and stocking density on body weight gain, body length and body height of red tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). This study used a factorial completely randomized design (CRD) with two treatments, consisting of a group treatment equipped with one aerator and a group treatment equipped with two aerators and three levels of stocking density of 2,4,8 fish. At normal stocking densities, 2 red tilapia weighing 17 ± 1.6 g were reared in a 40 liter capacity box filled with 34 liters of water. Fish kept for 2 months. The variables observed in this study were the increase in body weight, body length and body height of tilapia fish. Environmental factors observed in this study include dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, temperature, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate content. The results of this study indicated that rearing red tilapia with the addition of an aerator had a significant (P<0.05) effect on body weight gain, body length and body height of red tilapia.
Understanding the impact of ChatGPT in education
Authors: Thong Chee Ling , Butson Russell , Lim WeiLee
Published: November 2023

With the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational settings, particularly the integration of tools like ChatGPT, research on the impact of ChatGPT in education becomes a critical and timely endeavor, especially when it includes insights from students rather than just teachers. This exploratory study aims to examine students’ attitudes, perceptions, and ethical concerns towards AI integration in learning environments by directly engaging 60 students from diverse geographical regions and educational background.  The sample includes students from urban higher education and suburban high school. The study is founded on a quantitative research design and cross-sectional survey methodology. The findings reveal a clear digital divide in AI usage, with urban students demonstrating more engagement with ChatGPT for educational purposes than their suburban counterparts, thereby unveiling an underlying disparity in technological access. Ambiguity prevails among students about distinct functionalities and benefits of AI language models like ChatGPT, hinting at the need for clearer elucidation of AI’s unique capabilities. Ethical concerns also emerge, especially regarding AI accuracy and the potential for misuse leading to a decline in critical thinking skills. However, despite these challenges, students generally express optimism about the future refinement and widespread application of ChatGPT. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of promoting digital inclusivity, establishing clear ethical guidelines, and striving for continuous improvements in AI accuracy, all while maintaining student-centric approach. Future direction suggests a focus on enhancing digital inclusivity, ethical considerations, AI accuracy and educational strategies around unique functionalities of AI tools.
Behavioural insights for better teaching and learning
Authors: Garivaldis Filia
Published: November 2023

A persisting assumption in education is that students have the same passion and motivation to learn that educators have to teach.
This assumption can lead to the use of a familiar but narrow set of solutions for addressing teaching and learning challenges. However, there are many barriers students face when attempting to engage fully with their courses or units of study, that are seldom addressed by educators. Behavioural science can offer valuable insights into addressing such barriers. From understanding students and the context of their learning better, to designing pedagogical methods better aligned with these needs, behavioural science can help create targeted solutions to the ongoing challenges experienced in the field of education. In this workshop, we offer a range of practical and theoretical examples from the area of behavioural science, that challenge the assumption that providing access to learning material is enough. We also draw on the expertise of educators and scholars in higher education, to brainstorm solutions, beyond just the use of pedagogy, that can address some of these challenges.
Towards meaning-making with interactive visualisations
Authors: Canizares Miguel , Gibson Andrew , Lovell David , Willis Jill
Published: November 2023

Learning analytics systems often use interactive visualisations to display information. Interactivity is typically used by visualisation designers to reduce cognitive load for users. However, our research suggests that interactivity holds significant value beyond the reduction of cognitive load. Informed by theories about meaning, perception and experience, we propose that interactive visualisations promote emergent meaning-making processes which should be accounted for in the design of interactive learning analytics visualisations. We present findings from a qualitative study of four teachers engaging with interactive visualisations in an Australian university. The study used a think-a-loud protocol and a semi-structured interview which were coded according to theory-informed constructs of dimensions of meaning and interaction opportunities. Our findings suggest that interactive visualisations that had been designed with regard to meaning-making stimulated users to engage more deeply with the data and explore it at different resolutions, from overview to detail. The interactive visualisations afforded more opportunities for users to gain understanding and insights they found meaningful. While this is a small study, we argue that it opens up promising avenues for further investigation; provides a practical approach to gather further useful data about interactivity and meaning-making; and suggests new principles that may be helpful for designers of interactive learning analytics visualisations.
A proposal to include Maori perspectives in AIed
Authors: Koh Josiah , Tuazon Gerson
Published: November 2023

This paper aims to explore the importance of M?ori perspectives in AI in education (AIed) development, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and cultural responsiveness. It highlights the underrepresentation of indigenous voices in shaping emerging technologies and proposes a framework for incorporating M?ori knowledge and perspectives in AI systems. By recognizing and valuing cultural diversity, we can work towards a more equitable and inclusive future in AI education, minimizing biases and inequities. The framework can then be translated into actionable steps to ensure indigenous voices are heard and incorporated in the design and implementation of AI technologies.
Unpacking Contrary Conceptions of Digital Literacy Across a Higher Education Landscape
Authors: Sim Kwong Nui , Orlando Joanne , Cowling Michael
Published: November 2023

The higher education sector is changing, driven by a post-pandemic push to a more digital focused model of delivery. Whilst this change was coming before the pandemic, COVID-19 has put the need for a better understanding of digital approaches in stark relief, as individuals could no longer meet face-to-face. And yet, our perceptions of digital literacy (competency and skills) remains limited, with literature suggesting that even the use of the term ‘digital literacy’ is diverse. This paper aims to conduct a review that positions these terms more clearly with their associated stakeholders. Using a defined systematic review methodology based on Lateral, this paper identifies a disconnect between stakeholder perceptions, particularly academics and their students, as well as influences felt by the pandemic. Through this work, we aim to lay a foundation for future research in the educational technology domain, understanding these contrary conceptions and how they may be resolved.
Active and online
Authors: Wilson Stephanie , Wardak Dewa , Vallis Carmen , Huber Elaine
Published: November 2023

Much of the literature on flipped classrooms emphasises the physical classroom as the primary site for active learning, relegating the online environment to a place where content is delivered prior to students attending a workshop or tutorial. However, researchers have highlighted the rich opportunities for embedding interactivity in the online space and demonstrated positive impacts on the student experience. In this paper we discuss how interactivity was embedded in self-paced online modules as part of the redesign of three large courses at The University of Sydney Business School. In these courses, lectures were replaced with weekly, self-paced, media-rich online modules involving opportunities for active learning and immediate feedback. Course developments and impacts on student experience are presented through three mini case studies underpinned by evaluation embedded in a design-based research approach. The developments were conducted as part of a major strategic educational project in the Business School called Connected Learning at Scale (CLaS).
Digital facelift
Authors: Britton Boyd , Vallis Carmen
Published: November 2023

The rapid development and proliferation of synthetic media and AI-generated avatars present both challenges and opportunities for higher education. Increasingly, educational institutions must navigate complex ethical and pedagogical considerations, as well as adapt to the latest AI technologies (Siemens et al., 2022). Ethical and pedagogical principles to guide AI use are urgently needed in education (Bozkurt et al., 2021).
 
In this presentation, we share a practical perspective, framed by a specific case-study: the development and implementation of a large-scale, interactive business module featuring AI-generated ‘Guest Lecturers’ The AI-generated video content, along with other online activities, were designed to stimulate critical reflection and discussion about the ethical implications of AI in business. Now in its second iteration, the project represents a significant trial and evaluation of synthetic media to present educational concepts in a cohort of over 700 students.
 
Fundamental ethical and pedagogical questions surfaced during the development and implementation of this learning media. How transparent should educators be about the processes and tools they adopt in producing content, for example (Pataranutaporn et al., 2021)? When does human presence add value in recorded video, be it in a pedagogical or parasocial sense (Beege et al., 2019)? And what forms of learning might benefit (or not) from automating video content (Li et al., 2016)? Based on evaluation data from focus groups and video analytics, we explore these questions and the potential affordances and limitations of synthetic media. We also reflect on the tools and techniques that were used to create the project, and implications for educational institutions as they seek to build capacity for AI content creation within traditional production ecosystems.
 
An emergent typology for AI in educational media is explored, to help educators design for teaching and learning based on learning purposes and modes of delivery. Finally, we discuss how student feedback might inform the design, production and delivery of learning media, and future directions for student co-creation and agency.
Dismantling the education exclusion zone
Authors: Barber Ash
Published: November 2023

Traditional textbook publishing magnifies some voices while silencing others, pushing consistently marginalised groups into an education exclusion zone. Open educational resources (OER) purportedly address this problem; however, without adequate guidance on inclusive design, OER fail to rise to the challenge. This paper undertakes an exploratory initial review of EmpoweredOER, a practical tool in first-phase iterative development, designed to unpack the complexities of inclusive OER. Emerging from a grant-funded international study tour, three best practice themes informed the design of EmpoweredOER: true accessibility, beyond technological; universal design for learning and inclusive open education nexus; and diverse perspectives and representation. Initial findings indicate EmpoweredOER meets its objective. Future research will analyse the impact and growth of EmpoweredOER as it matures.

Implications for practice:

There is appetite to dedicate further resources to developing inclusive OER tools.

Advocates can instill a sense of community in their resources for increased engagement.

Resource creators should incorporate interactivity and adaptability for greater contextualisation.
The LMS in the age of Generative AI
Authors: Doherty Iain , Willems Julie , Huijser Henk , Bussey Francesca
Published: November 2023

Whilst Covid-19 raised a range of questions about the utility of the Learning Management System (LMS) and other technologies for teaching and learning, the advent of Generative AI (GenAI) poses new and fundamental questions about the teaching and learning technology ecosystem of our universities. We argue that these questions extend beyond the impact of GenAI on student learning, the assessment of students and academic integrity. Rather, the impact of GenAI on higher education represents a threshold concept that, once grasped, will entail a paradigm shift in the sector’s self-understanding.
Supporting hybrid engagement through digital learning design
Authors: White Pennie , Huang Vicki , Campanale Naomi
Published: November 2023

With the shift to post-pandemic flexible delivery there is an increased focus on the quality of online learning materials. In response to this, a project was undertaken to transform online law units sites from pdfs to interactive pages; and from 2-hour lectures to multiple short pre-recordings dedicated to a single concept. This study explored student engagement, preferences, and performance through a pragmatic and meaningful analysis of learning analytics in relation to learning design for the purpose of informing our practice. This paper draws on data involving 89 students that participated in the study from the cohort of approximately 200 students. This study  confirms that the majority of students preferred the new digital learning design approach, however, the diversity of student preferences has implications for learning design that need to be taken into consideration.
Affecting culture change
Authors: Chen Matt , Yench Emma , Abramson Phillip
Published: November 2023

Since November 2021 the Faculty of Information Technology, Monash University has been engaged in a significant large-scale Education Transformation Project with the intention to reshape and reinvigorate the way teaching teams educate, interact with, and prepare students for the future. The goal is to transform Education programs in order to engage students in active learning experiences that encourage deeper learning, prepare students for the workplace through authentic assessment, and build connection and belonging within the community of staff and adult students. This paper reports on the work done to date, reflects on our experiences and learnings, and outlines the plan for the work yet to come. The purpose of this paper is to shine a light on a project in progress as a conversation starter and reference for other colleagues planning a similar project.
Evaluating students’ experience of simulation technology in an Australian initial teacher education program
Authors: Spray Erika , Kett Natasha , Rutherford Nate
Published: November 2023

International research illustrates the effectiveness of simulation in professional education. For pre-service teachers, such technology offers the ability to contextualise pedagogy and curriculum within the complexity of the classroom environment. Novice practitioners benefit from developing decision-making skills in a risk-free context, whilst receiving immediate feedback on their performance. The University of Newcastle has therefore embedded simSchool, a virtual classroom gaming platform) in its undergraduate teacher education programs. This paper reports pre-service teaching students’ sense of teacher efficacy before and after using simSchool, based on students’ responses to surveys before (n. 398) and after (n. 233) use of the technology. Analysis examined changes in teacher efficacy, as well as potential differences between students based on previous experience. Results will form the basis for more informed integration of simulation technology, and more targeted support for students to optimise their experience and learning.
Re-imagining women’s leadership in the third-space
Authors: Hinze Meredith , Rokvic Benedicte , Kelly Oriel , Whitechurch Scarlett , Bennett Miriam
Published: November 2023

The role of the third space woman leader is a blurry one (Denney, 2021). While making a difference for students is at the heart of our work, creating and leading teams in a direction often not of our choosing and from a position that crosses many boundaries is a challenge and is often invisible or unrecognized (Tay, Huijser, Dart, & Cathcart, 2023). 

 

No two third space women leaders arrived in this role by the same path, but all have a diverse range of skills and personal attributes to draw upon – formal qualifications, teaching experience, technical skills and experience, growth mindsets, resilience, flexibility, creativity and not afraid of change. Yet there is no model of leadership that encapsulates this eclectic range of personal expertise which enables us to work with a diverse range of people and varying digital fluencies in the tertiary teaching and learning space.

 

We therefore propose a new model of leadership for women working in professional staff third or liminal space roles (Loftus, 2018). A model which moves away from Servant Leadership (Smith, 2005), one of invisibility, nudging, persuading, to a more visible form of leadership - leading change from the front as well as alongside others in partnerships.  A coaching and leadership style which empowers others and ourselves by flipping perceived weaknesses (no PhD, casual contracts, imposter syndrome, inability to articulate our own worth) highlights our strengths (our passion, our empathy, our problem solving ability, our practical and technical skills), diminishes the threats (seen as a support or an admin role in the rapidly changing digital landscape) and raises the importance and credibility (Kouzes & Posner, 2007) of the role and the work that we do promoting and enhancing digital pedagogy in higher education. It is precisely the work undertaken as third space professionals: implementing strategy as agents of change, working effectively with diverse people and disciplines, that develops the skills required to be leaders in higher education today (Denney, 2022, pp11; Pontefract, 2104 as cited in Loftus, 2018).

 

The proposed model highlights the value we bring to our institutions and pinpoints where we can and should take the lead in designing and supporting digital pedagogy. The model also benefits those women in and aspiring to be in leadership by illustrating that the strengths and opportunities as well as perceived threats and weaknesses of the third space female professional, place us well for contemporary leadership in higher education.

 

This digital poster will be interactive, inviting other women leaders to reflect on their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats and to contribute to our model.
Frenemies - Unleashing the Power of ChatGPT in Assessments
Authors: Wysel Matthew
Published: November 2023

This paper deals with the educational necessity of collaborative learning and individual assessment. Historically, communication-based inefficiencies in student collaboration supported individual assessment but increasingly content creation technologies are both overcoming these inefficiencies and enabling students to collaborate during assessments. The rapid proliferation in the adoption of Generative AI packages such as ChatGPT is accelerating these challenges faster than universities can respond. This paper presents five, scaffolding assessment designs that are currently being piloted within graduate and undergraduate university classes. Crucially each strategy is predicated on the readily achievable - if scary - notion that authentic assessment and Generative AI services can be frenemies. Strategies covering extension across a range of quantitative and qualitative classes are detailed. Preliminary findings and 'next steps' are presented.
Adipose inflammation: South Asian ethnicity and central obesity are independently associated with higher immune cell recruitment to adipose‐specific media: A pilot study in men
Authors: Roberts Matthew J. , Hamrouni Malik , Wadley Alex J. , Bishop Nicolette C.
Published: November 2023

A South Asian (SA) cardiovascular phenomenon exists whereby SAs have excess burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) despite having low prevalence of recognized CVD risk factors. The aim of the current study was to determine whether perturbations in monocyte biology contribute to this phenomenon via higher circulating cell numbers, a more pro‐inflammatory phenotype, and higher transmigration and adhesion. Adhesion is linked to vascular inflammation whereas transmigration is linked to tissue inflammation. SA men with (N = 10; SAs with central obesity [CO‐SA]) and without (N = 10; lean SA [LE‐SA]) central obesity, plus White European counterparts (N = 10; white Europeans with central obesity [CO‐WE], N = 10; lean white Europeans [LE‐WE]) participated. An ex vivo assay mimicking blood flow dynamics coupled to flow cytometry determined the adhesion and transmigration of monocyte subsets toward chemokine‐rich media cultured from pre‐adipocytes (absolute responses). Migration and adhesion were also standardized for differences in numbers of circulating monocytes between participants (relative responses). Metabolic and inflammatory markers were assessed. SAs had higher absolute (but not relative) adhesion and migration of monocytes than WEs. Central obesity was associated with higher absolute and relative adhesion and migration of monocytes. SAs had higher concentrations of all monocyte subsets compared with WEs coinciding with adverse cardiovascular‐inflammatory profiles. LE‐SAs had similar monocyte concentrations, transmigration, and adhesion compared with CO‐WEs, corresponding with similar cardiovascular‐inflammatory profiles. The study provides novel evidence for higher monocyte counts associated with higher transmigration and adhesion in SA compared with WE men. Importantly, similar monocyte biology and cardiovascular‐inflammatory profiles were seen in LE‐SAs compared with CO‐WEs, which may contribute to the higher risk of CVD at lower body mass index experienced by SAs.
Use of point-of-care glucometers during an oral glucose tolerance test in children for prediabetes and diabetes diagnosis: a comparison study
Authors: Fabre-Estremera Blanca , Martínez-Chávez Estéfani , Manzano Ocaña Marta , Carcavilla Urquí Atilano , Morales Sánchez María de los Ángeles , Pinilla Tejado Inmaculada , González-Casado Isabel , Losantos García Itsaso , Fernández-Calle Pilar , Buño Soto Antonio , Oliver Paloma
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Despite clinical guidelines do not recommend the use of point-of-care testing (POCT) glucometers for diagnostic purposes yet, the analytical performance is continuously improving. Thus, we evaluate the technical accuracy and clinical concordance of POCT glucometers during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in children for prediabetes and diabetes diagnosis in a comparison study.

Methods

Pediatric patients with an OGTT indication who attended the Diabetes Unit between December 2020 and September 2021 were recruited for this prospective observational study. During the functional test, glycaemia was immediately measured in venous blood using two glucometers (unconnected and connected) and sent to the central laboratory.

Results

The study included 98 patients. There was a high correlation between the glucometers and the central laboratory (Pearson correlation coefficient=0.912 and 0.950, for unconnected and connected glucometer, respectively). The median OGTT turnaround time (TAT) was significantly decreased (connected glucometer: 2.02 h [interquartile range, 2.00–2.07], central laboratory: 11.63 h [6.09–25.80]), with similar overall cost. The diagnostic concordance between connected glucometer and the central laboratory was 71.1 % (95 % confidence interval (CI) 61.5–79.2). The clinical decision would have been the same in the 92.8 % of the cases, but treatment would have not been indicated in 4 patients (4.1 %).

Conclusions

POCT glucometers have demonstrated a high correlation and an acceptable diagnostic concordance with the central laboratory during an OGTT, as well the connected device offers a significant decrease in TAT, without increasing costs. However, as severe clinical impact could happen, POCT glucometers may not be used for diagnosis yet.
Antibacterial and biofilm prevention metabolites from Acanthophora spicifera
Authors: Budiyanto Fitri , Albalawi Nawal A. , Ghandourah Mohamed A. , Sobahi Tariq R. , Aly Magda M. , Althagbi Hanan F. , Abuzahrah Samah S. , Alarif Walied M.
Published: November 2023

Acanthophora spicifera harbors a diverse array of secondary metabolites with therapeutic potential. The aim of this study is to isolate and characterize secondary metabolites from A. spicifera and then evaluate the antiproliferation, antibacterial, and biofilm prevention properties, followed by an analysis of molecular docking experiments. By employing chromatographic analysis and NMR spectroscopy, the isolated compounds were, the known flavonol, 8-hydroxyquercetagetin (1), three recognized steroids cholest-4-ene-3,6-dione (2), cholest-5-en-3β-ol (3), and 5α-cholestane-3,6-dione (4), and 2-bromohexadecanoic acid (5). These compounds exhibited antimicrobial effects against various Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria with inhibition zones ranging from 6.5 ± 0.2 to 17.2 ± 0.12 mm and 7.0 ± 0.4 to 15.3 ± 0.60 mm, respectively. Compounds 1 and 2 inhibited biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. Compounds 1–4 demonstrated binding affinity values between −7.5 and −9.4 kcal/mol to protein 1A0G. These binding affinity values were akin to that of amoxicillin, implying that one potential antibacterial mechanism of action of these compounds may involve the inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis. All compounds showed no toxicity against Artemia salina and weak activity against Lymphoma and Lewis lung carcinoma cell lines with LD50 > 100 μg/mL.
A size-dependent 3D solution of functionally graded shallow nanoshells
Authors: Monge Joao Carlos , Mantari Jose Luis , Llosa Melchor Nicolas , Hinostroza Miguel Angel
Published: November 2023

An unavailable semi-analytical non-local 3D solution for functionally graded nanoshells with constant radii of curvature is presented. The small length scale effect is included in Eringen’s nonlocal elasticity theory. The constitutive and equilibrium equations are written in terms of curvilinear orthogonal coordinates systems which are only valid for spherical and cylindrical shells, and rectangular plates. The stresses and displacements are assumed in terms of the Navier method which is applicable for simply supported structures. The derivatives in terms of thickness are approximated by the differential quadrature method (DQM). The thickness domain is discretized by the Chebyshev–Gauss–Lobatto grid distribution. Lagrange interpolation polynomials are considered as the basis function for DQM. The correct free surface boundary condition for out-of-plane stresses is considered. Several problems of isotropic and functionally graded shells subjected to different types of loads are analyzed. The results are compared with other three-dimensional solutions and higher-order theories. It is important to emphasize that the radii of curvature are crucial at nanoscale, so it should be considered in the design of nanodevices.
»’l volger del ciel« – Dantes Sterne
Authors: Blume Dieter
Published: November 2023

Riassunto

L’astronomia ha un ruolo importante nella Commedia; a più riprese si rinvia alla posizione/costellazione degli astri. Da una parte, ciò serve a definire il tempo, ma anche a chiarire le coordinate del cosmo. Dante attribuisce alla danza dei beati un movimenti armonico in qualche misura assimilabile al moto degli astri. Nel momento in cui arriva nel cielo delle stelle fisse, il narratore menziona quel segno zodiacale sotto il quale è nato e al quale si sente legato. Inoltre, nella Canzone Io son venuto al punto della rota, menziona addirittura la costellazione che si vedeva a Firenze la sera del Natale 1296.
Lectura Dantis. Paradiso XVII
Authors: Stockbrugger Philip
Published: November 2023

Riassunto

Il canto XVII del Paradiso è il momento della definitiva consacrazione di Dante a profeta, ad opera del suo mitico progenitore Cacciaguida. Tale consacrazione avviene su di un duplice binario. Da un lato si tratta di descrivere la città di Firenze come centro simbolico di ogni malvagità, una sorta di modello in piccolo del decadimento della cristianità tutta. Dall’altro lato, specularmente, l’autore stilizza il Dante-personaggio in dialettica opposizione a tale epicentro della malvagità, come un profeta inascoltato nella sua patria snaturata. Questa lectura Dantis si propone di ripercorrere alcune strategie di questa duplice, e speculare, stilizzazione.
A Pilot Study on Investigating Primary School Students’ Eye Movements While Solving Compare Word Problems
Authors: Bartalis Ágnes , Péntek Imre , Zsoldos-Marchiș Iuliana
Published: November 2023

One of the most difficult types of arithmetic word problems in primary school is compare problems. Among these problems, the most problematic are those in which the relational term is not consistent with the arithmetic operation required for the solution. This study investigates how 10–11-year-old primary school pupils’ read and interpret compare word problems. The consistency effect and the differences between successful and unsuccessful problem solvers are mainly studied using eye-tracking technology. The results show that students are more successful in solving consistent language (CL) problems than inconsistent language (IL) problems. Regarding eye movements during reading and solving the problems, fixation duration on the relational sentence and numbers is longer in the case of IL problems than in the case of CL problems. Compared to successful problem solvers, unsuccessful solvers fixate longer on the relational term, the pronominal reference word, and the statement and relational sentence of IL problems, but not on numbers.
Digitized Terms: The Regulation of Standard Contract Terms in the Digital Age
Authors: Möslein Florian
Published: November 2023

Digital transformation is also transforming standard contract terms. With the emergence of online platforms, supported by algorithmic data analysis and self-enforcing technologies, platform terms are becoming increasingly common. The article argues that this type of terms differs from traditional standard terms in a number of ways, and it considers whether the existing unfair contract terms regime is still appropriate. The regulatory tools once developed for standard terms in bilateral agreements – transparency requirements, fairness review, and restrictions on contracting around – seem inadequate to meet the new challenges of digital transformation. In order to preserve – or rather recreate – the architecture of choice for private contracts, the paper argues for a new regulatory strategy: In order to strike the right balance between protecting private autonomy and avoiding significant imbalances, the regulatory objective should be to ensure the impartiality of platforms by focusing on the structural conditions of their rule-making.
Entrepreneurship, Resource Rents and Institutions
Authors: Mollick Andre , Sui Lu
Published: November 2023

The resource curse hypothesis supposes that rents generated by resource booms create opportunities for rent-seeking activities, which weaken innovation and economic development due to the potentially adverse effects in competitive markets. The quality of institutions is an important channel to transform society from a rent-seeking economy to an entrepreneurial economy. We address in this paper these channels by examining necessity, opportunity, productive and innovative measures of entrepreneurship. Using annual data from 2002 to 2017, we estimate the relationship between entrepreneurship and natural resource rents for 60 countries. Allowing for measures of institutions (corruption, government policies, and cultural and social norms) and real GDP growth, we find that natural resource rents have negative effects on productive and innovative entrepreneurship, especially in high-income countries. In threshold dynamic panels, entrepreneurial activities grow with higher levels of corruption (weaker institutions), with an interpretation provided based on the higher corruption in developing economies.
Adsorption synergy electrocatalytic degradation of phenol by active oxygen-containing species generated in Co-coal based cathode and graphite anode
Authors: Su Ting , Wang Mengdan , Xianyu Bozhou , Gao Wenwen , Gao Yanli , Gao Pingqiang , Lu Cuiying
Published: November 2023

The coal base electrodes and efficient coal base loaded cobalt electrodes (Co-CE) were prepared by pyrolysis method of low rank coal united activation method of KOH in order to develop more pores structures. The morphology of electrodes were characterized by Scanning electron microscopy, meanwhile, the type of elements were detected by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The electrochemical performance of electrodes were tested by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The lamella structures and pores were observed in microtopography of electrodes and the cobalt were successfully loaded in Co-CE from the EDS analysis. The operating conditions of processing time, current density, electrolyte concentration, pH and initial phenol concentration on this electrochemical system in single factor experiment were separately explored, correspondingly, the value was 180 min, 40 mA·cm−2, 0.01 mol·L−1, 2, 100 mg·L−1, and the phenol removal rate (R) were at the range of 47.64–67.84%. In the optimization experiment of JMP design, the removal rate could reach at 83.47%. The response surface methodology was employed for optimizing operation conditions to improve R. And the prediction model obtained for the response can be represented as: R = 66.5275 + 6.7311X
1 – 5.4197X
4 – 5.2303X
5 + 4.9555X
1
2 – 12.5219X
2
2 – 6.2912X
4
2 + 16.0937X
5
2 + 2.4109X
2
X
4 – 7.910X
3
X
4 – 3.0123X
3
X
5 – 2.183X
4
X
5. The optimized conditions were pH 3, 100 mg·L−1 of phenol concentration, 0.1 mol/L of electrolyte concentration, 35 mA/cm2 of current density, and 180 min of processing time. Meanwhile, the predicted R was 90.86%, the actual R of three parallel experiments were 91.2%, 89.3%, 91.05%, which were well consistent with the predicted value. Additionally, the degradation mechanism was proposed as that the adsorption in pore structures synergy electrocatalytic effect of Co-CE. Micro-electric fields formed in pores and the transition metal catalysis accelerated the transformation of cathode hydrogen peroxide to generate hydroxyl radical (·OH). Furthermore, the ·OH were produced both by cathode and anode which promoted the degradation of phenol. This high catalytic activity and low cost Co-CE is a kind of prospective electrode for electrochemical degradation of phenolic wastewater.
Iterative or stative? New morphosemantic analyses of Latinlūgeō‘mourn’ anddoleō‘feel pain’
Authors: Nishimura Kanehiro
Published: November 2023

This paper will start by focusing on the morphosemantics of a Latin verblūgeō‘mourn’, which represents an emotion felt by people mentally excruciated by their loved one’s death. Traditionally, it has been believed that the Proto-Indo-European verbal root *leu̯g- ‘break’ underlieslūgeō, but recently this etymology has been challenged. However, I will support the traditional ‘break’ hypothesis through a novel semantic comparison todoleō‘feel pain’, a verb also expressing a type of sensation humans often experience. Since its underlying root *delh1- means ‘hew, split’, similar to ‘break’, the semantic development ofdoleōwould provide a neat parallel forlūgeō. Having salvaged the connection with *leu̯g-, I will advocate a stative formation (with *-eh1-i̯é-) forlūgeōinstead of the more commonly presumed iterative reconstruction (with *-éi̯e-). The analysis conducted forlūgeōturns out to be useful fordoleō, too; I will propose that the latter verb’s wider semantic range is best explained as the result of the convergence of two formations, a stative form meaning ‘feel pain’ (with *-eh1-i̯é-) and an iterative form meaning ‘habitually give pain to’ (with *-éi̯e-, as previously assumed for this verb).