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Books (Are Not Like People): A Postdigital Fable
No full textWhat are books? In 2054, where reading and writing have been banned, a scholar in a dystopian academy known as University V might legitimately pose such a question. This article uses speculative fiction as a form of narrative enquiry to explore the socio-materiality of the iconic educational artefact of the textbook. It gives an empirical account of socio-material practices of textbook use (and non-use) gathered from a series of interviews with online distance education students. We analyse these interviews via speculative fiction. We engage in a sense-making activity of the student testimony by narrating their story, via a scholar looking back at our times from a post-literature future. We seek to contribute to a relative dearth of future studies that use real student data. We give an example of how speculative fiction may be used as a form of research method to analyse and interpret such data. In so doing, we seek to cast a light on current educational practices, to show how books and people are entangled. As people, objects and spaces of education intertwine, they call our attention to the interplay of form and function. They decentre the human actor. We attempt to show how form legitimates certain types of knowledge, certain people, indeed people themselves from other non-human actors. We conclude that knowledge is not disembodied, is not stable and is not locked up in books. In our final analysis, we conclude what may seem obviously true, that books are not like people
The current state of OER in Europe: going beyond altruism. ENCORE+ OER Policy and strategy position paper No. 1
No full textIn summary, this paper challenges the sector to go beyond altruism and endorses the view that “...policy will be the lever by which open practice can become sustainable and mainstream” (Weller, 2014, p.201). The ENCORE+ project seeks to give “voice” to more stakeholders to support the development of OER institutional strategies in both academia and business contexts in order to promote their mainstreaming and a strong
European OER ecosystem
Neural Turn-Taking Models for Spoken Dialogue Systems
No full textIn order to simulate naturalistic turn-taking behaviours, such as fast-turn switches, intentional overlap, backchanneling, and barge-in, spoken dialogue systems (SDSs) will need to have computational models of turn-taking that are both predictive and incremental. They will need to be predictive in the sense that they predict future user turn-taking behaviours rather than respond to behaviours that have already occurred, as is typically done in traditional endpointing-based systems. In the projection theory of Sacks et al. (1974) they proposed that humans are capable of anticipating turn endings before they occur. We argue that SDSs which aim to converse in a human-like manner should be capable of anticipating user behaviours as well. To make decisions based on these predictions, the system must process information incrementally, while the user is still speaking.
In this thesis we develop recurrent neural network (RNN) based models of turn-taking that are both predictive and incremental. Continuous turn-taking (CTT) models as proposed by Skantze (2017) were taken as a starting point. We investigated these models and proposed a number of improvements and extensions. First, we performed an analysis of input features for CTT models, gained insights into the utility of different varieties of features, and proposed optimal sets. We then proposed architectural improvements to the original CTT model in the form of a multiscale RNN architecture that allows features to be processed at an independent rate. We then designed a control process based on partially observable Markov decision processes (POMDPs) that is able to employ the predictive nature of our RNN models to make responsive turn-taking decisions.
Our investigations led to the development of a different variety of model that can be used for generating naturalistic response timings using features from both the user\u27s turn and the system turn. Our response timing networks (RTNets) are motivated by the observation that response timings carry communicative importance, and that listeners associate different timings with different types of responses. RTNets are still both predictive and incremental, but they differ from CTT models in many other aspects, such as their objective functions and architectures. We propose that these models address an overlooked aspect of SDS response generation that can increase the realism of SDS interactions
Novel Methods for the Analysis and Assessment of Spatial Audio
No full textThis thesis is concerned with aspects of our perception of spatial audio and with novel technology used to record, analyse and present it. The field of spatial audio has become increasingly prevalent with mediums such as virtual reality and augmented reality becoming readily available to anyone with a smart phone. The sense of immersion when experiencing a virtual environment is not only reliant on visuals but also on audio with an accurate portrayal of an auditory scene crucial to creating a sense of realism. The work presented in this thesis focuses on the analysis of spatial audio including ambisonic and binaural signals. Fundamentally, this research is focused on localization with machine learning tools used to evaluate localization cues in these binaural signals.
Preliminary chapters on the perception and reproduction of spatial audio provide a relevant background to the research presented in this thesis.
The major contributions of this thesis can be described as follows:
A subjective study comparing the quality of spatial audio over different headphones is presented. Using virtual headphone test methodologies, a series of MuSHRA tests were conducted which examined both the perceived spatial quality and general audio quality preference of a variety of stimuli. The results of the study show that there is a strong correlation between the perception of general audio quality and spatial audio quality presented via headphones. This is true however only when using a transfer function based virtual headphone test methodology is used. The study shows that results found using a binaural recording based approach to virtual headphone testing are inconsistent.
This investigation into the capture and presentation of binaural audio is followed by studies in sound source localization in binaural signals using machine learning. This work explores the relationship between spectral and interaural cues with source direction.
These studies focus entirely on binaural audio which has been synthesised using convolution with Head Related Impulse Responses (HRIRs). Novel methods are presented which use a combination of feature extraction with logistic classification to develop a proficient algorithm to localise sound sources in terms of both horizontal and vertical position. While the frequency dependent cues which allow us to detect sound source elevation are difficult to model using traditional methods, the results of these studies show they can be modelled accurately using deep learning and gammatone cepstral coefficients.
To improve the performance of this algorithm in the mismatched Head-Related Transfer Function (HRTF) condition, a clustering algorithm is introduced and used to cluster similar HRTF sets together providing a more robust performance. This clustering approach is evaluated in both anechoic and adverse environments and is used to identify anthropomorphic features which are important for determining our sense of vertical localization
A Comparison of Hand Tracing and Computerised Cephalometric Analysis
No full textThe aim of this study was to determine if automated computerised cephalometric analysis
with Planmeca Romexis® (Version 5.1.1.R) dental imaging software is as accurate as
traditional hand tracing in terms of landmark identification, angular and linear
measurements.
Pre-treatment lateral cephalograms for a selection of patients undergoing comprehensive
orthodontic treatment were collected and irreversibly anonymised. Using a sample of eight
radiographs, an inter-examiner reliability investigation was carried out to measure the level
of inter-rater agreement of cephalometric analysis by hand tracing between the primary
investigator and two Consultant Orthodontists. Using a sample of thirteen radiographs, an
intra-examiner reliability investigation was carried out to measure the level of intra-rater
agreement for cephalometric analysis by hand tracing of the primary investigator against
themselves at two different time points. To compare the results of automated
computerised cephalometric analysis using Planmeca Romexis® (Version 5.1.1.R) dental
imaging software with those obtained by traditional hand tracing, 68 lateral cephalograms
were manually traced by the primary investigator to include 16 anatomical landmarks and
15 angular and linear measurements. The radiographs were then analysed by the
automated software programme. The accuracy of the computer software programme was
assessed by comparing the automated landmark locations and measurements to the hand
traced landmark locations and measurements. Accuracy for automatic landmark
identification was recorded as successful detection within a 2.0mm precision range of the
hand traced landmark. Accuracy of automatic angular and linear measurements was
recorded within 2° or 2mm of the hand traced measurements respectively. Intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated to measure the level of inter-rater agreement.
Bland-Altman plots were constructed to analyse the level of inter-rater agreement.
Planmeca Romexis® (Version 5.1.1.R) dental imaging software programme had a landmark
successful detection rate (SDR) in a 2.0mm precision range of 82.08% with a mean radial
error of 1.25 ± 0.91mm. This is comparable with the inter-rater reliability between two
clinical experts. Gonion and A-point were the least accurately identified landmarks. The
average success rate for all angular and linear measurements within 2° or 2mm respectively
was 80.98%. ICCs for all measurements ranged between 0.73 and 1.00 indicating moderate
to excellent levels of agreement.
Automated cephalometric analysis with Planmeca Romexis® (Version 5.1.1.R) dental
imaging software is suitable for clinical use, however, more accurate measurements may
be possible if landmark locations are checked and amended if necessary prior to performing
an analysis
Exploring adult adoptees’ use of DNA testing as a method of adoption tracing
No full textAdvances in science and technology have influenced several facets of modern society.
Specifically, the emergence of DNA testing or Direct to Consumer Genetic Testing (DTC-GT).
In addition, the development of social media platforms has made the ability to connect with
others instantaneous, anonymous, and effortless. Regarding the field of adoption these
resources have changed the practice of search and reunion for birth parents, adoptees, and
adoptive families in Ireland. In view of these novel resources for adoption services, it is
essential to critically evaluate their utility. Hence, in collaboration with Aitheantas-Adoptee
Identity Rights, this dissertation explored adult adoptees’ use of these methods for tracing
biological relatives by means of primary research. Initially an online Google Form
questionnaire was distributed which received 48 individual responses. Thereafter, follow up
interviews were conducted online over MS Teams with just 6 participants, due to the scope of
this minor dissertation. The participant’s journey for connection, access to birth information
and reunion in several cases informed this dissertation. The findings indicate that the above
methods proved to be a positive resource for several adoptees. Adoptees also acknowledged
that there are limitations to using such resources. With regards to DNA testing, results may
not yield close familial matches and can be difficult to interpret in some instances. Given this,
adoptees highlighted the emotional element of these contemporary methods of adoption
tracing. Consequently, it emerged that further consideration and revision as to the current
search and reunion practices mentioned above need reform in the Irish context
Restorative responses to sexual violence: an introduction
No full textSexual violence, in all its forms, is a crime for which anecdotal accounts and scholarly reports suggest victims in their great majority do not receive adequate \u27justice\u27 or redress. The theory and practice of restorative justice is rapidly developing and offers some well-argued new avenues for dealings with crime in general. It has the potential to be extended to cases of sexual violence and a number of small scale programmes are already underway across the world.Restorative Responses to Sexual Violence examines this innovative justice paradigm in more depth in the particular context of sexual trauma and violence in order to establish the empirical realities of restorative justice approaches in cases of sexual violence, and considers how such approaches could be developed adequately in the future. This book is divided into two parts, each representing a key area of research and practice: theoretical and conceptual frameworks, and justice and therapeutic perspectives.This international collection brings together leading expert scholars and practitioners to offer both theoretical and practical perspectives on restorative justice and sexual violence. This book will be of interest to researchers in the field of law, criminology, psychology, social science, social work and psychotherapy, as well as practitioners in the fields of criminal justice, restorative justice and sex offender and victim trauma therapies.European Commissio
Margaret McNair Stokes (1832–1900): negotiating cultural values within nineteenth-century Irish antiquarian discourse
No full textIn her own time, Margaret McNair Stokes (1832-1900) was an esteemed antiquarian and
artist. Her work on early Christian architecture and monumental sculpture in Ireland was
pioneering and foundational and continues to inform contemporary research on these
topics. Facilitated by her family and their social networks, Stokes was part of an active
antiquarian culture based in Dublin which involved membership of scholarly associations
as well as social events both at home and on tour throughout the country. Stokes played
an important role within these circles, taking on significant editorial projects as well
as advancing her own research interests. However, in order to critically assess Stokes’s
specific contribution to Irish antiquarianism, this article examines two key aspects of her
work – the development of new methodologies for the study of Irish sculptured stone
monuments, and her advancement of a specific model of periodisation in relation to Irish
medieval art and architecture, one which was highly nationalistic, focused on ideas of
cultural purity, and which eschewed the prevailing trends within Irish antiquarianism
and historiography away from politicised interpretations of the Irish early Christian and
medieval past. In considering these facets of Stokes’s contribution to Irish antiquarianism
and historiography, this article repositions her as a pivotal figure, forging and heralding
significant changes of scholarly direction in relation to the fields of research in which she
engage
Ethnic differences in prevalence of actionable HbA1c levels in UK biobank: implications for screening
No full textIntroduction Early detection and treatment of diabetes as well as its prevention help lessen longer-term complications. We determined the prevalence of pre-diabetes and
undiagnosed diabetes in the UK Biobank and standardized the results to the UK general population. Research design and methods This cross-sectional study analyzed baseline UK Biobank data on plasma glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) to compare the prevalence of
pre-diabetes and undiagnosed diabetes mellitus in white, South Asian, black, and Chinese participants. The overall and ethnic-specific results were standardized to the UK
general population aged 40–70 years of age. Results Within the UK Biobank, the overall crude prevalence was 3.6% for pre-diabetes, 0.8% for undiagnosed diabetes, and 4.4% for either. Following standardization to the UK general population, the results
were similar at 3.8%, 0.8%, and 4.7%, respectively. Crude prevalence was much higher in South Asian (11.0% pre-diabetes; 3.6% undiagnosed diabetes; 14.6% either) or
black (13.8% pre-diabetes; 3.0% undiagnosed diabetes; 16.8% either) participants. Only six middle-aged or old-aged South Asian individuals or seven black would need to be tested to identify an HbA1c result that merits action. Conclusions Single-stage population screening for pre-diabetes or undiagnosed diabetes in middle-old or old-aged South Asian and black individuals using HbA1c could be efficient and should be considere