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Research Expertise from the Academic Diaspora (READ)
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Selected Fellows

Project Title: Structural Health Monitoring Based on Internet of Things Solutions

Diaspora Fellow
Grigor Angjeliu
Assistant Professor
Politecnico di Milano, Italy

Resident Fellow:
Markel Baballeku
Lecturer
Polytechnic University of Tirana

Field of Study: Engineering

Abstract: The recent earthquake during 2019 in Albania, showed the necessity to conduct experimental work to understand the structural health of existing buildings. The project proposes the application of two Structural Health Monitoring SHM solutions in two case studies: a) historical monument and b) bridge infrastructure. In each case study, a number of sensors will be installed to monitor parameters such as cracks, vibrations, temperature and humidity. Internet of Things architecture will be used to transmit collected data on the cloud. The created dashboard will be used to visualize the monitored structural quantities and make judgements on the structural system’s health.

Project Title: Introducing Big Data and Emerging Artificial Intelligence in Albania

Diaspora Fellow
Arben Asllani
Professor
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, USA

Resident Fellow
Kreshnik Vukatana
Lecturer
University of Tirana

Field of Study: Computer Science

Abstract: Universities play an important role in preparing qualified professionals with data analytic skills that are academically qualified and business world-ready. To meet the ever-growing demand in this field, the Department of Statistics and Applied Informatics must upgrade its curriculum offerings to include the latest technologies. Big Data analytics is an emerging trend that we need to include in the curriculum.

Project Title: Optimisation and Implementation of a Molecular Approach for Bioaerosols Identification

Diaspora Fellow
Bationa Bennewitz
Research Group Leader
Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany

Resident Fellow
Merita Xhetani
Lecturer and Researcher
University of Tirana

Field of Study: Biology

Abstract:  The aim of this project is to identify the presence of aeroallergens, possibilities, and limitations of specific detection and quantification strategies. This work consists of harmonization, development of protocols, and knowledge exchange to the detection of bioaerosols like fungi, bacteria, and viruses using low-cost methods. We will develop and use molecular biology-based techniques for monitoring the presence  of indoor aeroallergens. This project will substantially contribute to a better understanding of our indoor environment, including the systematic exposure assessment of specific aeroallergens, as well as to engage students and young researchers with hands-on techniques in molecular biology.

Project Title: Media Communications as a Result of Public Relations and Marketing Campaigns

Diaspora Fellow
Lindita Camaj
Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies
University of Houston, USA

Resident Fellow:
Alban Tartari
Associate Professor and Lecturer
University of Tirana

Field of Study: Journalism

Abstract: Media communications and productions in Albania, are generally products of PR and marketing campaigns. More than the interest of the Albanian public, the interests of politicians, corporations, and media owners are dominating the public discourse. Therefore, a deep reading of public media products and news editions, and prime-time TV programs (mainly political talk shows), will be monitored and analyzed. The hypothesis of this work would be: Albanian public, and especially the young people, are abandoning traditional media as they could not find their interests manifested in the media discourse.

Project Title: Interpretation/Translation in Virtual Reality

Diaspora Fellow
Bardhyl Demiraj
Professor
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany

Resident Fellow:
Ema Kristo
Lecturer
University of Tirana

Field of Study: Language

Abstract: The course “German and Albanian for translation and interpretation” which we intend to implement in the study curriculum Master in Translation is conceived as a new approach, with European features and dimensions expressed in goals, structure and content. Through this course we highlight the need for specialists in the field of translation, as one of the areas in increasing demand at a time when the German language is playing a very important role.

Project Title:  Migrant Remittances and Informality as Drivers of Business Venturing in the Emerging Economy Context of the Western Balkans

Diaspora Fellow
Endrit Kromidha
Associate Professor
University of Birmingham, United Kingdom

Resident Fellow
Dorina Koci
Lecturer
University of Tirana

Field of Study:  Business

Abstract:  The Western Balkans have been always known for high emigration rates and hence having large diaspora. Migrants send remittances to their countries, becoming a developing factor especially in case of emerging economies. The impact of remittances, from macro and microeconomic point of view has been widely studied in literature. However, there’s little evidence on how these flows of money impact the business venturing in emerging economy context of Western Balkans. High level of informality, discourage foreign investors to invest in such countries. Hence, migrant remittances can become a very important source of businesses financing

Project Title:  Right to Information in Albania: Decisions of the Commissioner on the Right to Information and Data Protection and Court Practice

Diaspora Fellow
Darinka Piqani
Assistant Professor
Leiden University, Netherlands

Resident Fellow
Eralda Methasani Çani
Professor
University of Tirana

Field of Study: Law

Abstract:  The project aims to elaborate the right to information in Albania in a two-fold approach: firstly its aims to analyse the Commissioner on the Right to Information and Data Protection decisions and the court practice through the research component in producing two scholarly materials, a scientific article and a study.  Secondly, it aims to contribute through joint efforts of Albanian and diaspora scholars into the professional formation of Albanian law students, School of Magistrates and public employees regarding the right to information through academic seminars, lectures, forums and webinars.

Project Title: Use of Administrative Data as a Powerful Resource for Social Work Research in Social Care Policies and Practices

Diaspora Fellow
Lantona Sado
Associate Researcher
Italian Geographic Society (SGI) and University Roma 3e, Italy

Resident Fellow
Eliona Kulluri-Bimbashi
Lecturer and Head of Department of Social Work
University of Tirana

Field of Study: Social Work

Abstract:  The administrative data are increasingly important source of information for cutting-edge research initiatives in social protection and care. However, the academics and researchers faces several challenges in understanding and using these data as a result of wide quantity, issues of inconsistency in terminology and standardization. A strong conceptual basis for a research data infrastructure that is efficient and sustainable reveals essential.  In short, understanding the potentials, advantages and disadvantages of administrative data, their access and quality, allows good quality research and policy prescriptions to be carried out to further the goal of social protection and care reform in Albania.

Project Title: Development of Simulation and Forecasting Models and Integration with the TCIA Database of Medical Images

Diaspora Fellow
Kita Sallabanda Diaz
Professor
Instituto de Radiocirugía Avanzada, Spain

Resident Fellow
Dafina Hyka
Lecturer and Researcher
University of Tirana

Field of Study: Physics

Abstract:  This research project aims to conduct advanced studies on the development and use of artificial intelligence models in medical imaging for common cancers, in routine, preventive examinations for cancers such as breast cancer and colon cancer. In breast cancer, tissue micro calcification can often be difficult to finally identify as malignant or benign. False positives can lead to incorrect and unnecessarily invasive testing or treatment, while missed malignancies can result in delayed diagnoses and worse outcomes. Therefore, if a proper simulation. Also we to Increase cooperation with other actors abroad such as public and private hospitals, companies etc.

Project Title:  The Evaluation and Comparison of New CAD CAM Prosthetic Materials

Diaspora Fellow
Bruna Sinjari
Senior Researcher
Università degli Studi “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti – Pescara, Italy

Resident Fellow
Edit Xhajanka
Lecturer and Dean
University of Medicine

Field of Study: Dental Sciences

Abstract: The objective is to evaluate the ageing rate, the mechanical properties and the biocompatibility of different kinds of CAD/CAM glass-ceramics used in Prosthodontics. A total of 60 intact human maxillary molars after being mounted in acrylic resin, will be scanned to acquire biogeneric copies. Specimens will be prepared through clinical preparation standards, up to 2 mm above the cement-enamel junction. The specimens will be divided into three groups and crowns will be designed using biogeneric copies and will be milled from the different kinds of CAD/CAM glass-ceramics such as: lithium disilicate, zirconia reinforced lithium silicate ceramics, high-translucent zirconia disks.

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