Research Title: Oxymorons and Undergraduates' Repertoire in Literature: Exploring the Nexus

Author: Areen Ghazi Khalifeh, Published Year: 2024

Argentinian Journal of Applied Linguistics, 12

Faculty: Arts

Abstract: This study probed into figurative speech and its rhetorical effects with a particular focus on oxymorons which have often been conflated with paradoxes. Besides clarifying the difference between the two, an analysis of the academic records of fifty undergraduates and a test of oxymorons were a point of departure to measure their familiarity with such figurative devices. Using the Pearson correlation test, the participants' oxymoron test scores were correlated with their overall scores on the achievement tests of seven literature courses in the academic records. Findings showed a positive correlation coefficient (r=.251), yet it is considerably weak (sig.=079 at α=0.01). Further evidence on the magnitude of the phenomenon was solicited from five faculty members through a focus group discussion. The faculty substantiated the correlational findings, as they hold a view that oxymorons, tied with other linguistic devices, contribute to learners' repertoire in literature and language in general.

Keywords: onceptual metaphor, metaphoric competence, oxymoron, rhetorical effect

Research Title: A Secure Blockchain-Based Vehicular Collision Avoidance Protocol: Detecting and Preventing Blackhole Attacks

Author: Maram Bani Younes, Published Year: 2024

Computer Systems Science and Engineering, 120

Faculty: Information Technology

Abstract: This work aims to examine the vulnerabilities and threats in the applications of intelligent transport systems, especially collision avoidance protocols. It focuses on achieving the availability of network communication among traveling vehicles. Finally, it aims to find a secure solution to prevent blackhole attacks on vehicular network communications. The proposed solution relies on authenticating vehicles by joining a blockchain network. This technology provides identification information and receives cryptography keys. Moreover, the ad hoc on-demand distance vector (AODV) protocol is used for route discovery and ensuring reliable node communication. The system activates an adaptive mode for monitoring communications and continually adjusts trust scores based on packet delivery performance. From the experimental study, we can infer that the proposed protocol has successfully detected and prevented blackhole attacks for different numbers of simulated vehicles and at different traveling speeds. This reduces accident rates by 60% and increases the packet delivery ratio and the throughput of the connecting network by 40% and 20%, respectively. However, extra overheads in delay and memory are required to create and initialize the blockchain network.

Keywords: Vehicular networks; blockchain; collision avoidance; protocol design; security mechanisms

Research Title: An Enhanced Model for Detecting and Classifying Emergency Vehicles Using a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN)

Author: Maram Bani Younes, Published Year: 2024

vehicles, 6

Faculty: Information Technology

Abstract: The rise in autonomous vehicles further impacts road networks and driving conditions over the road networks. Cameras and sensors allow these vehicles to gather the characteristics of their surrounding traffic. One crucial factor in this environment is the appearance of emergency vehicles, which require special rules and priorities. Machine learning and deep learning techniques are used to develop intelligent models for detecting emergency vehicles from images. Vehicles use this model to analyze regularly captured road environment photos, requiring swift actions for safety on road networks. In this work, we mainly developed a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) model that generates new emergency vehicles. This is to introduce a comprehensive expanded dataset that assists emergency vehicles detection and classification processes. Then, using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), we constructed a vehicle detection model demonstrating satisfactory performance in identifying emergency vehicles. The detection model yielded an accuracy of 90.9% using the newly generated dataset. To ensure the reliability of the dataset, we employed 10-fold cross-validation, achieving accuracy exceeding 87%. Our work highlights the significance of accurate datasets in developing intelligent models for emergency vehicle detection. Finally, we validated the accuracy of our model using an external dataset. We compared our proposed model’s performance against four other online models, all evaluated using the same external dataset. Our proposed model achieved an accuracy of 85% on the external dataset.

Keywords: autonomous vehicle; machine learning; emergency vehicle; GANs; CNN; object detection

Research Title: Effect of using normal concrete or recycled concrete layer on behavior of repaired projectile bullet damaged reinforced concrete beams

Author: Ala Taleb Obaidat, Published Year: 2024

Structural concrete, 25/5

Faculty: Engineering and Technology

Abstract: This study utilized experimental research to investigate the efficiency of using normal aggregate concrete (NAC) or recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) as a new concrete layer for repairing projectile bullet damage to strengthening reinforced concrete (RC) beams. This study comprised the construction and testing of eight RC beams made of RAC and NAC. They are initially subjected to projectile bullets and after that tested with flexure load to evaluate the effect of using RAC and NAC that was investigated. The findings of test results demonstrate that the repaired specimens with RAC or NAC experienced a higher load capacity than the damaged control specimens. As such, this approach could potentially use to restore RAC or NAC beams were previously damaged by projectile bullets. In addition, the findings of this research indicate that the load capacity of the damaged RC beams that were previously repaired using the NAC layer was higher than the load capacity of the damaged RC beams that were repaired using the RAC layer. The load capacity enhanced significantly of (106%–118%) and (104%–113%), respectively, when NAC and RAC are utilized in repairs. Therefore, using either NAC or RAC concrete is more economical, environmentally friendly, and efficient than demolishing.

Keywords: Reinforced concrete beam, Strengthening, NSM-CFRP rope

Research Title: Investigating the value of medication management review for asthma patients: A randomized controlled study.

Author: Tahani Tawfiq M. Al-Bahnasi, Published Year: 2024

Faculty: Pharmacy

Abstract: Background: Asthma remains a major worldwide challenge, which threatens health and economies. The vast majority of asthmatics continue to experience uncontrolled asthma; thus, the need for enhancing patients’ awareness, targeting the behavior of both physicians and patients to reach optimal medications’ use is arising. Medication management review (MMR) service can be delivered by pharmacists to help resolve this dilemma. Aims: To assess the clinical and humanistic outcomes of MMR service for asthmatic patients in Jordan. Via this service, the pharmacist identifies treatment related problems (TRPs) and resolves them either directly or by sending the physician a letter with recommendations. Methods: A prospective randomized single blinded intervention-control study was conducted over 15 months, in outpatient clinics of public hospitals in Jordan. Asthmatics were recruited and randomized into intervention and control groups. MMR service was delivered for all patients by the researcher to identify patients’ TRPs based on updated guidelines. Recommendations were sent to intervention patients’ physician for resolution. Pharmacist level recommendations were resolved by pharmacist for the intervention patients. All patients were reassessed at three months. Results: Patients with asthma (n=152) were recruited, and 959 TRPs were identified at baseline with no significant differences between both groups. A significant decrease in TRPs was noticed for the intervention group at follow-up, going down from 6.540±1.685 at baseline to 2.800±0.924 TRP per patient at follow-up (p< 0.001). Regarding TRPs at three-month follow-up, a significant difference (intervention group: 2.800±0.924, control group: 5.920±1.679 control, p< 0.001). Conclusions: MMR service, which was delivered to asthma patients for the first time in Jordan proved successful in identifying and resolving TRPs for asthma patients. Such outcomes are beneficial in improving asthma control for asthma patients in Jordan.

Keywords: Jordan, medication management review, asthma control, treatment related problems, pharmacist’s educational intervention, inhaler technique

Research Title: Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding medication splitting and crushing among the general public in Jordan: a cross-sectional study

Author: Mohammad Bayan, Published Year: 2024

BMJ Open, 14

Faculty: Pharmacy

Abstract: Background Splitting or crushing medications are used for dosage administration when a certain dose is not easily accessible. Understanding the splitting or crushing of medications is essential to guarantee safe medication administration since inappropriate handling might impact therapeutic efficacy, safety and patient outcomes. Objectives This study intends to examine the practices, attitudes and knowledge of the Jordanian population regarding the splitting/crushing of medications. Study design and setting This is a cross-sectional survey study conducted in Jordan between November 2022 and March 2023. The questionnaire tool was adapted from previous literature, and binary logistic regression analysis was used, to identify the predictors of participants’ knowledge concerning medication splitting/crushing. Participants A total of 1259 participants from the general public were involved, without restrictions on gender or age. Results Around 22.2% of participants confirmed that tablet splitting/crushing is a useful way to reduce medication costs. 67.0% reported that they are not sure whether tablets are suitable for splitting/crushing/crushing. 75.8% reported that they refer to package leaflet information to check whether tablets are suitable for splitting/crushing. 84.8% correctly believed that scored tablets can be split, while unscored tablets cannot. 72.0% identified correctly that not all types of tablets and capsules can be split/crushed or dissolved. The mean knowledge score of study participants was 2.7 (SD: 1.5) out of 6, which is equal to 45% of the maximum attainable score and reflects a weak level of knowledge about tablet crushing. Those who hold a bachelor’s degree and have an income level of JD500–JD1000 (which is equal to US$715–US$1428) were more likely to have knowledge about tablet crushing. Around 39.2% of the participants reported that they had split or crushed tablets to reach their desired dose, of which the vast majority (82.9%) were using scored tablets. Conclusion Understanding of tablet-splitting and crushing techniques ought to be enhanced while encouraging prescribing practices that stress safety and well-informed decision-making. Patients should actively seek reliable sources of information, have an awareness of which tablets can be safely divided and actively engage with healthcare experts to receive appropriate guidance.

Keywords: Attitude; Crushing; Jordan; Knowledge; Medication; Oral dosage forms; Practices; Splitting

Research Title: Targeting nerve growth factor for pain relief: pros and cons

Author: Raida W. Khalil, Published Year: 2024

Korean J Pain, 37

Faculty: Science

Abstract: Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a neurotrophic protein that has crucial roles in survival, growth and differentiation. It is expressed in neuronal and non-neuronal tissues. NGF exerts its effects via two types of receptors including the high affinity receptor, tropomyosin receptor kinase A and the low affinity receptor p75 neurotrophin receptor highlighting the complex signaling pathways that underlie the roles of NGF. In pain perception and transmission, multiple studies shed light on the effects of NGF on different types of pain including inflammatory, neuropathic, cancer and visceral pain. Also, the binding of NGF to its receptors increases the availability of many nociceptive receptors such as transient receptor potential vanilloid 1, transient receptor potential ankyrin 1, N-methyl-D-aspartic acid, and P2X purinoceptor 3 as well as nociceptive transmitters such as substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide. The role of NGF in pain has been documented in pre-clinical and clinical studies. This review aims to shed light on the role of NGF and its signaling in different types of pain

Keywords: Keywords: Acute Disease, Chronic Disease, Inflammation, Low Back Pain, Musculoskeletal, Neoplasms, Nerve Growth Factor, Neuropathic Pain, Orofacial Pain, Osteoarthritis, Pain

Research Title: Cardiometabolic Morbidity (Obesity and Hypertension) in PTSD: A Preliminary Investigation of the Validity of Two Structures of the Impact of Event Scale-Revised

Author: Maha Mohammed Wahbi Atout, Published Year: 2024

Journal of Clinical Medicine , 13

Faculty: Nursing

Abstract: Abstract: Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or specific PTSD symptoms may evoke maladaptive behaviors (e.g., compulsive buying, disordered eating, and an unhealthy lifestyle), resulting in adverse cardiometabolic events (e.g., hypertension and obesity), which may implicate the treatment of this complex condition. The diagnostic criteria for PTSD have lately expanded beyond the three common symptoms (intrusion, avoidance, and hyperarousal). Including additional symptoms such as emotional numbing, sleep disturbance, and irritability strengthens the representation of the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), suggesting that models with four, five, or six dimensions better capture its structure compared to the original three-dimensional model. Methods: Using a convenience sample of 58 Russian dental healthcare workers (HCWs: mean age = 44.1 ± 12.2 years, 82.8?males), this instrumental study examined the convergent, concurrent, and criterion validity of two IES-R structures: IES-R3 and IES-R6. Results: Exploratory factor analysis uncovered five factors, which explained 76.0% of the variance in the IES-R. Subscales of the IES-R3 and the IES-R6 expressed good internal consistency (coefficient alpha range = 0.69–0.88), high convergent validity (item total correlations r range = 0.39–0.81, and correlations with the IES-R’s total score r range = 0.62–0.92), excellent concurrent validity through strong correlations with the PTSD Symptom Scale-Self Report (PSS-SR: r range = 0.42–0.69), while their criterion validity was indicated by moderate-to-low correlations with high body mass index (BMI: r range = 0.12–0.39) and the diagnosis of hypertension (r range = 0.12–0.30). In the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, all IES-R models were perfectly associated with the PSS-SR (all areas under the curve (AUCs) > 0.9, p values < 0.001). The IES-R, both hyperarousal subscales, and the IES-R3 intrusion J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13, 6045. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13206045 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/jcm J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13, 6045 2 of 22 subscale were significantly associated with high BMI. Both avoidance subscales and the IES-R3 intrusion subscale, not the IES-R, were significantly associated with hypertension. In the two-step cluster analysis, five sets of all trauma variables (IES-R3/IES-R6, PSS-SR) classified the participants into two clusters according to their BMI (normal weight/low BMI vs. overweight/obese). Meanwhile, only the IES-R, PSS-SR, and IES-R3 dimensions successfully classified participants as having either normal blood pressure or hypertension. Participants in the overweight/obese and hypertensive clusters displayed considerably higher levels of most trauma symptoms. Input variables with the highest predictor importance in the cluster analysis were those variables expressing significant associations in correlations and ROC analyses. However, neither IES-R3 nor IES-R6 contributed to BMI or hypertension either directly or indirectly in the path analysis. Meanwhile, age significantly predicted both health conditions and current smoking. Irritability and numbing were the only IES-R dimensions that significantly contributed to current smoking. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the need for assessing the way through which various PTSD symptoms may implicate cardiometabolic dysfunctions and their risk factors (e.g., smoking and the intake of unhealthy foods) as well as the application of targeted dietary and exercise interventions to lower physical morbidity in PTSD patients. However, the internal and external validity of our tests may be questionable due to the low power of our sample size. Replicating the study in larger samples, which comprise different physical and mental conditions from heterogenous cultural contexts, is pivotal to validate the results (e.g., in specific groups, such as those with confirmed traumatic exposure and comorbid mood dysfunction).

Keywords: impact of event scale-revised/IES-R/posttraumatic stress disorder/PTSD; cutoff score/ cutoff point; three factors/six factors/dimensions; receiver operator curve (ROC); cardiovascular disorders/CVDs/cardiometabolic*/hypertension; diet*/high-sugar/high fat; obesity/high body mass index/metabolic dysfunction; sleep disturbance/irritability/emotional numbing; smoking/ behavioral risk factors; dental healthcare workers

Research Title: The influence of educators' first impression of learners on nursing education in Jordan: Students' and faculties' perspectives

Author: Maha Mohammed Wahbi Atout, Published Year: 2024

Teaching and learning in Nursing , 19

Faculty: Nursing

Abstract: Objective: This study investigated the impacts of first impressions on nursing education from the perspective of the educator and the student. Method: A qualitative descriptive approach design was adopted. The study included faculty members and nursing students who were in their second, third, or fourth years. Semi-structured interviews and focus groups were performed for data collection. Findings: Nineteen individual interviews were conducted with fifteen nursing students and four faculty members, and three focus groups were performed with nursing students. The data analysis revealed the following themes: (1) the effects of first impression, both positive and negative; (2) the consequences of these impressions, including their effects on student grades and stereotyping; and (3) exaggerators to first impression, wherein the same instructor teaches different classes. Conclusion: There is a need to raise the faculty’s awareness about the influence of stereotyping and the impressions that they develop about their students and how it affects them.

Keywords: Faculty, First impression, Influence, Outcomes Students

Research Title: The Design of a PV System of a Multi-Location Large Consumer: A Case Study from Al-Balqa Applied University

Author: Akram Mohammed Al-mahrouk, Published Year: 2024

Sustainability, 16

Faculty: Engineering and Technology

Abstract: This research applies the suggested photovoltaic solar system design to Jordan’s Al-Balqa Applied University. Twelve of the twenty-four college buildings are located on the main campus, while the remaining twelve remote colleges are dispersed throughout Jordan’s many geographic locations, ranging from the far north to the far south. Azimuth angle, irradiation effect, building size, location, power consumption, and student population are all taken into account in the suggested design. Additionally, in-site generation and remote-wheeling generation are two types of solar system installation designs that are taken into consideration. A method for calculating the optimal location of remote-wheeling generation is proposed based on the centroid mass theory. The proposed method is applied in four scenarios. The first three scenarios are single-point, two-point, and three-point centroid locations. The fourth scenario is based on three single points, considering the power distribution regions in Jordan, which cover three regions. The results of the four scenarios will be discussed and demonstrated along with a comprehensive comparison between in-site generation, single-centroid point remote-wheeling generation, and three-centroid-point remote-wheeling generation.

Keywords: PV solar cell energy management; renewable energy design