bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cascading effects of fire retardant on plant–microbe interactions, community composition, and invasion
Authors: Marshall Abigail , Waller Lauren , Lekberg Ylva
Published: May 2016

Climate change, historical fire suppression, and a rise in human movements in urban‐forest boundaries have resulted in an increased use of long‐term fire retardant (LTFR). While LTFR is an effective fire‐fighting tool, it contains high concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus, and little is known about how this nutrient pulse affects terrestrial ecosystems. We used field surveys and greenhouse experiments to quantify effects of LTFR on plant productivity, community composition, and plant interactions with the ubiquitous root symbiont arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). In the field, LTFR applications were associated with persistent shifts in plant communities toward exotic annuals with little or no dependency of AMF. Plants exposed to LTFR were less colonized by AMF, both in field surveys and in the greenhouse, and this was most likely due to the substantial and persistent increase in soil available phosphorus. All plants grew bigger with LTFR in the greenhouse, but the invasive annual cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) benefitted most. While LTFR can control fires, it may cause long‐term changes in soil nutrient availabilities, disrupt plant interactions with beneficial soil microbes, and exasperate invasion by some exotic plants.
Early Bubble Continuous Positive Airway Pressure: Investigating Interprofessional Best Practices for the NICU Team
Authors: Casey Jessica L. , Newberry Desi , Jnah Amy
Published: May 2016

ABSTRACT

Premature neonates delivered <32 completed weeks gestation are unprepared to handle the physiologic demands of extrauterine life. Within the respiratory system, alveolar instability and collapse can cause decreased functional residual capacity, impaired oxygenation, and hypoxemia leading to respiratory distress syndrome. Supportive measures are indicated immediately after birth to establish physiologic stability including bubble continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. CPAP is a noninvasive, gentle mode of ventilation that can mitigate the effects of lung immaturity, but prolonged use can increase the risk for nasal breakdown. Strategies to mitigate this risk must be infused as best practices in the NICU environment. The purpose of this article is to propose an evidence-based best practice care bundle for the early initiation of CPAP in the delivery room and associated skin barrier protection strategies for premature neonates <32 weeks gestation and weighing <1,500 g.
Postsecondary Educators’ Cultural and Institutional Awareness of Issues Faced by African American Students With Disabilities
Authors: Becton Alicia B. , Foster Amanda L. , Chen Roy K.
Published: May 2016

Being a part of an ethnic minority group and a student with a disability (SWD) often presents as a barrier to college retention and graduation rates among members of this marginalized group.

Purpose:To examine educators’ awareness of racial and institutional influences that impact African American SWD.

Method:Data for this study were gathered using a snowball sampling technique that surveyed 145 educators at colleges and universities in 16 U.S. states. An exploratory factor analysis with a varimax rotation procedure was used to group items of the Culture and Disability Awareness Scale for Postsecondary Educators into more specific categories.

Results:A 3-factor solution explaining 58% of the variance was considered to be most interpretable. The extracted factors were entitled as follows: (a) disability-related issues, (b) personal wellness, and (c) faculty involvement.

Conclusion:The results suggest the survey respondents’ level of awareness and knowledge was poorer regarding racial and cultural statements in comparison to institutional influences. Implications for practice, education, and future research are discussed.
Multiuniversity Comparison of Faculty Attitudes and Use of Universal Design Instructional Techniques
Authors: Dallas Bryan K. , Sprong Matthew E. , Kluesner Bryon K.
Published: May 2016

Purpose: To examine postsecondary faculty attitudes and actions toward inclusive teaching strategies (ITS) designed to benefit all learners.

Method: The Inclusive Teaching Strategies Inventory is a self-report survey that measures faculty attitudes toward ITS and traditional academic accommodations, as well as their in-class actions. The authors electronically sent the survey to faculty (N = 422) at 3 universities.

Results: Results concluded that experience with previous disability-related training (e.g., workshops, courses, books/articles, websites) was associated with more positive self-reported attitudes toward ITS and more actual use of ITS in courses. No significant differences in attitudes or actions between the 3 universities were found. Other findings revealed attitudes toward ITS were associated with actions incorporating ITS in courses.

Conclusion: Rehabilitation educators should review ITS guidelines, seek ITS training opportunities on their respective campuses, begin to incorporate ITS where appropriate for specific courses, and measure ITS effectiveness after implementation in courses. Additional research is recommended to examine ITS effectiveness in various postsecondary educational settings.
Promoting Physical and Mental Health Among College Students: A Needs Assessment
Authors: Bezyak Jill , Clark Alena
Published: May 2016

Purpose: To conduct an initial needs assessment of physical and mental health behavior among college students to improve understanding of physical and mental health needs among future helping professionals.

Method: A sample of 24 undergraduate students was used to provide a description of mental health, physical activity, and healthy eating behaviors, along with interest in health promotion activities, during a 15-week course focused on promotion of physical and mental health.

Results: Findings indicate current reports of depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms, along with interest in strategies to decrease stress, increase physical activity, and improve eating habits.

Conclusion: College curriculum must address physical and mental health needs to allow students to guard against future problems and adequately prepare for careers in helping professions.
New Ideas on the Design of the Web-Based Learning System Oriented to Problem Solving From the Perspective of Question Chain and Learning Community
Authors: Zhang Yin , Chu Samuel
Published: May 2016

In recent years, a number of models concerning problem solving systems have been put forward. However, many of them stress on technology and neglect the research of problem solving itself, especially the learning mechanism related to problem solving. In this paper, we analyze the learning mechanism of problem solving, and propose that when designing Web-based problem solving systems, more attention should be paid to the learning mechanism involved in the problem solving process than to the technology itself. On the basis of that, some new ideas on the design of the problem solving systems are put forward in order to promote the rapid development of the Web-based problem solving systems.
Diffusion of Innovations Approach to the Evaluation of Learning Management System Usage in an Open Distance Learning Institution
Authors: Mkhize Peter , Mtsweni Emmanuel Samuel , Buthelezi Portia
Published: May 2016

Academic institutions such as the University of South Africa (Unisa) are using information and communication technology (ICT) in order to conduct their daily primary operations, which are teaching and learning. Unisa is the only distance learning university in South Africa and also in Africa. Unisa currently has the highest number of students on the continent of Africa. In an attempt to bridge the gap between facilitators and students, Unisa introduced a learning management system known as myUnisa. MyUnisa is used by facilitators and students as a tool to conduct teaching and learning, and for communication. To the best of the researcher’s knowledge, factors that influence its acceptance and usage have not been studied prior to this study. The main deciders of the success of technology are the users, as is reflected in the well-established theories and models that exist to evaluate the acceptance of technology and innovation. The objective of this study was to understand the factors that contribute to the usage of myUnisa by students. An online questionnaire was used for data collection, and a quantitative analysis was conducted. Among others, the results reveal that complexity does not have a significant impact on the students' decision to use myUnisa.
Status of E-Learning in Public Universities in Kenya
Authors: Makokha George Lukoye , Mutisya Dorothy Nduko
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this study was to assess the status of e-learning in public universities in Kenya. Data were collected using questionnaires administered to both students and lecturers randomly sampled from seven public universities. Questionnaire responses were triangulated with interviews from key informants and focus group discussions (FGDs). Data were analyzed qualitatively and through use of descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that e-learning is at its infant stage in universities in Kenya. Majority of universities lacked senate approved e-learning policies to guide structured implementation. A few lecturers (32%) and students (35%) used e-learning and few courses (10%) were offered online. Majority of online uploaded modules (87%) were simply lecture notes and not interactive. Again, universities in Kenya lacked requisite ICT infrastructure and skills. The study recommends that universities partner with the private sector to improve ICT infrastructure, build capacity, and standardize e-learning programs in the country.
Factors Affecting Students’ Behavioral Intention to Use LMS at a Turkish Post-Secondary Vocational School
Authors: Cigdem Harun , Ozturk Mustafa
Published: May 2016

There is a substantial increase in the use of learning management systems (LMSs) to support teaching and learning activities in higher education institutions. Despite their benefits, students use them to a limited extend due to a number of factors influencing behaviors. This study executed a three-tier use model to examine the predictors of students’ behavioral intention to use LMSs at a two-year post-secondary military school in Turkey, and the participants consisted of 155 students. The data were collected through an online questionnaire and analyzed through Pearson correlation coefficients and linear regression analyses. Results showed that multimedia instruction had a direct influence on perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, while interactivity had a direct influence only on perceived satisfaction. Perceived satisfaction was also affected by perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. Perceived ease of use exerted a direct influence on perceived usefulness, as well. Moreover, perceived usefulness had a great influence on behavioral intention to use LMSs. As a final point, self-efficacy did not take a position in the model due to its insignificant relationships with the other constructs. It is suggested that an increase in the multimedia features and interactivity of the system could lead to higher perceived usefulness and ease of use among learners, and both factors add to learners’ perceived satisfaction which in turn increases their engagement.
Teacher Perceptions of Learner-Learner Engagement at a Cyber High School
Authors: Borup Jered
Published: May 2016

Distance education has historically contained little or no learner–learner interactions.  Currently the Internet allows for unprecedented levels of learner–learner interaction and has the potential to transform how students learn online.  However, many courses offered online focus more on flexibility and independence than on interaction and collaboration.  Often it is up to the teacher to decide how much learner–learner interaction their courses contain.  However, little research has examined how online high school teachers perceive, value, and facilitate learner–learner interactions.  This case study used teacher surveys and interviews at a full-time online charter high school to examine teacher perceptions of learner–learner interactions.  The analysis identified four student behaviors that positively impact student engagement and learning: befriending, motivating, instructing, and collaborating.  Teachers also identified several drawbacks to learner–learner interactions such as bullying and cheating.  Furthermore, there appeared to be tension between providing for students’ individual needs and requiring collaborative learning opportunities.
Blurring Boundaries in Education: Context and Impact of MOOCs
Authors: Loeckx Johan
Published: May 2016

The opinions on MOOCs go to extremes, covering a wide variety of topics, affecting economy, pedagogy, and computer science which makes it hard to keep oversight. Despite the many excellent research reports and articles, an overview of the bigger picture, providing a holistic qualitative summary of the different opinions, is still very welcome. Special attention is given to the broader social, cultural, and technological context in which these developments come about. In this paper, it is discussed how the educational industry  has received a “wake up call” provoking a global discussion on learning and teaching, accordingly disturbing established boundaries between formal and informal learning, public and for-profit education, teachers and learners and quite intriguingly, between software and teaching practices. Golden opportunities for Artificial Intelligence and Technology Enhanced Learning are unfolding, evidenced by the digitalization movement of education, gamification, and the stringent need for massively scalable (and therefore computerized) personal learning experiences.
Antioxidant Potential Of Lansium Domesticum Corr. Seed Extract In White Male Rat (Rattus Novergicus) Induced By Alcohol
Authors: Subandrate Subandrate , Sinulingga Sadakata , Wahyuni Sri , Altiyan M Fakhri , Fatmawati Fatmawati
Published: May 2016

Lansium domesticum Corr. is a typical plant of Indonesia. The seeds have a lot of useful compounds, such as flavonoids. Flavonoids are a natural compound that can act as antioxidants. The aim of this study was to determine the antioxidant potential of Lansiumdomesticum Corr. seed extract. This study was an experimental research with posttest control group design. The subjects were 32 white male rats. Rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: negative control group was given suspension of Na CMC 1%, dose group I, II and III were given Lansium domesticum Corr. seed extract with each dose of 100mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 300 mg/kg. Observation of the subject's response was done by measuring the levels of glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Analysis ANOVA test showed that there was a group that had an average difference both GSH levels (p=0.00) and MDA levels (p=0.00). Post hoc test analysis for GSH levels and MDA levels showed that only a dose of 100 mg/kg which have significant differences (p=0.00). Thus, Lansiumdomesticum Corr. seed extract has antioxidant potential and optimum dose of 100 mg/kg.
Morphology-Controlled Synthesis Of SrTiO3 Nanocube By Capping Agent-Assisted Solvothermal Method
Authors: Putri Yulia Eka , Alvionita Alvionita , Yanti Rini Rahma , Wellia Diana Vanda
Published: May 2016

The synthesis of SrTiO3 nanocubes have been carried out by solvothermal process using cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) as capping agent to control the particles morphology. The condition of the synthesis was obtained at 160 ºC for 24 hours with molar ratio of SrTiO3 and capping agent was 1 : 1. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern shows that SrTiO3 adopts a perovskite structure with a higher intensity of 110 at 2q:32.33º and the crystallite size calculated from FWHM was found to be 41 nm. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum shows a shift in particular absorption band attributed the interaction between SrTiO3 particles surface and the head group of CTAB molecules. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) image shows the cubic-like particles of SrTiO3, this indicatesthat CTAB successfully functions as capping agent on the synthesis of SrTiO3.
Optimizing Conditions to Cholesterol Adsorbed with Carboxymethyl Chitosan
Authors: Kurniasih Mardiyah , Kartika Dwi , Riyanti Riyanti
Published: May 2016

A research on optimizing conditions to cholesterol adsorbed have been performed. Optimization was performed by varying: contact time, adsorbent weight and temperature of the system's. A full factorial experimental design was used in this study. Characterization performed on the synthesized chitosan and carboxymethyl chitosan including FTIR, water content, ash content, solubility, porosity, and swelling effect. The results showed that carboxymethyl chitosan able to adsorb cholesterol under conditions optimal adsorbent with cholesterol ratio (1:200) with a contact time of 90 minutes at temperature of 40 °C. Meanwhile, at a temperature of 55 °C carboxymethyl chitosan capable of adsorb cholesterol under conditions optimal adsorbent with cholesterol ratio (1:300) with a contact time of 30 minutes. Chitosan and carboxymethyl chitosan synthesized has a water content of 7.4 and 10.2%, ash content of 0.14 and 2.29%, solubility in distilled water at 1.10-5and 1.98.10-3%, solubility in acetic acid 0.02 and 0.04%, porosity at 88.3% and 88.8%, and swelling at 163.13 and 182.98%.
Extraction of Cellulose from Kepok Banana Peel (Musa parasidiaca L.) for Adsorption Procion Dye
Authors: Hariani Poedji Loekitowati , Riyanti Fahma , Asmara Riski Dita
Published: May 2016

The aim of the research was to extract a cellulose from kepok banana peel (Musa parasidiaca L.) and application to removal Procion dye. The extracted cellulose was prepared by dewaxing process to releasing of lignin, bleaching and hemicellulose removal. The cellulose identified by FTIR and SEM-EDS. The efficiency of the cellulose to adsorp Procion dye was evaluated by variation in the initial concentration of dye (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 mg/L), solution pH (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9), and the contact time (15, 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 minutes) at room temperature. The result showed that FTIR spectra of cellulose from kepok banana peel were similar with FTIR spectra of standardcellulose. The morphology of cellulose more homogenous than kepok banana peel powder. It was observed that the optimum adsorption of Procion dye by cellulose was on the initial concentration of 30 mg/L, pH solution of 5 and contact time within 30 minutes. The obtained result that cellulose has removal percentage to adsorp Procion dye more higher than kepok banana peel powder. The adsorption equilibrium showed the Langmuir isotherm was described well for adsorption process (R2 = 0.991) than Freundlich isotherm (R2 = 0.922).
The Case for Technobiology: A Complement to Biotechnology
Authors: Tien James M , Goldschmidt-Clermont Pascal J
Published: May 2016

Engineering has and will continue to have a critical impact on healthcare; the application of technology-based techniques to biological problems can be defined to be technobiology — it can be considered to be the complement to biotechnology, an all too encompassing and overused term. If technobiology can be thus defined, then biotechnology can be conversely defined to be the application of biology-based techniques to technical problems; as a consequence, the two complementary terms, together, can cover the increasingly expanding and complex world where technology and biology intersect. In addition to detailing the scope of technobiology, this paper expands on the technobiology approach of service systems engineering to the development of a healthcare service system that is integrated, adaptive and evidence-based; focuses on a range of example applications in regard to the technobiology areas of information, instrumentation, and insertion; underscores, as an example, the collaborative technobiology efforts between the College of Engineering and the Miller School of Medicine at the University of Miami; and concludes with some additional insights.
Application of Dynamic Programming Method to Marketing Decisions Based on Customer Database
Authors: Zhao Zhongqiu , Li Xiaofei , Ma Baolong , Li Jinlin
Published: May 2016

The paper focuses on modeling longitudinal customer behavior and develops a dynamic programming (DP) to show how customer transaction database may be used to guide marketing decisions such as pricing and the design of customer reward programs. Dynamic programming is not as a tool to marketing decisions making in this research but rather as a description of consumer behavior. The results show that the method provides a means for evaluating the effectiveness of marketing strategy, for example, customer reward programs. Moreover, the findings from the model estimation indicate that reward program can actually increase the customer’s purchase level and stimulate the repeat purchase behavior.
Two-Sided Matching Decision-Making with Uncertain Information Under Multiple States
Authors: Chen Shengqun , Wang Yingming , Shi Hailiu , Lin Yang , Li Meijuan
Published: May 2016

A novel decision-making method based on evidential reasoning is proposed for solving the two-sided matching problem with uncertain information under multiple states in this paper. Firstly, the discernment frame of evidence is constructed for two-sided matching. Secondly, the preference ordinal values given by two-sided decision-makers are transformed into rank belief degrees. On this basis, and with two-sided satisfaction as the goal, two-sided rank belief degrees are taken as pieces of evidence, and satisfaction degrees of two-sided matching are obtained through evidence fusion. Then, a decision-making model based on satisfaction degrees is constructed in order to obtain the matching solution. Finally, an illustrative example demonstrates the application of the proposed approach.
Estimation of Three-Phase Relative Permeabilities for a Water-Alternating-Gas Process by Use of an Improved Ensemble Randomized Maximum-Likelihood Algorithm
Authors: Fan Zhaoqi , Zhang Yin , Yang Daoyong
Published: May 2016

In this paper, a modified ensemble randomized maximum-likelihood (EnRML) algorithm has been developed to estimate three-phase relative permeabilities with consideration of the hysteresis effect by reproducing the actual production data. Ensemble-based history matching uses an ensemble of realizations to construct Monte Carlo approximations of the mean and covariance of the model variables, which can acquire the gradient information from the correlation provided by the ensemble. A power-law model is first used to represent the three-phase relative permeabilities, the coefficients of which can be automatically adjusted until production history is matched. A damping factor is introduced as an adjustment to the step length because a reduced step length is commonly required if an inverse problem is sufficiently nonlinear. A recursive approach for determining the damping factor has been developed to reduce the number of iterations and the computational load of the EnRML algorithm. The restart of reservoir simulations for reducing the cost of reservoir simulations is of significant importance for the EnRML algorithm where iterations are inevitable. By comparing a direct-restart method and an indirect-restart method for numerical simulations, we optimize the restart method used for a specific problem. Subsequently, we validate the proposed methodology by use of a synthetic water-alternating-gas (WAG) displacement experiment and then extend it to match laboratory experiments. The proposed technique has proved to efficiently determine the three-phase relative permeabilities for the WAG processes with consideration of the hysteresis effect, whereas history-matching results are gradually improved as more production data are taken into account. The synthetic scenarios demonstrate that the recursive approach saves 33.7% of the computational expense compared with the trial-and-error method when the maximum iteration is 14. Also, the consistency between the production data and model variables has been well-maintained during the updating processes by use of the direct-restart method, whereas the indirect-restart method fails to minimize the uncertainties associated with the model variables representing three-phase relative permeabilities.
Green Marketing – The growing marketing mantra
Authors: Sharma Dr. Aashish Kumar , Joshi Mr. Yatish
Published: May 2016

In the industrialised nations around the world, both businesses and consumers are concerned about the environment and the future of our planet. As society becomes more concerned with the natural environment, businesses have begun to modify their behaviour in an attempt to address society's "new" concerns. The term “Green Marketing” has been used to describe marketing activities which attempt to reduce the negative social and environmental impacts of existing products and production systems, and which promote various types of goods and services that are considered to be environmentally safe. The idea behind green marketing is to find ways to connect consumers who want to live a lifestyle that is as ecologically responsible as possible. Green marketing in services includes service delivery processes. Other known titles for green marketing are: sustainable marketing, environmental marketing, and ecological marketing. Marketers need to develop strategies which will allow them to overcome major problems associated with green marketing. This is a conceptual paper on green marketing, which attempt to introduce – the terms, concept and importance of green marketing. It also highlights some problems that organization may face to implement green marketing and its managerial implications along with few case points.
Urban Living And Quality Of Life: Exploring The Perception – Expectation Gap
Authors: Singh Smita , Singh Mehul
Published: May 2016

Urban living, once synonymous with better amenities, infrastructural facilities and a higher standard of living, has gradually come under severe strain due to ill-planned and un-restrained growth. Infrastructure development has not kept pace with the rapid expansion of many a tier I and tier II city, leading to congestion, poor quality of water supply, sewerage and housing. The lack of basic amenities reflects on the poor quality of life being led by the average urban dweller. Quality of life is a complex, multi-dimensional concept which is open to diverse interpretations. In its broadest sense, the concept refers to all those factors which improve the 'well-being' of the people. It goes beyond the material indicators of money, access to good and services, infrastructure and so on. The concept is measured using both subjective and objective indicators. While the objective indicators of living standards are easy to measure, the subjective indicators, forming an integral part of an individual's perception of quality of life, are complex. The current study examines the optimal physical attributes desired by the residents of a tier II city. The 28-item scale has been adapted to the SERVQUAL model to study the expectation versus the perception of the quality of life of the residents of the city of Lucknow. The quality of life assessment of the residents can well provide a direction to the planners regarding the factors having the maximum gap and hence, the greatest impact on the urban resident.
Employee Stress in State Bank of India – A Case Study
Authors: Singh Prof. S. K. , Singh Reeta
Published: May 2016

The present study attempts to analyze level of stress and reasons for stress among the employees of State Bank of India. It also intends to examine the effects of age and experience of employees on level of stress. The study is based on a sample of 100 employees working in different branches of State Bank of India in Varanasi city. To measure stress level of employees, Occupational Stress Index (OSI) developed by Srivastava and Singh (1983) was used for measuring employees stress. This scale consists of 46 items, each to be rated on five point scale. The items relate to almost all relevant components of job which cause stress in some way or the other. Mean and quartiles were calculated to assess the level of stress. Further, chi square test and t-test was applied to find out the existence of variance in stress level of employees and to examine impact of age and experience on level of stress of employees. It emerged from the study that 70 percent employees were highly stressed and reasons responsible were poor communication, role ambiguity, work overload, poor peer relationships, and strenuous working conditions. The study further establishes that stress was not affected by age and experience (length of service) of the bank employees. In light of the results, it may be recommended that, there should be proper communication between different hierarchies of the organization, so as to ensure a proper understanding among the employees. The work should be distributed among employees in such a manner that situations of role overload, conflict and ambiguity do not arise.
Revisiting the ranking of outstanding professional sports records
Authors: Liberatore Matthew J. , Myers Bret R. , Nydick Robert L. , Weiss Howard J.
Published: May 2016

Twenty-eight years ago Golden and Wasil (1987) presented the use of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) for ranking outstanding sports records. Since then much has changed with respect to sports and sports records, the application and theory of the AHP, and the availability of the internet for accessing data. In this paper we revisit the ranking of outstanding sports records and build on past work, focusing on a comprehensive set of records from the four major American professional sports. We interviewed and corresponded with two sports experts and applied an AHP-based approach that features both the traditional pairwise comparison and the AHP rating method to elicit the necessary judgments from these experts. The most outstanding sports records are presented, discussed and compared to Golden and Wasil’s results from a quarter century earlier.
The Shrinkage of the Pythagorean exponents
Authors: Chen John , Li Tengfei
Published: May 2016

The Pythagorean expectation is a formula designed by Bill James in the 1980s for estimating the number of games that a baseball team is expected to win. The formula has since been applied in basketball, hockey, football, and soccer. When used to assess National Basketball Association (NBA) teams, the optimal Pythagorean exponent is generally believed to be between 14 and 17. In this study, we empirically investigated the accuracy of the formula in the NBA by using data from the 1993-1994 to 2013-2014 seasons. This study confirmed the results of previous studies, which found that the Pythagorean exponent is slightly higher than 14 in the fit scenario, in which the strengths and winning percentage of a team are calculated using data from the same period. However, to predict future winning percentages according to the current evaluations of team strengths, the optimal Pythagorean exponent in the prediction scenario decreases substantially from 14. The shrinkage factor varies from 0.5 early in the season to nearly 1 toward the end of the season. Two main reasons exist for the decrease: the current evaluated strengths correlate with the current winning percentage more strongly than they do with the future winning percentage, and the scales of strengths evaluated in the early or middle part of a season tend to exceed those evaluated at the end of the season because of the evening out of randomness or the law of averages. The prediction accuracy decreases with time over a season. Four measurements of strength were investigated and the ratio of total points scored to total points allowed was the most useful predictor. Point difference exhibited nearly the same accuracy, whereas the ratio of games won to games lost was somewhat less accurate. An explanation of Dean Oliver’s choice of 16.5 as the Pythagorean exponent is offered.
An improvement to the baseball statistic “Pythagorean Wins”
Authors: Heumann Jay
Published: May 2016

This paper will introduce a new version of the commonly used “Pythagorean wins” statistic, which improves on the traditional method by means of a mathematical adjustment. The new statistic is called “pairwise” Pythagorean wins, and it is demonstrated, over a 30-year data set, to have a smaller overall root mean square error than the original Pythagorean formula.
A Simple Predator-Prey Population Model with Rich Dynamics
Authors: Li Bing , Liu Shengqiang , Cui Jing’an , Li Jia
Published: May 2016

A non-smooth switched harvest on predators is introduced into a simple predator-prey model with logistical growth of the prey and a bilinear functional response. If the density of the predator is below a switched value, the harvesting rate is linear; otherwise, it is constant. The model links the well studied predator-prey model with constant harvesting to that with a proportional harvesting rate. It is shown that when the net reproductive number for the predator is greater than unity, the system is permanent and there may exist multiple positive equilibria due to the effects of the switched harvest, a saddle-node bifurcation, a limit cycle, and the coexistence of a stable equilibrium and a unstable circled inside limit cycle and a stable circled outside limit cycle. When the net reproductive number is less than unity, a backward bifurcation from a positive equilibrium occurs, which implies that the stable predator-extinct equilibrium may coexist with two coexistence equilibria. In this situation, reducing the net reproductive number to less than unity is not enough to enable the predator to go extinct. Numerical simulations are provided to illustrate the theoretical results. It seems that the model possesses new complex dynamics compared to the existing harvesting models.
Superhydrophobic Surfaces Created by Elastic Instability of PDMS
Authors: Sabbah Abbas , Youssef Ayman , Damman Pascal
Published: May 2016

Lotus flowers, rose petals, some plant leaves and insects have a naturally super-hydrophobic surface. In fact, the surface of a Lotus leaf is covered by micro and nano structures mixed with wax, which makes its surface superhydrophobic. In microfluidics, superhydrophobicity is an important factor in the rheometers on a chip. It is also sought in other complex fluids applications like the self-cleaning and the antibacterial materials. The wettability of the surface of solid support can be modified by altering its chemical composition. This means functionalizing the interface molecules to different chemical properties, and/or forming a thin film on the surface. We can also influence its texturing by changing its roughness. Despite considerable efforts during the last decade, superhydrophobic surfaces usually involve, among others, microfabrication processes, such as photolithography technique. In this study, we propose an original and simple method to create superhydrophobic surfaces by controlling elastic instability of poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) films. Indeed, we demonstrate that the self-organization of wrinkles on top of non-wettable polymer surfaces leads to surperhydrophobic surfaces with contact angles exceeding 150°. We studied the transition Wenzel-Cassie, which indicated that the passage of morphology drops “impaled” to a type of morphology “fakir” were the strongest topographies.
Comparative Analysis of Atmospheric Glyoxal Column Densities Retrieved from MAX-DOAS Observations in Pakistan and during MAD-CAT Field Campaign in Mainz, Germany
Authors: Khokhar Muhammad , Naveed Syeda , Butt Junaid , Abbas Zain
Published: May 2016

Photolysis of glyoxal (CHOCHO) and other volatile organic compounds (VOC) in the presence of NOx results in tropospheric ozone and secondary organic pollutants formation. Glyoxal, with a relatively short lifetime, plays an important role in VOC formation in the planetary boundary layer. This study presents a comparative analysis of CHOCHO retrieval from mini MAX-DOAS observations at two different monitoring sites in Germany and Pakistan. Firstly, CHOCHO differential slant column densities (DSCDs) were retrieved by using differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS) technique during a field campaign called MAD-CAT (Multi Axis DOAS-Comparison Campaign for Aerosols and Trace gases) from 18 June to 17 July 2013 in Mainz, Germany (49.965387°N, 8.242531°E). A second dataset was acquired from 18 June to 17 July 2015 at ground-based measurements taken with mini MAX-DOAS at IESE (Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering), NUST (National University of Sciences and Technology) Islamabad (33.6416°N, 72.9835°E), Pakistan. Tropospheric vertical column densities (VCDs) of CHOCHO were derived from measured DSCDs by using geometric air mass factor approach. Results show that CHOCHO emissions from biogenic sources are largely driven by actinic flux. Covariance of ambient temperature and relative humidity was also investigated at both sites. Significant correlation between actinic flux and CHOCHO VCDs (r > 0.8) along with similar diurnal variation was observed at both monitoring sites. Quantitative difference observed in CHOCHO VCDs is primarily triggered by the difference in actinic flux and vegetation profiles of both monitoring sites.
Genetic Approaches to Study Plant Responses to Environmental Stresses: An Overview
Authors: Moustafa Khaled , Cross Joanna
Published: May 2016

The assessment of gene expression levels is an important step toward elucidating gene functions temporally and spatially. Decades ago, typical studies were focusing on a few genes individually, whereas now researchers are able to examine whole genomes at once. The upgrade of throughput levels aided the introduction of systems biology approaches whereby cell functional networks can be scrutinized in their entireties to unravel potential functional interacting components. The birth of systems biology goes hand-in-hand with huge technological advancements and enables a fairly rapid detection of all transcripts in studied biological samples. Even so, earlier technologies that were restricted to probing single genes or a subset of genes still have their place in research laboratories. The objective here is to highlight key approaches used in gene expression analysis in plant responses to environmental stresses, or, more generally, any other condition of interest. Northern blots, RNase protection assays, and qPCR are described for their targeted detection of one or a few transcripts at a once. Differential display and serial analysis of gene expression represent non-targeted methods to evaluate expression changes of a significant number of gene transcripts. Finally, microarrays and RNA-seq (next-generation sequencing) contribute to the ultimate goal of identifying and quantifying all transcripts in a cell under conditions or stages of study. Recent examples of applications as well as principles, advantages, and drawbacks of each method are contrasted. We also suggest replacing the term “Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)” with another less confusing synonym such as “RNA-seq”, “high throughput sequencing”, or “massively parallel sequencing” to avoid confusion with any future sequencing technologies.
An Overview of Recent Advances of the Catalytic Selective Oxidation of Ethane to Oxygenates
Authors: Armstrong Robert , Hutchings Graham , Taylor Stuart
Published: May 2016

The selective partial oxidation of short chain alkanes is a key challenge within catalysis research. Direct ethane oxidation to oxygenates is a difficult aim, but potentially rewarding, and it could lead to a paradigm shift in the supply chain of several bulk chemicals. Unfortunately, low C–H bond reactivity and kinetically labile products are just some reasons affecting the development and commercialisation of such processes. Research into direct ethane oxidation is therefore disparate, with approaches ranging from oxidation in the gas phase at high temperatures to enzyme catalysed hydroxylation under ambient conditions. Furthermore, in overcoming the barrier posed by the chemically inert C–H bond a range of oxidants have been utilised. Despite years of research, this remains an intriguing topic from both academic and commercial perspectives. Herein we describe some recent developments within the field of catalytic ethane oxidation focusing on the formation of oxygenated products, whilst addressing the key challenges which are still to be overcome.
Effects of Different Factors on Electrical Equipment UV Corona Discharge Detection
Authors: Li Zhenyu , Li Licheng , Jiang Xingliang , Hu Jianlin , Zhang Zhijin , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2016

As a non-contact discharge detection method, ultraviolet (UV) imaging can rapidly, directly, and securely detect corona discharges. Therefore, UV imaging has been widely applied to power systems. To study the influences of different factors on UV corona discharge detection, two typical types of UV imagers (DayCor®Superb and CoroCAM®6D) were utilized. Results show that the observation angle has little impact on UV detection if no obstacles block the detection line of sight. Given that different UV imagers have different optimal imager gains, photon numbers under different gains could be calibrated to the values under optimal gains in accordance with the gain correction formula. Photon numbers decrease with the increase in the square of observation distance. Detection results under different observation distances could be corrected to the contrast distance after the detection of electrical equipment. The photon numbers of different UV imager types could be corrected in accordance with the instrumental correction factor. The results of this study can provide references to improve the applications and standardizations of UV imaging technology in corona discharge detection.
A Multi-Period Framework for Coordinated Dispatch of Plug-in Electric Vehicles
Authors: Huang Yinuo , Guo Chuangxin , Ding Yi , Wang Licheng , Zhu Bingquan , Xu Lizhong
Published: May 2016

Coordinated dispatch of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) with renewable energies has been proposed in recent years. However, it is difficult to achieve effective PEV dispatch with a win-win result, which not only optimizes power system operation, but also satisfies the requirements of PEV owners. In this paper, a multi-period PEV dispatch framework, combining day-ahead dispatch with real-time dispatch, is proposed. On the one hand, the day-ahead dispatch is used to make full use of wind power and minimize the fluctuation of total power in the distribution system, and schedule the charging/discharging power of PEV stations for each period. On the other hand, the real-time dispatch arranges individual PEVs to meet the charging/discharging power demands of PEV stations given by the day-ahead dispatch. To reduce the dimensions of the resulting large-scale, non-convex problem, PEVs are clustered according to their travel information. An interval optimization model is introduced to obtain the problem solution of the day-ahead dispatch. For the real-time dispatch, a priority-ordering method is developed to satisfy the requirements of PEV owners with fast response. Numerical studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the presented framework.
Black Start Strategy for PV-ESS Multi-Microgrids with Three-Phase/Single-Phase Architecture
Authors: Xu Zhirong , Yang Ping , Zeng Zhiji , Peng Jiajun , Zhao Zhuoli
Published: May 2016

With the rapid development of microgrids (MGs) in recent years, it is anticipated that combinations of multiple microgrids—multi-microgrids (MMGs)—will gradually become a new form of power grid. A safe and efficient black start strategy for MMGs is in urgent demand because of their complicated structure and control systems. In this paper, first, we analyze the topology and control system of residential-type MMGs with three-phase/single-phase (TP/SP) architecture. Second, a black start strategy based on a hierarchical control scheme is presented, including the selection strategy for the main power supply and master microgrid, the stand-alone operation strategy, and the grid-connected operation strategy. After the selection of the main power supplies, the master MG is determined. Hereby, all sub-microgrids (SMGs) execute the stand-alone algorithm. When the synchronous connection condition is satisfied, the slave SMGs connect to the master MG who provides the voltage and frequency support. Meanwhile, the control algorithm transfers to the grid-connected algorithm, with the grid dispatching value set to zero. Finally, experimental results from the MMG experimental setup in the Clean Energy Technology Laboratory (CETLAB) are presented to verify the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed black start strategy.
Global Research on Artificial Intelligence from 1990–2014: Spatially-Explicit Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Niu Jiqiang , Tang Wenwu , Xu Feng , Zhou Xiaoyan , Song Yanan
Published: May 2016

In this article, we conducted the evaluation of artificial intelligence research from 1990–2014 by using bibliometric analysis. We introduced spatial analysis and social network analysis as geographic information retrieval methods for spatially-explicit bibliometric analysis. This study is based on the analysis of data obtained from database of the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-Expanded) and Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science (CPCI-S). Our results revealed scientific outputs, subject categories and main journals, author productivity and geographic distribution, international productivity and collaboration, and hot issues and research trends. The growth of article outputs in artificial intelligence research has exploded since the 1990s, along with increasing collaboration, reference, and citations. Computer science and engineering were the most frequently-used subject categories in artificial intelligence studies. The top twenty productive authors are distributed in countries with a high investment of research and development. The United States has the highest number of top research institutions in artificial intelligence, producing most single-country and collaborative articles. Although there is more and more collaboration among institutions, cooperation, especially international ones, are not highly prevalent in artificial intelligence research as expected. The keyword analysis revealed interesting research preferences, confirmed that methods, models, and application are in the central position of artificial intelligence. Further, we found interesting related keywords with high co-occurrence frequencies, which have helped identify new models and application areas in recent years. Bibliometric analysis results from our study will greatly facilitate the understanding of the progress and trends in artificial intelligence, in particular, for those researchers interested in domain-specific AI-driven problem-solving. This will be of great assistance for the applications of AI in alternative fields in general and geographic information science, in particular.
Correction: Chan, Y.-Y., et al. The Constituents of Michelia compressa var. formosana and Their Bioactivities. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2014, 15, 10926–10935
Authors: Chan Yu-Yi , Juang Shin-Hun , Huang Guan-Jhong , Liao Yu-Ren , Chen Yu-Fon , Wu Chia-Che , Chang Hui-Ting , Wu Tian-Shung
Published: May 2016

The authors wish to make two changes to their published paper [1]. [...]