bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upconversion Enhancement Using Dielectric Metasurfaces
Authors: Azar Nima Sefidmooye , Parry Matthew , Qi Xiao , Lee Changhwan , Lee Wendy S. L. , Luo Wei , de Gille Robert , Choi Duk-Yong , Mulvaney Paul , Schuck P. James , Chan Emory , Cohen Bruce , Neshev Dragomir N. , Crozier Kenneth B.
Published: September 2024

We integrate infrared-to-visible upconverting nanoparticles with an asymmetric dielectric metasurface to enhance their upconversion efficiency. An upconversion enhancement of up to ~100 times is achieved. We also demonstrate infrared-to-visible upconversion imaging using fabricated devices.
Unidirectional Dispersive Grating Emitters for Silicon Photonic Beam Steerers
Authors: Chen Fa-Lun , Yiu Gow-Zin , Chang You-Chia
Published: September 2024

We demonstrate unidirectional grating emitters in which the phase-matching condition is satisfied only for the upward diffraction. The fabricated device shows unidirectionality of 83% and strong angular dispersion of 0.81°/nm, enabling efficient beam steering.
Strong phase modulation in integrated O-band GeSi-QCSE waveguide modulators
Authors: Tseng Chih-Kuo Neil , Kandeel Ahmed , Berciano Mathias , Malik Dharmander , Kobbi Hakim , Yudistira Didit , Van Thourhout Dries , Chakrabarti Maumita , Velenis Dimitrios , Verheyen Peter , Ban Yoojin , Ferraro Filippo , Van Campenhout Joris
Published: September 2024

A phase modulation efficiency of 0.036 V-cm is obtained in O-band GeSi-based QCSE waveguide modulators integrated in a 300 mm silicon photonics platform.
What is a heat wave: A survey and literature synthesis of heat wave definitions across the United States
Authors: Bunting Erin L. , Tolmanov Vasily , Keellings David
Published: September 2024

Heat waves are the last extreme weather events without a formal, on the books, definition. Instead, across the U.S. those working on extreme heat event management, forecasting, and planning are using differing definitions in their work. With such differing definitions being used there are widespread impacts including some to human and environmental health, natural resource management, and long-term emergency management planning. For instance, when should heat advisories for vulnerable populations be released when an event impacts a region using multiple definitions? There are concrete and justifiable reasons for the lack of a formal heat wave definition including, at its simplest, differences in what temperature is extreme enough, compared to the region’s climatological regimens, to be deemed as an extreme heat event or heat wave. This study looks for patterns and commonalities in emergency managers and climatologists, those most commonly addressing or planning for such events, definition of heat wave events through a review of the literature and widespread survey across the United States. Through a short 11-questions survey and subsequent text mining, we find widespread variability in the common heat wave definitions but a consistent pattern of core key term usage including aspects of heat duration, extreme temperature, and humidity. However, we also see little to no usage of non-climatological variables such as exposure, vulnerability, population, and land cover/land use.
Hope amidst neglect: Mycetoma Research Center, University of Khartoum. A holistic management approach to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Fahal Ahmed Hassan , Ahmed Iman Siddig , Saaed Ali Awadallah , Smith Dallas J. , Alves Fabiana , Nyaoke Borna , Asiedu Kingsley , Hay Roderick
Published: September 2024

Mycetoma is a debilitating neglected tropical disease that affects individuals worldwide, particularly in regions where there is poverty and limited health care access. The Mycetoma Research Center (MRC), based in Khartoum, Sudan, provides a sustainable, holistic approach to patient care as the only World Health Organization collaborating center for mycetoma. We describe MRC activities that align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals to control mycetoma in Sudan and globally.
Epigenetic Biomarkers and the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway in Opisthorchis viverrini-associated Cholangiocarcinoma: A Scoping Review on Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Kafle Alok , Suttiprapa Sutas , Muhammad Mubarak , Tenorio Jan Clyden B. , Mahato Roshan Kumar , Sahimin Norhidayu , Loong Shih Keng
Published: September 2024

Background

Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, are pivotal in regulating gene expression pathways related to inflammation and cancer. While there is substantial research on epigenetic markers in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), Opisthorchis viverrini-induced cholangiocarcinoma (Ov-CCA) is overlooked as a neglected tropical disease (NTD) with limited representation in the literature. Considering the distinct etiological agent, pathogenic mechanisms, and pathological manifestations, epigenetic research plays a pivotal role in uncovering markers and potential targets related to the cancer-promoting and morbidity-inducing liver fluke parasite prevalent in the Great Mekong Subregion (GMS). Emerging studies highlight a predominant hypermethylation phenotype in Opisthorchis viverrini (O. viverrini) tumor tissues, underscoring the significance of abnormal DNA methylation and histone modifications in genes and their promoters as reliable targets for Ov-CCA.

Principal findings

Relevant published literature was identified by searching major electronic databases using targeted search queries. This process retrieved a total of 81 peer-reviewed research articles deemed eligible for inclusion, as they partially or fully met the pre-defined selection criteria. These eligible articles underwent a qualitative synthesis and were included in the scoping review. Within these, 11 studies specifically explored Ov-CCA tissues to investigate potential epigenetic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This subset of 11 articles provided a foundation for exploring the applications of epigenetics-based therapies and biomarkers for Ov-CCA. These articles delved into various epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, and examined genes with aberrant epigenetic changes linked to deregulated signalling pathways in Ov-CCA progression.

Conclusions

This review identified epigenetic changes and Wnt/β-catenin pathway deregulation as key drivers in Ov-CCA pathogenesis. Promoter hypermethylation of specific genes suggests potential diagnostic biomarkers and dysregulation of Wnt/β-catenin-modulating genes contributes to pathway activation in Ov-CCA progression. Reversible epigenetic changes offer opportunities for dynamic disease monitoring and targeted interventions. Therefore, this study underscores the importance of these epigenetic modifications in Ov-CCA development, suggesting novel therapeutic targets within disrupted signalling networks. However, additional validation is crucial for translating these novel insights into clinically applicable strategies, enhancing personalised Ov-CCA management approaches.
Determinants of care-seeking behavior for sexually transmitted infections among sexually active men in East Africa: A multilevel mixed effect analysis
Authors: Seifu Beminate Lemma , Fente Bezawit Melak , Melkam Mamaru , Asmare Zufan Alamrie , Asnake Angwach Abrham , Bezie Meklit Melaku , Asebe Hiwot Altaye , Negussie Yohannes Mekuria
Published: September 2024

Background

Addressing the global challenge of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is crucial and demands immediate attention. Raising awareness, improving healthcare facilities, and implementing preventive measures are necessary to reduce the spread and mitigate their adverse effects. The treatment seeking behavior of individuals in relation to STIs is an important factor in STI prevention and control. Thus, this study aimed to identify factors associated with STI-related care-seeking behavior among sexually active men in East Africa.

Methods

A weighted sample of 3,302 sexually active men from recent Demographic and Health Surveys (DHSs) in East African countries were included for analysis. To accommodate the inherent clustering in DHS data and the binary nature of the dependent variable, we applied a multi-level mixed-effect logistic regression model. The deviance value was used to select the best-fitted model. The strength of the association was estimated using an adjusted odds ratio, along with a 95% confidence interval, and statistical significance was determined at a p-value < 0.05.

Result

The pooled prevalence of STI-related care-seeking behavior among sexually active men in East Africa was 71% (95%CI: 69.76, 72.75). In the multivariable multilevel model, individuals in the age groups of 25–34 (AOR = 1.58, 95%CI: 1.22, 2.04) and 44 years and above (AOR = 1.44, 95%CI: 1.01, 2.02), those who were married (AOR = 1.62, 95%CI: 1.25, 2.11), had 1 (AOR = 1.88, 95%CI: 1.50, 2.35) and ≥2 (AOR = 2.53, 95%CI: 1.89, 3.39) sexual partners excluding their spouse, had ever been tested for HIV (AOR = 1.86, 95%CI: 1.52, 2.28), and had media exposure (AOR = 1.30, 95%CI: 1.04, 1.62) had a positive association with care-seeking behavior for STIs.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, seven out of ten sexually active men in East Africa exhibit care-seeking behavior for STIs. It is crucial to implement policies and strategies aimed at improving the health-seeking habits of young, unmarried men. Utilizing diverse media platforms to disseminate accurate information and success stories about STI symptoms is pivotal in achieving this goal.
Disease tolerance as immune defense strategy in bats: One size fits all?
Authors: Pei Gang , Balkema-Buschmann Anne , Dorhoi Anca
Published: September 2024

Bats are natural reservoirs for zoonotic pathogens, yet the determinants of microbial persistence as well as the specific functionality of their immune system remain largely enigmatic. Their propensity to harbor viruses lethal to humans and/or livestock, mostly in absence of clinical disease, makes bats stand out among mammals. Defending against pathogens relies on avoidance, resistance, and/or tolerance strategies. In bats, disease tolerance has recently gained increasing attention as a prevailing host defense paradigm. We here summarize the current knowledge on immune responses in bats in the context of infection with zoonotic agents and discuss concepts related to disease tolerance. Acknowledging the wide diversity of bats, the broad spectrum of bat-associated microbial species, and immune-related knowledge gaps, we identify research priorities necessary to provide evidence-based proofs for disease tolerance in bats. Since disease tolerance relies on networks of biological processes, we emphasize that investigations beyond the immune system, using novel technologies and computational biology, could jointly advance our knowledge about mechanisms conferring bats reservoir abilities. Although disease tolerance may not be the “one fit all” defense strategy, deciphering disease tolerance in bats could translate into novel therapies and inform prevention of spillover infections to humans and livestock.
Evaluation of glucose lowering potential of Murraya paniculata plant on alloxan-induced diabetic mice
Authors: Qasim Zainab Ali , Khamees Amjed Haseeb
Published: September 2024

Numerous cultures have a history of using herbal remedies to manage diabetes based on the belief that some plants possess antidiabetic properties with limited adverse effects. Murraya paniculata plant displays pharmacological properties that combat several ailments such as diabetes, bacterial infections, cancer, diarrhea and anxiety. This study aimed at phytochemical investigation and the evaluation of the blood glucose lowering impact of M. paniculata plant extracts on diabetic mice stimulated by alloxan. 85% methanolic extract of M. paniculata was fractionated using petroleum ether, chloroform and ethyl acetate. Various qualitative chemical assays were conducted to categorize different groups of chemicals in the plant extracts. An oral dose of 500 mg/kg of petroleum ether, chloroform, and ethyl acetate extracts from the whole plant of M. paniculata was given to alloxan-stimulated diabetic mice for 14 days. Blood glucose levels were measured using a glucometer and compared with non-diabetic mice, alloxan-induced diabetic mice without treatment and diabetic mice treated with metformin. The results of the phytochemical analysis detected various secondary metabolites in distinct fractions of the extract. Also, the study found no statistically significant difference in blood glucose levels among the non-diabetic group, the group treated with metformin, and those treated with chloroform or ethyl acetate extract, but the group that received petroleum ether extract treatment exhibited a notable difference compared to the other groups in the study. This study concluded that the ethyl acetate and chloroform extracts of M. paniculata effectively regulated blood glucose levels in mice with diabetes caused by alloxan.
Diagnostic accuracy of endoscopic optical evaluation and forceps biopsy in comparison with pathohistological findings of colorectal laterally spreading tumors
Authors: Tkachov V. S. , Klymenko A. V. , Kiosov O. M.
Published: September 2024

Following the principles of image-enhanced endoscopy and using standardized endoscopic classifications, it is possible to predict the morphological diagnosis of colorectal neoplasms with high accuracy. The large size and uneven surface of lesion significantly complicates a thorough examination, and routine biopsy is still widely practiced, despite its drawbacks. This makes it necessary to compare the results of optical and forceps biopsy and determine the expediency of performing the latter for different types of colorectal laterally spreading tumors (LST).
Aim. To compare the pit and vascular pattern, determined endoscopically, with histopathological findings in LST, with the calculation of the diagnostic accuracy of optical evaluation and forceps biopsy. To ascertain the relationship between lesion size, morphological type, and the presence of malignant changes.
Materials and methods. 80 LST ≥20 mm were included in the study. Expert image-enhanced endoscopy with NBI and utilizing Paris, Kudo, JNET and Hiroshima classifications was employed for optical evaluation and stratification of lesions. Target forceps biopsy was obtained from areas showing the most progressive changes. The data from optical biopsy and the pathohistology of forceps biopsy specimens were compared with the results of the pathohistological findings of removed LST. Statistics were calculated in the Statistica 13.
Results. Group 1 comprised 30 patients with non-granular type LST, while group 2 consisted of 50 patients with granular type LST. The median diameter was 20 mm (IQR, 20; 25) and 40 mm (IQR, 25; 50), adenocarcinoma loci were found in 10 % and 32 % in the first and second groups, respectively. Correlations between lesion localization and LST subtype were assessed, as well as between the presence of malignant changes and the size and morphological type of the lesions. Comparative indicators of sensitivity (80.0 % / 81.8 % in the first and 76.7 % / 80.0 % in the second group), diagnostic accuracy (93.3 % for both methods in the first and 84.0 % / 86.0 % in the second group), and also predictive values were revealed for optical evaluation / forceps biopsy, respectively. The specificity was identical and amounted to 100 % in the first and 95 % in the second group. In all cases, p < 0.01.
Conclusions. Mixed type LST-G lesions occur more often in the rectum, whereas flat elevated LST-NG lesions – in the transverse colon. The presence of adenocarcinoma correlates with the morphological type of tubulovillous adenoma and the larger size of the tumor; larger LSTs are more frequently tubulovillous adenomas. Optical and forceps biopsies demonstrate higher accuracy for non-granular types of LST compared to granular types. Forceps biopsy does not confer any advantages over optical biopsy and is not recommended for routine use.
Pathogenetic features of iNOS expression in the basal magnocellular nucleus of rats against the background of experimental neurodegeneration
Authors: Danukalo M. V. , Kolesnyk Yu. M.
Published: September 2024

Aim. To characterize the features of iNOS expression in neurons of the basal magnocellular nucleus against the background of nitrosative stress during experimental colchicine-induced neurodegeneration.
Materials and methods. The study was conducted on 30 male Wistar rats. At the first stage of the experiment, cognitive impairments were modeled in rats (n = 10) by intracerebroventricular injection of colchicine, and compared with sham-operated and intact animal groups, the validity of the model was demonstrated using an 8-arm radial maze LE760 (PanLab Harvard Apparatus, Spain). Subsequently, the animals were euthanized with sodium thiopental, and the brain was removed for histological, immunofluorescence, and biochemical analyses.
Results. It was found that intracerebroventricular injection of colchicine compared to intact and sham-operated animals leads to disruption of histoarchitecture in the basal magnocellular nucleus of rats with a significant decrease in the Nissl substance area in neurons by 47.3 % and 35.9 %, respectively. At the same time, the level of nitrites in the brain homogenates of animals with experimental neurodegeneration exceeded the comparison groups almost 10 times (intact) and 7 times (sham-operated rats). Meanwhile, immunofluorescence investigation of iNOS expression in the basal magnocellular nucleus of rats with intracerebroventricular colchicine administration, compared to intact and sham-operated animals, revealed a significantly higher value of corrected total cell fluorescence by 22.7 % and 45.3 %, respectively. Simultaneously, it was established that experimental colchicine-induced neurodegeneration is accompanied by a significantly greater number of iNOS+ cells in the basal magnocellular nucleus compared to control groups.
Conclusions. Intracerebroventricular injection of colchicine to experimental rats is accompanied by morphological signs of neurodestruction in the basal magnocellular nucleus against the background of nitrosative stress. iNOS expression in rats after intracerebroventricular colchicine administration in the cells of the basal magnocellular nucleus is characterized by a higher enzyme content compared to intact and sham-operated animals. The area of immunopositive cells between experimental groups does not change statistically. Intracerebroventricular administration of colchicine to experimental rats is accompanied by an increase in the number of immunopositive cells for iNOS in the basal magnocellular nucleus.
Peri-implant osteogenesis on alumina-coated titanium implants in rat femur: morphological and elemental analysis of implant surfaces
Authors: Bondarenko O. O. , Bozhko A. H. , Skoryk M. A. , Bondarenko N. S. , Shponka I. S. , Loskutov O. Ye.
Published: September 2024

Peri-implant bone tissue regeneration involves complex processes that are not yet fully understood at the cellular and molecular levels, leaving significant gaps in our knowledge that require further investigation.
Aim. The study aimed to compare peri-implant osteogenesis on titanium femoral implants with alumina composite coatings applied by different methods to conventional titanium implants in an animal model.
Materials and methods. Implants underwent sandblasting with silicon carbide, plasma torch treatment, and coating with titanium, corundum, sprayed titanium wire, or hydroxyapatite, resulting in seven different surfaces. 105 female Wistar rats received implants in their right femurs and were divided into 7 groups based on implant type and exposure duration (1, 2, or 4 weeks). Implant fragments were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to quantify chemical elements. Ratios of carbon to nitrogen and calcium to phosphorus were calculated. Data were analyzed using the U-Mann–Whitney test, with р < 0.05 as a significant value.
Results. The energy dispersive X-spectrometry results confirmed morphological analysis findings by quantitatively and qualitatively assessing implants surface chemical composition. The key elements were evaluated, relevant for identifying bone tissue components like collagen (C and N) and hydroxyapatite (Ca and P), as well as implant coatings (Ti, Al, Ca, and P). Carbon and phosphorus showed fluctuations over time, with notable differences among groups. Aluminum appeared stable in some groups but varied in others. Calcium levels remained low initially and increased steadily in hydroxyapatite coated implants. Titanium levels were high initially, decreasing slightly over time. Morphological analysis correlated with surface roughness measurements. Notably, fibrin, collagen, and bone tissue presence varied among groups over time, with some groups showing significant mineralized bone tissue accumulation. After four weeks, blood clots persisted in some groups, while others exhibited bone tissue remodeling with the presence of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Alumina-based coatings showed signs of degradation, with alumina cement scales found among macrophages and fibers.
Conclusions. Our study found that stable bone implants outperform alumina-composite coatings in long-term osseointegration due to mechanical stability. Although ceramic composites initially enhance osteoinductive properties, better attachment to titanium substrates is needed.
The life and death of Webfuse
Authors: Jones David
Published: September 2024

Drawing on the 14-year life and death of an integrated online learning environment used by tens of thousands of people, this paper argues that many of the principles and practices underpinning industrial e-learning – the current dominant institutional model – are inappropriate. The paper illustrates how industrial e-learning can limit outcomes of tertiary e-learning and limits the abilities of universities to respond to uncertainty and effectively explore the future of learning. It limits their ability to learn. The paper proposes one alternate set of successfully implemented principles and practices as being more appropriate for institutions seeking to learn for the future and lead in a climate of change.
Learning for the future
Authors: Billany Ruth , Royal Bernadette , Lys Isabelle
Published: September 2024

This paper reports on a project stimulated by two major challenges facing higher education in the twenty-first century; massification and the citizenisation of academies. This empirical study reports on the use of emergent technologies, in the acquisition of information, for diverse cohorts of students enrolled in two scientific subjects (n=47). A generic online library skills tutorial (LST) in one subject is compared to an embedded virtual, context-specific LST in another. Student attitudinal evaluation, both affective and cognitive, was measured by an 18-item online survey. The rich qualia showed a ten-fold difference which adds to a body of knowledge which was reinforced by an objective measure, a graded assignment. As consumers, the students have been valued and voiced their demands. Lecturers and librarians need to lead in this climate of change to develop a creative and emergent, reciprocal non-linear mechanism to build on this trajectory and plan a future for learning.
LMS Encounters: Promises and Realities
Authors: Al-Mahmood Reem
Published: September 2024

Although there are radical opportunities afforded by e-learning technologies (Hemmi, Bayne & Land, 2009), digital Learning Management Systems (LMSs) can be risky and ?disorienting spaces? for participants (Bayne & Ross, 2007) even though they often replicate traditional rituals and forms of university bricks and mortar teaching spaces. Whilst we need e-platform standards, we also need flexibility and diversity to avoid replicating sameness in LMS design and implementation. In any educational platform selection, there are always risks and uncertainties, but if we embrace informed, sustainable and ecological design, we can evolve beyond purely market-driven agendas towards pedagogical designs that have a 'learning-centric university mission' (Ellis & Goodyear, 2010, p. 153). This paper juxtaposes LMS discourses in theory with participant LMS experiences in practice. Emergent tensions of (hyper)textualising the university are discussed with/against neoliberal agendas of the (dis)embodied individual. At the forefront of our research agendas, we need to move beyond espoused e-learning technology promises to consider participant realities to inform (e)learning designs and choices, whilst experimenting with how to create sustainable learning/knowledge spaces for sustainable (e)learning futures.
Mobile learning
Authors: Timoko Travis
Published: September 2024

This paper presents the findings of a small exploratory study that evaluated the effectiveness of mobile learning to supplement the face-to-face teaching and learning of a whakairo (M?ori carving) three-day course for secondary school age M?ori. The study found that in relation to participant learning, the use of mlearning to supplement the learning experience appeared to improve the knowledge transfer or ability to recall key elements relevant to the course for the experimental group. This study forms the basis for further research in the area of mlearning for secondary school age students within tikanga M?ori learning environments. It is anticipated that the research will contribute to a tikanga-based framework, shaping the future of learning in Aotearoa.
Designing and recording machinima to illustrate professional practice scenarios
Authors: Masters Yvonne , Dalgarno Barney , Gregory Sue
Published: September 2024

Immersive virtual worlds, such as Second Life, have attracted widespread interest in recent years as platforms for online role-plays of professional practice scenarios. An alternative application of virtual worlds is the video recording of in-world role-play activities, "machinima", for later use as stimuli for class discussions or individual reflective activities. The scripting and recording of machinima to illustrate particular practice scenarios is seen as an alternative to recording video in authentic practice contexts, potentially addressing some of the inherent ethical and logistic issues. This paper describes the process used to design, record and produce machinima illustrating a series of classic classroom teaching practice scenarios as part of the Office for Learning and Teaching VirtualPREX project.
Future-Thinking Flexible Learning Development
Authors: Macken Claire , Hannon John
Published: September 2024

Can you imagine the student's experience in higher education beyond 2020? How will teaching approaches have changed? How will learning technologies play a role in the 21st century student? In higher education, institutions will need to be future focused. So far, institutional change in the use of learning technologies has been dominated by an applied or pragmatic focus that persists despite the increase in uses of constructivist pedagogies and the potential of the read/write web, or Web 2.0. This paper proposes a new, future thinking and sustainable approach to flexible learning development. This approach engages with factors that are often ignored in applied design approaches to learning technologies, including the change management problems associated with introducing flexible learning into higher education institutions and conflicting institutional practices when using technology systems. The sustainable design approach proposed in this paper is referred to as "FOLD": Flexible and Online Learning Development, as introduced at La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia.
Mobility makes us agile and lean
Authors: Klapdor Tim
Published: September 2024

The mLearn Project at Charles Sturt University (CSU) is an attempt to establish a new philosophy for large-scale institutional initiatives that borrows aspects from the technology companies based out of Silicon Valley. This paper will outline the concepts that have been adopted as well as the rationale for this change in tact. The project is running in 2012 and into 2013 over three teaching sessions and it is hoped will foster innovation through trials of technology, mobilising system access and developing mobile enhanced learning resources. Findings and reflections from the project will be published over the next 18 months.
Sustaining the future through virtual worlds
Authors: Gregory Sue , Jacka Lisa , Stokes-Thompson Frederick , Farley Helen , Scutter Sheila , Neuendorf Penelope , Mathews Shane , Garcia Jaime , Meredith Grant , Grant Scott , Giovanangeli Angela , Cram Andrew , Muir Tracey , Grenfell Jenny , Williams Anthony , McCarthy Angela , Gregory Brent , Schutt Stefan , Wood Denise , Orwin Lindy , Warren Ian , Bower Matt , Butler Des , Jegathesan Jay Jay , Muir-Cochran Eimear , Atkins Clare , Le Rossignol Karen , Linegar Dale , Cleland Ben , Hay Lyn , Simoff Simeon , Hillier Mathew , Ellis David , Masters Yvonne , Stupans Ieva , Steel Caroline , Miller Charlynn , Hearns Merle , Brown Ross , Flintoff Kim , Gaukrodger Belma , Larson Ian , Wang Xiangyu , Paillat Edith , Gu Ning , Bogdanovych Anton
Published: September 2024

Virtual worlds (VWs) continue to be used extensively in Australia and New Zealand higher education institutions although the tendency towards making unrealistic claims of efficacy and popularity appears to be over. Some educators at higher education institutions continue to use VWs in the same way as they have done in the past; others are exploring a range of different VWs or using them in new ways; whilst some are opting out altogether. This paper presents an overview of how 46 educators from some 26 institutions see VWs as an opportunity to sustain higher education. The positives and negatives of using VWs are discussed.
Leading the evaluation of institutional online learning environments for quality enhancement in times of change
Authors: Gosper Maree , Holt Dale , Palmer Stuart , Allan G. , Hicks M. , Hollenbeck R. , Monro Judy , Sankey Michael , Solmonides I.
Published: September 2024

This paper reports on findings from a nationally funded project which aims to design and implement a quality management framework for online learning environments (OLEs). Evaluation is a key component of any quality management system and it is this aspect of the framework that is the focus of this paper. In developing the framework initial focus groups were conducted at the five participating institutions. These revealed that, although regarded as important, there did not appear to be a shared understanding of the nature and purpose of evaluation. A second series of focus groups revealed there were multiple perspectives arising from those with a vested interest in online learning. These perspectives will be outlined. Overall, how evaluation was undertaken was highly variable within and across the five institutions reflecting where they were at in relation to the development of their OLE.
Using e-readers to increase access to course content for students without Internet access
Authors: Murphy Angela , Martin Neil , Farley Helen
Published: September 2024

There have been mixed reviews about the potential of e-readers to enhance higher education. At first glance, e-readers appear to have significant potential to provide students with access to course content and learning materials. There are a number of considerations and obstacles to be addressed, however, before these devices are ready for widespread adoption. This paper reports on a pilot study using e-readers to provide students without internet access, with access to electronic course content. Course readings were converted into ePub format and were made available to a cohort of 16 incarcerated students via e-readers. This paper provides an overview of the steps undertaken as well the challenges and obstacles encountered in converting the readings to ePub format.
Developing medical students’ information skills through online self-paced learning
Authors: Gallagher Sarah K. J.
Published: September 2024

StudySmart is an online course designed for second year medical students at the University of Otago. This course was designed to replace a two hour library and information skills lab, and comprises a series of topics, tasks and quizzes. The course was built within the existing learning management system (LMS), Moodle. The content was made up of resources developed in-house as well as appropriate OERs from external sources. The online course was run as a pilot in 2012 and has involved three stages of evaluation: evaluative questions in the topic quizzes; post course reflective evaluation; and a focus group session. This poster presents the findings from the implementation and evaluation of this self-directed online course. The online course was designed to support the development of information skills in order to assist students with a significant summative assessment. The majority of students who completed the course reported a gain in knowledge and understanding about the topics covered, and reported that aspects of the course enhanced their ability to complete their assessment.
Continuance theory and teacher education
Authors: Wright Noeline
Published: September 2024

Continuance theory is usually related to the regular use of technology in the business/industry area. It attempts to explain why people either continue to use specific technologies in their work, or not. Essentially, it links to the perceived value to individuals' ability to work effectively, however that is understood in their workplace. In the profession of education, particularly schools and teacher education, the perceived value of continued use is not about individuals and their work, but about individuals' work with groups of students and what happens to learning when these digital technologies are used. Continued use is contingent on their students' positive responses to these technologies supporting learning. I examine, in the light of continuance theory, what happens when student teachers in an initial secondary teacher education programme report on including digital technologies on practicum. This includes reporting on the effect students' responses have on their subsequent attitudes and practices regarding digital technologies in learning contexts.
Digital communities
Authors: Reushle Shirley , McDonald Jacquie
Published: September 2024

In 2011, a robust, on-campus, three-element Community of Practice model consisting of growing community, sharing of practice and building domain knowledge was piloted in a digital learning environment. An interim evaluation of the pilot study revealed that the three-element framework, when used in a digital environment, required a fourth element. This element, which appears to happen incidentally in the face-to-face context, is that of reflecting, reporting and revising. This paper outlines the extension of the pilot study to the national tertiary education context in order to explore the implications for the design, leadership roles, and selection of appropriate technologies to support and sustain digital communities using the four-element model.
State sector in the banking of the interwar Poland
Authors: Landau Zbigniew
Published: September 2024

Successive cabinets of the II Polish Republic adhered to the principles of free- market economy, except for the government of Jędrzej Moraczewski in the late 1918, and of Felicjan Sławoj Składkowski in 1935-39. In such a system, the main responsibility of the state was to define the general framework of economic goals and operations, and not to directly engage in any economic enterprise, which was the sole domain of the private sector. In Poland, however, the principles were not fully respected, and all governments, to a lesser or greater degree, followed the rules of a state-controlled economy. Partially, this was a result of the circumstances which forced governments to undertake some economic actions which, for some reasons, appealed neither to Polish nor foreign investors.
Patent Clearinghouse and Technology Diffusion: What is the Contribution of Arbitration Agreements?
Authors: Bacchiega Emanuele , Bonroy Olivier , Hervouet Adrien
Published: September 2024

One of the acknowledged advantages of patent clearinghouses is that they favor the diffusion of technology. In traditional clearinghouses, patents are usually bundled in pools and sold at a pre-set price. Recently, in the biotechnology industry a new form of clearinghouse has been observed, where patent tariffs are instead bargained over by the clearinghouse members. Exchange is then guaranteed by arbitration agreements to which the negotiating parties are bound, should their bargaining reach a dead end. This paper assesses the effect on technology diffusion of this new type of clearinghouse. We show that such arbitration agreements, through their effect on the outside options, may reduce the incentives of a member of the clearinghouse to license to non-members. This result highlights the role of such arbitration agreements in the diffusion of technology outside the clearinghouse.
Robbery, Restitution, and Remembrance in Germany
Authors: Duma Veronika
Published: September 2024

The essay draws a panorama of the current state of the Holocaust compensation and provenance research in Germany. It discusses the German politic of “Wiedergutmachung”, the recent cases of restitution, the public debate about commemoration and the challenges when it comes to restituting objects robbed 80 years ago. On the one hand, Germany – especially with regards to restitution measures up to the 1960s – is used as a role model in the international discourse on restitution issues. On the other hand, there is also a history of critique accompanying the German “Widergutmachungspolitik”. The essay argues that future research should analytically separate the different levels of the history of compensation: the official German discourse and wording of commemoration politics, the history of actual payments, the research and remembrance done by institutions like universities or memorials, and the initiatives of survivor organizations and civil society. They follow their own agendas and often are contradictory.
Nonlinear finite-element analysis of RC beams with various opening near supports
Authors: Ali M. Taher Hawra Mohamed
Published: September 2024

The structural integrity of a reinforced concrete (RC) beam could be compromised by the need for web holes for utilities like air conditioning and electricity. In places with high shear loads, these voids may appear near the columns supporting the structure. The impact of web openings close to the supports on the behavior of RC beams is inspected numerically in this article. Four-point loads were applied to the supports of seven RC beams with holes of varied sizes and locations. The crack patterns and deflections of the seven beams were analyzed in comparison to those of a solid RC beam without an aperture. The goal of the experiment was to verify that all simulation procedures were accurate and complete. The numerical analysis results showed that the experimentally tested failure load was in excellent consent with the numerical results. Therefore, the finite-element approach is a particularly reliable technique for exploring the nonlinear behavior of beams with multiple apertures, both from the perspectives of difficulty and time savings. Analytical and code equations were used to compare the measured load–deflection magnitude and shear strength of the examined RC beams to their prophesied values. The test findings demonstrated that the shear load capacity of RC beams was reduced by as much as 24.9% as compared to a solid beam, as shown by testing results. The shear load capacity for small-size openings was less than the solid beam by 12.8, 21.1, and 21.6%, while for the biggest openings by 34.6, 29.5, and 34.2% when taking the distance from the support 0, 100, and 200 mm.
Good Art as a Civilizing Enterprise: Collingwood Against Mass Corruption of Consciousness
Authors: Collins David
Published: September 2024

It is surprising that the connections between Collingwood’s aesthetics and his political philosophy have been little explored, considering the distinctly social focus of the final chapter of The Principles of Art (1938) and the political motivation behind Collingwood’s worries about the “corruption of consciousness,” to which he sees art as a potential remedy. This essay explores this connection, arguing for a strong parallel between this idea of the corruption of consciousness and what Collingwood, in The New Leviathan (1942), calls “barbarism.” I argue that bringing out this parallel helps shed light on the central importance that Collingwood saw art having for civilization itself.
Psychological aspects of infertility
Authors: Wischmann Tewes
Published: September 2024

The unfulfilled desire for children is a significant problem worldwide. The psychological effects of this development are usually underestimated, while the myth of “psychogenic infertility” stubbornly persists. This article first provides an overview of the basic facts on the subject before highlighting the psychological effects of both the diagnosis of infertility and the therapeutic options. Psychological aspects of “third-party” reproduction and further developments after childbirth or without a child are discussed, followed by a brief outline of the general and specific subject matter addressed in infertility counselling. The article concludes with reflections on the possible psychological consequences of further medical developments in this area.
Neural network-assisted meta-router for fiber mode and polarization demultiplexing
Authors: Zhao Yu , Wang Huijiao , Huang Tian , Guan Zhiqiang , Li Zile , Yu Lei , Yu Shaohua , Zheng Guoxing
Published: September 2024

Advancements in computer science have propelled society into an era of data explosion, marked by a critical need for enhanced data transmission capacity, particularly in the realm of space-division multiplexing and demultiplexing devices for fiber communications. However, recently developed mode demultiplexers primarily focus on mode divisions within one dimension rather than multiple dimensions (i.e., intensity distributions and polarization states), which significantly limits their applicability in space-division multiplexing communications. In this context, we introduce a neural network-assisted meta-router to recognize intensity distributions and polarization states of optical fiber modes, achieved through a single layer of metasurface optimized via neural network techniques. Specifically, a four-mode meta-router is theoretically designed and experimentally characterized, which enables four modes, comprising two spatial modes with two polarization states, independently divided into distinct spatial regions, and successfully recognized by positions of corresponding spatial regions. Our framework provides a paradigm for fiber mode demultiplexing apparatus characterized by application compatibility, transmission capacity, and function scalability with ultra-simple design and ultra-compact device. Merging metasurfaces, neural network and mode routing, this proposed framework paves a practical pathway towards intelligent metasurface-aided optical interconnection, including applications such as fiber communication, object recognition and classification, as well as information display, processing, and encryption.
High-efficiency and broadband asymmetric spin–orbit interaction based on high-order composite phase modulation
Authors: Ou Yuzhong , Chen Yan , Zhang Fei , Pu Mingbo , Jiang Mengna , Xu Mingfeng , Guo Yinghui , Feng Chaolong , Gao Ping , Luo Xiangang
Published: September 2024

Asymmetric spin–orbit interaction (ASOI) breaks the limitations in conjugate symmetry of traditional geometric phase metasurfaces, bringing new opportunities for various applications such as spin-decoupled holography, imaging, and complex light field manipulation. Since anisotropy is a requirement for spin–orbit interactions, existing ASOI mainly relies on meta-atom with C1 and C2 symmetries, which usually suffer from an efficiency decrease caused by the propagation phase control through the structural size. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that ASOI can be realized in meta-atoms with rotational symmetry ≥3 by combining the generalized geometric phase with the propagation phase. Utilizing an all-metallic configuration, the average diffraction efficiency of the spin-decoupled beam deflector based on C3 meta-atoms reaches ∼84 % in the wavelength range of 9.3–10.6 μm, which is much higher than that of the commonly used C2 meta-atoms with the same period and height. This is because the anisotropy of the C3 metasurface originates from the lattice coupling effect, which is relatively insensitive to the propagation phase control through the meta-atom size. A spin-decoupled beam deflector and hologram meta-device were experimentally demonstrated and performed well over a broadband wavelength range. This work opens a new route for ASOI, which is significant for realizing high-efficiency and broadband spin-decoupled meta-devices.
Crystal structure of (R)(R)-5-chloro-3-((S,1E,3E)-3,5-dimethyl-hepta-1,3-dien-1-yl)-7-methyl-6,8-dioxo-2,6,7,8-tetrahydroisoquinolin-7-yl acetate, C21H24ClNO4
Authors: Bi Shu-Feng , Li Hong-Lei , Li Fei-Fei , Chen Xiang-Yang
Published: September 2024

C21H24CINO4, monoclinic, P21 (no. 14), a = 8.6813(3) Å, b = 7.3821(2) Å, c = 16.0325(6) Å, β = 105.282(2)°, V = 991.13(6) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0405, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1014, T = 296.15 K.
The crystal structure of (E)-(2-(2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene)aminophenyl)arsonic acid, C14H14AsNO5
Authors: Cai Bin , Ke Jia-Bo , Wu Cen-Cen , An Yi-Bo , Qiao Yu , Li Shuo
Published: September 2024

C14H14AsNO5, monoclinic, P21 (no. 4), a = 8.5830(5) Å, b = 7.0799(5) Å, c = 11.6011(7) Å, β = 100.059(2)∘, V = 694.13(8) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt(F) = 0.0288, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0603, T = 150.0 K.
Minor millets: Processing techniques and their nutritional and health benefits
Authors: Kang Puneet , Karumanthra Krishnanand Anagha , Kaur Sawinder , Rasane Prasad , Singh Jyoti , Nanda Vikas , Assouguem Amine , Lahlali Rachid , Ullah Riaz , Alqahtani Ali S.
Published: September 2024

In recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of minor millets, also called ancient grains. As a result, there has been a growing interest in the potential health benefits and unique dietary properties that these foods offer. Once considered a forgotten crop, millet has gained popularity as part of efforts to achieve sustainable development goals. With a growing population, there is a need to explore sustainable methods to provide food and nutritional security to people, and millets offer a promising solution to this objective. This literature review aims to provide a thorough and all-encompassing overview of the geographical distribution of minor millets, as well as the challenges and opportunities associated with their production. Additionally, this review will investigate the nutritional benefits of minor millets and their potential for use in the development of value-added products.