bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ризома как принцип организации прецедентных феноменов и лингвокультурных концептов
Authors: Чалыкова Татьяна
Published: May 2016

В статье рассматриваются возможности описания семантических связей слов и их этимологии на примере фрагментов, формирующих семантическое поле прецедентного имени Каин и лингвокультурного концепта коварство через понятие ризома. Ризома представляет собой один из способов организации сложных систем, некий внеструктурный и нелинейный способ, оставляющий открытой возможность для реализации их внутреннего потенциала самоконфигурирования. Показано, что ризома служит моделью бессознательных ментальных процессов, характеризующихся отсутствием древовидной структуры, а также моделью семантических связей слов, их этимологии и изменений их семантики. Понятие ризомы можно применить к описанию несистемных различий, неспособных четко противопоставляться друг другу по наличию или отсутствию какого-либо признака. По аналогии с процессом взаимодействия абстрактно-логического и интуитивного мышления для лингвистических ризом характерны перетекания оппозициональных структур.
Природа невыразимого и феномен молчания в русском языке и русской культуре
Authors: Михайлова Марина
Published: May 2016

В статье исследовано сопряженное существование семантики невыразимого и феноме на молчания в разных исследовательских парадигмах: философской, теологической, литературоведческой, культурологической, а также апофатической риторики, когнитивной лингвистики и теории эвфемии. В работе назван магистральный приём образования единиц категории невыразимого и апофатической риторики – отрицание (словообразовательное, внутрилексемное, синтаксическое, риторическое, то есть со сдвигом плана содержания и плана выражения). Сказанное иллюстрируется примерами из словаря М. Фасмера и современных интернет-коммуникаций.
High pressure processing technology in dairy processing: A review
Authors: Dhineshkumar V. , Ramasamy D. , Siddharth M.
Published: May 2016

Consumers demand high quality foods, which are fresh, tasty and nutritious; this has created considerable interest in the development of new food processing techniques. Presently, non-thermal techniques, including high hydrostatic pressure (HHP), are regarded with special interest by the food industry. Pressure ranges between 100 and 1200 MPa have been considered as effective to inactivate microorganisms including food-borne pathogens. HHP also improves rennet or acid coagulation of milk without any detrimental effect on flavour, body and texture and nutrients. Extended shelf-life and a “fresh-like” product presentation emphasize the need to take full account of food safety risks, alongside possible health benefits to consumers. These characteristics offer the dairy industry numerous practical applications to produce microbially safe and minimally processed dairy products with improved characteristics. Thus HHP is a powerful tool to develop novel dairy products of better nutritional and sensory quality, novel texture and increased shelf-life.
Composition, nutritional and therapeutic values of goat milk: A review
Authors: Yadav Alok Kumar , Singh Jitendra , Yadav Shiv Kumar
Published: May 2016

Goat is one of the main contributors of milk and meat products. Goat milk is different from cow and human milk in composition, nutritional and therapeutic attributes. The compositional differences are of significance in indicating the technological suitability for goat milk processing and its products. The differences in composition of cow milk and goat milk may result into the products with different sensory characteristics, nutritional and therapeutic values. Goat milk contains higher amount of Ca, Mg and P than cow and human milk but vitamin D, vitamin B12 and folate contents are less. Goat milk is recommended for infants, old and convalescent people. Three fatty acids viz., caproic, caprylic and capric have great medicinal values for patients suffering from a variety of ailments. Further, it is worthwhile to compare the milk of goats with that of cows and note benefits or limitations which may result from differences found. Goat milk products other than cheese and pasteurized milk are considered to be the diary products with greatest marketing potential. Therefore, several characteristic of goat milk are currently the focus of increased research interest. Fermented goat milk incorporating live probiotic cells represent a group of products with great prospects in the future with regard to their nutritive and therapeutic properties.
Genetic parameters of egg quality traits in two strains of Japanese quails
Authors: Kumari B. Punya , Gupta B. Ramesh , Prakash M. Gnana
Published: May 2016

Present study was carried out to estimate the genetic and phenotypic parameters among external, internal egg quality traits and quality indices in Black and Brown Japanese quails. A total of 1218 eggs collected consecutively for three days at 16 weeks of age from 202 Black and 204 Brown Japanese quails were utilized in the present study to record the data on external and internal egg quality traits. The overall least squares means for EW, EL, EWD, SW, ST, AL, AWD, AH, AW, YD, YH, YW, YFC, SI, AI, YI and HUS were 13.63 g, 33.85 mm, 26.76 mm, 1.14 g, 0.21 mm, 42.63 mm, 33.45 mm, 5.04 mm, 7.95 g, 24.53 mm, 11.43 mm, 4.53 g, 5.66, 79.18, 0.13, 0.47 and 60.09, respectively. Majority of the heritability estimates for egg quality traits were within the range of moderate to high and suggested the existence of sizeable genetic variability for exploitation by appropriate selection procedure.
Livestock diseases in sub-Himalayan temperate region: A Garrett’s ranking analysis
Authors: Meena Hans Ram , Meena B. S. , Sankhala Gopal
Published: May 2016

Fifteen clusters of villages were identified and selected for the purpose of study. In general, these villages are located at 32.6°N (latitude); 76.3°E (longitude); 1,290.8 m (altitude). The area is characterized by mild summer and moderate to severe winter having the mean monthly minimum temperature varying from 5.0±0.9 °C in January to 20.4±1.2 °C in June. Garett’s ranking technique was followed to analyse the particular problem or disease perceived by the farmers as well as identify by the multidiscipline teams in livestock. In cattle, highest incidence of haematuria (16.74%) was recorded followed by repeat breeding (14.97%). Whereas in case of buffalo emaciation / weakness (17.24%), GI parasitic infections (16.09%), and tick/ lice infestation (16.09%) were the major problems. Parasitic infections (36.84%), diarrhoea/ dysentery (31.57%) and tick / lice infestation (14.03%) were recorded as major problem in goats. The major disease/ disorder observed in bullocks were haematuria (28.23%), urinary problem (24.70%) and parasitic infestation (16.47 %). In the horse/ ponies parasitic infestation (37.93%) followed by weakness (24.13%) and tick/ lice infestation (17.24%) and parasitic infections (31.81%) followed by mange (27.27%) were the major health problem in the pet’s animals. The study enlighted the animal health scenario in the region.
Seroprevalence of Babesia bigemina in dairy animals from low lying regions of Punjab, India
Authors: Kaur Paramjit , Juyal Prayag Dutt , Sharma Amrita , Bal Mandeep Singh , Singla Lachhman Das
Published: May 2016

Seroprevalence of Babesia bigemina was assessed in 360 dairy animals including 294 adults (129 cattle and 165 buffaloes) and 66 calves (28 cattle calves and 38 buffalo calves) from low lying areas of different agro climatic zones of Punjab using indirect ELISA. The overall seroprevalence was reported to be 30% among different agroclimatic zones under study, with highest in Undulating Plain Zone (39.6%) followed by Submountain Undulating Zone (37.2%) and lowest in Western Zone (10.5%). The districts wise seroprevalence was highest in district Roopnagar (48.4%) and lowest in Fazilka (5.8%). The seroprevalence among the four groups under study also differed significantly, being highest in adult cattle and lowest in buffalo calves. Between the two species, seroprevalence was significantly (P<0.01) higher in cattle (54.1 %, 85/157) as compared to buffaloes (11.3%, 23/203). The present study is the first concise report on the seroprevalence of B. bigemina based on indirect ELISA in dairy animals from low lying areas of Punjab, which revealed endemicity of babesiosis in low lying regions from different agroclimatic zones of Punjab state.
Study of productive traits in Sahiwal x Holstein Friesian crossbred cows – Frieswal
Authors: Singh Basdev , Sawant Pushkraj , Sawant Dhruvaraj , Dutt Gautam , Todkar Sachin
Published: May 2016

The present study was undertaken on data of 150 Frieswal cows (a new strain of Sahiwal x Holstein Friesian) maintained at Military Dairy Farm, Agra, over a period of 15 years from 1996-2010, based on age at first calving. The overall means for age at first calving (AFC), weight at first calving (WFC), first lactation milk yield (FLMY), first lactation period (FLP), first dry period (FDP) and first calving interval (FCI) were 928.07±0.08 days, 369.87±0.92 kg, 4054.35±22.14 litres, 301.84±0.26 days, 99.40±0.15 days and 401.33±0.33 days respectively. The period of calving has significant influence on AFC and WFC, whereas non-significant influence on FLMY, FLP and FDP. The season showed significant influence on all the traits under study except FLMY. Both period and season has highly significant influence on FCI.
Elevated MicroRNA‐128 in Periodontitis Mitigates Tumor Necrosis Factor‐α Response via p38 Signaling Pathway in Macrophages
Authors: Na Hee Sam , Park Mi Hee , Song Yu Ri , Kim Seyeon , Kim Hyung‐Joon , Lee Ju Youn , Choi Jeom‐Il , Chung Jin
Published: May 2016

Background: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease resulting from an inflammatory response to subgingival plaque bacteria, including Porphyromonas gingivalis. MicroRNA (miRNA) is a current focus in regulating the inflammatory processes. In this study, the inflammatory miRNA expression in gingival tissues of patients with periodontitis and of healthy individuals is compared, and its role in regulating the inflammatory response is examined.

Methods: Gingival tissues from patients with periodontitis and healthy individuals were collected for miRNA microarray. THP‐1 and CA9‐22 cells were challenged with P. gingivalis, and miRNA expression was determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Target genes for miRNA were predicted using TargetScanHuman database, and miRNA gene expressions were reviewed using public databases. For the functional study, THP‐1 cells were transfected with a miRNA‐128 mimic, and target gene expression was compared with THP‐1 cells challenged with P. gingivalis. For the tolerance test, THP‐1 cells transfected with miRNA‐128 mimic were treated with phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA) or paraformaldehyde (PFA)‐fixed Escherichia coli. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α production was determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) protein phosphorylation was determined by Western blot.

Results: Gingival tissues from patients with periodontitis showed increased expression of miRNA‐128, miRNA‐34a, and miRNA‐381 and decreased expression of miRNA‐15b, miRNA‐211, miRNA‐372, and miRNA‐656. THP‐1 cells and CA9‐22 cells challenged with P. gingivalis showed increased miRNA‐128 expression. Among the predicted miRNA‐128 target genes, several genes that are involved in MAPK signaling pathway showed similar gene expression pattern between P. gingivalis challenge and miRNA‐128 mimic transfection. In THP‐1 cells transfected with miRNA‐128 mimic, TNF‐α production was lower, and phosphorylation of p38 was inhibited when challenged with PMA or PFA‐fixed E. coli.

Conclusion: miRNA‐128 may be involved in mitigating the inflammatory response induced by P. gingivalis in periodontitis.
Determinação do tamanho amostral para a validação de processo de produtos estéreis na indústria farmacêutica
Authors: Wruck Emerson , Julião Fabio S.
Published: May 2016

Este trabalho teve como objetivo propor uma metodologia para a determinação do tamanho amostral, que  consiga inferir resultados para todo o lote inspecionado por amostragem, no processo de inspeção para a validação de processo de produtos estéreis na industria farmacêutica, considerando o problema como um teste de hipóteses, sendo priorizada a especifi cação do erro tipo II. Foi feita a avaliação dos possíveis erros estatísticos envolvidos nos procedimentos farmacopéicos atuais de inspeção e foi sugerida uma adaptação desses procedimentos segundo a metodologia exposta no trabalho.
Pregled odmevnosti člankov, objavljenih v reviji Zbornik gozdarstva in lesarstva v zbirkah Web of science
Authors: Božič Maja
Published: May 2016

The article presents a citation analysis of articles published in the journal Zbornik gozdarstva in lesarstva in the database Web of Science (WoS) throughout the journalʼs existence, including the year 2011; citations were obtained in February 2013. Journal is not indexed in WoS, therefore, the analysis is focused on citations in journals that are indexed in the database.The purpose of the analysis is to assess the visibility of the journalʼs articles in science, which is important for the purpose of evaluating research performance and for the journalʼs editorial policy in the future. From its establishment in 1957 (in 1973 the current title was introduced, while prior to that year the title had been changed twice) and until 2011, which was the last year included in the research, 738 articles were published in the journal. 161 (21.8%) of the articles have been cited 267times in journals that are indexed in WoS. On average, each cited journal has been cited 1.7 times. 34.6% of citations were done by non-Slovene authors. Citations in the database WoS can be found under 21 different variations of the journalʼs title, which indicates many inconsistencies. Citations of the articles published in Zbornik gozdarstva in lesarstva can be found in 76 different journals, which are classified in 32 different WoS categories; only one third of them is not in any of the three major categories: forestry (37.7%), botany (17.5%) and environmental sciences (10.4%). Inclusion of the journal Zbornik gozdarstva in lesarstva into WoS database, combined with the provision of open access, would probably improve its international visibility.
Deževniki kot kazalniki onesnaženosti tal
Authors: Al Sayegh-Petkovšek Samar , Kopušar Nataša
Published: May 2016

The metal levels were determined in soil samples in earthworms collected in the vicinity of the abandoned lead smelter (the Upper Meža Valley, Žerjav) andthe largest thermal power plant in Slovenia (the Šalek Valley, Veliki Vrh),near Velenje - Celje road (Črnova) and at the reference area (the Logar Valley, Polanc) with the aim to investigate the transfer of metals from soil to earthworms and to assess the bioindicative potential of earthworms. Our study revealed the following: (i) the highest levels of metals were determinedin earthworms from the most polluted area (Žerjav) and the lowest inearthworms from the reference location (the Logar Valley); (ii) earthworms bioaccumulated Cd, Hg and Zn at all locations, bioaccumulative factors (BCF) of these three metals ranged between 1.18 - 29.2 (Cd), 1.68 - 21.0 (Hg) and 1.10 - 5.57 (Zn), respectively; (iii) earthworms are good bioindicator of polluted soil, since the correlations between Zn, Cd, Cu, Pb, Hg and Mo in soil and in earthworms were established.
Sexual dimorphism and distribution OF Daphne laureola L. in the Bohor area
Authors: Jagrič Miha , Jarni Kristjan , Brus Robert
Published: May 2016

Gynodioecious Daphne laureola L. is one of six species of the genus Daphne L. native to Slovenia. The main goals of this research were to determine the distribution of Daphne laureola in the Bohor area, the sexual structure of populations and its correlation with site conditions, and whether morphological differences exist between females and hermaphrodites beyond those of flower structure. Four research plots located on the north side of Bohor were selected - two in each altitude range. A total of 277 plants were studied to determine the sexual structure of the populations, 90 of which were additionally studied for sexual dimorphism. The species was recorded for the first time in quadrant 9959/1 of the Central European flora mapping grid, extending its previously known distribution. The share of female plants was between 3.17% and 47.17% and was lower at higher altitudes. The frequency of plants, morphological traits, and the proportion of female individuals are highly correlated with environmental factors. Plants bore more flowers at higher altitudes, and leaves were longer, with rounder tips and sharper bases.The majority of morphological differences between females and hermaphrodites were minor and not statistically significant.
Sedanje stanje razširjenosti robinije (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) v Sloveniji in napovedi za prihodnost
Authors: Kutnar Lado , Kobler Andrej
Published: May 2016

In this study, we analyse the growing stock of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) and its share in Slovenian forests. In addition, based on empirical model and climate change scenarios, we predict its distribution and share in the future. Black locust is the commonest non-native tree species in Slovenian forests. The current growing stock of black locust is near 0.6% of the total growing stock of our forests. This tree species has the highest share in forests of the Regional Unit of Murska Sobota and Regional Karst Area Unit (Sežana). Should the recent climate change scenarios, which all predict an increase in mean air temperature in the future, proved to be true, the share of the black locustʼ growing stock will increase gradually in the eastern, north-eastern and south-western parts of Slovenia. Higher share of this species can be expected also in the lowlands and hilly area of central Slovenia. According to the forecasts of the model, the black locustʼs growing stock could at least double in comparison with its present state by the end of the century. In such situation our forestry will be faced with even more difficulties associated with this invasive tree species. Through a more consistent implementation of the concepts of sustainability in forestry, the balance between this invasive alien species, which is less desirable in our forests, and its many benefits and interests of the forest owners needs to be found.
On the use of R programming language in the analyses of spatial data
Authors: Kobal Milan , Ceglar Andrej , Eler Klemen , Medved-Cvikl Barbara , Honzak Luka , Simončič Primož , Hladnik David
Published: May 2016

R is a powerful and increasingly popular programming language with strong graphical and presentation features and large expanŽdability. Although primarily intended for statistical computing, R has paved its way to the field of GIS through the development of specialized extension packages. It offers a wide range of functions at all GIS levels: data acquisition, data manipulation, graphical reŽpresentation and quantitative analysis. The paper presents R as an open source alternative to the existing commercial GIS software. It proves especially well when advanced quantitative methods on spatial data are needed (e.g. spatial modelling). We demonstrate R capabilities through spatial analysis of forest area in Snežnik (South Slovenia), where the possibilities of data import, conversion and export into various GIS formats and possibilities of geostatistics, spatial modelling and spatial visualization are demonstrated.
Phytosociological description of Quercus petraea forest stands with Chamaecytisus hirsutus and Erica carnea in the Vipavska brda (southwestern Slovenia)
Authors: Dakskobler Igor
Published: May 2016

We conducted a phytosociological study of Quercus petraea stands, whose herb layer is dominated by Erica carnea in the flysch hills of Vipavska brda and on the margins of the Vrhe plateau (southwestern Slovenia). We have determined that they are a long-term degradation stage on beech forest sites from the association Seslerio autumnalis-Fagetum. Based on comparisons with similar sessile oak stands from associations Melampyro vulgati-Quercetum petraeae, Seslerio autumnalis-Quercetum petraeae and Erico carneae-Quercetum petraeae, the studied stands are classified into the new association Chamaecytiso hirsuti-Quercetum petraeae. They are best differentiated from the stands of compared communities by the species Erica carnea, Sorbus aria, Lathyrus linifolius, Loranthus europaeus and Erythronium dens-canis. The new association is classified into the alliance Carpinion orientalis and order Quercetalia pubescenti-petraeae.
Pomen in vplivi vran, s poudarkom na sivi vrani (Corvus cornix), v (sub)urbanem okolju
Authors: Pokorny Boštjan , Flajšman Katarina , Jelenko Ida
Published: May 2016

In recent decades, the increase in number of crows, particularly the hooded crow (Corvus cornix), in the (sub)urban environment has resulted in the ever-increasing conflicts with humans. Consequently, this has resulted in growing demands for solving problems with crows and for significant reductions in abundance of these birds (particularly in the urban environment), which happened also in Slovenia. However, Slovene professional-scientific literature does not provide any scientific data that would confirm or even evaluate possible negative impacts of crows on humans, society or ecosystems. For this reason, a comprehensive review of foreign studies on interactions among humans and crows is presented in this paper, which aims to contribute to a better understanding of conflicts with (especially hooded) crows in the urban and rural environment and therefore also to suitable management of species. Due to (rather stigmatised) opinion on negative impacts of crows on populations of other bird species, an overview of studies on the effects of (hooded) crows as predators is also provided. It is very evident from the literature that crows certainly play an important role in ecosystems, and are also involved in many conflict situations with human both on agricultural land (damages on crops and infrastructure) and in urban ecosystems (damage on property, attacks on humans, disturbing peace of residents, pollution in urban areas). In order to make suitable and reasonable management decisions, it would be necessary to systematically study comprehensive ecosystem values of (hooded) crows and their conflicts with humans both in agricultural and urban areas of Slovenia. Based on these findings, appropriate measures to reduce both the number and volume of negative interactions as well as to increase the tolerance of crows in public should be implemented.
Makro EWVA - učinkovito orodje za analizo prevodnih elementov ranega lesa venčastoporoznih listavcev
Authors: Jevšenak Jernej , Levanič Tom
Published: May 2016

In this paper, program ImageJ and its application in tree-ring anatomy is presented. The main advantage of the program is its availability and possibility to add additional tools and macros. Platform of ImageJ programme was used to develop macro EWVA for automatized recognition of earlywood and effective analysis of vessels of ring porous species. Use of EWVA macro is presented in a case study of two pedunculate oaks from the Mlače stand. Advantages and disadvantages of the presented method are discussed.
Mortality and crown conditions on Quercus robur L. permanent plots - a 20-year overview
Authors: Čater Matjaž
Published: May 2016

Pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.) forests in Slovenia are experiencing widespread mortality. Changes in lowlands are reflected in decline of complete forest complexes, high mortality, uneven stand structure and associated forest regeneration problems. Prediction of the present-tree response in disturbed forest ecosystems may significantly contribute to better guideline policies for the silvicultural and forest management practice in the changing environment in both stressed and stabile forest ecosystems. Data from annual crown condition surveys in the 1995-2014 period from four permanent plots have been compared with parameters from hemispherical photo analysis and hydrometeorological data. Good agreement has been confirmed between crown defoliation and total openness; all parameters from the hemispherical photo analysis, which were corrected for winter period values, also indicated a better agreement. Mortality rate and crown defoliation correlated well with extreme drought events. Pattern of agreement among compared parameters was different for the Krakovski gozd and Dobrava plots on one hand and Cigonca and Hraščica plots on the other hand. Mortality is influenced by the average air temperatures much more than by precipitation and groundwater table oscillations
Dilemmas in Development Raised by a Teacher Training Project in Cambodia
Authors: Gravelle Maggie
Published: May 2016

The Cambodian Basic Education and Teacher Training Project (BETT) funded by the Belgian Technical Cooperation (BTC) programme and jointly implemented by BTC and the Cambodian Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS) includes an Early Literacy Programme (ELP). Being involved, as a consultant, in this development project has raised a number of issues, many of which are common to all such projects and some of which are specific to teacher training.
To the Dissertation and Beyond: Independent Study in the New Undergraduate Curriculum
Authors: Ainley Patrick
Published: May 2016

Over the past 30 years social changes have taken place which makes the dialogue of teachers with students as the essential preserve of the higher educational community difficult. This is not only the case for the new universities that have made the most efforts to widen participation. With the decline of industry and the expansion of services, a reformation of social class has re-designated many jobs in what has become the ‘working-middle’ of society as professional occupations requiring higher qualifications. Partly in response to this pressure for certification, many young people are leaving school and college later with supposedly higher standards but often trained rather than educated, or “over schooled but undereducated” (A. Ainley, and Allen 2010). Training to meet externally verified competences is also extending into higher education. Paradoxically, considering the hopes invested in it, new information and communications technology has not necessarily helped. While ICT allows access to a mass of information, it has also facilitated a culture of plagiarism and undermined existing expertise by multiplying the possibly verifiable criteria for new knowledge. On top of all this, academics have also often not helped themselves by designing courses which make a virtue of student choice from a range of options that may even deny the possibility of students constructing coherent conceptual totalities related to their fields of study.
Open spaces, mobile learning: findings from the iBorrow project
Authors: Barry Wayne
Published: May 2016

Introduction Augustine House was one of the most important building programmes in Canterbury Christ Church University’s history. The purpose was to create and develop a large state of the art library and student support centre that offered innovative, technology-rich facilities for staff and students to use. An important feature of Augustine House was the creation of fl exible recreational and learning spaces that would allow students to learn, work and relax in a manner and place of their choosing. The iBorrow project was part of the second phase of the Joint Information Systems Committee’s institutional innovation programme. The aim of the project was to create a laptop loan service that was entirely self-service and that should be no more complicated than borrowing a book. Radio-frequency identifi cation (RFID) tags were placed inside iBorrow notebooks in the anticipation that the geo-location tracking data overlaid with additional information would provide a better understanding on how students use the digital and electronic resources available to them as individuals or within groups.
The Experience of Online Marking and the Future Development of Online Marking Practice
Authors: Rankin Sandra , Demetre James
Published: May 2016

This case study describes a snapshot of the use and the perceptions of online marking (OM) via Turnitin within the School of Health & Social Care at the University of Greenwich. A small online survey was made available to teaching staff for a limited period of three weeks. The purpose of the survey was to informally review how staff felt about using online marking (OM) compared to paper marking. Those staff members who had already used online marking were invited to respond to three quantitative and two qualitative questions about their online marking preferences. A 28% response rate indicated that those who used online marking identified several positive aspects of OM such as handling less paper, the need for less storage space and increased quality of feedback to students.
Developing the Feedback Process: Promoting Teacher and Student Dialogue via the Use of Screen Capture and Audio
Authors: Carr Louise , Lee Howard
Published: May 2016

Hadlow College is part of the Mixed Economy Group (MEG): approximately 40 Colleges, which are seeking to provide effective support to higher education (HE) students within further education (FE) institutions. As part of this commitment we have been studying how to improve the quality of our HE formative feedback for written assignments and posters. We are conscious of existing research within higher education institutions (HEIs) to overhaul formative assessment and feedback practices: e.g. the Re-engineering Assessment Practices (REAP) project at the Universities of Glasgow and Glasgow Caledonian (see Nicol and Macfarlane-Dick, 2006). In that research seven principles of good feedback practice had been identified: (i) clarify what good performance is; (ii) facilitate self-assessment; (iii) deliver high quality feedback information; (iv) encourage teacher and peer dialogue; (v) encourage positive motivation and self-esteem; (vi) provide opportunities to close the gap, and; (vii) use feedback to improve teaching. We wanted to find a tool that would allow the use of screen capture and audio to increase feedback options for HE students at Hadlow College.
Video Use in Reflective Practice: Experience from Educating Speech and Language Therapists
Authors: Stokes Jane , Cummins Keena
Published: May 2016

This case study shares the experiences of speech and language therapy lecturers in higher education using video with students and practitioners to support reflective practice. The authors believe that video forms a fundamental role in developing the core skills of health, social and education professionals. Frequently teachers in higher education and students alike present with a reluctance to engage with the use of video. Possible reasons for this are discussed. The importance of careful preparatory and debriefing sessions is emphasized, as is the need for an observation schedule. The key ingredients to ensuring that video is effective as a learning tool as well as the challenges are examined. The experience may well have resonance with others in higher education involved in the development of critical reflection associated with students’ communication and interaction.
Grounding research projects in the undergraduate curriculum: assessment strategies
Authors: Laycock Angela
Published: May 2016

In their 2009 paper, Developing Undergraduate Research and Enquiry, Mick Healey and Alan Jenkins observed, “The key to developing undergraduate research and inquiry is to mainstream it and integrate it into the curriculum for all students” (Healey & Jenkins 2009, 6).  The following case study gives an account of the steps taken to incorporate two research projects, one international and one community-based, into the final year undergraduate curriculum resulting in significant student success and programme development. Both used a grounded theory model. This led to the development of an assessment regime to achieve the dual aims of providing the student with the opportunity to learn through participatory research and, at the same time, furnishing the commissioner of the research with meaningful findings and recommendations.
A response to ‘teaching ‘dry’ subjects without tears’
Authors: Thompson Andrew David
Published: May 2016

Examining the challenges of teaching 'dry' subjects such as land law.
‘Flipping the classroom’: a theoretical and practical exploration
Authors: Jump Lynne
Published: May 2016

This case study explores the use of the ‘flipped classroom’ in the context of an undergraduate Academic Preparation course. The initiative inverted delivery of the course in that the students studied the formal content as homework and small group discussion and individual support was provided during face to face classroom time. There is very little research evidence in support of the recommendations that by flipping the classroom overall student learning is improved. Therefore this study explores the concepts that underpin the flipped classroom both theoretically and practically, and reports on student feedback of the initiative. As a group the students expressed low levels of satisfaction with the course delivery but individually students reported a strong sense of personal achievement.
A complete Greenwich degree in a personal learning space
Authors: Rebbeck Geoff
Published: May 2016

This Case study shows and explains the issues and value of placing a whole Greenwich first degree completed in Jan. 2007 into an e-portfolio. The purpose is to show proof of concept that it is possible and how it looks in basic form, when done retrospectively (6 years later).The completed portfolio was the presentation made at the APT Conference July 2013, audience members also able to access and explore it on personal devices in the session.The Case Study considers whether a degree can be presented inside a portfolio, what the issues are in creating a degree portfolio like this, what limitations may be encountered in the process.It then evaluates the value of this approach, and what might be done with a Greenwich University degree in this form.
Angels in the architecture - and devils in the detail: how the learning space impacts on teaching and learning
Authors: Challinor Jane
Published: May 2016

An innovative classroom design pioneered in the US, which aims to facilitate greater student engagement, has been piloted in a UK University for the first time.  This case study reflects on some of the advantages and the challenges of this technology rich learning space and considers its impact on curriculum design in a module which aims to develop academic, research and digital skills in first year students on an undergraduate Health and Social Care course.
Editor's Introduction
Authors: Pazio Monika
Published: May 2016

Introduction to our 10th edition by editor Monika Pazio.
Flipping the Debate
Authors: Stripe Katie
Published: May 2016

APT2015 ‘Flipping the Institution: Higher Education in the post Digital Age’focused on exploring the challenges and opportunities created by the rapid changes in technology and their potential effects in higher education. ‘Is flipped learning a challenge, an opportunity or a necessity?’ (Stripe and Carrier, 2015) presented the idea that flipped learning is anything that challenges the traditional teacher led model of classroom teaching, especially by introducing technology (FLIP LEARNING, 2016).
E-teaching as companion to e-learning; supporting digital pedagogies and practice in higher education
Authors: Watling Sue
Published: May 2016

This paper seeks to shed light on the hitherto under-researched area of the relationships academics have with their VLE, in particular with regard to reluctance or resistance to move from face-to-face to online practice. While the sector has invested into inquiry around the aspirations and motivations of the digital student (JISC, 2009), the day-to-day digital interactions of staff who teach and support learning, in particular those without technology expertise or natural digital inclinations, have largely gone unrecorded. This paper offers some preliminary findings of a three year action research project investigating attitudes towards virtual learning though a teacher-education lens rather than a traditional technology-training one. Findings have been converted into advice for academics looking to make the shift from face-to-face to e-teaching practice and can be usefully positioned alongside what is already known about the student experience of e-learning.
Movies in the Classroom: Lessons for Curriculum Design
Authors: Gritton Jim , Stewart Jill , Jeavons Charlotte , Mehmet Nevin , La Placa Vincent
Published: May 2016

There is a burgeoning body of literature (Johnson and Jackson 2005; Cornett, 2006; Jensen and Curtis, 2008; Smith, 2009; Edwards et al, 2015) which suggests that, by incorporating into our teaching the humanities, including film, we can enhance the learning experience of our students and help lay the foundations for greater sensitivity, understanding and empathy, as well as make the learning more ‘real’.
Peer Observation of Teaching in E-learning environments in UK Universities
Authors: Kacmaz Zeynep
Published: May 2016

Peer observation of teaching (POT) is presented as a valuable mechanism allowing for the dissemination of ‘best practice’ within university teaching. With the rapid rise of online learning courses, it could be expected that POT would be extended to the online environment. In practice, however, it appears that this development is inconsistent. Likewise, there has been little research into the experiences of teachers of online teaching, with research focused more on the technological aspects than on the delivery of teaching. Using a document analysis of a sample of UK universities and interviews with academics to assess a cross section of current institutional practice, this paper explores the intersection between POT and the online delivery of teaching and learning. The findings indicate that POT has not yet become a standard evaluative and/or developmental process in e-learning environments, although some universities do implement it within their CPD or teacher training programmes.
An Evaluation of e-Learning in Eastern and Western Europe
Authors: Toole Tony , Khetaguri Tamuna , Zangaladze Mzia
Published: May 2016

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David in Wales has been collaborating with colleagues in Georgian State Universities to evaluate current levels of Technology Enhanced Learning usage by staff and students in each institution. The objective was to create an informed picture of the future trajectory of TEL innovation for planning purposes across both regions.This case study describes how detailed surveys of TEL usage by University staff and students were carried out in both Georgia and in Wales. The overall picture in both regions is that this is an important and rapidly developing area of educational innovation that is as much driven by staff and student adoption of emerging technologies as it is by institutional provision.Both staff and students are increasingly using their own devices to engage with teaching and learning. A further trend is the use of social media and online cloud based resources for communications and access to online learning materials. This information is now being used in the formation of new TEL strategies across the institutions.
Developing an Open Education Resource to develop Digital Literacy Skills for Employability in the Life and Health Sciences
Authors: Hack Catherine Jane
Published: May 2016

This case study describes the development of an open educational resource (OER) designed to support students in the identification, evaluation and development of the digital literacies required for employability in the life and health sciences. The OER prompts students to recognise and evidence their existing attributes and identify areas for development; furthermore, it equips them to articulate their experiences and skills to employers. Embedded in these activities is the use of digital literacies, including information gathering, evaluation and sharing, as well as developing and promoting a professional profile. The resource was developed in partnership with students and is now being deployed and evaluated as part of an extra-curricular activity which students can use for evidence in their Higher Education Achievement Report (HEAR).
Bridging the gap: Staff-student partnership through an undergraduate researcher scheme
Authors: Sunley Emma Jane
Published: May 2016

In this report, the operation of the York St John University ‘Students as Researchers Scheme’ (SRS) in the academic year 2013-14 is reviewed. The historical context is set and main aims are explained. The SRS, underpinned by the growing research culture across the University, provides exciting opportunities for staff-student collaboration through research. Recent student evaluation indicates a positive impact on student understanding of research processes, development of transferable skills such as teamwork and communication, and greater clarity about future aspirations. Two feedback projects funded by the SRS have the potential to influence change in feedback processes in line with institutional assessment strategies. This report also describes ways in which the York St John annual undergraduate research conference, closely aligned to the SRS, celebrates the achievements of researchers and offers students an opportunity to network and present their research in a friendly and supportive peer environment. The report concludes by exploring ways to develop the SRS further, which include the creation of an online blog, which, it is argued, will strengthen the sense of an undergraduate researcher community, improve motivation and encourage recording and sharing of progress among staff supervisors and their student researchers.
EQAL to the task: stakeholder responses to a university-wide transformation project.
Authors: Bird Peter , Forsyth Rachel , Stubbs Mark , Whitton Nicola
Published: May 2016

This qualitative case study examines a university change initiative that was unprecedented in pace, scope and scale for the institution concerned: a post-92 UK university. Project documentation, interview and survey data are analysed to present an account of the context, content and process of change; an account that highlights different stakeholder perspectives and offers lessons learned.
“The same but different: researching and enhancing PGR employability and experience in Art & Design”
Authors: Taylor Jacqueline , Vaughan Sian
Published: May 2016

We present and discuss two related projects at Birmingham City University undertaken by the same staff-student partnership: the first a research project to understand the aspirations and motivations of our PGRs; the second, informed by the first, a pilot project to enhance the PGR experience through peer mentoring. The complexity of Art & Design PGR identity and their nuanced professional aspirations means that our PGRs are an extremely individualised group who cannot easily be categorised. The challenge is in enabling individualised provision within a supportive cohort environment. We critically reflect on the significance and impact of each of these projects as having been undertaken through the framework of a staff-student partnership, drawing on our own and our PGRs’ experiences more generally as being the same yet different and individual.
Typo-Resource: developing T&L support materials through collaboration
Authors: Loveland Peter , Moys Jeanne-Louise , Tollett Hannah , Towriss Melissa
Published: May 2016

This paper reports on a collaborative project between staff and students in the Department of Typography & Graphic Communication at the University of Reading. The Partnerships in Learning and Teaching (PLanT) project here described is a direct response to student needs for better online support materials. Methodologically, the project embeds user-centred design principles within an iterative process of design development and participant research. This process has underpinned the development of a prototype for an online interface called Typo-Resource. The resulting initial prototype addresses the usability and user experience dimensions of an online learning resource, moving beyond providing tutor-identified sets of resources to a multifaceted, collaborative, and visual platform for peer learning.
Evaluating partnership and impact in the first year of the Winchester Student Fellows Scheme
Authors: Sims Stuart , King Savannah , Lowe Tom , El-Hakim Yassein
Published: May 2016

This article analyses the outputs of an institutional approach to student engagement that created sixty staff-student partnership opportunities aiming to enhance the learning experience. The Student Fellows Scheme awarded bursaries to students in return for co-leading a project in the broad area of educational development. The projects could be evaluations, research projects or interventions. This paper describes a systematic review of the final outputs of the Student Fellow projects and depicts the extent of staff-student partnerships and the impact of the scheme, demonstrating that the majority of projects are programme-focused, with students as the main beneficiaries. Whilst a key motivation of this review was to analyse the extent of staff-student partnerships, the lack of reference to partnership in many reports illustrated the limitations of the methodology. This review has facilitated a reorganisation of the scheme and developed a structure for continuing analysis of it into the future.
Nitrous Oxide Fluxes, Soil Oxygen, and Denitrification Potential of Urine‐ and Non‐Urine‐Treated Soil under Different Irrigation Frequencies
Authors: Owens Jen , Clough Tim J. , Laubach Johannes , Hunt John E. , Venterea Rodney T. , Phillips Rebecca L.
Published: May 2016

Despite increased use of irrigation to improve forage quality and quantity for grazing cattle (Bos taurus, Linnaeus), there is a lack of data that assess how irrigation practices influence nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from urine‐affected soils. Irrigation effects on soil oxygen (O2) availability, a primary controller of N2O fluxes, is poorly understood. It was hypothesized that increased irrigation frequency would result in lower N2O emissions by increasing soil moisture and decreasing soil O2 concentrations. This would favor more N2O reduction to dinitrogen (N2). We examined effects of high (3‐d) versus low (6‐d) irrigation frequency with and without bovine urine addition to pasture. Nitrous oxide fluxes were measured daily for 35 d. Soil O2, temperature, and water content were continuously measured at multiple depths. Inorganic nitrogen, organic carbon, and soil pH were measured at 6‐d intervals. Measurements of denitrification enzyme activity with and without acetylene inhibition were used to infer the N2O/(N2O + N2) ratio. The N2O/(N2O + N2) ratio was lower under high‐ compared with low‐frequency irrigation, suggesting greater potential for N2O reduction to N2 with more frequent irrigation. Although N2O fluxes were increased by urine addition, they were not affected by irrigation frequency. Soil O2 decreased temporarily after urine deposition, but O2 dynamics did not explain N2O dynamics. Relative soil gas diffusivity (DP/DO) was a better predictor of N2O fluxes than O2 concentration. On a free‐draining soil, increasing irrigation frequency while providing the same total water volume did not enhance N2O emissions under ruminant urine patches in a grazed pasture.

Core Ideas

Irrigation effects on N2O emissions from ruminant urine patches are rarely studied.

Irrigation frequency influenced soil oxygen and N2O reductase enzyme.

N2O emission was unaffected by irrigation frequency on a free‐draining soil

Soil gas diffusivity (DP/DO) was a strong predictor of cumulative N2O emissions.