bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multifunctional barium titanate ceramics via chemical modification tuning phase structure
Authors: Zhao Chunlin , Huang Yanli , Wu Jiagang
Published: August 2020

Global environmental concerns on the toxicity of lead‐based piezoelectrics impel the great mass fervor on investigations of lead‐free alternatives. Barium titanate (BaTiO3, BT) ceramics, the first discovered perovskite ferroelectrics, were widely employed to fabricate dielectric capacitors from 1950s. Since a piezoelectric breakthrough was achieved via chemical modification, intensive researches have been performed embracing lead‐free BT‐based piezoelectrics and their extensional functionalities. In this review, we encompass the state‐of‐the‐art progress on chemical modification tuning phase structure toward advanced electrical properties in BT‐based ceramics. Generally, modulated regularity of cations substitution on phase transition is summarized and clarified. Then, we highlight the common methodologies of phase structure (phase boundary, relaxor phase, room‐temperature phase transition, etc.) design for optimizing piezoelectricity, electrostrictive strain, electrocaloric, dielectric energy storage or permittivity performances, and cover the noticeable developments and relevant physical mechanisms. Finally, perspectives and challenges on future research issues are featured. This review proposes to exert the significant guidance and service for material design of BT‐based and other lead‐free perovskite materials with superior functionalities.

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Is elevated microsatellite alterations at selected tetranucleotide repeats (EMAST)‐negative/MSI‐high colorectal cancer a distinct subtype of the disease?
Authors: Park Yeshong , Kim Duck‐Woo , Hong Yun Ji , Park Kyoung Un , Nam Soo Kyung , Na Hee Young , Lee Hye Seung , Kim Min Hyun , Oh Heung‐Kwon , Kang Sung‐Bum
Published: August 2020

Background and Objectives

Microsatellite instability (MSI) plays a prognostic and predictive role in colorectal cancer (CRC). Elevated microsatellite alterations at selected tetranucleotide repeats (EMAST), a novel type of MSI, was recently identified.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of a prospective cohort database was performed. Patients who attempted curative surgery for MSI‐high (MSI‐H) CRC and had available testing results of EMAST were included for analysis. The difference in clinical characteristics, immunohistochemistry profile, and 3‐year recurrence‐free and overall survival between EMAST‐negative and EMAST‐positive tumors was measured.

Results

EMAST status was successfully evaluated in 86 cases among patients who received EMAST testing, and only 16.3% (14/86) of these patients were EMAST‐negative/MSI‐H. Patients with EMAST‐negative tumors were younger; their tumors exhibited well differentiation, less venous invasion, and greater mutS homolog 3 expression. There was no distant metastasis or cancer‐specific death among EMAST‐negative patients. Yet no statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in 3‐year overall or recurrence‐free survival.

Conclusions

Patients with EMAST‐negative/MSI‐H CRC seem to have different clinicopathological characteristics. Future large‐scale studies could clarify the role of EMAST genotype as a sub‐classifier of MSI‐H CRC.
Vegan tours in China: Motivation and benefits
Authors: Li Shanshi , Liu Xiao‐xiao , Cai Songyin , Scott Noel
Published: August 2020

This study examines a phenomenon that has recently emerged in China—vegan tours. An exploratory case study was conducted to examine the features of a vegan tour (VT) to Wuyi Mountain, explore tourist's motivations for joining, and their benefits from such a tour. Motivations include personal vegan food preferences, changing family members' attitudes toward vegan food, and visiting local attractions. The vegan packaged tour includes vegan meals and activities emphasizing self‐reflection and eudemonic benefits, such as personal growth and mindfulness. This study provides an in‐depth understanding of VT and has implications for developing meaningful food tourism experiences.
Kinesiotaping as a Potential Therapeutic Approach in Functional Movement Disorders
Authors: Turgunkhujaev Oybek , Kupreychik Vasily , Seliverstov Yury
Published: August 2020

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Therapeutic potential of phenylethanoid glycosides: A systematic review
Authors: Wu Lipeng , Georgiev Milen I. , Cao Hui , Nahar Lutfun , El‐Seedi Hesham R. , Sarker Satyajit D. , Xiao Jianbo , Lu Baiyi
Published: August 2020

Phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs) are generally water‐soluble phenolic compounds that occur in many medicinal plants. Until June 2020, more than 572 PhGs have been isolated and identified. PhGs possess antibacterial, anticancer, antidiabetic, anti‐inflammatory, antiobesity, antioxidant, antiviral, and neuroprotective properties. Despite these promising benefits, PhGs have failed to fulfill their therapeutic applications due to their poor bioavailability. The attempts to understand their metabolic pathways to improve their bioavailability are investigated. In this review article, we will first summarize the number of PhGs compounds which is not accurate in the literature. The latest information on the biological activities, structure–activity relationships, mechanisms, and especially the clinical applications of PhGs will be reviewed. The bioavailability of PhGs will be summarized and factors leading to the low bioavailability will be analyzed. Recent advances in methods such as bioenhancers and nanotechnology to improve the bioavailability of PhGs are also summarized. The existing scientific gaps of PhGs in knowledge are also discussed, highlighting research directions in the future.
Hydrogen donors to replace aromatic amine based photoinitiating systems
Authors: Sprick Elodie , Becht Jean‐Michel , Tigges Thomas , Neuhaus Kira , Weber Christoph , Lalevée Jacques
Published: August 2020

Based on our previous work, we propose here four new hydrogen donors to replace aromatic amines currently used in the camphorquinone/amine photoinitiating system. These new proposed coinitiators are used in three component initiating systems for the polymerization of methacrylates under blue light irradiation (LED@477 nm). These compounds act both as coinitiators and copolymerizable monomers. Therefore, they are much less subject to migration. Bleaching properties are also studied, and good results are obtained after polymerization.
Incorporating research into the undergraduate wildlife management curriculum
Authors: Ortiz Janel L. , Conkey April A. Torres , Brennan Leonard A. , Fedynich LaVonne , Green Marybeth
Published: August 2020

We incorporated a course‐based undergraduate research experience (CURE) into a Wildlife Management Techniques course to improve student skills and confidence in bird identification and research, study design, and scientific writing. The course objective was to provide hands‐on experiences for students and give them exposure to field methods used in wildlife science. We added a bird observation study to the existing course curriculum where students formulated a research question, designed a 4‐week study to address the question, and wrote a report in scientific journal style. Students (n = 38) were given a pre‐survey and a post‐survey with Likert statements and a quiz on bird identification. We expected that students would improve in their perceived confidence in science practices, knowledge of bird species, and interest in bird ecology. We observed improved perceived confidence in the science practice of data organization. Students improved their ability to identify bird species by an average of 18%. However, students had no change in bird ecology interest prior to and after the study. Eighty‐nine and 97% of students agreed that the course helped them improve their bird identification and research skills, respectively. Adding this research experience allowed students to expand their skills, exposed them to research concepts, and provided a collaborative working environment that can make them more marketable for future employment or graduate school opportunities.
Risk of major depressive disorder in Japanese cancer patients: A matched cohort study using employer‐based health insurance claims data
Authors: Akechi Tatsuo , Mishiro Izumi , Fujimoto Shinji , Murase Katsuhito
Published: August 2020

Objective

Patients with cancer are at high risk of depression. However, the risk of major depressive disorder (MDD) after cancer diagnosis has not been studied in a population setting in Japan. This cohort study used a Japanese medical claims database to examine time to MDD in cancer patients and the risk of MDD (hazard ratio; HR) compared with matched cancer‐free controls.

Methods

Primary endpoint was time to MDD (starting 6 months before cancer diagnosis) in adult (18–74 years) cancer patients; secondary endpoint was time to MDD (6 months before to 12 months after cancer diagnosis) in a matched cohort of cancer patients and cancer‐free controls. Multivariate analyses were performed to determine HRs for all cancers and for each cancer site.

Results

Of 35 008 cancer patients (mean age, 53.3 years), 2201 (6.3%) were diagnosed with MDD within 66 months. Matched cancer patients (n = 30 372) had an elevated risk of MDD compared with cancer‐free controls (n = 303 720; HR [95% confidence interval] 2.96 [2.77–3.16]). MDD risk was highest in patients with multiple cancers, pancreatic cancer, and brain cancer. Compared with middle‐aged patients, risk was higher in patients <40 years old and lower in patients ≥65 years old; risk tended to be higher in women than in men.

Conclusions

Compared with cancer‐free individuals, Japanese patients with cancer, mostly <65 years old, had an almost threefold higher risk of developing MDD within 12 months of cancer diagnosis. Physicians should watch for MDD in cancer patients and treat when necessary.
Understanding how e‐health interventions meet psychosocial needs of breast cancer patients: The pathways of influence on quality of life and cancer concerns
Authors: Kim Sojung C. , Hawkins Robert P. , Shah Dhavan V. , Gustafson David H. , Baker Timothy B.
Published: August 2020

Objective

This investigation explores how using different e‐health interventions facilitates positive psychosocial changes and how these changes reduce cancer concerns and improve quality of life in breast cancer patients over time.

Methods

A total of 326 breast cancer patients were randomly assigned to one of three e‐health interventions: (a) Internet only, (b) the Comprehensive Health Enhancement Support System information and support services (CHESS‐IS), or (c) CHESS with mentor. Proximal health outcomes such as information overload, emotional functioning, and social support were measured alongside distal outcomes like cancer concerns and quality of life. Participants completed surveys at four time points: pretest as a baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months.

Results

Both interventions were effective in improving patient health beyond Internet only but they differed in type of change mechanism and clinical benefit. The CHESS‐IS enhanced proximal outcomes at 3 months through improved information competence. The CHESS with mentor intervention reduced breast cancer concerns at 6 months, mediated mainly by emotional‐social competence and emotional functioning.

Conclusions

Using e‐health interventions like CHESS can help patients improve cancer information management skills and emotional functioning, contributing to better short‐term health outcomes. Adding a human mentor can enhance the benefits of CHESS use, extending the experience among breast cancer patients. Theoretical, practical, and clinical implications of the study results are discussed.
Influence Mechanism of Barium Interface Layer on the Interfacial Properties of n‐Type 4H‐SiC Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Capacitors
Authors: Bai Zhiqiang , Tang Xiaoyan , Zhang Yimeng , Jia Yifan , Jie Jiamin , Song Qingwen , Zhang Yuming
Published: August 2020

The 4H‐SiC/SiO2 interface quality can be significantly improved by adding an alkaline earth metal interface layer. To study the passivation mechanism of the alkaline earth metal barium (Ba), a supercell model with a transition layer is established. As shown in the results from first‐principles calculations, the bandgap increases and the density of states decreases when SiBaO or OBaO structures are introduced into the transition layer. 4H‐SiC/Ba interface layer/SiO2 capacitors with different annealing conditions are fabricated. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results show that Ba mainly exists in the form of BaO2 (corresponding to the OBaO structure) after annealing in 5% O2 in Ar atmosphere, and there are fewer types of suboxides in the interface than those annealed in Ar. A small amount of Ba also combines with SiO2 to form SiBaxOy compounds (corresponding to the SiBaO structure). The correctness of the theoretical analysis is verified by capacitance–voltage measurements. The physical mechanism of Ba passivation is analyzed in this article, which helps to improve the performance of SiC metal–oxide–semiconductor (MOS) structure devices.
A multivariate CUSUM control chart for monitoring Gumbel's bivariate exponential data
Authors: Xie FuPeng , Sun JinSheng , Castagliola Philippe , Hu XueLong , Tang Anan
Published: August 2020

Exponentially distributed data are commonly encountered in high‐quality processes. Control charts dedicated to the univariate exponential distribution have been extensively studied by many researchers. In this paper, we investigate a multivariate cumulative sum (MCUSUM) control chart for monitoring Gumbel's bivariate exponential (GBE) data. Some tables are provided to determine the optimal design parameters of the proposed MCUSUM GBE chart. Furthermore, both zero‐state and steady‐state properties of the proposed MCUSUM GBE chart for the raw and the transformed GBE data are compared with the multivariate exponentially weighted moving average (MEWMA) chart and the paired individual cumulative sum (CUSUM) chart. The results show that the proposed MCUSUM GBE chart outperforms the other two types of control charts for most shift domains. In addition, an extension to Gumbel's multivariate exponential (GME) distribution is also investigated. Finally, an illustrative example is provided in order to explain how the proposed MCUSUM GBE chart can be implemented in practice.
A survey on performance management of operating rooms and a new KPI proposal
Authors: Sonmez Volkan , Pintelon Liliane
Published: August 2020

Performance management of operating rooms is of great importance in hospital management. From the patients' point of view, operating room capacity management ensures available capacity when needed and thus ensuring short (er) waiting time. From the hospital point of view, efficiently and effectively managing these expensive resources is a major concern. Because there are too many performance indicators with a lack of standardization on definitions and there is no one‐size‐fit‐all metric that can assess the overall performance, how to measure is still a challenging question. This paper starts with describing the operating room's characteristics and presents a systematic literature survey exploring different sources for information on operating room performance management. The literature is screened for lists of performance indicators currently used by managers. Aside from the nature of indicators, the way these indicators are used is also investigated. The literature ends with the suggestion of a new key performance indicator (overall operating room effectiveness [OORE]) that is intended to be used in measuring the overall performance of operating rooms from a lean thinking perspective. To increase the ability of finding root causes of low performance, a delay categorization framework is also proposed. Implementation of the KPI is illustrated using a real‐world data. In the conclusion, all the elements studied are brought together, and recommendations for research and practice are formulated.
Resilient interval consensus in robust networks
Authors: Shang Yilun
Published: August 2020

This paper considers the resilient interval consensus problems for continuous‐time time‐varying multi‐agent systems when a normal agent is surrounded by no more than r misbehaving agents. Each normal agent individually proposes a constraint interval which specifies their acceptable consensus range and misbehaving agents are anonymous and exert different arbitrary rules posing threats to the global performance of the systems. On the basis of our purely distributed resilient interval consensus strategy, we showed that if the network is (2r + 1)‐robust and the interval intersection is nonempty, the normal agents are able to reach an agreement with the final consensus equilibrium in the interval intersection. A numerical example is presented to illustrate the theoretical results.
Regression with a right‐censored predictor using inverse probability weighting methods
Authors: Matsouaka Roland A. , Atem Folefac D.
Published: August 2020

In a longitudinal study, measures of key variables might be incomplete or partially recorded due to drop‐out, loss to follow‐up, or early termination of the study occurring before the advent of the event of interest. In this paper, we focus primarily on the implementation of a regression model with a randomly censored predictor. We examine, particularly, the use of inverse probability weighting methods in a generalized linear model (GLM), when the predictor of interest is right‐censored, to adjust for censoring. To improve the performance of the complete‐case analysis and prevent selection bias, we consider three different weighting schemes: inverse censoring probability weights, Kaplan‐Meier weights, and Cox proportional hazards weights. We use Monte Carlo simulation studies to evaluate and compare the empirical properties of different weighting estimation methods. Finally, we apply these methods to the Framingham Heart Study data as an illustrative example to estimate the relationship between age of onset of a clinically diagnosed cardiovascular event and low‐density lipoprotein among cigarette smokers.
Semiconductive Covalent Organic Frameworks: Structural Design, Synthesis, and Application
Authors: Wang Shizhao , Xu Xiaoyi , Yue Yan , Yu Kunshan , Shui Qingjun , Huang Ning , Chen Hongzheng
Published: August 2020

Semiconducting polymers with ordered structures and self‐segregated nanophases are highly desirable in the development of high‐performance photovoltaic devices. Based on the reticular chemistry, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have emerged as an attractive material platform with crystalline structure and intrinsic porosity, which can be obtained through the combination of the predesigned topological diagrams and bottom‐up synthetic strategy. Significantly, various functional building blocks can be assembled into the skeletons of COFs at atomic precision, thus accurately regulating and controlling their semiconducting properties. Herein, an overview on recent advances of semiconducting COFs, sketching the programs from structural design to synthetic approach and functional exploration is given.
Supramolecular Immunotherapy of Cancer Based on the Self‐Assembling Peptide Design
Authors: Chang Rui , Yan Xuehai
Published: August 2020

Supramolecular peptide assemblies with specific motifs have the advantages of high immunogenicity, regulated immune response, and increased multiple functions in improving the performance of cancer immunotherapy, compared with molecular peptide immunotherapy. These peptide‐based assemblies with structural and functional versatility can serve as immunotherapeutic agents such as antigens, adjuvants, drug delivery carriers, or immunomodulators. This article reviews the effects of supramolecular peptide assemblies on cancer immunotherapy and highlights the unique role of supramolecular assembly strategies in regulating the immunotherapeutic performance. The mechanism of how the peptide supramolecular self‐assembly affects the performance of immunotherapy is critically emphasized. The summary of peptide supramolecular immunotherapy provides a reference for the precise design of adjustable and multifunctional immunotherapeutic agents, and shows that peptide self‐assembly has great application prospects in cancer immunotherapy.
Nanoplasmonic Nanorods/Nanowires from Single to Assembly: Syntheses, Physical Mechanisms and Applications
Authors: Fan Jianuo , Sun Mengtao
Published: August 2020

Gold nanorods are anisotropic and exhibit different optical characteristics in both transverse and longitudinal directions, so the plasmon resonance in the near‐infrared region will reflect two absorption peaks. Because of strong enhancements of electromagnetic fields of gold nanorods, gold nanorods are widely used in medical treatment, biological detection, sensors, solar cells and other fields. Since rapid developments of gold nanorods, it is necessary to sort out the recent achievements. In this review, we select three classifications of single nanorods/nanowires, dimers and assembled nanorods to introduce their syntheses methods, optical properties and applications respectively. We firstly overview the history of nanorods/nanowires syntheses and summarize the improvement of the commonly utilized seed‐mediated growth synthesis method; and then, physically, nano‐plasmonic and optical properties of single and assembled nanorod/nanowires are concluded in detail. Lastly, we mainly summarize the recent advances in applications and provide perspective in different fields.
Discourses on Zakat and Its Implementation in Contemporary Ghana
Authors: Weiss Holger
Published: August 2020

The chapter discusses horizontal and vertical forms of philanthropy. It focuses on the contemporary discourse on zakat as a tool for the eradication of poverty among imams and Muslim scholars in Ghana. Traditionally, various forms of horizontal informal philanthropy such as zakat and sadaqa constituted the basic form of private support within the Muslim community. Although zakat is discussed in public in the mosques, the collection and distribution of zakat remain largely a private affair. However, a new discourse emerged about two decades ago. The core idea of this discourse the utilization of zakat as an instrument for poverty eradication and the empowerment of the Muslim community by institutionalizing its collection and distribution. Several initiatives have been launched since then, resulting in vertical and institutionalized philanthropy operated by various national Muslim faith-based NGOs, the most prominent one being the Zakat and SadaqaTrust Fund of Ghana, established by the Muslim Caucus in Parliament in 2010. In addition, both the Ahlus-Sunna Wa-Jam’a and the Ghana Muslim Mission have established regional zakat funds. Nevertheless, while Muslim scholars generally are in favour of an institutionalization of zakat, the negative comments on such initiatives indicate that “ordinary” Muslims are not. Instead, it seems as if the traditional way of giving one’s zakat directly to the poor and needy is preferred.
Stability of Wall Boundary Condition Procedures for Discontinuous Galerkin Spectral Element Approximations of the Compressible Euler Equations
Authors: Hindenlang Florian J. , Gassner Gregor J. , Kopriva David A.
Published: August 2020

We perform a linear and entropy stability analysis for wall boundary condition procedures for discontinuous Galerkin spectral element approximations of the compressible Euler equations. Two types of boundary procedures are examined. The first defines a special wall boundary flux that incorporates the boundary condition. The other is the commonly used reflection condition where an external state is specified that has an equal and opposite normal velocity. The internal and external states are then combined through an approximate Riemann solver to weakly impose the boundary condition. We show that with the exact upwind and Lax-Friedrichs solvers the approximations are energy dissipative, with the amount of dissipation proportional to the square of the normal Mach number. Standard approximate Riemann solvers, namely Lax-Friedrichs, HLL, HLLC are entropy stable. The Roe flux is entropy stable under certain conditions. An entropy conserving flux with an entropy stable dissipation term (EC-ES) is also presented. The analysis gives insight into why these boundary conditions are robust in that they introduce large amounts of energy or entropy dissipation when the boundary condition is not accurately satisfied, e.g. due to an impulsive start or under resolution.
On the Use of Hermite Functions for the Vlasov–Poisson System
Authors: Fatone Lorella , Funaro Daniele , Manzini Gianmarco
Published: August 2020

We apply a second-order semi-Lagrangian spectral method for the Vlasov–Poisson system, by implementing Hermite functions in the approximation of the distribution function with respect to the velocity variable. Numerical tests are performed on a standard benchmark problem, namely the two-stream instability test case. The approach uses two independent sets of Hermite functions, based on Gaussian weights symmetrically placed with respect to the zero velocity level. An experimental analysis is conducted to detect a reasonable location of the two weights in order to improve the approximation properties.
High-Order Finite Element Methods for Interface Problems: Theory and Implementations
Authors: Xiao Yuanming , Zhai Fangman , Zhang Linbo , Zheng Weiying
Published: August 2020

We propose arbitrary order extended finite element (XFE) methods for solving both two and three dimensional elliptic interface problems. The meshes in our methods do not need to fit the interface and discontinuous Galerkin (DG) schemes are used in the vicinity of the interface to incorporate the transmission conditions between subdomains. Optimal error estimates in the piecewise H1-norm and in the L2-norm are rigorously proved for the scheme. Two implementation aspects are addressed in this paper: (1) An optimal multigrid solver is introduced for the generated linear system, which converges uniformly with respect to the mesh size. (2) A high order algorithm is presented to compute the integral over elements intersecting the interface. Numerical experiments are reported to support the theoretical results.
An Inexact Petrov-Galerkin Approximation for Gas Transport in Pipeline Networks
Authors: Egger Herbert , Kugler Thomas , Shashkov Vsevolod
Published: August 2020

This paper studies the discretization of gas transport in pipeline networks by an inexact Petrov-Galerkin method. A full convergence analysis is presented for single pipes under the assumption of a linear friction law and the possible extension to pipe networks is discussed. The generalization to nonlinear gas transport models and the efficient implementation by hybridization is investigated numerically.
SAV Method Applied to Fractional Allen-Cahn Equation
Authors: Zhou Xiaolan , Azaiez Mejdi , Xu Chuanju
Published: August 2020

Fractional differential equations are becoming increasingly used as a modeling tool for processes associated with anomalous diffusion or spatial heterogeneity. We consider in this paper a nonlocal phase transition model, in particular described by the Allen-Cahn equation. Precisely, we deal with a fractional Allen-Cahn equation (FACE) withspectraldefinition of the fractional Laplacian. For the space discretization, we first use spectral Galerkin method to solve the eigenvalue problem (EVP) for the Laplacian operator with homogeneous Neumann boundary condition, then we employ the computed eigenfunctions as trial and test bases to solve the FACE. For the time discretization, based on the scalar auxiliary variable (SAV) approach, we construct unconditionally second-order energy stable BDF scheme (SAV/BDF2). Finally, the developed algorithm is used to simulate the phase evolution of a benchmark problem.
Entropy Conserving and Kinetic Energy Preserving Numerical Methods for the Euler Equations Using Summation-by-Parts Operators
Authors: Ranocha Hendrik
Published: August 2020

Summation-by-parts operators can be used in the context of finite difference and discontinuous Galerkin methods to create discretisations mimicking properties given at the continuous level such as entropy conservation. Recently, there has been some interest in schemes for the Euler equations that additionally preserve the kinetic energy. However, some these methods resulted in undesired and unexpected changes of the kinetic energy in numerical experiments of Gassner et al. (J Comput Phys 327:39–66, 2016). Here, analytical insights into kinetic energy preservation are given and new entropy conservative and kinetic energy preserving numerical fluxes are proposed.
A Spectral Element Reduced Basis Method for Navier–Stokes Equations with Geometric Variations
Authors: Hess Martin W. , Quaini Annalisa , Rozza Gianluigi
Published: August 2020

We consider theNavier-Stokesequations in a channel with a narrowing of varying height. The model is discretized with high-order spectral elementansatzfunctions, resulting in 6372 degrees of freedom. The steady-state snapshot solutions define a reduced order space through a standard POD procedure. The reduced order space allows to accurately and efficiently evaluate the steady-state solutions for different geometries. In particular, we detail different aspects of implementing the reduced order model in combination with a spectral element discretization. It is shown that an expansion in element-wise local degrees of freedom can be combined with a reduced order modelling approach to enhance computational times in parametric many-query scenarios.
Recurrence Relations for a Family of Orthogonal Polynomials on a Triangle
Authors: Olver Sheehan , Townsend Alex , Vasil Geoffrey M.
Published: August 2020

This paper derives sparse recurrence relations between orthogonal polynomials on a triangle and their partial derivatives, which are analogous to recurrence relations for Jacobi polynomials. We derive these recurrences in a systematic fashion by introducing ladder operators that map an orthogonal polynomial to another by incrementing or decrementing its associated parameters by one. We apply the results to efficiently calculating the Laplacian of polynomial approximations of functions on the triangle, using polynomial degrees in the thousands, i.e., millions of degrees of freedom.
Hermite Methods in Time
Authors: Gu Rujie , Hagstrom Thomas
Published: August 2020

We study time-stepping methods based on Hermite-Birkhoff interpolation. For linear problems, the methods are designed so that their stability characteristics are identical to those of standard implicit Runge–Kutta methods based on Gauss-Legendre quadrature (Hairer and Wanner, Solving ordinary differential equations II, stiff and differential-algebraic problems. Springer, New York, 1996). However, in contrast, only a single nonlinear system whose dimension matches that of the original problem must be solved independent of the method order; that is, they are singly implicit. Besides outlining the construction of the methods and establishing some of their basic properties, we carry out illustrative computations both on standard test problems and a spectral discretization of an initial-boundary value problem for the Schrödinger equation.
Cultural Constructions of Piracy During the Crisis Over Slavery
Authors: Ganser Alexandra
Published: August 2020

This chapter begins with the first foreign policy crisis with which the U.S. was confronted: the war with so-called ‘Barbary pirates’ at the beginning of the nineteenth century and its de-legitimizing rhetoric of an ‘Oriental’ pirate Other. Captivity tales about abduction and enslavement by Muslim ‘pirates’ like Royall Tyler’s Algerine Captive (1824) re-directed piracy from North Africa to North America, questioning the legitimacy of slavery at home and thus helping prepare the grounds for nineteenth-century abolitionist discourses. The chapter shows that during the crisis over slavery in the mid-nineteenth century, piracy signified the criticality of legitimacy in the context of a Black Atlantic literature, exemplified by Trinidadian M. Maxwell Philip’s Emmanuel Appadocca (1854) and Herman Melville’s “Benito Cereno” (1855/1856). While Philip explores piracy in a plot of revenge, Melville’s novella reflects the slavery crisis as fundamentally a crisis of knowing and telling, voicing ontological insecurity as masters and slaves become indistinguishable over suspicions of piracy. The same conjuncture is used in a different context in popular anti-Southern discourses during the Civil War, as decorated letter envelopes (explored in the final section) depicted Jefferson Davis and the seceded South as prototypical pirates.
Crowdfunding Prospects in New Emerging Markets: The Cases of India and Bangladesh
Authors: Suresh Krishnamurthy , Øyna Stine , Munim Ziaul Haque
Published: August 2020

Crowdfunding is a viable approach to financing start-ups and supporting social causes in advanced economies. The World Bank estimates a vast potential for crowdfunding also in emerging markets. The South Asia region consists of predominantly collectivist societies where helping others through donations is an integral part of prevailing religious obligations and societal norms. Thus, these countries share certain cultural and religious traits that are highly consistent with the principles of crowdfunding. In the current chapter, we explore the history, ongoing activity, and future prospects of crowdfunding in new emerging markets, specifically, India and Bangladesh. We observe that India is largely dominating the crowdfunding activity in the region, which is otherwise limited.
Crowdfunding in Africa: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Chao Emmanuel James , Serwaah Priscilla , Baah-Peprah Prince , Shneor Rotem
Published: August 2020

The chapter presents the current state of crowdfunding research and practice in Africa while outlining opportunities and challenges associated with them. Conditions of growing popularity of digital and mobile finance, low penetration of traditional financial institutions, and a long cultural heritage of communal mutual support may enhance crowdfunding uptake. On the other hand, conditions of unclear regulation, relatively low levels of internet access, and societies characterized by low social trust may all hinder crowdfunding uptake. Accordingly, African crowdfunding is at its infancy and involves transitory hybrid practices of early adoption, often involving reliance on foreign contributors via donations and pro-social lending platforms. To ensure future development, stakeholders should engage in relevant policy development, technological adaptations, raising public awareness, reducing user entry barriers, and creating incentives for trial.
Israeli Crowdfunding: A Reflection of Its Entrepreneurial Culture
Authors: Efrat Kalanit , Gilboa Shaked , Berliner Daniel
Published: August 2020

Crowdfunding has its roots deep in the Israeli entrepreneurship ecosystem. Its characterizing elements of—collective individualism combined with flat social hierarchies, low degree of separation, mandatory army service that enforces innovative thinking and improvisation, Chutzpah, and finally high tolerance for failure, all provide fertile ground for entrepreneurship and facilitate innovative approaches to entrepreneurship funding such as crowdfunding. In light of this, the growth of crowdfunding in Israel is not surprising. While the equity crowdfunding leads the field, rewards and donations platforms are more known and popular, indeed the brand name of the senior rewards and donations platform ‘Headstart’ became a nickname for crowdfunding action in Israel. In this chapter we illustrate the foundations of crowdfunding in Israel, its current state, and likely future development.
Crowdfunding in Europe: Between Fragmentation and Harmonization
Authors: Wenzlaff Karsten , Odorović Ana , Ziegler Tania , Shneor Rotem
Published: August 2020

The European crowdfunding market is growing rapidly, especially in continental Europe. At the same time, cross-border activities are still constrained. Fragmented markets, especially caused by differences in regulation, are an obstacle to growth of crowdfunding platforms. The European Union introduced the European Crowdfunding Service Provider (ECSP) Regime in 2019. This harmonized regime applies to crowdfunding platforms intermediating equity and debt investments between businesses and retail investors. This chapter discusses evidence on the fragmented nature of the European crowdfunding market, while presenting the ECSP directive, as a critical regulatory initiative towards harmonization in Europe, and the boosting of cross-border crowdfunding in the region.
The Future of Crowdfunding Research and Practice
Authors: Shneor Rotem , Flåten Bjørn-Tore , Zhao Liang
Published: August 2020

This chapter critically reflects on current crowdfunding research and practice while highlighting eight dilemmas that are expected to shape the future of crowdfunding. Each dilemma is critically discussed and is followed by relevant suggestions for future research. These dilemmas include: (1) the balance between idealism and pragmatism; (2) the extent of cooperation between crowdfunding platforms and traditional financial institutions; (3) measurement of crowdfunding success and performance in financial and socio-economic terms; (4) the balance between quantity and quality in campaigns approved for publication by platforms; (5) domestic versus international growth of crowdfunding platforms; (6) manoeuvring between facilitation of collective decisions as crowd wisdom while avoiding crowd madness, as well as intentional and unintentional harmful crowd behaviour; (7) the focus of platforms’ technological developments in terms of efficiency gains versus community support; and (8) the balance between informing the public and constraining our understanding of crowdfunding in educational efforts.
Lending Crowdfunding: Principles and Market Development
Authors: Ziegler Tania , Shneor Rotem
Published: August 2020

Crowdlending has emerged as the leading form of crowdfunding in terms of scope and scale. For lenders, it offers new investment opportunities, often offering better returns than some alternative investment channels, as well as opening to incorporate new small-scale investors that have not enjoyed such opportunities before. For borrowers, it offers new channels to access credit, often either offered at better terms or by including groups that have previously been marginalized and underserved by traditional credit service providers. In the current chapter we present the brief history of crowdlending, its diversity of models, the current state or the industry, as well as the underlying mechanisms and principles guiding platform operations including risk assessment and the matching of borrowers and lenders. The discussion is supported by a review of related research, while highlighting trajectories of industry development trends. The chapter concludes with suggestions for future research and insights for practitioners.
Equity Crowdfunding: Principles and Investor Behaviour
Authors: Lukkarinen Anna
Published: August 2020

The chapter provides a topical summary of the present research knowledge of equity crowdfunding. It describes the typical equity crowdfunding process, investor characteristics, and investor motivations. Recognizing the limited due diligence efforts of the crowd despite the presence of high information asymmetries, the chapter presents the role of platforms in evaluating and preselecting target ventures. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of rapidly observable campaign features and signals of venture quality in investor decision making, while also emphasizing the relevance of experienced investors and the herding tendency of crowdinvestors. The chapter offers a comparison of equity crowdfunding investors with traditional providers of early-stage equity financing including micro funders, angel investors, and venture capital funds. It concludes with a discussion of the challenges and potential of equity crowdfunding.
E-Assessment Service Unit: Beratung, Konzeption und Durchführung von E-Klausuren
Authors: Richter Anja , Daniel Manfred
Published: August 2020

Seit Beginn des optes-Projekts im Jahr 2012 werden an der Dualen Hochschule Baden-Württemberg (DHBW) Karlsruhe die technischen und organisatorischen Voraussetzungen für die Durchführung elektronischer Klausuren erforscht und in Lehrveranstaltungen umgesetzt.
Überfachliche Lernmodule
Authors: Fischer Yvonne
Published: August 2020

Neben der Darbietung mathematischer Inhalte birgt optes mit dem E-Tutoring, den E-Klausuren, dem Mentoring und weiteren Formaten umfassende Inhalte weit über den rein mathematischen Kontext hinaus. Ein Ergebnis dieser weitergreifenden Arbeiten sind die überfachlichen Lernmodule, die sich mit unterschiedlichen Themen rund um das Lernen und die Gestaltung des eigenen Studienalltags beschäftigen.
Gestaltungselemente und Usability
Authors: Derr Katja , Mechelke-Schwede Edith
Published: August 2020

Bei der Gestaltung digitaler (Lern-)Umgebungen spielt die Nutzbarkeit oder Usability eine entscheidende Rolle. Das Design der Oberfläche (des Frontend) ermöglicht es Nutzer*innen, eine Software zu bedienen oder auf einer Website zu navigieren. In ihrer optischen Gestaltung spiegelt sich die interne Struktur einer Software oder Website, und eine geringe Usability wird zu Recht den Eindruck vermitteln, dass ein Programm konzeptionell nicht durchdacht ist.
E-Mentoring
Authors: Hoffmann Louise
Published: August 2020

Als Teilprojekt ist E-Mentoring an das Verbundprojekt optes angebunden, mit dem Ziel, Studienanfänger*Innen zeit- und ortsungebunden den Einstieg in ihr MINTStudium zu erleichtern. In diesem Beitrag wird nach einer kurzen allgemeinen Einführung zum Mentoring-Begriff das E-Mentoring-Konzept der Technischen Hochschule Ostwestfalen-Lippe (TH OWL) vorgestellt und dabei insbesondere auf die Ausbildung sowie die einzelnen Aufgabenbereiche der E-Mentor*innen eingegangen.
Softwareentwicklungen zur Lernprozessbegleitung
Authors: Samoila Oliver
Published: August 2020

optes ist über seine beiden Förderphasen hinweg ein vielseitiges und vielschichtiges Projekt. Es wurden viele inhaltliche und methodische Angebote entwickelt, so ist optes in vielerlei Aspekten ein Forschungs- und Organisationsentwicklungs-, aber vor allem auch ein Praxisprojekt. Der projektinterne Anspruch, entwickelte Angebote inhaltlich und methodisch innovativ, zielgruppenorientiert, attraktiv in der Bedienung und verständlich in der Nutzung zu gestalten, macht optes aber auch zu einem Softwareentwicklungsprojekt.
Qualitätssicherung im optes-Projekt
Authors: Schmidt Christian , Reinmann Gabi
Published: August 2020

Das Verständnis von Qualität und Qualitätssicherung ist nicht eindeutig definiert, sondern befindet sich in einem stetigen Entwicklungsprozess und wird von unterschiedlichen Akteuren (Unternehmen, Kunden, Wissenschaft) sowie projektbezogen auf verschiedenste Weise interpretiert.
Evaluation im Projekt optes
Authors: Schmidt Christian , Marquardt Victoria , Reinmann Gabi , Paul Daria
Published: August 2020

Von Beginn an wurde im optes-Verbundprojekt viel Wert darauf gelegt, dass die Projektarbeit gezielt durch Evaluationen begleitet wird. Der Nutzen dieser Maßnahmen liegt in einem fortlaufenden Prozess der (didaktischen) Qualitätssicherung (Reinmann 2004) sowohl der Ergebnisse des Projekts als auch der Prozesse, um diese Ergebnisse zu erzielen. Die Prozessevaluation diente zunächst dazu, die Zusammenarbeit und den Austausch zwischen den Teilprojekten sukzessive zu verbessern; dies hatte auch indirekt Einfluss auf die Projektergebnisse.
Lernmanagementsysteme als Rahmenbedingung
Authors: Kunkel Matthias
Published: August 2020

Im optes-Projekt wurden eine Vielzahl von inhaltlichen Angeboten entwickelt, die zur Durchführung unterschiedliche softwaretechnische Unterstützung brauchen. Aufgebaut wurde zum Beispiel ein Mathematik-Propädeutikum aus thematisch abgestimmten Vorkursen, in denen Lernmodule und Glossare zur Wissensvermittlung und Tests zum Üben und zum Überprüfen des individuellen Lernstands verwendet werden (siehe Kapitel 14). Elektronische Portfolios wurden benötigt, um den Reflexionsprozess der Lernenden zu unterstützen und ihre Kenntnisse und Fähigkeiten im Rahmen des E-Tutoring-Ansatzes zu dokumentieren (siehe Kapitel 5).
Transfer der Ergebnisse in ein Anwendernetzwerk
Authors: Köhler Daniel
Published: August 2020

Von Anfang an bestand ein zentraler Kerngedanke des optes-Projekts darin, die intern entwickelten Angebote auch der interessierten Öffentlichkeit zur Verfügung zu stellen.
Cultivating Teacher Resilience: Introduction
Authors: Mansfield Caroline F.
Published: August 2020

This volume brings together a programme of research focused on teacher resilience and includes chapters from conceptual, empirical and applied perspectives. The inspiration for this volume stems from two Australian projects: Building Resilience in Teacher Education (BRiTE) and the subsequent Australian Learning and Teaching Fellowship, Staying BRiTE: Promoting Resilience in Higher Education. The chapters follow the journey of interrelated research that has grown across Australia and internationally, highlighting a range of approaches, applications and impact. Each chapter draws on particular aspects of teacher resilience and emphasises the importance of context in cultivating resilience at a range of teacher career stages. Future directions broadening the programme of research are also explored.
Early Career Casual Teachers: The Role of Relationships with Colleagues in Negotiating a Teacher Identity and Developing Resilience
Authors: Dempsey Helen , Mansfield Caroline F. , MacCallum Judith
Published: August 2020

Developing relationships with colleagues has been identified as one way to enhance teacher resilience and assists in negotiating a professional identity. For early career teachers, opportunities to participate in induction and mentoring programmes and engage in professional learning can assist in developing these relationships. However, for early career teachers who can only obtain casual work and work intermittently often in many different schools, these opportunities may be limited. This chapter presents longitudinal, qualitative research that explores how early career casual teachers negotiated their teacher identity. Drawing on data from focus groups, semi-structured interviews and reflective tasks, the chapter shares insights into how relationships are pivotal in the development of a strong teacher identity.
Understanding Teacher Wellbeing Through Job Demands-Resources Theory
Authors: Granziera Helena , Collie Rebecca , Martin Andrew
Published: August 2020

Job demands-resources (JD-R) theory has emerged as one of the most influential conceptual frameworks for interpreting and explaining factors affecting employees’ wellbeing in the workplace. The present chapter provides a broad overview of JD-R theory, and discusses how the theory can be harnessed to further understand the factors influencing teachers’ wellbeing. The chapter also reviews prior research employing JD-R theory in teaching populations, and explores the job demands (e.g., workload, disciplinary issues, time pressure) and job resources (e.g. perceived autonomy support, opportunities for professional learning, and relationships with colleagues) that influence teacher engagement, burnout, and organisational outcomes. Theoretical extensions of the model, such as the inclusion of personal resources (e.g. adaptability, cognitive and behavioural coping, self-efficacy), are further considered to extend knowledge of how teacher wellbeing can be promoted at both an individual and broader organisational level. Finally, the chapter considers the practical implications of how JD-R theory can guide interventions, comprising whole-school efforts, as well as approaches that support individual teachers to maximise their wellbeing.