bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flipping the Classroom to Improve Student Performance and Satisfaction
Authors: Missildine Kathy , Fountain Rebecca , Summers Lynn , Gosselin Kevin
Published: June 2014

This study aimed to determine the effects of a flipped classroom (i.e., reversal of time allotment for lecture and homework) and innovative learning activities on academic success and the satisfaction of nursing students. A quasi-experimental design was used to compare three approaches to learning: traditional lecture only (LO), lecture and lecture capture back-up (LLC), and the flipped classroom approach of lecture capture with innovative classroom activities (LCI). Examination scores were higher for the flipped classroom LCI group (
M
= 81.89,
SD
= 5.02) than for both the LLC group (
M
= 80.70,
SD
= 4.25),
p
= 0.003, and the LO group (
M
= 79.79,
SD
= 4.51),
p
< 0.001. Students were less satisfied with the flipped classroom method than with either of the other methods (
p
< 0.001). Blending new teaching technologies with interactive classroom activities can result in improved learning but not necessarily improved student satisfaction. [
J Nurs Educ
. 2013;52(10):597–599.]
Using a Kinesthetic Learning Strategy to Engage Nursing Student Thinking, Enhance Retention, and Improve Critical Thinking
Authors: Wagner Elissa A.
Published: June 2014

This article reports the outcomes of a kinesthetic learning strategy used during a cardiac lecture to engage students and to improve the use of classroom-acquired knowledge in today’s challenging clinical settings. Nurse educators are constantly faced with finding new ways to engage students, stimulate critical thinking, and improve clinical application in a rapidly changing and complex health care system. Educators who deviate from the traditional pedagogy of didactic, content-driven teaching to a concept-based, student-centered approach using active and kinesthetic learning activities can enhance engagement and improve clinical problem solving, communication skills, and critical thinking to provide graduates with the tools necessary to be successful. The goals of this learning activity were to decrease the well-known classroom–clinical gap by enhancing engagement, providing deeper understanding of cardiac function and disorders, enhancing critical thinking, and improving clinical application. [
J Nurs Educ
. 2014;53(6):348–351.]
Topography-guided Photorefractive Keratectomy for Irregular Astigmatism After Small Incision Lenticule Extraction
Authors: Ivarsen Anders , Hjortdal Jesper Ø.
Published: June 2014

PURPOSE:

To report the outcome of topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) after complicated small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE).

METHODS:

Retrospective case series of 5 eyes with irregular topography and ghost images after complicated SMILE. All eyes received transepithelial topography-guided PRK. Two eyes were treated with 0.02% mitomycin C. Patients were examined after a minimum of 3 months with evaluation of uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuity, Pentacam tomography (Oculus Optikgeräte, Wetzlar, Germany), and whole-eye aberrometry.

RESULTS:

In 3 eyes, subjective symptoms were diminished and UDVA, CDVA, topography, and corneal wavefront aberrations were improved. The remaining 2 eyes developed significant haze with worsened topography and wavefront aberrations. One eye experienced a two-line reduction in CDVA. Eyes with haze development had not been treated with mitomycin C.

CONCLUSIONS:

Transepithelial topography-guided PRK may reduce visual symptoms after complicated SMILE if postoperative haze can be controlled. To reduce the risk of haze development, application of mitomycin C may be considered.

[
J Refract Surg.
2014;30(6):429–432.]
The Effect of Web 2.0 Usage in E-Service Quality in Hospitality
Authors: Andrlic Berislav , Ariwa Ezendu
Published: June 2014

This chapter explores the usage of Web 2.0 technologies in determining the level of quality of Websites in the Croatian hotel industry. Namely, in order to determine the level of quality, it is necessary to identify the characteristics of Websites qualitatively and quantitatively. From the data obtained, it is possible to determine the degree of information compliance with the wishes and needs of potential clients. As the basis of primary research, the authors use the original model evaluation on a selected sample of hotels in Croatia.
Teaching Accounting and Management through Business Simulation
Authors: Silva Paulino L. , Santos J. Freitas , Vieira Isabel
Published: June 2014

Everyday accounting and management teachers face the challenge of creating learning environments that motivate students. This chapter describes the Business Simulation (BS) experience that has taken place at the Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Institute of Accounting and Administration (IPP/ISCAP). The chapter presents students' perceptions about the course and the teaching/learning approach. The results show that pedagogical methods used (competency-oriented), generic competencies (cooperation and group work), and interpersonal skills (organisational and communication skills) are relevant for future accounting professionals. In addition, positive remarks and possible constraints based on observation, staff meetings, and past research are reported. The chapter concludes with some recommendations from the project implementation.
Microfinance Banks and their Impact on Small and Medium Scale Industries for Economic Growth
Authors: Suleiman Mustapha Shitu
Published: June 2014

The contribution of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) has been recognized as the main sustenance of an economy because of their capacity in enhancing economic growth and development. SMEs have been lacking access to relatively cheap and effective source of finance, which has been identified as the major factor hindering their contribution to economic growth; however, the advent of microfinance banks has brought a great relief to the sector through their sound, effective, and efficient micro-financing credit facilities. This chapter is survey-based, using primary source to gather data through questionnaire, while the chi-square was used to test the formulated hypotheses. The research found that MFBs have a positive impact on SMEs, which led to economic growth through business expansion and employment creation. The research recommends that there is need to sustain the developmental polices introduced by the government such as the SURE-P programme. In addition, government and multinational companies need to provide basic infrastructure and other alternatives for accessing funds by the SMEs to ensure sustainability of start-up businesses.
Sustainable Shipping to Meet the Needs of Small Island Developing States
Authors: Teeter Jennifer
Published: June 2014

The main objective of the current global shipping system is based on the container ship model emphasizing speed and efficiency. While enabling convenience for those with access to this hub-and-spoke system, this model is effectively wreaking havoc on the global environment while leaving a world of people out of shipping networks. One solution is indigenous knowledge-based, small-scaled, durable, affordable, energy-efficient, renewable-energy powered wind ships built to fit the needs, means, and context of the communities that use them. The incorporation of indigenous knowledge is a key factor that significantly contributes to the efficiency, effectiveness, and development process by empowering communities to take the lead in developing sustainable programs, rather than imposing. This chapter documents the past, present, and future contributions of the wind-shipping sector, then specifically turns to the Greenheart Project. Greenheart Project aims to create a network of vessels powered by solar and wind technologies for transportation purposes, while developing a means for further regional and international cooperation, sustainability, and ethical business that prioritizes the unique and differing needs of communities. This chapter evaluates the Greenheart Project model of small-scaled cargo, measuring its tangible benefits and discussing potential applications in the South Pacific for regional trade and transport networks.
Green Data Center
Authors: Pranggono Bernardi , Tianfield Huaglory
Published: June 2014

The presence of computing in our society is enormous, and the trend continues. While organizations around the world rely more and more indispensably on their data centers to protect their fast growing data and information, the energy consumption of data center is becoming a key environmental, social, and political issue. Therefore, it is very important to minimize the energy usage by data centers. Green data centers refer to energy-aware data center design rationale of minimized carbon footprint. Virtualization has become a revolutionizing technology for systematic design and deployment of green data centers. This chapter presents a comprehensive study of green data centers. First, the concept and basic systems configuration of energy-efficient data centers are introduced. Then, an elaborative collection of greenness metrics are discussed for profiling the energy issues of green data centers. Next, the state-of-the-art energy-aware techniques are presented for the design and deployment of green data centers. Finally, the challenges and the future directions are pointed out.
The Contribution of Teleworking towards a Green Computing Environment
Authors: Egbuta Iheanyi Chuku , Thomas Brychan , Al-Hasan Said
Published: June 2014

The aims of the chapter are to consider the strategic green issues of teleworking in terms of the environment, transport, location, office space, and resource use for modern organisations and business sectors and to formulate a conceptual model of the processes involved. In fact, teleworking technologies are variously implemented for green computing initiatives, and the many advantages include lower greenhouse gas emissions related to travel, greater worker satisfaction, and as a result of lower overhead office costs, increased profit margins. The chapter initially investigates the appropriateness of a working definition of teleworking with regard to green computing, and following this, explores the benefits and barriers of teleworking in a green computing environment. The theoretical frameworks and models of teleworking are then considered, and a conceptual model of the contribution of teleworking to green computing is formulated. It is the intention of the chapter to identify and articulate those teleworking concepts that will be useful to academicians, scientists, business entrepreneurs, practitioners, managers, and policy makers, and to indicate future research directions for research scholars and students with similar interests.
Financial Sustainability of the Private-Public Partnership Projects
Authors: Devčić Anton , Šostar Marko , Babić Sanja
Published: June 2014

The Private-Public Partnership (PPP) is still a new model of financing of public needs in Croatia. Namely, regardless of the attitude of the relevant decision maker on national and local levels that this has to be widely used model of financing, there are still only a few PPP projects conducted in Croatia. There are several reasons for that, like administrative barriers, wrong perception of PPP as a model of financing, insufficient information, etc. In fact, in most cases, the PPP stay as an idea, because the intention of using this model of financing is more declarative than a real feasible idea. This chapter presents some actual figures of PPP in Croatia, based on recent research, available data and literature, and consequently, this chapter provides grounds for future research in this area.
Simulation of Knowledge Intensive Processes
Authors: Majewski Grzegorz , Usoro Abel , Su Peiran
Published: June 2014

This chapter presents a literature review and theoretical investigation combining the areas of Business Process Simulation (BPS) and Knowledge Management (KM). In the beginning, it describes the concept of knowledge economy – the environment in which most modern organizations have to operate. Knowledge economy supports the concept of green technology because knowledge-intensive services aim at decreasing the use of natural resources, reducing the generation of waste as well as lowering the carbon footprint. This chapter defines knowledge intensity and Knowledge Intensive Processes (KIPs). It then investigates the relationship between KM (the discipline dealing with KIP) and BPS. It is expected that both KM and BPS can aid green technology by employing relevant techniques, which can introduce the new, more efficient technology, reduce the usage of natural resources, as well as lower the carbon footprint. This chapter presents the differences between Conventional Business Processes (CBP) and KIPs. After that, it describes problems that KIPs can pose to BPS. In the next step, it explores the opportunities and challenges of simulating KIPs. At this point, a conceptual model that embraces both KIP and BPS is proposed. Potential future research directions are discussed and in the end conclusions are drawn based on the discussions of the chapter.
Neuroprosthetics
Authors: Naik Ganesh R.
Published: June 2014

Neuroprostheses use electric stimuli to stimulate neural structures, muscles, or receptors in order to support, augment, or partly restore the respective disordered or lost function. The objective is to help the patient to participate in everyday life. The use of a neural prosthesis can improve the quality of life of the person concerned. The future of neuroprosthetics is challenging as well as interesting as it deals with several latest technological advancements that connect both biology and technology together. This chapter briefly explains the current advancements and future challenges related to Neuroprosthetics research.
Models of Cooperation between Medical Specialists and Biomedical Engineers in Neuroprosthetics
Authors: Mikołajewska Emilia , Mikołajewski Dariusz
Published: June 2014

The development of novel technologies associated with neuroprosthetics and their clinical applications needs interdisciplinary knowledge, including not only medical sciences, but IT, biomedical engineering, biocybernetics, and robotics. The variability of possible neurological deficits, interventions, and even scales—from nanotechnology up to rehabilitation robots and brain-computer-interface controlled exoskeletons as whole-body neuroprostheses—makes this task very difficult. Current models of education and cooperation within interdisciplinary therapeutic teams only concern medical specialists. This chapter tries to answer the question, how can biomedical engineers be incorporated into research and clinical practice in neuroprosthetics considering the various aforementioned factors, necessary changes in educational processes, ethical issues, and associated organizational problems?
Brain-Computer Interfaces for Assessment and Communication in Disorders of Consciousness
Authors: Guger Christoph , Sorger Bettina , Noirhomme Quentin , Naci Lorina , Monti Martin M. , Real Ruben , Pokorny Christoph , Veser Sandra , Lugo Zulay , Quitadamo Lucia , Lesenfants Damien , Risetti Monica , Formisano Rita , Toppi Jlenia , Astolfi Laura , Emmerling Thomas , Heine Lizette , Erlbeck Helena , Horki Petar , Kotchoubey Boris , Bianchi Luigi , Mattia Donatella , Goebel Rainer , Owen Adrian M. , Pellas Frederic , Müller-Putz Gernot , Laureys Steven , Kübler Andrea , Cincotti Febo
Published: June 2014

Many patients with Disorders of Consciousness (DOC) are misdiagnosed for a variety of reasons. These patients typically cannot communicate. Because such patients are not provided with the needed tools, one of their basic human needs remains unsatisfied, leaving them truly locked in to their bodies. This chapter first reviews current methods and problems of diagnoses and assistive technology for communication, supporting the view that advances in both respects are needed for patients with DOC. The authors also discuss possible solutions to these problems and introduce emerging developments based on EEG (Electroencephalography), fMRI (Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and fNIRS (Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy) that have been validated with patients and healthy volunteers.
Assistive Technology for Cognition
Authors: Best Catherine , O'Neill Brian , Gillespie Alex
Published: June 2014

Assistive Technology for Cognition (ATC) is the use of technology to extend human mental capacity. The present chapter reviews the use of assistive technology in health and social care for people with cognitive impairment. This review updates the authors' previous reviews (Best, O'Neill, & Gillespie, 2013; Gillespie, Best, & O'Neill, 2012) on this topic and reflects on how their conceptualization of ATC in terms of function (reminding, alerting, micro prompting, distracting, storing and displaying, navigating, and biofeedback), as opposed to the type of technology (mobile phone, desk-top computer, etc.), fits with recent developments in this field. The authors highlight the growing number of context-aware prompting devices and the move to train people with cognitive impairment to use everyday technology such as mobile phones. They also make a distinction between ATC, which augments or supplants cognitive functions, and outline avenues for future research.
Vitamin D Inhibits the Occurrence of Experimental Cerebral Malaria in Mice by Suppressing the Host Inflammatory Response
Authors: He Xiyue , Yan Juan , Zhu Xiaotong , Wang Qinghui , Pang Wei , Qi Zanmei , Wang Meilian , Luo Enjie , Parker Daniel M. , Cantorna Margherita T. , Cui Liwang , Cao Yaming
Published: June 2014

In animal models of experimental cerebral malaria (ECM), neuropathology is associated with an overwhelming inflammatory response and sequestration of leukocytes and parasite-infected RBCs in the brain. In this study, we explored the effect of vitamin D (VD; cholecalciferol) treatment on host immunity and outcome of ECM in C57BL/6 mice during Plasmodium berghei ANKA (PbA) infection. We observed that oral administration of VD both before and after PbA infection completely protected mice from ECM. VD administration significantly dampened the inducible systemic inflammatory responses with reduced circulating cytokines IFN-γ and TNF and decreased expression of these cytokines by the spleen cells. Meanwhile, VD also resulted in decreased expression of the chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10 and cytoadhesion molecules (ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and CD36) in the brain, leading to reduced accumulation of pathogenic T cells in the brain and ultimately substantial improvement of the blood–brain barriers of PbA-infected mice. In addition, VD inhibited the differentiation, activation, and maturation of splenic dendritic cells. Meanwhile, regulatory T cells and IL-10 expression levels were upregulated upon VD treatment. These data collectively demonstrated the suppressive function of VD on host inflammatory responses, which provides significant survival benefits in the murine ECM model.
Systemic Response to Ultraviolet Radiation Involves Induction of Leukocytic IL-1β and Inflammation in Zebrafish
Authors: Banerjee Sanjita , Leptin Maria
Published: June 2014

Ultraviolet radiation is a pervasive stimulus with wide-ranging effects on all living forms. The effects of UV vary from physiological to pathological, depending on levels of exposure, but the immune response at the organismal level is not well understood. We use the zebrafish embryo and larva to study immune responses to UV stress in vivo. UV exposure causes inflammation characterized by systemic induction of proinflammatory cytokines. Leukocytes are an important component of this systemic response and upregulate IL-1β expression proportional to the dose of UV exposure. Increased levels of this proinflammatory cytokine counteract the lethal effect of high doses of UV.
The Majority of Human Memory B Cells Recognizing RhD and Tetanus Resides in IgM+ B Cells
Authors: Della Valle Luciana , Dohmen Serge E. , Verhagen Onno J. H. M. , Berkowska Magdalena A. , Vidarsson Gestur , Ellen van der Schoot C.
Published: June 2014

B cell memory to T cell–dependent (TD) Ags are considered to largely reside in class-switched CD27+ cells. However, we previously observed that anti-RhD (D) Igs cloned from two donors, hyperimmunized with D+ erythrocytes, were predominantly of the IgM isotype. We therefore analyzed in this study the phenotype and frequency of D- and tetanus toxoid–specific B cells by culturing B cells in limiting dilution upon irradiated CD40L-expressing EL4.B5 cells and testing the culture supernatant. Most Ag-specific B cells for both TD Ags were found to reside in the IgM-expressing B cells, including CD27− B cells, in both hyperimmunized donors and nonhyperimmunized volunteers. Only shortly after immunization a sharp increase in Ag-specific CD27+IgG+ B cells was observed. Next, B cells were enriched with D+ erythrocyte ghosts and sorted as single cells. Sequencing of IGHV, IGLV, IGKV, and BCL6 genes from these D-specific B cell clones demonstrated that both CD27−IgM+ and CD27+IgM+ B cells harbored somatic mutations, documenting their Ag-selected nature. Furthermore, sequencing revealed a clonal relationship between the CD27−IgM+, CD27+IgM+, and CD27+IgG+ B cell subsets. These data strongly support the recently described multiple layers of memory B cells to TD Ags in mice, where IgM+ B cells represent a memory reservoir which can re-enter the germinal center and ensure replenishment of class-switched memory CD27+ B cells from Ag-experienced precursors.
3D Laparoscopic Monitors
Authors: Destro Francesca , Cantone Noemi , Lima Mario
Published: June 2014

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a relatively new surgery comprising various procedures performed with special miniaturized instruments and imaging reproduction systems. Technological advances have made MIS an efficient, safe, and applicable tool for pediatric surgeons with unquestionable advantages. The recent introduction of three-dimensional (3D) high definition systems has been advocated in order to overcome some of the problems related to standard MIS visual limitations. This short paper recapitulates the necessity to minimize MIS visualization limitations and reports the characteristics of new laparoscopic 3D systems.
Variations of Cloud Condensation Nuclei (CCN) and aerosol activity during fog-haze episode: a case study from Shanghai
Authors: Leng C. , Zhang D. , Zhang Q. , Xu C. , Cheng T. , Zhang R. , Tao J. , Chen J. , Zha S. , Zhang Y. , Li X. , Kong L.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. Measurements of Cloud condensation nuclei (CCN), condensation nuclei (CN) and aerosol chemical composition were performed simultaneously at an urban site of Shanghai from 6 to 9 November 2010. The variations of CCN number concentration (NCCN) and aerosol activity (activated aerosol fraction, NCCN/NCN) were examined during a fog-haze co-occurring event. Anthropogenic pollutants emitted from vehicles and unfavorable meteorological conditions such as low planetary boundary layer (PBL) height exerted a great influence on CN and black carbon (BC) loadings. NCCN at 0.2% supersaturation (SS) mostly fell in the range of 994 to 6268 cm−3, and the corresponding NCCN/NCN varied between 0.09 and 0.57. NCCN and NCCN/NCN usually were higher in hazy days due to increased aerosol concentration in the accumulation mode (100–500 nm), and lower in foggy-hazy and clear days. BC mass concentration posed a strong positive effect on NCCN in foggy-hazy and hazy days, whereas it poorly correlated with NCCN in clear days. NCCN/NCN was weakly related with BC both in foggy-hazy/hazy and clear days. By using a simplified particle hygroscopicity (κ), the calculated critical dry size (CDS) of activated aerosol did not exceed 130 nm at 0.2% SS in spite of diverse aerosol chemical compositions. The predicted NCCN at 0.2% SS was very successful compared with the observed NCCN in clear days (R2=0.96) and foggy-hazy/hazy days (R2=0.91). In addition, their corresponding ratios of predicted to observed NCCN were on average 0.95 and 0.92, respectively. More organic matter is possibly responsible for this closure difference between foggy-hazy/hazy and clear days. These results reveal that the particulate pollutant burden exerts a significant impact on NCCN, especially NCCN/NCN promotes effectively during the polluted periods.
Atmospheric submicron aerosol composition and particulate organic nitrate formation in a boreal forestland–urban mixed region
Authors: Hao L. Q. , Kortelainen A. , Romakkaniemi S. , Portin H. , Jaatinen A. , Leskinen A. , Komppula M. , Miettinen P. , Sueper D. , Pajunoja A. , Smith J. N. , Lehtinen K. E. J. , Worsnop D. R. , Laaksonen A. , Virtanen A.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. The Puijo aerosol-cloud observation station is a~unique measurement site for its location in the mixed region between the boreal forestland and the municipality of Kuopio, Finland. A measurement campaign was carried out at the station during fall 2010. An Aerodyne high resolution time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometer (HR-Tof-AMS) was deployed to characterize the atmospheric submicron aerosols. Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) was applied to the unified high resolution mass spectra organic species with NO+ and NO2+ ions to discover the intrinsic relationships between the organic and inorganic species and their daily cycles. On average, the submicron aerosols in this study were dominated by organic and sulfate species, making 76.9% of total observed aerosol mass, with smaller contributions from ammonium (9.3%), nitrate (4.9%), chloride (0.8%) and BC (8.1%). The sources of these species included the primary emissions originating from the city area, secondary formation from both natural and anthropogenic emissions and regional transport. The PMF analysis succeeded in separating the mixed organic and inorganic spectra into three distinct organic and one inorganic factors. For organic factors, the semi-volatile oxygenated organic aerosol (SVOOA) and low-volatile oxygenated OA (LVOOA) accounted for 89.6% of total organic masses, while the hydrocarbon-like organic aerosol (HOA) consisted of 10.4% of total organics with its main source from urban emissions. The inorganic factor is identified as NH4NO3, comprising 7.5% of the fitted aerosol mass by PMF. Based on the PMF results, the nitrate species were separated into organic and inorganic components, with the organic nitrates contributing 1 / 3 of the total nitrate mass. The results highlight both anthropogenic and biogenic emissions as important atmospheric aerosol sources in a~forest-urban mixed region.
Dependence of the cyclization of branched tetraethers (CBT) on soil moisture in the Chinese Loess Plateau and the adjacent areas: implications for palaeorainfall reconstructions
Authors: Wang H. , Liu W. , Zhang C. L.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. Branched glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (bGDGTs) have been show promising for continental paleotemperature studies in loess-paleosol sequences (LPSs). Thus far, however, little is known about the effect of soil moisture on their distributions on the Chinese Loess Plateau (CLP). In this study, the relationships between environmental variables and the cyclization of bGDGTs (the so called CBT index) were investigated in a comprehensive set of surface soils in the CLP and its adjacent arid/semi-arid areas. We find that CBT correlates best with soil water content (SWC) or mean annual precipitation (MAP) for the total sample set. Particularly for the CLP soils, there is a significant positive relationship between CBT and MAP (CBT = −0.0021 · MAP + 1.7, n = 37, R2 = 0.87; MAP range: 210–680 mm). This indicates that CBT is mainly controlled by soil moisture in the alkalescent soils (pH > 7) in arid/semi-arid regions, where it is not sensitive to soil pH. Therefore, we suggest that CBT can potentially be used as a palaeorainfall proxy on the CLP. According to the preliminary CBT–MAP relationship for modern CLP soils, palaeorainfall history was reconstructed from three LPSs (Yuanbao, Lantian, and Mangshan) with published bGDGT data spanning the past 70 ka. The CBT-derived MAP records of the three sites consistently show precession-driven variations resembling the speleothem δ18O monsoon record, and are also in general accord with the fluctuations of the respective magnetic susceptibility (MS) record, supporting CBT as a reasonable proxy for palaeorainfall reconstruction in LPS studies. Moreover, the comparison of CBT-derived MAP and bGDGT-derived temperature may enable us to further assess the relative timing and magnitude of hydrological and thermal changes on the CLP, independent of chronology.
Uncertainties in estimating regional methane emissions from rice paddies due to data scarcity in the modeling approach
Authors: Zhang W. , Zhang Q. , Huang Y. , Li T. T. , Bian J. Y. , Han P. F.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. Rice paddies are a major anthropogenic source of the atmospheric methane. However, because of the high spatial heterogeneity, making accurate estimations of the methane emission from rice paddies is still a big challenge, even with complicated models. Data scarcity is one of the substantial causes of the uncertainties in estimating the methane emissions on regional scales. In the present study, we discussed how data scarcity affected the uncertainties in model estimations of rice paddy methane emissions, from county/provincial scale up to national scale. The uncertainties in methane emissions from the rice paddies of China was calculated with a local-scale model and the Monte Carlo simulation. The data scarcities in five of the most sensitive model variables, field irrigation, organic matter application, soil properties, rice variety and production were included in the analysis. The result showed that in each individual county, the within-cell standard deviation of methane flux, as calculated via Monte Carlo methods, was 13.5–89.3% of the statistical mean. After spatial aggregation, the national total methane emissions were estimated at 6.44–7.32 Tg, depending on the base scale of the modeling and the reliability of the input data. And with the given data availability, the overall aggregated standard deviation was 16.3% of the total emissions, ranging from 18.3–28.0% for early, late and middle rice ecosystems. The 95% confidence interval of the estimation was 4.5–8.7 Tg by assuming a gamma distribution. Improving the data availability of the model input variables is expected to reduce the uncertainties significantly, especially of those factors with high model sensitivities.
Uncertainty analysis in model parameters regionalization: a case study involving the SWAT model in Mediterranean catchments (Southern France)
Authors: Sellami H. , La Jeunesse I. , Benabdallah S. , Baghdadi N. , Vanclooster M.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. In this study a method for propagating the hydrological model uncertainty in discharge predictions of ungauged Mediterranean catchments using a model parameter regionalization approach is presented. The method is developed and tested for the Thau catchment located in Southern France using the SWAT hydrological model. Regionalization of model parameters, based on physical similarity measured between gauged and ungauged catchment attributes, is a popular methodology for discharge prediction in ungauged basins, but it is often confronted with an arbitrary criterion for selecting the "behavioral" model parameter sets (Mps) at the gauged catchment. A more objective method is provided in this paper where the transferrable Mps are selected based on the similarity between the donor and the receptor catchments. In addition, the method allows propagating the modeling uncertainty while transferring the Mps to the ungauged catchments. Results indicate that physically similar catchments located within the same geographic and climatic region may exhibit similar hydrological behavior and can also be affected by similar model prediction uncertainty. Furthermore, the results suggest that model prediction uncertainty at the ungauged catchment increases as the dissimilarity between the donor and the receptor catchments increases. The methodology presented in this paper can be replicated and used in regionalization of any hydrological model parameters for estimating streamflow at ungauged catchment.
Coupling a land surface model with a crop growth model to improve ET flux estimations in the Upper Ganges basin, India
Authors: Tsarouchi G. M. , Buytaert W. , Mijic A.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. Land surface models are tools that represent energy and water flux exchanges between land and the atmosphere. Although much progress has been made in adding detailed physical processes into these models, there is much room left for improved estimates of evapotranspiration fluxes, by including a more reasonable and accurate representation of crop dynamics. Recent studies suggest a strong land surface–atmosphere coupling over India and since this is one of the most intensively cultivated areas in the world, the strong impact of crops on the evaporative flux cannot be neglected. In this study we dynamically couple the land surface model JULES with the crop growth model InfoCrop. JULES in its current version does not simulate crop growth. Instead, it treats crops as natural grass, while using prescribed vegetation parameters. Such simplification might lead to modelling errors. Therefore we developed a coupled modelling scheme that simulates dynamically crop development and parameterised it for the two main crops of the study area, wheat and rice. This setup is used to examine the impact of inter-seasonal land cover changes in evapotranspiration fluxes of the Upper Ganges river basin (India). The sensitivity of JULES with regard to the dynamics of the vegetation cover is evaluated. Our results show that the model is sensitive to the changes introduced after coupling it with the crop model. Evapotranspiration fluxes, which are significantly different between the original and the coupled model, are giving an approximation of the magnitude of error to be expected in LSMs that do not include dynamic crop growth. For the wet season, in the original model, the monthly Mean Error ranges from 7.5 to 24.4 mm m−1, depending on different precipitation forcing. For the same season, in the coupled model, the monthly Mean Error's range is reduced to 7–14 mm m−1. For the dry season, in the original model, the monthly Mean Error ranges from 10 to 17 mm m−1, depending on different precipitation forcing. For the same season, in the coupled model, the monthly Mean Error's range is reduced to 1–2 mm m−1. The new modelling scheme, by offering increased accuracy of evapotranspiration estimations, is an important step towards a better understanding of the two-way crops–atmosphere interactions.
Variational assimilation of remotely sensed flood extents using a two-dimensional flood model
Authors: Lai X. , Liang Q. , Yesou H. , Daillet S.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. A variational data assimilation (4D-Var) method is proposed to directly assimilate flood extents into a two-dimensional (2-D) dynamic flood model, to explore a novel way of utilizing the rich source of remotely sensed data available from satellite imagery for better analyzing or predicting flood routing processes. For this purpose, a new cost function is specially defined to effectively fuse the hydraulic information that is implicitly indicated in flood extents. The potential of using remotely-sensed flood extents for improving the analysis of flood routing processes is demonstrated by applying the present new data assimilation approach to both idealized and realistic numerical experiments.
Technical Note: Reducing the spin-up time of integrated surface water–groundwater models
Authors: Ajami H. , Evans J. P. , McCabe M. F. , Stisen S.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. One of the main challenges in catchment scale application of coupled/integrated hydrologic models is specifying a catchment's initial conditions in terms of soil moisture and depth to water table (DTWT) distributions. One approach to reduce uncertainty in model initialization is to run the model recursively using a single or multiple years of forcing data until the system equilibrates with respect to state and diagnostic variables. However, such "spin-up" approaches often require many years of simulations, making them computationally intensive. In this study, a new hybrid approach was developed to reduce the computational burden of spin-up time for an integrated groundwater-surface water-land surface model (ParFlow.CLM) by using a combination of ParFlow.CLM simulations and an empirical DTWT function. The methodology is examined in two catchments located in the temperate and semi-arid regions of Denmark and Australia respectively. Our results illustrate that the hybrid approach reduced the spin-up time required by ParFlow.CLM by up to 50%, and we outline a methodology that is applicable to other coupled/integrated modelling frameworks when initialization from equilibrium state is required.
Uncertainty and sensitivity analyses in seismic risk assessments on the example of Cologne, Germany
Authors: Tyagunov S. , Pittore M. , Wieland M. , Parolai S. , Bindi D. , Fleming K. , Zschau J.
Published: June 2014

Abstract. Both aleatory and epistemic uncertainties associated with different sources and components of risk (hazard, exposure, vulnerability) are present at each step of seismic risk assessments. All individual sources of uncertainty contribute to the total uncertainty, which might be very high and, within the decision-making context, may therefore lead to either very conservative and expensive decisions or the perception of considerable risk. When anatomizing the structure of the total uncertainty, it is therefore important to propagate the different individual uncertainties through the computational chain and to quantify their contribution to the total value of risk. The present study analyses different uncertainties associated with the hazard, vulnerability and loss components by the use of logic trees. The emphasis is on the analysis of epistemic uncertainties, which represent the reducible part of the total uncertainty, including a sensitivity analysis of the resulting seismic risk assessments with regard to the different uncertainty sources. This investigation, being a part of the EU FP7 project MATRIX (New Multi-Hazard and Multi-Risk Assessment Methods for Europe), is carried out for the example of, and with reference to, the conditions of the city of Cologne, Germany, which is one of the MATRIX test cases. At the same time, this particular study does not aim to revise nor to refine the hazard and risk level for Cologne; it is rather to show how large are the existing uncertainties and how they can influence seismic risk estimates, especially in less well-studied areas, if hazard and risk models adapted from other regions are used.
La ciudad híbrida. La mediación de las TIC en la experiencia de la ciudad
Authors: Trachana Angelique
Published: June 2014

El concepto de “ciudad híbrida” se acuña en el nuevo contexto tecnológico para señalar una serie de fenómenos contemporáneos que se producen en la conjunción de las condiciones físicas de la ciudad y la virtualidad de soporte tecnológico. El término puede encontrase asociado a categorías tan actuales como smart cities o “ciudades inteligentes”, “ciudades de código abierto” y a los nuevos “aprendizajes” de “hacer ciudad” con el “uso cotidiano de internet”. Aquí, sin embargo pretendemos extender el alcance de su significado haciendo una síntesis de “aprendizajes” que modifican nuestra percepción del entorno. Desde el mundo de las artes como la fotografía o el cine hasta la televisión y ahora internet y las múl­tiples herramientas telemáticas de uso cotidiano, comprobamos cómo la mediación tecnológica, incide intensificando la percepción sensible de la ciudad y ampliando el imaginario de los ciudadanos. En consecuencia se están fundando nuevos hábitos en la vida ciudadana y experimentando nuevos modelos de gestión de la ciudad. La identidad híbrida, presencial y digital, es un hecho, un género de espacio nuevo que integra el potencial imaginario y virtual que propicia la tecnología digital en el espacio físico. En estos espacios -que se generan en la red y se verifican in situ- se despliegan dinámicas interactivas y emerge la creatividad ciudadana; frecuentemente constituyen la parte informal de la ciudad.
VIGIAR E PUNIR NA ESCOLA: a microfísica do poder
Authors: Paniago Maria Lourdes Faria
Published: June 2014

O objetivo do presente trabalho é investigar a teoria de Michel Foucault (1926-1984), principalmente as descritas nas obras “Vigiar e Punir” e “Microfísica do Poder”, no que se referem a práticas de subjetivação no contexto escolar, ou seja, a forma como a escola tem fabricado sujeitos constitui o principal foco dessa investigação.
ENSINO DE LEITURA E INTERPRETAÇÃO TEXTUAL A PARTIR DO TEXTO “UMA VELA PARA DARIO”
Authors: Silva, Sílvio Ribeiro da
Published: June 2014

As atividades de leitura e interpretação de textos desenvolvidas em sala de aula seguem uma perspectiva decodificadora. Aos alunos são propostas questões cujas respostas são de fácil identificação no texto, não oferecendo desafios. A partir disso, este artigo apresenta a prática de ensino de dois professores de uma escola pública a partir de atividades de leitura e interpretação, elaboradas por eles, do texto Uma Vela para Dario. Observamos se os professores partiram de uma prática decodificadora de leitura, ou se apresentaram uma visão de leitura como um processo no qual deve ser construído um sentido.
PROFESSORES DE EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA DAS ESCOLAS PÚBLICAS DA CIDADE DE JATAÍ-GO: VIDA E TRABALHO
Authors: Gori Renata Machado de Assis , Azevedo Sílvia Helais de
Published: June 2014

A intenção em desenvolver esta pesquisa foi no sentido de verificar as condições de trabalho e de vida social e familiar dos professores de Educação Física que atuam na rede pública de ensino de Jataí-GO. Três categorias de análise se destacaram: a (des)valorização profissional dos professores- extensa jornada de trabalho e professores trabalhando em mais de uma escola; a precariedade das condições físicas e materiais das escolas- inibindo a criatividade e a possibilidade de fazer um bom trabalho; e as implicações da falta de tempo dos professores- que sofre influência dos baixos salários e dificulta a qualificação continuada, interferindo na vida familiar e social dos docentes.
A PRÁTICA DOCENTE NO ENSINO SUPERIOR: DA CONCEPÇÃO DE UNIVERSIDADE AOS PROCESSOS DE FORMAÇÃO DE PROFESSORES
Authors: Silva Margarida Do Amaral , Pitaluga Thiago Oliveira
Published: June 2014

É valido considerar, como objeto do presente estudo, uma reflexão sobre instituições de ensino superior enquanto espaços para a atuação docente, de modo que o modelo de conduta docente, expresso usualmente pelas instituições de ensino superior, possam ser analisados por designar uma forma de concepção de educação dissociada às premissas de superação das contradições sociais que regem a qualidade de vida dos grupos que pluralizam o “universo das universidades”, dentro e fora dos limites edificados destas instituições.Trata-se, sobretudo, de um texto que reflete as linhas básicas da construção de um pensamento conceitual sobre a universidade como produto/produtor de práticas humanas, em especial, advindas de sujeitos que concretizam a necessidade de “formar para promover” através da ressignificação do olhar daquele que adentra aos “universos do saber” ditos “universidades”.
UNIVERSIDADES CORPORATIVAS: UMA NOVA CONCEPÇÃO PARA O ENSINO SUPERIOR?
Authors: Assis Pires Luciene Lima
Published: June 2014

RESUMO: No presente artigo, analisa-se a estrutura e a expansão das universidades corporativas no Brasil. Em um primeiro momento apresenta-se o modelo seguido por essas universidades, que incorporaram a tradução da expressão corporate university utilizadas nos Estados Unidos, sem incorporarem a idéia brasileira de se trabalhar com ensino / pesquisa / extensão. Em seguida demonstra-se como estas instituições se estruturam e de que forma se organizam. Enumera-se as principais universidades corporativas já instaladas e o sistema de convênios que realizam com instituições conceituadas para assegurarem a certificação dos cursos. Palavras-Chave: Ensino Superior - Universidade Corporativa - Universidade Acadêmica
FORMAÇÃO, CURRÍCULO E ENSINO DE GRADUAÇÃO
Authors: Corbiniano Simone Alexandre Martins
Published: June 2014

Resumo  O ensino na universidade tem enfatizado cada vez mais em seus currículos as necessidades do mercado de trabalho e do desenvolvimento econômico e tecnológico. Contudo, é preciso empenhar-se no diálogo acerca da formação do cidadão e, em especial, do educador valorizando os nexos que constituem essa formação como processo mais amplo, não restrito à formação profissional. Ao situar a questão da formação na atualidade, cabe lembrar o sentido humano, cultural e histórico que a instituição universitária logra na sociedade. Decorrente desse sentido, o ensino de graduação deve voltar-se não somente ao desenvolvimento de habilidades que possibilitem às pessoas participarem da dimensão econômica da sociedade, mas, sobretudo, à formação comprometida com a busca do saber, a criação e a crítica. Esses princípios são indispensáveis à formação dos sujeitos em sua totalidade humana.
Influence of magnetic field on germination, growth and production of tomato
Authors: Jedlička Jaroslav , Paulen Oleg , Ailer Štefan
Published: June 2014

In the study with tomatoes, there was ivestigated the impact of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields on seed germination of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) after treatment before sowing, as well as the growth of young plants that were exposed to low frequency electromagnetic field before planting in the field when growing transplants under cover. In the experiments conducted in two consecutive years (2012 and 2013), we followed the length of seed germination period of tomato variety „Pavlína", growth of young plants expressed in plant height and root length, and the fruit size. Magnetization of seeds and young plants was carried out in laboratory conditions, plant growth was evaluated under cover prior to planting, and fruit traits were followed in field conditions where plants were grown on experimental plots (80.0 m2). The plants were grown in accordance with the standards of an agricultural practice for tomato. At the generative phase, the fruits were collected at regular intervals, and their number and weight were evaluated. Low frequency electromagnetic fields acting at the three inductance levels (20, 40 and 60 mT) and exposure of 20 minutes a day with frequency of 50 Hz, significantly positively influenced the germination, plant growth and fruit size of the studied tomato variety.