bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Antimicrobial Activity of Algae Extracts on Bacteria Responsible of External Otitis
Authors: Pane Gianluca , Cacciola Gabriele , Giacco Elisabetta , Mariottini Gian , Coppo Erika
Published: October 2015

External otitis is a diffuse inflammation around the external auditory canal and auricle, which is often occurred by microbial infection. This disease is generally treated using antibiotics, but the frequent occurrence of antibiotic resistance requires the development of new antibiotic agents. In this context, unexplored bioactive natural candidates could be a chance for the production of targeted drugs provided with antimicrobial activity. In this paper, microbial pathogens were isolated from patients with external otitis using ear swabs for over one year, and the antimicrobial activity of the two methanol extracts from selected marine (Dunaliella salina) and freshwater (Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata) microalgae was tested on the isolated pathogens. Totally, 114 bacterial and 11 fungal strains were isolated, of which Staphylococcus spp. (28.8%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) (24.8%) were the major pathogens. Only three Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) strains and 11 coagulase-negative Staphylococci showed resistance to methicillin. The two algal extracts showed interesting antimicrobial properties, which mostly inhibited the growth of isolated S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella spp. with MICs range of 1.4 × 109 to 2.2 × 1010 cells/mL. These results suggest that the two algae have potential as resources for the development of antimicrobial agents.
Oligomeric Procyanidins Interfere with Glycolysis of Activated T Cells. A Novel Mechanism for Inhibition of T Cell Function
Authors: Goto Masao , Wakagi Manabu , Shoji Toshihiko , Takano-Ishikawa Yuko
Published: October 2015

Procyanidins, which are flavonoids that are found in a variety of plant species, reduce or prevent immune disorders, such as allergy and autoimmune diseases, through an unknown mechanism. In the present study, we investigated the effects of procyanidins on the T cell receptor (TCR)-mediated responses of CD4+ T cells in vitro. Apple procyanidins strongly suppressed the proliferation of splenic CD4+ T cells that were stimulated by an anti-CD3ε antibody, as well as splenocytes stimulated by antigen, but did not alter interleukin (IL)-2 secretion from these cells. Furthermore, we found that oligomeric procyanidins strongly suppressed, in a degree of polymerization dependent manner, the proliferation of activated CD4+ T cells, as well as their production of effector cytokines, including glycolysis associated-cytokines, without affecting IL-2 secretion. Additionally, we investigated the inhibitory effects of oligomeric procyanidins on the glycolytic activity of activated CD4+ T cells. We show that pentameric procyanidin suppressed L-lactate production and glucose uptake in activated CD4+ T cells. These results suggest that oligomeric procyanidins suppress the functions of activated CD4+ T cells by interfering with glycolysis.
Synthesis and Evaluation of New Pyrazoline Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: Karabacak Muhammed , Altıntop Mehlika , İbrahim Çiftçi Halil , Koga Ryoko , Otsuka Masami , Fujita Mikako , Özdemir Ahmet
Published: October 2015

New pyrazoline derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their cytotoxic effects on AsPC-1 human pancreatic adenocarcinoma, U87 and U251 human glioblastoma cell lines. 1-[((5-(4-Methylphenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)thio)acetyl]-3-(2-thienyl)-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-pyrazoline (11) was found to be the most effective anticancer agent against AsPC-1 and U251 cell lines, with IC50 values of 16.8 µM and 11.9 µM, respectively. Tumor selectivity of compound 11 was clearly seen between Jurkat human leukemic T-cell line and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Due to its promising anticancer activity, compound 11 was chosen for apoptosis/necrosis evaluation and DNA-cleavage analysis in U251 cells. Compound 11-treated U251 cells exhibited apoptotic phenotype at low concentration (1.5 µM). DNA-cleaving efficiency of this ligand was more significant than cisplatin and was clearly enhanced by Fe(II)-H2O2-ascorbic acid systems. This result pointed out the relationship between the DNA cleavage and the cell death.
Four Models Including Fish, Seafood, Red Meat and Enriched Foods to Achieve Australian Dietary Recommendations for n-3 LCPUFA for All Life-Stages
Authors: Fayet-Moore Flavia , Baghurst Katrine , Meyer Barbara
Published: October 2015

Populations are not meeting recommended intakes of omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFA). The aim was (i) to develop a database on n-3 LCPUFA enriched products; (ii) to undertake dietary modelling exercise using four dietary approaches to meet the recommendations and (iii) to determine the cost of the models. Six n-3 LCPUFA enriched foods were identified. Fish was categorised by n-3 LCPUFA content (mg/100 g categories as “excellent” “good” and “moderate”). The four models to meet recommended n-3 LCPUFA intakes were (i) fish only; (ii) moderate fish (with red meat and enriched foods); (iii) fish avoiders (red meat and enriched foods only); and (iv) lacto-ovo vegetarian diet (enriched foods only). Diets were modelled using the NUTTAB2010 database and n-3 LCPUFA were calculated and compared to the Suggested Dietary Targets (SDT). The cost of meeting these recommendations was calculated per 100 mg n-3 LCPUFA. The SDT were achieved for all life-stages with all four models. The weekly food intake in number of serves to meet the n-3 LCPUFA SDT for all life-stages for each dietary model were: (i) 2 “excellent” fish; (ii) 1 “excellent” and 1 “good” fish, and depending on life-stage, 3–4 lean red meat, 0–2 eggs and 3–26 enriched foods; (iii) 4 lean red meat, and 20–59 enriched foods; (iv) 37–66 enriched foods. Recommended intakes of n-3 LCPUFA were easily met by the consumption of fish, which was the cheapest source of n-3 LCPUFA. Other strategies may be required to achieve the recommendations including modifying the current food supply through feeding practices, novel plant sources and more enriched foods.
Effect of Palm Oil Bio-Based Plasticizer on the Morphological, Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Poly(Vinyl Chloride)
Authors: Lim Kar , Ching Yern , Gan Seng
Published: October 2015

Flexible poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) was fabricated using a palm oil-based alkyd as a co-plasticizer to di-octyl phthalate (DOP) and di-isononyl phthalate (DiNP). The effects of the incorporation of the palm oil-based alkyd on morphological, thermal and mechanical properties of PVC compounds were studied. Results showed the incorporation of the alkyd enhanced the mechanical and thermal properties of the PVC compounds. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results showed that the polar –OH and –C=O groups of alkyd have good interaction with the –C–Cl group in PVC via polar interaction. The morphological results showed good incorporation of the plasticizers with PVC. Improved tensile strength, elastic modulus, and elongation at break were observed with increasing amount of the alkyd, presumably due to chain entanglement of the alkyd with the PVC molecules. Thermogravimetric analysis results confirmed that the alkyd has improved the thermostability of the PVC compounds.
Monitoring the Variation in Ice-Cover Characteristics of the Slave River, Canada Using RADARSAT-2 Data—A Case Study
Authors: Chu Thuan , Das Apurba , Lindenschmidt Karl-Erich
Published: October 2015

The winter regime of river-ice covers in high northern latitude regions is often a determining factor in the management of water resources, conservation of aquatic ecosystems and preservation of traditional and cultural lifestyles of local peoples. As ground-based monitoring of river-ice regimes in high northern latitudes is expensive and restricted to a few locations due to limited accessibility to most places along rivers from shorelines, remote sensing techniques are a suitable approach for monitoring. This study developed a RADARSAT-2 based method to monitor the spatio-temporal variation of ice covers, as well as ice types during the freeze-up period, along the main channel of the Slave River Delta in the Northwest Territories of Canada. The spatio-temporal variation of ice covers along the river was analyzed using the backscatter-based coefficient of variation (CV) in the 2013–2014 and 2014–2015 winters. As a consequence of weather and flow conditions, the ice cover in the 2013–2014 winter had the higher variation than the 2014–2015 winter, particularly in the potential areas of flooded/cracked ice covers. The river sections near active channels (e.g., Middle Channel and Nagle Channel), Big Eddy, and Great Slave Lake also yielded higher intra-annual variation of ice cover characteristics during the winters. With the inclusion of backscatter and texture analysis from RADARSAT-2 data, four water and ice cover classes consisting of open water, thermal ice, juxtaposed ice, and consolidated ice, were discriminated in the images acquired between November and March in both the studied winters. In addition to river geomorphology and climatic conditions such as river width, sinuosity or air temperature, the fluctuation of water flows during the winter has a significant impact on the variation of ice cover as well as the formation of different ice types in the Slave River. The RADARSAT-2 based monitoring algorithm can also be applied to other river systems in high latitude ecosystems to annually monitor their river-ice variation and formation during the freeze-up and ice cover progression period.
Reconstructing Turbidity in a Glacially Influenced Lake Using the Landsat TM and ETM+ Surface Reflectance Climate Data Record Archive, Lake Clark, Alaska
Authors: Baughman Carson , Jones Benjamin , Bartz Krista , Young Daniel , Zimmerman Christian
Published: October 2015

Lake Clark is an important nursery lake for sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) in the headwaters of Bristol Bay, Alaska, the most productive wild salmon fishery in the world. Reductions in water clarity within Alaska lake systems as a result of increased glacial runoff have been shown to reduce salmon production via reduced abundance of zooplankton and macroinvertebrates. In this study, we reconstruct long-term, lake-wide water clarity for Lake Clark using the Landsat TM and ETM+ surface reflectance products (1985–2014) and in situ water clarity data collected between 2009 and 2013. Analysis of a Landsat scene acquired in 2009, coincident with in situ measurements in the lake, and uncertainty analysis with four scenes acquired within two weeks of field data collection showed that Band 3 surface reflectance was the best indicator of turbidity (r2 = 0.55, RMSE << 0.01). We then processed 151 (98 partial- and 53 whole-lake) Landsat scenes using this relation and detected no significant long-term trend in mean turbidity for Lake Clark between 1991 and 2014. We did, however, detect interannual variation that exhibited a non-significant (r2 = 0.20) but positive correlation (r = 0.20) with regional mean summer air temperature and found the month of May exhibited a significant positive trend (r2 = 0.68, p = 0.02) in turbidity between 2000 and 2014. This study demonstrates the utility of hindcasting turbidity in a glacially influenced lake using the Landsat surface reflectance products. It may also help land and resource managers reconstruct turbidity records for lakes that lack in situ monitoring, and may be useful in predicting future water clarity conditions based on projected climate scenarios.
An Accurate Projector Calibration Method Based on Polynomial Distortion Representation
Authors: Liu Miao , Sun Changku , Huang Shujun , Zhang Zonghua
Published: October 2015

In structure light measurement systems or 3D printing systems, the errors caused by optical distortion of a digital projector always affect the precision performance and cannot be ignored. Existing methods to calibrate the projection distortion rely on calibration plate and photogrammetry, so the calibration performance is largely affected by the quality of the plate and the imaging system. This paper proposes a new projector calibration approach that makes use of photodiodes to directly detect the light emitted from a digital projector. By analyzing the output sequence of the photoelectric module, the pixel coordinates can be accurately obtained by the curve fitting method. A polynomial distortion representation is employed to reduce the residuals of the traditional distortion representation model. Experimental results and performance evaluation show that the proposed calibration method is able to avoid most of the disadvantages in traditional methods and achieves a higher accuracy. This proposed method is also practically applicable to evaluate the geometric optical performance of other optical projection system.
The Influence of Low-Frequency Noise Pollution on the Quality of Life and Place in Sustainable Cities: A Case Study from Northern Portugal
Authors: Alves Juliana , Silva Lígia , Remoaldo Paula
Published: October 2015

Discussing urban planning requires rethinking sustainability in cities and building healthy environments. Historically, some aspects of advancing the urban way of life have not been considered important in city planning. This is particularly the case where technological advances have led to conflicting land use, as with the installation of power poles and building electrical substations near residential areas. This research aims to discuss and rethink sustainability in cities, focusing on the environmental impact of low-frequency noise and electromagnetic radiation on human health. It presents data from a case study in an urban space in northern Portugal, and focuses on four guiding questions: Can power poles and power lines cause noise? Do power poles and power lines cause discomfort? Do power poles and power lines cause discomfort due to noise? Can power poles and power lines affect human health? To answer these questions, we undertook research between 2014 and 2015 that was comprised of two approaches. The first approach consisted of evaluating the noise of nine points divided into two groups “near the source” (e.g., up to 50 m from power poles) and “away from the source” (e.g., more than 250 m away from the source). In the second approach, noise levels were measured for 72 h in houses located up to 20 m from the source. The groups consist of residents living within the distance range specified for each group. The measurement values were compared with the proposed criteria for assessing low-frequency noise using the DEFRA Guidance (University of Salford). In the first approach, the noise caused discomfort, regardless of the group. In the second approach, the noise had fluctuating characteristics, which led us to conclude that the noise caused discomfort.
UV-B Exposure Affects the Biosynthesis of Microcystin in Toxic Microcystis aeruginosa Cells and Its Degradation in the Extracellular Space
Authors: Yang Zhen , Kong Fanxiang
Published: October 2015

Microcystins (MCs) are cyclic hepatotoxic heptapeptides produced by cyanobacteria that can be toxic to aquatic and terrestrial organisms. MC synthesis and degradation are thought to be influenced by several different physical and environmental parameters. In this study, the effects of different intensities of UV-B radiation on MC biosynthesis in Microcystis cells and on its extracellular degradation were investigated by mRNA analysis and degradation experiments. Exposure to UV-B at intensities of 1.02 and 1.45 W/m2 not only remarkably inhibited the growth of Microcystis, but also led to a decrease in the MC concentration. In addition, mcyD transcription was decreased under the same UV-B intensities. These results demonstrated that the effects of UV-B exposure on the biosynthesis of MCs in Microcystis cells could be attributed to the regulation of mcy gene transcription. Moreover, the MC concentration was decreased significantly after exposure to different intensities of UV-B radiation. Of the three MC variants (MC-LR, -RR and -YR, L, R and Y are abbreviations of leucine, arginine and tyrosine), MC-LR and MC-YR were sensitive to UV-B radiation, whereas MC-RR was not. In summary, our results showed that UV-B radiation had a negative effect on MC production in Microcystis cells and MC persistence in the extracellular space.
Perspective of Use of Antiviral Peptides against Influenza Virus
Authors: Skalickova Sylvie , Heger Zbynek , Krejcova Ludmila , Pekarik Vladimir , Bastl Karel , Janda Jozef , Kostolansky Frantisek , Vareckova Eva , Zitka Ondrej , Adam Vojtech , Kizek Rene
Published: October 2015

The threat of a worldwide influenza pandemic has greatly increased over the past decade with the emergence of highly virulent avian influenza strains. The increased frequency of drug-resistant influenza strains against currently available antiviral drugs requires urgent development of new strategies for antiviral therapy, too. The research in the field of therapeutic peptides began to develop extensively in the second half of the 20th century. Since then, the mechanisms of action for several peptides and their antiviral prospect received large attention due to the global threat posed by viruses. Here, we discussed the therapeutic properties of peptides used in influenza treatment. Peptides with antiviral activity against influenza can be divided into three main groups. First, entry blocker peptides such as a Flupep that interact with influenza hemagglutinin, block its binding to host cells and prevent viral fusion. Second, several peptides display virucidal activity, disrupting viral envelopes, e.g., Melittin. Finally, a third set of peptides interacts with the viral polymerase complex and act as viral replication inhibitors such as PB1 derived peptides. Here, we present a review of the current literature describing the antiviral activity, mechanism and future therapeutic potential of these influenza antiviral peptides.
First year university student engagement using digital curation and career goal setting
Authors: Antonio Amy , Tuffley David
Published: October 2015

The engagement of students is one of the most pressing issues facing higher education in the 21st century. Around the world, participation rates in tertiary education are on the rise and one of the key challenges facing educators is finding ways to engage these students. We present the results of a project that assesses the impact of an engagement strategy in which a cohort of students entering their first year of university (1) establish and maintain a clear goal of their ideal future career and (2) make use of a web-based digital curation tool to research and present their findings. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the strategy, which could arguably be applied to a broad range of disciplines given that the majority of students today are technologically literate.Keywords: engagement; goal setting; digital curation; higher education(Pulished: 20 October 2015)Citation: Research in Learning Technology 2015, 23: 28337 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/rlt.v23.28337
Using Tablet-Based Technology in Patient Education about Systemic Therapy Options for Early-Stage Breast Cancer: A Pilot Study
Authors: Morgan E.R. , Laing K. , McCarthy J. , McCrate F. , Seal M.D.
Published: October 2015

Background: Patient education in early-stage breast cancer has been shown to improve patient well-being and quality of life, but it poses a challenge given the increasingly complex regimens and time constraints in clinical practice. Technology-aided teaching in the clinic could help to improve the understanding of adjuvant systemic therapy for patients. In this prospective pilot study, we used a clinician-administered, tablet-based teaching aid to teach patients with early-stage breast cancer about adjuvant systemic therapy. Methods: Participation was offered to newly diagnosed patients with early-stage breast cancer presenting for their first medical oncology visit at a provincial cancer centre. Participants were shown a tablet-based presentation describing procedures, rationales, risks, and benefits of adjuvant systemic therapy as an adjunct to a discussion with the medical oncologist. After the clinic visit, participants completed a questionnaire measuring satisfaction with the visit and knowledge of the treatment plan discussed. Results: The 25 patients recruited for the study had a mean age of 57 years. An offer of upfront chemotherapy alone was made to 12 participants (48%), chemotherapy with trastuzumab to 4 (16%), and hormonal therapy to 9 (36%). Correct answers to all questions related to treatment knowledge were given by 22 patients (88%). Satisfaction with the clinic visit was high (mean satisfaction score: 4.53 ± 0.1 of a possible 5). Conclusions: We found that a tablet-based presentation about adjuvant systemic therapy was satisfactory to patients with early-stage breast cancer and that knowledge retention after the clinic visit was high. Tablet-based teaching could be a feasible and effective way of educating patients in the breast oncology clinic and warrants further investigation in randomized studies.
Found in Translation: A Medical Student’s Reflection on the Emotional Realities of Translational Cancer Research
Authors: Correa R.J.M.
Published: October 2015

The packed snow yielded its familiar crunch with every step I took. Behind me, the winter daylight faded as darkness crept through the cloudless sky. With each step forward, the brick walls of the cancer centre loomed larger ahead. This was my destination for the evening. Despite my fatigue after a day of classes and clinical sessions, I believed these hours—and many more like them—were justified, for they were spent in pursuit of worthwhile scientific goals and were ultimately in service to patients [...]
Human Albumin Eye Drops as a Therapeutic Option for the Mmanagement of Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca Secondary to Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease after Stem-Cell Allografting
Authors: Seki J.T. , Sakurai N. , Moldenhauer S. , Dam J. , Atenafu E.G. , Yip P.M. , Mazzulli T. , Henderson T. , Pendergrast J. , Cserti C. , Velazquez J.P. , Simpson R. , Felluga G. , Messner H.A. , Lipton J.H.
Published: October 2015

Background:Keratoconjunctivitis sicca from chronic graft-versus-host disease (cgvhd) after allogeneic stem cell transplantation is common, leading to severe corneal damage and blindness if not treated. We retrospectively examined the efficacy and safety of pooled human albumin eye drops (haeds) for symptom relief in 40 stem-cell transplantation patients after other alternatives had failed. Methods: The Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (version 4.0) and the cgvhd grading scale were used to compare response in the patients during January 2000 and July 2013. In addition, on days 1 and 30, the haeds were subjected to quality assurance testing for sterility, oncotic pressure, albumin measurement, viscosity, pH, and purity by protein electrophoresis. Results: Use of haeds resulted in symptom relief for 37 patients (92.5%); 3 patients (7.5%) failed to improve with use of haeds (p ≤ 0.0001). Of the 37 patients having symptom relief, 7 (19%) improved from grade 3 to no dry eye symptoms. Proportionately, post-treatment symptom improvement by two grade levels, from 3 to 1 (70%), was significantly higher than improvement by one grade level, from 3 to 2 (11%) or from 2 to 1 (19%, p ≤ 0.0001). Time to symptom relief ranged from 2 weeks to 28 weeks. Of the 40 patients, 38 (95%) had no adverse reactions. Days 1 and 30 quality assurance testing results were equivalent. Conclusions: Complications of keratoconjunctivitis sicca were well managed and well tolerated with haeds when other remedies failed. Quality assurance testing confirmed that haeds were safe and stable in extreme conditions.
Machine Learning for Detecting Scallops in AUV Benthic Images
Authors: Kannappan Prasanna , Tanner Herbert G. , Trembanis Arthur C. , Walker Justin H.
Published: October 2015

A large volume of image data, in the order of thousands to millions of images, can be generated by robotic marine surveys aimed at assessment of organism populations. Manual processing and annotation of individual images in such large datasets is not an attractive option. It would seem that computer vision and machine learning techniques can be used to automate this process, yet to this date, available automated detection and counting tools for scallops do not work well with noisy low-resolution images and are bound to produce very high false positive rates. In this chapter, we hone a recently developed method for automated scallop detection and counting for the purpose of drastically reducing its false positive rate. In the process, we compare the performance of two customized false positive filtering alternatives, histogram of gradients and weighted correlation template matching.
Automated Whale Blow Detection in Infrared Video
Authors: Santhaseelan Varun , Asari Vijayan K.
Published: October 2015

In this chapter, solutions to the problem of whale blow detection in infrared video are presented. The solutions are considered to be assistive technology that could help whale researchers to sift through hours or days of video without manual intervention. Video is captured from an elevated position along the shoreline using an infrared camera. The presence of whales is inferred from the presence of blows detected in the video. In this chapter, three solutions are proposed for this problem. The first algorithm makes use of a neural network (multi-layer perceptron) for classification, the second uses fractal features and the third solution is using convolutional neural networks. The central idea of all the algorithms is to attempt and model the spatio-temporal characteristics of a whale blow accurately using appropriate mathematical models. We provide a detailed description and analysis of the proposed solutions, the challenges and some possible directions for future research.
Plant Classification for Field Robots
Authors: Haug Sebastian , Ostermann Jörn
Published: October 2015

Small size agricultural robots which are capable of sensing and manipulating the field environment are a promising approach towards more ecological, sustainable and human-friendly agriculture. This chapter proposes a machine vision approach for plant classification in the field and discusses its possible application in the context of robot based precision agriculture. The challenges of machine vision in the field are discussed at the example of plant classification for weed control. Automatic crop/weed discrimination enables new weed control strategies where single weed plants are treated individually. System development and evaluation are done using a dataset of images captured in a commercial organic carrot farm with the autonomous field robot Bonirob under field conditions. Results indicate plant classification performance with 93% average accuracy.
Cell Phone Image-Based Plant Disease Classification
Authors: Neumann Marion , Hallau Lisa , Klatt Benjamin , Kersting Kristian , Bauckhage Christian
Published: October 2015

Modern communication and sensor technology coupled with powerful pattern recognition algorithms for information extraction and classification allow the development and use of integrated systems to tackle environmental problems. This integration is particularly promising for applications in crop farming, where such systems can help to control growth and improve yields while harmful environmental impacts are minimized. Thus, the vision of sustainable agriculture for anybody, anytime, and anywhere in the world can be put into reach. This chapter reviews and presents approaches to plant disease classification based on cell phone images, a novel way to supply farmers with personalized information and processing recommendations in real time. Several statistical image features and a novel scheme of measuring local textures of leaf spots are introduced. The classification of disease symptoms caused by various fungi or bacteria are evaluated for two important agricultural crop varieties, wheat and sugar beet.
A Large Margin Learning Method for Matching Images of Natural Objects with Different Dimensions
Authors: Zhou Haoyi , Zhou Jun , Yang Haichuan , Yan Cheng , Bai Xiao , Liu Yunlu
Published: October 2015

Imaging devices are of increasing use in environmental research requiring an urgent need to deal with such issues as image data, feature matching over different dimensions. Among them, matching hyperspectral image with other types of images is challenging due to the high dimensional nature of hyperspectral data. This chapter addresses this problem by investigating structured support vector machines to construct and learn a graph-based model for each type of image. The graph model incorporates both low-level features and stable correspondences within images. The inherent characteristics are depicted by using a graph matching algorithm on extracted weighted graph models. The effectiveness of this method is demonstrated through experiments on matching hyperspectral images to RGB images, and hyperspectral images with different dimensions on images of natural objects.
A Framework for Defining and Evaluating Technology Integration in the Instruction of Real-World Skills
Authors: Harmes J. Christine , Welsh James L. , Winkelman Roy J.
Published: October 2015

The Technology Integration Matrix (TIM) was created to provide a resource for evaluating technology integration in K-12 instructional settings, and as a tool for helping to target teacher-related professional development. The TIM is comprised of 5 characteristics of meaningful learning (Active, Constructive, Authentic, Collaborative, and Goal-Directed) and 5 levels (Entry, Adoption, Adaptation, Infusion, and Transformation), resulting in 25 cells. Within each cell, descriptions are provided, along with video sample lessons from actual math, science, social studies, and language arts classrooms that illustrate a characteristic at the indicated level. Throughout development, focus groups and interviews were conducted with in-service teachers and technology specialists to validate the progression of characteristics and descriptive components.
Cross-Border Collaborative Learning in the Professional Development of Teachers
Authors: Davidson Rafi , Glassner Amnon
Published: October 2015

The goal of this chapter is to present a theoretical and practical frame for PD of teachers at the digital age. The main question we ask is how to develop life competencies and skills of teachers in order to change their learning and teaching in a way that enables school graduates to acquire relevant skills for life. The chapter inquires this issue by a qualitative methodology case study . The case is an online course for teachers' professional development. The chapter presents evidence from reflective diaries, interviews and scripts of students' and teachers' discussions, focusing on identification of the effects of the course's learning environments on the development of the teachers' self determination learning and skills. The findings indicate the useful effects of the combination between LMS environments and social media, such as Web 2.0 tools. The conclusions suggest new directions for teachers' professional development that encourage the design of a flexible fractal net which enable fostering teachers' leadership and innovation.
Using Automated Feedback to Improve Writing Quality
Authors: Wilson Joshua , Andrada Gilbert N.
Published: October 2015

Writing skills are essential for success in K-12 and post-secondary settings. Yet, more than two-thirds of students in the United States fail to achieve grade-level proficiency in writing. The current chapter discusses the use of automated essay evaluation (AEE) software, specifically automated feedback systems, for scaffolding improvements in writing skills. The authors first present a discussion of the use of AEE systems, prevailing criticisms, and findings from the research literature. Then, results of a novel study of the effects of automated feedback are reported. The chapter concludes with a discussion of implications for stakeholders and directions for future research.
Assessing Engagement during the Online Assessment of Real-World Skills
Authors: Harmes J. Christine , Wise Steven L.
Published: October 2015

The assessment of real-world skills will often require complex and innovative types of computer-based test items to provide more authentic assessment. Having information about how students remain engaged with the various innovative elements during an assessment is useful in both assessing the utility of different types of innovative test items and assessing the validity of the inferences made about the test scores of individual students. This chapter introduces the Item Engagement Index (IEI) and the Student Engagement Index (SEI) and demonstrates their use with a variety of innovative items that were pilot tested for a nursing licensure exam. The IEI provided useful information about the amount of student effort each innovative item received, while the SEI was found useful in identifying disengaged test takers.
The Role of the Professional Doctorate in Developing Professional Practice in STEM Subjects
Authors: Smith Peter , Fulton John , Irons Alastair , Sanders Gail
Published: October 2015

This chapter presents a study into the impact of the professional doctorate as a learning opportunity for STEM professionals including engineers, pharmacists, nurses, STEM teachers, healthcare professionals, and computing professionals. The professional doctorate is a relatively new approach to doctoral study, which has much to offer to STEM. This form of doctoral study encourages the candidate to undertake project work which is based in, and contributes to, their professional practice. The candidates are experienced practitioners, who wish to raise their practice to doctoral level. This chapter presents a mixed methods study, which has collected and analyzed quantitative data obtained from a survey, qualitative data obtained from focus group sessions, and in-depth narrative accounts. Analysis of these data revealed a number of themes including the importance of trans-professional working, reflection, and development of “authentic” professional voice.
Primary Grades Teachers' Fidelity of Teaching Practices during Mathematics Professional Development
Authors: Martin Christie S. , Polly Drew , Wang Chuang , Lambert Richard G. , Pugalee David
Published: October 2015

This chapter shares the findings from a study that examined primary grades teachers' fidelity of implementation during a year-long professional development program on formative assessment in mathematics. The project provided over 80 hours of professional development to elementary school teachers regarding their use of an internet-based formative assessment system for their students' mathematics achievement. This study examined teachers' online reflections and data in the internet-based assessment system to identify themes that lead to either a high fidelity or low fidelity of implementation. High fidelity teachers expressed beliefs that formative assessment supported their mathematics teaching, improved their students' learning, and was feasible to carry out in their classrooms. Low fidelity teachers' reflections were associated with numerous barriers to implementation as well as a lack of buy-in that the formative assessment system could benefit their teaching.
Teachers' Professional Development in the Digitized World
Authors: Ozdemir Emsal Ates , Dikilitaş Kenan
Published: October 2015

Professional development for in-service English language teachers has increasingly become a need in higher education not only in Turkey but across the world. Due to the limited time teachers have and the distance between the source of service and the potential participants, using digitized activities and materials have naturally become a necessity. The purpose of this research is to report the potential impact of the course described below and discuss the role of blended learning experience of professional development on the participating teachers. The theoretical background of the study is experiential learning initiated by Kolb and socio-constructivist learning theory by Vygotsky in that both theories highlight the role of experiencing the change and focus on personal meanings and learning with and from others in real and online environments.
Introducing Educational Technology into the Higher Education Environment
Authors: Van Ryneveld Linda
Published: October 2015

Over the past decade or two advancements in educational technology have taken place so swiftly that it threatens to revolutionize the education system. This phenomena seem to drive higher education institutions to respond with costly roll out plans that bring state of the art computing hard- and software, together with other highly specialized educational technologies, to their campuses. The dilemma is that these investments in educational technology are often made in isolation, without consideration for imperative aspects such as professional development. To progress, educators need to acquire the skills, knowledge and attitudes necessary to make optimal use of the technology. This can be achieved, among other, by means of well-structured professional development programmes. In this chapter the author explores the role of educational technology in higher education and establishes the need for capacity building by means of carefully designed professional development programmes. It furthermore suggests an alternative professional development framework.
Supporting the Enactment of Standards-based Mathematics Pedagogies
Authors: Polly Drew , Martin Christie , Wang Chuang , Lambert Richard G. , Pugalee David
Published: October 2015

In order for professional development in the STEM fields to be effective, teachers need worthwhile experiences to simultaneously develop their knowledge of content, pedagogy, and understanding of how students' learn the content. In this chapter we provide an overarching framework of learner-centered professional development and describe the implementation of two mathematics professional development projects designed to support elementary school teachers' mathematics teaching. We follow our description by highlighting some of the findings from our line of professional development research and provide implications for the design of learner-centered professional development programs in mathematics.
Identifying the Target Needs of Non-Native Subject Teachers Related to the Use of English in Their Professional Settings
Authors: Topkaya Ece Zehir , Nişancı İbrahim
Published: October 2015

This study primarily explores the target needs of subject teachers from various disciplines who are all non-native speakers of English and enrolled in a training program preparing them to teach their subjects in English. Secondarily, it looks into the key stakeholders' evaluation of the program to understand its effectiveness to meet the needs of the teachers. For the first question, key stakeholders were interviewed to identify the needs, wants, and lacks of the teachers based on Hutchinson and Water's (1987) needs analysis framework. Then, the pooled items were converted into a questionnaire which was administered to the teachers in the program. To investigate the second question, open-ended questions and semi-structured interviews were used. Findings revealed that participants were in need of developing productive language skills while they reported satisfaction over the program. It is concluded that a more specifically tailored course both in terms of content and practice is needed.
Impact of a Professional Development Programme on Trainee Teachers' Beliefs and Teaching Practices
Authors: Kırkgöz Yasemin
Published: October 2015

This study emerged from the concerns experienced by the last-year English language trainee teachers during their school practicum. An increasing number of trainees complained that their existing beliefs conflicted, in many ways, with the school-based mentor's teaching practice. A collaborative action research (CAR) professional development programme (PDP) was established to help prospective teachers resolve many of the dilemmas and improve their classroom practices in a 10-week practicum course. It was found that CAR has a powerful impact upon teacher candidates as it solves many of the dilemmas and concerns. Belief changes of one trainee teacher are presented as an exemplary case. While such findings can improve our understandings of pre-service teachers' cognitive learning and problem solving skills at the practicum site, they also generate useful insights into designing a PDP to promote trainee teachers' school-based professional development in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematic) education.
The Impact of Pre-service Teachers' Reflection on their Instructional Practices
Authors: Dollar Yesim Kesli , Mede Enisa
Published: October 2015

This chapter aims to investigate the impact of reflection on freshmen pre-service English teachers' classroom practices. Specifically, it explores how the participating student teachers' perceptions influenced their instructional practices as a result of participation in reflection activities. The participants of the study were ten freshmen student teachers enrolled in the English Language Teaching undergraduate program at a foundation (non-profit private) university in Turkey. Data came from the reflections of the participating student teachers about their recently-completed 15-hour field-based experience at the pre-school level. As a part of this class reflection activity, the participants were prompted to keep a diary in one of their undergraduate courses and respond to a series of statements or questions related to their classroom observation tasks. They were also engaged in class discussions and were required to write their overall feedback based on their field-based experience. The findings of the study revealed that reflective activities helped the prospective student teachers identify their strengths and weaknesses related to classroom activities, use of materials (use of technology and visuals) and classroom management, leading to self-awareness about their understanding and application of teaching skills and strategies.
Water Quality Impacts of Abattoir Activities in Southern Africa
Authors: Mujere Never
Published: October 2015

The meat processing produces solid, liquid and gaseous wastes from stockyards, abattoirs and packing plants contain blood, fats, protein, gut contents, heavy metals, antibodies, hormones and other substances. Solid and liquid wastes can lead to an impairment or disruption of water eco-functionality and a preponderance of disease-causing organisms. In developing nations, many abattoirs dispose of their waste directly into streams or rivers and also use water from the same source to wash slaughtered meat. Most solid, liquid and gaseous wastes are released into the immediate environs of the abattoir. This chapter is a literature review of the impact of untreated slaughterhouse wastewater on water quality in selected areas of Southern Africa. The review shows that abattoir activities significantly reduced the physical, chemical and microbiological quality of water bodies. Although an improvement of the water quality was observed downstream, this was a result of self-purification and dilution effects.
One Step Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Fluorinated Titania Photocatalyst
Authors: Sadovnikov Alexey A. , Baranchikov Alexander E. , Kozik Vladimir , Borilo Lyudmila P. , Kozyukhin Sergey A. , Ivanov Vladimir K.
Published: October 2015

Microwave-assisted high temperature hydrolysis of titanium oxysulfate, in the presence of ammonium fluoride, allows synthesizing nanocrystalline titanium dioxide photocatalysts possessing photocatalytic activity as high as the commercial photocatalyst Evonik Aeroxide® TiO2 P 25. Dye-sensitized reactions play an important role in organic dye discoloration in the presence of fluorinated titania.
The Effect of Support on the Surface Properties and Photocatalytic Activity of Supported TiO2 Catalysts
Authors: Vodyankin Andrei A. , Vodyankina Olga V.
Published: October 2015

In the present work two series of TiO2/SiO2 and TiO2/Al2O3 photocatalysts were investigated. The content of the active component was varied. Photocatalysts were prepared using the heterogeneous deposition method. It was revealed that the prepared photomaterials demonstrate high photocatalytic activity in decomposition of organic compounds in water solutions, and application of SiO2 aerogel as a support ensured the incorporation of TiO2 into the structure of the support via formation of Ti-O-Si bonds. The prepared materials, in which the active component is under the influence of electron-acceptor media, demonstrated enhanced selectivity of the surface towards the ability to generate electronic vacancies (about 90%). According to the experimental data, TiO2/SiO2 photocatalysts proved to be more active in comparison with TiO2/Al2O3 materials.
Sensor Based on Metals Acetylacetonates for Determination of Organic Substances Vapour in the Atmosphere
Authors: Gazieva Elizaveta A. , Gavrilenko Nataliya A. , Kasymova Tatiana A. , Gavrilenko Mikhail A.
Published: October 2015

There has been designed a sensor with detectors based on adsorption layers of metals acetylacetonates to measure air pollution components concentration. The electrical conductivity of the obtained sensor was studied under various synthesis conditions, temperature and detected substances kinds. The sensor was tested on model gaseous mixture and applied to detect organic substances in the environment.
Quantitative Evaluation of Polarity of Silica Gel Modified with Transition Metals Chelates for Gas Chromatography
Authors: Makarycheva Aleksandra I. , Slizhov Yury G.
Published: October 2015

New packings based on Silochrome C80 modified with Cu (II), Co (II) and Ni (II) 8-oxyquinolinates were studied. Their sorption characteristics and chromatographic properties were investigated and the comparative evaluation of sorbents polarity was carried out by applying Rohrschneider-McReynolds coefficients system, thermodynamic data and using the solvation parameter model of Abraham. It was found that the nature of metal and complex structure have a decisive influence on the physico-chemical properties of the packings. Modified silica gels show high selectivity for gas chromatographic separation of oxygen containing and aromatic organic compounds.
Evaluation of fipronil baits against Microtermes mycophagus (Blattodea: Termitidae)
Authors: Iqbal Naeem , Evans Theodore A. , Saeed Shafqat , Khan Hafiz Azhar Ali
Published: October 2015

We evaluated the efficacy of fipronil baits in suppressing or eliminating field colonies of Microtermes mycophagus (Desneux) (Blattodea: Termitidae) an important subterranean termite pest in Pakistan. We tested two doses (10 and 30 ppm) of fipronil in toilet paper baits, chosen from laboratory repellency tests. We monitored four colonies for foraging activity for one month before baiting, and mapped foraging territories with termites marked with Nile Blue A and agonistic tests. Before the fipronil baits were installed there were averages of 782–1938 workers and soldiers per bait station in the four colonies. After baiting, the colonies were eliminated as there were no workers per bait station, whereas the control colony had an average of 1142 workers per bait station. The three possibly eliminated colonies consumed around 47 mg of fipronil formulation (4.7 mg active ingredient) in 45–90 days. Our results suggest that baits containing fipronil could provide an economical and feasible alternative for the management of M. mycophagus in structures and buildings in Pakistan.