bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Ho3+, Er3+, and Tm3+ on laser cooling of Yb:YLF
Authors: Püschel Stefan , Liestmann Zoe , Kalusniak Sascha , Kränkel Christian , Schulz Andreas , Traub Heike , Tanaka Hiroki
Published: September 2024

Ytterbium-doped LiYF4 (Yb:YLF) is a promising material for all-solid-state optical cryocoolers, but the impact of foreign rare-earth impurities on the laser-cooling performance is not completely understood. In particular, Tm3+ has been reported to reduce the background absorption. This study quantitatively assesses the impact of Ho3+, Tm3+, and Er3+ impurities on laser-cooling of Yb:YLF by anti-Stokes fluorescence. We grew five Yb(5%):YLF crystals intentionally doped with tens of ppm levels of these impurities. Laser-induced thermal modulation spectroscopy tests confirmed that these rare-earth impurities reduce the external quantum efficiency of Yb:YLF without affecting the background absorption coefficient. Although Er3+ is a well-known quencher for Yb3+, Er3+ co-doping only slightly decreases the laser-cooling efficiency at low pump intensities but becomes detrimental at high pump intensities (>5 kW cm-2). However, this detrimental effect diminishes at lower temperatures, as evidenced by cooling an Er3+ co-doped crystal to the same minimum temperature of 144 K as a solely Yb3+-doped crystal. Contrary to previous reports, Tm3+ proved to be the most detrimental among the three impurities.
Twin-field quantum key distribution with optical injection locking and phase encoding on-chip
Authors: Du Han , Paraiso Taofiq K. , Pittaluga Mirko , Lo Yuen San , Dolphin Joseph A. , Shields Andrew J.
Published: September 2024

Twin-field (TF) quantum key distribution (QKD) has been proved to overcome the linear rate-distance limit of repeaterless quantum communications and has the capability to generate high key rates over long distances compared with other QKD protocols. Photonic integration has proven a promising technique for the large-scale deployment of QKD. While it has been adopted to implement a range of linearly scaling QKD protocols, there is to date no demonstration of TF QKD using photonic integrated chips. One important challenge resides in establishing high coherence between remote laser chips. In this study, we exploit optical injection locking to implement phase dissemination to independent lasers integrated onto photonic circuits and further demonstrate complete phase control on the same chip using electro-optic phase modulators. We achieve high laser coherence between remote transmitter nodes, which lets us demonstrate a quadratic key-rate improvement of the secure key rate beyond 80 dB of channel attenuation. The experimental results are in excellent agreement with the theory in both finite size and asymptotic regimes, in which the fundamental rate-distance limit is overcome. Our work paves the way for the deployment of large-scale TF QKD networks enabled by compact, low-cost, and high-yield chip-based devices.
Single-shot common old ordinary Raman scattering for time-resolved one-dimensional hypersonic flow diagnostics
Authors: Bak Junhwi , Leonov Boris , Miles Richard
Published: September 2024

Common old ordinary Raman scattering (COORS) is revisited to evaluate its applicability for hypersonic flow characterization. Due to its very low cross-section, Raman scattering is often considered unsuitable for measuring low-pressure gas properties that are found in ground test simulations of high-altitude hypersonic flights. Utilizing a recently developed one-dimensional (1D) light scattering technique with a volume Bragg grating filter and Stokes side band windowing, we demonstrate 1D rotational Raman measurements of temperature and neutral gas density across a bow shock in front of a blunt wedge model under Mach 6 hypersonic flow. The experiment was conducted in the Hypervelocity eXpansion Tunnel (HXT) at Texas A&M University. The measurements were successfully obtained during a single run of the tunnel operation, capturing the temperature and density distributions with dynamic ranges of 200 - 2000 K and 5x10²³ - 4x10²⁴ /m³ respectively, over both the freestream and post-shock regions, covering approximately 10 mm in length with a spatial resolution of < 0.5 mm. Time-resolved high-speed measurement capability at 100 kHz was also demonstrated, showcasing the robustness of 1D COORS for gas diagnostics.
Proposing an ultra-low loss Sodium-Based Triangular Hybrid Plasmonic Waveguide
Authors: Firouzbakht Hamed , Nooramin Amir
Published: September 2024

Highly confined and long-range deep subwavelength optical propagation is crucial for photonic integration. Surface plasmon polaritons provide a scientific method for high-density photonic integration and low-loss optical field transmission. In this research, we introduce a triangular hybrid plasmonic waveguide in which a triangular nanowire is separated by a layer of SiO₂ from a Na substrate and fixed with columns of SiO₂. The properties of the propagation modes have been analyzed using the finite element method at the 1550nm wavelength. The results show that we have normalized mode area = 1.6×10¯³, effective index = 1.0124, propagation length = 660 µm, and figure of merit = 5410 simultaneously. Because of the field concentration at the tip of the triangle, a lower loss, higher confinement, and longer propagation length have been attained. In addition, the fabricating method of the proposed waveguide has been proposed and discussed. These findings of the triangular hybrid plasmonic waveguides make them widely used in many fields, including telecommunications, sensors, lasers, and optical technologies.
Optimizing COVID-19 testing resources use with wearable sensors
Authors: Quer Giorgio , Kolbeinsson Arinbjörn , Radin Jennifer M. , Foschini Luca , Pandit Jay
Published: September 2024

The timely identification of infectious pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic cases is key towards preventing the spread of a viral illness like COVID-19. Early identification has been done through routine testing programs, which are indeed costly and potentially burdensome for individuals who should be tested with high frequency. A supplemental tool is represented by wearable technology, that can passively monitor and identify individuals at high risk, alerting them to take a test. We designed a Markov chain model and simulated a routine testing and a wearable testing strategy to estimate the number of tests required and the average number of days in which an individual is infectious and undetected. According to our model, with 2 test per month available, we have that the number of infectious and undetected days is 4.1 in the case of routine testing, while it decreases by 46% and 27% with a wearable testing strategy in the presence or absence of self-reported symptoms. The proposed parametric model can be used for different viral illnesses by tuning its parameters. It shows that wearable technology informing a testing strategy can significantly reduce the number of infectious days in which an individuals can spread the virus. With the same number of infectious days, by using wearables we can potentially reduce the number of required tests and the cost of the testing strategy.
Barriers and facilitators for implementing the WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist (SCC) in Mozambique: A qualitative study using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR)
Authors: He Anqi , Kanduma Elsa Luís , Pérez-Escamilla Rafael , Buckshee Devina , Chaquisse Eusébio , Cuco Rosa Marlene , Desai Mayur Mahesh , Munguambe Danícia , Reames Sakina Erika , Manuel Isaías Ramiro , Spiegelman Donna , Xu Dong
Published: September 2024

High maternal and neonatal mortality rates persist in Mozambique, with stillbirths remaining understudied. Most maternal and neonatal deaths in the country are due to preventable and treatable childbirth-related complications that often occur in low-resource settings. The World Health Organization introduced the Safe Childbirth Checklist (SCC) in 2015 to reduce adverse birth outcomes. The SCC, a structured list of evidence-based practices, targets the main causes of maternal and neonatal deaths and stillbirths in healthcare facilities. The SCC has been tested in over 35 countries, demonstrating its ability to improve the quality of care. However, it has not been adopted in Mozambique. This study aimed to identify potential facilitators and barriers to SCC implementation from the perspective of birth attendants, clinical administrators, and decision-makers to inform future SCC implementation in Mozambique. We conducted a qualitative study involving focus group discussions with birth attendants (n = 24) and individual interviews with clinical administrators (n = 6) and decision-makers (n = 8). The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research guided the questions used in the interviews and focus group discussions, as well as the subsequent data analysis. A deductive thematic analysis of Portuguese-to-English translated transcripts was performed. In Mozambique, most barriers to potential SCC implementation stem from the challenges within a weak health system, including underfunded maternal care, lack of infrastructure and human resources, and low provider motivation. The simplicity of the SCC and the commitment of healthcare providers to better childbirth practices, combined with their willingness to adopt the SCC, were identified as major facilitators. To improve the feasibility of SCC implementation and increase compatibility with current childbirth routines for birth attendants, the SCC should be tailored to context-specific needs. Future research should prioritize conducting pre-implementation assessments to align the SCC more effectively with local contexts and facilitate sustainable enhancements in childbirth practices.
Influence of the SARS-COV2 pandemic on access to healthcare services among people living with HIV and its subsequent effects on antiretroviral therapy uptake in Malawi
Authors: Maphosa Thulani , Phoso Malocho , Makonokaya Lucky , Kalitera Louiser , Machekano Rhoderick , Maida Alice , Chamanga Rachel Kanyenda , Woelk Godfrey
Published: September 2024

The global disruption caused by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic profoundly affected healthcare systems, particularly impacting People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (PLHIV). This study investigated the repercussions of SARS-CoV-2 infection on access to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care and antiretroviral therapy (ARV) in Malawi, emphasizing the critical need to sustain uninterrupted HIV services during health crises. Employing mobile phone-based syndromic surveillance, this study assessed the influence of SARS-CoV-2 on healthcare access for PLHIV across nine districts supported by the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF). Telephone-based interviews were conducted to analyze demographic factors, challenges encountered in accessing HIV services, and adherence to ARV medication, illuminating the pandemic’s effects on ARV uptake. The findings revealed that approximately 3.9% (n = 852) of 21981 participants faced obstacles in accessing crucial HIV services during the pandemic, resulting in approximately 1.2% (n = 270) reporting multiple missed doses of ARV medication in a particular month. After adjusting for various variables, males exhibited a higher likelihood of service inaccessibility than females (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.20–1.60, p < 0.001). Age also played a significant role, with individuals aged 35–49 years and those aged 50 years or older demonstrating reduced odds of service failure compared with the reference group aged 18–34 years. Only a small proportion of PLHIV reported disruption in HIV care access, which may be because Malawi did not initiate stringent travel restrictions during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Nonetheless, enduring challenges have been observed in retaining younger PLHIV and men in HIV-care settings. Thus, targeted strategies are imperative for effectively engaging and sustaining these populations in HIV care during and after health crises.
Linked-evidence modelling of qualitative G6PD testing to inform low- and intermediate-dose primaquine treatment for radical cure of Plasmodium vivax
Authors: Gatton Michelle L.
Published: September 2024

Background

Radical cure of Plasmodium vivax infections is key to the control of vivax malaria. However, the standard doses of 8-aminoquinoline drugs used for radical cure can cause severe haemolysis in G6PD-deficient patients. The availability of near-patient G6PD tests could increase use of primaquine (PQ), however direct evidence of the impacts that G6PD testing has on downstream patient outcomes, such as haemolysis and recurrence is lacking.

Methodology/Principle findings

A linked-evidence model was created to investigate changes in the number of severe haemolysis events and P. vivax recurrences within 6 months of treatment when qualitative G6PD testing was used to guide PQ treatment (0.25mg/kg/day for 14 days and 0.5mg/kg/day for 7 days), compared to prescribing 14-day PQ with no G6PD testing. In the model patients identified as G6PD-deficient received 8-week PQ (0.75mg/kg/week). The model was used to simulate scenarios with 1%, 5% and 10% prevalence of G6PD-deficiency (G6PDd) in theoretical populations of 10,000 male and female P. vivax patients and initially assumed 100% adherence to the prescribed PQ regiment. Results illustrate that G6PD testing to guide the 14-day PQ regiment reduced severe haemolysis by 21–80% and increased recurrences by 3–6%, compared to applying the 14-day PQ regiment without G6PD testing. Results for the 7-day PQ regiment informed by G6PD testing were mixed, dependent on G6PDd prevalence and sex. When adherence to the PQ regiments was less than perfect the model predicted reductions in the number of recurrences at all prevalence levels, provided adherence to 7-day PQ was 5–10% higher than adherence to the 14-day regiment.

Conclusions/Significance

Introduction of G6PD testing to guide PQ treatment reduces severe haemolysis events for the 14-day regiment, and the 7-day regiment in higher G6PDd prevalence settings, compared to use of 14-day PQ without G6PD testing when all patients adhere to the prescribed PQ treatment. At a population level, there were increases in recurrences, but this could be resolved when the 7-day regiment was used and had superior adherence compared to the 14-day regiment.
Identifying crucial lncRNAs and mRNAs in hypoxia-induced A549 lung cancer cells and investigating their underlying mechanisms via high-throughput sequencing
Authors: Lin Lin , Deng Lili , Bao Yongxia
Published: September 2024

Background

Rapid proliferation and outgrowth of tumor cells frequently result in localized hypoxia, which has been implicated in the progression of lung cancer. The present study aimed to identify key long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) involved in hypoxia-induced A549 lung cancer cells, and to investigate their potential underlying mechanisms of action.

Methods

High-throughput sequencing was utilized to obtain the expression profiles of lncRNA and mRNA in both hypoxia-induced and normoxia A549 lung cancer cells. Subsequently, a bioinformatics analysis was conducted on the differentially expressed molecules, encompassing functional enrichment analysis, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, and competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) analysis. Finally, the alterations in the expression of key lncRNAs and mRNAs were validated using real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR).

Results

In the study, 1155 mRNAs and 215 lncRNAs were identified as differentially expressed between the hypoxia group and the normoxia group. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that the differentially expressed mRNAs were significantly enriched in various pathways, including the p53 signaling pathway, DNA replication, and the cell cycle. Additionally, key lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA relationships, such as RP11-58O9.2-hsa-miR-6749-3p-XRCC2 and SNAP25-AS1-hsa-miR-6749-3p-TENM4, were identified. Notably, the qPCR assay demonstrated that the expression of SNAP25-AS1, RP11-58O9.2, TENM4, and XRCC2 was downregulated in the hypoxia group compared to the normoxia group. Conversely, the expression of LINC01164, VLDLR-AS1, RP11-14I17.2, and CDKN1A was upregulated.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest a potential involvement of SNAP25-AS1, RP11-58O9.2, TENM4, XRCC2, LINC01164, VLDLR-AS1, RP11-14I17.2, and CDKN1A in the development of hypoxia-induced lung cancer. These key lncRNAs and mRNAs exert their functions through diverse mechanisms, including the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) pathway.
Public welfare donation, rent sharing, and income gap within enterprises
Authors: Chen Jiantao , Luo Xiang , Wang Xiao
Published: September 2024

This study utilizes data from A-share listed companies between 2011 and 2020 to empirically investigate the impact and mechanism of public welfare donations on the internal income gap of enterprises. The research findings indicate that public welfare donations significantly increase the per capita salary of management, while their impact on the per capita salary of ordinary employees is not significant, thus leading to an expansion of the internal income gap within enterprises. The results from mechanism testing reveal that the income tax benefits resulting from charitable donations and the rise in corporate operating income have contributed to an increase in excess rent shared by enterprises and employees. Due to a stronger bargaining power, management shares more excess rents, thereby widening the income gap within the enterprise. Heterogeneity analysis demonstrates that public welfare donations have a greater impact on the internal income gap of non-state-owned enterprises; however, limiting executive compensation and enhancing employees’ bargaining power can mitigate this widening effect caused by public welfare donations on enterprise’s internal income gap. The research value of this study is threefold. Firstly, there is a scarcity of studies on the impact of public welfare donations on the income gap within enterprises, and this study contributes to enriching the research in this area. Secondly, this paper examines the effect of tax incentives for public welfare donations on the internal income gap of enterprises, thereby deepening the research on the impact of tax reduction and fee reduction, as well as expanding our understanding of corporate income tax preferential policies. Thirdly, it offers insights into improving enterprise compensation systems and enhancing corporate governance. Senior executives can potentially allocate more excess rent through their strong bargaining power. If their compensation remains unrestricted, it may lead to a widening internal income gap and negatively affect company operational efficiency.
Characteristics of patients with diagnosis of maturity-onset diabetes of the young, according to the Russian diabetes registry
Authors: Rusyaeva N. V. , Kononenko I. V. , Vikulova O. K. , Isakov M. A. , Shestakova M. V. , Mokrysheva N. G.
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND: Molecular genetic testing (MGT) is increasingly accessible, improving diagnosis of monogenic diabetes (DM), particularly maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY). While most MODY research focuses on pediatric populations, diagnosis is possible after age 18. The Federal Diabetes Registry (FDR) offers unique insights into real-world management of MODY patients.

AIM: To analyze the clinical features of DM onset, carbohydrate metabolism, complications, and hypoglycemic therapy (HT) in patients with the main types of MODY based on the FDR data.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional analysis of the FDR was conducted. All patients with registered MODY diagnoses (MODY-1, MODY-2, MODY-3, or other) as of June 1, 2023, were included. The specified MODY type was considered indicative of prior MGT. Direct MGT results are not recorded in the FDR.

RESULTS: The study included 640 patients. MODY2 was the most prevalent type (69.4%), followed by MODY1 (18.2%) and MODY3 (12.4%). The median age of DM diagnosis was 19 years for MODY1, 10 years for MODY2, and 14 years for MODY3. The majority of patients (71.4%) were diagnosed with MODY before the age of 18 years.

While 61% of MODY2 patients received monotherapy with diet, others received various ADT. Sulfonylureas were commonly prescribed for MODY3 patients (45.8%), and for a smaller portion of MODY1 patients (14.1%). Insulin therapy was more frequent in MODY1 and 3 (35.9% and 31.2%, respectively). The target glycated hemoglobin level was achieved in 82% of MODY2 patients and in 50.7% and 52.9% of MODY1 and 3 patients, respectively.

Diabetic complications were observed in 6.04% of MODY2 patients, 23.0% of MODY1 patients, and 22.0% of MODY3 patients. Specific complications included diabetic retinopathy (5.75%, 1.21%, and 3.39% in MODY1, MODY2, and MODY3, respectively), diabetic nephropathy (10.3%, 2.11%, and 11.9%), and diabetic polyneuropathy (14.9%, 4.53%, and 15.3%).

CONCLUSION: The FDR analysis revealed real-world practice patterns in MODY management, highlighting a lack of standardized treatment approaches and potentially unnecessary insulin use. These findings, coupled with an expected rise in MODY diagnoses, underscore the need for clinical guidelines for this population.
Successful pregnancy in a woman of late reproductive age with type 1 diabetes mellitus after combined pancreas — kidney transplantation
Authors: Prokopenko E. I. , Burumkulova F. F. , Nikolskaya I. G. , Kovalenko T. S. , Petrukhin V. A.
Published: September 2024

Women of reproductive age with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) and chronic kidney disease stage 5 after successful combined pancreas-kidney transplantation (CPKT) can experience spontaneous pregnancies with a favorable outcome. However, those pregnancies are associated with a high risk of complications: arterial hypertension, preeclampsia, premature birth, progression of diabetic retinopathy. During pregnancy, both gestational diabetes and spontaneous hypoglycemia can develop. This article presents a description of the clinical case of a 42-year-old patient with DM type 1, in whom pregnancy occurred 2 years after successful CPKT. Blood pressure was normal, the fundus condition was stable after previous treatment. The patient received tacrolimus and minimal dose of corticosteroids, at 13 weeks acetylsalicylic acid was prescribed to prevent preeclampsia. At 30 weeks nocturnal episodes of hypoglycemia appeared that were treated by additional intake of carbohydrates with an average glycemic index in combination with animal fats and proteins. At 36 gestational weeks caesarean section was performed due to premature rupture of membranes. A healthy girl was born with weight of 2140 g, height of 48 cm, Apgar score 7/8 points. The mother’s function of the kidney and pancreas grafts remained normal. Preconceptional counseling and multidisciplinary pregnancy management are important for patients after CPKT.
The place of gliclazide MB in modern treatment strategies for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Petunina N. A. , Martirosian N. S. , Goncharova E. V. , Telnova M. E. , Kuzina I. A. , Shchetinina A. O. , Elmurzaeva E. A.
Published: September 2024

Sulfonylurea (SU) are an effective class of oral hypoglycemic drugs that have been used in clinical practice for more than 70 years. Despite the common mechanism of action, members of the class have significant intraclass differences in hypoglycemic activity, safety, and the presence of extrapancreatic effects. This review examines the features of gliclazide modified release (MR), its differences from other representatives of the SU and its place in modern recommendations for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Gliclazide MR belongs to the modern 2nd generation SU with high hypoglycemic activity, low risk of hypoglycemia due to reversible binding to the SUR1 receptor and no effect on the Epac2 pathway, generally neutral effect on weight, proven nephroprotective properties and cardiovascular safety, which makes it possible to highlight it among representatives of the SU class. International and national clinical guidelines indicate the place of SU when it is necessary to intensify glucose-lowering therapy and glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Data mining interactions in a 3D immersive environment for real-time feedback during simulated surgery
Authors: Kennedy Gregor , Ioannou Ioanna , Zhou Yun , Bailey James , O’Leary Stephen
Published: September 2024

The analysis and use of data generated by students‘ interactions with learning systems or programs – learning analytics – has recently gained widespread attention in the educational technology community. Part of the reason for this interest is based on the potential of learning analytic techniques such as data mining to find hidden patterns in students‘ online interactions that can be meaningfully interpreted and then fed back to students in a way that supports their learning. In this paper we present an investigation of how the digital data records of students‘ interactions within an immersive 3D environment can be mined, modeled and analysed in real-time, to provide formative feedback to students as they complete simulated surgical tasks. The issues that emerged in this investigation as well as areas for further research and development are discussed.
Treading carefully in Stalk Space
Authors: Woodley Carolyn , Beattie Scott
Published: September 2024

Universities are enthused by the capacity of social media to engage students, encourage creativity, support collaboration and connect students, teaching staff and industry globally. Without dismissing the very real capacity for social media to contribute to a connected, informed, critical digital citizenry, it is timely to consider some of the risks that social media in a university setting brings. It is a commonplace assumption that, not only are all students 'on' Facebook, but that universities must also engage with students there. This paper does not consider whether to use social media or not for teaching; rather, this paper introduces some legal and ethical themes about the use of external social media for the formal teaching of enrolled students.
Online learning preferences
Authors: Tickner Sue , Hunt Tony
Published: September 2024

This paper describes a trial of an online survey that was intended to reveal the online learning preferences of students and staff at a Faculty of Education, and our conclusions to date about the usefulness of the tool and the results it revealed. As part of a wider work in progress, the trial arose from our desire to better understand the learning needs of students from diverse cultures and how best to support online and blended students and teachers in increasingly global communities of learning. Our conclusions to date do not enable us to validate the cultural dimensions of learning on which the survey was based, but they do lead us to believe there is value in using the instrument to reveal and explore difference in online learning preferences.
Reflections on staff development in eLearning via a community of practice model
Authors: Roder Tabitha , Rata-Skudder Nicoletta
Published: September 2024

This narrative seeks to identify practices which have enabled staff in eLearning roles to support their peers to increase the use of eLearning within a New Zealand tertiary education context. Specifically, it examines those factors which have contributed to the development of institutional capability in eLearning over a two-year funded period. Unitec New Zealand has recently implemented a transformative eLearning Development Strategy with the aim of developing the capability and capacity of Unitec academic staff in integrating learning technologies. The funding of a number of temporary roles aided development of staff capability and capacity in eLearning through a Community of Practice model. We consider factors that contribute to the development of a sustainable learning culture, and identify how a community approach has enabled this. We further explore and reflect upon the enablers and barriers experienced in the eLearning roles, and the implications of using this model and its efficacy in meeting institutional goals. An extended version of this paper was presented at the Moodle Research Conference held in Heraklion, Crete on 14-15 September 2012.
Using Online Environments to Provoke Student-Enquiry
Authors: Nicolson Fiona , Parsell Mitch
Published: September 2024

This paper is intended for researchers and practitioners interested in using online environments to provoke student enquiry in any discipline in higher education. Using a Community of Enquiry model that tackles the pedagogical weaknesses in constructivism, we explain why online environments are so effective in engaging students actively in a learning process that meets the requirements of an academic context. From this perspective, we are able to offer concrete advice on how to design an online environment that will provoke student-enquiry. We explain why a social presence is important in the establishment of a Community of Enquiry and we also align particular web technologies to the various stages in the enquiry process and the students’ achievement of a unit’s learning outcomes. The reader will develop a better understanding of community of enquiry in higher education, and how to use web technologies to provoke enquiry in an online environment.
The creation of a 3D immersive, interactive space for experiential learning
Authors: Knox Vicki , Gregory Sue
Published: September 2024

VirtualPREX, or, virtual professional experience, is the term used to describe a 3D virtual world classroom designed for pre-service teachers to practise their teaching skills and use the interactive resources to create immersive experiences to assist their learning. Outlined in this paper is how and why the space was created for the pre-service teachers. Also described and explained are the adjustments made to the space to enable a richer experience for pre-service teachers to role-play and practise their teaching prior to taking the skills to the real classroom.
Outside in
Authors: Billany Trevor
Published: September 2024

A review of the teaching spaces at Charles Darwin University merged top-down directives with bottom-up requirements from user groups (students, academics and support staff). The space of tension between the three top-down drivers from outside and within the walls of a regional Northern Australian university had to be managed and prioritised to ensure the needs of local stakeholders were met as far as economically and practicably possible. By going beyond blended learning the aim is to provide a deeper level of engagement and collaboration to create synergies designed to bring the distant external students into the classroom. This will be mediated by the use of web-conferencing within the teaching spaces. The change process is examined with respect to five issues identified as relevant for this teaching mode to improve the sustainability of our teaching practices.
Flex and inflexibility
Authors: Symonds Scott , Hartnett Maggie , Brown Mark
Published: September 2024

This paper introduces a major investment in 'state of the art' video-linked teaching (VLT) facilities aimed at supporting collaborative teaching and learning across and beyond the campuses of Massey University. It reports how the design and development of the VLT spaces have resulted in unexpected challenges that are occasionally counter to the flexible teaching philosophy that has informed the design of the rooms. Some initial feedback is shared from the early experiences of staff and students, indicating several lessons for other institutions wishing to exploit the potential of VLT and related new 'hybrid' learning spaces. Overall the poster offers a glimpse into an engaging, tactile learning environment which goes beyond traditional video conferencing and highlights some of the pedagogical implications that have arisen through the project pilot phase.
A model for the effects of online social networks on learning
Authors: Jonnavithula Lalitha , Tretiakov Alexei
Published: September 2024

Online social networks enabled by social networking software, such as Facebook or Google Plus, provide opportunities for e-learning and affect the behaviour of learners that participate in them. Based on social network theory, social learning theory, and theory of planned behaviour, we propose a model explaining the effects of online social networks on learning success.
Feeling the Feed
Authors: Fletcher K. Martin ‘Marty’ , Barker Michelle
Published: September 2024

This poster describes the ongoing challenges of using now 'traditional' threaded discussion boards, and details events leading to a simultaneous design experiment conducting an instructional activity in the traditional threaded discussion and a social media platform. It further describes a trial abandoning the legacy threaded discussion application completely in favor of the social media platform.
Eportfolios in the Sciences
Authors: Coleman Kathryn , Cox Julian , Das Mita , Flood Adele , Polly Patsie , Thai Thuan , Yang Jia Lin
Published: September 2024

This poster presents a series of UNSW LTU seed funding grants that explored a program-wide approach to using ePortfolios as a reflective learning process together with the need for life-long and life-wide learning alongside career goal setting. ePortfolios were selected as the learning technology for these studies as they provide a cohesive and reflective space to enable a student to reflect upon and understand different ways of operating and possible new directions for their learning. In higher education more recently, there has been a growing imperative to have a portable record of work undertaken across a number of areas of endeavor in a student?s academic life for assurance of learning. A Mahara ePortfolio serves several important functions with this in mind; it allows for integration of reflective elements, in the Journal, with career-oriented elements, including the articulation of academic and personal skills, plans and the Resume; it records past and current practice for reflecting upon practice to effect change, and acts as a change agent by enabling long-term on-going evaluation of student performance and associated learning outcomes.
Bibliografia prac profesora Jerzego Topolskiego za lata 1998-2001
Authors: Łabędzka-Topolska Maria
Published: September 2024

Kontynuacja bibliografii prac prof. J. Topolskiego zamieszczonych w tomie 23 SHO.
A Bibliography of publications in economic and social history printed in Poland in 1994-1995
Authors: Kowal Ewelina
Published: September 2024

With the supplements for the years 1992-93.
I. Bibliography 191II. Methodology, theory and history of economic thought 192 III. Sources and source studies 193 IV. General publications 196 V. Demography 198 VI. Social structure and mobility 200 VII. Labour, social movements and trade unions 204 VIII. Social and economic relations in rural communities 204 IX. Towns and urbanization processes 205 X. Industry, mining, handicraft and architecture 208 XI. Transport and communication 210 XII. Maritime economy, aquatic economy 210 XIII. Trade 211 XIV. Credit, finance, money and prices 212 XV. Insurance and social welfare 213 XVI. Consumption 214
Enhancing data security using Laplacian of Gaussian and Chacha20 encryption algorithm
Authors: Fadhil Fadhil Abbas , Hussien Alhilo Farah Tawfiq Abdul , Abdulhadi Mohammed T.
Published: September 2024

Concealing sensitive information inside multimedia is very interesting in secure communication due to its wide application. This study discusses the different difficulties involved in embedding the ciphertext inside video frame without affecting the imperceptibility and the strength resistance against different cyberattacks. The main goal of this study is to suggest a novel technique to conceal encrypted data inside video frames securely. This is done by combining the Laplacian of Gaussian (LoG) edge detection algorithm and Chacha20 encryption algorithm. LoG facilitates to detect the suitable location inside video frame for concealing data. While ChaCha20 is used to encrypt data before embedding them inside these locations, which augmenting data security. The proposed method involves sequence of steps involving detecting edges inside video frames, determining the suitable edges for concealing data, encrypting data by XORing it with the encryption key which is generated using ChaCha20 algorithm, embedding the encrypted data inside the determined edges, and then reconstruct the video frame to rebuild the video that involves the concealed encrypted data and keeping the lowest level of visual distortion. The experimental results showed that combining these two approaches provide fast, robust, and secure method, which can be seen by evaluating the system using mean square error, peak signal-to-noise ratio, correlation, number of pixels change rate, unified average changing intensity, and entropy, these evaluation metrics provide excellent results. This study suggests a strong and novel method to embed the encrypted data inside video frames which can be employed in secure communication, copyright protection, and data authentication. Merging LoG and ChaCha20 algorithms produce perfect results in both security and visual perception quality, that provides a means for farther achievement in secure data embedding techniques.
Advanced neuroimaging and criminal interrogation in lie detection
Authors: Opancina Valentina , Sebek Vladimir , Janjic Vladimir
Published: September 2024

Hidden information is the key to many security issues. If there is a reliable method to determine whether someone withholds information, many issues of this type can be resolved. However, until now, no method has proven to be reliable, but technical discoveries in the field of neuroimaging have caused a surge of new research in this area. Many neuroimaging techniques can be used, but functional magnetic resonance is the newest method, and its use in extracting and evaluating information from subjects could be the most significant, given that it records brain states in parallel with current mental activity/behavior, enabling the establishment of correlational links between them. Because the brain state displayed during fMRI imaging is the dependent variable measured during stimulus/task condition manipulation, it is necessary to use fMRI data in combination with complementary criminal interrogation techniques to gather information. This could be particularly important when standard interrogational techniques are not enough in order to preserve the common good, especially in “ticking bomb” situations. In this study, we review aspects of the possibility of utilizing advanced neuroimaging in combination with criminal interrogation in cases of serious criminal acts that threaten public safety.
Reproductive genetics and health
Authors: Wyrwoll Margot J. , Steingröver Johanna
Published: September 2024

For those affected, infertility is linked to impaired overall health and reduced life expectancy. In particular, infertile individuals bear an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and different types of cancer, partially due to lifestyle differences and to genetic alterations that cause both infertility and an increased cancer risk. Genetic variants causing an increased CVD risk are more commonly found in infertile individuals, but their link to infertility remains unclear. Offspring of infertile couples, conceived via medically assisted reproduction, are as likely as their parents to exhibit or develop adiposity, hormonal alterations such as insulin resistance, and infertility. The effects on health of subsequent generations are completely unclear.
The hydrated double salt structure of (E)-4-(2-benzylidenehydrazine-1-carbonyl)pyridin-1-ium cation with 2-hydroxybenzoate and benzoate anions
Authors: Setshedi Itumeleng B. , Mokoto Tebogo M. L. , Smith Mark G.
Published: September 2024

2(C13H12N3O)+, 2(C7H4.5O2.5)−, 2(H2O), orthorhombic, Pbca (no. 61), a = 8.2775(5) Å, b = 12.6054(9) Å, c = 35.082(2) Å, V = 3,660.5(4) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt
(F) = 0.0663, wRref
(F
2) = 0.1864, T = 173 K.
The Evidence Project: Genetic (geo)engineering in a climate-changing world
Authors: Montenegro de Wit Maywa , Iles Alastair
Published: September 2024

As agroecologists worldwide explore pathways for food systems transformations, “evidence” is in high demand. But what is evidence? How is it used? By whom and for what audiences? What does evidence support and why? We contend evidence is inherently political and thus relational. In our article, we connect Science and Technology Studies (STS) scholarship on evidence with critiques of colonialism, capitalism, and empire, offering a framework to analyze evidence via interlinked levels of practice, political economy, and ontological foundations. Reviewing 3 historical waves in scientific and technological (S&T) evidence, we show how the production and use of evidence has evolved within the capitalist and colonial/modern world to imbue specific food futures with legitimacy and power. We then turn to our case: gene editing of crops for carbon drawdown. Over the past 5 years, university researchers, start-ups, governments, and intergovernmental agencies have asserted that gene-edited crops will sequester carbon, benefit farmers with nutrient-rich soils, and save Earth from runaway climate change. What evidence do they offer? Using the Salk Institute’s Harnessing Plants Initiative (HPI) as an example, we explore how HPI generates and uses 3 main types of evidence—institutional and human evidence, scientific and technical evidence, and financial/economic evidence—to identify problems, propose solutions, attract funds, and make plans to scale technologies worldwide. We then analyze the political economy factors that drive the production of HPI evidence and the assumptions about evidence etched into its colonial/modern worldview. A relational evidence approach, we find, illuminates how elite actors mobilize resources to actualize futures for which empirical evidence today is thin. Finally, we suggest strategies agroecologists might pursue in a pluriversal transition toward multiple evidentiary terrains: “a world of many worlds” for knowledge, land, and life.
Klasifikasi Hama Dan Penyakit Daun Kapas Berdasarkan Fitur Tekstur Dan Warna Menggunakan Multilayer Perceptron
Authors: Awandi Nadhif Mahardika , Nugroho Budi , Akbar Fawwaz Ali
Published: September 2024

Kapas merupakan bahan baku dari Industri Tekstil dan Produk Tekstil (TPT) di Indonesia. Namun, produksi kapas di Indonesia tidak dapat memenuhi kebutuhan nasional. Untuk meningkatkan produksi kapas, perlu dilakukan identifikasi penyakit dan hama pada tanaman kapas sehingga mendapatkan penanganan yang tepat dan mengatasi terjadinya kegagalan panen. Beberapa penelitian telah dilakukan mengenai identifikasi penyakit pada daun kapas dengan menggunakan kecerdasan buatan. Tetapi, penelitian-penelitan yang telah dilakukan sebelumnya lebih berfokus pada klasifikasi penyakit yang terjadi pada daun kapas. Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini memiliki tujuan untuk membuat sistem yang tidak hanya dapat mengklasifikasi penyakit daun kapas, tetapi dapat juga mengklasifikasi hama yang terdapat pada daun kapas. Bedasarkan pengujian yang telah dilakukan, Tingkat akurasi dalam klasifikasi pada hama dan penyakit tanaman kapas pada data uji menghasilkan nilai akurasi tertinggi sebesar 90%. Nilai tersebut didapatkan pengujian dengan kombinasi fitur Color Moment dan fitur GLCM dengan sudut 0⁰ sebagai input serta arsitektur MLP menggunakan fungsi aktivasi tanh dan 1024 perceptron di hidden layer.
The role of PANDER and its interplay with IL-6 in the regulation of GLP-1 secretion
Authors: Li Zeting , Pei Ling , Xiao Huangmeng , Chen Nan , Lai Fenghua , Yue Shufang , Xu Changliu , Li Yanbing , Xiao Haipeng , Cao Xiaopei
Published: September 2024

Glucose-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a vital hormone in the intestines that regulates glucose metabolism. Although pancreatic-derived factor (PANDER) overexpression is known to suppress GLP-1, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Our study aims to uncover how PANDER influences GLP-1 synthesis and secretion. We established a PANDER overexpression model in STC-1 intestinal cells, confirming its inhibitory effect on GLP-1 secretion. This effect was reversed in PANDER-knockout cells. Additionally, a negative correlation between PANDER and GLP-1 was observed in patients with a history of gestational diabetes. Subsequently, through whole transcriptome gene sequencing in PANDER-overexpressed STC-1 cells, we discovered that the activation of IL-6 and its related STAT3 signaling pathway was significantly inhibited, and this finding was validated by Western blotting and quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Finally, rescue experiments confirmed that the IL-6-related STAT3/Akt/GSK3β/β-catenin signaling pathway mediates the negative regulatory effect of PANDER on GLP-1. Taken together, our data identify IL-6 as a bridge connecting PANDER and GLP-1 in the STC-1 cells, demonstrating potential therapeutic targets for diabetes treatment by targeting the PANDER–IL-6–GLP-1 axis.
Emphasizing autonomic dysregulation evaluation contributes to the diagnosis of ROHHAD syndrome
Authors: Wang Yi , Xu Yingying , Xie Rongrong , Cao Bingyan , Ding Yuan , Guo Jiayun , Li Xiaoqiao , Ni Xiaolin , Yuan Zheng , Chen Linqi , Liang Liyang , Gong Chunxiu
Published: September 2024

Objective

Rapid-onset obesity with hypoventilation, hypothalamic dysfunction, and autonomic dysregulation (ROHHAD) is rare, and manifestations of autonomic dysregulation are diverse and may be overlooked. We aimed to evaluate the incidence of these manifestations.

Methods

Patients with ROHHAD syndrome reported before and after 2019 were divided into groups 1 and 2. Patients who were diagnosed at three regional hospitals in China were included in group 3. We collected the age of each specific term of the ROHHAD (neurogenic tumor, NET) acronym and the detailed manifestations of each term, and compared them among the three groups.

Results

A total of 16 patients were diagnosed within the 2-year period. Two had neurogenic tumors and cognitive and behavioral abnormalities before developing rapid obesity. At least 93.8% of the patients had ≥ 4 symptoms of autonomic dysregulation. When comparing autonomic dysregulation among groups 1–3, the rates of cardiovascular manifestations were NA vs 12.8% vs 81.2%; gastrointestinal disturbances were 11.4% vs 8.5% vs 62.5%; strabismus was 25.7% vs 12.8% vs 62.5%; sleep disturbance was NA vs 6.4% vs 50.0%; and abnormal pain threshold was NA vs 10.6% vs 25.0% (all P < 0.05). The rates of cognitive and behavioral abnormalities were NA vs 29.8% and 87.5% (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Rapid-onset obesity is not always the first sign of ROHHAD syndrome. Higher rates of autonomic dysregulation and cognitive and behavioral abnormalities with multiple manifestations of autonomic dysregulation coexisted in our cohort, indicating that evaluations of autonomic function and the limbic system should be strengthened when assessing this condition.