bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probabilistic Analysis of Random Check Intrusion Detection System
Authors: Kamalov Firuz , Moussa Sherif , Satrya Gandeva Bayu
Published: April 2024

The ubiquitous adoption of network-based technologies has left organizations vulnerable to malicious attacks. It has become vital to have effective intrusion detection systems (IDS) that protect the network from attacks. In this paper, we study the intrusion detection problem through the lens of probability theory. We consider a situation where a network receives random malicious signals at discrete time instances, and an IDS attempts to capture these signals via a random check process. We aim to develop a probabilistic framework for intrusion detection under the given scenario. Concretely, we calculate the detection rate of a network attack by an IDS and determine the expected number of detections. We perform extensive theoretical and experimental analyses of the problem. The results presented in this paper would be helpful tools for designing and analyzing intrusion detection systems. We propose a probabilistic framework that could be useful for IDS experts; for a network-based IDS that monitors in real-time, analyzing the entire traffic flow can be computationally expensive. By probabilistically sampling only a fraction of the network traffic, the IDS can still perform its task effectively while reducing the computational cost. However, checking only a fraction of the traffic increases the possibility of missing an attack. This research can help IDS designers achieve appropriate detection rates while maintaining a low false alarm rate. The groundwork laid out in this paper could be used for future research on understanding the probabilities related to intrusion detection.
Implementation of Relational Database in the STEAM-Problem Based Learning Model in Algorithm and Programming
Authors: Suryani Des , Ambiyar  , Huda Asrul , Ayu Fitri , Erdisna  , Muhardi
Published: April 2024

Currently, digital technology is developing in all fields. The development of this technology certainly has a significant impact on the world of education. A suitable learning model is needed, especially in the Algorithm and Programming course, to face global challenges in the Industrial Revolution 4.0. Students are expected to have skills that include critical and creative thinking in solving problems, communication, and collaboration with the support of technology. The STEAM-Problem Based Learning model can be used in the Algorithm and Programming learning process with seven syntaxes: preparation and knowledge identification; problem identification; plan solution; create and test products; communicate; evaluation and feedback and giving rewards. All activities carried out in the learning process by lecturers and students can be stored in a database. This research attempts to determine the validity of the STEAM-Problem Based Learning database design, which will be implemented in the Algorithm and Programming course. The data analysis technique used is validity analysis, which is based on assessing the data obtained through a questionnaire or a questionnaire using a Likert scale. Data was processed using Aiken’s V validity coefficient formula to test the expert’s judgment. Assessment indicators include correctness, consistency, relevance, completeness, and minimality. The results of the study show that the validity test on the STEAM-Problem Based Learning database design is valid, so it is feasible to implement it in algorithm and programming learning.
Numerical Investigation of Bearing Capacity of Centrally and Eccentrically Loaded Surface Footing on Sand-Clay with Void Using Plaxis 2D
Authors: Nezari Abdelhakim , Boufarh Rafik , Mansouri Tarek
Published: April 2024

The presence of voids under footings can significantly reduce the stability of the foundation and the superstructure above it. Estimating the bearing capacity of a footing with voids below it is a complex and challenging problem in geotechnical engineering. This study investigates the stability of centrally and eccentrically loaded surface footings supported by sand layers of variable thickness overlying clay layers, with circular voids below the center of the footing. Using the Plaxis finite element software, the influence of various parameters on the overall performance of the footing, including load eccentricity, void location, void size, and introducing geogrid reinforcement at the sand-clay interface are analyzed. The results show that increasing the void depth, add a thick layer of sand or introducing geogrid reinforcement can mitigate the impact of a void beneath a foundation.
Avaliação do impacto da sujidade no desempenho de sistemas fotovoltaicos
Authors: Tramontin Letícia Recco , Rampinelli Giuliano Arns
Published: April 2024

A geração de energia elétrica a partir de usinas fotovoltaicas no Brasil tem crescido e novos desafios surgem nesse contexto. A deposição de sujeira na superfície de módulos fotovoltaicos é uma causa relevante para perdas na geração de energia elétrica. O principal objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar, modelar e analisar o impacto da sujidade no desempenho energético de sistemas fotovoltaicos, através da mensuração do ganho obtido após a limpeza de dois sistemas fotovoltaicos localizados no Rio Grande do Sul (RS). Os dados da saída do inversor de cada sistema no intervalo de até 30 dias antes e depois do procedimento foram coletados, organizados e tratados. O mesmo foi feito para os dados de irradiação obtidos através das estações meteorológicas do INMET mais próximas. Foi possível modelar a relação entre a irradiação solar e a energia produzida utilizando regressão linear, com um coeficiente de determinação próximo a 1, o que indica um bom ajuste do modelo. Observou-se uma melhoria notável na curva de potência dos inversores após a limpeza dos módulos fotovoltaicos, principalmente no caso do Sistema FV 1. A melhoria em patamares mais modestos foi consistente no Sistema FV 2. Além disso, no caso do Sistema FV 1 observou-se o efeito do entorno nos ganhos obtidos, no qual os inversores mais próximos da metalúrgica melhoraram a geração em até 65%. As análises também evidenciaram a influência de fatores como o ângulo de inclinação do telhado e condições ambientais na conversão de energia solar. No entanto, é importante reconhecer as limitações deste estudo, como a falta de dados detalhados sobre as condições meteorológicas e a precisão das medições. A análise se baseia em dados disponíveis nas plataformas de monitoramento, os quais podem estar sujeitos a imprecisões ou limitações técnicas. Essas limitações destacam a necessidade de pesquisas futuras para explorar ainda mais os efeitos da limpeza dos módulos fotovoltaicos.
Magnitude transition probability and casual dependence of local earthquakes
Authors: Selim Mahmoud M. ,   Department of Mathematics, College of Sciences & Humanities, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 16273, Saudi Arabia
Published: April 2024

Even though they contribute far less to the total worldwide death toll and damage than their more powerful counterparts, Aswan earthquakes, which have low overall seismicity and magnitudes between 3.0 and 5.6, may be the main source of seismic risk and hazard in the Aswan region. With such earthquakes’ potential to cause significant concern in several parts of the world, it is important to study of the casual dependence between the occurrences of earthquake magnitudes in Aswan area. The probabilistic dependence is different from the casual dependence. Earthquakes’ probabilistic reliance is not a prerequisite nor an adequate means of establishing a causal connection. Therefore, it is crucial to look at the accidental dependency of earthquake magnitude in the Aswan region. For this purpose, and to verify the stability of the findings, we considered the seismic data from 1980 to 2002 in Aswan area. The statistical and probabilistic methods might be used to examine the features of the dependency between earthquake magnitudes. The probability of both the absolute and conditional earthquake magnitudes, as determined by counting the consecutive observations of earthquake magnitude directly. This article investigates empirically the magnitude transition probability and casual dependence of earthquake magnitude events in Aswan area. The data for 286 consecutive earthquakes felt in the Aswan area with a magnitude of 3.0 or above are utilized in the probability calculations to examine the dependency of earthquake magnitudes on chance. The results show that the magnitudes of subsequent earthquakes in the Aswan area are causally related to one another. Additionally, the results of this study imply that the order in which earthquakes occur in the Aswan region may be governed by some regular connection.
Quantifying the Impact of Sea Level on Coastal Cities using Bayesian optimized Monte Carlo Simulation model
Authors: Elsiddieg Awatif M. A. ,   Department of Mathematics, College of Science and Humanities, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 710, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
Published: April 2024

The immediate treatment of the increasing of sea levels represent on coastal cities around the globe is the subject of this research. Using an all-encompassing and probabilistic methodology, the study quantifies the complex effects of rising sea levels using a Bayesian-optimized Monte Carlo simulation framework. The current approaches for assessing the effects of rising sea levels frequently do not adequately capture the intrinsic complexity and unpredictability of changing structures. This work presents a novel method combining Monte Carlo simulation and Bayesian optimization to overcome these drawbacks. The present research is innovative since it incorporates Bayesian optimization methods into a Monte Carlo simulation framework. By constantly modifying distributions of probabilities according to observable results, this combination improves simulation performance. This constantly changing optimization methodology closes a significant gap within current methods by ensuring a more accurate portrayal of shifting conditions. In addition, the method used in this work emphasizes cooperation among mathematicians, coastal scientists, and climate researchers, thereby promoting a comprehensive knowledge of the complex issues raised by rising sea levels. This set of variables includes the current level of the sea, land height, frequency of storm surges, population density, and infrastructure resilience. The model’s effectiveness is rigorously assessed, utilizing procedures for verification and calibration that use past information. Calculations are guided by various rising sea-level situations based on scientific forecasts and uncertainty ranges. Sensitivity analysis pinpoints important factors, guiding further efforts to gather data and improve the model. The structure for the performance assessment ensures that the model is dependable and applicable to those making decisions who want to prioritize flexible measures and create resilient communities along the coast.
Study of Different GP Parameters in Automatic Cryptosystems Design
Authors: Awad Wasan S. ,   Department of Information Technology, College of Information Technology, Ahlia University, Manama, Bahrain
Published: April 2024

There are several parameters, such as, operation rates and population size, must be set in order to apply Genetic Programming (GP) to solve a particular problem. The values of these parameters may affect the performance of GP. Mutation operation is used to introduce a small perturbation in the population from time to time to maintain its diversity. Several mutation operations have been proposed for GP. This paper is to study different mutation operations used in GP for designing cryptosystems. Experiments performed to study the effectiveness of these operations in solving the underlying problem. It has been shown that mutation operations play an important role in improving the performance of GP.
Fear - an Essential Characteristic of Recent Times
Authors: Nistor Petronela Polixenia , Neagu Oana-Andreea
Published: April 2024

Current sociological and psychological research tends to consider fear as an essential feature of recent times, an omnipresent phenomenon of contemporary society that influences individual and collective behaviors in different fields. This theoretical analysis explores the various aspects of fear in modern society, with a focus on key concepts such as fear culture, fear sociology, liquid fear, terrorist threat, and fear of freedom. The main objective of this theoretical analysis/research/documentation is to become the theoretical framework for further research on fears and threats in a modern society.
The Impact of Faith and Family in the Development of Resilience in Adolescents During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Neagu Oana-Andreea
Published: April 2024

Students and whoever might be looking to understand the context and issues generated by the COVID-19 pandemic will find in this paper a micro-research that highlights the role of faith and family in the development of resilience in adolescents with a predisposition to anxious and depressive behavior. As shown by the works of research cited here and feedback from our respondents, faith manifested in moral values through personal acts, or the participation in community life through religious and spiritual practices is a means toward developing resilience in youth and creating a feeling of belonging and solidarity. This research paper also highlights that both the nucleus family and the expanded family offer a supporting and learning environment that is adjustable, where youth can find resources and strength to build a dignified and safe life.
A infância em face da racionalidade neoliberal: midiatização e dessimbolização da linguagem em sociedades complexas
Authors: Lorenzon Mateus , Cenci Angelo Vitório
Published: April 2024

Neste artigo de caráter bibliográfico discute-se a interface entre a midiatização e a infância à luz da racionalidade neoliberal, dando especial ênfase aos processos de empobrecimento da linguagem e dessimbolização do imaginário ocorridos no contexto contemporâneo. Em consonância com Dardot e Laval (2016), entende-se o neoliberalismo como uma racionalidade que transborda os limites do mercado e transversaliza as diferentes instituições, fenômenos e relações sociais. Na primeira seção discorre-se sobre o fenômeno da midiatização da infância, buscando identificar de que modo as normas neoliberais fazem-se presentes nesse processo. Na segunda seção, analisa-se a inter-relação existente entre midiatização, o empobrecimento da linguagem e as mutações no imaginário. À guisa de conclusão, aponta-se que as mídias digitais consistem em uma estratégia eficiente de produção da subjetividade neoliberal, na medida que permitem a interiorização de normas de conduta, desenvolvimento de hábitos psíquicos que almejam a satisfação imediata e o apelo ao consumo. Essas mudanças, por sua vez, refletem no empobrecimento do imaginário que, consequentemente, torna-se um empecilho na busca de racionalidades alternativas ao neoliberalismo.
Língua de sinais e resistência de sujeitos surdos: análise discursiva de uma piada em Libras da TV INES
Authors: Coimbra Matheus Batista Barboza , Fragoso Élcio Aloisio
Published: April 2024

A língua de sinais e os sujeitos surdos enfrentaram, no decorrer da história, diversas tentativas de silenciamento. Discutindo sobre isso, o objetivo deste artigo é analisar uma piada em Libras, disponibilizada como parte da programação da TV INES, a qual funciona como um mecanismo de resistência surda. Como pressupostos teóricos e metodológicos, tomamos a perspectiva da Análise de Discurso materialista, conforme postulada por Pêcheux e Orlandi. Os resultados da pesquisa nos permitem dizer que os sujeitos surdos são vistos como inferiores e sofreram diferentes formas de repressão. No entanto, esse apagamento e silenciamento produzem os movimentos de resistência de sujeitos surdos, tendo em vista que os sentidos sempre podem ser outros.
Direitos Humanos nos Cursos Técnicos de Nível Médio: o que dizem as pesquisas na Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu brasileira
Authors: Pasqualli Roberta , Petersohn Neiva Teresinha Borges , Vieira Josimar de Aparecido
Published: April 2024

Promover a educação em Direitos Humanos é, essencialmente, possibilitar a formação de uma cultura de respeito à dignidade humana por meio da promoção e vivência dos valores da liberdade, da justiça, da igualdade, da solidariedade, da cooperação, da tolerância e da paz. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste estudo é catalogar o que dizem as pesquisas realizadas na Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu brasileira acerca dos Direitos Humanos nos Cursos Técnicos de Nível Médio entre os anos de 2008 a 2022. O estudo foi constituído a partir da catalogação e da análise das teses e dissertações disponíveis na Biblioteca Digital Brasileira de Teses e Dissertações (BDTD). Trata-se de uma pesquisa de natureza básica com abordagem qualitativa. Quanto aos seus objetivos, é classificada como exploratória e descritiva com procedimentos técnicos documental e bibliográfico. Conclui-se, ressaltando a relevância da temática dos Direitos Humanos a qual pugna-se que seja incluída como componente curricular dos variados níveis de ensino e cursos nacionais, tendo em vista que a educação em Direitos Humanos promove uma educação plural, inclusiva e democrática.
Memória e letramento racial no Ensino Médio: táticas para aplicabilidade das leis 10.639/03 e 11.645/08 nas escolas
Authors: Lopes Ronald , Alves Ligia Emanuela Costa
Published: April 2024

Este texto aborda a relação entre memória, letramento racial e as práticas pedagógicas estabelecidas a partir das leis 10.639/03 e 11.645/08 que obrigam o ensino de história e da cultura afro-brasileiras e indígenas nas redes escolares. Tanto a leitura quanto a escrita passaram por sensibilidades que carregaram apagamentos de corpos negros. A metodologia empregada foi uma revisão de literatura, seguida de um relato de experiência. No texto, fornecemos modelos de práticas pedagógicas que combatem o epistemicídio através de narrativas descolonizadas. A memória é fundamental para a construção da identidade e para a compreensão do mundo ao nosso redor. Concluímos que, no contexto educacional, reconhecer a importância da memória coletiva sobre o indivíduo é fundamental na produção dos saberes antirracistas.
O ser mais freiriano e suas perspectivas ontológicas: implicações no ser docente
Authors: Araújo Gilvan Charles Cerqueira de , Sousa Carlos Ângelo de Meneses
Published: April 2024

O artigo visa apresentar as implicações do ser mais freiriano e suas perspectivas ontológicas no ser docente. Com base em uma pesquisa bibliográfica em obras de Paulo Freire e em publicações de especialistas afins à temática, constatamos que a perspectiva ontológica freiriana do ser mais tem implicações na docência. Propõe-se, por meio de uma revisão bibliográfica e da dialogia entre autores, ideias e conceituações, um debate sobre a envergadura teórico-epistêmica do ser mais freiriano, considerando-se a possibilidade de sua compreensão como fundamento ontológico do ser docente, compreendendo diferentes dimensões que permeiam a formação do profissional que atua no âmbito da educação. Espera-se, com este estudo, o resgate e a continuidade das proposições freirianas ao ser docente, a partir da sua vocação do ser mais.
In search of quality: students’ perceptions of designed online courses
Authors: Bansah Abednego Kofi
Published: April 2024

Emphasizing, obtaining, and utilizing a standardized guide for online instruction can never be overemphasized. The study sought to explore the degree to which an adapted and modified Quality Matters Review Standards; students’ engagement, student support, and student learning reflected on students’ perception of designed online courses. Convenience sampling was employed to access 542 participants through a link situated in Google Forms via the student listserv. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. Participants reported high positive perceptions on all the independent latent variables: students' learning, engagement, and support based on QM-rubric-designed online courses. The study revealed that all three variables contributed to predicting students’ evaluation of the designed online course. Higher education institutions especially the one under study should develop coherent strategies to integrate the QM-rubric as a pedagogical standard for best practice in delivering online learning. 
Keywords: Online courses; pedagogy; quality matters rubric; students’ engagement; student learning; students support
The Doomsday Economy: Colonial Violence, Environmental Catastrophe, and Burning Tires in Palestine
Authors: Fuchs Ido
Published: April 2024

The article analyzes the Palestinian act of tire burning at the intersection of the following frameworks – colonial violence, racial capitalism, and environmental discourse. The analysis considers the many functions of Palestinian tire burning: capital accumulation, waste management, protestors’ protection, counter-violence, pollution redistribution, and spectacle production. This analysis leads to the argument that Palestinian tire burning takes part in a “Doomsday Economy.” The article promotes the concept of a “Doomsday Economy” as a frame for understanding violence toward Palestinians and the contemporary intent of tire burning. The Doomsday Economy is a violent economic structure that involves two interplaying processes: (a) the positioning of a discursive catastrophe in a deferred future by colonial powers in order to conceal the present violence and production of a daily doomsday for the oppressed; and (b) the oppressed’s acceleration of the future-doomsday’s arrival for all participants of this economy – through pollution and images – introducing doomsday as a present state.
„Na hałdach rosną ludzie”: literacka historia pogórniczych środowisk sprzymierzeńczych
Authors: Tomczok Marta
Published: April 2024

Artykuł zarysowuje problematykę historii środowiskowej hałd Górnośląskiego Zagłębia Węglowego na podstawie źródeł literackich takich autorów, jak Gustaw Morcinek, Wilhelm Szewczyk i Leon Wantuła, którzy ze względu na doświadczenia biograficzne mieli pełny wgląd w zmiany środowisk pogórniczych. Głównym dyskutowanym problemem są literackie możliwości historii środowiskowej, a także zagadnienia postzależności środowisk przemysłowych i poprzemysłowych, właściwie całkowicie nieobecnych w historii z pierwszego planu, ale upamiętnionych dokładnie w prywatnych relacjach. Hałdy są tu analizowane jako krajobraz dereliktowy, środowisko sprzymierzeńcze, enklawa bezrobocia i biedy, ikona dziedzictwa lokalnego i krańcobraz.
Francuski atom a kapitał symboliczny Bourdieu
Authors: Dybczyńska Julia
Published: April 2024

Artykuł jest propozycją odczytania procesu nuklearyzacji Francji w latach 1945–1980 przez pryzmat pojęcia kapitału symbolicznego Pierre’a Bourdieu. Pierwsza część tekstu opisuje genezę francuskiego projektu atomowego i tłumaczy jego prestiżowy charakter. Podkreśla podwójne, militarne i cywilne, zastosowanie technologii jądrowej, a także jej związek z kolonialnym porządkiem politycznym. W drugiej części zidentyfikowane i zanalizowane zostają dyskursywne strategie przyczyniające się do legitymizacji kapitału symbolicznego nuklearnych projektów. Tekst wskazuje poznawcze schematy, które budują uznanie branży jądrowej. W kolejnym kroku zestawienie wyników badań Martina Denoun z teorią Bourdieu pozwala na wytłumaczenie związku między wizjami przyszłości a procesem uprawomocniania działania przemysłu nuklearnego. Podsumowanie zaproponowane w ostatniej części artykułu pozwala na skomentowanie samej teorii Bourdieu.
Dialektyka natury i społeczeństwa przeciwko monizmowi. Esej recenzyjny z „Marx in the Anthropocene” Kohei Saita (2023, Cambridge University Press)
Authors: Januszkiewicz Antonina
Published: April 2024

Artykuł omawia pracę Marx in the Anthropocene Kohei Saita, umieszczając ją na szerszym tle dyskusji nad ekologiczną myślą Marksa oraz wyjaśniając podstawowe założenia teorii rysy metabolicznej. Głównym wątkiem książki, na którym skupia się autorka, jest jednak przeprowadzona przez Saita krytyka współczesnych ekokrytycznych koncepcji monistycznych (wiążących w jedność porządek natury i kultury). Jak pokazuje, metodologiczny dualizm Marksa lepiej pozwala określić drogi wyjścia z ekologicznego kryzysu.
Az eszköz nélküli halászat és rákászat emlékei és utolsó gyakorlói a Kárpát-medence néhány vidékén
Authors: Löki Viktor
Published: April 2024

Az eszköz nélküli halászathoz és rákászathoz köthető hagyományos ökológiai tudás egyes szegmensei élelemszerző, de rekreációs céllal is a világ számos táján napjainkig fennmaradtak. A jelenséget a néprajzi irodalomnak köszönhetően a Kárpát-medencében is közel két évszázadon keresztül viszonylagos alapossággal dokumentálták. Mivel a tevékenységet közvetetten lehetővé tevő, a természettel szoros közelségben élő gazdálkodó életmód egészen az 1970-es vagy a 1980-as évek végéig, vagy helyenként akár tovább is gyakorolva volt, így az eszköz nélküli halászat egy spontán megfigyelése után feltételeztem, hogy a témakörhöz kapcsolódó ismeretek legalább egy része túlélte a modernizációt, és máig fennmaradt a régióban. Munkám során ennek megfelelően szerettem volna találni még legalább néhány olyan személyt, aki gyakorolta vagy napjainkban is gyakorolja az eszköz nélküli halászatot és rákászatot a régiónkban, valamint képes a tevékenység módszertani részleteiről, természetvédelmi vonatkozásairól és kulturális hátteréről is beszámolni. 2022 augusztusában ennek érdekében a romániai Sóvidék környékén kerestem fel és szólítottam meg interjúkészítés szándékával a téma ismerőit, 2022 augusztusa és decembere között Magyarországon ezt kiegészítettem az Északi-középhegységre és a Felső-Tisza vidékére koncentrált online megkeresésekkel, végül 2023 augusztusában a szerbiai Vajdaság nyugat-bácskai körzetében, illetve a horvátországi Drávaszög keleti részén kutattam az eszköz nélküli halászat és rákászat gyakorlói után. A meglátogatott négy országban összesen tizenhat személyt találtam, aki beszélgetést tudott fenntartani a témában, közülük tizenegy személlyel tudtam rögzített interjút készíteni. Az interjúalanyok a hagyományosan ismert öt eszköz nélküli halászati módszer közül négyről számoltak be. A beszélgetések során összesen nyolc halfaj vagy taxon eszköz nélküli halászata merült fel, a résztvevők ezenkívül az eszköz nélküli rákászat módszertanához is tudtak szórványos adalékokkal szolgálni. Mindezek alapján úgy tűnik, az eszköz nélküli halászat és rákászat egyes ismeretei minden régi és új tiltás, valamint életmódbeli változás ellenére is máig élnek a tájban. A tevékenység az interjúk alapján kulturálisan szabályozott és fenntartható gyakorlattal rendelkezik, mely nem járt és ma sem jár jelentős hal- vagy rákállomány-csökkenéssel, vagy populációk kipusztulásával, illetve legtöbbször mentes a megszaladási jelenségektől, mely alól csak a kevés invazív módszer alkalmazása, vagy néhány eszköz nélküli halász alkalmi mohó attitűdje jelenthet kivételt.
Boehme, Katja (2023). Interreligiöses Begegnungslernen. Grundlegung einer fächerkooperierenden Didaktik von Weltsichten. Freiburg: Herder. ISBN: 978-3-451-38769-2. 568 Seiten.
Authors: Haußmann Werner
Published: April 2024

-
Dealing with Diversity
Authors: Auditor Stefanie , Hunze Guido , Könemann Judith
Published: April 2024

Die QLB an der Universität Münster zielte darauf ab, Heterogenität und Inklusion als durchgängige Themen sowohl in die fachdidaktischen und bildungswissenschaftlichen Curricula als auch in die Veranstaltungen selbst zu implementieren. In diesem Rahmen sind die drei hier dargestellten Lehrkonzepte entwickelt worden, die die Professionalisierung und Qualifizierung angehender Religionslehrkräfte im Umgang mit Heterogenität und Vielfalt fördern und unterstützen. Nach einer Einführung in den Rahmen der QLB und einer Analyse der Ausgangssituation werden spezifische Bedarfe identifiziert, welche die Lehrveranstaltungen adressieren. Während das erste Seminar die theologischen, kommunikativen und didaktischen Herausforderungen im Kontext von Heterogenität fokussiert, nimmt die Vorlesung besonders die begriffstheoretische Analyse rund um den Gesamtdiskurs in den Blick. Das Peer-Learning versucht insbesondere die Theorie-Praxis-Verzahnung durch das Framing eines Lehr-Lern-Labors zu verstärken. Allen drei Veranstaltungsformaten gemeinsam ist das Anliegen, die Selbstreflexion der Studierenden im Sinne der Subjekt- und Kompetenzorientierung auszubilden. Abschließend werden Desiderate in der Hochschullehre benannt.
Das „Digitale Lehrhaus für den evangelischen Religionsunterricht“ in der Lehrkräftebildung
Authors: Bradtke Julia , Fricke Michael
Published: April 2024

Durch die Digitalität eröffnen sich dem Religionsunterricht Wege, das Lernen über und von Religion neu zu gestalten. Da Religionslehrkräfte zentrale Akteure in der Kreation und im Einsatz digitaler Lernwege sind, ist es nötig, dass sie bereits in der universitären Phase mit diesen in Kontakt kommen, sie erproben und religionsdidaktisch reflektieren. Der Betrag berichtet vom Einsatz des Digitalen Lehrhauses für den evangelischen Religionsunterricht in der Lehrkräftebildung. Dieses Lehrhaus ist eine interaktive digitale Lernumgebung zur Förderung der interreligiösen Dialogkompetenz von Schülerinnen und Schülern zum Einsatz im Religionsunterricht in der Sekundarstufe. Es stellt einen auf Dialogkultur basierendes virtuelles Begegnungshaus dar, in dem Lernende zum einen selbstgesteuert Figuren, Räume und Inhalte zum (inter-)religiösen Dialog entdecken können und zum anderen zum Theologisieren und Dialogschreiben angeleitet werden. In Verbindung mit der Lehrhausentwicklung fanden Lehrveranstaltungen statt. Der Beitrag stellt theoretische Hintergründe, konkrete Umsetzungsbeispiele und Reflexionen von Studierenden zu ihren Lernerfahrungen vor.
Vorwort
Authors: Board Editorial
Published: April 2024

---
Metastasis suppressor kisspeptin (KISS1) in the blood serum of lung cancer patients
Authors: Gershtein E. S. , Kovaleva O. V. , Kuzmin Yu. B. , Alferov A. A. , Rogozhin D. V. , Yanushevich O. O. , Stilidi I. S. , Kushlinskii N. E.
Published: April 2024

Aim. To conduct a comparative assessment of the content of kisspeptin (KISS1) metastasis suppressor in the blood serum of apparently healthy individuals and patients with lung cancer (LC) and to analyze the associations between the KISS1 level and clinical and pathological characteristics of the disease.

Materials and methods. The study included 74 LC patients and 46 apparently healthy individuals. Stage I LC was diagnosed in 8 patients, stage II LC – in 7 patients, stage III LC – in 28 patients, and stage IV LC – in 31 patients. According to the histologic pattern, 32 tumors were characterized as adenocarcinoma, 29 – as squamous-cell carcinoma, 11 – as small-cell LC (SCLC), and 2 – as large-cell lung carcinoma. The pre-treatment KISS1 level in the blood serum was determined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit (KISS1, CloudClone Corp., USA).

Results. The median serum KISS1 level in LC patients was 213 (range 7.8–716) pg / ml and was significantly higher than in the control group – 83.4 (0–180) pg / ml (p < 0.0001). The ROC analysis of the diagnostic value of serum KISS1 level demonstrated that the sensitivity of the test in relation to the healthy controls was 70% at a cutoff value of 152 pg / ml, and the specificity was 85% (AUC – 0.817; р < 0.0001). In stage I–II LC, the sensitivity did not exceed 50%. The level of KISS1 in the blood serum did not depend on the histologic type of the tumor. No significant differences in the serum KISS1 levels were observed both between non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) on the whole and neuroendocrine SCLC and between the main histologic types of NSCLC. The level of KISS1 increased with the disease stage (p < 0.05). However, none of the TNM staging system indices significantly influenced the level of the marker. No differences were found between serum KISS1 levels in patients with central or peripheral localization of the tumor.

Conclusion. The KISS1 level was elevated in LC patients compared to healthy controls and was a stage-dependent marker. It has high diagnostic specificity but insufficient sensitivity, especially at early stages of the disease. Based on the results of this study and literature data on the role of KISS1in NSCLC, we conclude that clinical implications of KISS1 in this disease require further research.
Transcriptional regulation of lactate dehydrogenase activity in rat kidney cells in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Eprintsev A. T. , Presnyakov E. S. , Selivanova N. V.
Published: April 2024

Aim. To study the features of transcriptional regulation of the activity and isoenzyme composition of lactate dehydrogenase in the kidneys of Rattus norvegicus L. in diabetic nephropathy.

Materials and methods. The study included 20 male laboratory rats (Rattus norvegicus L.) divided into two equal groups: “Norm” – intact rats injected with 0.9% NaCl intraperitoneally and “Diabetes” – animals with alloxaninduced diabetes (DM1 model). The activity, subcellular localization, and mobility of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH, EC 1.1.1.27) isoenzymes were studied using spectrophotometry and electrophoresis. LDHA and LDHB gene transcripts were analyzed by the polymerase chain reaction.

Results. Analysis of the LDH activity showed that this parameter increased by more than 6 times in the animals with diabetic nephropathy compared to the control group. Moreover, the increase in the rate of the LDH activity was a consequence of the enzyme activation in all the studied compartments of the cell and is consistent with the parameter in the homogenate. The increase in the LDH activity in diabetic nephropathy may result from redistribution of the activity rate between the available isoforms and may be associated with an increase in the transcription rate of genes encoding subunits A and B of this enzyme.

Conclusion. The increase in the LDH activity is likely associated with the activation of renal gluconeogenesis, the main substrate for which is lactic acid reabsorbed in the renal glomeruli. The revealed increase in the LDH activity in the kidneys of rats with diabetic nephropathy may be associated with adaptation of their metabolism to the pathological state.
Neutrophil extracellular traps in the anti-infectious defense of human organism
Authors: Kazimirskii A. N. , Salmasi J. M. , Poryadin G. V. , Panina M. I. , Stupin V. A. , Kim A. E. , Titova E. G. , Rogozhina L. S.
Published: April 2024

Background. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are net-like structures that have been investigated in inflammatory diseases. However, the presence of NETs in infected persons without clinical symptoms has not been yet studied.

Aim. To reveal NETs in healthy persons during and after the H1N1 influenza pandemic as well as to study the functional activity of NETs.

Materials and methods. The study included two groups of volunteers (n = 10 in each group) aged 20–25 years. The first group of volunteers was examined in the absence of acute diseases during one month before the study and in the absence of chronic diseases in the medical history. Volunteers of the second group were in contact with patients with influenza, but did not get sick. The comparative study also included patients with acute inflammation in the abdominal cavity (appendicitis, cholecystitis, abscess; 12 patients) and 9 patients with non-specific ulcerative colitis. Neutrophils were isolated from the blood by the traditional method of Ficoll density centrifugation. The number, morphology, and functional activity of NETs were determined (by capture of Klebsiella pneumoniae). SYBR Green I-based fluorescence microscopy was used to visualize and quantify NETs.

Results. In healthy volunteers who were not in contact with infected patients, spontaneous NETs formation did not occur. Neutrophils of persons who were in contact with infected patients spontaneously formed NETs. In this case the number of NETs reached 8.58 ± 0.51%, and the size of NETs amounted to 39.68 ± 3.52 µm. NETs effectively captured cells of the tested microorganism, which was accompanied by retraction of network fibers and transformation of the network structure into a cloud-like one, which retained 89.38 ± 5.86 microbial cells. For comparison, the NETs in patients with acute inflammation in the abdominal cavity captured and bound 20.2 ± 1 .67 microbial cells and with non-specific ulcerative colitis – 5.53 ± 0.34 cells.

Conclusion. High binding capacity of NETs is a factor contributing to effective defense of the body against the development of an infectious disease with manifested clinical symptoms.
Parameters of the mmp / timp system in assessing the clinical course of pulmonary tuberculoma
Authors: Esmedlyaeva D. S. , Alekseeva N. P. , Dyakova M. Ye. , Karostik D. V. , Grigoriev I. V. , Sokolovich E. G.
Published: April 2024

Aim. To study the parameters of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) / tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMP) system in assessing the clinical course of pulmonary tuberculoma.

Materials and methods. We examined 87 patients (55 men and 32 women), average age 33 [28; 43] years, with a morphologically and bacteriologically confirmed diagnosis of tuberculoma, who received treatment at St. Petersburg Research Institute of Phthisiopulmonology. In all patients, computed tomography of the chest, fiberoptic bronchoscopy, and lung function tests were performed. In the blood serum, concentrations of MMP-1, -8, -9, and their tissue inhibitor TIMP-1 were determined using ELISA (R&D Systems, USA), and the activity of α2-macroglobulin (MG) was determined by the enzyme assays. For statistical data processing, Statistica 10.0 and R were used.

Results. In the study group, single and multiple tuberculomas were revealed in 37 and 63% of cases, respectively, necrotic areas – in 50% of patients, external respiration disorders – in 48% of cases, and catarrhal bronchitis (CB) – in 77% of cases. Tobacco smokers (TS) were identified in 69% of cases. Significant differences between MMP concentrations allowed us to distinguish four patterns from the characteristics adopted for the clinical and radiological assessment of disease intensity. It was shown that an increase in the levels of MMP-1 and MMP-9 can be a predictor of tuberculoma progression caused by a diffuse process with necrotic areas and bronchogenic dissemination (pattern 1, 2). Changes in the levels of MMP-8, TIMP-1 or MG (pattern 3, 4) were associated with permanent exposure to a non-specific component of inflammation (TS or CB).

Conclusion. Changes in the MMP / TIMP system parameters can be used as objective laboratory protein biomarkers to assess the clinical course of pulmonary tuberculoma.
Juggling access vs retention and academic performance: The experience of a lecturer teaching in an open, distance e-learning institution
Authors: le Roux S.G,
Published: April 2024

In response to the growing number of people requiring access to higher education, the student numbers at distance education institutions grew significantly over the last decade (Unisa 2013; 2020). Unfortunately, many students who enrol at open distance learning institutions are not ready for the demands of distance e-learning. More than half of students enrolled at the open distance learning institution where this study was done drop out and the reasons have been well researched (Joubert and Snyman 2018; Mashile, Fynn, and Matoane 2020). It seems that universities’ responses to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4.3 ‒ equal access to technical, vocational and higher education) (Unesco 2021) may unintentionally have created new vulnerabilities for the very group of people they have targeted for progress to end poverty, hunger and discrimination. As nearly a third of all students in South Africa are enrolled at Africa’s largest open distance learning institution (Unisa 2018), it becomes crucial not only to increase access, but simultaneously to prioritise student retention and academic performance. This raises the question: How can and should lecturers teaching at distance-education institutions optimise the online teaching and learning environment in order to bridge the gap between access targets and academic performance targets? Following an autoethnographic research design, I share my own experiences of teaching two year-modules of the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) Foundation Phase programme offered via a continuous assessment (CA) approach. Two theoretical frameworks, namely the socio-critical model of Subotzky and Prinsloo (2011, 184), and Luna’s (2018) theory of layers of vulnerability guided my understanding of the challenges associated with distance learning as well as my research design. My study reveals that the promise of CA does not always convert to optimal performance, and that contextual factors in distance education have a powerful impact on academic achievement despite the effort made by lecturers.
Improving clinical nursing education in South of Iran 2016‒2021: A cooperative action research study
Authors: Hojat M
Published: April 2024

Clinical education is a heart of education. The improvement of it is a challenge for every university. African countries like Iran are developing, especially in higher education. So the work context is almost the same. The present study was conducted to identify the clinical education challenges and improving it by a cooperative action research approach. This study was conducted from 2016 to 2021. The participants were 41 nurses and head nurses, 86 nursing students, and 26 nursing teachers. They worked through two cycles of reflection for 50 months. The data were collected and analyzed using the qualitative and quantitative methods. The findings of the qualitative data by 11 semi-structured interviews and ten focus group discussion revealed that the 8 sub-categories (lack of attention to the evaluation process, non-participatory evaluation, low-staff educational cooperation, ineffective trainer, non-educational clinical context, student educational disability, student drowning in bed, non-planning Participatory) and 3 main themes (planning challenges, implementing challenges and evaluation challenges) were obtained. After change in planning and implementation process, evaluation was done by a standard researcher made questionnaire according to the sub-categories of qualitative data. That showed satisfaction Improvement in 3 main themes in two cycle (planning, implementing, and evaluating). Reflection in every cycle caused change in planning, implementing and evaluating process. Moreover, it caused learning for all participants. These participants made a small change in the style of educational management from authoritarian to participatory. So, run programs introduced in this action research could be applicable for educational managers and policymakers.
Creating a sense of “aliveness” in a SoTL CoP on a rural campus
Authors: Bernard E
Published: April 2024

The Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL), as a research-based inquiry into student learning, is a continuously evolving practice. SoTL, as a practice, guides academics in improving upon their teaching, which is based on their specific context and student cohort. However, since academics are ultimately specialists in their own fields, completing research based on higher education topics is most often unfamiliar territory; it can, however, be supported through SoTL communities of practice (CoPs). The principles of SoTL and of cultivating CoPs can play a key role in designing these CoPs for “aliveness”. In this action research study, feedback and outputs from the SoTL CoP members at a South African higher education institution indicate that to support researchers optimally, a flexible approach, embedded in an organised schedule and integrated with sound research practices, ensures a sense of “aliveness” for members that participate in the CoP.
“Our theatre is society”: Perceptions and practices of university-based African Centres of Excellence regarding community engagement and the third mission of higher education
Authors: Du Plooy B , von Moellendorff M
Published: April 2024

In the historical higher education (HE) context of early post-independence Africa, little was done to unpack or critique the dominant notion of African universities as “developmental” and to create workable models for the future. The resultant conflictual role of African universities, caught between the demands of academic excellence, on the one hand, and local demands of development and regional and communal impact, on the other, have not yet been adequately resolved. Conceptually and organisationally, “engagement”, “transfer” and “outreach” activities serve as mechanisms to bridge the divide between the traditional academy and the needs and expectations of societal stakeholders located outside of formal HE structures. This is now often referred to as the third mission (TM) of HE, the first and second missions being teaching and research. In recent years, many of the existing DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) African Centres of Excellence (ACE) have established partnerships and networks with actors from the political, social and economic sector to increase their relevance and impact in their regions, especially relating to Sustainable Development Goals. Against this backdrop, a qualitative exploratory study was conducted to determine the experiences and perceptions of participating representatives from ten ACE, located in their different and specific regional and societal contexts, about their university-society community engagement (CE) or TM activities. This article reports on the findings of this study, which contributes to the larger aims of identifying long-term synergies and collaboration potential and the development of conceptual models that are scalable. The findings of this study can form an adaptable basis for future TM-CE projects and for possible future research projects about such activities in HE.
Duloxetine and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Phone-based Support for the Treatment of Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: Study Protocol of the PRECICE Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Ang Dennis C , Davuluri Swetha , Kaplan Sebastian , Keefe Francis , Rini Christine , Miles Christopher , Chen Haiying
Published: April 2024

Background: Chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) is the most common, disabling, and costly of all pain conditions. While evidence exists for the efficacy of both duloxetine and web-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as monotherapy, there is a clear need to consider study of treatment components that may complement each other. In addition, given the reported association between patient’s adherence and treatment outcomes, strategies are needed to enhance participant’s motivation to adopt and maintain continued use of newly learned pain coping skills from CBT.
Methods: Two hundred eighty participants will be recruited from the primary care clinics of a large academic health care system in North Carolina. Participants with CMP will be randomized to one of 3 treatment arms: (1) combination treatment (duloxetine + web-based self-guided CBT) with phone-based motivational interviewing (MI), (2) combination treatment without phone-based MI and (3) duloxetine monotherapy. Participants will be in the study for 24 weeks and will be assessed at baseline, week 13, and week 25. The primary outcome is the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI)-Global Pain Severity score, which combines BPI pain severity and BPI pain interference. Secondary measures include between-group comparisons in mean BPI pain severity and BPI pain interference scores. Data collection and outcome assessment will be blinded to treatment group assignment.
Discussion: This randomized controlled trial (RCT) will determine if combination treatment with duloxetine and web-based CBT is superior to duloxetine monotherapy for the management of CMP. Furthermore, this RCT will determine the effectiveness of phone-based motivational interviewing in promoting the continued practice of pain coping skills; thereby, enhancing treatment outcomes.
Trial Registration: NCT04395001. Registered in ClinicalTrials.gov on May 15, 2020.