bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Feedback Control Strategies for Operation of Granulation Loops
Authors: Vesjolaja Ludmila , Glemmestad Bjørn , Lie Bernt
Published: December 2021

Granulation is a particle enlargement process during which fine particles or atomizable liquids are converted into granules via a series of complex granulation mechanisms. In this paper, two feedback control strategies are implemented to make granulation loop processes more steady to operate, i.e., to suppress oscillatory behavior in the produced granule sizes. In the first control strategy, a classical proportional-integral (PI) controller is used, while in the second, a double-loop control strategy is used to control the median diameter of the granules leaving the granulator. The simulation results showed that using the proposed control design for the granulation loop can eliminate the oscillatory behaviour in the produced granule median diameter and make granulation loop processes more steady to operate. A comparison between the two proposed control strategies showed that it is preferable to use the double-loop control strategy.
Nutraceutical Properties of Legume Seeds: Phytochemical Compounds
Authors: Ha Pham Thi Hai , Luan Nguyen Thanh
Published: December 2021

Legume seeds have an important role as nutraceuticals in human health (providing protein, carbohydrates, fiber, amino acids, and micronutrients) and act as sustainable food sources in livestock farming and aquaculture. Legume seeds contain a wide range of bioactive compounds that have significant health benefits, mainly classified under phenolic compounds, phytosterols, oligosaccharides, carbohydrates, and saponins. Some of these compounds play an important role in plant defense mechanisms against predators and environmental conditions. Heat-labile antinutritional factors (protease inhibitors and lectins) and heat-stable antinutritional factors (tannins and phytic acid) can be reduced by thermal treatment or postharvest to eliminate any potential negative effects from consumption. Substantial studies have demonstrated that these bioactive compounds possess multiple biological activities, including antioxidant properties, antibacterial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, cardiovascular protective. They also have various values for aquaculture, such as fishmeal alternative. In this review, the main bioactive compounds and important biological functions of legume seeds are summarized, and the mechanism of action is discussed.
Algal Alginate in Biotechnology: Biosynthesis and Applications
Authors: Yarkent Cagla , Aslanbay Guler Bahar , Gurlek Ceren , Sahin Yaprak , Kose Ayse , S. Oncel Suphi , Imamoglu Esra
Published: December 2021

Algae are recognized as the main producer of commercial alginate. Alginate produced using algae is located in the walls and intracellular regions of their cells. Its properties vary depending on the species, growing and harvesting seasons, and extraction methods. Alginate has attracted the attention of several industries, thanks to its unique properties such as its biodegradability, biocompatibility, renewability and lack of toxicity features. For example, it is considered a good encapsulation agent due to the transparent nature of the alginate matrices. Also, this biopolymer is recognized as a functional food in the food industry. It can be tolerated easily in human body and has the ability to reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Besides, it is used as an abrasive agent, antioxidant, and thickening and stabilizing agents in cosmetic and pharmaceutic industries. Generally, it is used in emulsion systems and wound dressing patches. Furthermore, this polysaccharide has the potential to be used in green nanotechnologies as a drug delivery vehicle via cell microencapsulation. Moreover, it is suitable to adopt as a coagulant due to its wide range of flocculation dose and high shear stability. In this chapter, the mentioned usage areas of algal alginate are explained in more detail.
The Relative Age Effect in Czech U14 Male and Female Tennis Players in 2007–2016
Authors: Koloničný Roman
Published: December 2021

The issue of the Relative Age Effect (RAE) has been long researched, discussed and published both in the academic and coaching community and the number of studies on it in various sports has significantly grown in recent years. The aim of this study was to verify the existence of RAE among Czech male (n = 6552) and female (n = 4131) junior tennis players and to identify possible differences in birthdate effect between male and female players. The research was carried out in players registered in the years 2007–2016 in the U14 age category in Czech Tennis Association (CTA) database; the athletes were divided into three subgroups (‘Ranked’, ‘Top 100’, ‘Top 10’). Research data were analysed by the methods of descriptive and inferential statistics: relative and absolute frequency, chi-square goodness of fit test () and chi-square test of independence () with the use of effect size (ES index w). A declining tendency of frequencies from Q1 to Q4 between male and female junior players was proven in all three subgroups.In the whole period of 2007–2016, a significant and strong RAE was demonstrated only in the ‘Top 10’ male subgroup (RAE was significant and ES was small or trivial in the other two subgroups). Among the female players, RAE was significant in all three subgroups (ES was small or trivial). Gender differences in RAE in favour of male players were significant in ‘Top 100’ and ‘Ranked’ (ES was small or trivial in all three subgroups). In the short and long term, RAE can have significant implications for the sport development of athletes; both coaches and the professional public can therefore be recommended to pay attention to this issue. The impact of RAE in sport, i.e. the uneven distribution of athletes’ birthdates, is more pronounced especially among junior athletes and often significantly affects their sports development and career.
New data on the distribution of Lepidoptera in Montenegro, with a review of aberrant forms
Authors: Jakšić Predrag , King Andrew
Published: December 2021

During the three-year period of investigations, species from the families Depressariidae Meyrick, 1883, Pyralidae Latreille, 1809, Crambidae Latreille, 1810, Lycaenidae Leach, 1815, Nymphalidae Rafinesque, 1815, Geometridae Leach, 1815 and Erebidae Leach, 1815 were investigated. Investigations were carried out in 20 localities, distributed throughout the entire territory of Montenegro. Two species are listed for Montenegro for the first time: Hypoxystis pluviaria (Fabricius, 1787) and Aspitates ochrearia (Rossi, 1794).
Geographic variation in personality is associated with fertility across the United States
Authors: Junkins Eleanor J. , Potter Joseph E. , Rentfrow Peter J. , Gosling Samuel D. , Potter Jeff , Harden K. Paige , Tucker-Drob Elliot M. , Derringer Jaime , Briley Daniel A.
Published: December 2021

Levels of fertility and the shape of the age-specific fertility schedule vary substantially across U.S. regions with some states having peak fertility relatively early and others relatively late. Structural institutions or economic factors partly explain these heterogeneous patterns, but regional differences in personality might also contribute to regional differences in fertility. Here, we evaluated whether variation in extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, and openness to experience measured at the U.S. state-level was associated with the level, timing, and context of fertility across states above and beyond sociodemographics, voting behavior, and religiosity. Generally, states with higher levels of agreeableness and conscientiousness had more traditional fertility patterns, and states with higher levels of neuroticism and openness had more nontraditional fertility patterns, even after controlling for established correlates of fertility (r ~ |.50|). Personality is an overlooked correlate that can be leveraged to understand the existence and persistence of fertility differentials.
Seletividade e eficácia de herbicidas aplicados à cultura do trigo
Authors: Galon Leandro , Ulkovski Cleiton , Rossetto Emanuel Rodrigo de Oliveira , Cavaletti Daniel Cristian , Weirich Sabrina Natalia , Brandler Daiani , Silva Antônio Marcos Loureiro da , Perin Gismael Francisco
Published: December 2021

As plantas daninhas ocasionam efeitos negativos na produtividade e na qualidade dos grãos da cultura do trigo quando não controladas de modo eficiente. Assim sendo, objetivou-se com os trabalhos avaliar a seletividade e a eficácia de herbicidas aplicados para o manejo de plantas daninhas infestante da cultivar de trigo TBIO Sinuelo. Foram instalados dois experimentos, um para avaliar a seletividade e outro a eficácia de herbicidas aplicados em trigo, em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos testados foram: iodosulfuron, pyroxsulam, metsulfuron-methyl, 2,4-D, clodinafope-propargil, [bentazon + imazamox], saflufenacil, bentazon, carfentrazone-ethyl, imazamox, pendimethalin, [sulfentrazone + diuron], mais duas testemunhas uma capinada e outra infestada. Os herbicidas que ocasionaram as maiores injúrias ao trigo foram o imazamox e a mistura comercial de [bentazon + imazamox] com fitotoxicidade próxima a 50%. A aplicação da mistura comercial de [sulfentrazone + diuron] demonstrou a maior produtividade de grãos do trigo. O uso de clodinafope-propargil e pyroxsulam apresentaram os melhores controles de Lolium multiflorum, com 100 e 98,25%, aos 21 dias após a aplicação dos tratamentos, respectivamente. Ocorreu controle acima de 90% de Raphanus raphanistrum com uso de iodosulfuron, pyroxsulam, metsulfuron-methyl, 2,4-D, [bentazon + imazamox], saflufenacil, bentazon e carfentrazone. O clodinafope-propargil demonstra o maior controle para o azevém e o iodosulfuron-ethyl, pyroxsulam, metsulfurom-metílico, 2,4-D, saflufenacil e carfentrazone para o nabo. O pyroxsulam foi o tratamento que demonstrou, nos dois experimentos, os melhores resultados para os componentes da produção, especialmente para a produtividade da cultura.
Avaliação da flutuação populacional epifítica de Pseudomonas marginalis pv. marginalis e sua relação com a severidade da queima-bacteriana do alho
Authors: Marcuzzo Leandro Luiz , Catafesta Graziele
Published: December 2021

A cultura do alho é afetada pela queima-bacteriana causada por Pseudomomas marginalis pv. marginalis (Pmm). Com o objetivo de avaliar a relação da flutuação populacional epifítica de Pmm com a severidade da doença, bulbilhos do cultivar “Chonan” foram inoculados com a bactéria diferenciadora mutante a rifampicina (Pmmrf) e semeados a campo. A severidade foi avaliada semanalmente em 100 plantas ao acaso e a população epifítica de Pmmrf das folhas foi diluída em série e depositada em meio de cultura com rifampicina. Após a incubação a 28°C por 48 horas, as colônias de Pmmrf foram contadas. Os dados foram submetidos à correlação de Pearson e avaliada a sua significância pelo teste. A severidade da doença e a população epifítica iniciaram a partir da sétima semana. A severidade final atingiu 67 e 74% no ciclo de 2019 e 2020 respectivamente. A população epifítica quando atingiu a ordem de 105 e 106 em cada ano, manteve-se estável até o final do ciclo da cultura. A correlação foi de 0,688 e 0,521 para cada ano, indicando uma correlação moderada e significativa entre a severidade da doença e a população bacteriana.
Habilidades del siglo XXI y entornos de aprendizaje STEAM: una revisión
Authors: Krüger Mariano Wilson , Chiappe Andres
Published: December 2021

El desarrollo de las habilidades del siglo XXI se menciona actualmente como uno de los objetivos clave que deben alcanzar los sistemas educativos en todo el mundo, para que los ciudadanos en su conjunto puedan adaptarse adecuadamente al mercado laboral y en general, a la sociedad del futuro. El propósito de esta revisión es, dado el explosivo y creciente interés en este tema, identificar las diversas definiciones de las llamadas habilidades del siglo XXI para luego reconocer las relaciones que se puedan encontrar entre estas habilidades y los entornos de aprendizaje STEAM, los cuales recientemente han sido propuestos como escenarios capaces de desarrollarlas. El estudio se desarrolló como una revisión sistemática de literatura a partir de procesos de abstracting y lectura en profundidad de 153 artículos científicos publicados en revistas indexadas en Scopus y Scielo. Los resultados del estudio sugieren que, para conducir el desarrollo de las habilidades del siglo XXI, conviene tener en cuenta al momento de diseñar entornos de aprendizaje STEAM, asuntos como el cambio en la evaluación hacia una experiencia más formativa, la inclusión de ambientes colaborativos y sociales, la aplicación de estrategias de aprendizaje basadas en la investigación y la gamificación y el juego, entre otras.

The development of the so-called 21st century skills is currently mentioned as one of the key objectives that education systems must achieve throughout the world, so that citizens as a whole can adapt adequately to the labor market and in general, to the future society. The purpose of this review is, given the explosive and growing interest in this topic, to identify the various definitions of the skills of the 21st century and then to recognize the relationships that can be found between these skills and STEAM learning environments, which recently have been proposed as suitable scenarios for developing them. The study was developed as a systematic literature review based on abstracting and in-depth reading of 153 scientific articles published in journals indexed in Scopus and Scielo. The results of the study suggest that, in order to guide the development of 21st century skills, it is convenient to consider when designing STEAM learning environments, issues such as the change in the assessment towards a more formative experience, the inclusion of collaborative and social environments, the use of research-based learning strategies and gamification and games, among others.
Integración del Pensamiento Computacional en la educación primaria y secundaria en Latinoamérica: una revisión sistemática de literatura
Authors: Quiroz-Vallejo Daniel Andrés , Carmona-Mesa Jaime Andrés , Castrillón-Yepes Alexander , Villa-Ochoa Jhony Alexander
Published: December 2021

El Pensamiento Computacional (PC) se ha consolidado como una línea de investigación internacional, sin embargo, en Latinoamérica son limitados los estudios que examinan su desarrollo e integración en la educación primaria y secundaria. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la integración del PC en la educación primaria y secundaria en Latinoamérica, a partir de una revisión sistemática de literatura de los estudios publicados entre 2006 y 2020. Los resultados se agruparon en dos categorías principales: las conceptualizaciones del PC y las estrategias usadas para la integración del PC. Se encontró que las conceptualizaciones se dividen en dos grupos: unas ligadas a las ciencias de la computación y otras en las que se entiende el PC como un recurso metodológico. Frente a las estrategias, se encontró que las más usadas en la región son la robótica educativa y la programación en lenguajes con bloques.
Whole issue 14.2
Authors: Value Language
Published: December 2021

Whole issue
Climate Change and Sustainability in Czech Wheat Production
Authors:   Faculty of Economics and Management, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Czech Republic, Hálová Pavlína , Mach Jiří ,   Faculty of Economics and Management, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Czech Republic, Čechura Lukáš ,   Faculty of Economics and Management, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Czech Republic, Slaboch Josef ,   Faculty of Economics and Management, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Czech Republic
Published: December 2021

The paper deals with the analysis of Czech wheat production and its determinants. We use the Just and Pope (1979) stochastic production function to estimate the effects of economic and weather variables, together with technological progress and climate change, on wheat yield in the Czech regions in the period 1961–2018. The results suggest that both economic and environmental factors play important roles in the wheat yield function. The output/input price ratio has a positive effect on the wheat yield. The effects of temperature and precipitation are month-specific and highly non-linear. Technological change also has a positive effect on yield, whereas climate change has a rather negative effect on wheat yield.
Microfinance as a Mechanism against Financial Exclusion in the European Rural Areas – an Inspiration for the Czech Republic
Authors: Chmelíková Gabriela , Krauss Annette , Lategan Francois
Published: December 2021

One of the factors influencing the emergence of disparities between rural and urban regions is the varying level of financial inclusion of the population. The system of microfinancing is becoming an important mechanism against poverty and social exclusion in Europe. However, there is available very limited legal, regulatory and historical information on the microfinance system in the Czech Republic. As a result, microfinance institutions are absent and small entrepreneurs tend to use expensive consumer credit products, thereby increasing the risk of over-indebtedness. The aim of this research is to examine the repayment performance of the European microfinance institutions with increased share of clients from rural areas. Based on an empirical statistical analysis of an unique European microfinance institutions´ database, we are presenting evidence that suggests that microfinance systems perform better in rural than in urban areas. This finding is strongly recommended for consideration in the development of policies to guide legal frameworks regarding microfinancing.
Comparison of Situation in the Slovak and Czech Market of Milk and Dairy Products
Authors: Kubicová Ľubica , Predanocyová Kristína , Kádeková Zdenka , Košičiarová Ingrida , Dvořák Marek
Published: December 2021

The paper is focused on dairy sector with the emphasis on the development of consumption of milk and dairy products, including cheese, curd and other dairy products, in the last 15 years in the Slovak Republic and in the Czech Republic. The aim of the paper is to identify the level of milk and dairy products consumption, as well as to identify the main determinants affecting the consumption. Paper is also aimed at milk production with emphasis on the main problems that may affect future development on the dairy market. The primary data are obtained by consumer survey and survey aimed focused on producers of milk and dairy products. Based on the results we have identified that the milk and dairy products consumption by Slovak consumers is lower compared to the Czech Republic and the quality and price are considered as the main determinants influencing the consumption. We also found out that milk and dairy products producers are adapting their production to demand, but it is important to point out the barriers related in particular to the introduction of new technologies into production, rising input prices or growing consumer disinterest in the consumption of milk and dairy products.
La salud mental y los medios de comunicación
Authors:   Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Ollé Candela
Published: December 2021

El suicidio es uno de los grandes problemas de salud pública mundial y el Estado español tiene las cifras más altas de la historia, con un incremento de un 7,4 % en el pasado 2020. Los medios de comunicación invisibilizan los suicidios o los tratan de manera contraproducente, a pesar de que existen decálogos y manuales específicos para periodistas. Este año, La Marató de TV3 se centrará en la salud mental y también ha puesto el foco en este tema el trabajo final del máster de Periodismo y Comunicación Digital que ha ganado el primer premio. Un programa solidario de referencia y un excelente trabajo de investigación que seguro nos ayudarán como profesionales o alumnado de comunicación a saber más de este tema.
Evolution of foreign policy priorities of the Western Balkan countries in the context of their European and Euro-Atlantic
Authors: Echimovich Mariana , Danilov Vitaliy Alekseevich , Mardonova Zarina Fazlitdinovna , Karpukhin Maxim Kirillovich
Published: December 2021

This article traces the evolution of foreign policy priorities of the Western Balkan countries in the context of their European and Euro-Atlantic integration over the period from the mid-1990s to 2020. The key goal lies in the analysis of formation and development of the European and Euro-Atlantic vectors in foreign policy of the Western Balkans. The relevance of the selected topic is defined by fact that all Western Balkan countries are somehow involved in the European and Euro-Atlantic integration processes, which prompts transformations in their home and foreign policy. In post-Cold War era, the Western Balkans depart from their foreign policy course, which they have followed since the end of the World War II. The conflicts that were related to dissolution of Yugoslavia underline the expansion of influence of the North Atlantic Alliance as the major “peacekeeper”, and the European Union, which took on the role of post-conflict settlement. In the under their influence. Tracing the evolution of foreign policy priorities of the Western Balkans within the framework of their European and Euro-Atlantic integration defines the scientific novelty of this research. The acquired conclusions can be implemented in theoretical and practical activity. The article explores the regional initiatives of NATO and EU, which were aimed at stabilization of the Western Balkan region through transformation of state and social institutions, development of interstate cooperation, and involvement in regional integration processes. For determination of the role of the European Union and NATO in foreign policy of the Western Balkans, the author analyzed the doctrinal documents of the Western Balkan countries, which highlighted the priority of European and Euro-Atlantic vector.
The Mediating Effect of Creative Personality in the Relationship between Childcare Teacher’s Efficacy and Creative Teaching Behaviour
Authors: Choi Hyo-Jung , Lee Kyunhgwa
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study is to identify the mediating effect of creative personality in the relationship between childcare teachers’ efficacy and creative teaching behavior. The participants of the study were 300 childcare teachers and selected the data between October 14 to 22, 2020. The study results were as follows. First, it evidenced positive correlations among efficacy, creative teaching behavior, and creative personality. Therefore, when childcare teachers show higher efficacy and creative personality levels, creative teaching behavior levels are likely to be higher. Second, childcare teachers’ efficacy directly affected creative teaching behaviors and creative personality, which also directly affected creative teaching behavior. Third, creative personality partially mediated between efficacy and creative teaching behaviors. As the childcare field continues to emphasize creative teaching behaviors, it must create an environment where childcare teachers can improve their efficacy and develop their creative personalities. Furthermore, educational programs should encourage teachers to enhance their efficacy and express their creative personalities.
Il formative assessment nelle convinzioni e nelle pratiche degli insegnanti. Analisi secondarie da una indagine sui docenti di scuola media di due regioni italiane
Authors: Ciani Andrea , Pasolini Elia , Vannini Ira
Published: December 2021

All around the world, several scholars are reflecting on the role of the so-called «teacher variable» for orienting changes towards quality and equity in the education. In this field, it is stressed the importance of the relationship between teachers’ beliefs practices. Following this tradition, this paper aims to prove the existence of a relationship between democratic beliefs of the teachers and their adoption of formative assessment (FA) practices. Secondary analyses are conducted on data collected during a study, which involved a sample of more than a thousand middle school teachers. In this work we focused on data from two Italian regions: Emilia-Romagna and Piemonte. These data are re-analyzed to prove the relationship between the declaration on the adoption of FA practices and three beliefs variables, namely teachers’ beliefs on the FA, on the existence of natural gifts of students, and on the utility and dynamicity of instructional design. Personal, professional, and experiential variables are included to prove the existence of significant differences. The results suggest that the teachers who adopt FA practices more often and who present more democratic beliefs are: women, experienced teachers, those who teach literature or scientific disciplines, and those who are specialized in special needs teaching. Multivariate regression analysis, finally, confirm the relationship between the adoption of FA practices and positive beliefs towards the formative assessment and instructional design.
Validazione di uno strumento per valutare la partecipazione alle attività extracurriculari in area STEM. Il questionario Science Activities Evaluation Engagement (SAEE)
Authors: Testa Italo , Costanzo Giovanni , Parlati Alessio , Tricò Francesca
Published: December 2021

In this study, we present a new questionnaire, the Science Activities Evaluation Engagement (SAEE) instrument, for the evaluation of the students’ engagement in STEM oriented extra-curricular activities. The questionnaire was administered to about 1000 secondary school students who participated in the activities of the Piano Nazionale Lauree Scientifiche in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Through an exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, it was possible to validate a four-factor structure of the instrument: Satisfaction with the followed activities; Utility of the activities; Difficulties in following the activities; Involvement of close people. The obtained factor structure shows a good model fit, with each of the obtained scales showing an excellent reliability. Criterion validity was established through the academic motivation scale. The proposed instrument shows also an adequate convergent validity and a sufficient discriminant validity. Implications of the study for the evaluation of Third Mission activities of the Italian universities are also briefly discussed.
Using Mobile Tools to Support Meaningful Work-based Learning in Vocational Education
Authors: Vuojärvi Hanna , Eriksson Miikka
Published: December 2021

This case study focused on meaningful work-based learning (WBL) and the pedagogical use of mobile information and communication technologies (ICTs) in vocational tourism education. The aim was to reveal how teaching/tutoring and learning are realized and how the use of smartphones supports the realization of meaningful learning characteristics during WBL periods in highly versatile environments. Within a design-based research framework, the data was collected through learning journals written by students and qualitative interviews. The results of thematic analysis were used to develop a practice-oriented pedagogical model for meaningful WBL. The model visualizes the roles of students, teachers, and companies involved in WBL, the meaningful learning characteristics that can be amplified through the use of mobile ICTs, and the outcomes for each stakeholder. The model suggests structuring WBL through four negotiations involving a student, a teacher, and a company to assure that each student has clearly formulated learning goals and possibilities to pursue those goals regardless of the mobility of their work or facilities during their WBL period.
Learning by using digital media in and out of school
Authors: Miño-Puigcercós Raquel , Sancho-Gil Juana M.
Published: December 2021

The gap between the compulsory secondary school, students’ daily experiences and interests and social demands seems to have significantly increased. Nowadays disaffection and disengagement with school, low-attainment and early school leaving are found not only in disadvantaged students but also practically among all social groups across countries. The traditional conception of learning prevailing in most schools does not seem able to meet the educational needs both of young people and society. Living and learning in a digital and globalized world implies considerable challenges for schooling, and these are reviewed in this paper.We build on the outcomes of an ethnographic case about young people learning inside and outside school using different media. First, we discuss the challenges posed by contemporary compulsory secondary education while also establishing the scope of our research. Then we explore the transitions of students between inside and outside school and the characteristics of a learning process in which switching constantly between online and offline environments is a given. Finally, we make suggestions, which can be taken into account by schools seeking to offer students more meaningful and authentic learning experiences.
Sharing
Authors: Nordkvelle Yngve
Published: December 2021

Seminar.Net is approaching its 10th anniversary. The journal continues to practise a free and open access policy of no costs for contributors. We are still committed to publishing research articles to promote studies on the subject of media in education media in education. We operate in a rapidly changing environment of academic publishing. While conventional newspapers are forced to close and are recreated as online newspapers, academic publishing houses appear to survive such threats of extinction. Traditional media are seeking alternative sources to finance their activities. Academic publishing has quite rightly been accused of squeezing higher education institutions with extortionate costs for journal subscriptions. While the profits gained by the publishing houses have been enormous the costs of doing much editorial work, as well as all peer-reviewing have been graciously covered by higher institution staff without incurring expenses. Open Access publishing has gained much attention lately, and is a great deal more common now than it was in 2005, when Seminar.Net was launched. There are a number of hybrid publishing formats offered to authors, with and without a price tag forwarded to the author. For example, the Norwegian Research Council has recently established a foundation for academic writers who face the challenge of financing publication of an article. All editorial work, including reviewing, of Seminar.net is done in our free time. Copy-editing and language checks are carried out by experts, as well as the technical processing of posting videos and texts on the website. We thank you all for doing this at a reasonable price and with such enthusiastic commitment. This is our way of sharing!The subject of sharing is at the heart of the majority of the papers in the current issue, the first four of which were presented at a conference at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 2013. The last paper is an investigation into the matter of how some elderly members of the public resist and refrain from using the Internet.
Education for All Revisited: On Concepts of Sharing in the Open Educational Resources (OER) Movement
Authors: Hug Theo
Published: December 2021

Relationships between the private and public sphere in education have been discussed repeatedly and in various ways. However, the role of media and media dynamics is widely underestimated in this context. It is only recently, since the digital turn, that the focus of the debates has changed. In the past few years, manifold initiatives have aimed at opening up education on various levels using digital communications technologies and Creative Commons licenses. Additionally, massive open online courses (moocs) have been developed. Today, OER (Open Educational Resources) is used widely as an umbrella term for free content creation initiatives: OER Commons (http://www.oercommons.org/), Open Courseware (OCW), OER repositories, OCW search facilities, University OCW initiatives, and related activities. Shared resource sites such as Connexions (http://cnx.org), WikiEducator (http://wikieducator.org), and Curriki (www.curriki.org) have an increasing number of visitors and contributors.On one hand, the motif of ‘education for all’ is once again appearing in related debates and practices. On the other hand, notions of sharing play a crucial role in open content and open education strategies. This purpose of this paper isthreefold: It starts with an outline of selected understandings of sharing in educational contexts; it then addresses their relevance for OER development through examining contrasting and relational conceptual dimensions. Lastly, the contribution aims to sketch different forms of sharing related to media forms.
Interactive whiteboards as artefacts to support dialogic learning spaces in primary schools
Authors: Nes Kari , Wikan Gerd
Published: December 2021

The interactive whiteboard (IWB) is a technical digital medium for multiple forms of interaction - technical, physical and conceptual. It is a point of departure for this article that the IWB has the potential to support learning, given that the teacher has a dialogic teaching style. Our research is embedded in a social constructive learning philosophy implying that interaction between learners as well as learners and teacher will lead to increased insights for everyone. Dialogue is seen as a characteristic of education, but not all learner talks are dialogic; there are different types of pupil conversations - competitive, cumulative or exploratory. It is in particular the exploratory talk that has the ability to increase learning through interthinking and thus create a dialogic learning space. The article reports findings from a study of 7 primary school teachers and their use of the interactive board. The main findings are that they do not use the full potential that the IWB gives to support collaborative learning. We discuss what teachers need in order to develop their practices to exploit the potential of the IWB for creating a supportive dialogic learning space.
The nature and limits of interactive communication: A philosophical analysis
Authors: Nordby Halvor
Published: December 2021

In many modern study programs, teachers and students communicate via internet and other interactive communicative channels. What is the essential nature of this communication? How does interactive communication differ from ordinary face-to-face communication in the most fundamental sense? The article uses conceptual analysis as a philosophical method to explore the intrinsic nature of the concept interactive communication. The aim of this method is to develop a concept definition that matches shared linguistic beliefs about informative examples from internet based communication and information exchange that is central in electronic teaching courses. The article examines several concept definitions and argues in favor of a philosophical information processing analysis of interactive communication. The significance of this analysis has two dimensions. First, it can give teachers and others who are involved in interactive communication a better understanding of the essential differences between interactive and face-to-face communication. Second, the analysis can stimulate pedagogical and critical reflection on the nature and limits of internet based communication and electronic teaching tools.
Alternative Online Evaluation in a Blended Learning Environment
Authors: Staupe Arvid
Published: December 2021

This article describes testing of the use of alternative exam/evaluation and the use of an ICT learning environment at the Department of Computer and Information Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (IDI/NTNU). The use of this particular learning environment is described in a previous article (Staupe, 2010). Thus, this article particularly describes the part which deals with the testing of alternative exam/evaluation formats.  The students could choose between three different formats. 1) A 100% traditional exam with optional exercise reports. The exercises were looked over and commented on by those who had chosen the second alternative (13%). 2) A 50% traditional exam, 50% exercise work (10%). 3) Exercise work counted for 100% (77%). In total, 129 students participated.
Making sense with multimedia: A text theoretical study of a digital format integrating writing and video
Authors: Engebretsen Martin
Published: December 2021

Digital text formats that allow a close interaction between writing and video represent new possibilities and challenges for the communication of educational content. What are the premises for functional and appropriate communication through web-based, multimedial text formats?This article explores the digital writing-video format from a structural, theoretical perspective. To begin with, the two media’s respective characteristics are discussed and compared as carriers of complex signs. Thereafter, the focus is upon how writing and video elements can be accommodated to web media. Finally, the article discusses the conditions for optimal co-ordination and interaction between the two media types within the framework of an integrated design. A design example is presented.
Better together: building a new support site for bachelor's students in nursing
Authors: Øvern Karen Marie , Kilvik Astrid
Published: December 2021

This study consists of two separate, but overlapping cases. As a consequence of a merger of four different higher education institutions in Norway, the [University name] got several nursing study programmes in different campuses. To get a more formal collaboration started, three university libraries decided to start a joint project. Case one was to build a product or service specifically designed for nursing students. Case two was to form a community of practice between librarians at the three libraries supporting these study programmes. Findings show that collaboration between different campus libraries is not always easy, even with online collaboration tools, but that a community of practice can be rewarding and an efficient way to collaborate. E-learning has been a way to serve both off-campus and campus students alike, and findings also show that building a product specifically designed for one user group can be exiting and worth the effort. The many mergers in higher education means that many librarians in Norway has become a part of much bigger units, and finding common ground, good collaboration methods and joint services to user groups are important issues.
Zoledronic acid promotes osteoclasts ferroptosis by inhibiting FBXO9-mediated p53 ubiquitination and degradation
Authors: Qu Xingzhou , Sun Zhaoqi , Wang Yang , Ong Hui Shan
Published: December 2021

Bisphosphonates (BPs)-related osteonecrosis of jaw (BRONJ) is a severe complication of the long-term administration of BPs. The development of BRONJ is associated with the cell death of osteoclasts, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In the current study, the role of Zoledronic acid (ZA), a kind of bisphosphonates, in suppressing the growth of osteoclasts was investigated and its underlying mechanism was explored. The role of ZA in regulating osteoclasts function was evaluated in the RANKL-induced cell model. Cell viability was assessed by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and fluorescein diacetate (FDA)-staining. We confirmed that ZA treatment suppressed cell viability of osteoclasts. Furthermore, ZA treatment led to osteoclasts death by facilitating osteoclasts ferroptosis, as evidenced by increased Fe2+, ROS, and malonyldialdehyde (MDA) level, and decreased glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and glutathione (GSH) level. Next, the gene expression profiles of alendronate- and risedronate-treated osteoclasts were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset, and 18 differentially expressed genes were identified using venn diagram analysis. Among these 18 genes, the expression of F-box protein 9 (FBXO9) was inhibited by ZA treatment. Knockdown of FBXO9 resulted in osteoclasts ferroptosis. More important, FBXO9 overexpression repressed the effect of ZA on regulating osteoclasts ferroptosis. Mechanistically, FBXO9 interacted with p53 and decreased the protein stability of p53. Collectively, our study showed that ZA induced osteoclast cells ferroptosis by triggering FBXO9-mediated p53 ubiquitination and degradation.
Ammonia-oxidizing bacterial communities are affected by nitrogen fertilization and grass species in native C4 grassland soils
Authors: Hu Jialin , Richwine Jonathan D. , Keyser Patrick D. , Li Lidong , Yao Fei , Jagadamma Sindhu , DeBruyn Jennifer M.
Published: December 2021

Background

Fertilizer addition can contribute to nitrogen (N) losses from soil by affecting microbial populations responsible for nitrification. However, the effects of N fertilization on ammonia oxidizing bacteria under C4 perennial grasses in nutrient-poor grasslands are not well studied.

Methods

In this study, a field experiment was used to assess the effects of N fertilization rate (0, 67, and 202 kg N ha−1) and grass species (switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) and big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii)) on ammonia-oxidizing bacterial (AOB) communities in C4 grassland soils using quantitative PCR, quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, and high-throughput amplicon sequencing of amoA genes.

Results

Nitrosospira were dominant AOB in the C4 grassland soil throughout the growing season. N fertilization rate had a stronger influence on AOB community composition than C4 grass species. Elevated N fertilizer application increased the abundance, activity, and alpha-diversity of AOB communities as well as nitrification potential, nitrous oxide (N2O) emission and soil acidity. The abundance and species richness of AOB were higher under switchgrass compared to big bluestem. Soil pH, nitrate, nitrification potential, and N2O emission were significantly related to the variability in AOB community structures (p < 0.05).
Informed Consent for Surgical Care in East Africa
Authors: Wismayer Richard
Published: December 2021

In the developed world one of the pillars of ethical conduct in surgical practise is informed surgical consent. In low income developing countries only a few researchers have explored the practise of surgical consent pre-operatively. During the informed consent process, the patient has a right to make an autonomous and independent decision about his/her surgical treatment after having been provided the necessary information by the surgeon caring for the patient. Patient autonomy and independent decision-making is recommended by the World Medical Association (WMA) Declaration of Lisbon. Family and cultural background, education, religion and socioeconomic status may all influence informed consent in surgical practise. In East Africa, few studies have reviewed consent practises among surgeons to document best surgical practise and identify areas that need improvement in the East African setting. This review reports the author’s personal experience of the practise of surgical consent among surgeons in Uganda and reviews the specific challenges faced in East Africa. In Uganda, the administration and documentation of informed consent is still inadequate. Better medical ethics education and proper communication skills training in medical schools needs to be addressed. Refresher courses on medical ethics and communication skills may also be necessary for fully trained surgeons.
Dexmedetomidine, Ketamine and Lidocaine Infusion for Prevention of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in Laparoscopic Gynecological Surgery: Randomized Trial
Authors: Moustafa Aya Ibrahim , Afandy Mohamed Elsayed , Demairy Hesham Mohamed Marouf El , Ezz Hoda Alsaid Ahmed
Published: December 2021

Background: The intraoperative use of large bolus doses or continuous infusions of potent opioids may be associated with increased analgesic consumption postoperatively. In ambulatory surgery, opioid related side effects, such as postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), prolonged sedation, ileus and urinary retention may delay recovery and discharge or cause unanticipated hospital readmission. The aim was to evaluate the effect of opioid sparing technique via infusion of dexmedetomidine, ketamine and lidocaine on post-operative nausea and vomiting in laparoscopic gynecological surgery.

Methods: A total of 80 patients were randomly allocated into 2 groups, 40 patients each. Control group (group c) received fentanyl while, Study group (group S) received infusion of a mixture of dexmedetomidine, ketamine and lidocaine. The PONV impact scale, intraoperative consumption of isoflurane and fentanyl and post operative 24 hr. morphine consumption were measured.

Results: 18 (45%) patients of control group experienced PONV versus 7 (17.5%) patients of study group and it was clinically significant. Clinically significant vomiting was observed in10 (25%) patients of control group and 1 (2.5%) patient of study group. There was a marked reduction in fentanyl, isoflurane and 24 hours’ morphine consumption in group S compared to group C. 

Conclusion: Opioid sparing anesthesia with dexmedetomidine, ketamine and lidocaine infusion are superior to fentanyl for prevention of post-operative nausea and vomiting and reduction of isoflurane and, fentanyl consumption and provides better patient satisfaction in laparoscopic gynecological surgery.
Development and Quality Evaluation of Date Seed Powder Incorporated Cookies
Authors: Sriharsha CH. , Swamy R. , Padmavathi T. V. N.
Published: December 2021

Aims: To incorporate date seed powder in the preparation of cookies and to perform the quality evaluation of the cookies.

Study Design: Experimental design.

Place and Duration of Study: College of Food Science and Technology, PJTS Agricultural University, Rudrur, from March 2021 to August 2021.

Methodology: The cookies was prepared by formulating trials. For test samples the refined wheat flour was replaced with date seed powder in different proportions. Sensory evaluation was performed to know the acceptability of the cookies. Quality evaluation was performed for the control sample and the most accepted cookies.

Results: Results of sensory evaluation showed that 12% date seed powder incorporated cookies was highly acceptable with a score of overall acceptability 8.3. Carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber content of the standardized cookies was found to be 60.57%, 5.78%, 22%, 5.26% respectively. The physical parameters like diameter, thickness and spread ratio increased with supplementation of date seed powder.

Conclusion: Date seed powder rather discarding as waste; can be used to develop innovative products. Date seed powder can be used to develop products with functional and nutraceutical use.
In-silico ADME and Docking-based Virtual Screening Study Aiming at the Sigma-Covalent Inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 RdRp
Authors: Reddy G. Koteswara , Reddy V. Nikhil , Phavethra S. , Bhavani A. , Vineeth A. J. , Reddy A. V. V. Satish
Published: December 2021

The objectives of the study were to examine the virtual screening of the compounds and sigma-covalent inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 RdRp (RNA-Dependent RNA-Polymerase), which is conserved and is an essential enzyme for RNA transcription and replication of this virus. In this study, we collected around 1225 similar compounds of Penciclovir and Acyclovir inhibitors from PubChem and predicted ADME (Adsorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion) molecular descriptors using Swiss-ADME server. Virtually screened 24/1225 compounds based on drug-likeliness five rules (Lipinski, Ghose, Veber, Egan, and Muegge) and lead-likeliness properties. Further 10/24 compounds screened, based on high binding affinity and RMSD<3.5Å against RdRp structure using PyRx docking software. Furthermore, the molecular interactions of 10 compounds studied using Discovery studio software and finally screened five PubChem compounds 57201841, 135408972, 54552823, 135409422 and 467850, based on bioactivity score using Molinsipiration cheminformatics software. All these five compounds showed up anti-SARS CoV-2 activity, though further in-vitro studies are required.