bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary Analysis of the Effectiveness of Handing Criminal Acts by Children Under the Age
Authors: Daniguelo Antonio
Published: August 2021

The issue of drug addiction and illegal trafficking continues to plague nations across the globe. Between 153 and 300 million individuals, or 3.4 to 6.6 percent of the world's drug abusers aged 15 to 64 years, having used drugs at least once a year, with almost 12% (15.5 to 38.6 million people) of users being heavy addicts. Initially created for medicinal reasons (therapy), opioids became a political target for those seeking profit by introducing harmful addictive chemicals. Addition of hazardous addictive drugs may precipitate a person's hallucinations and addictions, wreaking havoc on the neurological system and organs of the body and ultimately resulting in death. The risks of drug addiction have prompted many nations to implement laws aimed at protecting citizens and prohibiting drug trafficking. This restriction eventually spawned illegal commerce and the growth of global marketplaces
Public Relations Strategy Analysis Crisis Communications
Authors: Zimal Liyana Ansharah , Aysar Attaf Awamiri
Published: August 2021

Crisis communication is the exchange of information between an organization and its constituents during and after the occurrence of a crisis. This research employs a descriptive technique and a qualitative method. Techniques for data gathering include observation, interviewing, and documenting. The aim of this research is to conduct an empirical examination of the execution of strategies and supporting and inhibiting variables in crisis communication in public relations. The findings of this research suggest that a crisis communication plan should be suitable and swift in order to overcome public reaction and avoid a protracted crisis communication. Communication in Times of Crisis Pre-Crisis management is carried out by Public Relations, namely in the preparation (Planning) stage, which includes the establishment of a Public Relations team responsible for providing information, a clean-up and executive summery formation team, and Crisis-Response, namely the manufacturing stage. Press releases, clarifications, establishing stakeholder and media relations, and finally, Post-Crisis, namely the advancement of Public Relations not only to improve the company's image but also to improve performance, press conferences, and dissemination of publications are also implemented to improve things in the short and long term through programs
Chemical composition and lipoxygenase inhibitory activity of Alseodaphne peduncularis Meisn. essential oil
Authors: SALLEH Wan Mohd Nuzul Hakimi Wan , NAFİAH Mohd Azlan , KHAMİS Shamsul , ABED Salam Ahmed
Published: August 2021

This study examined the chemical composition of the essential oil extracted from the bark of Alseodaphne peduncularis Meisn. (Lauraceae) by hydrodistillation with 0.2% yield. The essential oil was chemically characterised by gas chromatography-flame ionization detector and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and 31 constituents comprising 94.3% of the total oil content were identified. These constituents included β-caryophyllene (24.5%), viridiflorol (12.3%), δ-cadinene (9.8%), and bicyclogermacrene (4.2%), respectively. The tested essential oil showed moderate in vitro lipoxygenase activity with an IC50 = 60.2 μg/mL. To the best of our knowledge, there is no report and study on the bark part of this species.
Zerumbone induces growth inhibition of Burkitt’s lymphoma cell line via apoptosis
Authors: ABBAS ALBAAYİT Shaymaa Fadhel , KHAN Mariam , ABDULLAH Rasedee
Published: August 2021

Zerumbone (ZER), a natural compound has been extracted from Zingiber zerumbet with known pharmacological activities. The aim was to determine the anti-human Burkitt’s lymphoma (Raji) cell effect of ZER. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5,-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to determine cytotoxic effect while the Annexin-V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide-PI flow cytometric assays was used to determine apoptotic effect of ZER on the human Burkitt’s lymphoma (Raji) cell (ATCC CCL-86) cell line. The expressions of Bax, Bcl-2, and c-Myc genes were determined via real-time PCR. ZER suppressed the proliferation of Raji cells with a 48 h IC50 value of 5.1 μg/mL. Treated Raji cells also underwent late apoptosis especially after treatment with 100 μg/mL ZER. The apoptotic effect of ZER is associated with increase in Bax and decrease in Bcl-2 and c-Myc gene expressions. These results suggest that ZER inhibited the proliferation of Raji cells through the modification of apoptosis-related gene expressions. Therefore, ZER has potential as a candidate for the treatment of Burkitt’s lymphoma.
Spinal anaesthesia experience in a patient with progressive supranuclear palsy using MAO-B inhibitor
Authors: TOY Erol , KART Kenan , TAŞKIN Duygu
Published: August 2021

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a rare clinical syndrome characterized by postural instability and mild dementia. The classical clinical picture of PSP includes severe gait and balance disorder, general bradykinesia, frontal dementia, visual disorders, dysarthria and dysphagia. Aspiration pneumonia is the leading cause of death in advanced PSP. We aimed to present our experiences in a 72-year-old patient with PSP using MAO-B inhibitor as an update for anaesthesiologists. We recommend that it should be taken into consideration that patients with PSP have a high risk of aspiration due to dysphagia and use of various medical treatments with high drug interaction and regional anaesthesia should be preferred. At the same time, we recommend the careful use of opioids during general or regional anaesthesia if the drug cannot be discontinued in patients using MAO-B inhibitor.
Clinical Characteristics of Patients who Died Within a Year in a Tertiary Intensive Care Unit
Authors: MİNİKSAR Ökkeş Hakan , TOY Erol
Published: August 2021

Aim: The aim of this study was to find out the clinical characteristics of patients who died within a year in the intensive care unit (ICU) and to find out the association of ICU admission albumin, lactate levels and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores of these patients who died with ICU length of stay.Material and Method: The files of patients who died in the ICU (n:350) between January 2018 and December 2018 were examined retrospectively. The patients’ demographic data and their clinical characteristics, ICU admission types (surgery or medical medicine), the units they were admitted in, reasons for admission, comorbidities, admission albumin and lactate levels, APACHE II scores and ICU length of stay were recorded. The association of patients’ clinical characteristics with ICU length of stay and laboratory values was evaluated. Result: The patients’ mean age was 72.68±12.98 years, mean APACHE II score was 27.0±10.0, mean albumin value was 3.1±0.7 g/dL and mean lactate value was 4.1±3.3 mmol/L. It was found that albumin value was lower in patients admitted to ICU with mechanical ventilator (MV) need (p<0.001), and lactate value and APACHE II score were significantly higher in patients with post-cardiopulmonary resuscitation (p<0.001). Mean ICU length of stay was 28.24 ± 37.53 days. A weak positive correlation (r =0.172, p=0.001) was found between the patients’ length of stay and albumin, and a weak negative correlation was found with the lactat (r = 0.121, p=0.023) and APACHE II scores (r = 0.151, p=0.001). A weak negative correlation was found between the patients’ albumin and lactate (r =0.152, p=0.004), and APACHE II score (r =0.179, p=0.001), as well as a moderate positive correlation between lactate and APACHE II score.Conclusion: Significant association was found between hypoalbuminemia, hyperlactatemia and high APACHE II scores and ICU length of stay in patients who died in ICU. More comprehensive studies are needed to show the effects of this association on effective use of ICUs.
Long-Term 32-Hours Continuous Shifts Increases Progesterone, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, Eosinophil Count and Attention Performance in Female Pediatric Resident
Authors: ÇAKAN Pınar , YILDIZ Sedat
Published: August 2021

Aim: The study aimed at assessing effects of long-term 32-hours continuous shifts on leptin, melatonin, sex hormones, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, hematological parameters, sleep quality and attention performance in female pediatric residents (FPR). Materials and Methods: FPR working under 32 hours continuous shifts (08:00-08:00h after 08:00-17:00h, n=10) were compared to female health professionals working in day-time hours (08:00-16:00h, n=10). Vital parameters, glucose, leptin, melatonin, estrogen, progesterone, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 concentrations, complete blood count (CBC) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were measured. The participants were also requested to fill in sleep quality questionnaires and visual attention test. Results: In the study; eosinophil ratio (p=0.015), hemoglobin (p=0.010), hematocrit (p=0.012), progesterone (p=0.008), TNF-α, (p=0.000), IL-1beta and (p= 0.003) IL-6 levels (p= 0.000) were found significantly higher in FPR. In addition, it was found that FPR had difficulty in waking up in the mornings (p = 0.000), had bad dreams (p = 0.040), and had poor sleep quality (p = 0.010). FPR had better attention performance (p=0.000). Conclusion: Although attention performance was higher in FPR, data suggest that long-term continuous 32-hour shift system activates inflammatory response, disturbs ovarian steroid production and reduces sleep quality. Alltogether, these may culminate in inflammatory diseases or reproductive problems.
Hazards of Chronic Exposure to Nonylphenol: Concomitant Effect on Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Male Albino Rats
Authors: Elsyade Rania , El Sawaf Eman , Gaber Dalia
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND: Chronic exposure to environmental endocrine disruptors like nonylphenol (NP), has been shown in previous studies to predispose to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

METHODS: In this work, forty adult male albino rats were divided into four groups, a high sucrose-high-fat diet (HSHFD) group, a group receiving 20 μg/kg/day of NP, an NP + HSHFD group, and a control group. The rats were sacrificed on day 60 after anesthetization.

RESULTS: Biochemical tests indicated that serum transaminases (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase) were significantly increased in the NP + HSHFD group. Lipid metabolism was most disrupted in the NP + HSHFD with a highly significant increase (p < 0.001) of serum cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol compared to other groups. Heme oxygenase 1 showed the highest expression in the NP + HSHFD group, with a highly significant difference in comparison with the other groups (p < 0.001). Histopathological studies revealed fatty changes and dilatation in the central vein in the HSHFD group. Lymphoid cell aggregates were detected in the NP group. Massive inflammation and degeneration were revealed in the NP + HSHFD group. There was also marked expression of the apoptotic protein caspase-3 in the NP + HSHFD group.

CONCLUSION: In conclusion, exposure to a 20 μg/kg/day of NP induced oxidative stress leading to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
Results of Using the Robson Classification in Kazakhstan
Authors: Altayeva Assel Askarovna , Issenova Saule Shaykenovna , Machtejeviene Egle , Bodykov Gani Zhandiyarovich , Bishekova Balzira Nagashibaevna
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND: Over the past few decades, the cesarean section frequency has increased significantly in many countries around the world, especially in the countries with high and medium income. The World Health Organization recommends 10–15% as the optimum cesarean section frequency. In Kazakhstan, the frequency of operative delivery in 2018 was 23.5%.

AIM: The article is aimed at analyzing the caesarean section frequency following the Robson classification in Kazakhstan at Level II and III obstetric institutions, identifying the groups that make the greatest contribution to the overall cesarean section frequency, studying the clinical reasons in these groups, and identifying the ways to reduce unneeded cesarean sections.

METHODS: A prospective study was performed at the Level II and III obstetric facilities in Almaty. On admission for delivery, all women were assigned following the Robson classification. The indices of cesarean section in each of 10 groups and the absolute and relative contribution to the overall cesarean section frequency were calculated. The patient data were prospectively entered into a computer application and processed in MS Excel and Statistica version 23. The results were presented using the Robson classification. The odds ratios were calculated with a confidence interval of 95%.

RESULTS: For the period from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2019, 12,395 women parturiated at Level II and III obstetric facilities. The main contributors to the overall cesarean section frequency at Level II and III obstetric facilities were Group 5 (multiparous women with uterine scars) – 46.3% (Level II facility) and 37.5% (Level III facility), Group 2 (12.4%) and (12.4%), Group 1 (12%) and (9.6%), and Group 10 (11.4%) at the Level III facility.

CONCLUSION: The Robson classification has been used for the 1st time in Kazakhstan which has made it possible to identify the reasons that make the greatest contribution to the overall cesarean section frequency. The use of monitoring for analyzing the cesarean section frequency will make it possible to compare the Kazakhstan data with the foreign data and determine the organizational measures aimed at reducing the frequency of operative delivery. The strategies to reduce unneeded cesarean section should focus on reducing the cesarean section frequency in nulliparous women. In the absence of contraindications, natural delivery should be advised to the women with uterine scars.
Compatibility aspects of the method of phase synchronization for decoupling linear second-order differential equations
Authors: Sarlet Willy , Mestdag Tom
Published: August 2021

The so-called method of phase synchronization has been advocated in a number of papers as a way of decoupling a system of linear second-order differential equations by a linear transformation of coordinates and velocities. This is a rather unusual approach because velocity-dependent transformations in general do not preserve the second-order character of differential equations. Moreover, at least in the case of linear transformations, such a velocity-dependent one defines by itself a second-order system, which need not have anything to do, in principle, with the given system or its reformulation. This aspect, and the related questions of compatibility it raises, seem to have been overlooked in the existing literature. The purpose of this paper is to clarify this issue and to suggest topics for further research in conjunction with the general theory of decoupling in a differential geometric context.
Local convexity for second order differential equations on a Lie algebroid
Authors: Marrero Juan Carlos , de Diego David Martín , Martínez Eduardo
Published: August 2021

A theory of local convexity for a second order differential equation (${\text{sode}}$) on a Lie algebroid is developed. The particular case when the ${\text{sode}}$ is homogeneous quadratic is extensively discussed.
The Digital Educational Environment: The Problem of Its Accessibility for Visually Impaired Students
Authors: Bilyalova Albina , Bazarova Liliya , Salimova Daniya , Patenko Gulchachak
Published: August 2021

The changes taking place in recent decades in the humanitarian sphere of the life of Russian society are manifested in the increased attention to problems of social integration of people with disabilities. The social state policy concerning such people is increasingly focused on creating equal opportunities so as to participate in the life of society and get involved in socially useful activities. One of the most important aspects of equal opportunities for the visually impaired is ensuring the access to information and opportunity to participate in public information exchange. The process of society informatization makes the solution of these problems even more urgent. In this regard, the wide distribution of digital electronic resources is of particular importance, taking into account the requirements for the visually impaired and computer technology. In the given research there substantiated possibilities of using digital educational resources, computer typhlotechnologies when interacting with the information public. Such results can be implemented in the organization of both academic and corporate education. The developed approaches can be used by various groups of developers to create their own digital educational environment
Intelligent Botnet Detection Approach in Modern Applications
Authors: M. Ali Alheeti Khattab , Alsukayti Ibrahim , Alreshoodi Mohammed
Published: August 2021

Innovative applications are employed to enhance human-style life. The Internet of Things (IoT) is recently utilized in designing these environments. Therefore, security and privacy are considered essential parts to deploy and successful intelligent environments. In addition, most of the protection systems of IoT are vulnerable to various types of attacks. Hence, intrusion detection systems (IDS) have become crucial requirements for any modern design. In this paper, a new detection system is proposed to secure sensitive information of IoT devices. However, it is heavily based on deep learning networks. The protection system can provide a secure environment for IoT. To prove the efficiency of the proposed approach, the system was tested by using two datasets; normal and fuzzification datasets. The accuracy rate in the case of the normal testing dataset was 99.30%, while was 99.42% for the fuzzification testing dataset. The experimental results of the proposed system reflect its robustness, reliability, and efficiency.
Assessment of Reintroduction of American Eel into Buffalo Creek (Susquehanna River, Pennsylvania)
Authors: Newhard Joshua J. , Devers Julie , Minkkinen Steve , Mangold Mike
Published: August 2021

American Eel Anguilla rostrata populations along the Atlantic coast of the United States have been in decline over the past several decades. One suggested cause of the decline is construction of barriers that block access to upstream tributaries where they can spend a significant portion of their lives. Success of reintroduction efforts above barriers has rarely been evaluated. Within the Susquehanna River (Chesapeake Bay watershed), over 1 million eels were released above four major downstream barriers in the past decade. We used backpack electrofishing and tagging to monitor growth, sexual differentiation, and population density of reintroduced eels in Buffalo Creek, a tributary to the Susquehanna River (Pennsylvania). From 2012 to 2019, we caught over 2,000 individuals, tagged more than 1,800, and recaptured 229. Recaptured eels provided insight into growth, sexual differentiation, and movement. Nearly 99% of recaptures remained near stocking locations. The average growth rate was 47.8 mm/y and ranged between −5.8 and 116.0 mm/y. Females generally grew significantly faster than males, and growth rates of several females exceeded 100 mm/y, a rate typically associated with estuarine residents. The population density within stocking sites was over 2,300 eels/km, roughly four times higher than Susquehanna River tributaries below the most downstream dam, and exceeded the target stocking goal of 529 eels/km. While we caught most eels in areas sampled near stocking locations, we captured some eels in smaller upstream tributaries away from stocking locations. Our study is the first to examine how reintroduced eels grow following stocking above four major dams on the Susquehanna River. We suggest that managers considering moving eels above blockages account for release location and density to achieve desired benefits to the overall population.
Inferring Movements and Staging Locations for Canvasbacks Using Light-Level Geolocators
Authors: Cook Nathan A. , Nicolai Christopher A. , Shoemaker Kevin T.
Published: August 2021

Understanding the geographic extent and timing of wildlife movements enables resource managers to inform habitat needs of target species efficiently and effectively. We use light-level geolocators—which enable researchers to estimate individual locations from light-level data—to build a more complete understanding of the geography and timing of migratory movements for canvasback Aythya valisineria in the Pacific Flyway. During the springs of 2015–2017, we placed 151 geolocators on canvasbacks using two alternative attachment methods (leg-band vs. nasal-saddle mounts) during spring migration (February–March) near Reno, Nevada. Eight of these geolocators (five males and three females) were successfully retrieved, representing 10 near-complete annual migration cycles (two geolocators contained data for two migration years). Eight of the 10 estimated spring canvasback migrations (five male and three female) ended at breeding sites in the Prairie Pothole Region of southern Canada and northern United States (often via stopover sites in Utah and Montana), whereas one male and one female migrated to breeding sites in Alaska. Notably, one female settled on nesting grounds in southern Saskatchewan and then in central Alaska in successive years. During spring migration, canvasbacks made an average of 3.3 ± 0.5 stopovers, with an average duration of 14.8 ± 2.2 d. Three canvasbacks made a distinct molt migration after breeding. For fall migration, canvasback made an average of 2.7 ± 0.3 stopovers, lasting an average of 12.3 ± 2.5 d, on their way to wintering sites in California's Central Valley and coastal regions near San Francisco Bay. Retrieval rate for nasal-saddle-mounted geolocators was significantly lower than leg band-mounted devices because of failure of nasal-saddle attachment. This study demonstrates the value of geolocators for assessing year-round habitat use for waterfowl species that have negative behavioral reactions to traditional backpack devices. This information complements standard band-recovery approaches and enables waterfowl managers to ensure that the spatial and temporal distributions of individuals are identified so that habitat conservation efforts can reflect the full annual habitat use cycle.
Integrating Computational Thinking and Mathematics
Authors: Bertrand Marja , Namukasa Immaculate Kizito
Published: August 2021

Globally, computational thinking and coding in schools has become more popular as well as a growing area of interest in education reform. Coupling coding with creative thinking promises to meaningfully engage students in their learning and to improve their coding and computational thinking skills. This prompts discussions about STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), which promotes creativity and innovation through the integration of the arts in STEM subjects. This study addresses the following question: What mathematics and computational thinking do students learn through different models of STEAM education in non-profit and in-school contexts? A small sample was taken of four different STEAM programs in Ontario, Canada. We carried out a qualitative case study with 103 participants, 19 adults and 84 students. The findings from this study have implications for designing, implementing and researching K-8 STEAM programs that promote coding and computational thinking skills in the context of learning mathematics.
Introducing Computational Thinking Unplugged in Early Childhood Education Within the Context of Physical and Natural Science Courses
Authors: Kalogiannakis Michail , Kanaki Kalliopi
Published: August 2021

In the contemporary digital era, introducing computational thinking concepts is considered an imperative need at all stages of schooling, since they are inextricably linked to skills applicable and beneficial in everyday life. This chapter presents a novel educational framework that aims to foster the growth of computational thinking at early childhood stages, within the context of physical and natural science courses, pursuing the unplugged philosophy and following the principles of game-based, project-based and collaborative learning. This chapter also presents a relevant pilot study, conducted with second grade students of a Greek primary school, with the objective of assessing the feasibility of the proposed educational framework, as well as examining its effectiveness. The results stemming from the pilot are promising and reveal that the proposed approach serves our goal to enhance computational thinking at the first stages of schooling through engaging and fun educational activities that appeal to young students.
Personalized Education for a Programming Course in Higher Education
Authors: Rojas-López Arturo , García-Peñalvo Francisco José
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this chapter is to present the intervention in personalized education for the Programming Methodology course in higher education. Indicators such as dropout rate, failing rate, and poor academic performance of the students of Universidad Tecnológica de Puebla (UTP) are necessary to propose strategies that improve education quality. Therefore, during the four-month periods of September – December in 2016 and 2017, the authors performed interventions with the strategy of personalized education with the objective to improve the indicators mentioned above. The four strategy elements are 1) content, 2) work methods, 3) pace and times, and 4) assessments options. The study that is presented in this chapter is original because it avoids a unique starting point for all students. The study attempts to go over what the students have in common; this is why the authors were able to stimulate each student to be in charge of their own knowledge freely and responsibly.
Assessing K-9 Teachers' Computational Thinking Skills
Authors: Zhang LeChen , Nouri Jalal
Published: August 2021

Many national curricula have incorporated computational thinking (CT) into compulsory education. Teacher ability to deliver the revised curriculum determines whether these new skills can be successfully integrated into teaching. Therefore, it is crucial to examine teacher readiness. This study measured Swedish K-9 teacher CT skills through a CT test validated by an expert review panel and a principal component analysis. Additionally, we engaged statistical analyses to examine the relationship between the teachers' background and their CT test scores, as well as their self-reported ability to teach CT. The result demonstrated the teachers' proficiency in different types of CT skills. Another finding revealed that the type of programming language mastered by teachers was associated with both their CT test score and self-reported ability to teach CT. This CT test can support teachers to identify specific areas for professional development and may facilitate the school management to plan teachers' competence training strategically.
Assessing Algorithmic Thinking Skills in Early Childhood Education
Authors: Kanaki Kalliopi , Kalogiannakis Michail , Stamovlasis Dimitrios
Published: August 2021

This chapter presents part of a wider project aimed at developing computational thinking assessment instruments for first and second grade primary school students. The applicability of the specific proposed tool, which concerns merely the algorithmic thinking (AT), was tested within the Environmental Study course (ESc). The main pillar of the work is the computational environment PhysGramming. The assessment of AT was based on mental tasks involving puzzles which require AT abilities. The AT test comprised of four puzzles with 4, 6, 9, and 12 pieces respectively, and the puzzle-solving performance was measured at the nominal level (success/failure). Latent class analysis (LCA), a robust multivariate method for categorical data, was implemented, which distinguished two clusters/latent classes corresponding to two distinct levels of AT. Moreover, LCA with covariates, such as gender, grade, achievement in ESc, and the use of plan revealed the association of the above variables with the AT skill-levels. Finally, the results and their implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Using Dr. Scratch as a Formative Feedback Tool to Assess Computational Thinking
Authors: Rich Peter , Browning Samuel Frank
Published: August 2021

This study investigated if using Dr. Scratch as a formative feedback tool would accelerate students' Computational Thinking (CT). Forty-one 4th-6th grade students participated in a 1-hour/week Scratch workshop for nine weeks. We measured pre- and posttest results of the computational thinking test (CTt) between control (n = 18) and treatment groups (n = 23) using three methods: propensity score matching (treatment = .575; control = .607; p = .696), information maximum likelihood technique (treatment effect = -.09; p = .006), and multiple linear regression. Both groups demonstrated significantly increased posttest scores over their pretest (treatment = +8.31%; control = +5.43%), showing that learning to code can increase computational thinking over a 2-month period. In this chapter, we discuss the implications of using Dr. Scratch as a formative feedback tool the possibilities of further research on the use of automatic feedback tools in teaching elementary computational thinking.
Theories and Practices Behind Educational Robotics for All
Authors: Eguchi Amy
Published: August 2021

The chapter aims at helping educators and classroom teachers who are new to using educational robotics as a learning tool in their classrooms. It discusses the approaches using robotics as a learning tool - a tool perfectly suited for enabling constructionist learning in the classroom and how educational robotics can provide ‘all' students motivation to learn STEM and computing science concepts. Educational robotics as a learning tool requires teachers as well as students to shift from traditional pedagogical approaches to learner-centered active learning approaches. The chapter discusses how the shift can be made in successful ways and provides guidance to pre- and in-service teachers on how to implement educational robotics as a learning tool to reach and attract ‘all' students to promote their learning.
Robotics as a Powerful Vehicle Toward Learning and Computational Thinking in Secondary Education of 21st Century
Authors: Glezou Katerina V.
Published: August 2021

This chapter focuses on the design and implementation of robotics activities in authentic classroom conditions in secondary education. It suggests that robotics can provide a powerful educational vehicle for guiding high school students toward learning in 21st century. It presents a constructionist approach to foster computational thinking and creativity by engaging in robotics and programming activities in real-world classroom. More specifically, this chapter presents teaching interventions that have been implemented in real conditions to high school students during robotics courses at Arsakeia Schools Psychikou in Athens, Greece. It describes robotics activities employing the Edison educational robotics system. Main features of teaching interventions concerning the utilization of Edison robot, digital learning environments, and unplugged activities in the classroom focused on 21st century skills, computational thinking, and creativity development as well as findings, solutions, recommendations, and future research directions are discussed.
Introduction to Computational Thinking With MI-GO
Authors: Loureiro Maria José , Moreira Filipe T. Tavares , Senos Susana
Published: August 2021

The present study is part of a research about computational thinking and tangible robotics. A robot in development in Portugal, MI-GO robot, is part of the basis of this research. The objective is to determine the attitude of young students concerning tangible robots and to observe in what measure they contribute to the development of their STEM skills. On the other hand, it also aims to know what are the opinions of educators, teachers, and researchers concerning MI-GO's characteristics and what is their value, adequacy and suitability for the educational grades of young learners (from 5 to 10). The study consists on a qualitative approach based in a case study methodology, using the techniques of questionnaire and observation. At first the data reveal a clear adhesion to the robot and tangible programming by learners, and the researchers that analyzed the device consider it was a very adequate one and presented several suggestions to improve it.
Evalutation of Turbo Decoder Performance Through Software Reference Model
Authors: N. Manjunatha K. , N. Raghu , B. Kiran
Published: August 2021

Turbo encoder and decoder are two important blocks of long-term evolution (LTE) systems, as they address the data encoding and decoding in a communication system. In recent years, the wireless communication has advanced to suit the user needs. The power optimization can be achieved by proposing early termination of decoding iteration where the number of iterations is made adjustable which stops the decoding as it finishes the process. Clock gating technique is used at the RTL level to avoid the unnecessary clock given to sequential circuits; here clock supplies are a major source of power dissipation. The performance of a system is affected due to the numbers of parameters, including channel noise, type of decoding and encoding techniques, type of interleaver, number of iterations, and frame length on the Matlab Simulink platform. A software reference model for turbo encoder and decoder are modeled using MATLAB Simulink. Performance of the proposed model is estimated and analyzed on various parameters like frame length, number of iterations, and channel noise.
Extension of Aspiration Level Model for Optimal Planning of Fast Charging Stations
Authors: Suri Manikanta Surya Narayana , Kaliyaperumal Deepa
Published: August 2021

Electric vehicles will play a dominant role in future transportation due to their friendliness towards the present day environment. The battery which drives the vehicle can be refilled using battery charging and battery swapping techniques. Fast charging stations provide faster service to the customers. Though battery swapping method outperforms battery charging in many ways, the heavy infrastructure requirement of the former requires time in integrating with the real world. Queuing models are used to depict the real-time behavior of service stations. The aspiration level model provides the optimal value of charging piles for the given system capacity in a fast-charging station. The parameters in the aspiration level model can be formulated to an optimization problem. In the present work, the optimal planning for an fast charging station in Beijing is carried out using genetic algorithm. The simulation work is carried out in MATLAB/Simulink.
Multilevel Inverter for Hybrid Fuel Cell/PV Energy Conversion System
Authors: Fekik Arezki , Hamida Mohamed Lamine , Denoun Hakim , Azar Ahmad Taher , Kamal Nashwa Ahmad , Vaidyanathan Sundarapandian , Bousbaine Amar , Benamrouche Nacereddine
Published: August 2021

Power converters assume a significant part in fuel cell power generation systems and solar power conversion systems which are an alternative to fossil fuel production systems. There is therefore a demand for high quality power conditioning used in PEMFC systems and photovoltaic panels. This chapter proposes a hybrid electric power (FC/PV) production strategy with the use of converter topology as the power interface and also introduces a three-level inverter topology for different operating levels. The converter increases the input voltage to the rated voltage and turns into a DC bus; the multi-level inverter converts the voltage to AC and supplies AC loads. This chapter develops a hybrid electric power generation strategy, which can produce output with positive and zero sequences. Integrating the three-stage inverter into the hybrid renewable energy (FC/PV) production system allows for near sinusoidal current with low THD. The topology of hybrid energy production using the multi-level converter is tested on Matlab.
Adverse Childhood Experiences
Authors: Johnson Alicia D.
Published: August 2021

Childhood trauma is as American as apple pie. The statistics are sobering. In 2018, more than 673,000 children were victims of abuse or neglect. This chapter will explore adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in detail, relating how these past experiences could affect current student behavior. A case study will be used to illustrate the issues that teachers face in their classrooms. Research shows that trauma affects the brain and subsequently how people act and/or react. Emotional regulation, behavioral control, and cognitive processes that are affected by trauma will be explored. Further, this chapter will raise the issues of racial disproportionality in identification and labeling of behavioral disorders and recommendations for special education among students who may have been exposed to trauma. Lastly, recommendations for best practice will be outlined to support educators in the field.
Restorative Justice
Authors: Mick Alyssa Lee
Published: August 2021

For decades, public schools in the United States have employed retributive discipline systems that rely heavily on exclusion as a primary means to mete punishment. More recently, some schools have begun employing restorative practices which encourage relationship-building, healing, learning, and collaboration before, during, and after discipline events. Used proactively as a means to build a culture of caring and support, restorative circles foster communication and relationship-building among school stakeholders, but restorative conferences and circles may also be used in lieu of exclusion as alternatives to traditional discipline models. Advocates of restorative justice assert that recidivism is reduced through purposeful community-building processes espoused by RJ principles.
Comparing Machine Learning Models for the Predictions of Speed in Smart Transportation Systems
Authors: Waheed Amtul , Shafi Jana , V. Saritha
Published: August 2021

In today's world of advanced technologies in IoT and ITS in smart cities scenarios, there are many different projections such as improved data propagation in smart roads and cooperative transportation networks, autonomous and continuously connected vehicles, and low latency applications in high capacity environments and heterogeneous connectivity and speed. This chapter presents the performance of the speed of vehicles on roadways employing machine learning methods. Input variable for each learning algorithm is the density that is measured as vehicle per mile and volume that is measured as vehicle per hour. And the result shows that the output variable is the speed that is measured as miles per hour represent the performance of each algorithm. The performance of machine learning algorithms is calculated by comparing the result of predictions made by different machine learning algorithms with true speed using the histogram. A result recommends that speed is varying according to the histogram.
Importance and Usability of University Websites
Authors: Caglar Ersin
Published: August 2021

An organization's website is a gateway to its information, products, and services. As such, it should be a reflection of the needs of the clients that it serves. Unfortunately, website design and development is often driven by technology or organizational structure or business objectives, rather than user needs. Since higher educational institutions have started to use their websites as a means of recruiting students, an effective website design emerged as a critical factor in attracting students. The usability factor is an extremely important aspect in an individual website as it ensures the survival of each institution in digital environment. In addition to the importance of website usability, the COVID-19 virus significantly increased the importance of websites, especially university websites. Website users and designers accept usability as major criteria in developing websites. If any institution website has poor usability, it is difficult to use, and visitors may turn to other institutions' websites.
A Systematic Review of Web Accessibility Metrics
Authors: Onay Durdu Pınar , Soydemir Ömer Naci
Published: August 2021

Currently, providing accessible websites for all users is an essential requirement. There are various qualitative and quantitative evaluation methods to assure accessibility. Among these, the quantitative methods show the level of accessibility of the website using web accessibility metrics (WAM), which provide a way to understand, control, and improve these websites. This study was aimed to identify current trends and analyze WAMs through a systematic literature review. Therefore, 30 WAM studies that were published since 2008 were determined and investigated according to attributes defined for the metrics such as guideline set used by the metric, coupling level with the guidelines, type of evaluation, site complexity, and validation with the user. Fourteen recently proposed WAMs were determined since 2008. Recently proposed WAMs have begun to consider more elaborate issues such as rich internet applications, website complexity, usability, or user experience issues and implement some machine learning approaches for the metrics.
Education 3.0
Authors: Borden Jeff D.
Published: August 2021

Education 3.0 is the confluence of known, effective throughputs in teaching and learning due to changed inputs and desired changes to output across higher education. From increasingly diverse student populations to the need for critical thinking by all, education has fundamentally changed. Practitioners must leverage technologies to scale learning and meet demands by families for more flexible, lifelong learning options. Gone are the days when student bodies had more on-campus, residential, homogeneity, as well as small cohorts from selective admissions. Such changes now require architects of learning to consider the efficacy of various teaching and assessment methods in promoting actual learning versus short-term memorization, as well as how to use technology to do all of this at scale. From neuroscience to learning psychology to education technology, there is an impressive body of research around authentic learning, yet most faculty are largely unaware of this scholarship, seeing instruction dominated by tradition rather than effectiveness.
Designing a Pathway to Digital Fluency
Authors: Shiring Becky
Published: August 2021

This chapter addresses the need for developing digital fluency skills in higher-education students in order to best prepare them for real-world success. The pathway to digital fluency is complex and requires a reimagined, collaborative approach to learning design. This chapter considers the elements of authentic learning as a means of developing students' digital fluency and proposes learning design as a pathway to action for teacher-developed authentic learning activities. The chapter begins by exploring the concept of digital fluency in order to develop a definition that informs pedagogical approach. Approaches to digital fluency development are examined through digital literacy and authentic learning frameworks. The pedagogical approach is further examined and conceptualized through the process of learning design. Considerations are presented at the end of each section to illustrate relationships between digital fluency, authentic learning, and learning design, and to allow for further exploration of concepts within unique contexts.
COVID-19
Authors: El Baz Soraia , El Hidan My Abdelmonaim , Zouhairi Nadia , Aimrane Abdelmohcine , Chatoui Redouane , Echchakery Mohamed
Published: August 2021

Since December 2019, a pneumonia outbreak with unknown etiology occurred in Wuhan, China. Later, the pathogen was identified as novel human coronavirus and named as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The disease was named corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and caused a pandemic. As of 23 June 2020, the global COVID-19 pandemic has battered the world. More than 1.5 million people have died with over 80 million people confirmed infected. This outbreak is spreading in approximately 216 countries and regions as of 22 July 2020. Comparing the three human coronavirus, SARS and MERS have significantly higher case fatality rates than COVID-19, but COVID-19 is more infectious and spreads more easily among people. Therefore, in this chapter, the authors summarize the most fatal pandemic in recorded history. Also, they collected all information about the current knowledge about COVID-19 pandemic including similarity and differences with other human coronaviruses.
COVID-19
Authors: Draoui Ahmed , Chatoui Hicham , El Baz Soraia , Rais Hanane , El-Mansoury Bilal , EL Hidan My Abdelmonaim , Aimrane Abdelmohcine , Zouhairi Nadia , Echchakery Mohamed , El Khiat Abdelaati , Tamegart Lahcen , El Fari Radouane , Benammi Hind , Lafhal Karima , Hammoud Miloud , Gamrani Halima
Published: August 2021

SARS-CoV-2 infection is characterized by its high contagiousness and unusual potential lethality. Microscopically, diffuse alveolar damage is the main histologic lung injury dominated by alveolar destruction. At the early stage, the authors note non-specific lesions similar to lesions of diffuse alveolar damage. In particular, the alveoli dilated and filled with exudative fibromyxoid material, the thickening of the interalveolar partitions by edema and an essentially mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate with eosinophilic hyaline membranes covering the alveoli. Viral inclusions are not generally found, and at an advanced stage, the installation of pulmonary fibrosis is noted. The place of non-invasive and/or invasive ventilation is undetermined in hypoxemic respiratory failure secondary to SARS-Cov-2 pneumonia, whereas in the most severe cases of COVID-19, the use of oxygenation by extracorporeal membrane is immediate. The cytokine storm in the lungs prompted clinicians to administer immunomodulators, the results of which was a reduction in hospital mortality.
COVID-19 Beyond the Lungs
Authors: El Hiba Omar , Chatoui Hicham , Zouhairi Nadia , Bahi Lahoucine , Ammouta Lhoussaine , Balzano Tiziano , El Hidan Moulay Abdelmonaim , Isbaine Faical , Jayakumar Arumugam R. , Norenberg Michael D. , Zaky Amira , Gamrani Halima
Published: August 2021

Since December 2019, the world has been shaken by the spread of a highly pathogen virus, causing severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-Cov2), which emerged in Wuhan, China. SARS-Cov2 is known to cause acute pneumonia: the cardinal feature of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Clinical features of the disease include respiratory distress, loss of spontaneous breathing, and sometimes neurologic signs such as headache and nausea and anosmia, leading to suppose a possible involvement of the nervous system as a potential target of SARS-CoV2. The chapter will shed light on the recent clinical and experimental data sustaining the involvement of the nervous system in the pathophysiology of COVID-19, based on several case reports and experimental data reporting the possible transmission of SARS-CoV2 throughout the peripheral nerves to the brain cardiorespiratory centers. Thus, understanding the role of the nervous system in the course of clinical symptoms of COVID-19 is important in determining the appropriate therapeutic approach to combat the disease.