bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efecto de la incorporación de ceniza volante y escoria de horno alto en el comportamiento electroquímico de concretos de cemento comercial
Authors: Gutiérrez-Junco Oscar J. , Pineda-Triana Yaneth , Vera-López Enrique
Published: November 2015

Este trabajo presenta los resultados de la evaluación de propiedades de pastas de cemento comercial (CPC), mezcladas con ceniza volante (FA) y escoria de alto horno (GBFS). Inicialmente un total de 30 combinaciones fueron evaluadas en términos de resistencia a la compresión para establecer las proporciones óptimas de las materias primas. Después de esto, cuatro mezclas optimizadas fueron caracterizadas durante el proceso de fraguado y endurecimiento. Se realizaron ensayos electroquímicos en cilindros de concreto elaborados con los cementantes y con una varilla de acero de construcción embebida en su interior. Con el objetivo de evaluar el comportamiento frente a la corrosión se estudiaron aspectos termodinámicos y cinéticos. Los resultados mostraron que cementos comerciales mezclados con ceniza volante y escoria de alto horno, como los usados en esta investigación, presentan menor resistencia mecánica y a la corrosión que un cemento comercial.
La calidad de la respuesta en la encuesta presencial. El caso de los barómetros del Centro de Investigaciones Sociológicas
Authors: Díaz de Rada Vidal
Published: November 2015

La entrevista cara a cara con cuestionario estructurado ha sido la modalidad de recogida de información más utilizada en España hasta finales del siglo XX. La realización de la entrevista a solas con el entrevistado, al ritmo fijado por este y empleando adecuadamente recursos visuales (tarjetas) que ayudan a la comprensión de la pregunta, genera que los cuestionarios respondidos mediante esta modalidad presenten un escaso número de preguntas no respondidas.
El objetivo de este trabajo es cuestionar esta afirmación considerando, por un lado, las declaraciones del entrevistador (que definen la situación en la que ha tenido lugar la entrevista) y, por otro, la ausencia de valores en las variables (consecuencia de lo anterior). Los entrevistadores señalan que en el 14 % de los hogares las entrevistas se realizaron en compañía, un 10 % de los entrevistados ha tenido prisa por terminar la entrevista y el 21 % respondió el cuestionario sin ayudas visuales. En cuanto a la no respuesta parcial, el porcentaje medio obtenido por las categorías «no sabe» y «no responde» es superior al 6 % en cuatro de los seis estudios considerados. Estas «ausencias de respuesta» aumentan notablemente cuando los entrevistados no emplean las tarjetas y en las entrevistas realizadas con prisa.
Using Technology to Enhance Science Literacy, Mathematics Literacy, or Technology Literacy
Authors: DeCoito Isha , Richardson Tasha
Published: November 2015

This chapter explores the potential of a digital game, The History of Biology (HoB) as a learning environment in which today's learners find technology engaging and practical to advance their learning and interact with STEM content. The authors report on a study which assumed an explicit-reflective teaching approach from the perspective that the HoB game was developed in the context of the history, philosophy, and sociology of science and technology. The study addressed the following question: What effect, if any, does HoB have on students' a) learning 21st century skills, and b) engagement with integrated STEM content? The authors hypothesize that by providing opportunities for exploring integrated STEM content via a digital online game, pre-service science students may enhance their own numeracy, and scientific and technological literacy, and also develop positive attitudes toward teaching STEM content through digital technologies in the classroom.
Sounding Out Science
Authors: Gomes Clement Vashkar , Mensah Felicia Moore
Published: November 2015

With the current focus to have all students reach scientific literacy in the U.S, there exists a need to support marginalized students, such as those with Learning Disabilities/Differences (LD), to reach the same educational goals as their mainstream counterparts. This chapter examines the benefits of using audio assistive technology on the iPad to support LD students to achieve comprehension of science vocabulary and semantics. This research is composed of quantified data supported by qualitative information. Significant statistical evidence from pretest and posttest ANCOVA analysis reveals that audio technology is beneficial for seventh grade LD students when learning unfamiliar science content. Analysis of observations and student interviews support the quantified findings. This chapter provides useful information for the rising number of identified LD students and their parents and teachers by providing the benefits of using audio assistive technology to learn science. Audio assistive technology can be the tool to bridge the gap for LD students to achieve scientific literacy.
Visualizing Condensation
Authors: Akaygun Sevil
Published: November 2015

Learning chemistry involves understanding chemical phenomena at macroscopic, symbolic and submicroscopic levels. Even though chemistry instructors integrate these levels in their lessons, it cannot be assumed that students relate them properly. Therefore, it is important to identify students' mental models that will reveal how they visualize and conceptualize chemistry. Mental models can be represented in various forms including static drawing and animations. Considering the dynamic nature of chemistry, animations prepared by students can be more informative conveying students' understandings. This study aimed to investigate how high school students visualize condensation and to compare their dynamic and static mental. The analysis of the results suggested that static and dynamic mental models were found to be significantly different (p<0.05). Static mental models were found to be more focusing on structure whereas dynamic ones included more macroscopic features and interactions. Finally, students revised their mental models towards more accurate models after preparing animations.
STEM Learning in Middle Grades by Technology-Mediated Integration of Science and Mathematics
Authors: Dass Pradeep Maxwell , Spagnolo John T.
Published: November 2015

In an attempt to foster inquiry-oriented learning in middle grades (grades 6 – 8), a technology mediated pedagogy integrating science and mathematics was promoted through Project SMILE (Science and Mathematics Integration for Literacy Enhancement). It involved in-service teachers in professional learning and classroom implementation over a period of two academic years, with the explicit goal of enhancing teachers' ability to foster more authentic inquiry in their classes. This chapter describes the design of Project SMILE in the context of recent reform efforts in science and mathematics education, along with the theoretical underpinnings for the design. Project activities, followed by the research methodology employed to investigate the impact on both teachers and students are described next. Finally, research results and their implications are discussed with an eye toward the usefulness of integrating science and mathematics and involving specific technological tools to foster greater inquiry-oriented learning in school science and mathematics.
A Qualitative Study of Teachers' Understanding of Sustainability
Authors: Chang Hsiaowei Cristina , Kelly Resa Marie , Metzger Ellen P.
Published: November 2015

This qualitative study was focused on exploring how in-service teachers' who were attending a three-day “Educating for Sustainability” workshop made sense of sustainability. Another goal of this study was to examine teachers' perceptions of the portrayal of the three dimensions of sustainability (environment, economy and social equity) in short movies that served as “real world” exemplars of sustainability that were freely available online through YouTube or other websites. Data was collected largely through individual semi-structured interviews, but also through questionnaires and written and drawn documentation. The findings, obtained through the constant-comparative method of coding, indicated that teachers' spontaneous descriptions of sustainability emphasized the environmental and economic dimensions of sustainability, but overlooked the equity dimension of sustainability. The videos helped teachers incorporate the 3E's into their sustainability discussions when all three dimensions were addressed, but when the social equity dimension was missing, then it tended to go unnoticed.
Using Technology to Rethink the Intersection of Statistics Education and Social Justice
Authors: Poling Lisa L. , Naresh Nirmala , Goodson-Espy Tracy J.
Published: November 2015

A critical consumer is able to ask questions and discern information about data—its collection and analysis, and is able to judge whether conclusions are warranted (GAISE, 2007; Best, 2001). Promoting statistical knowledge by exploring social issues that create disparities helps individuals foster initiative for positive change and engage in equitable practices (Moses & Cobb, 2001; Gutstein, 2006). This chapter explains investigations suitable for use with pre-service/in-service teachers and middle school or high school students. Investigations were structured to help participants: 1) Engage in statistical problem solving using real data; 2) Focus on the process of statistical investigation (Rossman & Chance, 2012); and 3) Consider statistics as a means of promoting social change. A description of investigations and sample artifacts are included.
Using Reason Racer to Support Argumentation in Middle School Science Instruction
Authors: Ault Marilyn , Craig-Hare Jana , Ellis James D. , Bulgren Janis , Kretschmer Isa , Frey Bruce B.
Published: November 2015

With secondary students reporting that they are not attracted to science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) disciplines, educators are turning to games as one strategy to engage students. The goal of integrating games into science learning is to create an excitement difficult to achieve with typical instruction. This chapter reviews games in education, particularly in STEM. Recognizing that teachers often lack the time to integrate role-playing games, the use of casual games is suggested. Casual games are easy to learn and simple to play, and incorporate game features designed to compel students to repeated play. The Reason Racer game addresses the difficult skill of scientific argumentation in a casual, competitive game. Evaluated with more than 700 students, those who played the game at least 10 times during science instruction over 6-weeks improved in every aspect of argumentation, and reported an increase in confidence and motivation to engage in science, compared to those who did not play the game. Readers are walked through the game and the resources in the Teacher Portal.
Strategies for Effective Worldwide Supply Chains
Authors: Aboutalebi Reza
Published: November 2015

In this study, after analyzing hundreds of papers and books by using a meta-analysis technique, it was revealed that supply chain management suffers from a lack of strategies for many aspects of real-world supply chain activity. Existing supply-related strategies are very primitive and incomplete. Real-world activities in modern supply chains are complicated and multidimensional; consequently, supply chain strategies should reflect and manage these realities. This study aims to reduce the existing shortcomings in current supply chain strategies by proposing the taxonomy of supply chain strategies.
Information Quality in Supply Chain Software
Authors: Kafi Farhad , Kafi Majid
Published: November 2015

In the new dynamic economic environment where supply chains increasingly face constant change and instability, the better supply chain planning and management enabled by advanced data management systems provides enhanced value proposition for customers resulting in improved profitability for firms along the supply chain. However, achieving such high quality level of supply chain visibility is not an easy task requiring technological capability, organizational willingness and data quality management intensively demanding attention from both managers and scholars. Therefore, the chapter begins with an overview of the role of information systems in supply chain management followed by a discussion regarding the role of information quality in successful supply chain interactions. Data quality management in terms of strategy and data governance is then reviewed. Finally, data quality tools complementing strategy dimension of data quality management are studied.
Value Creation and Appropriation in Buyer-Supplier Relationships
Authors: Kittilaksanawong Wiboon
Published: November 2015

The productive relationship between buyer and supplier is often subject to opportunistic behaviors of the supplier. When selecting a supplier, firms have to balance between benefits of production efficiency and costs of transactional integrity. To minimize the supplier's opportunism, firms devise formal and informal governance mechanisms that match with characteristics of the relationship at the firm level, sourcing strategy of the buyer, at the industry level, competition among suppliers, and at the country level, national culture where the supplier's operations are located. While concurrently employing both formal and informal governance mechanisms may be more effective in suppressing the supplier's opportunism, it may be too costly in the design and implementation. The best strategy for the buyers is to adopt the governance mechanism that matches with characteristics of the relationship at different levels.
Supply Chain Resilience
Authors: Vecchi Alessandra , Vallisi Valentina
Published: November 2015

The chapter will consist of a literature review that will be framed to address the following three questions. The first question is “What is a resilient supply chain?” The aim is to provide an in-depth understanding of resilience and to distinguish a supply chain which is resilient from one which is not. The second question is “Why companies should build a resilient supply chain?” Some factors have increased firms' vulnerability and the losses associated with unpredictable events. Companies should understand that the advantages linked to building resilience do not become evident only in case of disastrous events, but also during the ordinary operations execution. The third question is: “How to build resilience?” The most relevant ways to build resilience will be illustrated by drawing on some short case studies that were purposefully chosen in order to present a practical implementation of some of the different techniques used to create resilience. At the end of the chapter, conclusion, managerial implications, limitations and directions for future research will be provided.
Strategic Value Creation in a Supply Chain
Authors: Vijayan Gowri , Kamarulzaman Nitty Hirawaty , Mukherjee Aroop , Vaiappuri Selvakkumar K. N.
Published: November 2015

This chapter is designed to give the readers a concise understanding of supply chain strategies and the process involved in its formation. It is a background study on the changing role of supply chain in gaining competitive advantage for the firm. The chapter discusses on traceability and integration along a supply chain, its inception and the advantages to the corporate world through its implementation. The chapter focuses on the topic of value creation in a supply chain through strategic management decisions like vertical and horizontal integration. The value chain analysis model for competitive advantage is covered in this chapter. A discussion on the differences between vertical and horizontal integration systems and the best strategic decision among them is provided. The concepts of sustainable supply chain integration, traceability, and the limitations to their implementation have also been discussed. The best examples on practitioners of supply chain strategy and integration are provided along the chapter.
Structuring and Managing Supply Network
Authors: Liu Zheng
Published: November 2015

The concept of supply network has extended supply chain across national borders towards globalization. The aim of this chapter is to provide researchers, business practitioners and university students a picture of the architecture of supply networks. By analyzing two main trends of studies in the field of supply network management, components of supply network are classified into structural and infrastructural factors. Also a comparison is made to identify the difference between supply network and traditionally factory-based manufacturing system. Based on the literature review, a conceptual framework is further proposed which describes the supply network from four essential perspectives: Role/function, Relationship/alliance, Configuration/reconfiguration, and Risk and crisis management. After presenting detailed models and decision making areas of each perspective, suggestions are given on some emerging topics.
The Interoperability of US Federal Government Information
Authors: Washington Anne L.
Published: November 2015

Interoperability sets standards for consistency when integrating information from multiple sources. Trends in e-government have encouraged the production of digital information yet it is not clear if the data produced are interoperable. The objective of the project was to evaluate interoperability by building a retrieval tool that could track United States public policy from the legislative to the executive branch using only machine-readable government information. A case study of policy created during the 2008 financial crisis serves as an illustration to investigate the organizational, technical, syntactic, and operational interoperability of digital sources. The methods of citing law varied widely enough between legislation and regulation to impede consistent automated tracking. The flow of federal policy authorization exemplifies remaining socio-technical challenges in achieving the interoperability of machine-readable government data.
Big Data and Cloud Interoperability
Authors: Hashim Ahmad Yusairi Bani
Published: November 2015

Cloud computing provides access to the high volume of data to individuals and enterprises. Immense data analytics and mobile technologies contain useful knowledge. Data storage, security, and privacy, on the other hand, are the main issues for any organization or enterprises in the business world. Big data processing is within reach due to easy access to cloud architectures and open-source software. Now, interoperability of big data and cloud has become a necessity in this era of data-intensive world.
Application of Mathematical Modeling for the Secure and Intelligent Energy Infrastructure
Authors: Cai Tianxing
Published: November 2015

The unpredictable damage caused by potential attack and natural disaster may impact the operation of energy infrastructure, which is vital to local and national security. Thus, mathematical modeling based decision making tools become a must, because they can provide the scientific strategy to enhance the security and intelligence of energy infrastructure. In this chapter, the preliminary framework of a mathematical model is introduced. It includes the definition and characterization of energy network with the capability of self-recovery and the efficacy of the road map generation to handle the uncertainty of identified damage. The new methodology is the preliminary study for the future work in this field.
The Role of State Actors in Cybersecurity
Authors: Yeo Seunghwan , Birch Amanda Sue , Bengtsson Hans Ingvar Jörgen
Published: November 2015

The growing impact of cyber activities across political, social, economic, and military domains makes cyberspace an essential dimension of human security. The role of states in cybersecurity requires a different approach from conventional security models because the classic concept of statehood comprising territory, population, and nationality is absent in cyberspace. Additionally, security issues in cyberspace are not always between or among states and they frequently lack clear attribution and motivation. This new paradigm of individual and knowledge-centered cyberpower means state actors no longer fully monopolize violence, per Max Weber's definition of a state. Furthermore, unlike the interstate dynamic between nuclear powers, cyber warfare is offense-dominant due to the absence of efficient deterrence. The immediate security concern should be addressing the protection of cybercitizens across borders. Therefore, state actors must cooperate to establish a multilateral uninterrupted network in order to safeguard the cyber commons via mutually assured collective cybersecurity.
The Importance of Intercultural Learning in Study Abroad
Authors: Duke Steven T.
Published: November 2015

College graduates in the 2010's will work in a world that is more globalized than ever before. Graduates need to be prepared to work with people from many parts of the world. Study abroad programs offer an ideal context in which teachers-in-training can learn about intercultural communication and different patterns of culturally-based behavior. This chapter first defines a series of key words; including culture, intercultural communication, intercultural communication competence, and intercultural learning. The chapter then provides an in-depth look at intercultural learning programs and courses developed and implemented by a variety of United States universities and study abroad organizations. Intentional, holistic, and research-driven methods of instruction are described. Suggestions and recommendations are also provided. This chapter also advocates that institutions implement cultural mentoring for faculty who lead study abroad programs.
The Benefits and Challenges of Study Abroad in Teacher Education in a Neoliberal Context
Authors: Dockrill Hannah , Rahatzad Jubin , Phillion JoAnn
Published: November 2015

In this chapter the authors review literature--primarily within the field of teacher education--and present their own data about the benefits and challenges of study abroad. Drawing from the literature and data collected over eleven years of Purdue University's Honduras Study Abroad, the authors pragmatically doubt the often unquestioned benefits or transformative nature of study abroad programs. The authors argue that while international cross-cultural experiences can result in increased multicultural awareness, it is important that study abroad participants are encouraged to critically examine the reasons they are going abroad, the neoliberal context in which they study abroad, and the manner in which they process their assumptions and experiences in the host country in relation to their own identity. The authors offer suggestions for improvement for those wanting to integrate more intentional reflection and critical curriculum.
Dealing with Reverse Culture Shock for Students Returning from Study Abroad Programs
Authors: Manzoor Amir
Published: November 2015

When students return from their study abroad programs, they can often feel distress, anxiety, and cultural identity confusion. Many university campuses within the developed world are providing resources to help students deal with these feelings. However, this is not always the case with the universities of developing world. An increasing number of students from developing countries are going abroad for their studies and many of them are part of study exchange programs. It is important for universities in the students' home countries to become abreast of these difficulties and prepare students to deal with them on the university campus. This study uses a large public university in Sindh, Pakistan to determine what kinds of resources are available to study abroad students and the role these resources play in helping students with feelings of reentry shock. The study also provides suggestions to assist in culturally ambiguous situations experienced once students return home.
An Integral Approach to Active Learning in Mathematics
Authors: Yuen Chris L. , Clarke Veronika Bohac
Published: November 2015

In this chapter we examine the notion of “active learning” through Wilber's Integral AQAL Model and through two learning models based on AQAL. Our examination of Edwards' integral learning and Renert and Davis' five stages of mathematics, results in a multi-perspective, multi-level notion of “active learning”. We demonstrate, through the development of a rubric to gauge students' “activeness”, the complexity of what is involved in the teaching and learning process when one becomes mindful of the perspectives and levels (AQAL) that are present for every student. Several episodes of learning are used to show how each theoretical model applies, and an extended episode, which illustrates a student's repair strategy on a mathematically erroneous concept, is used to illustrate the analysis of the extent of active learning. The chapter concludes with a discussion of how the rubric of active learning, along with the four continua, can help teachers be mindful of the multiple perspectives that influence learning.
Employing Active Learning and the Flipped Classroom Model in Developing Countries
Authors: Alshehri Ajlan M.
Published: November 2015

This chapter examines the discourse on the need to employ active learning and flipped classroom model in educational settings in developing countries particularly in Saudi Arabia. Specifically, this chapter examines the concept and importance of Active Learning and Flipped Classroom Model. It also reviews the efforts and readiness of educational settings for implementing these instructional approaches. The chapter also elaborates and discusses various opportunities, which surround active learning and flipped classroom model in educational settings. Additionally, the chapter illustrates primary challenges that might hinder the implementation of active Learning and Flipped Classroom Model.
Blending Digital Content in Teacher Education Programs
Authors: Dickenson Patricia , Sistek-Chandler Cynthia
Published: November 2015

Teacher Education programs worldwide are engaging in a digital conversation around best practices for supporting and teaching teacher candidates in the creation of digital content for a 21st century blended classroom. This chapter examines the status of teacher preparation in technology and explores current trends for instructors of the NextGen educator. Further the authors share how 21 Century Skills and global competencies among pre-service teachers can be applied in an online learning environment in teacher education programs.
Challenges in Implementing the Flipped Classroom Model in Higher Education
Authors: Chellapan Lakshmi , van der Meer Jacques
Published: November 2015

The flipped classroom as typically applied in higher education, consists of delivering lecture material outside of classroom contact, leaving face-to-face class time for more interactive learning, discussion, integration, and application of content (Grant, 2013). Increasing numbers of teachers in higher education are considering implementing this model in light of the perceived benefits of a more active engagement of students in their learning, be it in education, interior designing, medical, sciences, social science, business and management programs (Fulton, 2012; Grant,2013; Roehl, et al. 2013). However, there are challenges in implementing this model. This chapter aims to identify some of the more common challenges. Finally, an example of ‘work in progress' of addressing of these challenges in ‘flipping' the classroom in a first-year university course.
Enhancing the Quality of Computer Science Education with MOOCs in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Mtebe Joel S. , Kissaka Mussa M.
Published: November 2015

The quality of computer science education in higher education in Sub-Saharan Africa is reported to be poor. This is due to acute shortage of well-trained faculty members, irrelevant and outdated curricula, and poor teaching methodology. Although several interventions exist to improve the quality of computer science education in the region, there have not yet been many attempts to systematically adapt and integrate Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in computer science education. This chapter presents approaches that can be used by faculty members to adapt and integrate MOOCs in order to enhance the quality of computer science education. These approaches are the first steps towards helping faculty members and institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa to utilize the potential of MOOCs to improve the quality of computer science education and to equip students with employable skills for both local and international IT industry.
Mapping Population Health Management Roadmap into Cervical Cancer Screening Programs
Authors: Moumtzoglou Anastasius , Pouliakis Abraham
Published: November 2015

Population Health Management (PHM) aims to provide better health outcomes for preventing diseases, closing care gaps and providing more personalized care. Since the inception of the Pap test, cervical cancer (CxCa) decreased in countries applying cervical cancer programs, involving both prevention and treatment. In this article, the authors map the PHM roadmap to the design of cervical cancer screening programs and examine the effect on the supporting information technology systems. Notwithstanding screening programs have a tight relation to PHM; the mapping reveals numerous interventions involving additional data sources, and timeless reconfiguration.
Cognitive Informatics and Computational Intelligence
Authors: Wang Yingxu , Rolls Edmund T. , Howard Newton , Raskin Victor , Kinsner Witold , Murtagh Fionn , Bhavsar Virendrakumar C. , Patel Shushma , Patel Dilip , Shell Duane F.
Published: November 2015

Cognitive Informatics (CI) is a contemporary multidisciplinary field spanning across computer science, information science, cognitive science, brain science, intelligence science, knowledge science, cognitive linguistics, and cognitive philosophy. Cognitive Computing (CC) is a novel paradigm of intelligent computing methodologies and systems based on CI that implements computational intelligence by autonomous inferences and perceptions mimicking the mechanisms of the brain. This paper reports a set of position statements presented in the plenary panel of IEEE ICCI*CC'14 on Cognitive Informatics and Cognitive Computing. The summary is contributed by invited panelists who are part of the world's renowned researchers and scholars in the transdisciplinary field of cognitive informatics and cognitive computing.
Image File Storage System Resembling Human Memory
Authors: Wu Xing , Pei Mengqi
Published: November 2015

Big Data era is characterized by the explosive increase of image files on the Internet, massive image files bring great challenges to storage. It is required not only the storage efficiency of massive image files but also the accuracy and robustness of massive image file management and retrieval. To meet these requirements, distributed image file storage system based on cognitive theory is proposed. According to the human brain function, humans can correlate image files with thousands of distinct object and action categories and sorted store these files. Thus the authors proposed to sorted store image files according to different visual categories based on human cognition to resemble human memory. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed distributed image file system (DIFS) based on cognition performs better than Hadoop Distributed File System (HDFS) and FastDFS.
Penguin Search Optimisation Algorithm for Finding Optimal Spaced Seeds
Authors: Gheraibia Youcef , Moussaoui Abdelouahab , Djenouri Youcef , Kabir Sohag , Yin Peng-Yeng , Mazouzi Smaine
Published: November 2015

This paper develops PeSeeD, a new metaheuristic algorithm for finding optimal spaced seed. Sequences matching is a hot topic in bio-informatics, which is used in many applications such as understanding the functional, structural, or evolutionary relationships between the sequences. The most relevant sequences matching methods are based on seeds designed to match two biological sequences. The first approach which introduced seeds was facilitated via Blastn tool, the approach builds seeds of 11 length size. However, it is clear that not all local alignments have to include an identical fragment of length 11. The spaced seeds approach is one of the methods which does not require a consecutive matching position. Dynamic programming is used to solve this kind of problem and it takes quadratic time. Several approaches have then been proposed to improve the sensitivity of searching in reasonable runtime. To reduce the complexity of such approaches, other heuristics based approaches can also be reviewed. The aim is to find spaced seeds subset which improves sensitivity without increasing the computation time. In this paper, the optimal subset spaced seeds are explored using the bio-inspired approach, penguins search optimisation algorithm (‘'PeSOA'' for short). The authors further propose an efficient heuristic for computing the overlap complexity between seeds. To evaluate the efficiency of the proposed approach, they compared the obtained results with the results of several seeds based software tools. The obtained results are very promising in terms of sensitivity and computation time for the overlap complexity.
An inquiry into socio-historical factors contributing to poverty within the Early Church in Palestine
Authors: Kakwata Frederick
Published: November 2015

This article seeks to investigate the root causes of poverty in the early Christian community.The view that is put forward and argued in this article is that poverty was widespread in early Christianity with particular reference to the converted Jews in Palestine. This was the result of socio-historical factors, namely the Israelites’ contact with Canaanites during the conquest,and the implementation of the secular leadership paradigm derived from those paga n nations around Israel, which led to their subjugation under the oppressive and exploitative and economic structures of the Roman Empire. For that reason many believers, newly converted Jews, at that time were destitute and impoverished as they belonged to the lower classes in society. In spite of this state of affairs, the early Christians in Jerusalem seemed to have faced the challenges of poverty with a measure of success as can be attested by the statement ‘for there was no needy person amongst them …’ (Ac 4:34).’n Ondersoek na sosio-historiese faktore wat tot armoede binne die vroeë Christelikekerk in Palestina bygedra het. Die doel van hierdie artikel is om die grondoorsake van armoede in die vroeë Christelike gemeenskap te ondersoek met spesifieke verwysing na die bekeerde Jode in Palestina. Die standpunt wat in hierdie artikel gestel en beredeneer word, is dat armoede algemeen in die vroeë Christendom voorgekom het. Dit was as gevolg van verskeie sosio-historiese faktore, waaronder die Israeliete se kontak met die Kanaäniete ná die inname, asook die instelling van die sekulêre paradigma oor leierskap wat Israel aan die naburige heidennasies ontleen het en wat op hulle verknegting onder die Romeinse Ryk se onderdrukkende en uitbuitende strukture uitgeloop het. ’n Groot aantal gelowiges, bekeerde Jode, was in daardie tyd behoeftig en armoedig omdat hulle deel van die laer klasse in die samelewing was. Tog, ten spyte van hierdie omstandighede, het die vroeë Christene in Jerusalem klaarblyklik die uitdaging van armoede met ’n mate van sukses gehanteer, soos die stelling getuig: ‘Nie een van hulle het gebrek gely nie …’ (Hand 4:34).
Telltale signs of peripheral neurogenic tumors on magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Kakkar Chandan , Shetty Chandrakant M , Koteshwara Prakashini , Bajpai Surabhi
Published: November 2015

Peripheral nerve sheath tumors are categorized into benign and malignant forms, comprising of neurofibroma and schwannoma in the benign category and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors in the malignant category. Magnetic resonance imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis of these lesions. The various imaging features and signs that help to identify and characterize a nerve sheath tumor are, distribution of the tumor along a major nerve, an entering or exiting nerve sign, target sign, a fascicular sign and a split-fat sign.
Pediatric whole-body magnetic resonance imaging: Intra-individual comparison of technical quality, artifacts, and fixed structure visibility at 1.5 and 3 T
Authors: Mohan Shyam , Moineddin Rahim , Chavhan Govind B
Published: November 2015

Purpose: To compare whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (WBMRI) performed at 1.5 and 3 T for technical quality, artifacts, and visibility of selected fixed structures. Patients and Methods: 21 children who had WBMRI at both 1.5 and 3 T scanners within a relatively short interval (3-13 months; average-8.6 months) were included. The images were objectively compared with scores from 4 to 1 for five parameters including severity of artifacts; visibility of liver, vertebral column, and marrow in legs; and overall image quality. Inter-observer agreement was calculated using Kendall's coefficient of Concordance (W) and scores were compared using Signed Rank test. Results: There was substantial inter-observer agreement for all five categories at both field strengths. The difference between averages of mean scores of all five parameters for two field strengths was statistically significant (P < 0.05), indicating less artifact, better fixed structure visibility, and overall image quality at 1.5 T as compared to 3 T. However, scores at 3 T were also rated within a good range (around 3) indicating its feasibility for WBMRI in children. Conclusion: WBMRI at 1.5 T has significantly better image quality, fixed structure visibility, and fewer artifacts, as compared to WBMRI at 3 T in children. This difference is unlikely to significantly affect detection of pathology on 3 T WBMRI as the image quality score at 3 T was also within good range.
Integrated 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography magnetic resonance imaging (18F-FDG PET/MRI), a multimodality approach for comprehensive evaluation of dementia patients: A pictorial essay
Authors: Jena Amarnath , Renjen Pushpendra Nath , Taneja Sangeeta , Gambhir Aashish , Negi Pradeep
Published: November 2015

Dementia, caused by irreversible neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease or reversible non-degenerative conditions, is rapidly becoming one of the most alarming health problems in our aging society. This cognitive disorder associated with a multitude of clinical differentials with overlapping clinical, pathological, and imaging features is difficult to diagnose and treat, as it often presents late after significant neuronal damage has already occurred. Novel disease-modifying treatments being developed will have to be corroborated with innovative imaging biomarkers so that earlier reliable diagnosis can be made and treatment initiated upon. Along with new specific PET radiotracers, integrated PET/MRI with combined methodological advantage and simultaneously acquired structural-cum-functional information may help achieve this goal. The present pictorial essay details our experiences with PET/MRI in dementing disorders, along with reviewing recent advances and future scope.
Primary spinal primitive neuroectodermal tumor on MR imaging
Authors: Thoriya Prashant J , Watal Pankaj , Bahri Nandini U , Rathod Ketan
Published: November 2015

Neoplasms in the region of filum terminale are not uncommon. Myxopapillary ependymoma is the commonest tumor at this location. The differentials reported for this entity are nerve sheath tumor, meningioma, paraganglioma, intradural metastases, lymphoma, other varieties of ependymoma, subependymoma, astrocytoma, ganglioglioma, hemangioblastoma, and primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET). PNET may very rarely present as an intradural thoracolumbar mass. We present pre- and post-therapy magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of a patient with proven primary spinal primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PSPNET) of peripheral subtype.
Imaging and interventions in idiopathic intracranial hypertension: A pictorial essay
Authors: Sivasankar Rajeev , Pant Rochan , Indrajit Inna K , Negi Raj S , Sahu Samresh , Hashim PI , D'Souza John
Published: November 2015

Intracranial hypertension is a syndrome of elevated intracranial pressure that can be primary or secondary. The primary form, now termed idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), was in the past a disease of exclusion and imaging played a limited role of excluding organic causes of raised intracranial pressure. However imaging markers have been described with patients with IIH at the orbit, sella and cerebral venous system. We wish to reiterate the characteristic imaging features of this poorly understood disease and also emphasise that stenting of the transverse sinus in select cases of IIH is an efficacious option.
Cancer Stem and Progenitor-Like Cells as Pharmacological Targets in Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: De Souza Valéria B. , Schenka André A.
Published: November 2015

The present review is focused on the current role of neoplastic stem and progenitor-like cells as primary targets in the pharmacotherapy of cancer as well as in the development of new anticancer drugs. We begin by summarizing the main characteristics of these tumor-initiating cells and key concepts that support their participation in therapeutic failure. In particular, we discuss the differences between the major carcinogenesis models (ie, clonal evolution vs cancer stem cell (CSC) model) with emphasis on breast cancer (given its importance to the study of CSCs) and their implications for the development of new treatment strategies. In addition, we describe the main ways to target these cells, including the main signaling pathways that are more activated or altered in CSCs. Finally, we provide a comprehensive compilation of the most recently tested drugs.
Article Commentary: Spinal Tuberculosis
Authors: Ekinci Safak , Tatar Oner , Akpancar Serkan , Bilgic Serkan , Ersen Omer
Published: November 2015

Spinal tuberculosis (TB) is a significant form of TB, causing spinal deformity and paralysis. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for avoiding multivertebral destruction and are critical for improving outcomes in spinal TB. We believe that appropriate treatment method should be implemented at the early stage of this disease and that the Gulhane Askeri Tip Akademisi classification system can be considered a practical guide for spinal TB treatment planning in all countries.
Imported Inputs and Egyptian Exports: Exploring the Links
Authors: Parra María Dolores , Martínez-Zarzoso Inmaculada
Published: November 2015

This paper is the first to explore the links between exporting and importing activities of Egyptian firms using panel data over the period from 2003 to 2007. The main aim is twofold. Firstly, the authors report regression results indicating that firms that both export and import are the most productive, followed by importing-, exporting-only firms and non-traders. Secondly, they estimate the determinants of the extensive and intensive margins of exports and imports using dynamic panel-Probit and panel-Tobit models in combination with the method proposed by Rabe-Hesketh and Skrondal (Avoiding biased versions of Wooldridge’s simple solution to the initial conditions problem, 2013) to tackle the initial conditions problem. The results show that both activities present a high degree of hysteresis, which is higher for imports than for exports pointing to the existence of sunk costs in both activities. Moreover, past productivity does affect the extensive margin of imports, but not of exports and the initial condition status is also only relevant for the import side. Similar outcomes are obtained for the intensive margin of trade.
Anvil microphysical signatures associated with lightning-produced NOx
Authors: Stith J. L. , Basarab B. , Rutledge S. A. , Weinheimer A.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. Thunderstorm anvils were studied during the Deep Convective Clouds and Chemistry experiment (DC3), using in situ measurements and observations of ice particles and NOx together with radar and lightning mapping array measurements. A characteristic ice particle and NOx signature was found in the anvils from three storms, each containing high lightning flash rates in the storm core prior to anvil sampling. This signature exhibits high concentrations of frozen droplets (as measured by a Cloud Droplet Probe) coincident with lower NOx on the edges of the anvil. The central portion of these anvils exhibited a high degree of aggregation of these frozen droplets and higher levels of NOx. In contrast, a deep convective cell with low lightning flash rates had high concentrations of frozen droplets in its anvil's central region. A conceptual model for these results is presented. The abundance of frozen drop (chain) aggregates vs. individual frozen droplets in the central anvil region of the strong thunderstorms that were studied appears to be related to the degree of electrification (marked by increased lightning flash rates). Accordingly, the highest NOx concentrations coexist with regions where the most aggregation of frozen droplets has occurred. These observations between anvil microphysics and lightning/NOx signatures suggest that lightning data may be an important tool to characterize or infer the microphysical, radiative and chemical properties of thunderstorm anvils.
Gamma-ray emitting supernova remnants as the origin of Galactic cosmic rays
Authors: Kroll M. , Becker Tjus J. , Eichmann B. , Nierstenhöfer N.
Published: November 2015

Abstract. It is generally believed that the cosmic ray spectrum below the knee is of Galactic origin, although the exact sources making up the entire cosmic ray energy budget are still unknown. Including effects of magnetic amplification, Supernova Remnants (SNR) could be capable of accelerating cosmic rays up to a few PeV and they represent the only source class with a sufficient non-thermal energy budget to explain the cosmic ray spectrum up to the knee. Now, gamma-ray measurements of SNRs for the first time allow to derive the cosmic ray spectrum at the source, giving us a first idea of the concrete, possible individual contributions to the total cosmic ray spectrum. In this contribution, we use these features as input parameters for propagating cosmic rays from its origin to Earth using GALPROP in order to investigate if these supernova remnants reproduce the cosmic ray spectrum and if supernova remnants in general can be responsible for the observed energy budget.