bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health Information Systems, eHealth Strategy, and the Management of Health Records
Authors: Katuu Shadrack
Published: February 2017

South Africa's health sector faces two main transformation challenges: inequity and a legacy of fragmentation. This chapter traces the history of health policy development in the country in seven phases from the 17th century to the present time. It describes the efforts in transformation made through the promulgation of the National Health Act in 2003 and the eHealth Strategy in 2012. The chapter explores the utility of maturity assessment in assessing whether transformation goals through an analysis of five maturity models: Digital Preservation Capability maturity model, eHealth maturity model, Enterprise Content Management maturity model, Health Normative Standards Framework maturity model, and Records Management Capacity Assessment System. South Africa is already using two of the five models demonstrating that is not just reliant on technology but has developed strategies and principles to guide the transformation process. The chapter argues for more expansive adoption of maturity assessment to cover the full records lifecycle.
Technoethics and Digital Democracy for Future Citizens
Authors: Luppicini Rocci
Published: February 2017

In a digital democracy, education should help foster the development of ethically, socially, and ecologically responsible citizens capable of living autonomously and harmoniously within a networked society. Unfortunately, contemporary digital technology, communication media and education tend to give rise to conformity, individual satisfaction, and short-term goal seeking. Overcoming current obstacles requires modifying current values and strategies to better align digital technology use with democratic ideals and the capacity for harmonious long-term survival. This paper presents a technoethical systems perspective to help disentangle core threats to digital democracy and to highlight selected educational and communication tools needed to leverage future citizens within a digital democracy.
Digital Media, Civic Literacy, and Civic Engagement
Authors: Lacharite J. R.
Published: February 2017

It has been asserted that digital media can improve literacy, engagement, and activism so long as it is promoted and judiciously encouraged by state, political, and societal actors committed to expanding the scope of policy-making to those that otherwise feel ‘left-out'. More specifically, it has been averred that social media, ‘clicktivism,' and electronic referendums have the potential to educate and energize voters on the day-to-day challenges that confront government, and give them a direct say into how certain issues ought to be addressed. However, this chapter argues that while there are still good reasons to be optimistic, looking forward, we also need to critically appraise the false promise(s) of digital media, and do so in a more nuanced fashion. It will be suggested that Canada's comparably low civic literacy rates provide us with some insight into the underlying perils of plebiscitarianism should a more sincere form digital empowerment prevail. It will also be argued that political institutions, culture, Internet usage, populism should also be accounted for.
Youth Online Cultural Participation and Bilibili
Authors: Yin Yiyi , Fung Anthony
Published: February 2017

This chapter examines one of the most popular youth open platform and video site in China, Bilibili, in which instant, bullet-commenting technology is built in to enhance the participation of the online users. Facilitated by this specific interactive technology, the new form of online commenting system embedded on Bilibili allows members to post and share videos—from self-created ones to illegal Japanese animation—and to engage other participants on an equal basis. As a subcultural space, Bilibili enables youth to organize their own community. In addition, it provides the technological infrastructure for the youths to play with certain form of public discussions. In careful examination of youth cultural practice and its wrestling with commercial force particularly, this study argues that the carnivalesque in a subcultural territory, though a de-politicalized public space, embrace potentials of cultural and political resistance toward capitals and dominant power by ways of poaching and transcoding them into their own subcultural context through online chatting and comments.
Empowering Citizens Through Virtual and Alternate Reality
Authors: Camilleri Vanessa , Dingli Alexiei , Montebello Matthew
Published: February 2017

2016 is the year when virtual and augmented reality takes a boost. We've already seen various Virtual reality (VR) headsets being released and Microsoft new Hololens is finally being realised thus paving the way for Augmented Realities (AR). In this chapter, we will explore further the use of VR in two particular domains in which governments are facing difficulties. The first topic is related to disorders and in the second domain we will consider migration. We will do this by creating new VR experiences, which present to the users alternative realities. The context we will be looking at is that of teacher training. As teaches they cannot fully comprehend what an autistic child or a child migrant experiences simply because they haven't lived through that experience themselves. Thus we have created an innovative inter-faculty collaboration at the University of Malta aimed at addressing this challenge. Previous studies into the importance of VR for teaching and learning, have described the ways in which people immersed in this alternative reality have been affected.
Gendered character of barrenness in an African context: An African pastoral study
Authors: Baloyi Magezi E.
Published: February 2017

The importance of children for African people has been prioritised above many other reasons for marriage. Besides the fact that every childless marriage has only a slim chance of survival, women are the main objects of this pressure. Some African researchers have revealed that it is usually women who are traditionally held responsible for childlessness. It becomes evident when a man takes a second wife without first seeking medical proof of his wife’s barrenness. In other instances, suspicions force men to divorce women or claim their bride price back as a result of childlessness. Besides being a humiliation for women, it is also a gender inequality issue that deserves theological attention and research to make suggestions and advise on how to reduce or eliminate some practices that promote the subjection of women. The purpose of this article is to research how gender inequality and women abuse continue to manifest because of barrenness. A theoretical framework will direct the research methods – the reading of African-based books, articles, newspapers and other relevant media sources will be utilised.
Investigating the relationship between work values and work ethics: A South African perspective
Authors: Jonck Petronella , Van der Walt Freda , Sobayeni Nthombi
Published: February 2017

Orientation: As a result of the proliferation of unethical behaviour in the workplace, the study of work ethics has received new impetus.Research purpose: The research study sought to determine the relationship between work ethics and work values, with the objective of determining whether work ethics statistically significantly predict work values.Motivation for the study: As work ethics (i.e. behavioural intent) are a determinant of work values (i.e. overt behaviour), researchers are investigating their potential in preventing unethical behaviour.Research design, approach and method: A descriptive quantitative research design was employed in the study. A survey was conducted using the Multidimensional Work Ethic Profile and the Values Scale, which in previous studies have produced acceptable Cronbach’s alpha coefficients. Data were collected from 301 respondents in one geographical area in South Africa.Main findings: Work values did not appear to be highly esteemed by respondents, as only 6 of the 22 dimensions had a positive score. However, all seven dimensions of work ethics had positive scores. A negative correlation was found between work ethics and work values. In addition, work ethics predicted 9% of the variance in work values, providing sufficient evidence to accept the postulated research hypothesis.Practical implications: The findings of the study could be used by human resource managers to promote ethical behaviour, by focusing not only on work ethics but also on the relationship between work ethics and work values.Contribution: The study provides evidence of a relationship between work ethics and work behaviours, such as work values, within the South African context, and it thus addresses a research gap in this area.
Exploring career advancement challenges people with disabilities are facing in the South African work context
Authors: Potgieter Ingrid L. , Coetzee Melinde , Ximba Themba
Published: February 2017

Orientation: South Africa has faced a number of discriminatory practices in the past. Most of these practices are still present today. Although a considerate amount of attention has been given to discrimination based on gender, race and religion, limited emphasis has been placed on discrimination based on disability, specifically within the workplace.Research purpose: The objective of the study was to explore the perceptions of individuals living with a disability with regards to career advancement challenges they face in the South African workplace.Motivation for study: The research literature shows that irrespective of employment equity legislation, employees with disabilities have restricted opportunities to advance in their careers. Research is needed to assist these employees with their career development.Research design, approach and method: A qualitative research design with an exploratory approach was followed. Probability, purposeful and snowballing sampling techniques were applied in this study on 15 employed individuals with declared disabilities. The data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews and the verbatim transcriptions were analysed by content analysis.Main findings/results: The findings indicated that people with disabilities generally experience career advancement challenges and reach career plateau. Managers and colleagues’ lack of knowledge about disability has an adverse impact on the careers of people living with a disability. The study found that human resource practices, especially promotion opportunities, discriminate against employees with disabilities. Furthermore, the study further indicated that there is prejudice against invisible disabilities, and as a result, employees are reluctant to declare their disability.Practical implications: Human resource practitioners and managers need to recognise the influence that disabilities have on the career advancement of individuals living with a disability in order to assist such individuals in their own career development.Contribution: The findings of this study will help companies improve their practices on the integration and inclusion of employees with disabilities and also on decision-making regarding their careers.
Euler-type Relative Equilibria and their Stability in Spaces of Constant Curvature
Authors: Pérez-Chavela Ernesto , Manuel Sánchez-Cerritos Juan
Published: February 2017

We consider three point positivemasses moving onS2andH2. An Eulerian-relative equilibrium is a relative equilibrium where the three masses are on the same geodesic. In this paper we analyze the spectral stability of these kind of orbits where the mass at the middle is arbitrary and the masses at the ends are equal and located at the same distance from the central mass. For the case of S2, we found a positive measure set in the set of parameters where the relative equilibria are spectrally stable, and we give a complete classiûcation of the spectral stability of these solutions, in the sense that, except on an algebraic curve in the space of parameters, we can determine if the corresponding relative equilibriumis spectrally stable or unstable. OnH2, in the elliptic case, we prove that generically all Eulerian-relative equilibria are unstable; in the particular degenerate case when the two equal masses are negligible, we get that the corresponding solutions are spectrally stable. For the hyperbolic case we consider the system where the mass in the middle is negligible; in this case the Eulerian-relative equilibria are unstable.
Immunity to Radiated Electromagnetic Fields; 10 kHz to 200 MHz--Crawford TEM Cell and 10 kHz to 5 GHz--Wideband TEM Cell
Authors:   Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Standards
Published: February 2017

This part of SAE J1113 specifies TEM cell test methods and procedures for testing the electromagnetic immunity of electronic components (DUTs) for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and similar applications. Methods using the constant cross-section TEM cell (Crawford TEM) and the flared cross-section TEM cell (wideband TEM) are discussed in the document. The electromagnetic disturbance considered in this part of SAE J1113 will be limited to continuous narrowband electromagnetic fields. TEM cells produce both electric and magnetic fields simultaneously. The test is directly applicable to DUTs whose height is less than 1/3 the septum height; somewhat larger modules can be tested with conditions applied. The Crawford TEM and wideband TEM cell may be used for testing within the 1/3 height condition without demonstrating field uniformity within the cell, if the test set-up complies with the other provisions of this standard.

This test can be used for two purposes:

a. Testing the immunity of DUTs with major field coupling to the DUT and wiring harness;
b. Testing the immunity of DUTs with major field coupling to the DUT.

The methods defined in this document have some significant differences from ISO 11452-3. Careful deliberation has been given to the need to diverge from the international standard. The primary differences are the method of bringing leads from the DUT out of the TEM cell and the inclusion of the wideband TEM cell.

Immunity measurements of complete vehicles are generally only possible by the vehicle manufacturer. The reasons, for example, are the high costs of a vehicle sized absorber lined chamber, preserving the secrecy of prototypes or the large number of different vehicle models. Therefore, for research, development and quality control a laboratory measuring method shall be applied by the component manufacturer.
Electromagnetic Compatibility Measurement Procedures for Integrated Circuits—Integrated Circuit EMC Measurement Procedures—General and Definitions
Authors:   Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Standards
Published: February 2017

This SAE Recommended Practice provides supporting information for the emission and immunity measurement procedures defined in the SAE J1752 series of documents.
Hose Assemblies, Rubber, Hydraulic, Steel Wire Reinforced - Part 2 - Ordering Information
Authors:   Hydraulic Hose and Hose Fittings Committee
Published: February 2017

This SAE Standard covers ordering information for steel wire reinforced rubber hose assemblies using connectors specified in SAE J516 for use in hydraulic systems using petroleum based hydraulic fluids with maximum working pressures of 1.7 to 42 MPa. See SAE J1754-2, Table 8 for hose operating temperature ranges and identification codes.

Note: Working pressure is defined as maximum system pressure.
Physical Layer, 250K bits/s, Twisted Shielded Pair
Authors:   Truck Bus Control and Communications Network Committee
Published: February 2017

These SAE Recommended Practices are intended for light- and heavy-duty vehicles on- or off-road as well as appropriate stationary applications which use vehicle derived components (e.g., generator sets). Vehicles of interest include but are not limited to: on- and off-highway trucks and their trailers; construction equipment; and agricultural equipment and implements.
Application - Configurable Messaging
Authors:   Truck Bus Control and Communications Network Committee
Published: February 2017

The SAE J1939 documents are intended for light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles used on or off road as well as appropriate stationary applications which use vehicle derived components (e.g. generator sets). Vehicles of interest include, but are not limited to, on- and off-highway trucks and their trailers, construction equipment, and agricultural equipment and implements.

The purpose of these documents is to provide an open interconnect system for electronic systems. It is the intention of these documents to allow Electronic Control Units to communicate with each other by providing a standard architecture.

This particular document, SAE J1939-74, describes the message structure for a set of messages which enable the user to determine and announce to others on the network, the parameter placement within a particular message from the special set of messages defined within this document.
Application Layer - Generator Sets and Industrial
Authors:   Truck Bus Control and Communications Network Committee
Published: February 2017

The SAE J1939 documents are intended for light, medium, and
heavy-duty vehicles used on or off road as well as appropriate
stationary applications which use vehicle derived components (e.g.,
Generator sets). Vehicles of interest include, but are not limited
to: on- and off-highway trucks and their trailers, construction
equipment, and agricultural equipment and implements.

The purpose of these documents is to provide an open
interconnect system for electronic systems. It is the intention of
these documents to allow Electronic Control Units to communicate
with each other by providing a standard architecture.

This particular document, SAE J1939-75, describes the parameters
and parameter groups that are predominantly associated with
monitoring and control generators and driven equipment in electric
power generation and industrial applications. Parameters and
parameter groups that may be associated with monitoring and control
of the power units, such as engines, turbines, etc, that power the
generators and driven industrial equipment and which may be applied
in on- and off-highway applications, shall be documented in SAE
J1939-71.
Connections for On-Board Road Vehicle Electrical Wiring Harnesses--Part 2: Tests and General Performance Requirements
Authors:   Connector Systems Standards Committee
Published: February 2017

This SAE Standard defines tests methods and general performance requirements of single-pole and multiple connectors for on-board electrical wiring harnesses of road vehicles.

These requirements are not intended for connections internal to electronic devices.

This document applies to connectors designed to be disconnected after mounting in the vehicle in the case of repair and/or maintenance.
Universal Joint End Yoke Connection (Earwork)
Authors:   Drivetrain Standards Committee
Published: February 2017

This document specifies the main dimensions and tolerances, which affect interchangeability between end yoke earwork for the most common North American used universal joints. Dimensions and tolerances of the mating universal joints are left to the discretion of the universal joint manufacturers.

The term “Earwork” refers to the configuration and geometry defining end yoke connections directly provided for universal joint cross attachment of drivelines.

Earwork for certain styles of universal joint connections and flange connections have for a long time been proprietary to certain manufacturers. Over years of usage, proprietary rights have expired and the industry, as a whole, has used these earworks as standard. In an effort to tabulate some of the long established practices, the following SAE Recommended Practice has been compiled. Manufacturers do from time to time, as the need arises, change tolerances or fits to better enhance component performance. This document has been prepared as a reference, and is a snap shot of current technology.

The half round (strap connection), full round (retainer plate type connection) and wing type connection are covered in this document. For an understanding of these end yoke styles, please refer to SAE J901.

There are earwork forms that still are proprietary and are not covered by this document.
Heavy Duty Vehicle Lubricating Greases
Authors:   Fuels and Lubricants TC 3  Driveline and Chassis Lubrication
Published: February 2017

This SAE Recommended Practice was developed by SAE, and the section “Standard Classification and Specification for Service Greases” cooperatively with ASTM, and NLGI. It is intended to assist those concerned with the design of heavy duty vehicle components, and with the selection and marketing of greases for the lubrication of certain of those components on heavy duty vehicles like trucks and buses. The information contained herein will be helpful in understanding the terms related to properties, designations, and service applications of heavy duty vehicle greases.
VHDL-AMS Statistical Analysis Packages
Authors:   Electronic Design Automation Standards Committee
Published: February 2017

This document specifies the interface and the behavior of the VHDL-AMS packages for use in modeling statistical behavior. These packages are useful in defining the statistical variation of parameters of electrical, electronic, and mechatronic components and sub-systems. These can then be used with simulation tools to analyze the performance and reliability of systems composed of these components and sub-systems.

Providing a standard definition of the package interfaces and their behavior is intended to facilitate the exchange of models between component and system manufacturers and the use of different CAE simulation tools.

The SAE statistical package supports the statistical modeling of design parameters subject to tolerances for designs described using the VHDL or VHDL-AMS languages. The performance of a design that uses this package to model parameter tolerances may be analyzed by a Monte Carlo simulation, which consists of multiple simulation runs of the design, each run with a different set of parameter values according to their statistical distributions. The Monte Carlo simulation will yield an estimate of the behavior of the design subject to the parameter tolerances. Additionally, the package may be used to perform an Extreme Value Analysis of a design, that is, an analysis that computes the worst case behavior of the design.

The SAE statistical package does not support other statistical modeling needs, for example the modeling of statistical variations of the arrival of events in a queue, or any other situation where a value exhibits a statistical behavior during a single simulation.
Performance Levels and Methods of Measurement of Electromagnetic Compatibility of Vehicles, Boats (up to 15 m), and Machines (16.6 Hz to 18 GHz)
Authors:   Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Standards
Published: February 2017

This SAE Standard covers the measurement of radio frequency radiated emissions and immunity. Each part details the requirements for a specific type of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) test and the applicable frequency range of the test method.

The methods are applicable to a vehicle or device powered by an internal combustion engine or electric motor. Operation of all engines (main and auxiliary) of a vehicle or device is included. All equipment normally operating when the engine is running is included. Operator controlled equipment is included or excluded as specified in the individual document parts.
The recommended levels apply only to complete vehicles in their final manufactured form. Vehicle-mounted rectifiers used for charging in electric vehicles are included in Part 2 of this series of documents when operated in their charging mode.
Emissions from intentional radiators are not controlled by this document. (See applicable, appropriate regulatory documents.) The immunity of commercial mains powered equipment to overvoltages and line transients is not covered by this document.
Test Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Disturbance Characteristics of Vehicles, Motorboats, and Spark-Ignited Engine-Driven Devices
Authors:   Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Standards
Published: February 2017

The limits in this SAE Standard are designed to provide protection for receivers of all types of radio transmissions when used in buildings. As a result, receivers of radio transmissions used out-of-doors may not be protected by the limits specified. This publication applies to the emission of electromagnetic energy which may cause interference to radio reception and which is emitted from: a. vehicles propelled by an internal combustion engine, electrical means or both (see SAE J551/1 for definition); b. motorboats propelled by an internal combustion engine, electrical means or both; and c. devices equipped with spark-ignited internal combustion engines (see SAE J551/1 for definition). This publication does not apply to aircraft, traction systems (railway, tramway, and trolley bus), or incomplete vehicles.
Test Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Disturbance Characteristics of Vehicles and Devices, Broadband and Narrowband, 150 kHz to 1000 MHz
Authors:   Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Standards
Published: February 2017

This SAE Standard contains test limits and procedures for the measurement of radio disturbances in the frequency range of 150 kHz to 1000 MHz. The document applies to any electronic/electrical component intended for use in vehicles. Refer to International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Publications for details of frequency allocations. The test limits are intended to provide protection for receivers installed in a vehicle from disturbances produced by components/ modules in the same vehicle. The receiver types to be protected are: broadcast radio and TV, land-mobile radio, radio telephone, amateur and citizens' radio. The limits in this document are recommended and subject to modification as agreed between the vehicle manufacturer and the component supplier. This document shall also be applied by manufacturers and suppliers of components and equipment which are to be added and connected to the vehicle harness or to an on-board power connector after delivery of the vehicle. This document does not include protection of electronic control systems from RF emissions, or from transient or pulse type voltage fluctuations. These subjects are covered in other sections of SAE J551 and in SAE J1113.
Initiator Technical Requirements and Validation
Authors:   USCAR
Published: February 2017

This specification establishes the design, performance, and validation requirements for the initiator assembly used in airbag modules, seatbelt pretensioners and/or any other Electro-Explosive Devices (EED).
Attributions of meteorological and emission factors to the 2015 winter severe haze pollution episodes in China's Jing-Jin-Ji area
Authors: Liu Tingting , Gong Sunling , He Jianjun , Yu Meng , Wang Qifeng , Li Huairui , Liu Wei , Zhang Jie , Li Lei , Wang Xuguan , Li Shuli , Lu Yanli , Du Haitao , Wang Yaqiang , Zhou Chunhong , Liu Hongli , Zhao Qichao
Published: February 2017

Abstract. In the 2015 winter month of December, northern China witnessed the most severe air pollution phenomena since the 2013 winter haze events occurred. This triggered the first-ever red alert in the air pollution control history of Beijing, with an instantaneous fine particulate matter (PM2. 5) concentration over 1 mg m−3. Air quality observations reveal large temporal–spatial variations in PM2. 5 concentrations over the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (Jing-Jin-Ji) area between 2014 and 2015. Compared to 2014, the PM2. 5 concentrations over the area decreased significantly in all months except November and December of 2015, with an increase of 36 % in December. Analysis shows that the PM2. 5 concentrations are significantly correlated with the local meteorological parameters in the Jing-Jin-Ji area such as the stable conditions, relative humidity (RH), and wind field. A comparison of two month simulations (December 2014 and 2015) with the same emission data was performed to explore and quantify the meteorological impacts on the PM2. 5 over the Jing-Jin-Ji area. Observation and modeling results show that the worsening meteorological conditions are the main reasons behind this unusual increase of air pollutant concentrations and that the emission control measures taken during this period of time have contributed to mitigate the air pollution ( ∼  9 %) in the region. This work provides a scientific insight into the emission control measures vs. the meteorology impacts for the period.
Chemical characterization and source apportionment of submicron aerosols measured in Senegal during the 2015 SHADOW campaign
Authors: Rivellini Laura-Hélèna , Chiapello Isabelle , Tison Emmanuel , Fourmentin Marc , Féron Anaïs , Diallo Aboubacry , N'Diaye Thierno , Goloub Philippe , Canonaco Francesco , Prévôt André S. H. , Riffault Véronique
Published: February 2017

Abstract. The present study offers the first chemical characterization of the submicron (PM1) fraction in West Africa at a high time resolution, thanks to collocated measurements of non-refractory (NR) species with an Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (ACSM), black carbon and iron concentrations derived from absorption coefficient measurements with a 7-wavelength aethalometer, and total PM1 determined by a TEOM-FDMS for mass closure. The field campaign was carried out during four months (March to June 2015) as part of the SHADOW (SaHAran Dust Over West Africa) project at a coastal site located in the outskirts of the city of M'Bour, Senegal. With an average mass concentration of 5.4 µg m−3, levels of NR-PM1 in M'Bour were three to ten times lower than cities like Paris or Beijing. Nonetheless the first half of the observation period was marked by intense but short pollution events (concentrations higher than 15 µg m−3), sea breeze phenomena and Saharan desert dust outbreaks (PM10 up to 900 µg m−3). During the second half of the campaign, the sampling site was mainly under the influence of marine air masses. The air masses on days under continental and sea breeze influences were dominated by organics (36–40 %), whereas sulfate particles were predominant (40 %) for days under oceanic influence. Overall, measurements showed that about 3/4 of the total PM1 were explained by NR-PM1, BC and Fe (a proxy for dust) concentrations, leaving ~ 1/4 for other refractory species. A mean value of 4.6 % for the Fe / PM1 ratio was obtained. Source apportionment of the organic fraction, using Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) highlighted the impact of local combustion sources, such as traffic and residential activities, which contribute on average to 52 % of the total organic fraction. A new organic aerosol (OA) source, representing on average 3 % of the total OA fraction, showed similar variation as non-refractory particulate chloride. Its rose plot and daily pattern pointed out to local combustion processes, that is to say two open waste burning areas located about 6 and 11 km away from the receptor site and to a lesser extent a traditional fish smoking place. The remaining fraction was identified as oxygenated organic aerosols (OOA), a factor that prevailed regardless of the day type (45 %) and was representative of regional but also local sources due to enhanced photochemical processes.
Land use change affects biogenic silica pool distribution in a subtropical
soil toposequence
Authors: Unzué-Belmonte Dácil , Ameijeiras-Mariño Yolanda , Opfergelt Sophie , Cornelis Jean-Thomas , Barão Lúcia , Minella Jean , Meire Patrick , Struyf Eric
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Land use change (deforestation) has several negative consequences for the soil system. It is known also to increase the erosion rate which affects the distribution of elements in soils. In this context, the crucial nutrient Si has received little attention, especially in a tropical context. Therefore we studied the effect of land conversion and erosion intensity on the biogenic silica pools in a subtropical soil in the south of Brazil. Biogenic silica (BSi) was determined using a novel alkaline continuous extraction where Si/Al ratios of the fractions extracted are used to distinguish biogenic silica and other soluble fractions: Si/Al > 5 for the biogenic AlkExSi (alkaline extractable Si) and Si/Al
Predicting rehabilitation treatment helpfulness to stroke patients: A supervised learning approach
Authors: Lo Chia-Lun , Tseng Hsiao-Ting
Published: February 2017

Stroke (Cerebral vascular accident, CVA) is a common and serious disease. Most of the survivals would be disabled after their illness recovery, causes serious burden on caregivers. It is said that rehabilitation could help functional recovery of stroke patients, regain independence after stroke. Due to the long course of stroke, how to prevent survivals from recurrence is an important issue. This study attempts to examine the relationship between stroke recurrence and strength of rehabilitation, and build a stroke recurrence prediction model utilizing a number of supervised learning techniques to assist physicians with making clinical decisions.In the past, most of the related work used the samples from a single hospital as a sample, but it cannot fully catch all the clinic information of the patients. Therefore, this study used the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2010 of the NHIRD as the data source, to examine the effectiveness of rehabilitation.In terms of accuracy rate of all classifiers, we get the best effectiveness (78%) while adopting the inpatient admission dataset and C4.5 to predict recurrence. We also find physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy treatments during inpatient admission are the key factors to decrease the chance to recrudesce in the rehabilitation periods. The higher strength and frequency rehabilitation treatment is also the key influence variables in our high accuracy prediction model which means that is useful to lower the recurrence rate of stroke patients.
The Potential of Bicultural Nikkeijin
Authors: Morita Liang
Published: February 2017

The Nikkeijin in Japan mostly work in unskilled positions in manufacturing, and due to unfavourable terms ofemployment, they have little chance of upward socio-economic mobility. Although many of their children do notperform well in Japanese schools and they drop out, some Nikkei children do continue their education and attenduniversity in Japan. This paper focuses on the small minority who further their education but have received littleattention in the literature. From interviews conducted with young Nikkeijin who are at university or have graduatedfrom university, the author found that they are bicultural and bilingual (or trilingual, in Portuguese, Japanese andEnglish). These talented young people have the potential to contribute to Japan in unique ways because of theirlanguage and cultural skills. The author argues that providing more support for the Nikkeijin’s education will not onlyimprove their socio-economic mobility, but also help to alleviate the deficiency of skilled workers caused by therapid aging and decline of the Japanese population.
We All Need WE: The Effect of Using Facebook and Group Fieldwork on Students’ Interdependence and Awareness of STSE Issues
Authors: Abd-El-Aal Wafaa Mohammed Moawad , Steele Astrid
Published: February 2017

In a departure from traditional lecture formats, this research examines the effect of using both Facebook and groupfieldwork in developing Egyptian pre-service teachers’ interdependence, and their awareness of STSE. Group workand fieldwork were found to enhance interdependence/cooperation of participants, as well as strengthen theirunderstanding of STSE issues. Participants found it difficult to find a balance between the different perspectivesafforded by STSE studies. A number of recommendations are offered to strengthen teacher preparation in anEgyptian context.
Analyzing ICT Policy in K-12 Education in Sudan (1990-2016)
Authors: Tairab Adam , Ronghuai Huang
Published: February 2017

The aim of this study of ICT policy in K-12 education in Sudan is to investigate the status of planning for technologyin education and then determine how the advantage of ICT can best serve the educational system and improveeducational outcomes. The study examined two plans for ICT in education, addition to an interview with theeducational planning manager, and information center of federal ministry of general education, and other documentsfrom the ministry of education, as well as recommendations of previous studies which emphasized the need forpolicy to be compatible with other countries may face semi conditions of Sudan, and importance of compatible withUNESCO declarations (Incheon& Qingdao, 2015). The results of this study showed the need for policy emphasis onusing technology in education, K-12 education in Sudan requires better technology equipment, inclusive ICT policyincludes primary and secondary education need to formulate. The study also suggests that evaluation and assessmentare required in order to get more effective solutions and cope with the international educational progress of ICT inK-12 education.
Education for Peace and Justice in Nigeria: A Critical Analysis 1999 – 2015
Authors: Adelabu Salawu Mashud Layiwola , Aina Simeon Abiodun
Published: February 2017

The arrays of violent conflicts in Nigeria, and government’s reaction to them, through the application of adversarialhard powe, call for a review of governments, conflict handling styles. Since the advent of civilian administration in1999, education for peace and justice has not got the required impetus, and it should be at the bedrock of anydeveloping country’s master plan. The theory of pacifism, coined by the French peace campaigner, Emile Armand(2016), that peaceful, rather than violent or belligerent relations should govern human intercourse, was applied. Thispaper observed the prevalence of conflict in Nigeria, ranging from ethic and relations violence, Niger Delta crises,Boko Haram insurgency, communal conflicts, political violence, kidnapping, as well as the bombardment of courtswith political litigations among others. Lack of awareness of other non-adversarial methods of resolving conflicts hasled to its unabatedness, which has cost the country so much loss in human and material resources.This paper recommends that education peace and justice should be designed in a number of ways such as inworkshop and awareness campaigns. The formal channels must be well staffed with people grounded in peace andconflict studies, to be complemented with train-the trainers approach, in order to ensure suitable knowledge transfer.Government must exhibit good governance. As the level of illiteracy is high in the country, informal education forpeace and justice must be given greater emphasise. The use of internet and other means of information technologywill promote the dissemination of education for peace and justice in Nigeria.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Journal of Statistics and Probability, Vol. 6, No. 2
Authors: Smith Wendy
Published: February 2017

International Journal of Statistics and Probability wishes to acknowledge the following individuals for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Their help and contributions in maintaining the quality of the journal is greatly appreciated.Many authors, regardless of whether International Journal of Statistics and Probability publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers.Reviewers for Volume 6, Number 2 Bibi Abdelouahab, University Mentouri Constantine, AlgeriaCarla J. Thompson, University of West Florida, USAChin-Shang Li (Editor-in-Chief), University of California, USADouglas Lorenz, University of Louisville, USAFarida Kachapova, The Auckland University of Technology, New ZealandGabriel A. Okyere, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, GhanaGane Samb Lo, University Gaston Berger, SENEGALGennaro Punzo, University of Naples Parthenope, ItalyGerardo Febres, Universidad Simon Bolívar, VenezuelaHui Zhang, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, USAJacek Białek, University of Lodz, PolandJorge M. Mendes, NOVA University of Lisbon, PortugalKassim S. Mwitondi, Sheffield Hallam University, UKKrishna K. Saha, Central Connecticut State University, USAMan Fung LO, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong KongNahid Sanjari Farsipour, Alzahra University, IranNicolas MARIE, ESME Sudria Paris, FrancePhilip Westgate, University of Kentucky, USASajid Ali, Bocconi University, ItalyShatrunjai Pratap Singh, John Hancock Financial Services, USASohair F. Higazi, University of Tanta, EgyptSubhradev Sen, Alliance University, IndiaTewfik Kernane, University of Sciences and Technology USTHB, AlgeriaZaixing Li, China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing), China  Wendy SmithOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of International Journal of Statistics and ProbabilityCanadian Center of Science and Education
What Is GIS, and How Can It Help My Utility?
Authors:   AWWA Staff
Published: February 2017

Computer technology is dramatically changing the way utilities operate. One of the most dramatic examples is the way many utilities are converting their paper maps to electronic formats so the maps can be used by a geographic information system (GIS), a powerful computer‐based information management system designed to work with data referenced by geographic coordinates, or spatial data.
Groundwater and earthquake: brief remarks about seismic effects on groundwater resources availability in Valnerina
Authors: Checcucci Roberto , Mastrorillo Lucia , Valigi Daniela
Published: February 2017

Not available.
A Qualitative, Interview-Based Study of the Health Policy Fellowship’s Osteopathic Identity
Authors: Skinner Daniel , Franz Berkeley
Published: February 2017

Context: Since 1993, the Health Policy Fellowship (HPF) has trained osteopathic professionals in health policy and leadership. Although almost 250 fellows have graduated from the program, many of whom have assumed leadership roles within the osteopathic medical profession, the HPF has, to the authors’ knowledge, never been subjected to scholarly analysis.

Objective: To understand the HPF’s professional significance as a health policy and leadership training program that has enrolled mostly osteopathic physicians.

Methods: Semistructured interviews were conducted with graduates supplemented by interviews with other professionals involved with the HPF. Using an inductive grounded theory approach, we coded interviews for major themes.

Results: Forty-three interviews were conducted, 38 of which were with graduates of the program and 5 of which were with HPF staff. The data suggest that although the content of the HPF is applicable to all medical professionals, the program’s language and structure are designed to accommodate specific needs of osteopathic professionals. Specifically, the language of the fellowship emphasizes the “high ground” (considering multiple perspectives on an issue), and the structure of the fellowship allows fellows to continue in their jobs but travel to several COMs and to Washington, DC, throughout the year.

Conclusion: Closer examination of the HPF helped convey the relevance of this program, and perhaps programs like it, for a minority medical profession still finding its voice within the policy climate of US health care.
(Meta)Theoretical gateways in studies on assessment and documentation in preschool – a research review with a Scandinavian focus
Authors: Vallberg Roth Ann-Christine
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this article is to describe and collate search results and analysis of research with a focus on (meta)theoretical gateways in assessment and documentation in Scandinavian preschools between 2006 and 2014, supplemented by delimited international research mainly from 2013-2014. The intention is also to highlight what the research indicates about assessment competence in relation to the (meta)theoretical gateways.  The final search results include 153 national and international studies from sources including the Nordic Base of Early Childhood Education and Care (NB-ECEC, 2006-2012). The results indicate that research into assessment in preschool is still a relatively young and undeveloped field, while the field of documentation, and pedagogical documentation in particular, has a significantly higher standing. As more and more different forms of assessment and documentation assume their place in preschools, it becomes increasingly important to gain knowledge and awareness of the potential benefits, limitations and consequences of various forms and practices for assessment and documentation. Theoretical gateways vary, as do the forms of assessment and documentation used. The analysis indicates that assessment competence can include professional assessment based on a variety of scientific grounds. Regarding the expanded documentation and evaluation task and the preschool’s complex assessment and documentation practices, there is a need for both expanded research and expanded competence, which can focus on a multi-voiced assessment competence.
A new species of Pyrenaria (Theaceae-Theoideae) from Northeast India
Authors: Upadhaya Krishna , Mir Aabid Hussain , Roy Dilip Kumar , Odyuo Nripemo
Published: February 2017

A new species of the genus Pyrenaria (Theaceae) from Cherrapunjee-Mawsynram Hills in the Meghalaya State, north-eastern India, P. cherrapunjeana Mir, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to P. diospyricarpa Kurz var. camelliiflora (Kurz) S.X.Yang, P. khasiana R.N.Paul and P. menglaensis G.D.Tao. Notes on distribution, habitat and conservation status of the new species are provided, along with a key to the Indian species of Pyrenaria.
Skillful spring forecasts of September Arctic sea ice extent using passive microwave sea ice observations
Authors: Petty A. A. , Schröder D. , Stroeve J. C. , Markus T. , Miller J. , Kurtz N. T. , Feltham D. L. , Flocco D.
Published: February 2017

In this study, we demonstrate skillful spring forecasts of detrended September Arctic sea ice extent using passive microwave observations of sea ice concentration (SIC) and melt onset (MO). We compare these to forecasts produced using data from a sophisticated melt pond model, and find similar to higher skill values, where the forecast skill is calculated relative to linear trend persistence. The MO forecasts shows the highest skill in March–May, while the SIC forecasts produce the highest skill in June–August, especially when the forecasts are evaluated over recent years (since 2008). The high MO forecast skill in early spring appears to be driven primarily by the presence and timing of open water anomalies, while the high SIC forecast skill appears to be driven by both open water and surface melt processes. Spatial maps of detrended anomalies highlight the drivers of the different forecasts, and enable us to understand regions of predictive importance. Correctly capturing sea ice state anomalies, along with changes in open water coverage appear to be key processes in skillfully forecasting summer Arctic sea ice.