bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rule Base Home Energy Management System Considering Residential Demand Response Application
Authors: Ahmed Maytham S. , Shareef Hussein , Mohamad Azah , Abd Ali Jamal , Mutlag Ammar Hussein
Published: August 2015

The increasing number of consumer and household appliances causes the rise in home energy use. Therefore, home energy management (HEM) technology is essential to manage and reduce electricity consumption. The objective of this paper is to present an intelligent algorithm for HEM using rule base technique to manage the power consumption with demand response (DR) feature. The scheduling algorithm considers household loads according to the comfort level, customer preference setting and priority of appliance that can be managed at a given time. The algorithm guarantees the total power consumption to be below the electrical demand limit. To exhibit the performance of the proposed HEM, a number of simulations are carried out including DR signal from the network operator. The results show that the algorithm can effectively respond to DR signal, comfort level, customer preference setting and priority of appliance. Furthermore, the algorithm is simple to implement and has flexibility to control the appliances.
One-Hour Ahead Load Forecasting Based on Wavelet Neural Networks
Authors: Sovann Narin , Nallagownden Perumal , Baharudin Zuhairi
Published: August 2015

This paper presents the improvement on accuracy and reliability of the load forecast model. It is well-known that characteristics of a load series is a non-stationary data, which is a constraint for the load forecast methods to achieve accurate and robustness responses. To overcome this limitation, a synergized method between wavelet transform and artificial neural network is proposed for short-term load forecasting. The modeling processes such as minimizing distorted data due to convolution operator of the wavelet transforms, model inputs and neural network design are presented. The proposed method is tested using historical load data of independent system operation New England. The results of the proposed model significantly outperform either accuracy or robustness results over neural network model.
Reference Network Development Concept for the Malaysian Power Distribution System
Authors: bin Ibrahim Khairul Anwar , Au Mau Teng , Gan Chin Kim
Published: August 2015

Distribution system planning involves a set of complex analysis as the amount of data and associated parameters needed for the analysis are huge. Simplified reference network models (or a generic representative network) would help to reduce the amount of data to be handled, and thereby simplify the complexities of analysis. Depending on the parameters used, reference network models could be applied to assess the technical and economic performance of a network, such as, investment consequences against impact of customer end tariff pricing. The inherent idea is to develop a generic reference models that would help to visualize the impact of different planning parameters, such as adequacy, reliability, and quality against cost. These models have the potential capability for flexible usage on fast developing networks. This paper discusses an indigenous conceptual development of a reference network based on the Malaysian distribution system
Design the Balance of System (BOS) for Photovoltaic Application at CERE Building for Low Load Application: An Application of HOMER Pro
Authors: Irwan Y.M. , Amelia A.R. , Syafiqah Z. , Irwanto Muhamad , Farreq M. , Leow W.Z. , Ibrahim S.
Published: August 2015

The reliable renewable energy systems will effective when the optimal output can be achieved. This paper presents a design of the BOS system at the CERE building for low load application. The entire system is being optimized by HOMER Pro software represented the effectiveness system. The HOMER Pro produced the optimal and economic hybrid system configuration. The result indicated the capacity of the PV array is 0.6 kW, 4 units of 1 kWh lead-acid battery and 0.3 kW of inverter was selected to complete the system. The impact of the ambient temperature also has been analysed. The total electrical energy production reduced with considering temperature coefficient. An optimization produced productive configuration over the system lifetime.
Stirling Engine Technology for Parabolic Dish-Stirling System Based on Concentrating Solar Power (CSP)
Authors: Geok Pheng Liaw , Affandi Rosnani , Ab Ghani Mohd Ruddin , Gan Chin Kim , Zanariah Jano
Published: August 2015

Solar energy is one of the more attractive renewable energy sources that can be used as an input energy source for heat engines. In fact, any heat energy sources can be used with the Stirling engine. Stirling engines are mechanical devices working theoretically on the Stirling cycle, or its modifications, in which compressible fluids, such as air, hydrogen, helium, nitrogen or even vapors, are used as working fluids. When comparing with the internal combustion engine, the Stirling engine offers possibility for having high efficiency engine with less exhaust emissions. However, this paper analyzes the basic background of Stirling engine and reviews its existing literature pertaining to dynamic model and control system for parabolic dish-stirling (PD) system.
Influence of Wind Farm Area Dimension on Wakes and Power Production
Authors: Shakoor Rabia , Hassan Mohammad Yusri , Raheem Abdur , Rosmin Norzanah , Nasir Mohamad Na’im Mohd
Published: August 2015

During wind farm planning, the farm layout is generally optimized to minimize the wake losses, and thereby maximize the energy production. However, the scope of layout design itself depends on the specified wind farm land-shape. In this paper, a novel framework is developed to explore how the farm land-shape influences the output potential of a site under a given wind farm area directional orientation or for a set of sample land-shapes with the fixed land area. The full free stream wind speed will be utilized by using definite point selection (DPS) criteria. The DPS is then represented as a function of the wind farm area shape and land orientation. Three types of wind farm land with different dimensions and same areas are considered. The effect of the wake on wind farm power production is calculated. The extracted power is measured for all land shapes. It is concluded that the diamond shaped wind farm is the most suitable, irrespective of regular or irregular layouts of the farm following the square shape.
Sizing Software of a Solar Farm System
Authors: Ab Rahim Nuril Yaqin , Sulaiman Shahril Irwan , Othman Zulkifli
Published: August 2015

This paper presents sizing software for the design of a solar farm system. The sizing software provides few guidelines to the designer for the planning procedure before the final of optimum array configuration is decided. Some specifications that the designer may consider are the type of PV module, the type of inverter, the available space for installation, the required energy per year and also the sum of money to be allocated for the instalment. The output result of this software will be the suggestion of possible configuration of the total number of modules in series per string with the total number of strings in parallel. This software also does the prediction of the system performances such as final yield, specific yield and performance ratio. The expected income is provided by the software is based on the Feed-in Tariff rates and the energy generated by the system.
Optimal Operation Model for Virtual Power Plant in Datong Area
Authors: Wei Hei , Mohamed Idris Rasyidah
Published: August 2015

Datong area has abundant wind energy. Due to problem in large scale of wind power grid connection, this paper introduces virtual power plant concept. As for beginning, power source characteristics of the wind farm, pumped storage power station and the thermal power plant are taken for analysis. Three types of different power plants are chosen to represent the virtual power plant modeling as well as adopting the NSGA2 optimization. As a conclusion, this case study proved that virtual power plant can increase the benefits of each power plant and the wind power plant output power curve become smoother.
Micro-Hydro and Pico-Hydro Potential Assessment for Ungauged Sites in the South China Sea Islands
Authors: Basir Khan Mohammed Reyasudin , Pasupuleti Jagadeesh , Jidin Razali
Published: August 2015

This paper proposes hydropower potential sites for several islands located in the South China Sea. The islands depend mainly on diesel-fuel for electricity generation. As a result, the generating company exposed to diesel high and unpredictable market prices, high operation and maintenance costs, and possible risk of fuel spills. Therefore, reconnaissance studies were conducted through topographic maps and hydrological studies in order to determine the potential sites suitable for development of micro-hydro and pico-hydro generation. The studies conducted for 14 islands in the South China Sea with a total of 51 investigated sites. The result indicates that 24 sites identified to have micro-hydro potential and 22 sites have pico-hydro potential.
Effect of the Architecture and Topology of Cloud Computing on Power Saving
Authors: Rahem Abd Al Razak Tareq , Ismail Mahamod , Najm Ihab Ahmed
Published: August 2015

The use of cloud computing is increasing worldwide because users are now offered with IT utility services that consist of a pool of servers and switches that are fully interconnected. As such, cloud computing consumes huge amounts of power energy, leading to high operational costs and leaving carbon footprints in the environment. Thus, we are promoting the use of Green Cloud computing solutions. In this paper, we investigate how power management affects power saving in cloud computing by analyzing the architecture, topology, average load/server, and scheduling algorithms. We validated our result by using the GreenCloud simulator. Results reveal that changes in architecture, topology, average load/server, and scheduling algorithms have an impact on cloud computing, thus allowing for significant cost savings and indicating the high potential of improving energy efficiency under dynamic workload scenarios.
Clustering Techniques in Load Characteristic Analysis
Authors: Xu Tao , Zhang Shi Yu , Wang Xiao Xue , Li Tian Chu , Lin Jun , Chen Jing Sheng , Zhou Jian Hua
Published: August 2015

Today, load characteristic analysis plays a vital role in network planning, operation and control. In particular, with massive demand side participation activities on the network, the characteristics of individual load determines the way of the active load management as well as the network pricing strategies. In this paper, the load characteristics are analyzed utilizing clustering techniques for a tropical isle with massive temperature sensitive loads. Through deeply mining of real data, the features of individual loads were observed to define the way of load participation.
Performance Analysis of Earth Battery Using Organic Waste Additive
Authors: Ramani Anis Niza , Sarmen Norsharol , Nasir M.N.M. , Intan Azmira W.A.R
Published: August 2015

The usage of chemical battery is very critical nowadays because of their hazardous chemical contains that can cause pollution and need to dispose properly in order to avoid pollution towards the eco-system. Hence, the earth battery is an erstwhile concept designed to generate electricity by using two dissimilar electrodes buried in the ground or immersed in the sea. Although it has been proven to generate electricity, the voltage produced is quite low while the voltage intensity could not be sustained for a long period of time. This paper attempts to explore the potential of using organic wastes as additives in the soil of ground-based earth batteries to improve its performance. Three types of organic wastes were studied; Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME), pineapple waste and lemon waste. Each organic waste is added into separate damped clay soil containers with a ratio of 20:80. Then a copper and an iron electrode are partially buried inside the soil and the electrical properties are measured by connecting a multimeter at the electrodes. The result shows that there is marginal improvement for all three organic wastes in terms of voltage compared to damped clay soil alone. The results also show that the voltage output of these samples could be sustained for seven days.
Development of Low Power Anisotropic Magnetoresistive (AMR) Wireless Magnetometer for Earth’s Magnetic Field Measurement
Authors: Zainal Abidin Ahmad Faizal , Jusoh Mohamad Huzaimy , Al Junid Syed Abdul Mutalib
Published: August 2015

Magnetometer is an instrument to measure Earth’s magnetic field magnitude. Microelectromechanical system (MEMS) magnetic sensor is implemented in the device system since it consists of multi-axis magnetic field sensing driven in a single microchip physical scale at low power consumption. The magnetometer is equipped with built-in data logger system as an automatic data storage system to overcome data loss. The Anisotropic Magnetoresistive (AMR) sensor is the best MEMS magnetometer sensors, since it consumes low power (3.3Vdc), small physical size (less than 8.1mm3) and considerable 200nT resolution for Earth’s magnetic field sensing. The magnetometer consumes 5.0Vdc for complete system operation. The instrument device is useful for scientific and geophysical field to observe and measure geomagnetic field magnitude, where the measurement could be taken anywhere around the globe. The mobile wireless magnetometer was tested and experimental measurement was performed at Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia (coordinate: 3.07°N, 101.50°E).
Load Flow Analysis Using Second-Order Load Flow Methods and its Variations
Authors: Seng Chieng Kai , Tien Tay Lea , Masri Syafrudin
Published: August 2015

The load flow or power flow computer program is the basic tool for investigating the steady-state conditions of power system. This paper introduces improved algorithms based on the basic Second-order Load Flow method for a wide range of electrical bus system sizes. It is attractive for accurate or approximate off- and on-line calculations for routine and contingency purposes. Tests of 4 different variations based on the basic Second-order Load Flow method are run on 6 different standard bus systems and the results are discussed in this paper.
A Cluster Algorithm for Wireless Sensor Networks Based on Energy Efficiency
Authors: Gao Lei , Chen Qun
Published: August 2015

In order to solve the energy limited problem of sensor nodes in the wireless sensor networks (WSN), a fast clustering algorithm based on energy efficiency for wire1ess sensor networks is presented in this paper. In the system initialization phase, the deployment region is divided into several clusters rapidly. The energy consumption ratio and degree of the node are chosen as the selection criterion for the cluster head. Re-election of the cluster head node at this time became a local trigger behavior. Because of the range of the re-election is within the cluster, which greatly reduces the complexity and computational load to re-elect the cluster head node. Theoretical analysis indicates that the timing complexity of the clustering algorithm is O(1), which shows that the algorithm overhead is small and has nothing to do with the network size n. Simulation results show that clustering algorithm based on energy efficiency can provide better load balancing of cluster heads and less protocol overhead. Clustering algorithm based on energy efficiency can reduce energy consumption and prolong the network lifetime compared with LEACH protocol.
Neutral Point Type Buck-Boost Converter Circuit Application for Wireless Energy Transfer
Authors: Ahmad Muhamad Amin , Mustapa Rijalul Fahmi , Rustam Ilham , Haris Mohd Harizan Che Mat , Hidayat Nabil
Published: August 2015

In this paper, a design circuit of neutral point type buck boost has been utilized for wireless transfer energy application. Resonance magnetic field was used as the preferred wireless energy transfer approach due to its ability to generate high efficiency and an increased in distance between the transmitting and receiving coil. The constructed circuit has been found to be able to transmit a DC voltage output to the receiver coil with relatively small ripple voltage output at a limited range of around 15 centimetres.
Short Communication: Antioxidant capacity in the intestinal mucosa of weanling piglets fed diets containingFusariummycotoxins and the efficacy of commercial supplements sold as detoxifiers
Authors: Van Le Thanh Bich , Lessard Martin , Chorfi Younès , Guay Frédéric
Published: August 2015

Le Thanh, B. V., Lessard, M., Chorfi, Y. and Guay, F. 2015. Short Communication: Antioxidant capacity in the intestinal mucosa of weanling piglets fed diets containing Fusarium mycotoxins and the efficacy of commercial supplements sold as detoxifiers. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 569–575. The ability of commercial feed additives to prevent oxidative damage due to deoxynivalenol (DON) in piglets was studied. Sixty piglets (6.0±0.5 kg) were assigned randomly to six wheat–corn–soybean diets: control (<0.5 mg kg−1DON), DON-rich diet (4 mg kg−1DON), and four DON-rich diets supplemented with either glucomannan (DON+GLUC), yeast, live bacteria, enzymes and plant extract (DON+YBP), aluminosilicate (DON+ALS), or a mixture of preservatives (DON+PV). Malondialdehyde concentration (MDA), glutathione peroxidase activity (GPx), catalase activity (CAT) and superoxide dismutase activity (SOD) in the small intestine were measured after 14 d. The DON-rich diet increased MDA in the jejunum while decreasing CAT in the jejunum and SOD in the ileum and increasing GPx in the ileum (P<0.05). The DON+GLUC diet decreased GPx and SOD (P<0.05) and tended to decrease MDA in the jejunum (P<0.10). The DON+YBP, DON+PV and DON+ALS diets all decreased CAT in the jejunum, while DON+YBP and DON+PV also did so in the ileum (P<0.05). DON+GLUC decreased SOD in the jejunum, while DON+YBP increased it (P<0.05). In the ileum, DON+PV decreased SOD, while DON+ALS increased GPx (P<0.05). No significant differences in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in intestinal tissues were found. This study demonstrates that the mycotoxin DON and anti-mycotoxin additives modify oxidative status, including the antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT, SOD or GPx) in the intestinal mucosa of piglets. However, it was not possible to identify a specific antioxidant enzyme involved in counteracting the effect of DON.
Spontaneous sister chromatid exchange in mitotic chromosomes of the chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)
Authors: Kuchta-Gładysz Marta , Wójcik Ewa , Szeleszczuk Olga , Niedbała Piotr , Tyblewska Kaja
Published: August 2015

Kuchta-Gładysz, M., Wójcik, E., Szeleszczuk, O., Niedbała, P. and Tyblewska, K. 2015. Spontaneous sister chromatid exchange in mitotic chromosomes of the chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera). Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 543–550. The sister chromatid exchange (SCE) test is a cytogenetic tool with applications as a short-term screen. It is used to assess the influence of physical and chemical factors with potential mutagenic and genotoxic properties on the animal organism. The test results make it possible to eliminate mutagens, as well as helping to predict possible genetic consequences in animal cells and assess animal resistance. The mitotic chromosomes were obtained from an in vitro culture of peripheral blood lymphocytes with added bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU), at five different concentrations: 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 µg mL−1. The chromosomes were stained according to the FPG method. Our analyses revealed the spontaneous SCE level in the chinchilla at the concentration of 0.5 µg mL−1. Higher concentrations of this substance have a genotoxic effect and cause damage to the DNA structure of the chromosomes by inducing additional SCEs in the chromosomes of this species. The mean SCE/cell incidence in the chinchilla population was 4.34±1.28. We investigated the effects of age on the incidence of SCE and found it significantly affected this phenomenon in both sexes.
Land use history determines non-native earthworm impacts on atmospheric methane consumption in forest soils, central New York State
Authors: Yavitt Joseph B.
Published: August 2015

Yavitt, J. B. 2015. Land use history determines non-native earthworm impacts on atmospheric methane consumption in forest soils, central New York State. Can. J. Soil Sci. 95: 321–330. I used complementary field and laboratory studies to examine the impact of two types of soil disturbance on net consumption of atmospheric methane (CH4) in forest soils near Ithaca, New York. One type of disturbance is invasion of non-native earthworms that mix soil layers, and the other is agriculture, which reduces the pit-and-mound surface topography to a flat landscape. Measurements of CH4fluxes between soil and the atmosphere were made in autumn before seasonal leaf fall when earthworms had consumed all of the previous year's leaf fall, and revealed no impact by earthworms in the never-tilled soils. Although earthworms did lead to greater consumption of atmospheric CH4in the post-agriculture soils, the mean consumption rate was only −0.2 mg m2d−1. Concentrations of atmospheric CH4in wormed soils were often greater than that in the atmosphere, suggesting that earthworms promote CH4production. In general, earthworms decreased soil permeability to gas diffusion. Post-agriculture soils also had faster CH4oxidation rates when incubated in the laboratory. The results taken together suggest that earthworm impacts on atmospheric CH4consumption depend on the history of soil disturbance.
Nitrogen mineralization in beef- and pig-manure-amended soils measured using anion resin method
Authors: Ige D. V. , Sayem S. M. , Akinremi O. O.
Published: August 2015

Ige, D. V., Sayem, S. M. and Akinremi, O. O. 2015. Nitrogen mineralization in beef- and pig-manure-amended soils measured using anion resin method. Can. J. Soil Sci. 95: 305–319. A major challenge facing the widespread use of manure is the uncertainty about its fertilizer equivalence. This study was carried out to determine the fertilizer equivalence of locally available manures in two soils in Manitoba. A randomized complete block design was adopted with six treatments [nitrogen fertilizer, a liquid swine manure (LSM), three solid beef manures (SBM) and a control] and four replicates. Each treatment was applied to a cylindrical soil column installed at the site at the rate of 100 kg ha−1of “available N”, and leached NO3-N was captured by resin bags at the bottom of the cylinder. The soils and resin bags removed from the cylinders were sampled at 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 14, and 18 wk following treatment application. Ammonium nitrogen in the amendments was nitrified within the first 2 to 3 wk with significant build-up of NO3-N in the soil above the control (P<0.05). The greatest available N was in the fertilizer treatment, followed by the LSM and the smallest was in the SBM. The available N in the three SBM was statistically similar (P>0.05). Approximately 50% of the inorganic N in LSM was available during the growing season, while 68 to 100% of SBM inorganic N was available. Between 4 and 25% of the organic N in the three SBM was mineralized during the growing season. High soil moisture hindered N mineralization and enhanced N loss in the clay soil. LSM has the greatest fertilizer equivalence, with a mean of 65 to 68%, of the four manure types used. The fertilizer equivalence of the three SBM ranged between 42 and 59% and was influenced by the manure C:N ratio and the soil environmental conditions. Our study suggests the need to revise the assumptions regarding manure N availability by considering soil environmental factors in the estimation of available N.
On some linear parabolic PDEs on moving hypersurfaces
Authors: Alphonse Amal , Elliott Charles M. , Stinner Björn
Published: August 2015

We consider existence and uniqueness for several examples of linear parabolic equations formulated on moving hypersurfaces. Specifically, we study in turn a surface heat equation, an equation posed on a bulk domain, a novel coupled bulk-surface system and an equation with a dynamic boundary condition. In order to prove the well-posedness, we make use of an abstract framework presented in a recent work by the authors which dealt with the formulation and well-posedness of linear parabolic equations on arbitrary evolving Hilbert spaces. Here, after recalling all of the necessary concepts and theorems, we show that the abstract framework can applied to the case of evolving (or moving) hypersurfaces, and then we demonstrate the utility of the framework to the aforementioned problems.
The mesa problem for the fractional porous medium equation
Authors: Vázquez Juan Luis
Published: August 2015

We investigate the behaviour of the solutions

u_m(x,t)

of the fractional porous medium equation

u_t+(-\Delta)^s (u^m)=0, \quad x\in \mathbb R^N, \ t>0

with initial data

u(x,0)\ge 0

,

x\in \mathbb R^N

, in the limit

m\to\infty

with fixed

s\in (0,1)

. We first identify the limit

F_\infty

of the Barenblatt solutions

U_m(x,t)

\normalcolor as the solution of a stationary fractional obstacle problem, and we observe that, contrary to the case

s=1

, the limit is not compactly supported but exhibits a typical fractional tail with power-like decay. In other words, we do not get a plain mesa in the limit, but a mesa with a tail. This is not the whole story since the limit of

V_m(x,t)= mt\, U_m^m(x,t)

exists and is compactly supported (in

x

). We then study the limit

m\to\infty

for a wide class of solutions with nonnegative initial data, and show also in this setting the phenomenon of initial discontinuity, whereby the solution does not take on the prescribed initial data. Finally, we derive counterexamples to expected propagation and comparison properties based on symmetrization and pose a related open problem.
Basic Income
Authors: Davala Sarath , Jhabvala Renana , Mehta Soumya Kapoor , Standing Guy
Published: August 2015

Would it be possible to provide people with a basic income as a right? The idea has a long history. This book draws on two pilot schemes conducted in the Indian State of Madhya Pradesh, in which thousands of men, women and children were provided with an unconditional monthly cash payment. In a context in which the Indian government at national and state levels spends a vast amount on subsidies and selective schemes that are chronically expensive, inefficient, inequitable and subject to extensive corruption, there is scope for switching at least some of the spending to a modest basic income. This book explores what would be likely to happen if this were done.

The book draws on a series of evaluation surveys conducted over the course of the eighteen months in which the main pilot was in operation, supplemented with detailed case studies of individuals and families. It looks at the impact on health and nutrition, on schooling, on economic activity, women’s agency and the welfare of those with disabilities.

Above all, the book considers whether or not a basic income could be transformative, in not only improving individual and family welfare but in promoting economic growth and development, as well as having an emancipatory effect for people long mired in conditions of poverty and economic insecurity.
Food and Health in Early Modern Europe
Authors: Gentilcore David
Published: August 2015

Food and Health in Early Modern Europe is both a history of food practices and a history of the medical discourse about that food. It is also an exploration of the interaction between the two: the relationship between evolving foodways and shifting medical advice on what to eat in order to stay healthy. It provides the first in-depth study of printed dietary advice covering the entire early modern period, from the late-15th century to the early-19th; it is also the first to trace the history of European foodways as seen through the prism of this advice.

David Gentilcore offers a doctor’s-eye view of changing food and dietary fashions: from Portugal to Poland, from Scotland to Sicily, not forgetting the expanding European populations of the New World. In addition to exploring European regimens throughout the period, works of materia medica, botany, agronomy and horticulture are considered, as well as a range of other printed sources, such as travel accounts, cookery books and literary works. The book also includes 30 illustrations, maps and extensive chapter bibliographies with web links included to further aid study.

Food and Health in Early Modern Europe is the essential introduction to the relationship between food, health and medicine for history students and scholars alike.
NOx emission estimates during the 2014 Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing
Authors: Ding J. , van der A R. J. , Mijling B. , Levelt P. F. , Hao N.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. The Nanjing Government applied temporary environmental regulations to guarantee good air quality during the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in 2014. We study the effect of those regulations by applying the emission estimate algorithm DECSO (Daily Emission estimates Constrained by Satellite Observations) to measurements of the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI). We improved DECSO by updating the chemical transport model CHIMERE from v2006 to v2013 and by adding an Observation minus Forecast (OmF) criterion to filter outlying satellite retrievals due to high aerosol concentrations. The comparison of model results with both ground and satellite observations indicates that CHIMERE v2013 is better performing than CHIMERE v2006. After filtering the satellite observations with high aerosol loads that were leading to large OmF values, unrealistic jumps in the emission estimates are removed. Despite the cloudy conditions during the YOG we could still see a decrease of tropospheric NO2 column concentrations of about 32 % in the OMI observations when compared to the average NO2 columns from 2005 to 2012. The results of the improved DECSO algorithm for NOx emissions show a reduction of at least 25 % during the YOG period and afterwards. This indicates that air quality regulations taken by the local government have an effect in reducing NOx emissions. The algorithm is also able to detect an emission reduction of 10 % during the Chinese Spring Festival. This study demonstrates the capacity of the DECSO algorithm to capture the change of NOx emissions on a monthly scale. We also show that the observed NO2 columns and the derived emissions show different patterns that provide complimentary information. For example, the Nanjing smog episode in December 2013 led to a strong increase in NO2 concentrations without an increase in NOx emissions. Furthermore, DECSO gives us important information on the non-trivial seasonal relation between NOx emissions and NO2 concentrations on a local scale.
The simple two-dimensional parameterisation for Flux Footprint Predictions FFP
Authors: Kljun N. , Calanca P. , Rotach M. W. , Schmid H. P.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Flux footprint models are often used for interpretation of flux tower measurements, to estimate position and size of surface source areas, and the relative contribution of passive scalar sources to measured fluxes. Accurate knowledge of footprints is of crucial importance for any upscaling exercises from single site flux measurements to ecosystem or regional scale. Hence, footprint models are ultimately also of considerable importance for improved greenhouse gas budgeting. With increasing numbers of flux towers within large monitoring networks such as FLUXNET, ICOS, NEON, or AMERIFLUX, and with increasing temporal range of observations from such towers (order of decades) and availability of airborne flux measurements, there has been an increasing demand for reliable footprint estimation. Even though several sophisticated footprint models have been developed in recent years, most are still not suitable for application to long time series, due to their high computational demands. Existing fast footprint models, on the other hand, are based on Surface Layer theory and hence are of restricted validity for real case applications. To remedy such shortcomings, we present the two-dimensional Flux Footprint Parameterisation, FFP, based on a novel scaling approach for the crosswind distribution of the flux footprint and on an improved version of the footprint parameterisation of Kljun et al. (2004b). Compared to the latter, FFP now provides not only the extent, but also the width and shape of footprint estimates, and explicit consideration of the effects of the surface roughness length. The footprint parameterisation has been developed and evaluated using simulations of the backward Lagrangian stochastic particle dispersion model LPDM-B (Kljun et al., 2002). Like LPDM-B, the parameterisation is valid for a broad range of boundary layer conditions and measurement heights over the entire planetary boundary layer. Thus it can provide footprint estimates for a wide range of real case applications. The new footprint parameterisation requires inputs that can be easily determined from, for example, flux tower measurements or airborne flux data. FFP can be applied to data of long-term monitoring programmes as well as be used for quick footprint estimates in the field, or for designing new sites.
A combined quality-control methodology in Ebro Delta (NE Spain) high frequency radar system
Authors: Lorente P. , Piedracoba S. , Soto-Navarro J. , Alvarez-Fanjul E.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Ebro River Delta is a relevant marine protected area in the western Mediterranean. In order to promote the conservation of its ecosystem and support operational decision making in this sensitive area, a three site standard-range (13.5 MHz) CODAR SeaSonde High Frequency (HF) radar was deployed in 2013. Since there is a growing demand for reliable HF radar surface current measurements, the main goal of this work is to present a combined quality control methodology. Firstly, one year-long (2014) real-time web monitoring of nonvelocity-based diagnostic parameters is conducted in order to infer both radar site status and HF radar system performance. Signal-to-noise ratio at the monopole exhibited a consistent monthly evolution although some abrupt decreases (below 10 dB), occasionally detected in June for one of the radar sites, impacted negatively on the spatiotemporal coverage of total current vectors. It seemed to be a sporadic episode since radar site overall performance was found to be robust during 2014. Secondly, a validation of HF radar data with independent in situ observations from a moored current meter was attempted for May–October 2014. The accuracy assessment of radial and total vectors revealed a consistently high agreement. The directional accuracy of the HF radar was rated at better than 8°. The correlation coefficient and RMSE values emerged in the ranges 0.58–0.83 and 4.02–18.31 cm s−1, respectively. The analysis of the monthly averaged current maps for 2014 showed that the HF radar properly represented basic oceanographic features previously reported, namely: the predominant southwestward flow, the coastal clockwise eddy confined south of Ebro Delta mouth or the Ebro River impulsive-type freshwater discharge. Future works should include the use of verified HF radar data for the rigorous skill assessment of operational ocean circulation systems currently running in Ebro estuarine region like MyOcean IBI.
Ups and downs in mood and energy: Associations with academic outcomes in higher education
Authors: Bullock Ben
Published: August 2015

Individual differences in mood and energy may affect academic outcomes in higher education. With little previous research investigating this relationship it is not known whether mood and energy traits help or hinder academic performance. The current study addresses this gap in the literature by investigating ups (high mood and energy) and downs (low mood and energy) in a small sample of University students in their first year of a psychology degree. The results suggest that low mood and energy traits may be detrimental to academic performance. High mood and energy traits however, were not associated with academic performance. Implications of the findings, in particular those regarding low mood and energy, are that, unlike the trait itself, the behaviours associated with the trait (e.g., procrastination, distraction, low motivation) are amenable to change through psychological interventions. Several of these interventions are discussed.
Inquiry-based learning to improve student engagement in a large first year topic
Authors: Smallhorn Masha , Young Jeanne , Hunter Narelle , Burke da Silva Karen
Published: August 2015

Increasing the opportunity for students to be involved in inquiry-based activities can improve engagement with content and assist in the development of analysis and critical thinking skills. The science laboratory has traditionally been used as a platform to apply the content gained through the lecture series. These activities have exposed students to experiments which test the concepts taught but which often result in a predicted outcome. To improve the engagement and learning outcomes of our large first year biology cohort, the laboratories were redeveloped. Superlabs were run with 100 students attending weekly sessions increasing the amount of contact time from previous years. Laboratories were redeveloped into guided-inquiry and educators facilitated teams of students to design and carry out an experiment. To analyse the impact of the redevelopment on student satisfaction and learning outcomes, students were surveyed and multiple choice exam data was compared before and after the redevelopment. Results suggest high levels of student satisfaction and a significant improvement in student learning outcomes. All disciplines should consider including inquiry-based activities as a methodology to improve student engagement and learning outcome as it fosters the development of independent learners.
Putting transition at the centre of whole-of-curriculum transformation
Authors: O'Donnell Marcus , Wallace Margaret , Melano Anne , Lawson Romy , Leinonen Eeva
Published: August 2015

This paper describes the development of a model for institution-wide curriculum transformation at the University of Wollongong (UOW). Transition – a curriculum-integrated approach that enables a smooth, supported shift into and through higher education and a successful transition from the university to the world of work and lifelong learning – is one of three key principles at the heart of the UOW Curriculum Model. This paper focuses on transition as a whole-of-curriculum design principle and the way this principle informs the other elements of the UOW Curriculum Model. It aims to extend the concept of “transition pedagogy” developed by Kift and colleagues  and to show how it has been used to inform our larger project of curriculum renewal.
Students, Transitions, Achievement, Retention, Success: STARS Invited Panel
Authors: Nelson Karen , Clarke John
Published: August 2015

The Invited Panel Session at the inaugural STARS Conference concluded the formal presentations for the event.  At this session, invited STARS from the tertiary sector shared with delegates their personal thoughts concerning the messages and insights gained from the conference experience. The Panel Session also provided delegates with the opportunity to respond and share their views in order to consolidate learnings. Delegates were challenged to give thought to their intended activities and actions in their own settings based on their experiences at the conference.  For the purposes of this feature, the editors have summarised and edited the transcript to present the key points of each discussion, including questions and comments from delegates. Panel members have approved the authors’ interpretations of their comments.
Community tourism and its role among agropastoralists in Laikipia County, Kenya
Authors: Owuor George , Knerr Beatrice , Ochieng Justus , Wambua Tom , Magero Chris
Published: August 2015

The authors present survey findings from agropastoral households living near tourist attraction sites and undertake agropastoral activities, conservation, and community tourism enterprises in Laikipia, Kenya. Laikipia is a major wildlife migration route, popular with private conservancies and ranches, attracting large numbers of tourists. The authors explore the key determinants of participation in community tourism and find that communication and road infrastructure, membership of community groups, and security aspects influence household participation in community tourism. Policies aiming to improve infrastructure and security and to encourage the formation of investment groups would enhance participation in community tourism activities and raise household incomes.
Addressing physician quality of life: understanding the relationship between burnout, work engagement, compassion fatigue and satisfaction
Authors: Chan Angelina OM , Chan Yiong Huak , Chuang Kee Puay , Ng Joyce SC , Neo Patricia SH
Published: August 2015

Burnout and compassion fatigue are now recognized as occupational hazards associated with the medical profession. Interestingly, burnout and compassion fatigue do not occur in every physician and many continue to find joy, meaning and satisfaction in their work despite its challenges and stressors. Our study looked at the relationship between burnout, work engagement, compassion fatigue and satisfaction amongst doctors. We also studied the relationship between these and four measureable intrinsic human factors; self-efficacy, resilient personality type, sense of gratitude and work calling. Our study found that 37% of the doctors were at high risk of burnout and 7.5% were at high risk of compassion fatigue and only 3.3% and 1.5% were at low risk of burnout and compassion fatigue respectively. Only 2.7% and 0.3% had high rates of work engagement and compassion satisfaction respectively. There was a mild but significant negative correlation between burnout and engagement, and a poor negative correlation between compassion fatigue and satisfaction. Only intrinsic human factors were significantly correlated to burnout, work engagement, compassion fatigue and satisfaction. Our preliminary findings suggest that certain intrinsic factors increase work engagement and compassion satisfaction amongst doctors. As some of these intrinsic factors also appear to buffer against burnout and compassion fatigue, increasing work engagement and compassion satisfaction not only builds individual resilience against burnout and compassion fatigue but may also lead to improvement in overall health, professional quality of life and career longevity for doctors.
Correlation Between Mothers’ Depression and Developmental Delay in Infants Aged 6-18 Months
Authors: Vameghi Roshanak , Amir Aliakbari Sedigheh , Sajjad Homeira , Sajedi Firoozeh , Alavimajd Hamid
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND: Regarding the importance of children’s developmental status and various factors that delay their development, this study was conducted to examine the correlation between mothers’ depression levels and the developmental delay in infants.

METHODS: This descriptive study was performed on 1053 mothers and their infants’ age 6 to18 month-old in medical centers affiliated with Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Iran, in 2014-2015. The participants were selected through multi-stage random sampling. The following instruments were used in this study: A demographic and obstetric specification questionnaire, infant specification questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Ages and Stages Questionnaire to determine the status of the children’s development. The data were analyzed using SPSS19 software, Mann-Whitney; independent T-test and logistic-Regression tests were used.

RESULTS: The results showed that 491 mothers (46.7%) suffered mild to extremely severe depression. The delay in infant development was 11.8%. The Mann–Whitney test showed a correlation between mothers’ depression levels and developmental delay in infants (P=0.001). Moreover, there was a significant correlation between mothers’ depression and developmental delays in gross-motor and problem-solving skills (P<0/05). In logistic model age of infants showed significant correlation with developmental delay (P=0.004 OR=1.07), but unwanted pregnancy, gender of infants, type of delivery and socioeconomic status had no correlation with developmental delay.

CONCLUSION: Given the correlation between mothers’ depression and infant development, it is recommended to screen mothers for depression in order to perform early interventions in developmental delay.
Pedestrian Road-Crossing Behaviours: A Protocol for an Explanatory Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Hashemiparast Mina , Montazeri Ali , Nedjat Saharnaz , Negarandeh Reza , Sadeghi Roya , Hosseini Masoumeh , Garmaroudi Gholamreza
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND: Pedestrian crossing is an important traffic safety concern. The aim of this paper is to report the protocol for a sequential explanatory mixed methods study that set out to determine the pedestrians’ traffic behaviors, the associated factors and exploring the perception of young people about the traffic risky behaviors in crossing the road. The ultimate purpose of the study is to design a preventive and cultural based strategy to promote young people’s health.

METHODS: This is a sequential explanatory mixed methods design. The study has two sequential phases. During the first phase, a population-based cross-sectional survey of a sample of young people will be conducted using the proportional random multistage cluster sampling method, in Tehran, Iran. Data will be collected by a questionnaire including items on socio-demographic information, items on measuring social conformity tendency, and questions on subjective norms, attitudes, and perceived behavioral control based on the Theory of Planned behavior. In the second phase, a qualitative study will be conducted. A purposeful sampling strategy will be used and participants who can help to explain the quantitative findings will be selected. Data collection in qualitative phase will be predominately by individual in-depth interviews. A qualitative content analysis approach will be undertaken to develop a detailed understanding of the traffic risky behaviors among young pedestrians.

CONCLUSION: The findings of this explanatory mixed methods study will provide information on traffic risky behaviors in young pedestrians. The findings will be implemented to design a cultural based strategy and intervention programs.
Evaluation of Complications of Heart Surgery in Children With Congenital Heart Disease at Dena Hospital of Shiraz
Authors: Mirzaei Maryam , Mirzaei Samaneh , Sepahvand Elham , Koshkaki Afifeh Rahmanian , Kargar Jahromi Marzieh
Published: August 2015

INTRODUCTION: Today, with progress in the field of congenital heart surgery, different complicated actions are done in children. These actions may be associated with several complications, especially open heart surgery in which the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is used. Serious complications can be caused high morbidity and mortality rates. Present study has been performed to determine the incidence of morbidity and mortality in cardiac surgery in children.

METHOD: In a cross-sectional retrospective, records of 203 patients undergoing surgery for congenital heart disease in Dena hospital during 2013-2015 were reviewed for incidence of complications. Data was analyzed by using descriptive and analytical statistics and using SPSS version 18.

RESULTS: The mean age of samples was 3/65±4/47 years. The majority of samples (73/8%) were undergoing open surgery. The overall adverse cardiovascular complications were respectively, renal complications (44/3%), lung (40/3%), anemia (35/9%), heart (34/4%), gastrointestinal (17/2%), brain (14/2%), need for re-intubation of the trachea 11/3%), infection (7/8%) required reoperation (5/9%) and vascular complications (1/4%).

CONCLUSION: High incidence of complications after congenital heart surgery makes necessary attention to complications and their treatment after surgery. It is necessary to apply the measures and careful monitoring of patients to minimize these effects.