bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clustering Finger Motion Data From Virtual Reality-Based Training to Analyze Patients With Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Martono Niken Prasasti , Yamaguchi Takehiko , Maeta Takuya , Fujino Hibiki , Kubota Yuki , Ohwada Hayato , Giovanneti Tania
Published: February 2018

Research in virtual reality (VR) has resulted in the development of many applications in clinical settings in the areas of learning and therapy in psychology and neuropsychology because this technology can be flexible to the needs of the clinical application. VR technology has many implementations for cognitive training and as a screening tool for patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The technology has been used in the screening, diagnosis, treatment and support of patients with MCI. This study found that the information recorded in VR-based learning software can be useful in analyzing individuals with MCI in order to characterize groups of participants. The authors implemented a time series clustering algorithm acting on finger motion data from nine healthy participants as a pilot study, then comprehensively reviewed the clustering result by comparing it with performance-based measures. The results indicate that the clusters formed by using the acceleration data is reasonably analogous to the performance measures (i.e., with respect to the type and number of errors that occurred).
In Search for a “Good Fit” Between Augmented Reality and Mobile Learning Ecosystem
Authors: Gundogan Miraç Banu
Published: February 2018

Ecosystems are particular areas in nature where all living and nonliving components interact with each other and their environment. The term has also been used as a metaphor in scientific and social contexts. Learning ecosystem is one of these which studies the components and interactions of learning processes. Augmented reality is among the components of a (mobile) learning ecosystem. Potentials of integrating augmented reality in mobile learning are not denied, yet there are concerns that these might turn into short living fashion items if their long term consequences are not considered. Defining a mobile learning ecosystem, clarifying the position of augmented reality component within, describing its relations with other components and searching for a balance in these interactions would be an answer to these concerns. This chapter gives an answer by presenting mobile learning ecosystem and augmented reality definitions derived from a Delphi study carried out in 2016 in Turkey. The results and discussions present a “good fit” framework for a viable mobile learning ecosystem.
Palatium Vetus in Alessandria
Authors: Marotta Anna , Netti Rossana , Vitali Marco
Published: February 2018

The book “Palatium Vetus: The broletto recovered in the heart of Alessandria” is the theoretical, scientific and cognitive achievement of the complex restoration and enhancement, that have returned to the building its role of town prominent features, one of the main focal points of its architectural and urban history. The volume is presented as a result of a large-scale cultural relationship, created and programmed between the ‘Palazzo del governatore' of Alessandria and the Politecnico di Torino. The use of innovative technologies of representation, aimed to combine – also edited in new forms – the concept of 'Digital History', constitute a useful opportunity of welding between the correctness of the contents, the scientific-disciplinary outcome and the divulgative effectiveness. The 'Virtual Communication' becomes a media that clarifies the new role of the restored building as cultural center, able to revamp the image of the entire local community.
Building Learning Spaces
Authors: Starr-Glass David
Published: February 2018

The learning space that online distance learners enter is critically important. The space provides access to learning activities, but it also establishes an environment in which knowledge can be effectively co-created and shared. Designing the learning space involves making decisions about intent, pedagogical priorities, and technological affordances. Online learning spaces communicate educational and social intent and must be designed around the interests, concerns, and cultures of their users. However, the learning space must also embody the vales and perspectives of the instructor/facilitator and the institution that offers the educational experience. This case study presents two situations in which learning spaces were created for specific online courses offered for distinctive learner populations: international students in a Cross-Cultural Management course and U.S. military members enrolled in a Management and Organizational Design course. To explain how these learning spaces were constructed, the case study presents a brief evolutionary history of distance learning and virtual learning spaces. It analyzes two design contexts using an organizational-educational-pedagogical approach. The analysis incorporates differing learner anticipations, concerns, and cultural perspectives and invites the reader to consider appropriate learning space design. This case study also encourages readers to consider their own solutions to these specific learning space challenges. Recommendations and suggestions are made about the ways in which these specific cases might be generalized to different contexts.
Considerations for Online English Language Learning
Authors: Dogoriti Evriklea , Pange Jenny
Published: February 2018

This chapter examines the influence of Facebook (FB) in formal and informal learning in the language classroom. The theoretical framework of Web-based language teaching is first introduced. A selection of studies concerning the use of Social Networking Sites in the teaching of English (ELT) and conclusions drawn from the literature follow suit. The studies have been selected on the grounds of discussing students' engagement, motivation, collaboration, and communication through the use of SNS and, for the most part, Facebook in ELT. The studies also focus on the attitudes of higher education, foreign language learners towards FB, as well as the potential of FB as an academic teaching medium that may support other Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools like Learning Management Systems. The review of the studies indicates that Facebook may reinforce communication skills and engagement in the learning process and support participation and collaborative learning in formal learning environments.
iPad Usage and Appropriate Applications
Authors: Bennett Julia , Lin Fan-Yu
Published: February 2018

Mobile learning, learning delivered or accompanied by any handheld or individual device that contributes to increasing knowledge or skills, has continuously become popular in educational systems in the 21st century. Apple's iPad has been a popular mobile device that has been chosen for us in 1-to-1 learning environments. Research suggests that utilizing iPads in educational settings is beneficial due to its affordance, portability, ubiquitous access to information, ability to communicate with other iPad users, and the opportunity it offers to showcase creativity and individuality through various applications. Studies have found value in providing students with their own iPads. This chapter overviews both the benefits and concerns of iPad usage in K-12 classrooms. Furthermore, specific web and iPad applications are discussed. When educators take appropriate steps to create a controlled learning environment, concerns and limitations regarding mobile learning with an iPad can be diminished.
A Case Study of Online MBA Courses
Authors: Magjuka Richard J. , Liu Xiaojing
Published: February 2018

This chapter presents a case study that examines the perceptions of online students and instructors regarding their experiences in a reputable online MBA program. The findings indicate that both the instructors and students exhibited a high level of satisfaction with their online experiences in the program and positive attitude toward online learning in general. This study also explores the in-depth views of the online participants on several key components of online business education, including online learning facilitation and interaction, virtual teamwork, and Case-Based Learning (CBL). The issues and challenges identified in the study indicate a need for the instructors and students to receive more guidance and support, technologically and pedagogically, in order to create a more engaging and fruitful online learning environment.
A Blended Chinese-as-a-Foreign-Language Short Course
Authors: Zhang Shenglan
Published: February 2018

This study investigated learners' perceived effectiveness of a blended Chinese non-credit bearing short course designed for engineering students with no prior knowledge about Chinese language. Few studies have examined how to design blended Chinese courses for beginning learners. The design of this study was based on the framework of parameters proposed by Neumeier (2005). Bloom's taxonomy of learning objectives in the cognitive domain was adopted in deciding on the time distribution to the two modes (Face-To-Face and online), and on sequencing the two modes. FTF was the lead mode with activities that help learners apply and practice what they learned creatively. Online activities were designed mainly to help learners memorize vocabularies, analyze word order, and comprehend culture. Data were collected through a survey and an informal interview. The findings show that the design is effective but improvements are needed.
Perceptions and Viability of Launching LIS E-Learning Programs in Developing Countries
Authors: Hirsh Sandra , Faires Debbie , Hines Alice
Published: February 2018

E-Learning is still relatively uncommon in developing countries, but there is growing interest. This case study explores the factors influencing readiness to launch e-learning of a Library and Information Science (LIS) program in a developing country, with a focus on understanding attitudes toward e-learning and the viability of transitioning to an online delivery model in Vietnam. A technology infrastructure assessment was performed to understand whether changes were needed at Vietnam National University to support e-learning, and 5 key informant interviews and 4 focus group sessions with 39 participants were performed with faculty, graduate and undergraduate students, members of the professional community, and administrators to understand their usage of technology and their perceptions and attitudes toward e-learning. Study findings suggest the importance of understanding the cultural context and the need for further e-learning research, as well as the steps needed for e-learning readiness and integration.
Hard-Learned Lessons
Authors: Weissinger Sandra E. , Esmail Ashraf
Published: February 2018

After Hurricane Katrina, numerous studies and policy reports addressed the plight of higher education in New Orleans ( and serve as examples). Of importance to this chapter are those works that focus on the well-being and renewal strategies of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the city () and, in particular, the role that technology plays in addressing the needs of displaced students and strengthening online degree generating programs. This chapter investigates the work of one particular HBCU—North-South—that, post Katrina, had great hopes of building online classes and programs of study. The goal, as articulated by school officials just after Katrina, was twofold: to attract the former student population and to develop a permanent, disaster-ready alternative to traditional on-the-ground classes. Data demonstrate that work to build and maintain online classes has been fragmented, declining significantly by 2008 and benefiting students in a select few programs.
Integration of Web 2 Technologies for ODL
Authors: Vaishnav Rajshree Satish
Published: February 2018

The world today is a complex one with issues and concerns emerging that were absent even a generation ago. Education and technology in the present millennium is not a luxury but commodity for survival in the present knowledge driven tech innovative society. In today's online era, the concept of a traditional classroom teaching extends beyond a walled room with desks and chairs and into the realm of cyber space. The Research findings presented here are derived from a systematic researches conducted to know the effectiveness of various modes of online learning and face-to-face instruction for teaching various subject /courses at different level. The goal of such studies as a whole is to provide policy-makers, administrators and educators with research-based guidance about how to implement different platforms of online learning for school/ higher education and teacher preparation. The locus of such researches was students studying in different institutions at different levels in India.
Supporting Student Self-Regulation
Authors: Kenney Jane , Newcombe Ellen
Published: February 2018

Research studies are discovering the importance of self-regulation for successful online learning. Self-regulation requires learners to be actively involved in the management of their learning and includes setting, monitoring, and evaluating learning goals, and making any necessary modifications to learning strategies (Zimmerman, 2008). This chapter discusses students' perceptions of the effectiveness of different types of learning supports that the authors used in a blended, flipped undergraduate education course to help students with self-regulation. The perceptions of high and low self-regulated students are compared and recommendations made about what supports to include when designing an online course to ensure successful learning.
Meaningful Gamification for Journalism Students to Enhance Their Critical Thinking Skills
Authors: Huang Ling-Yi , Yeh Yu-Chu
Published: February 2018

Training in critical thinking is essential for the professional development of journalism students. To achieve this goal, this study developed a gamified platform and a blended learning curriculum. During an 18-week experimental instruction period, a series of instructional activities, which included online discussions as well as classroom lectures and discussions, were conducted to enhance 32 journalism students' critical-thinking dispositions and skills. Repeated measure analysis of variance on test scores and analyses of open questions found that the participants significantly improved their critical thinking skills and dispositions through the gamified platform with the experimental instruction in a blended learning environment. The findings suggest that providing clear goals, challenges and quests, feedback, competition and cooperation, actual grading and visible status, access/ unlocking content, onboarding time restrictions, freedom of choice, and new identities and roles, as well as avoidance of over-justification, contributes to achieving a “meaningful gamification” experience, which may further lead to self-determined learning in critical thinking.
Blended Learning in Higher Education
Authors: Manzoor Amir
Published: February 2018

This chapter aims to explore Pakistani students' perspective on an appropriate mix of online and-face-to-face activities in different courses offered at various UK universities. Identifying aspects that students evaluate as supportive, challenging and efficient in their learning is important for the design of an appropriate mix in blended learning courses. A questionnaire was provided to the respondents consisting of both open-ended and closed questions. Applying both statistical and content analysis, this chapter provides a deeper understanding of students' responses and concludes that blended learning is an approach that supports a range of learning styles and life styles.
Social Presence in Online Dissertation Classes
Authors: Shen Libi , Chen Irene Linlin
Published: February 2018

This chapter reports on the results of a study that explored doctoral learners' perceptions of social presence in online dissertation courses. Seven doctoral graduates were interviewed to understand how social presence functions in online dissertation courses, whether social presence influences their dissertation completion, and how technological tools help improve social presence in the dissertation courses. The results of this study indicate that social presence plays an important role in online dissertation courses. Students' course satisfaction and learning outcome were associated with the degree of social presence. The use of emoticons, emails, and phone calls in online dissertation courses increased students' sense of social presence. Students were more satisfied with instructors who interacted with them frequently and who provided detailed and constructive feedback in a timely manner. Recommendations for further research are included.
Adult Millennials
Authors: Bourke Brian
Published: February 2018

Discussions about students in post-secondary education are often based on divisions of distinct subpopulations, which are in turn often based on demographics or generational status. In the context of adult learners who are also members of the Millennial generation, there exist no discussions of the overlaps between the two groups. In this chapter, the author provides an overview of the characteristics of both adult learners and members of the Millennial generation. Following a comparison of the characteristics of the two groups, the author offers a perspective of a distinct subpopulation: Adult Millennials. After offering strategies for working with Adult Millennials, with attention to online learning environments, the chapter concludes with suggestions for further research addressing Adult Millennials.
Reflections on Distance Higher Education in Africa
Authors: Mkonongwa Luka Mathayo , Komba Sotco Claudius
Published: February 2018

This chapter examines literature about distance higher education in Africa, as presented by different scholars. The evolution of distance education has been well explored from the print to the current era of information and communication technology. Challenges and opportunities in the provision of distance higher education have been discussed and better practices for providing quality distance education have been suggested. It is concluded that the provision of distance education must be carefully planned and the technologies employed in its delivery must be reflective of the context in which they are used.
Fantasy Sports and Gambling in Sport
Authors: Ditizio Amber A.
Published: February 2018

Modern sports/media complex may be the result of complex inactions of communication technologies, social developments, and the increased sophistication of businesses in understanding the intrinsic and extrinsic aspects of consumer behavior. From the promotion options of print media, television and radio, to the self-engaging aspects of Internet sport coverage and gaming, the spectator is rapidly becoming an integral part of the branding process. Media, especially fantasy sports, has transcended the traditional roles of television's function as agents of exposure to engagement and personal involvement in athletic contest and its merchandising. Although the media aspect may been neglected in sports research, media research traditionally has considered sports too popular for traditional research. This paper explores some of the major topics for research that combines sports and newer forms of media exploitation for marketing purposes.
Sport Management and Sustainability Innovation Challenges
Authors: Tortora Marco
Published: February 2018

In the first part of the book, the focus was on introducing the conceptual (Transition Studies) and first practical tolls (sustainable innovation) to set the scene to a deeper analysis of the effective role of grassroots innovation in sport for a sustainable future. This chapter opens the second part of the book by analyzing how sport management studies have analyzed the role of and relationship between innovation and sustainability. From a theoretical and practical perspective, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) function seems to be the area of study and application that could better create a relationship between sustainability and innovation in sport. Innovative CSR seems to be the managerial approach that from mainstream organizations and practices could give grassroots sports organizations practical guidelines to design and develop novel solutions for societal needs. The chapter concludes that a different approach (niche) should be considered for grassroots sport organizations.
The Passion That Unites Us All
Authors: Mastromartino Brandon , Chou Wen-Hao Winston , Zhang James J.
Published: February 2018

Sports fans are individuals who are interested in and follow a sport, team, and/or athlete. These fans reinforce their identity as a fan by engaging in supportive and repetitive consumption behaviors that relate to the sport or team they are so passionate about. This chapter will provide an overview of the history and cultural heritage of sports fandom, discuss the significance and functions of fandom, underline what motivates individuals to consume sports, examine the consequences and results of fandom, and highlight contemporary research and developmental trends. This chapter will allow for a good understanding of where research on sports fandom is headed and the important issues affecting sports fans.
The Rise of the Modern Sports Article
Authors: Sadri Sean R.
Published: February 2018

The evolution of online media has brought forth a new age of fandom online for sport enthusiasts with access to hundreds of new sports articles daily. This chapter touches on the perceived credibility of the modern sports article and provides evidence from scholarly studies, including the author's own sports credibility study. The study examines how article source, medium, fan identification, and user comment tone can all impact the credibility of a sports article. Study participants were randomly assigned to read a sports article in 1 of 12 stimuli groups. The article source was indicated to have appeared on a mainstream sports website, a sports blog, a social networking site, or a wire service as well as with positive comments, negative comments, or without comments. Analysis revealed that fan identification level was an important factor in credibility ratings as highly identified fans found the article to be significantly more credible than low identification fans as a whole. The study implications and factors influencing the credibility of an online sports article are explored.
Bollywood Sporting Spectacles
Authors: Raj Sony Jalarajan , Sreekumar Rohini
Published: February 2018

Indian Premier League (IPL) has evolved as a popular event for the large entertainment savvy middle class as well as sports enthusiasts who equally enjoy the new live spectacle on television. Most of the franchised team is owned by Bollywood stars or at least branded or heralded by film star. This made cricket match an extremely glamorized event with all the mix of a Bollywood film. This revolutionized the entertainment culture of public where they are now witnessing the merging of the most popular entertainment outlet – film and sports. The chapter argues that the concept of IPL as a media event is identified by the public as a glorified Bollywood film where it set an ideology that every second should be enjoyed with a similar enthusiasm of a masala Bollywood film. This chapter situates IPL with the larger framework provided by Dayan and Katz (1992) in defining a media event.
A Study on the Interface Between Arts and Sciences
Authors: Siqueira de Freitas Alexandre
Published: February 2018

This chapter discusses issues related to two fields of knowledge: neuroesthetics and cognitive neuroscience of art. These two fields represent areas that link historically dichotomic instances: nature and culture. In the first section, the author introduces a brief discussion on this dichotomy, reified here as science and art/aesthetics. Based on a preliminary analysis of these fields, as well as potential interfaces and articulations, the author then situates neuroesthetics and cognitive science of art. In both cases, the main definitions, usual criticisms, and comments on potential expectations regarding the future of these two areas will be presented.
Cognitive and Neural Mechanisms Involved in Interactions Between Touch and Emotion
Authors: Zhang Zhilin , Yan Tianyi , Huang Qiang , Wu Jinglong
Published: February 2018

Touch has been described as the most fundamental means of contact with the world and the most primitive modality among all sensory systems. In the past, the study of emotional communication has focused almost exclusively on facial and vocal channels but has ignored the channel for the sense of touch. However, the latest studies have documented that the sense of touch can convey at least six emotions, and its accuracy rate is comparable to that of facial expressions and vocal communication. Moreover, there is also mounting evidence indicating that the modality of touch encompasses two dimensions, which provide not only its well-recognized discriminative input from glabrous skin to sensory cortex but also an affective input from hairy skin to the insular cortex because a type of low-threshold mechanosensitive receptor that innervates hairy skin has been shown to convey emotions via C fibers. In light of recent advances in our research, this chapter aims to illustrate the cognitive and neural mechanisms that underlie interactions between touch and emotion.
Neuromarketing and the Potential Application of Scientific Methods in Measuring Consumer Behaviour
Authors: Bulley Cynthia A. , Adu-Brobbey Veronica , Duodu Esther O.
Published: February 2018

Consumer behaviour studies have taken a new turn. Marketers, economists and other consumer related disciplines are looking to science to accurately determine consumer behaviour. The purpose of this chapter is to provide insight into a burgeoning field of study, neuromarketing, documenting various research studies and applications of mechanisms in determining brain activities and other uses of science to benefit marketing research. Data for the study is derived from impartial cross-referencing of conceptual and empirical articles published in major journals. The application of neuroimaging technique in research have provided marketers with concrete evidence of brain activation that signal increased activities during stimulation (Lewis & Bridger, 2005; Rossiter et al., 2001). Further, the implication and causes of concern in using neuroscience methods in marketing are highlighted. Developing country studies on neuromarketing are examined to determine its application and use as a marketing research tool.
Pro-Active Digital Citizenship
Authors: Farmer Lesley
Published: February 2018

Technology advances, particularly in terms of information access and sharing, give rise to complex ethical issues that youth need to grapple with. Digital citizenship necessitates gleaning electronic information and participating actively and ethically in cyberspace to act wisely on that information for social and personal improvement. Today's youth tend to avoid traditional politics; instead, they get their information about the public sphere from social media and engage in lifestyle causes. This chapter explores the role of digital citizenship, civic engagement and the impact of technology on it, current issues in pro-active digital citizenship, conditions for teaching proactive digital citizenship, its curriculum and instruction, and the potential of citizen journalism as a mechanism for facilitating youth-centered proactive digital citizenship.
The Empowerment Dynamic Approach to Transformational Self-Directed Lifelong Learning
Authors: Norris Sharon E.
Published: February 2018

The dreaded drama triangle is a toxic dysfunction that hinders growth, effectiveness, and productivity among individuals, groups, and organizations. There are three predominant roles in the dreaded drama triangle: victim, persecutor, and rescuer. The purpose of this chapter is to outline the drama triangle roles, explore how the drama triangle roles hinder individual growth and group development, and introduce the empowerment dynamic as an approach that facilitates transformational self-directed lifelong learning.
Need We Train Online Instructors?
Authors: Gibson Patricia K. , Kinsey Thomas
Published: February 2018

In an online setting, it is critical to understand the factors that influence learning outcomes and student satisfaction. Group work or collaborative learning is frequently prescribed as a vital part of online classes. Learning outcomes and student satisfaction in both research and anecdotal evidence show mixed results. A qualitative, multi-case study was undertaken to determine the role of instructor training on student learning outcomes and student satisfaction within the online class using group work. Data were collected via an online survey, personal interviews, and document examination. Analysis of those data revealed that those instructors using group work who had the most training and assistance in the design and facilitation of classes had the highest level of student satisfaction as well as the highest student perception of good learning outcomes. The data show that the amount of instructor training undertaken had a major impact on how students reacted to the classes.
The Impact of Storytelling in Leadership
Authors: Ellington Linda
Published: February 2018

Tell the organizational story! Take the data of the organization and turn it into real people doing real things and you just might influence education. This chapter demonstrates the relevance of the skills of storytelling and its impact on change. Leaders who tell stories compellingly communicate important messages in a memorable way, develop more effective relationships with those they lead, and create an inspirational culture as their organizations go through positive change. Storytelling does not need to be a foreign concept, as we can all search our own history and experiences of important lessons learned that can be communicated in the form of a narrative. The role of stories and storytelling contribute to a positive organizational approach – positive in the sense of positive psychology, positive organizational psychology, and appreciate inquiry.
Positive Scholarship for K-20 Education in Africa
Authors: Gyamfi Gerald D.
Published: February 2018

Challenges of the modern global world require a change in thinking and reform of educational curricular to incorporate means through which education can enhance scholarship and career advancement for adult learners in Africa. The main objective of this chapter is to develop K-20 educational strategies that promote scholarship and career development to meet the complex human resource demand of the business industry in Africa. The exploration focuses on the type of education that combines both work and scholarship through formal and informal means. The chapter critically examines the approaches that educational institutions should follow to enrich their curricular activities with work experience. The author discusses the means through which the opportunities from the industry could be employed to create conducive learning environment for learners pursuing K-20 education.
Design and Development of Member Platform of Public Platform for Service Outsourcing Association
Authors: Gao Ran , Ye Liu
Published: February 2018

In this article, the authors will analyze the development of the platform from two aspects of demand analysis and design process, and the feasibility of the technology to explore the specific methods of implementation, as well as the design of test cases. A detailed description of the design requirements and functions of the service outsourcing platform, and the flow chart of the platform. The service platform uses a wide range of application of the JAVA language. Complete the verification and preservation of large amounts of data is released on the accuracy of the project in order to facilitate the establishment of the database, with data management based on MySQL. The bottom layer uses the Struts2+Spring3+MyBatis framework. The platform can meet the user release of the project and bidding information management requirements. Also, it has an overall friendly interface, perfect information storage, is accurate, and easy to use.
Evaluating the Accessibility of Computer Laboratories, Libraries, and Websites in Jordanian Universities and Colleges
Authors: Abu Doush Iyad , Alhami Ikdam
Published: February 2018

This article evaluates the accessibility computer laboratories, libraries, and web sites of five different institutions of higher education in Jordan. The evaluation is performed using a questionnaire and by expert visiting these institutions of higher education to check their accessibility according to a set of universal standard collected from the literature. The analysis of the results revealed a serious weakness in understanding, adopting and implementing web accessibility guidelines throughout nearly all evaluated Jordanian universities and colleges. On the other hand, the accessibility of computer laboratories and libraries the questionnaire answers show that there is environmental barrier and technological barrier for persons with disabilities to access such services. The article points out the importance of improving awareness, training staff and developers, and developing formal guidelines to improve the accessibility of universities and colleges services.
BIM-Based Knowledge Management in Construction Projects
Authors: Wang Hao , Meng Xianhai
Published: February 2018

Construction organizations have increasingly realized the importance of knowledge management (KM). They have also increasingly applied various tools and strategies to manage their knowledge. Due to the temporary nature of construction projects, however, there continues to be certain barriers and challenges of KM that are hard to overcome. This article explores the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) to achieve better KM in UK construction organizations. First of all, why and how BIM can facilitate KM in construction projects are identified from the literature review. Secondly, a questionnaire survey in quantitative measurement is used to investigate key aspects of KM that can be improved by using BIM. The results of quantitative data analysis are further discussed with the help of literature review. It is found in this article that BIM has the potential to support KM in construction projects. In particular, BIM contributes to proactive KM, lifecycle KM, and KM processes. The findings of this article provide researchers and practitioners with a better understanding of BIM-based KM.
A Novel Hybrid MCDM Approach Based on Fuzzy DEMATEL, ANP, and Fuzzy VIKOR for Selecting the Best Project Managers
Authors: Khodadadi Ekhtiar , Aghabeigi Mehdi
Published: February 2018

Selecting the best managers from several proposed alternatives is a key factor in project success. The act of selecting administer is a multi-indicatory issue which includes qualitative and quantitative criteria that might be in contradiction or even might be vague. Therefore, complexity and importance of the problem requires using of analytical procedures rather than intuitive decisions. In the current article, first, the managerial competency criteria has been identified based on the library studies and surveys of specialists in the community. A Fuzzy DEMATEL method has been used for the sake of prioritizing the evaluation criteria and also for the relationship between effective criteria on the choice of superior managers of the project, afterward Analytic Network Process was applied for determining the weight criteria. In the end, a fuzzy multi-criteria model was designed, and through using metology, fuzzy sets and fuzzy VIKOR techniques, management substitution candidates have been prioritized.
Many Th Cell Subsets Have Fas Ligand–Dependent Cytotoxic Potential
Authors: Kotov Dmitri I. , Kotov Jessica A. , Goldberg Michael F. , Jenkins Marc K.
Published: February 2018

CD4+ Th cells can have cytotoxic activity against cells displaying relevant peptide-MHC class II (p:MHCII) ligands. Cytotoxicity may be a property of Th1 cells and depends on perforin and the Eomes transcription factor. We assessed these assertions for polyclonal p:MHCII-specific CD4+ T cells activated in vivo in different contexts. Mice immunized with an immunogenic peptide in adjuvant or infected with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus or Listeria monocytogenes bacteria induced cytotoxic Th cells that killed B cells displaying relevant p:MHCII complexes. Cytotoxicity was dependent on Fas expression by target cells but was independent of Eomes or perforin expression by T cells. Although the priming regimens induced different proportions of Th1, Th17, regulatory T cells, and T follicular helper cells, the T cells expressed Fas ligand in all cases. Reciprocally, Fas was upregulated on target cells in a p:MHCII-specific manner. These results indicate that many Th subsets have cytotoxic potential that is enhanced by cognate induction of Fas on target cells.
Cell-Specific Requirements for STAT Proteins and Type I IFN Receptor Signaling Discretely Regulate IL-24 and IL-10 Expression in NK Cells and Macrophages
Authors: Dabitao Djeneba , Hedrich Christian M. , Wang Fengying , Vacharathit Vimvara , Bream Jay H.
Published: February 2018

Il10 forms a cytokine cluster with Il19, Il20, and Il24 in a conserved region of chromosome 1. The latter genes are in the IL-20 subfamily of IL-10–related cytokines and, although they are not as well studied their biologic actions and expression patterns, seem to have little in common with IL-10. IL-24, like IL-10, however, is uniquely expressed in T cells and is a signature gene of the Th2 lineage, which suggests they could be coregulated in certain cell types. Little is known about other cellular sources of IL-24. We investigated IL-24 and IL-10 expression in murine macrophages and NK cells, and found that although they are coexpressed under most stimulation conditions, IL-24 and IL-10 are controlled by distinct, cell type–specific pathways. In bone marrow–derived macrophages, optimal IL-24 expression required LPS+IL-4 costimulation and STAT6 but was independent of type I IFN receptor signaling and STAT4. Conversely, LPS-induced IL-10 was independent of IL-4/STAT6 and STAT4 but, consistent with other reports, required type I IFN receptor signaling for optimal expression. Remarkably, NK-specific IL-24 (but not IL-10) expression was dependent on both type I IFN receptor signaling and STAT4. Induction of IL-24 expression was accompanied by cell-specific recruitment of STAT6 and STAT4 to multiple sites that we identified within Il24, which mediated STAT-dependent histone modifications across the gene. Collectively, our results indicate that despite being coexpressed, IL-10 and IL-24 are independently regulated by different type I IFN receptor signaling pathways in innate immune cells and provide insight into the mechanisms that fine-tune cell type–specific gene expression within the Il10 cluster.
Absolute gradings on ECH and Heegaard Floer homology
Authors: Ramos Vinicius Gripp Barros
Published: February 2018

In joint work with Yang Huang, we defined a canonical absolute grading on Heegaard Floer homology by homotopy classes of oriented 2-plane fields. A similar grading was defined on embedded contact homology by Michael Hutchings. In this paper we show that the isomorphism between these homology theories defined by Colin, Ghiggini, and Honda preserves this grading.
Assessing the clogging and permeability of degrading packed bed reactors
Authors: Botes Anthin , James Chris , Sheridan Craig M
Published: February 2018

In South Africa, the need for water treatment is increasing, especially in the mining sector. As active water treatment technologies are expensive, the mining sector has an increasing need for passive water treatment technology, with low maintenance and operating costs, yet efficient water treatment ability. Literature on passive water treatment suggests that these systems only offer a narrow range of treatment capabilities. Therefore, hybrid water treatment systems could be a solution to low-cost water treatment in South Africa. The degrading packed bed reactor (DPBR) is one of the units comprising the hybrid treatment group. The DPBR’s main action is to convert sulfates into sulfides and alkalinity, since this reduces the impact on the environment by increasing the pH and reducing the salinity. In this study, 6 small-scale DPBRs were constructed. Each was classified according to its unique organic source (manure, straw, vegetable food processing waste, wood shavings, chicken litter and a combined sample with layers of all the carbon sources). Synthetic acid mine drainage (AMD) was fed through the 6 bioreactors for a period of 3 months. Permeabilities, leachate samples and effective void volumes were measured from the DPBRs. From the experiments conducted, it was found that the manure and combination bioreactors (with equal layers of manure, straw, compost, wood shavings and chicken litter) had the lowest overall permeabilities, with straw and compost having the highest permeabilities. Linked to this, the experiments showed that the manure and combination bioreactors had the largest decreases in effective porosity with straw and compost having the least. Hydraulically, the combination bioreactor performed the best by incorporating the best attributes from each carbon source. Wood shavings preformed almost as well. Chicken litter clogged within 18 days after the initiation of the experiment and thus was the least effective substrate.
Characterization of individual ice residual particles by the single droplet freezing method: a case study in the Asian dust outflow region
Authors: Iwata Ayumi , Matsuki Atsushi
Published: February 2018

Abstract. In order to better characterize ice nucleating (IN) aerosol
particles in the atmosphere, we investigated the chemical composition, mixing
state, and morphology of atmospheric aerosols that nucleate ice under
conditions relevant for mixed-phase clouds. Five standard mineral dust
samples (quartz, K-feldspar, Na-feldspar, Arizona test dust, and Asian dust
source particles) were compared with actual aerosol particles collected from
the west coast of Japan (the city of Kanazawa) during Asian dust events in February
and April 2016. Following droplet activation by particles deposited on
a hydrophobic Si (silicon) wafer substrate under supersaturated air, individual IN
particles were located using an optical microscope by gradually cooling the
temperature to −30 ∘C. For the aerosol samples, both the IN active
particles and non-active particles were analyzed individually by atomic force
microscopy (AFM), micro-Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy
(SEM) coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Heterogeneous
ice nucleation in all standard mineral dust samples tested in this study was
observed at consistently higher temperatures (e.g., −22.2 to −24.2 ∘C
with K-feldspar) than the homogeneous freezing temperature (−36.5 ∘C). Meanwhile, most of
the IN active atmospheric particles formed ice below −28 ∘C, i.e.,
at lower temperatures than the standard mineral dust samples of pure
components. The most abundant IN active particles above −30 ∘C
were predominantly irregular solid particles that showed clay mineral
characteristics (or mixtures of several mineral components). Other than clay,
Ca-rich particles internally mixed with other components, such as sulfate,
were also regarded as IN active particle types. Moreover, sea salt particles
were predominantly found in the non-active fraction, and internal mixing with
sea salt clearly acted as a significant inhibiting agent for the ice
nucleation activity of mineral dust particles. Also, relatively pure or fresh
calcite, Ca(NO3)2, and (NH4)2SO4 particles were
more often found in the non-active fraction. In this study, we demonstrated
the capability of the combined single droplet freezing method and thorough
individual particle analysis to characterize the ice nucleation activity of
atmospheric aerosols. We also found that dramatic changes in the particle
mixing states during long-range transport had a complex effect on the ice
nucleation activity of the host aerosol particles. A case study in the Asian
dust outflow region highlighted the need to consider particle mixing states,
which can dramatically influence ice nucleation activity.
UV measurements at Marambio and Ushuaia during 2000–2010
Authors: Lakkala Kaisa , Redondas Alberto , Meinander Outi , Thölix Laura , Hamari Britta , Almansa Antonio Fernando , Carreno Virgilio , Deferrari Guillermo , Ochoa Hector , Bernhard Germar , Sanchez Ricardo , de Leeuw Gerardus
Published: February 2018

Abstract. Solar ultraviolet (UV) irradiances were measured with NILU-UV multichannel radiometers at Ushuaia (54° S) and Marambio (64° S) between 2000 and 2013. The measurements were part of the Antarctic NILU-UV network, which was started in cooperation between Spain, Argentina and Finland. The erythemally weighted UV irradiance time series of both stations were analyzed for the first time in this study. The quality assurance procedures included a traveling refence instrument to transfer the irradiance scale to the stations. The time series were homogenized and high quality measurements were available for the period 2000–2010. During this period UV indices of 11 or more were measured on 5 and 35 days at Marambio and Ushuaia, correspondingly. At Marambio, the peak daily maximum UV index of 12 and dailydoses of around 7 kJ/m2 were measured in November 2007. Typically the highest UV daily doses were at both stations around 6 kJ/m2, and they occurred on time periods, when the station was inside the polar vortex with very low total ozone amount. At both stations, dailydoses of late November could even exceed those of summer. At Marambio, in some years, also dailydoses in October can be as high as those during the summer. At Ushuaia, the peak daily maximum UV index of 13 was measured twice: in November 2003 and 2009. Also during those days, the station of Ushuaia was inside the polar vortex.