bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Highly-Sensitive Picric Acid Chemical Sensor Based on ZnO Nanopeanuts
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed A. , Tiwari Preeti , Al-Assiri M. S. , Al-Salami A. E. , Umar Ahmad , Kumar Rajesh , Kim S. H. , Ansari Z. A. , Baskoutas S.
Published: July 2017

Herein, we report a facile synthesis, characterization, and electrochemical sensing application of ZnO nanopeanuts synthesized by a simple aqueous solution process and characterized by various techniques in order to confirm the compositional, morphological, structural, crystalline phase, and optical properties of the synthesized material. The detailed characterizations revealed that the synthesized material possesses a peanut-shaped morphology, dense growth, and a wurtzite hexagonal phase along with good crystal and optical properties. Further, to ascertain the useful properties of the synthesized ZnO nanopeanut as an excellent electron mediator, electrochemical sensors were fabricated based on the form of a screen printed electrode (SPE). Electrochemical and current-voltage characteristics were studied for the determination of picric acid sensing characteristics. The electrochemical sensor fabricated based on the SPE technique exhibited a reproducible and reliable sensitivity of ~1.2 μA/mM (9.23 μA·mM−1·cm−2), a lower limit of detection at 7.8 µM, a regression coefficient (R2) of 0.94, and good linearity over the 0.0078 mM to 10.0 mM concentration range. In addition, the sensor response was also tested using simple I-V techniques, wherein a sensitivity of 493.64 μA·mM−1·cm−2, an experimental Limit of detection (LOD) of 0.125 mM, and a linear dynamic range (LDR) of 1.0 mM–5.0 mM were observed for the fabricated picric acid sensor.
The Methodology Utilized in the Redaction of the Tripartite Structure of Sugyot from Tractate Eruvin in the Babylonian Talmud
Authors: Zur Uri
Published: July 2017

This paper deals with the methodology utilized in the redaction of the tripartite structure of sugyot from Tractate Eruvin. The paper begins with a short review of the tripartite structure in various sugyot of the Babylonian Talmud. It presents the various methodologies utilized in the redaction of the tripartite structure of sugyot from Tractate Eruvin. The paper’s significance is in its presentation of the various methods utilized in redaction of the tripartite structure, accompanied by select examples from different texts in Tractate Eruvin. These methodological methods are also evident in other sugyot and they constitute an important research foundation for examining their application in additional sugyot in the different tractates.
Assessment of GPM and TRMM Precipitation Products over Singapore
Authors: Tan Mou , Duan Zheng
Published: July 2017

The evaluation of satellite precipitation products (SPPs) at regional and local scales is essential in improving satellite-based algorithms and sensors, as well as in providing valuable guidance when choosing alternative precipitation data for the local community. The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) has made significant contributions to the development of various SPPs since its launch in 1997. The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission launched in 2014 and is expected to continue the success of TRMM. During the transition from the TRMM era to the GPM era, it is necessary to assess GPM products and make comparisons with TRMM products in different regions to achieve a global view of the performance of GPM products. To this end, this study aims to assess the capability of the latest Integrated Multi-satellite Retrievals for GPM (IMERG) and two TRMM Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) products (TMPA 3B42 and TMPA 3B42RT) in estimating precipitation over Singapore that represents a typical tropical region. The evaluation was conducted at daily, monthly, seasonal and annual scales from 1 April 2014 to 31 January 2016. The capability of SPPs in detecting rainy/non-rainy days and different precipitation classes was also evaluated. The findings showed that: (1) all SPPs correlated well with measurements from gauges at the monthly scale, but moderately at the daily scale; (2) SPPs performed better in the northeast monsoon season (1 December–15 March) than in the inter-monsoon 1 (16 March–31 May), southwest monsoon (1 June–30 September) and inter-monsoon 2 (1 October–30 November) seasons; (3) IMERG had better performance in the characterization of spatial precipitation variability and precipitation detection capability compared to the TMPA products; (4) for the daily precipitation estimates, IMERG had the lowest systematic bias, followed by 3B42 and 3B42RT; and (5) most of the SPPs overestimated moderate precipitation events (1–20 mm/day), while underestimating light (0.1–1 mm/day) and heavy (>20 mm/day) precipitation events. Overall, IMERG is superior but with only slight improvement compared to the TMPA products over Singapore. This study is one of the earliest assessments of IMERG and a comparison of it with TMPA products in Singapore. Our findings were compared with existing studies conducted in other regions, and some limitations of the IMERG and TMPA products in this tropical region were identified and discussed. This study provides an added value to the understanding of the global performance of the IMERG product.
Estimation of SOS and EOS for Midwestern US Corn and Soybean Crops
Authors: Ren Jie , Campbell James , Shao Yang
Published: July 2017

Understanding crop phenology is fundamental to agricultural production, management, planning, and decision-making. This study used 250 m 16-day Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) time-series data to detect crop phenology across the Midwestern United States, 2007–2015. Key crop phenology metrics, start of season (SOS) and end of season (EOS), were estimated for corn and soybean. For such a large study region, we found that MODIS-estimated SOS and EOS values were highly dependent on the nature of input time-series data, analytical methods, and threshold values chosen for crop phenology detection. With the entire sequence of MODIS EVI time-series data as input, SOS values were inconsistent compared to crop emergent dates from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Crop Progress Reports (CPR). However, when we removed winter EVI images from the time-series data to reduce impacts of snow cover, we obtained much more consistent SOS estimation. Various threshold values (10 to 50% of seasonal EVI amplitude) were applied to derive SOS values. For both corn’s and soybean’s SOS estimation, a threshold value of 25% generated the best overall agreement with the CPR crop emergent dates. Root-mean-square error (RMSE) values were 4.81 and 5.30 days for corn and soybean, respectively. For corn’s EOS estimation, a threshold value of 40% led to a high R2 value of 0.82 and RMSE value of 5.16 days. We further examined spatial patterns of SOS and EOS for both crops—SOS for corn displayed a clear south-north gradient; the southern portion of the Midwest US has earlier SOS and EOS dates.
Measures of a Sustainable Commute as a Predictor of Happiness
Authors: Cloutier Scott , Karner Alex , Breetz Hanna , Toufani Parinaz , Onat Nuri , Patel Sambhram , Paralkar Siddhanth , Berejnoi Erica , Morrison Beth , Papenfuss Jason , Briggs A. , Carlson Cynthia
Published: July 2017

The ways in which we travel—by what mode, for how long, and for what purpose—can affect our sense of happiness and well-being. This paper assesses the relationships between measures of the sustainability of transportation systems in U.S. metropolitan areas and subjective well-being. Associations between self-reported happiness levels from the Gallup Healthways Well-being Index and commute data were examined for 187 core-based statistical areas (CBSA). We also supplement this quantitative analysis through brief case studies of high- and low-performing happiness cities. Our quantitative results indicate that regions with higher commute mode shares by non-automobile modes generally had higher well-being scores, even when controlling for important economic predictors of happiness. We also find that pro-sustainable transportation policies can have implications for population-wide happiness and well-being. Our case studies indicate that both high and low scoring happiness cities demonstrate a dedicated commitment to improving sustainable transportation infrastructure. Our study suggests that cities that provide incentives for residents to use more sustainable commute modes may offer greater opportunity for happiness than those that do not.
A Sustainable Graphene Based Cement Composite
Authors: Rehman Sardar , Ibrahim Zainah , Memon Shazim , Javed Muhammad , Khushnood Rao
Published: July 2017

The rheological properties of fresh cement paste with different content of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), different shear rate cycles and resting time was investigated. The rheological data were fitted by the Bingham model, Modified Bingham model, Herschel–Bulkley model and Casson model to estimate the yield stress and plastic viscosity, and to see trend of the flow curves. The effectiveness of these rheological models was expressed by the standard error. Test results showed that yield stress and plastic viscosity increased with the increase in the content of graphene in the cement based composite and resting time while the values of these parameters decreased for higher shear rate cycle. In comparison to control sample, the GNP cement based composite showed 30% increase in load carrying capacity and 73% increase in overall failure strain. Piezo-resistive characteristics of GNP were employed to evaluate the self-sensing composite material. It was found that, at maximum compressive load, the electrical resistivity value reduced by 42% and hence GNP cement based composite can be used to detect the damages in concrete. Finally, the practical application of this composite material was evaluated by testing full length reinforced concrete beam. It was found that graphene–cement composite specimen successfully predicted the response against cracks propagation and hence can be used as self-sensing composite material.
Equity in Microscale Urban Design and Walkability: A Photographic Survey of Six Pittsburgh Streetscapes
Authors: Bereitschaft Bradley
Published: July 2017

This paper explores inequity in neighborhood walkability at the micro-scale level by qualitatively examining six streetscapes in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A photographic survey is used to highlight differences in the quality and design of the built environment among pairs of streetscapes with high or low social vulnerability but approximately equal quantitative Walk Scores®. The survey revealed discernable differences in the quality and maintenance of the built environment among those in more and less disadvantaged neighborhoods. This was true of several characteristics expected to affect walkability, including enclosure, transparency, complexity, and tidiness. Streetscapes in neighborhoods with high social vulnerability exhibited less contiguous street walls, fewer windows and less transparent storefronts, less well maintained infrastructure, fewer street cafés, and overall less complexity than those in neighborhoods with low social vulnerability. Implications for planning and policy are discussed.
Comparison of Four Nitrate Removal Kinetic Models in Two Distinct Wetland Restoration Mesocosm Systems
Authors: Messer Tiffany , Burchell Michael , Bírgand François
Published: July 2017

The objective of the study was to determine the kinetic model that best fit observed nitrate removal rates at the mesocosm scale in order to determine ideal loading rates for two future wetland restorations slated to receive pulse flow agricultural drainage water. Four nitrate removal models were investigated: zero order, first order decay, efficiency loss, and Monod. Wetland mesocosms were constructed using the primary soil type (in triplicate) at each of the future wetland restoration sites. Eighteen mesocosm experiments were conducted over two years across seasons. Simulated drainage water was loaded into wetlands as batches, with target nitrate-N levels typically observed in agricultural drainage water (between 2.5 and 10 mg L−1). Nitrate-N removal observed during the experiments provided the basis for calibration and validation of the models. When the predictive strength of each of the four models was assessed, results indicated that the efficiency loss and first order decay models provided the strongest agreement between predicted and measured NO3-N removal rates, and the fit between the two models were comparable. Since the predictive power of these two models were similar, the less complicated first order decay model appeared to be the best choice in predicting appropriate loading rates for the future full-scale wetland restorations.
Directive inondation : la prévention impérative
Authors: Drobenko Bernard
Published: July 2017

Indirectement traité par la directive no 2000/ 60/ CE établissant un cadre pour une politique communautaire dans le domaine de l’eau, et face à la récurrence des risques d’inondation, cette question se trouve aujourd’hui entièrement contenue dans la directive Inondation du 6 novembre 2007. Toutefois, l’instauration d’un régime préventif doit se coupler, d’une part, avec une évaluation du risque d’inondation en vue de le cartographier dans toutes les régions où ce risque existe, et d’autre part, avec une gestion des risques d’inondation par la production de plans de gestion des risques, fruit d’une coopération et d’une participation entre Etats membres.
Chronique des arrêts de la CEDH 2008-2009. Arrêts Tatar, Fägerskiöld, Borysiewicz et Boudaïeva
Authors: Nadaud Séverine , Marguénaud Jean-Pierre
Published: July 2017

Constat unanime de la violation de l’article 8 de la Convention et ainsi du non-respect du droit à un environnement sain (arrêt Tatar). Non-violation de l’article 8 de la Convention, tant dans l’affaire Fägerskiöld que Borysiewicz, au motif que les nuisances sonores, quelles qu’elles soient, n’ont pas atteint le seuil minimal de gravité (arrêts Fägerskiöld et Borysiewicz). Violation de l’article 2 de la CEDH, non-violation de l’article premier du Protocole 1, de l’article 13 de la CEDH combiné avec l’article premier du Protocole 1. Affirmation de la nécessité pour les Etats de la prévention des risques naturels en vue d’une protection efficiente des vies humaines exposées à des risques naturels majeurs (arrêt Boudaïeva).
Les limites de la protection pénale de l’environnement polynésien
Authors: Gindre Emmanuelle
Published: July 2017

Environmental criminal law in French Polynesia suffers from the antagonism existing between the autonomous power of the Community regarding environmental protection and the criminal competence of the State. Though Polynesia may participate in the exercise of State competences in penal matters and penal process, the statutory conditions limiting this power prevent the adoption and implementation of a penal protection adequate enough to the local particular situations and efficient enough to stop the damage to an environment as exceptional as it is fragile.
Lutte contre l’exploitation sauvage des forêts et commerce illégal de bois : accord de partenariat volontaire Ghana/Union européenne
Authors: Gnangui Adon
Published: July 2017

L’exploitation sauvage des forêts et le commerce du bois illégalement abattu, récurrents au Ghana, sont sources de dégâts sociaux, économiques et environnementaux. Ce qui a nécessité la mise en place d’un cadre institutionnel international pour aider le pays à mieux gérer son patrimoine forestier. A été mis en oeuvre, à l’initiative de l’Union européenne, un plan d’action relatif à l’application des réglementations forestières, la gouvernance et les échanges commerciaux (FLEGT) destiné à lutter contre la déforestation. Le plan impose aux opérateurs l’obtention de garanties suffisantes pour s’assurer que les bois et produits dérivés qu’ils vendent sur le marché européen sont issus d’une récolte conforme à la législation du pays d’origine. L’Accord de partenariat volontaire entre le Ghana et l’UE s’inscrit donc dans le cadre dudit plan et sa mise en oeuvre. Ainsi, le Ghana pour satisfaire à ses engagements, doit renforcer les réformes forestières pour à la fois mieux lutter contre l’exploitation illégale, favoriser une gestion forestière durable et minimiser les impacts négatifs sur les populations.
Aural Rehabilitation for Older Adults with Hearing Loss: Impacts on Quality of Life—A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Michaud Helen N. , Duchesne Louise
Published: July 2017

Background:Few systematic reviews have been conducted regarding aural rehabilitation for adults with hearing loss, with none specifically targeting the older adult population. With prevalence rates of hearing loss being highest in older adults, examining the effects of aural
rehabilitation on this population is warranted.Purpose:To evaluate the effects of aural rehabilitation on quality of life in an older adult population presenting with hearing loss.Eligibility Criteria:Studies with adults presenting with hearing loss, ≥50 yr of age, with or
without hearing aids, receiving interventions such as auditory training, speech-reading, communication strategies training, speech tracking, counseling, or a combination of approaches, and measuring outcomes related to quality of life, in an individual or group format, with or without significant
others and with no limitations as to year of publication.Study Selection:Searches in six databases, as well as results from hand-searching, gray literature, and cross-referencing of articles, yielded 386 articles. Of the 145 assessed as full-text articles for eligibility, 8 studies
met inclusion criteria.Study Appraisal:A component-based risk of bias assessment, as recommended by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement.Results:No effect sizes were found in group interventions measuring outcomes related to
quality of life, such as mental and emotional functions, environmental factors, participation restrictions, and activity limitations. An intervention effect regarding participation was found for a self-administered home training program, but an effect size was unavailable. Small-to-medium
effect sizes were found in one of two individual communication training programs, for which outcomes related to quality of life, such as emotional functions, activities, participation, and environmental factors were measured. The results of the component-based risk of bias assessment indicated
that the quality of reporting was poor, thus compromising the internal validity of included primary studies.Conclusions:Our results indicate that the combined body of evidence in support of aural rehabilitation for older adults with hearing loss is not sufficient to draw any firm conclusions.
We identify a need for more rigorous research to guide clinical decision-making.
Bayesian Redshift Classification of Emission-line Galaxies with Photometric Equivalent Widths
Authors: Leung Andrew S. , Acquaviva Viviana , Gawiser Eric , Ciardullo Robin , Komatsu Eiichiro , Malz A. I. , Zeimann Gregory R. , Bridge Joanna S. , Drory Niv , Feldmeier John J. , Finkelstein Steven L. , Gebhardt Karl , Gronwall Caryl , Hagen Alex , Hill Gary J. , Schneider Donald P.
Published: July 2017

We present a Bayesian approach to the redshift classification of emission-line galaxies when only a single emission line is detected spectroscopically. We consider the case of surveys for high-redshift Lyα-emitting galaxies (LAEs), which have traditionally been classified via an inferred rest-frame equivalent width (EW; 

) greater than 20 Å. Our Bayesian method relies on known prior probabilities in measured emission-line luminosity functions and EW distributions for the galaxy populations, and returns the probability that an object in question is an LAE given the characteristics observed. This approach will be directly relevant for the Hobby–Eberly Telescope Dark Energy Experiment (HETDEX), which seeks to classify ∼106 emission-line galaxies into LAEs and low-redshift

 emitters. For a simulated HETDEX catalog with realistic measurement noise, our Bayesian method recovers 86% of LAEs missed by the traditional

> 20 Å cutoff over 2 < z < 3, outperforming the EW cut in both contamination and incompleteness. This is due to the method’s ability to trade off between the two types of binary classification error by adjusting the stringency of the probability requirement for classifying an observed object as an LAE. In our simulations of HETDEX, this method reduces the uncertainty in cosmological distance measurements by 14% with respect to the EW cut, equivalent to recovering 29% more cosmological information. Rather than using binary object labels, this method enables the use of classification probabilities in large-scale structure analyses. It can be applied to narrowband emission-line surveys as well as upcoming large spectroscopic surveys including Euclid and WFIRST.
A Comprehensive Study of Lyα Emission in the High-redshift Galaxy Population
Authors: Oyarzún Grecco A. , Blanc Guillermo A. , González Valentino , Mateo Mario , Bailey John I.
Published: July 2017

We present an exhaustive census of Lyman alpha (Lyα) emission in the general galaxy population at

. We use the Michigan/Magellan Fiber System (M2FS) spectrograph to study a stellar mass (M

) selected sample of 625 galaxies homogeneously distributed in the range

. Our sample is selected from the 3D-HST/CANDELS survey, which provides the complementary data to estimate Lyα equivalent widths (

) and escape fractions (f
esc) for our galaxies. We find both quantities to anti-correlate with M
*, star formation rate (SFR), UV luminosity, and UV slope (β). We then model the

distribution as a function of M
UV and β using a Bayesian approach. Based on our model and matching the properties of typical Lyman break galaxy (LBG) selections, we conclude that the

distribution in such samples is heavily dependent on the limiting M
UV of the survey. Regarding narrowband surveys, we find their

selections to bias samples toward low M
*, while their line-flux limitations preferentially leave out low-SFR galaxies. We can also use our model to predict the fraction of Lyα-emitting LBGs at 4 ≤ z ≤ 7. We show that reported drops in the Lyα fraction at z ≥ 6, usually attributed to the rapidly increasing neutral gas fraction of the universe, can also be explained by survey M
UV incompleteness. This result does not dismiss reionization occurring at z ∼ 7, but highlights that current data is not inconsistent with this process taking place at z > 7.
Search for Extended Sources in the Galactic Plane Using Six Years of Fermi-Large Area Telescope Pass 8 Data above 10 GeV
Authors: Ackermann M. , Ajello M. , Baldini L. , Ballet J. , Barbiellini G. , Bastieri D. , Bellazzini R. , Bissaldi E. , Bloom E. D. , Bonino R. , Bottacini E. , Brandt T. J. , Bregeon J. , Bruel P. , Buehler R. , Cameron R. A. , Caragiulo M. , Caraveo P. A. , Castro D. , Cavazzuti E. , Cecchi C. , Charles E. , Chekhtman A. , Cheung C. C. , Chiaro G. , Ciprini S. , Cohen J. M. , Costantin D. , Costanza F. , Cutini S. , D’Ammando F. , de Palma F. , Desiante R. , Digel S. W. , Lalla N. Di , Mauro M. Di , Venere L. Di , Favuzzi C. , Fegan S. J. , Ferrara E. C. , Franckowiak A. , Fukazawa Y. , Funk S. , Fusco P. , Gargano F. , Gasparrini D. , Giglietto N. , Giordano F. , Giroletti M. , Green D. , Grenier I. A. , Grondin M.-H. , Guillemot L. , Guiriec S. , Harding A. K. , Hays E. , Hewitt J. W. , Horan D. , Hou X. , Jóhannesson G. , Kamae T. , Kuss M. , La Mura G. , Larsson S. , Lemoine-Goumard M. , Li J. , Longo F. , Loparco F. , Lubrano P. , Magill J. D. , Maldera S. , Malyshev D. , Manfreda A. , Mazziotta M. N. , Michelson P. F. , Mitthumsiri W. , Mizuno T. , Monzani M. E. , Morselli A. , Moskalenko I. V. , Negro M. , Nuss E. , Ohsugi T. , Omodei N. , Orienti M. , Orlando E. , Ormes J. F. , Paliya V. S. , Paneque D. , Perkins J. S. , Persic M. , Pesce-Rollins M. , Petrosian V. , Piron F. , Porter T. A. , Principe G. , Rainò S. , Rando R. , Razzano M. , Razzaque S. , Reimer A. , Reimer O. , Reposeur T. , Sgrò C. , Simone D. , Siskind E. J. , Spada F. , Spandre G. , Spinelli P. , Suson D. J. , Tak D. , Thayer J. B. , Thompson D. J. , Torres D. F. , Tosti G. , Troja E. , Vianello G. , Wood K. S. , Wood M.
Published: July 2017

The spatial extension of a γ-ray source is an essential ingredient to determine its spectral properties, as well as its potential multiwavelength counterpart. The capability to spatially resolve γ-ray sources is greatly improved by the newly delivered Fermi-Large Area Telescope (LAT) Pass 8 event-level analysis, which provides a greater acceptance and an improved point-spread function, two crucial factors for the detection of extended sources. Here, we present a complete search for extended sources located within 7° from the Galactic plane, using 6 yr of Fermi-LAT data above 10 GeV. We find 46 extended sources and provide their morphological and spectral characteristics. This constitutes the first catalog of hard Fermi-LAT extended sources, named the Fermi Galactic Extended Source Catalog, which allows a thorough study of the properties of the Galactic plane in the sub-TeV domain.
Disentangling the Circumnuclear Environs of Centaurus A. III. An Inner Molecular Ring, Nuclear Shocks, and the CO to Warm H2 Interface
Authors: Espada D. , Matsushita S. , Miura R. E. , Israel F. P. , Neumayer N. , Martin S. , Henkel C. , Izumi T. , Iono D. , Aalto S. , Ott J. , Peck A. B. , Quillen A. C. , Kohno K.
Published: July 2017

We present the distribution and kinematics of the molecular gas in the circumnuclear disk (CND; 400 pc × 200 pc) of Centaurus A with resolutions of ∼5 pc (0.″3) and shed light onto the mechanism feeding the active galactic nucleus (AGN) using CO(3–2), HCO+(4–3), HCN(4–3), and CO(6–5) observations obtained with ALMA. Multiple filaments or streamers of tens to a hundred parsec scale exist within the CND, which form a ring-like structure with an unprojected diameter of 9″ × 6″ (162 pc × 108 pc) and a position angle P.A. ≃ 155°. Inside the nuclear ring, there are two leading and straight filamentary structures with lengths of about 30–60 pc at P.A. ≃ 120° on opposite sides of the AGN, with a rotational symmetry of 180° and steeper position–velocity diagrams, which are interpreted as nuclear shocks due to non-circular motions. Along the filaments, and unlike other nearby AGNs, several dense molecular clumps present low HCN/HCO+(4–3) ratios (≲0.5). The filaments abruptly end in the probed transitions at r ≃ 20 pc from the AGN, but previous near-IR H2(J = 1–0)S(1) maps show that they continue in an even warmer gas phase (T ∼ 1000 K), winding up in the form of nuclear spirals, and forming an inner ring structure with another set of symmetric filaments along the N–S direction and within r ≃ 10 pc. The molecular gas is governed primarily by non-circular motions, being the successive shock fronts at different scales where loss of angular momentum occurs, a mechanism that may feed efficiently powerful radio galaxies down to parsec scales.
The impact of personal interactions on the stress of school administrators: The validation and application of an assessment tool
Authors: López Meneses Eloy , Leiva Olivencia Juan J. , Vázquez-Cano Esteban
Published: July 2017

Purpose: To analyze personal interactions as one of the possible factors that can generate greater stress in school administrators. For this purpose, we present the design, validation and application of a survey that intends to measure the type of managerial functions that are associated with higher rates of personal interaction and their possible measurement as stressors of those performing administrative functions.Design/methodology/approach: To develop, validate and apply an assessment tool to measure the stress of school administrators. To this end, a mixed analysis methodology has been adopted, involving the selection of a group of experts, the calculation of an “expert proficiency coefficient” (Cabero & Barroso, 2013) and the subsequent validation of the survey using the modified Delphi method in two phases, with a sample of 30 school administrators and educational supervisors. The survey has also been subjected to a process to determine the trustworthiness and validity of the construct through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis.Findings: The result is a 5-dimension, 31-item survey with a total score of 155 points and three measurements: low stress (1-50 points), medium stress (51-100 points) and high stress (101-155 points). The areas that generate the greatest amount of stress can be summarized in two categories: reprimanding teachers for non-performance of their duties and discipline management at the center (expulsions, bullying, fighting and drugs).Research limitations/implications: The survey was designed according to the socio-educational characteristics of the Spanish context. Further research in other educational contexts would require an adaptation of different items on the scale.Practical implications: Measuring the school administrator’s stress makes it possible to identify those functions that are more susceptible to intervention, both formative and administrative. This improves one of the key areas of school organization.Social implications: The improvement of the school institution and its governance starts with identifying those aspects that require educational interventions, but also social ones that imply a reflection on how schools in the 21st century are managed and organized.Originality/value: There are no Spanish studies that propose assessment tools to measure the stress of school administrators; in this sense, this study provides a framework for the Spanish context.
The Qualitative Relationship Between Banks and SMEs in Wales
Authors: Woldie Atsede , Hagshenas Hooman , Thomas Brychan Celfyn
Published: July 2017

A long-term or close and intense relationship with banks could help overcome the main problems like asymmetric information. Using collateral is another way to overcome the effects of asymmetric information. The findings show that having collateral does not reduce loan costs, and on the other hand it will increase the availability of finance for small businesses. In general, small businesses use pecking order theory in choosing their formal sources of finance. Because of their lack of knowledge, they are not completely aware of available sources of finance. Banks are the first and most important external finance provider for small businesses, so having a good long-term relationship with banks can help them to overcome problems like asymmetric information, which would influence their access to more finance. Collateral is the other way to access more finance and it can help small businesses in their relationship with banks, especially in a period of unsustainability to reduce the risks for banks.
Multimodal Listening Through Movie Trailers
Authors: Bobkina Jelena , Romero Elena Dominguez
Published: July 2017

This paper reports on work resulting from a UCM (Complutense University of Madrid, Spain) Research Project on Innovative Teaching in Higher Education carried out during the academic year 2015-2016. The aim of the project was two-fold: (1) to develop a multimodal framework for the development of multimodal listening activities with a focus on movie trailers and (2) to assess the resulting multimodal listening activities designed within this framework by means of a quality assessment tool, the COdA rubric. The results obtained from the evaluation process reveal the qualities and limitations of the multimodal listening material evaluated as much as the qualities and limitations of the multimodal framework that we designed prior to the development of this material. This evaluation process is aimed at as a first step in the development of other multimodal listening materials—within our multimodal framework—that may fill some existing gaps.
From Love to Rebuff
Authors: Stępień Beata , Hinner Michael
Published: July 2017

The aim of this chapter is to discuss the grounds for country differences in the customers' attitudes towards luxury goods. The basis for this discussion are the Social Identity, Communication Accommodation, Expectancy-Value Theory, Theory of Reasoned Action and Expectation Confirmation Theory, attitudes, and attitude formation. We compare other empirical research on consumers' value perception (CVP) in the luxury sector and the results of our own international e-survey conducted in 5 countries (Germany, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia and Turkey). By comparing opposite market segments, i.e., the stand-outs and the prestige-seekers as well as groups of luxury lovers with luxury opponents we look for grounds of divergent attitudes towards luxury goods. We found that culture, as a very complex phenomenon, shapes the attitudes not only at the national level, but is also reflected in the level of education across countries. That is why a combination of market segments combined with belief systems and levels of education may be a more accurate indicator of consumer attitudes.
A Dynamic and Context-Aware Social Network Approach for Multiple Criteria Decision Making Through a Graph-Based Knowledge Learning
Authors: Di Stefano Alessandro , Scatà Marialisa , La Corte Aurelio , Giacchi Evelina
Published: July 2017

Complexity and dynamics characterize a social network and its processes. Social network analysis and graph theory could be used to describe and explore the connectedness among the different entities. Network dynamics further increases the complexity, as each entity with its personal knowledge, cognitive and reasoning capabilities, thinks, decides and acts in a social network, characterized by the heterogeneity of nodes and ties among them. Social network analysis becomes critical to the decision-making process, where a network node will consider both its personal knowledge and the influences received from its neighbors. Network dynamics and the node's context-awareness affect the relationships among criteria, modifying their ranking in a multiple criteria decision-making process, and hence the decision itself. Thus, the main aim has been to model the decision-making process within a social network, considering both context-awareness and network dynamics. Moreover, we have introduced a process of knowledge-transfer, where the criteria are represented by the knowledge-related values.
Parallelizing Large-Scale Graph Algorithms Using the Apache Spark-Distributed Memory System
Authors: Askarian Ahmad , Xu Rupei , Farago Andras
Published: July 2017

The rapidly emerging area of Social Network Analysis is typically based on graph models. They include directed/undirected graphs, as well as a multitude of random graph representations that reflect the inherent randomness of social networks. A large number of parameters and metrics are derived from these graphs. Overall, this gives rise to two fundamental research/development directions: (1) advancements in models and algorithms, and (2) implementing the algorithms for huge real-life systems. The model and algorithm development part deals with finding the right graph models for various applications, along with algorithms to treat the associated tasks, as well as computing the appropriate parameters and metrics. In this chapter we would like to focus on the second area: on implementing the algorithms for very large graphs. The approach is based on the Spark framework and the GraphX API which runs on top of the Hadoop distributed file system.
Healthcare Education
Authors: Frank Eva M.
Published: July 2017

The integration of technology into the education and continuous professional education of allied health professionals is evolving. Integrating simulation as an authentic instructional modality has changed how clinicians learn and practice the clinical knowledge, skills, and abilities they are required to be competent in to ensure patient safety. A lot of advances have been made in the utilization of simulation in various domains. Continuing medical education is such a domain, and this chapter will briefly describe the history of simulation, present simulation as an authentic instructional activity, examine education trends of using simulation-based learning, highlight two applicable theoretical frameworks, and present a case study that effectively utilized simulation as an authentic instructional strategy and assessment during a continuing medical education course for athletic trainers.
Applied Behavior Analysis as a Teaching Technology
Authors: Hugh-Pennie Amoy Kito , Park Hye-Suk Lee , Luke Nicole , Lee Gabrielle T.
Published: July 2017

Applied behavior analysis is known as an effective way to address the needs of people with autism spectrum disorders. The layperson may also associate behavior analysis with forensic psychology through their experience of crime dramas such as Criminal Minds: Behavior Analysis Unit. However accurate or simplified these portrayals they are a very narrow view of the larger field of behavioral science. Behavior analysis has a host of applications in the real world. Some of these applications include but are certainly not limited to the determination of social policies, advertising, policing, animal training, business practices, diet and exercise regimens and education. In this chapter the authors will focus on how applied behavior analysis can be used as a teaching technology from the behavioral and educational literature that has the potential to help lead the way out of the educational crisis faced in the United States of America and abroad.
Approaches for Image Database Retrieval Based on Color, Texture, and Shape Features
Authors: Arora Kratika , Aggarwal Ashwani Kumar
Published: July 2017

With an ever-increasing use and demand for digital imagery in the areas of medicine, sciences, and engineering, image retrieval is an active research area in image processing and pattern recognition. Content-based image retrieval (CBIR) is a method of finding images from a huge image database according to persons' interests. Content-based here means that the search involves analysis of the actual content present in the image. As the database of images is growing day by day, researchers/scholars are searching for better techniques for retrieval of images with good efficiency.This chapter first gives an overview of the various image retrieval systems. Then, the applications of CBIR in various fields and existing CBIR systems are described. The various image content descriptors and extraction methods are also explained. The main motive of the chapter is to study and compare the features that are used in Content Based Image Retrieval system and conclude on the system that retrieves images from a huge database with good precision and recall.
Computed Tomography Brain Images Semantic Segmentation
Authors: Fauzdar Poonam , Kumar Sarvesh
Published: July 2017

In this paper we applianced an approach for segmenting brain tumour regions in a computed tomography images by proposing a multi-level fuzzy technique with quantization and minimum computed Euclidean distance applied to morphologically divided skull part. Since the edges identified with closed contours and further improved by adding minimum Euclidean distance, that is why the numerous results that are analyzed are very assuring and algorithm poses following advantages like less cost, global analysis of image, reduced time, more specificity and positive predictive value.
Intelligent Control of Vehicles' Number Plates on Toll Gates in Developing Nations
Authors: Mushiri Tawanda , Mbohwa Charles , Sarupinda Simbarashe
Published: July 2017

Developing nations have implemented toll gates in their countries major trunk highways as a move towards the improvement in fiscal levels. However, several problems have arisen in the toll collection system that has been implemented. The system exists as an incomplete system in comparison to internationally acclaimed systems and methods. This chapter therefore seeks to introduce an automated toll collection system which has enhanced security features and intelligent vehicle classification methods. Utilising machine intelligence and computer vision methods in the system, the researchers intend to develop the automated and intelligent toll collection system for developing nation's tollgates. The mechatronic system will combat security loopholes and enhance the efficiency of the toll collection process.
Using the COVA Approach to Promote Active Learning in Digital Learning Environments
Authors: Cummings Cindy , Harapnuik Dwayne , Thibodeaux Tilisa
Published: July 2017

Active learning pedagogies using digital technologies hold much promise. Yet over the past several decades despite all the advances we see in how technology impacts most aspects of society, the advances in our educational institutions have been much smaller. Why? We have focused on the technology as a quick fix and have not focused on the learning. Rather than look to the latest teaching trend or hottest activity of the day, we must reimagine all aspects of our teaching and learning and purposefully build our programs as significant digital learning environments that inspire, foster, and facilitate deeper learning. This chapter reveals how we have built a Master's program that uses the active learning principles of choice, ownership, and voice through authentic learning (COVA approach) and how we have created a significant learning environment (CSLE) that fully engages and equips our learners to be digital leaders.
Technology and Teaching
Authors: Feist David , Reid Doug
Published: July 2017

Teachers at a technology diverse school explored ways to shift toward a more student- centered pedagogical practice. The project determined whether a shift in teacher practices could impact student engagement and success. The results were positive: many students had more academic success when student-centered learning activities were incorporated into their schooling. In theory, this means student learning that includes non-linear learning approaches can work in more generalizable settings than what have been expansively published in the current literature. In practice, the findings may help to inform schools dealing with current societal pressures to help their students find greater success through the use of pedagogically appropriate technology implementations and teacher support.
Choosing and Adapting a Mobile Learning Model for Teacher Education
Authors: Ireri Bonface Ngari , Wario Ruth Diko , Mwingirwa Irene Mukiri
Published: July 2017

Teachers and instructors end up choosing any instructional design and tools for luck of guiding frameworks especially when integrating teaching and learning with mobile technology. The decision by the instructor becomes even more complex when presented with multiple traditional frameworks to choose from. The Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) model has lately become popular in teacher training, however, research continues to explore on its effectiveness especially in a fast growing technological environment. New models are being created and this chapter has attempted to present such model that can aid teachers and instructors in making a good choice. Content Relevance and Serving, Content Format and Packaging, Learner Attention, Learner Feedback and Context Awareness where factors identified as critical in making a choice for an instructional design model to adopt.
Integrating Digital/Mobile Learning Strategies With Students in the Classroom at the Historical Black College/University (HBCU)
Authors: Quarles Audrey McCrary , Conway Cassandra Sligh , Harris Stanley Melton , Osler II James Edward , Rech Leslie
Published: July 2017

Today's digital classroom must include contemporary learning strategies to interest the millennial students. Students are learning the latest digital/mobile technologies daily. Likewise, the professors must keep up with students and encourage universities to invest in digital technologies. Without this, how can students be ready for the working world and the global impact of education? Of course, this is not a question to answer right now; however, educators must take it serious in preparing students for the competitive workforce. Faculty must stay current with the latest digital/mobile technology and seek innovative strategies to keep abreast of research within the discipline area. This chapter's purpose is to: 1) examine authors' perception of digital/mobile learning technologies at HBCUs; 2) examine research on digital/mobile technology in classrooms; 3) discuss teaching and learning strategies that can impact the digital/mobile learning environment; and 4) note the global impact of learning strategies in classrooms.
A Consciousness-Based Approach to Management Education for Integrity
Authors: Heaton Dennis P. , Travis Fred , Subramaniam Ravi
Published: July 2017

Management education is seeking creative innovations that can have a real impact on integrity. In this chapter, the authors present our recent research on the relationship between integrity in the brain, as measured by the Brain Integration Scale, and measures of moral reasoning. Further, they summarize research indicating longitudinal growth in coherent brain functioning, intelligence, personality maturity, moral development, and psychological health through the Consciousness-Based approach to management education practiced at Maharishi University of Management. This research supports a potentially innovative approach to management education that does not just address education for integrity on the level of ethical theories or values, but demonstrably transforms the neurophysiology, leading to changes in moral reasoning and heightened effectiveness of performance.
A Balanced Approach to Education
Authors: Khan Mohammad Ayub
Published: July 2017

This chapter intends to find out answers to a rather complicated question facing almost all universities and business schools in the world: How to have a balanced approach to education. In so doing, this chapter discusses an integrative approach to curriculum development and having a best combination of teaching, research, and continuing education as a source of a balanced approach to education. All these components—curriculum development, teaching, research, and continuing education—are crucial for the existence and growth of higher educational institutions now and in the future. Furthermore, the chapter studies all the various factors that influence the development and implementation of a balanced approach to education in academic institutions and proposes strategies and models to help academic administrators design and implement balanced education approaches.
The Application of the Learning Sciences to the Design of Business Education Cases
Authors: Hamlin Michael D.
Published: July 2017

Business education is education for practice and thus, requires a systematic and integrative approach that will guide students toward becoming reflective practitioners. Case-based education is an important tool that can provide the educational experiences that produce effective practitioners but only if its use is guided by a sound theoretical and research based framework. Research and theory from the learning sciences can guide case-based instructional practices. This chapter will provide a framework for the design of case-based instruction that incorporates teaching and learning affordances derived from the theory of situated learning and cognition. If the educational goal is to produce business practitioners with the skills and knowledge necessary to operate successfully in today's global business environment, business education needs to be prepared to incorporate theoretical perspectives derived from learning sciences research into case-based education.