bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
"Liberated from the Hapsburg yoke": Reference Works for the Slovenian-American Immigration
Authors: Farina Donna M. T. Cr. , Vrbinc Marjeta , Vrbinc Alenka
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT: This article is one of a series studying the reference books created for Slovenian immigrants to the United States. Slovenian immigration is part of the massive emigration at the turn of the twentieth century, especially from central and southern Europe. From 1905 until World War I, a significant number of Slovenians arrived in the US; they settled mostly but not solely in the Midwest and Northeast. The largest concentration of Slovenian immigrants was in Cleveland, Ohio. The article focuses on the megastructure of six reference books created to meet the needs of the Slovenian-American immigrants, published from 1895 to 1919. While some of these reference works are Slovenian–English/English–Slovenian dictionaries, others are grammar books or guides to basic conversation and acclimatization to American life. Such books played an important role in the acculturation of Slovenians in the US; their examination sheds light on the nature of the reference books themselves as well as on the immigrant world in which they were created. Slovenian immigrants are said to have "acquired English with relative speed and facility" (Gobetz 2014, 228). This article is a step in understanding how dictionaries and reference books supported this.
Dictionary Preterition: Promotional Dictionaries to Serve the Greater Good
Authors: McConchie R. W.
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT: Little research has been published on promotional (promo) dictionaries despite large numbers being issued over the years, especially in the US. They take many forms, but all are marketing tools meant to sell a particular product. What they promote does not always accord with the function of a dictionary; indeed, the disparity is often very marked. This article undertakes a preliminary survey, explaining the surprising range and nature of the products promoted as well as the characteristics of some of the dictionaries. We consider in particular the earlier examples, from about 1877–1927, though using promo dictionaries is by no means over, and they continue to be produced. The dictionaries discussed here are largely general lexicographical works, not specialist.
Facing the Systemic Crisis: The Divide in Criticism of the Pandemic State of Emergency
Authors: Heller Jonas
Published: July 2024

Abstract: The article shows how criticism of states of emergency during the COVID-19 pandemic divides into two camps: one complaining about the restriction of democratic processes, the other about the restriction of individual rights. The analysis of this divide exposes the specificity of the pandemic crisis as one without an enemy and as systemic in character. It highlights three aspects of the crisis responses in Western societies: First, the transboundary nexus of (restricted) rights; second, the adherence to an implausible concept of enmity; third, the disjunction of democracy and rights in the context of an authoritarian understanding of freedom.
Towards an Abolitionist Concept of Beauty: The Aesthetics of Counter-Communities
Authors: Loick Daniel
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Many oppressed groups describe their forms of life in aesthetic categories. This article explores the implicit conception of beauty and the shared characteristics of counter-communal aesthetic practices. It reconstructs the hegemonic conception of beauty via a reading of Schiller and explores two exemplary discourses on the beauty of counter-communities: Peter Weiss' reflections on the aesthetics of resistance and Saidiya Hartman's description of Black fugitive aesthetics. What both examples share is that they locate beauty not in harmony, but in conflict and struggle. They lay the foundation for an aesthetic standpoint theory: counter-communities are economically, politically and culturally marginalized, but they are more beautiful than dominant forms of life.
Towards a CMOS compatible refractive index sensor: cointegration of TiN nanohole arrays and Ge photodetectors in a 200 mm wafer silicon technology
Authors: Mai Christian , Peczek Anna , Kroh Aleksandra , Jose Josmy , Reiter Sebastian , Wenger Christian , Fischer Inga Anita
Published: July 2024

In this work, we present the monolithic integration of a TiN nanohole array and a Ge photodetector towards a CMOS compatible fabrication of a refractive index sensor in a 200 mm wafer silicon technology. We developed a technology process that enables fabrication with high yields of around 90%. Ge photodetectors with a Ge layer thickness of 450 nm and an area of 1600 µm2 (40 µm x 40 µm) show dark current densities of around 129 mA/cm2 and responsivities of 0.114 A/W measured by top illumination (TE polarization; λ = 1310 nm; angle of incidence = 14 °) at a reverse bias of 1 V. Nanohole arrays were structured in a 150 nm thick TiN layer. They were integrated into the back end of line and placed spatially close to the Ge photodetectors. After the metallization, passivation, and pad opening, the nanohole arrays were released with the help of an amorphous silicon stop layer. A significant impact of the TiN nanohole arrays on the optical behavior of the photodetector could be proven on the wafer level. Photocurrent measurements by top illumination confirm a strong dependence of optical properties on the polarization of the incident light and the nanohole array design. We demonstrate very stable photocurrents on the wafer level with a standard deviation of σ < 6%.
Plasmonic-enhanced multiparameter direct microcomb spectroscopy
Authors: Zano Eliran , Khrizman Konstantin , Diakonov Andrei , Stern Liron
Published: July 2024

Sensitive spectroscopic analyses of molecular systems are being revolutionized utilizing the broad, equidistant spectra of frequency combs. Recently, photonically integrated frequency combs have emerged through low-power continuous laser pumping of microring resonators, resulting in stable, low-power, and compact frequency combs. Additional important photonic building blocks are plasmonic resonators, which allow exceptional sensitivity to their environment, forming the backbone of many spectroscopic biosensing experiments. However, coupling microcombs with plasmonic systems remains unexplored. Here, we demonstrate the integration of a photonic-circuit-based frequency comb with a water-cladded prism-based plasmonic resonator, enabling compact, broadband direct microcomb plasmonic spectroscopy. Our plasmonic-microcomb cavity-enhanced platform demonstrates high sensitivity and multidimensionality, opening avenues for a range of coherent, broadband, linear, and nonlinear chemical and biosensing applications.
Research on encryption and decryption algorithm of remote sensing image based on face image
Authors: wu shulei , Luo Hui , zhongqiang wu , Zhao Yuchen , Zhang Xianyao , Liu Peiran , Chen Zehua
Published: July 2024

Remote sensing data has found widespread applications in areas such as military monitoring, environmental management, and urban planning. However, the sensitive nature and commercial value of such data make them vulnerable to security risks like unauthorized access, piracy, and tampering. To protect the confidentiality and integrity of remote sensing data, researchers have explored various encryption techniques, including traditional ciphers, chaotic mapping, and deep learning. While some progress has been made, there is still a lack of comprehensive end-to-end solutions that effectively address the security challenges in remote sensing data distribution and utilization.
This research proposes a novel encryption scheme that leverages facial features to enhance security and facilitate seamless interactions between users and distribution endpoints, providing a new perspective for the secure dissemination and application of remote sensing data. The study integrates facial information throughout the entire remote sensing data encryption process. Experimental results demonstrate strong encryption efficiency and reconstruction quality. To advance this field, future research should explore the integration of biometric features, blockchain technology, and edge computing into remote sensing data encryption schemes. By doing so, researchers can develop more efficient and robust solutions, promoting the eventual secure application of remote sensing data in various fields and fully unleashing its scientific, commercial, and social potential.
High-Q Microring Resonators with Bimodal SiN Waveguides: Microwave Photonic Applications
Authors: TIWARI ANUSHKA , Velamuri Ashitosh , Boyapati Ram Mohan , Goswami Arnab , Bhattacharya Enakshi , Das Bijoy Krishna
Published: July 2024

A high-Q microring resonator in all-pass configuration using a low-loss bimodal SiN waveguide design has been demonstrated and explored for microwave photonic applications. We have recorded a Q- as high as ~2X10^6 from such a device design by exciting fundamental mode into the bimodal bus and ring waveguides which was fabricated using in-house conventional silicon photonics process technology. Our experimental results show that an equivalent device design with a single-mode waveguide and fabricated with same fabrication process technology exhibit nearly 7 times lower Q-value (~ 2.5X10^5). The cavity loss is reduced because of the fact that the fundamental guided mode in a bimodal waveguide experiences lower scattering and bend-induced radiation losses (~0.1 dB/cm); scattering losses occurs mainly due to the waveguide sidewall roughness which in fact fabrication process dependent. Such a device has been used further to demonstrate a widely tunable narrow-bandpass microwave photonic filter. The experimental results exhibit a narrowband filter with a 3-dB bandwidth as low as 290 MHz with broad tunability from 5-45 GHz and the side-band rejection of ~30 dB has been recorded. Furthermore, the device was used to demonstrate widely tunable microwave oscillator with a signal-to-sidemode suppression ratio of up to 57-dB. Though both filter and oscillator can be tuned up to 60 GHz, we are limited to characterize it due to the phase modulator bandwidth (40 GHz) and the RF amplifier bandwidth (20 GHz).
Effectiveness of community-based interventions for prevention and control of hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review
Authors: Mengesha Endalkachew Worku , Tesfaye Tadesse Dagget , Boltena Minyahil Tadesse , Birhanu Zewdie , Sudhakar Morankar , Hassen Kalkidan , Kedir Kiya , Mesfin Firaol , Hailemeskel Elifaged , Dereje Melat , Hailegebrel Eskedar A. , Howe Rawleigh , Abebe Finina , Tadesse Yordanos , Girma Eshetu , Wadilo Fisseha , Lake Eyasu Alem , Guta Mistire Teshome , Damtew Bereket , Debebe Adisalem , Tariku Zerihun , Amdisa Demuma , Hiko Desta , Worku Addisu , G/michael Mussie , Abraha Yoseph Gebreyohannes , Ababulgu Sabit Ababor , Fentahun Netsanet
Published: July 2024

Hypertension poses a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa due to various risk factors. Community-based intervention for prevention and control of hypertension is an effective strategy to minimize the negative health outcomes. However, comprehensive systematic review evidence to inform effective community-based interventions for prevention and control of hypertension in low resource settings is lacking. This study aimed to synthesize the effectiveness of community-based interventions on prevention and control of hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa. A comprehensive search for studies was carried out on PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science Core Collection, Embase, Scopus, and Google scholar databases. The result of the review was reported according to PRISMA guidelines. Studies published in English language were included. Two independent reviewers conducted critical appraisal of included studies and extracted the data using predefined excel sheet. Experimental, quasi experimental, cohort and analytical cross-sectional studies conducted on adults who have received community-based interventions for prevention and controls of hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa were included. In this systematic review, a total of eight studies were included, comprising of two interventional studies, two quasi-experimental studies, three cohort studies, and one comparative cross-sectional study. The interventions included health education, health promotion, home-based screening and diagnosis, as well as referral and treatment of hypertensive patients. The sample sizes ranged from 236 to 13,412 in the intervention group and 346 to 6,398 in the control group. This systematic review shows the effect of community-based interventions on reduction of systolic and diastolic blood pressure. However, the existing evidence is inconsistence and not strong enough to synthesize the effect of community-based interventions for the prevention and control of hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa. Hence, further primary studies need on the effect of community-based interventions for the prevention and control of hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa.

Systematic review registration number: PROSPERO CRD42022342823.
The effect of workforce diversity on organizational performance with the mediation role of workplace ethics: Empirical evidence from food and beverage industry
Authors: Mehari Abel Tewolde , Ayenew Birbirsa Zerihun , Nemera Dinber Gemechu
Published: July 2024

This study examines the effect of workforce diversity on organizational performance in the Ethiopian food and beverage sector. It incorporates workplace ethics as a mediator to explain in detail the complex relationship between workforce diversity and organizational performance. The study uses a quantitative design, in which data is collected from a random sample of 359 employees from stratified random firms. A Structural Equation Model (SEM) result verified the viability of three of the four proposed hypotheses. Organizational performance is not directly affected by workforce diversity. But it directly changes in response to the change in workplace ethics. Besides, workplace ethics mediate the relationship between workforce diversity and organizational performance. This implies a more advanced relationship exists between diversity and performance, involving effects transitions via workplace ethics, than what this study initially proposed. Thus, an approach to improving firm performance involves reinforcing good workplace ethics practices. Organizations can mitigate the negative impact of workforce diversity on workplace ethics by creating a more inclusive and ethical workplace. This includes providing training on diversity and inclusion and promoting a culture of respect and understanding.
Factors associated with body mass index in a cohort of older adults: Structural equation modeling analysis
Authors: Camilo Bruno de Freitas , Oliveira Nayara Gomes Nunes , Bolina Alisson Fernandes , Galvão Lucas Lima , Tribess Sheilla , Virtuoso Júnior Jair Sindra
Published: July 2024

Background

Considering the interrelationship between the multiple determinants of nutritional status, analyses are needed to estimate direct and mediated effects between the variables that influence body mass index (BMI) in older adults. We aimed to verify the direct and indirect effects of sociodemographic, behavioral and health conditions on the BMI of older adults in the community.

Methods

This is a longitudinal study based on data collection in 2015 and 2020. Descriptive analysis and Structural Equation Modeling were performed, considering p<0.05.

Results

The sample consisted of 220 older adults with a mean baseline age of 68.86 years (± 7.10). Direct associations of higher BMI value with younger age, higher monthly family income, greater functional disability to perform instrumental activities of daily living and greater number of morbidities were found. In addition, education, gender, moderate to vigorous physical activity were indirectly associated with high BMI.

Conclusion

These findings provide insights into the complex relationship of multiple determinants of nutritional status in older adults and support the design of public health policies that consider the specificities of this population group.
Remdesivir alleviates skin fibrosis by suppressing TGF-β1 signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , Zhang Xiujun , Guo Xiaowei , Li Wenqi , Zhang Tiantian , Chai Dan , Liu Yuming , Chen Li , Ai Xiaoyu , Zhou Tianyuan , Wei Wenguo , Gu Xiaoting , Li Xiaohe , Zhou Honggang
Published: July 2024

Fibrotic skin diseases, such as keloids, are pathological results of aberrant tissue healing and are characterized by overgrowth of dermal fibroblasts. Remdesivir (RD), an antiviral drug, has been reported to have pharmacological activities in a wide range of fibrotic diseases. However, whether RD function on skin fibrosis remains unclear. Therefore, in our study, we explored the potential effect and mechanisms of RD on skin fibrosis both in vivo and in vitro. As expected, the results demonstrated that RD alleviated BLM‐induced skin fibrosis and attenuates the gross weight of keloid tissues in vivo. Further studies suggested that RD suppressed fibroblast activation and autophagy both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, mechanistic research showed that RD attenuated fibroblasts activation by the TGF‐β1/Smad signaling pathway and inhibited fibroblasts autophagy by the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. In summary, our results demonstrate therapeutic potential of RD for skin fibrosis in the future.
Prevalence of BRCA mutation in breast and ovarian cancer among women in India: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Patra Abhilash , Ali Syeda Sana , Devi Ng Marina , Qadeer Amatullah Sana , Kamalakannan Sureshkumar , Nag Shona , Kulkarni Shriniwas Subhash , Rajappa Senthil , Hariharan Nisha , Pant Hira Ballabh , Agiwal Varun , A. Y. Nirupama
Published: July 2024

Purpose

We present a methodically devised protocol for conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at ascertaining the prevalence of BReast CAncer gene (BRCA) mutations in breast and ovarian cancer (BOC) among women in India. The review will include cross-sectional, cohort, case-series, and registry-based studies focusing on females clinically diagnosed with any stage of BOC, tested for BRCA germline mutation and undergone any form of treatment.

Methods

A Cochrane literature search will be carried out to identify all the published and unpublished articles available in English from 2010 till date across various electronic databases including PubMed, Psych Info, SCI, Cochrane Central, Embase, Scopus, IND Med and Google Scholar. A step-by-step process will be followed to select all the relevant studies for final inclusion using Rayyan software. The selection process of the review will be reported based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (PRISMA) checklist. The protocol has been registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023463452). Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist will be used to evaluate the methodological quality of the included studies. The outcome measure will be the prevalence of BRCA1/2 gene mutation in this population. Meta-analysis will be performed to report the pooled prevalence along with 95% confidence interval.

Discussion

The results of this review study will provide valuable insights for clinicians, and policy makers, enabling them to formulate guidelines that underscore the importance of screening for BRCA mutations in cases of BOC.
Socio-demographic determinants of infectious disease-related health literacy and knowledge in Armenia: Results from a nationwide survey
Authors: Sargsyan Zhanna , Grigoryan Zaruhi , Sahakyan Serine , Agopian Anya , Harutyunyan Tsovinar
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The success of health education programs heavily depends on the individuals’ ability to comprehend information and apply it when making decisions regarding health. Low health literacy can lead to poor health in the context of both chronic and infectious diseases, as it influences a range of health-related behaviors. Little is known about infectious disease-related health literacy in Armenia and countries of similar socio-economic profiles. We aimed to quantify the levels of infectious disease-related health literacy and knowledge among the Armenian population and explore the underlying socio-economic factors.

Materials and methods

We conducted a nationwide phone survey among 3483 adults selected via stratified two-stage probability proportional to size sampling in 2021. Descriptive statistics, simple and multivariable regression were used for the analysis.

Results

The average age of respondents was 49.5 years. The majority were female (71.0%) and had at least 12 years of schooling (70.5%). The mean literacy score was 5.64 out of 7 (SD:1.06). The mean infectious disease knowledge score was 2.48 out of 4 (SD:1.19). Younger age, female gender, higher level of education, city residence, being employed, and having higher monthly expenditures were associated with higher mean scores of infectious disease-related health literacy and knowledge. In multivariable linear regression analysis, all the socio-demographic characteristics remained significant for both dependent variables.

Conclusions

The study results revealed population groups with a higher infectious disease-related health literacy and knowledge. Interventions should focus on groups lagging behind to engage them in proper prevention practices to protect themselves and improve health status of Armenian population.
Natural and human-made disaster and associated health outcomes among community-dwelling older adults in India: Findings from LASI, 2017–18
Authors: Muhammad T. , Pai Manacy , Maurya Chanda , Srivastava Shobhit , Kumar Manish
Published: July 2024

Background

Droughts, flash floods, rail accidents, and riots are relatively regular occurrences for those living in many low- and middle-income countries like India. While such natural and human-made disasters put everyone in harm’s way, their toll on specific segments of society–like older adults–is the heaviest. Therefore, in this study, we examine (1) the prevalence of natural and human-made disasters in India and (2) the association between natural and human-made disasters and several physical and mental health outcomes among older Indians.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing data come from the 2017–18 wave 1 of the nationally representative Longitudinal Ageing Study in India, comprising a sample of 29,333 older adults (14,120 males and 15,213 females) aged 60 years and above. Multivariate random intercept multilevel logistic regression analysis is used to examine the association between natural and human-made disasters and poor self-rated health, difficulty in activities of daily living, difficulty in instrumental activities of daily living, communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, depressive symptoms, and psychiatric disorder.

Results

Overall, 3.58% of older adults reported that they have encountered any type of natural or human-made disaster in the past five years. Compared to those who did not experience any (natural or human-made) disaster, older adults who experienced any disaster had a higher prevalence of poor self-rated health (33.4% vs 23.31%), difficulty in activities of daily living (33.94% vs 23.00%), difficulty in instrumental activities of daily living (60.09% vs 47.70%), communicable diseases (49.57% vs 25.86%), depressive symptoms (17.30% vs 8.06%) and psychiatric disorders (3.42% vs 2.78%). After adjusting for the selected variables and the contextual effect, the odds of poor self-rated health (1.64 [1.40, 1.92]), difficulty in activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living (1.89 [1.61, 2.21] and 1.63 [1.40, 1.89]), communicable and non-communicable diseases (2.12 [1.83, 2.46] and 1.38 [1.20, 1.60]), depressive symptoms and psychiatric disorder (1.67 [1.55, 2.05] and 1.52 [1.33, 2.18]) were significantly higher among older adults who experienced a natural or human-made disaster than their counterparts without such an experience.

Conclusions

Relative to their non-exposed counterparts, older Indians who survived natural or human-made disasters endured an inflated risk of poor self-rated health, functional difficulties, communicable and non-communicable diseases, depressive symptoms, and psychiatric disorders. As such, post-disaster efforts should be grounded in policies and programs that address disaster-related trauma and diseases and improve the functional, physical, and psychological facets of health among older disaster survivors.
Memescape Narratives of Romanian Social Movements (2013-2021): A Framing Theory Perspective
Authors: Ungureanu Daniel
Published: July 2024

In the digital age, social movements increasingly leverage memes to shape narratives and mobilize support. This study examines Romanian social movements through the lens of memes from 2013 to 2021, focusing on the Save Roșia Montană Campaign, the Colectiv nightclub fire protests, the #REZIST movement, and anti-restriction protests. Data were collected from popular Romanian Facebook meme pages and other online platforms. Applying framing theory, we seek to determine how memes identify issues, assign blame, propose solutions, and motivate participation. Our findings reveal that Romanian memes often criticize digital activism as superficial, remix mainstream cultural images, and use satire to challenge dominant narratives. This study underscores the potential of memes to reflect and influence public discourse and sociopolitical debates in Romania.
La rebelión de las chicas buenas: representación de las periodistas en las series estadounidenses con mujeres showrunners
Authors: Coronado Ruiz Carlota
Published: July 2024

La ficción televisiva estadounidense ha construido una representación estereotipada de las mujeres periodistas. Sin embargo, en las últimas décadas, y en parte gracias a la incorporación de mujeres a la creación y producción ejecutiva de las series, se han actualizado estos modelos dando mayor protagonismo, complejidad y riqueza dramática a los personajes femeninos. El presente estudio analiza tres ficciones televisivas estadounidenses ambientadas en el mundo del periodismo y creadas por mujeres, Murphy Brown (Diane English), Good Girls Revolt (Dana Calvo) e Inventing Anna (Shonda Rhimes), para comprobar si existen diferencias respecto a los estereotipos de género y modelos de periodistas que han caracterizado a este tipo de personajes a lo largo de décadas.
Era uma vez...uma história real: jornalismo e ficção na narrativa de 12 Seconds of Gunfire
Authors: Dantas Milena , M. Loureiro Luís
Published: July 2024

A utilização de recursos tecnológicos imersivos como a Realidade Virtual (RV) e vídeos em 360º, com a proposta de aproximar o usuário da história e tornar os conteúdos mais atrativos, tem provocado uma reconfiguração da narrativa jornalística e gerado questionamentos éticos que confrontam paradigmas da profissão. A partir da análise do vídeo 12 Seconds of Gunfire (2019), animação em 360º publicada pelo jornal The Washington Post, buscou-se perceber como o real e o ficcional, que se cruzam de forma mais evidente no jornalismo narrativo, se fazem presentes nestes relatos. Espera-se contribuir para as pertinentes discussões sobre o jornalismo digital e as inovações nos formatos narrativos em um cenário de transformações tecnológicas que desafiam a prática jornalística e que tornam mais complexa a distinção entre informação e ficção.
Acoustical Properties of multicomponent Solutions (Sucrose-Citric Acid-Water)
Authors: Upadhyay1 Ghanshyam , Kumar2 Bablu , Kumar3 Ajendra , Ranjan P Rajesh
Published: July 2024

This paper studies the acoustical properties of multicomponent solutions (sucrose-citric acid-water). The ultrasonic velocities of the ternary solution have been measured at different concentrations at 40 ºC. The experimental values of ultrasonic velocity have been utilized to calculate other acoustical parameters such as the adiabatic compressibility, acoustic impedance, molar sound velocity, intermolecular free length, apparent molar and molar sound compressibilities. The ultrasonic velocities of the multicomponent solutions increase with the increase in the concentration of its any individual component. The value of acoustical parameters also increases with the increase in total molarity of the ternary solutions.
Microwave-Induced Catalytic Transfer Hydrogenation in Different Solvents Toward Optically Active Hydroxy β-Lactams: Effects of Penetration Depth
Authors: Das Aparna , Yadav Ram Naresh , Banik Bimal Krishna
Published: July 2024

In present work, the stereospecific synthesis of optically active cis hydroxy β-lactams by catalytic transfer hydrogenation under diversemicrowave-induced conditions is invstigated. The effects of the penetration depth of the solvents are found to be more crucial than solvents with high dipole moments and dielectric constants. Despite significant progress of microwave-induced reactions, no reports have examined the penetration depth of the solvents used in these processes
Familial Mediterranean Fever Mimicking Metastatic Crohn's Disease
Authors: Patel Hiral S. , Srivastav Jigisha , Thapa Rupak
Published: July 2024

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is a hereditary disorder that presents with recurrent fever, rash, and polyserosal inflammation. The nonspecific symptoms of FMF allow it to mimic a large variety of diseases including metastatic Crohn's disease (MCD). MCD is a rare extraintestinal manifestation of Crohn's disease characterized by the presence of cutaneous noncaseating granulomas that are noncontiguous within the gastrointestinal tract. We describe a patient who had a delay in diagnosis of FMF as her clinical presentation mimicked MCD.
CORSET PRESSURE PADS EVALUATION USING A CAD/CAM METHOD
Authors: Štefanovič Branko , Ferenčík Norbert , Huňady Róbert , Živčák Jozef
Published: July 2024

Pressure pads are small hand-made corset components used for scoliotic curve correction by applying pressure to the body segment. The design and accuracy of these pads can be increased by using modern approaches like CAD modeling and additive manufacturing. The aim of this research was to apply these methods in the pressure pad development process and evaluate the suitability of the designed prototypes. A CAD software SOLIDWORKS was used for the pad design and 2 manufacturing technologies have been selected, specifically FDM and MJF, for the pad production. As for the material of which the pads could be manufactured, PLA, PETG and PA12 have been selected. Abaqus software, using the finite element method, has been chose for the 9 pad prototypes strength calculation, from which 6 have passed the test. It would be appropriate to expand the given research with CAD pressure pads of various optimized designs with different types and densities of infills.
Adaptive coarse spaces in FETI-DP method for highly heterogeneous problems
Authors:   , Medřický Tomáš
Published: July 2024

This thesis investigates approaches to improve performance of the Finite Element Tearing and Interconnecting Dual Primal (FETI-DP) method in problems with heterogeneously distributed high-contrast coefficients, in which the classical domain decomposition methods struggle. In particular, we focus on adaptive and heuristic approaches for coarse-space enhancement, and we investigate the robustness and stability of the standard strategies based on projections and transformation of basis for incorporating these enhancements. We propose two modifications of existing coarse-space enrichment techniques within FETI-DP, which result in better convergence and improved robustness while maintaining the complexity of the orignal techniques. As the main outcome of the thesis, we introduce two novel techniques: (i) a reduced-basis strategy for the generalized eigenvalue problems appearing in the adaptive approaches and (ii) a heuristic for selecting degrees of freedom to be added to the coarse space. Both techniques allow to identify the ill-posed solution modes while significantly reducing computation cost otherwise pertinent to eigenproblem-based adaptive approaches. The effectiveness of these modifications is illustrated on numerical test problems designed to expose limitations of traditional coarse-space constructions and further tested on systems of equations arising in modular-topology optimization tasks.
Comic Life: An Effective Intervention to Reduce Aggressive Behavior in Early Childhood
Authors: Nasution Mawaddah , Masitah Widya , Naimi Nadlrah , Sitepu Juli Maini
Published: July 2024

This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Comic Life intervention in reducing aggressive behavior among early childhood students. Utilizing an experimental design with pre-test and post-test control groups, the research was conducted over four weeks at RA As-Syafiiyah. Initial assessments identified potential issues through observations and interviews. Comic Life, an educational medium, was then developed and validated by experts. During the intervention phase, 21 children from class B engaged with Comic Life media through interactive storytelling sessions. Pre- and post-intervention data on aggressive behavior were collected using a validated questionnaire tailored to early childhood social-emotional development. The data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Mann-Whitney U test. Results indicate a significant reduction in aggressive behaviors post-intervention, with a large effect size (p = 0.003) and a rank-biserial correlation of -0.76. The findings underscore the potential of comic-based educational media in promoting positive behavioral outcomes among young children. This study highlights the importance of innovative and engaging methods in behavioral interventions, offering valuable insights for educators and policymakers. Future research should explore long-term effects and broader applications of similar interventions in different cultural and educational contexts to further validate these findings. Expanding the scope to include a range of behavioral issues and exploring the role of various types of educational media could provide a more comprehensive understanding of effective strategies for early childhood education.
Scholars and Literati at the University of Bourges (1464–1793)
Authors: De la Croix David
Published: July 2024

This note is a summary description of the set of scholars and literati who taught at the University of Bourges from its inception in 1464 to its abolishment during the French Revolution in 1793. For more detailed information about these individuals, please visit the comprehensive database available at https://shiny-lidam.sipr.ucl.ac.be/scholars/.
Association of Gln223Arg Polymorphism of the Leptin Receptor with Hypertensive Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
Authors: Zheng H. , Xie N. , Xu H. , Huang J. , Xie X. , Luo Ming
Published: July 2024

This study was aimed to determine whether the leptin receptor Gln223Arg polymorphism has an effect on plasma leptin levels and left ventricular hypertrophy in hypertension. The genotypes and allelic frequencies of the leptin receptor Gln223Arg were examined using the polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism in 190 hypertensive patients and 88 healthy controls. Logarithmic (log) transformation of the plasma leptin level was carried out before performing comparison and regression analysis. The values of log(plasma leptin levels) in the hypertensive patients were higher than those of controls and they were higher in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy than those without it (P < 0.05). The genotype (AA, AG, and GG) distribution of Gln223Arg polymorphism was 6.8, 33.8, and 59.4% in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy, 4.3, 27.6, and 68.1% in patients without left ventricular hypertrophy, and 2.3, 26.1, and 71.6% in the controls, respectively. A significant difference was found among these three groups (P < 0.05). The frequency of allele A was higher in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy than in patients without it (23.6 vs. 18.1%; P < 0.05). Log(plasma leptin levels) and left ventricular mass index were higher in patients with the AA genotype than those with the AG or GG genotype in hypertensive patients (P < 0.05). In multivariate regression analysis, the AA genotype as an independent predictor had statistically significant effects on the left ventricular mass index. Our results suggest that the Gln223Arg polymorphism of the leptin receptor is significantly associated with plasma leptin levels and left ventricular hypertrophy in hypertension.
Crossing the divide
Authors: Palmer Stuart , Holt Dale
Published: July 2024

Learning management systems (LMSs) are a ubiquitous feature of the higher education landscape. As with any other technological system, change in LMSs is inevitable as advances in computer and communication technologies render older systems obsolete. In this paper we respond to the call for more research on the impacts of LMS change by documenting a relatively large scale and fined grained quantitative investigation of the changes in user perceptions (both students and academic staff) of the functions of an institutional LMS across the period of transition to a new system between 2011 and 2012. We address the question, “Did the new LMS dramatically change the student and staff experience of using the system?” To a large extent, the answer is, “No”. The median absolute difference between all 2011 and 2012 mean ratings (as a percentage of the 2011 rating) was only 0.21 % for students and 0.26 % for staff.
Changing the face of learning @ UWS
Authors: Rankine-Venaruzzo Lynnae , Macnamara Dennis , Griffin Tim
Published: July 2024

This paper describes and analyses a whole of institutional transformation to blended learning at the University of Western Sydney (UWS) using the Moskal, Dziuban and Hartman (2013) model. An institution wide and a school (or faculty) lens has been applied to each of the components of the model. UWS previously operated as a largely on-campus institution with small pockets of innovation. While the transformation was a top down direction, it was based on analysis of students’ needs and desires and has been characterised by flexibility in its implementation. The change has also been supported through funding and recruitment of learning design expertise. While it is still too early to be definitive about learning and graduate outcomes, indicative data such as student satisfaction and unit results is trending positive. Moreover, the transformation has largely been well received by the faculty and university staff as a whole.
A time for everything
Authors: Cook Roger , Obexer Regina
Published: July 2024

This paper outlines a review carried out at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in 2013 to identify the extent to which the centrally supported virtual learning environment met current and future learning and teaching needs. A range of consultation and investigation activities occurred from May to November to encourage open stakeholder feedback as well as to allow for reflection on alternative digital technologies, systems and strategies. This resulted in the development of nine recommendations, which, following a planning phase, will commence being implemented from mid-2014.
Coming of the third wave
Authors: McDonald Marcus , Gregory Sue , Farley Helen , Harlim Jennifer , Sim Jenny , Newman Christine
Published: July 2024

The Gartner Hype Cycle has placed virtual worlds on the climb up the Slope of Enlightenment. While some authors in the past have made much of the educational use of virtual worlds languishing in the Trough of Disillusionment, there has been a community of authors, designers and educators working to further understanding of the limitations and affordances of such technologies. It is time to pool this knowledge, experience, tools and practice to solidify best practice, focus research on development of specific elements and forge ahead to shape the third wave of educational virtual worlds. This paper attempts to outline this information and practice while offering solutions for further development.
Efficient learning design
Authors: Godsk Mikkel
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the current approach to implementing educational technology with learning design at the Faculty of Science and Technology, Aarhus University, by introducing the concept of ‘efficient learning design’. The underlying hypothesis is that implementing learning design is more than engaging educators in the design process and developing teaching and learning, it is a shift in educational practice that potentially requires a stakeholder analysis and ultimately a business model for the deployment. What is most important is to balance the institutional, educator, and student perspectives and to consider all these in conjunction in order to obtain a sustainable, efficient learning design. The approach to deploying learning design in terms of the concept of efficient learning design, the catalyst for educational development, i.e. the learning design model and how it is being used, and two cases of efficient learning design interventions are being presented.
Seeing between the lines
Authors: Sim Kwong Nui , Butson Russell , Stein Sarah , Van der Meer Jacques
Published: July 2024

The use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has grown enormously in the last decade with computers and smart devices becoming indispensable in tertiary students’ study practices. There is, however, limited documented research about the ways PhD students use ICT in their research practice. Nevertheless, it is expected that PhD students will make use of various computer technologies throughout their research process (e.g., preparation phase, fieldwork phase, analysis phase, and write-up phase). This paper reports on the analysis of one of the datasets in a study that examined how PhD students use ICT to support their research practice. The analysis takes into account the relationship and/or the tensions that exist between the PhD student participants and ICT. Two discussion sessions, which included photo capture, were conducted with nine doctoral students, who self-reported as being skilled computer users in a short questionnaire. The sessions aimed to review the ways the PhD students engage with and integrate computer technologies in light of the four phases in their research process. The preliminary analysis indicates some interesting hybrid relationships between papers and computer technologies (i.e., computer devices, tools and networks) in this cohort of PhD students’ daily research practices. These findings will form the basis of the other parts of analysis in the mentioned larger study to investigate relationships between the PhD students and ICT in their process of doing doctoral research.
Three paths for learning analytics and beyond
Authors: Beer Colin , Tickner Rolley , Jones David
Published: July 2024

There is growing rhetoric about the potential of learning analytics in higher education. There is concern about what the growing hype around learning analytics will mean for the reality. Will learning analytics be a repeat of past mistakes where technology implementations fail to move beyond a transitory fad and provide meaningful and sustained contributions to learning and teaching? How can such a fate be avoided? This paper identifies three paths that learning analytics implementations might take, with particular consideration to their likely impact on learning and teaching. An ongoing learning analytics project – currently used by hundreds of teaching staff to support early interventions to improve student retention - at a regional Australian university is examined in relation to the three paths, and some implications, challenges and future directions are discussed.
Design principles for Massive Online Courses
Authors: Phillips Rob
Published: July 2024

A new set of ‘common first year’ teacher education units has been developed at an Australian university. This paper discusses the further development of these units for large enrolment online degree programs. A needs analysis was performed and contemporary best practice consulted to develop a set of design principles that guided the redevelopment. The implementation of the design principles is discussed, and a formative evaluation of the conduct of the revised units is reported. Student and tutor feedback supported the new unit designs, but also identified some areas for improvement.
“We will fix the deficit”
Authors: Thornton Julia
Published: July 2024

Literature that hopes to explain or instruct in the use of educational technologies in universities tends to occur as deficit theories of technology use, implicit in several bodies of literature. This paper addresses the hidden and not so hidden discourses about how to improve use of educational technologies. Five ‘instrumental’ bodies of work are analysed; the lists and instructions that make up ‘cookbooks’ of information on how to use educational technology, information literacy literature that stems from librarianship, the novice/ expert theories which underpin some forms of classroom instruction, Prensky’s ‘digital natives/immigrants’ theory, and that group of theories arising from Roger’s ‘diffusion of innovations model’, including the ‘technological adoption model’ (TAM). I argue that each of them differs in conceptualising user agency, the form that knowledge takes, the nature of social change and the culpability of the user while maintaining an instrumental approach that is ultimately based on techno-utopianism.
Towards a global educational technology environment
Authors: Allan Garry
Published: July 2024

RMIT is at the point of commencement of integrating its core Learning Management System (Blackboard) to a singular global presence. This step will transition the University from its historical base of operating two independent LMS systems, to a unified global systems presence. Additional to this, the university has integrated a suite of technologies for global deployment that enrich and personalise the online learning environment for local delivery, but within a global framework. In parallel, emphasis has been placed on transitioning assessment practice to fully online grading and the availability of professional development delivered in a fully online format. Presented here are the core aspects of the design and implementation of the integrated RMIT educational technology suite and its immediate future directions.
Mid-semester student satisfaction feedback
Authors: Parkin Lorraine , Henderson Michael
Published: July 2024

This small-scale pilot research sought to examine how gathering mid-semester student satisfaction feedback could impact (a) student and lecturer satisfaction with using online learning and (b) lecturer approaches to teaching in online environments. Much of the literature on collecting student feedback focuses on end of semester feedback and its benefit for improving future iterations of the course. In contrast, this case study of four units (subjects) in an Australian university investigated the potential of gathering mid-semester feedback to inform lecturers of student satisfaction and thereby open up opportunities for ongoing changes to the unit. The findings revealed that lecturers can use the collection of feedback early in the semester to allay confusion felt by students at the beginning of units. Mid-semester feedback was also found to be valued by lecturers for providing insights into students' perception of a unit's progress, allowing them to modify instructions when needed.