bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epilepsy in Shunted Posthemorrhagic Infantile Hydrocephalus Owing to Pre- or Perinatal Intra- or Periventricular Hemorrhage
Authors: Battaglia Domenica , Grazia Pasca Maria , Cesarini Laura , Tartaglione Tommaso , Acquafondata Celeste , Randò Teresa , Veredice Chiara , Ricci Daniela , Guzzetta Francesco
Published: March 2016

Epilepsy is relatively common in infants with hydrocephalus. Its mechanism is controversial; in fact, studies on etiologically heterogeneous series are not able to clarify the mechanism generating epilepsy or to suggest effective prevention and treatment strategies. Our study is aimed at assessing the onset and evolution of epilepsy, as well as concurrent cognitive development of a homogeneous series of shunted posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus owing to pre- or perinatal intra- or periventricular hemorrhage. Forty patients were enrolled in the study. Twenty-six were patients with grade II—III intraventricular hemorrhage, 16 of whom had associated ischemic lesions. In the remaining 14 patients, a grade IV intraventricular hemorrhage was found. Epilepsy was observed in 27 patients. Aside from 10 cases with nonsyndromic forms of epilepsy, it was possible to define at least three different age-dependent epileptic syndromes: symptomatic neonatal location-related epilepsy with transient West's syndrome in infancy in 5 patients; West's syndrome in 8 patients; and continuous spike-waves during sleep in 4 patients. Epilepsy was significantly correlated with ischemic lesions only. Early thalamic injuries frequently evolved toward continuous spike-waves during sleep, indicating that patients with thalamic injury must be monitored to detect continuous spike-waves during sleep early. Cerebellar atrophy, in addition to epilepsy and other brain injuries, accounted for disorders of cognitive development. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:219—225).
A Pediatric Neurologist's Clinical Experiences in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Chaves-Carballo Enrique
Published: March 2016

From 1996 to 2002, I was head of a pediatric neurology section and helped develop a fellowship training program in Saudi Arabia. This was a most rewarding learning experience because of an abundance of neurometabolic and neurodegenerative diseases in a population with a high rate of consanguinity. In addition to inborn errors of metabolism, other prevalent disorders included late-infantile neuronal ceroid-lipofuscinosis, hyperekplexia, focal cortical dysplasias, sarcoglycanopathies, familial spastic paraplegia, demyelinating diseases, and dysmorphic syndromes. These patient experiences were a rich source of stimulation for clinical teaching and research. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:226—229).
New Treatments for Denervating Diseases
Authors: Pleasure David
Published: March 2016

There has been considerable recent progress in understanding mechanisms by which gene mutations cause degeneration of motoneurons and peripheral nerves. Novel therapies inspired by these insights have begun to yield promising results in mouse models of these genetic diseases. Among these have been the use of small molecules or proteins to suppress gain-of-function mutations (eg, ascorbic acid for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A) or to restore enzyme activities that are deficient because of loss-of-function mutations (eg, treatment of Fabry's disease with recombinant α-galactosidase or with low-molecular-weight α-galactosidase chaperones and treatment of spinal muscular atrophy with phenylbutyrate). Some of these therapies are already being tested in humans. Equally exciting is the prospect that small molecules and proteins will be identified that exert potent therapeutic effects in a broad spectrum of inherited and acquired motoneuron and peripheral nerve disorders. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:258—262).
A Child With Friedreich's Ataxia and Epilepsy
Authors: Golomb Meredith R. , Illner Anna , Christensen Celanie K. , Walsh Laurence E.
Published: March 2016

Epilepsy in Friedreich's ataxia is rare. We describe a 9-year-old boy with Friedreich's ataxia who had onset of symptoms in the second year of life and developed a generalized epilepsy at age 5 years. On cerebral magnetic resonance imaging, he has a subependymal gray-matter heterotopia. We suggest that his gray-matter heterotopia might be related to his diagnosis of Friedreich's ataxia and that his early onset of symptoms might be related to the length of his guanine - adenine - Adenine (GAA) triplet repeat expansion. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:248—250).
Childhood Case of Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy With Improved Clinical Outcome
Authors: Demir Ercan , Liebert Uwe G. , Söylemezoglu Figen , Yalaz Kalbiye , Köse Gülsen , Anlar Banu
Published: March 2016

A 6-year-old boy who had been in remission from acute lymphoblastic leukemia for 2.5 years presented with seizures, hemiparesis, visual loss, and white- and gray-matter lesions on cranial magnetic resonance imaging. The diagnosis of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy was established on the detection of JC virus DNA by polymerase chain reaction in brain tissue. The patient was administered several anticonvulsants, amantadine, acyclovir, and ganciclovir. He showed partial recovery. This case illustrates the possibility of long-term survival in progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy with normal immunologic parameters. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:241—244).
Depressed Left Ventricular Contractile Reserve Diagnosed by Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography in a Patient With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Wong Brenda L. Y. , Mukkada Vincent A. , Markham Larry W. , Cripe Linda H.
Published: March 2016

Cardiomyopathy is a leading cause of death in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Congestive heart failure is often subclinical and unrecognized as a result of the severe physical limitations of this patient population. We report the case of a 16-year-old boy with Duchenne muscular dystrophy who demonstrated normal left ventricular systolic function at rest by screening transthoracic echocardiogram. This patient, however, was noted to have depressed left ventricular contractile reserve by dobutamine stress echocardiography. Dobutamine stress echocardiography can have an important role in unmasking subclinical heart failure in this patient population. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:246—248).
Panuveitis in Association with Pseudotumor Cerebri
Authors: Margalit Eyal , Sung Jennifer U. , Do Diana V. , Yohay Kaleb , Quan Dong Nguyen
Published: March 2016

We report a case of an 11-year-old girl with bilateral panuveitis in association with pseudotumor cerebri. The patient underwent complete ophthalmologic, neurologic, and laboratory evaluations and was treated with therapy for pseudotumor cerebri. The patient met the diagnostic criteria for pseudotumor cerebri and also had panuveitis. Symptoms and findings of pseudotumor cerebri and panuveitis improved significantly after combination therapy of oral acetazolamide and weight reduction. The index case illustrates that pseudotumor cerebri can be associated with panuveitis. Therapy for pseudotumor cerebri might also help with the resolution of uveitis. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:234—236).
Pediatric Refractory Partial Status Epilepticus Responsive to Topiramate
Authors: Blumkin Lubov , Lerman-Sagie Tally , Houri Tzion , Gilad Eli , Nissenkorn Andrea , Ginsberg Mira , Watemberg Nathan
Published: March 2016

Topiramate was safely administered to two young children with refractory partial status epilepticus via nasogastric tube in rapid titration up to a very high total daily dose. An excellent clinical response occurred in both cases. Reaching high daily doses of topiramate within days allowed for safe discontinuation of other antiepileptic drugs in both patients. Given the high efficacy of rapidly titrated topiramate in our patients, this medication may be useful in some cases of pediatric refractory partial status epilepticus. However, more clinical studies on this therapeutic approach are needed to establish the precise role of topiramate in status epilepticus in children.( J Child Neurol 2005;20:239—241).
Contextuality, Commensurability, and Comparability in Comparative Research
Authors: Wang Georgette , Huang Yi-Hui Christine
Published: March 2016

To ward off naïve universalism, researchers are urged to stay context sensitive in conducting comparative research. But robust hypothesis testing requires making comparisons across cultures with not only different traditions but also different knowledge paradigms, which in turn calls for more sophisticated contextualization and thicker interpretations that risk eroding the basis of comparison. To respond to these issues, this study has used research on Chinese relationships as an example to demonstrate how the incommensurability/commensurability framework can be useful in dealing with the problem. It shows how a thorough examination of the unique and the incommensurably different has revealed commensurable similarities that can pave the way to theory advancement.
Porosity of heavy oil sand: Laboratory measurement and bound analysis
Authors: Li Hui , Han De-Hua , Yuan Hemin , Qin Xuan , Zhao Luanxiao
Published: March 2016

The conventional porosity measurement is not adequate to precisely measure “as-is” porosity of heavy oil sand samples due to its irregular sample shape, pore-filling viscous fluids, and especially difficult storage without losing mass. From a practical laboratory point of view, a confined porosity measurement strategy is specifically introduced to measure the as-is porosity of heavy oil sand sample. This overall strategy primarily consists of two parts. First of all, as-is porosity is estimated by using the assumed parameters (grain density, fluid density, and fluids saturation) and measured bulk density that is calculated from the Archimedes principle, which not only keeps the sample intact, but also is advantageous for minimizing mass loss and external covers. Furthermore, by extracting the pore fluids (heavy oil, water, and possibly gas) from the original sample, the assumed indispensable parameters are precisely measured; more importantly, a group of porosity data can be calculated by applying directly measured grain volume data and bulk volume data. Based on the measured data and error analysis, we have concluded that the porosity calculated from these directly measured data set gives us a low porosity bound whereas as-is porosity estimated from the Archimedes principle indicates the upper bound.
Reduction of Sulfoxides with Ascorbic Acid Catalyzed by NBS
Authors: Abbasi Mohammad , Mohammadizadeh Mohammad Reza , Moradi Zahra
Published: March 2016

An efficient procedure to reduce sulfoxides using ascorbic acid has been developed. Using this procedure structurally diverse sulfoxides were reduced by treating with ascorbic acid in the presence of a catalytic amount of N-bromosuccinimide (NBS) at room temperature in high yields.
Scope and Limitations of Supramolecular Autoregulation
Authors: Teunissen Abraham J P , van der Haas Roy J C , Vekemans Jef A J M , Palmans Anja R A , Meijer E W
Published: March 2016

Recently, our group has reported on the ureidopyrimidinone (UPy) induced buffering of 2,7-diamido-1,8-naphthyridine (NaPy) and used this phenomenon to regulate the catalysis of the Michael addition of 2,4-pentanedione to trans-β-nitrostyrene. We now show that the observed catalytic activity of NaPy is the result of a strong synergy between NaPy and trace amounts of K2CO3, resulting in a more than 100-fold increase in reaction rate compared to the two compounds separately. By keeping the concentration of K2CO3, as well as NaPy, constant, an improved regulation of the catalytic activity is achieved. We show that the catalytic activity can be precisely regulated in a noncovalent manner via the addition of the UPy motif. Finally, different salts and Michael substrates are screened to assess the selectivity of this catalytic couple and to provide a platform for future research in molecular buffering, regulation, and chemical networks.
Computer Simulation of Kinematic Surfaces
Authors: Усманова  , Usmanova E. , Короткий  , Korotkiy Viktor , Хмарова  , Khmarova Lyudmila
Published: March 2016

A geometric surface model is formed taking into account

given functional, structural, technological, economic, aesthetic

requirements. These requirements are formulated in geometric

terms and are expressed in terms of the surface parameters. The

surface is modeled either Kinematics manner, or by way of a twodimensional

interpolation. In accordance with in accordance with

the kinematic method, the surface is formed as a continuous oneparameter

many curves that form simulated in the surface. In accordance

with the interpolation method, the surface consists of a

set of elementary two-dimensional fragments. The article considered

cinema optical method based on the use of curves of the second

order of change-nests of the eccentricity as the main shaping element.

To control the shape of the design surfaces are used for guide

ruled surfaces (cilindroidy and conoid). Computer program is

compiled, which determines the eccentricity of the forming curves

of the second order depending on the boundary conditions. The

program allows you to plot curve of the second order, given an

arbitrary set of five coplanar points and tangents. When modeling

the surface of the passing through a closed circuit, is used the mapping

of this contour in four-dimensional space. Such mapping gives

more possibilities for control surface shape. It is shown that the

kinematics method computer simulation of the surface has technological

advantages properties instead of interpolation method.
Service Provisioning Problem in Cloud and Multi-Cloud Systems
Authors: Passacantando Mauro , Ardagna Danilo , Savi Anna
Published: March 2016

Cloud computing is a new emerging paradigm that aims to streamline the on-demand provisioning of resources as services, providing end users with flexible and scalable services accessible through the Internet on a pay-per-use basis. Because modern cloud systems operate in an open and dynamic world characterized by continuous changes, the development of efficient resource provisioning policies for cloud-based services becomes increasingly challenging.

This paper aims to study the hourly basis service provisioning problem through a generalized Nash game model. We take the perspective of Software as a Service (SaaS) providers that want to minimize the costs associated with the virtual machine instances allocated in a multiple Infrastructures as a Service (IaaS) scenario while avoiding incurring penalties for execution failures and providing quality of service guarantees. SaaS providers compete and bid for the use of infrastructural resources, whereas the IaaSs want to maximize their revenues obtained providing virtualized resources.

We propose a solution algorithm based on the best-reply dynamics, which is suitable for a distributed implementation. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach by performing numerical tests, considering multiple workloads and system configurations. Results show that our algorithm is scalable and provides significant cost savings with respect to alternative methods (5% on average but up to 260% for individual SaaS providers). Furthermore, varying the number of IaaS providers means an 8%–15% cost savings can be achieved from the workload distribution on multiple IaaSs.
Do Preference Reversals Disappear When We Allow for Probabilistic Choice?
Authors: Loomes Graham , Pogrebna Ganna
Published: March 2016

The “preference reversal phenomenon,” a systematic disparity between people’s valuations and choices, poses challenges for theory and policy. Using a very general formulation of probabilistic preferences, we show that the phenomenon is not mainly due to intransitive choice. We find a high degree of regularity within choice tasks and also within valuation tasks, but the two types of tasks appear to evoke very different cognitive processes, even when the experimental environment tries to minimise differences. We discuss possible implications for modelling and eliciting preferences.

Data, as supplemental material, are available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2015.2333 .

This paper was accepted by Manel Baucells, decision analysis.
Inside the “Hybrid” Iron Cage: Political Origins of Hybridization
Authors: Kim Tai-Young , Shin Dongyoub , Jeong Young-Chul
Published: March 2016

This paper examines how social-movement-type political interactions between conflicting parties within an organization influence the adoption of a hybrid practice. We argue that a hybrid practice is likely to be adopted when power balance between challengers and incumbents is achieved. To shed light on conditions for organizational settlement based on such power balance, we focus on three factors: structures, actors, and processes of social-movement-type political interactions within organizations. By studying changes in the presidential selection systems of Korean universities between 1988 and 2006, this paper illustrates how organizational settlement resulted in the adoption of a hybrid system by combining elements of two previous competing presidential selection systems—appointment and direct voting systems. The general implications for the understanding of hybridization, organizational settlement, and organizational heterogeneity are discussed.
Pickup and Delivery Service with Manpower Planning in Hong Kong Public Hospitals
Authors: Lim Andrew , Zhang Zhenzhen , Qin Hu
Published: March 2016

This paper deals with a real-life healthcare problem derived from the Non-Emergency Ambulance Transfer Service for Hong Kong public hospitals which provides transportation services for disabled or elderly patients between their residences and clinics. The problem is modeled as a multitrip pickup and delivery problem with time windows and manpower planning (MTPDPTW-MP) that not only needs to design and schedule ambulance routes satisfying a series of constraints but also requires staff scheduling. Because of the strict limits on route duration, each ambulance traverses several routes per day, which, starting and terminating at the depot, complete a series of pickup and delivery operations to serve the clients. A feasible route demands a driver and several assistants to serve the clients and needs to satisfy some constraints, such as capacity, pickup before delivery, time windows, etc. The objective is hierarchical in that it primarily serves as many clients as possible, then minimizes the operational cost, and finally strikes a balance for the staff workload. Theoretically, MTPDPTW-MP, which is a combination of two well known NP-hard problems (i.e., the pickup and delivery problem with time windows and the staff scheduling problem), is difficult to solve. In this study, we propose an iterated local search metaheuristic that uses a variable neighborhood descent procedure in the local search phase. We use a modified regret insertion method to construct solutions; a heuristic backtracking algorithm is designed to schedule staff. To speed up the process, we adapt the segment-based evaluation for moves and reduce the neighborhoods explored based on the characteristics of the problem. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm was tested in real-world instances. Results showed that it can serve more requests than the manually designed plans. In addition, the performance of the proposed algorithm was evaluated on a simplified problem: the multitrip vehicle routing problem with time windows.
Identifying and managing underperformance in nursing students
Authors: Elliott Chris
Published: March 2016

Student nurses are the future of the profession and require high levels of commitment and skill from the registered nurses charged with mentoring and guiding them on the road to registration. Evidence suggests that mentors are failing to recognise underperformance and as such are missing opportunities to effectively manage and encourage improvement in failing students. The literature is also demonstrative of mentors failing to fail students who do not achieve requisite standards, thus allowing sub-optimal students to progress on towards registration. This article examines literature relating to effective management of underperforming students in clinical practice and the need to fail those who do not meet the required standards. The article seeks to provide mentors with an understanding of why some are ‘failing to fail’, as well as highlighting implications for skill improvement. It is the result of an ongoing local skill-improvement project. Key themes for improvement are discussed including issues of mentor confidence, early identification of underperformance, improving mentor–student relationships and the need for open, honest communication.
Cost effectiveness of stoma accessories
Authors: Skipper Gill
Published: March 2016

Gill Skipper, Stoma Care Sister, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, King's Lynn NHS Trust, looks at aspects to consider when prescribing stoma care accessories
Pain management in physical rehabilitation
Authors: Goldberg Mary Ellen
Published: March 2016

Pain management involves more than just the use of pharmaceutical or nutraceutical medications. Physical rehabilitation can be an aid in controlling pain whether post operative, from a disease process or as part of aging. In the USA veterinary technicians/nurses can become certified physiotherapist technicians/nurses; being able to recognise and score pain is a primary skill for the veterinary technicians certified in physical rehabilitation. One of the primary benefits of physical rehabilitation is reducing pain. The veterinary physiotherapist will perform a clinical evaluation aided by the physiotherapist tchnician/nurse. The physiotherapist nurse will be performing various physical modalities to the patient as prescribed by the physiotherapist. Mobility issues can be painful and are a common reason for geriatric patients to undergo physiotherapy.
Vets call for ban on electric ‘shock collars’
Authors: Wensley Sean
Published: March 2016

Following a response to a recent consultation by the Scottish Government, last month the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) called for a ban on the use of electric pulse training aids (EPTAs), so-called ‘shock collars’, in the UK.
Facilitating and Dealing with Learner Differences in the Online Classroom
Authors: McFarlane Donovan A.
Published: March 2016

This paper explores the challenges faced by teachers and educators in the online classroom, especially in light of existing learner differences among students stemming from intelligence, socioeconomic status (SES), culture, gender, among other factors. The author examines the characteristics of the online classroom and looks at learner differences as significant factors impacting teacher responsibilities in the online setting. Several challenges common to facilitated online learning (FOL) and independent online learning (IOL) in the online classroom are examined and brought into perspective as the author applies social science theories such as self-efficacy, multiple intelligences theory, social distance theory and comparative homogeneity, pedagogy and classroom management theories in analyzing and addressing these challenges. The author makes several recommendations for online teachers and educators to address the problems and challenges that are present in the online classroom and then explores the implications for teaching and learning. Finally, the author espouses a need for research into the major issue under discussion.
Modelling the Influences of Beliefs on Preservice Teachers' Attitudes towards Computer Use
Authors: Teo Timothy
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this study is to examine the pre-service teachers’ attitudes toward computers use. The impact of five variables (perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, subjective norm, facilitating conditions, and technological complexity) on attitude towards computer was assessed. Data were collected from 230 preservice teachers through self-report and structural equation modelling was used as the technique for analysis. Results showed that 64% of the variance in attitude towards computer use was explained by the five exogenous variables. In addition, perceived usefulness, subjective norm, and technological complexity were found to be significant influences on attitude toward computer use while perceived ease of use and facilitating conditions did not.
Special Needs Assistants: The Special Charcteristics and Strenght of the School System of Finland
Authors: Mäensivu Kati-Tuulia , Uusiautti Satu , Määttä Kaarina
Published: March 2016

The contribution of special needs assistants (SNA) is becoming increasingly important in inclusive and special classrooms. However, the profession itself has remained unexplored. The purpose of this article is to describe special needs assistants’ perceptions on their education, professional competence, the content and significance of their work within the school system of Finland, and the further development of their role and content of their work. 171 special needs assistants from the province of Lapland participated in the research. This research was a mixed methods research where the data was collected in 2010 through a semi-structured questionnaire that consisted both quantitative and qualitative elements and was, therefore, analyzed both by using qualitative and quantitative analyzing methods. The results highlighted the diversity, challenges and development needs of special needs assistants’ work. Special needs assistants are strength and can work as a support for teachers, students, and parents.
An Event-Related Potentials Study of Mental Rotation in Identifying Chemical Structural Formulas
Authors: Huang Chin-Fei , Liu Chia-Ju
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this study was to investigate how mental rotation strategies affect the identification of chemical structural formulas. This study conducted event-related potentials (ERPs) experiments. In addition to the data collected in the ERPs, a Chemical Structure Conceptual Questionnaire and interviews were also administered for data collection. Eighteen university students majoring in chemistry were recruited. In the ERP experiments, the participants were required to identify 2D figures, 2D chemical structural formulas, 3D objects and 3D chemical structural formulas. The contours of 2D figures are similar to those of 2D chemical structural formulas, but they contain no content knowledge. Likewise, the contours of 3D objects are similar to 3D chemical structural formulas without content knowledge. The results showed that all students used similar strategies of mental rotation in identifying 2D figures, 3D objects and 3D chemical structural formulas. However, the high-achieving students used different strategies in identifying 2D figures and chemical structural formulas, while the low-achieving students tended to use similar strategies of mental rotation in identifying both 2D figures and chemical structural formulas. The results indicate that some of the difficulties in identifying 2D chemical structural formulas that students encounter are due to their inappropriate strategies of mental rotation.
Developing Critical Thinking Skills in Students: A Mandate for Higher Education in Nigeria
Authors: Adeyemi Sunday Bankole
Published: March 2016

This paper is conceptualized to examine ways by which higher education in our own country (Nigeria) could be re-organized in such a manner that critical thinking skills could be imbued in the young learners, in order to make them problem solvers, thereby become assets rather than liabilities to the Nigerian society. In specific terms, the paper examines such issues as the concept of critical thinking, the importance of critical thinking to the nation, means of inculcating it in the students – particularly at the higher education level, and finally makes recommendations on how this could be effectively carried out.
Integration of Programmed Instruction into Mathematics and Science Teaching: A Panacea to Students Dwindling Interest in Mathematics and Science in Nigerian Schools
Authors: Oginni Omoniyi Israel , Owolabi Olabode Thomas
Published: March 2016

This study examined Programmed Instruction (PI) a panacea to students’ dwindling interest in mathematics. Descriptive research of survey design was adopted for the study. A questionnaire was designed to collect data from a sample of seven hundred and fifty (750) respondents which include 700 Students and 50 Teachers from Public and Private Secondary Schools in Ado-Ekiti Local Government Area of Ekiti State in Nigeria. The study revealed that usage of programmed instruction beef up curiosity in mathematics students and resulted to greater retention and mastery of subject matter. Also, the study revealed that lack of trained personnel to help guide students in the use of programmed books, scarcity of programmed books in the society, high cost of procuring programmed books and machine and lack of necessary infrastructural facilities have been the factors militating against the implementation of programmed instruction in schools. Based on the findings, it was recommended that curriculum experts should develop various using the programmed instruction approach. Government should release fund for the development of programmed books and school authority should encourage their teachers to attend seminars and workshops, were they could gain knowledge of how to implement programmed instruction and other pedagogical skills that will enhance the teaching and learning of mathematics. Also, there should be provision of necessary infrastructural facilities in schools for easy implementation of programmed instruction.
How to Train Good Teachers in Finnish Universities? Student Teachers’ Study Process and Teacher Educators’ Role in It
Authors: Uusiautti Satu , Maatta Kaarina
Published: March 2016

Due to Finnish pupils’ achievements in international comparisons, also Finnish teacher training has been widely acknowledged. Today’s educational policies aim at making teacher training more effective in Finland. However, in order to realize this in practice, not only reforms in educational policy or institutions are enough. More attention should be paid on student teachers’ study processes as a whole. In this article, we introduce an illustration of the factors that comprise student teachers’ study processes at universities. Based on the illustration, we will discuss what makes a good study process as the teacher’s academic degree and how teacher educators can make students’ progress on their study paths motivating and fruitful. We argue that teacher educators should be more thoughtful and willing to genuinely help and confront students as individuals: teacher educators should act as mentors who further students’ engagement in studying.
Desirable Attributes and Practices for Mentees: Mentor Teachers’ Expectations
Authors: Hudson Peter
Published: March 2016

Research indicates attributes and practices for mentor teachers that can be used for effective mentoring. Universities provide guidelines for preservice teacher (mentee) engagement in schools generally from anecdotal evidence, however, what are desirable attributes and practices for mentees? This qualitative study gathers data from 25 mentor teachers through an extended response questionnaire and audio-recorded focus group discussions about attributes and practices for mentees. Findings showed that desirable attributes for mentees included: enthusiasm, being personable, commitment to children, lifelong learning/love of learning, open/reflective to feedback, develop resilience, and taking responsibility for their learning, while desirable practices included: planned and preparation for teaching, reflective practices; understanding school and university policies, knowing students for differentiated learning, and building a teaching repertoire (e.g. teaching strategies, behaviour management, content knowledge, and questioning skills). Preservice teachers need to consider teachers‟ suggestions on desirable attributes and practices that can help them achieve positive teaching experiences.
Perception of Teachers of Agriculture about Supervised Agricultural Experience Programmes (SAEP) in Secondary Schools in Ekiti and Ondo States Nigeria
Authors: Famiwole Remi O. , Kolawole Emmanuel Babafemi
Published: March 2016

The study investigated the perception of teachers of agriculture about Supervised Agricultural Experience Programmes (SAEP) in secondary schools in Ekiti and Ondo States. The population used for the study consisted of 520 teachers of agricultural science in all the secondary schools in Ekiti and Ondo States. The sample used for this study was 136 teachers of agricultural science drawn through a proportionate stratified sampling technique to pick four(4) teachers from each of the 34 Local Government of the two states. The Instrument used was a structured questionnaire to investigate the extend to which the teachers agreed on disagree with statemenst regarding SAEP. The questionnaire were test and re-tested yielding a reliability co-efficient of 89. (Cronbach alpha). The data for the study were analyzed using mean, standard deviation t-test and two tailed probability statistics. The probability level was set at P<0.05. Thirty eight items were generated for the study. The study found out among others that the teaching of agriculture needs improvement; that though SEAP related contents are in the agricultural science curriculum the teaching and learning of agriculture are not vocationally oriented in Ekiti and Ondo States. It was recommended among others that agricultural programmes in all schools should include supervised agricultural experience programmes, while the State School Boards in collaboration with relevant Ministries should conduct informational workshop and orientation on SAEP for educational planners, administrator and teachers of agriculture in Nigeria.
Flexible Delivery Approach in Architecture and Construction Management Course
Authors: Chan Eric
Published: March 2016

The millennial generation is facing challenges in their career path and they believe that tertiary education can help them to equip better to tackle against. However, some students find it difficult to rush back to classroom due to work commitment. Fortunately, flexible education developed these years allows students to capture knowledge anytime and anywhere easier. In order to deliver courses in line with students’ need, many universities have considered offering alternative studying modes, such as flexible method, to enrich the course delivery. Using a case study, this paper investigates the delivery approach adopted by a school of a well-known university in Australia. This School offers architecture and construction management courses and has successfully adopted the flexible approach, with the aid of various online teaching and learning tools: the Cloud, Elluminate Live!, EchoSystem, Mediawiki and ePortfolio, in delivering subjects. It is welcomed by various cohorts of students. Not only the student numbers have been increased, but the School is also the first preference when students opting architecture and construction management studies. Statistics also indicate students’ satisfaction and course experience are improved. The success of this School proves itself to be an exemplar for other educators planning for flexible delivery.
Heat Transfer Characteristics during Superheated Steam Vacuum Drying of Poplar
Authors: He Zhengbin , Qiu Shu , Zhang Yu , Zhao Zijian , Yi Songlin
Published: March 2016

Superheated steam vacuum drying shows major advantages in terms of reducing the boiling point of water and speeding up the drying process, but to our knowledge, no researcher has addressed the effects of drying conditions on heat transfer characteristics during superheated steam vacuum drying of wood. In this study, we did so using fast-growing poplar. Temperatures inside the wood were measured and the convective heat transfer coefficients calculated under temperature conditions of 35°C, 55°C, and 70°C and absolute pressures of 0.03, 0.06, and 0.1 MPa. The results of our subsequent analysis showed that the ultimate temperatures inside wood increase alongside increasing absolute pressure at the set temperature conditions and are lower than that of the drying medium. In addition, we found that convective heat transfer coefficients increase as absolute pressure increases at the set temperatures and also increase as temperature increases at set absolute pressure conditions. We then established a convective heat transfer coefficient model based on the experimental results. The findings presented here may provide theoretical guidance for maximizing the available advantages of superheated steam vacuum drying and choosing appropriate drying schedules for poplar in future applications.
Soliton solutions of nonlinear wave equation in finite de-formation elastic cylindrical rod by solitary wave ansatz method
Authors: Subhaschandra Singh Salam
Published: March 2016

In this paper, we consider nonlinear wave equation in finite deformation elastic cylindrical rod and obtain soliton solutions by Solitary Wave Ansatz method. It is shown that the ansatz method provides a very effective and powerful mathematical tool for obtaining solutions for Nonlinear Evolution Equations (NLEEs) in nonlinear Science.

Elastic Rod; Finite Deformation; Nonlinear Wave Equation; Solitary Wave Ansatz Method; Soliton.
Inhomogeneous cosmology with quasi-vacuum effective equation of state on Lyra manifold
Authors: Shchigolev Victor
Published: March 2016

A class of inhomogeneous Lemaître-Tolman cosmological models is obtained in the context of Lyra’s geometry. Cosmological models in Lyra’s geometry are studied under the condition of the minimal coupling of matter with the displacement vector field and the varying Λ term. Exact solutions to the model equations are obtained subject to the quasi-vacuum effective equation of state. As a result, the displacement field as well as the cosmological term can be expressed in terms of the energy density of matter. The rate of expansion and the deceleration parameter of the model are also studied
Selective Sensitization: Consuming a Food Activates a Goal to Consume Its Complements
Authors: Huh Young Eun , Vosgerau Joachim , Morewedge Carey K.
Published: March 2016

Eating a food reduces the desire to eat more of that food. General-process theories of motivation posit that eating a food also increases the motivation to eat other foods—an effect known as cross-stimulus sensitization. The authors propose that eating a food selectively sensitizes consumers to its complements rather than to all foods. Eating a food activates a goal to consume foods that consumers perceive to be well paired with the consumed food. In five experiments, imagined and actual consumption of a food sensitized participants to complementary foods but not to unrelated or semantically associated foods. These findings suggest that cross-stimulus sensitization is more specific and predictable than previously assumed. The authors identify goal activation as the process through which cross-stimulus sensitization occurs and can be instilled.
Ask and You Shall (Not) Receive: Close Friends Prioritize Relational Signaling over Recipient Preferences in Their Gift Choices
Authors: Ward Morgan K. , Broniarczyk Susan M.
Published: March 2016

Gift givers balance their goal to please recipients with gifts that match recipient preferences against their own goal to signal relational closeness with gifts that demonstrate their knowledge of the recipient. Five studies in a gift registry context show that when close (vs. distant) givers receive attribution for the gifts they choose, they are more likely to diverge from the registry to choose items that signal their close relationships. The authors find that close givers’ divergence from the registry is not the result of their altruistic search for a “better” gift but is a strategic effort to express relational signals: it occurs only when givers will receive attribution for their choice. They show that close givers reconcile their goal conflict by engaging in motivated reasoning, which results in their perceptual distortion of the gift options in favor of relational-signaling gifts. Ironically, distant givers are more likely to choose gifts from the registry, resulting in the selection of items that better match recipient preferences.
Design of Search Engine Services: Channel Interdependence in Search Engine Results
Authors: Edelman Benjamin , Lai Zhenyu
Published: March 2016

The authors examine prominent placement of search engines’ own services and effects on users’ choices. Evaluating a natural experiment in which different results were shown to users who performed similar searches, they find that Google's prominent placement of its Flight Search service increased the clicks on paid advertising listings by more than half while decreasing the clicks on organic search listings by about the same quantity. This effect appears to result from interactions between the design of search results and users’ decisions about where and how to focus their attention: users who decide what to click on the basis of relevance were more likely to select paid listings, whereas users who are influenced by visual presentation and page position were more likely to click on Google's own Flight Search listing. The authors consider implications of these findings for competition policy and for online marketing strategies.
Compactness of Minimizing Sequences in Nonlinear Schrödinger Systems Under Multiconstraint Conditions
Authors: Ikoma Norihisa
Published: March 2016

In this paper, the precompactness of minimizing sequences under multiconstraint conditions are discussed. This minimizing problem is related to a coupled nonlinear Schrödinger system which appears in the field of nonlinear optics. As a consequence of the compactness of each minimizing sequence, the orbital stability of the set of all minimizers is obtained.
Existence and Asymptotic Behavior for Solutions to Boundary Blow-up Elliptic Problems
Authors: Rhouma N. Belhaj , Drissi A.
Published: March 2016

This paper deals with the existence of solutions to the elliptic equation Δu = k(x) f (u) in D satisfying the boundary blow-up condition u|∂D = ∞, where D ⊂ ℝN is an open bounded domain with smooth boundary ∂D. Under suitable assumptions on k and f , we show the existence of at least one solution u. Under additional hypotheses on k, we give asymptotic estimate for u near the boundary.
Positive Solutions for BVPs with One-dimensional Mean Curvature Operator
Authors: Ó João Marcos do , Orpel Aleksandra
Published: March 2016

We discuss the existence and properties of solutions for systems of Dirichlet problems involving one dimensional mean curvature operator. Our approach is based on variational methods and covers both sublinear and superlinear cases of nonlinearities. We also investigate the continuous (in some sense) dependence of solutions on functional parameters.
The Dirichlet Problem with Mean Curvature Operator in Minkowski Space – a Variational Approach
Authors: Bereanu C. , Jebelean P. , Mawhin J.
Published: March 2016

In this paper we consider the Dirichlet problem with mean curvature operator in Minkowski space :

where Ω ⊂ ℝN is a smooth open bounded set and f : Ω × ℝ → ℝ is a Carathéodory function. We show that u is a solution of the above problem iff it is a critical point of the corresponding non-smooth action functional. Applications concerning nontrivial solutions for a class of such Dirichet problems depending on a parameter are provided.
Existence of Strictly Positive Solutions for Sublinear Elliptic Problems in Bounded Domains
Authors: Godoy T. , Kaufmann U.
Published: March 2016

Let Ω be a smooth bounded domain in RN and let m be a possibly discontinuous and unbounded function that changes sign in Ω. Let f : [0,∞) → [0,∞) be a nondecreasing continuous function such that k1ξp ≤ f (ξ) ≤ k2ξp for all ξ ≥ 0 and some k1, k2 > 0 and p ∈ (0, 1). We study existence and nonexistence of strictly positive solutions for nonlinear elliptic problems of the form −Δu = m(x) f (u) in Ω, u = 0 on ∂Ω.
Complete Orbits for Twist Maps with Exponential Generating Functions
Authors: Liu Qihuai , Guo Yishuang , Tang Hongwu
Published: March 2016

In this paper twist symplectic maps with non-periodicity are considered, where the associated generating functions grow exponentially. Under appropriate assumptions the existence of infinitely many bounded complete orbits is established. An application to Toda-like type lattices may help us to explain our results.
Topological Methods for Boundary Mean Curvature Problem on Bn
Authors: Al-Ghamdi Mohammed Ali , Chtioui Hichem , Sharaf Khadijah
Published: March 2016

Using an algebraic topological method and the tools of the theory of the critical points at infinity, we provide a variety of classes of functions that can be realized as the mean curvature on the boundary of the the n-dimensional balls.
Fourth-order Elliptic Equations
Authors: Harrabi A.
Published: March 2016

We prove an existence result for a fourth order elliptic equation where the associated functional does not satisfy the Palais-Smale condition. We use some truncations argument and L∞-norm estimates.
A Multiplicity Theorem for p-Superlinear Neumann Problems with a Nonhomogeneous Differential Operator
Authors: Barletta Giuseppina , Papageorgiou Nikolaos S.
Published: March 2016

We consider a nonlinear Neumann problem driven by a nonhomogeneous differential operator (special case is the p-Laplacian) with a (p − 1)-superlinear Carathéodory reaction term, which need not satisfy the usual in such cases Ambrosetti-Rabinowitz condition. Using variational methods based on the critical point theory coupled with suitable truncation techniques, we show that the problem has at least five nontrivial smooth solutions.
Existence of a Ground State Solution for a Quasilinear Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Fang Xiang-dong , Han Zhi-qing
Published: March 2016

In this paper we are concerned with the quasilinear Schrödinger equation

−Δu + V(x)u − Δ(u2)u = q(x)|u|p−2u, x ∈ ℝN,

where N ≥ 3, 4 < p < 4N/(N − 2), and V(x) and q(x) go to some positive limits V∞ and q∞ respectively as |x| → ∞. Under a weak one-sided asymptotic estimate for V(x) and q(x) at infinity, we obtain the existence of a ground state solution.
The limiting Behavior of Solutions to Inhomogeneous Eigenvalue Problems in Orlicz-Sobolev Spaces
Authors: Bocea Marian , Mihăilescu Mihai , Stancu-Dumitru Denisa
Published: March 2016

The asymptotic behavior of the sequence {un} of positive first eigenfunctions for a class of inhomogeneous eigenvalue problems is studied in the setting of Orlicz-Sobolev spaces. After possibly extracting a subsequence, we prove that un → u∞ uniformly in Ω as n→∞, where u∞ is a nontrivial viscosity solution of a nonlinear PDE involving the ∞-Laplacian.
On the Existence of Boundary Blow-up Solutions for a General Class of Quasilinear Elliptic Systems
Authors: Ben Othman Sonia , Chemmam Rym , Sauvy Paul
Published: March 2016

In this paper, we investigate the following quasilinear elliptic system (P) with explosive boundary conditions:

Δpu = f1(x, u, v) in Ω; u|∂Ω = +∞, u >0 in Ω,

Δqv = f2(x, u, v) in Ω; v|∂Ω = +∞, v >0 in Ω,

where Ω is a smooth bounded domain of ℝN, N ≥ 2, 1 < p, q < +∞ and f1, f2 are two Carathéodory functions in Ω × (ℝ+* × ∗ ℝ+*). Under rather general conditions on f1 and f2 and assuming the existence of a sub and supersolutions pair, we prove the existence of a large solution to (P) by a fixed point approach. Then, we apply this result considering particular systems arising in Biology.
Least Energy Solutions for Nonlinear Schrödinger Systems with Mixed Attractive and Repulsive Couplings
Authors: Sato Yohei , Wang Zhi-Qiang
Published: March 2016

In this paper we study the ground state solutions for a nonlinear elliptic system of three equations which comes from models in Bose-Einstein condensates. Comparing with existing works in the literature which have been on purely attractive or purely repulsive cases, our investigation focuses on the effect of mixed interaction of attractive and repulsive couplings. We establish the existence of least energy positive solutions and study asymptotic profile of the ground state solutions, giving indication of co-existence of synchronization and segregation. In particular we show symmetry breaking for the ground state solutions.