bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Globalization, Land Grabbing, and the Present-Day Colonial State in Uganda
Authors: Carmody Pádraig , Taylor David
Published: January 2016

Much has been written recently about the nature, drivers, and impacts of large-scale land acquisitions or “grabbing” in Africa. We argue that current land grabs are a product of ecological scarcity and the opportunities this presents for accumulation and logics of state building. In effect, land grabs represent a reinscription and deepening of sociospatial power inequalities associated with previous eras. Together we term these combined processes ecolonization, as discourses of climate change mitigation and food and energy security facilitate continued and deepening domination of ecological space by domestic political elites and transnational investors, through the United Nations’ Reduction of Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation and enhance forest carbon stocks projects, for example. The new internal frontiers opened up by processes of capital accumulation are, in turn, fundamental to the reproduction and strengthening of colonial African state formations. Land dispossession thus serves hybrid economic accumulation and political logics across different scales and temporalities. The ways in which these processes are empirically expressed is explored through two case studies from Uganda.
A Framework for Reducing Global Manufacturing Emissions
Authors: Gurtu Amulya , Searcy Cory , Jaber Mohamad Y.
Published: January 2016

This article establishes outsourcing as a cause of increase in global emissions, presents an original framework to account for greenhouse gas emissions from outsourcing, and recommends a carbon tax on differential emissions between importing and exporting countries. The impact of the carbon tax is shown through examples illustrating the potential financial implications for nations (i.e., the United States, Germany, and China) and an organization heavily engaged in sourcing from energy inefficient nations (i.e., Walmart). The framework provides a basis for developing government policy and assisting corporations in choosing environmentally friendly destinations. The motivation for the research is that current emissions accounting practices are based on places of generation, which provides an incomplete accounting of a nation’s emissions inventories and does not provide organizations with insight into the environmental impacts of their offshore operations. The proposed model is transparent, scalable, and relatively simple to implement. The model can provide a basis for improved national policies that will encourage corporations to choose energy-efficient destinations for offshore outsourcing and to help reduce global greenhouse gas emissions.
The Extended Mirror Neuron Network
Authors: Bonini Luca
Published: January 2016

Mirror neurons (MNs) are a fascinating class of cells originally discovered in the ventral premotor cortex (PMv) and, subsequently, in the inferior parietal lobule (IPL) of the macaque, which become active during both the execution and observation of actions. In this review, I will first highlight the mounting evidence indicating that mirroring others’ actions engages a broad system of reciprocally connected cortical areas, which extends well beyond the classical IPL-PMv circuit and might even include subcortical regions such as the basal ganglia. Then, I will present the most recent findings supporting the idea that the observation of one’s own actions, which might play a role in the ontogenetic origin and tuning of MNs, retains a particular relevance within the adult MN system. Finally, I will propose that both cortical and subcortical mechanisms do exist to decouple MN activity from the motor output, in order to render it exploitable for high-order perceptual, cognitive, and even social functions. The findings reviewed here provide an original framework for envisaging the main challenges and experimental directions of future neurophysiological and neuroanatomical studies of the monkey MN system.
A Randomized Implementation Study of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Adjudicated Teens in Residential Treatment Facilities
Authors: Cohen Judith A. , Mannarino Anthony P. , Jankowski Kay , Rosenberg Stanley , Kodya Suzanne , Wolford George L.
Published: January 2016

Adjudicated youth in residential treatment facilities (RTFs) have high rates of trauma exposure and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study evaluated strategies for implementing trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) in RTF. Therapists ( N = 129) treating adjudicated youth were randomized by RTF program ( N = 18) to receive one of the two TF-CBT implementation strategies: (1) web-based TF-CBT training + consultation (W) or (2) W + 2 day live TF-CBT workshop + twice monthly phone consultation (W + L). Youth trauma screening and PTSD symptoms were assessed via online dashboard data entry using the University of California at Los Angeles PTSD Reaction Index. Youth depressive symptoms were assessed with the Mood and Feelings Questionnaire–Short Version. Outcomes were therapist screening; TF-CBT engagement, completion, and fidelity; and youth improvement in PTSD and depressive symptoms. The W + L condition resulted in significantly more therapists conducting trauma screening ( p = .0005), completing treatment ( p = .03), and completing TF-CBT with fidelity ( p = .001) than the W condition. Therapist licensure significantly impacted several outcomes. Adjudicated RTF youth receiving TF-CBT across conditions experienced statistically and clinically significant improvement in PTSD ( p = .001) and depressive ( p = .018) symptoms. W + L is generally superior to W for implementing TF-CBT in RTF. TF-CBT is effective for improving trauma-related symptoms in adjudicated RTF youth. Implementation barriers are discussed.
Increased Risk of Mortality Due to Interpersonal Violence in Foreign-Born Women of Reproductive Age
Authors: Fernbrant Cecilia , Essén Birgitta , Esscher Annika , Östergren Per-Olof , Cantor-Graae Elizabeth
Published: January 2016

Violence against women is an increasing public health concern, with assault leading to death as the most extreme outcome. Previous findings indicate that foreign-born women living in Sweden are more exposed to interpersonal violence than Swedish-born women. The current study investigates mortality due to interpersonal violence in comparison with other external causes of death among women of reproductive age in Sweden, with focus on country of birth. Foreign-born women and especially those from countries with low and very low gender equity levels had increased risk of mortality due to interpersonal violence, thus implicating lack of empowerment as a contributing factor.
The Effect of Event Supportive Service Environment and Authenticity in the Quality–Value–Satisfaction Framework
Authors: Wong IpKin Anthony , Ji Mingjie , Liu Matthew Tingchi
Published: January 2016

This study draws on environmental psychological theory to reintegrate the ongoing development of “environmental” cues in the tourism event context. Existing service perception scales often commingle service quality and physical cues; thus, this study proposes their separation and redefinition, as well as tests the effect of the supportive service environment on festival program quality in the experience of participants. The moderating effect of perceived authenticity in the quality–value–satisfaction process is also investigated. The results challenge the traditional view of program quality by highlighting that the service environment is a key antecedent to the quality–value–satisfaction framework. In contrast, the relationships among service environment, program quality, perceived value, and customer satisfaction are contingent on the extent to which participants perceive the authenticity of an event.
Multiple Masculinities
Authors: Smirnova Michelle
Published: January 2016

This article explores expressions of Russian masculinity in the Russian anekdot—a short humorous (and at times politically subversive) narrative that was highly popular during the late-Soviet era. Although anekdots challenged the legitimacy of Soviet power and highlighted inconsistences between propaganda and reality, they utilize and therefore reinforce categories and concepts of the very social system they contest. In conducting a paired content and discourse analysis of 1,290 Soviet-era Russian anekdots, this article demonstrates how this genre both (1) reveals a crisis in Soviet-era Russian masculinity and (2) contributes to a hierarchy of cultural citizenship established through the definition of particular racial, national, and gendered groups as “other.” In doing so, the focus is not only on the objects of the jokes, individuals or groups that are scrutinized and ridiculed, but also on the subjects of the joke and the joke tellers themselves. This project demonstrates how Russian men are distinguished from Russian women as well as ethnic and national others through discourses of masculinity, femininity, and sexuality.
The Dynamics of Male and Female Street Prostitution in Manchester, England
Authors: Ellison Graham , Weitzer Ronald
Published: January 2016

This article examines male street prostitution in Manchester, England, and draws some comparisons to its female counterpart in this city. While the two sectors have some important similarities, we also find significant differences in the physical and social ecology of the places in which they work, in their behavior patterns, and in individuals’ demographics and work experiences. We find that ecological differences between the male and female markets have a major impact on participants’ work practices, opportunities, and integration into the local community. The data also indicate that it is incorrect to speak of a monolithic male street market or sector in Manchester because sellers shift between settings (street, bar, and escorting), unlike the female street sector. We also find that the males demonstrate more diversity in their repertoires for earning money. The findings have implications for local government policy and for outreach workers who work with these populations.
Topical Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) Accelerates Skin Wound Healing in Rats and Activates GPR120
Authors: Arantes Eva L. , Dragano Nathalia , Ramalho Albina , Vitorino Daniele , de-Souza Gabriela F. , Lima Maria H. M. , Velloso Licio A. , Araújo Eliana P.
Published: January 2016

Background:

The development of methods for improving skin wound healing may have an impact on the outcomes of a number of medical conditions. The topical use of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can accelerate skin wound healing through mechanisms that involve, at least in part, the modulation of inflammatory activity.

Purpose:

We evaluated whether G-protein-coupled receptor 120 (GPR120), a recently identified receptor for docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) with anti-inflammatory activity, is expressed in the skin and responds to topical DHA.

Method:

Male Wistar rats were submitted to an 8.0-mm wound on the back and were immediately administered a topical treatment of a solution containing 30 μM of DHA once a day. The healing process was photodocumented, and tissues were collected on Days 5, 9, and 15 for protein and RNA analyses and histological evaluation.

Results:

GPR120 was expressed in the intact skin and in the wound. Keratinocytes expressed the most skin GPR120, while virtually no expression was detected in fibroblasts. Upon DHA topical treatment, wound healing was significantly accelerated and was accompanied by the molecular activation of GPR120, as determined by its association with β-arrestin-2. In addition, DHA promoted a reduction in the expression of interleukin (IL) 1β and an increase in the expression of IL-6. Furthermore, there was a significant increase in expression of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and the keratinocyte marker involucrin.

Discussion:

Topical DHA improved skin wound healing. The activation of GPR120 is potentially involved in this process.
Determination of optimum configuration among different configurations of two-axial groove hydrodynamic bearings
Authors: Joy Nithin M , Roy Lintu
Published: January 2016

A steady-state hydrodynamic analysis of two-axial groove oil journal bearing is investigated in this paper. A computer program is developed to calculate the steady-state hydrodynamic characteristics. To study the various steady-state hydrodynamic characteristics of oil journal bearing, the nondimensional Reynolds’ equation is solved to obtain nondimensional values of load-carrying capacity, flow rate, attitude angle, and friction variable. Nature of design parameters for different groove configurations is studied and using genetic algorithm, an optimized groove location is obtained for two-axial grooved bearing. It has been found that placing the groove on different locations have greater influence on the design parameters such as nondimensional oil flow rate, frictional variable, and nondimensional load-carrying capacity. From numerical simulation of two-axial groove bearing it has been found that the frictional variable and nondimensional load-carrying capacity is better for up–horizontal configuration and flow rate shows a maximum value for some up–up configuration.
The knowledge-based reasoning of physical education teachers
Authors: Reuker Sabine
Published: January 2016

The study addresses professional vision, including the abilities of selective attention and knowledge-based reasoning. This article focuses on the latter ability. Groups with different sport-specific and pedagogical expertise ( n = 60) were compared according to their observation and interpretation of sport activities in a four-field design. The first group (novice) was composed of student teachers who had their university studies and who were characterised by low sport-specific and low pedagogical expertise. The second group (athlete) comprised athletes with high sport-specific expertise determined by league affiliation. The third group (teacher) included teachers with high pedagogical expertise based on teaching experience and further pedagogical criteria. The fourth group (expert) consisted of teachers with high pedagogical expertise, who, in addition, played and coached basketball at a high level (high sport-specific expertise). Observational data were obtained from physical education classes. The participants’ comments were recorded in a guided interview and analysed based on qualitative content analysis. The results were exported for further statistical analysis. The findings reveal general and specific differences in knowledge-based reasoning and identify different types of knowledge and beliefs used in this process. The implications for physical education teacher education programmes using video-supported reflection are discussed in light of the results.
A longitudinal analysis of students’ autobiographical memories of participation in multiple Sport Education seasons
Authors: Wahl-Alexander Zachary , Sinelnikov Oleg , Curtner-Smith Matthew
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this study was to examine middle school students’ recollections of their participation in a significant number of Sport Education seasons over a period of five years.

Thirty-one (18 boys and 13 girls) eighth-grade students (average age at data collection = 13 years) who had all participated in at least 17 Sport Education seasons served as the participants in this study. Autobiographical memory theory guided qualitative data collection, which included surveys, formal interviews, focus group interviews, and autobiographical critical reflections. Student responses were categorized into general events, which had a focus on evaluating, preparation, first season, integrity, competition, and gamesmanship. Descriptive event-specific memories included authenticity and gameplay as most memorable aspects of students’ experiences within multiple Sport Education seasons. The findings suggested that participating in multiple Sport Education seasons leads to better developed student roles and a stronger sense of fair play. More importantly, adherence to the central features of Sport Education and meaningful participation in several iterations of quality Sport Education seasons may be required for students to move closer to achieving the lofty goals of the model for students to become competent, literate, and enthusiastic sportspeople.
Cross-linguistic differences affect late Chinese-English learners on-line processing of English tense and aspect
Authors: Yao Panpan , Chen Baoguo
Published: January 2016

Aims:

The present study aimed to explore how varied cross-linguistic differences affect late Chinese-English learners’ on-line processing of tense and aspect in English.

Methodology:

We used the self-paced reading task (Experiment 1) and the eye-tracking technique (Experiment 2) to test the above question.

Data and analysis:

Reading times in Experiment 1 and first-fixation duration, and gaze time in Experiment 2 in four interested positions were analysed in R by ANOVAs and t-tests.

Findings:

Both high- and low-proficiency participants showed their sensitivity to the violation of progressive, which is nearly congruent between English and Chinese. Only high-proficiency participants were sensitive to the violation of past tense, which is similar but not congruent between Chinese and English. With regard to present third person singular, which is incongruent between Chinese and English, high-proficiency participants also showed their sensitivity to its violation; however, this sensitivity is only detected by the eye-tracking method (Experiment 2). These results suggested that cross-linguistic differences affect late second language learners’ on-line processing of English tense and aspect.

Originality:

To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first one exploring varied cross-linguistic differences’ influence on late Chinese-English learners’ on-line processing of tense and aspect in English.

Significance:

Our results provide new evidence to support the Performance Deficit Account.
Radon and its decay products in an air-conditioned auditorium in correlation with indoor air parameters
Authors: Polednik Bernard , Kozak Krzysztof , Mazur Jadwiga , Dudzińska Marzenna , Grządziel Dominik
Published: January 2016

The measurements of radon and its attached decay product activity concentrations were carried out in an occupied and unoccupied auditorium during three air-conditioning modes i.e. air-conditioning system switched off (air-conditioning off), air-conditioning system switched off during the night and switched on during the day (air-conditioning on/off) and air-conditioning system switched on (air-conditioning on). Higher average concentrations of radon and its decay products were recorded in the auditorium when the air-conditioning system was switched off. The average particle mass and CO2 concentrations and indoor air thermal parameters were elevated during the air-conditioning on/off mode. A statistically significant ( p < 0.001) positive correlation between the decay product concentrations and the particle number and average particle mass concentrations has been observed in the air-conditioning off mode ( r = 0.55 and r = 0.68) and in the air-conditioning on/off mode ( r = 0.54 and r = 0.62, respectively). A significant negative correlation has been observed between the decay product concentrations and the indoor air temperature and CO2 concentrations in the air-conditioning off mode ( r = −0.86 and r = −0.47, respectively). The obtained results confirmed the impact of the air-conditioning system operation on the decrease of health risks related to the presence of radon and its decay products in air conditioned premises.
Assessing the green potential of existing buildings towards smart cities and districts
Authors: Capeluto Isaac G. , Ben-Avraham Oren
Published: January 2016

Buildings represent about 40% of the total primary energy consumption and contribute approximately to one-third of the total greenhouse gas emissions. Green building standards and certification systems include requirements for both new and existing buildings. However, a vast part of the existing building stock in cities was built with limited consideration for green design, energy efficiency and low carbon emissions, yet its refurbishment can help reach national energy reduction goals, decreasing environmental impact. Furthermore, retrofitting existing buildings can often be more cost-effective than building new facilities. The potential of an existing building to achieve certification under a certain Green Standard, defined in this work as its Green Potential (GP), depends heavily on factors that were determined during the original design and construction process. This paper will present the development of a method and tool for the analysis and determination of the GP of existing buildings, allowing quick evaluation of a single building or the comparison of different buildings in order to understand their potential and limitations, both by designers before their intervention or by planning authorities as ways of determining development plans and retrofitting potential in cities and districts.
Simplified estimation method of bearing friction for engines
Authors: Ozasa Toshihiro , Maitani Kazuyuki , Fujimoto Yuuya , Yorizane Kouichi
Published: January 2016

Many journal bearings exist in an engine. Therefore, the effects of operation and design parameters of a journal bearing on power loss are the important information. In this study, simplified estimation method of bearing friction is proposed by means of a regression equation. Dimensional analysis on friction of a journal bearing is performed for the operation and design parameters using hydrodynamic lubrication under steady load. Based on the dimensional analysis, the effect of the parameters is evaluated and the regression equation is proposed. The regression equation is fitted for two cases; one is based on calculated frictions with hydrodynamic lubrication under steady load and the other is based on experimental frictions obtained using a bearing test apparatus. In the bearing test apparatus, a rotor is supported by a pair of test journal bearings and friction torque of the test journal bearings is measured based on angular deceleration of the rotor. Power loss of journal bearing is numerically calculated with hydrodynamic lubrication under dynamic load of an engine and it is compared with the power losses estimated with the regression equations. Finally, the suitability for the simplified estimation method is discussed.
Time-Varying Effects of Academic and Social Integration on Student Persistence for First and Second Years in College
Authors: Ishitani Terry T.
Published: January 2016

While a myriad of studies focused on the first-year student retention, less known is what happens to students during their second year in college. Coupled with the most recent national data, this study investigated the effects of student and institutional characteristics on first- and second-year student persistence behavior. In particular, this study examined time-varying effects of certain factors, such as academic and social integration on student retention. The study data included 7,571 first-time freshman students enrolled in public and private 4-year institutions. Using multilevel logistic regression, study findings suggest that academic integration was only effective to retaining students for the first year and was ineffective to promote second-year student persistence.
Teachers’ and Students’ Views of Reading Fluency
Authors: Deeney Theresa A. , Shim Minsuk K.
Published: January 2016

In this article, we present results of a survey designed to understand teachers’ ( n = 77) and students’ ( n = 875) perceptions of purported negative consequences of using one-minute oral reading fluency (ORF) measures such as the Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS) ORF assessment and the aimsweb Reading CBM ( R-CBM). Specifically, we investigated whether teachers and students in two districts that use these ORF measures support that use of ORF measures relates to teaching to ORF tests, increased pressure and anxiety for teachers and students, and misuse of ORF measures and results. We provide detailed results across teachers and students, and implications for practice.
Predictive Utility and Classification Accuracy of Oral Reading Fluency and the Measures of Academic Progress for the Wisconsin Knowledge and Concepts Exam
Authors: Ball Carrie R. , O’Connor Edward
Published: January 2016

This study examined the predictive validity and classification accuracy of two commonly used universal screening measures relative to a statewide achievement test. Results indicated that second-grade performance on oral reading fluency and the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP), together with special education status, explained 68% of the variance in third-grade standardized test performance ( N = 399). Six methods of dichotomous risk classification were also explored to predict whether students would pass or fail the state test. A random sample of half of the participants was used to establish locally appropriate risk cut-scores, holding sensitivity constant at .95; the cut-scores were then cross-validated on the remaining participants. Cross-validation reflected sensitivity of above .90 for all methods, with MAP Language Usage and two multi-screener methods demonstrating the strongest overall technical adequacy for risk classification. The limitations and implications of these findings are discussed.
Effects of Pain and Pain Management on Motor Recovery of Spinal Cord–Injured Patients
Authors: Cragg Jacquelyn J. , Haefeli Jenny , Jutzeler Catherine R. , Röhrich Frank , Weidner Norbert , Saur Marion , Maier Doris D. , Kalke Yorck B. , Schuld Christian , Curt Armin , Kramer John K.
Published: January 2016

Background. Approximately 60% of patients suffering from acute spinal cord injury (SCI) develop pain within days to weeks after injury, which ultimately persists into chronic stages. To date, the consequences of pain after SCI have been largely examined in terms of interfering with quality of life. Objective. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of pain and pain management on neurological recovery after SCI. Methods. We analyzed clinical data in a prospective multicenter observational cohort study in patients with SCI. Using mixed effects regression techniques, total motor and sensory scores were modelled at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postinjury. Results. A total of 225 individuals were included in the study (mean age: 45.8 ± 18 years, 80% male). At 1 month postinjury, 28% of individuals with SCI reported at- or below-level neuropathic pain. While pain classification showed no effect on neurological outcomes, individuals administered anticonvulsant medications at 1 month postinjury showed significant reductions in pain intensity (2 points over 1 year; P < .05) and greater recovery in total motor scores (7.3 points over 1 year; P < .05). This drug effect on motor recovery remained significant after adjustment for injury level and injury severity, pain classification, and pain intensity. Conclusion. While initial pain classification and intensity did not reveal an effect on motor recovery following acute SCI, anticonvulsants conferred a significant beneficial effect on motor outcomes. Early intervention with anticonvulsants may have effects beyond pain management and warrant further studies to evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness in human SCI.
Upper Limb Rehabilitation in People With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Lamers Ilse , Maris Anneleen , Severijns Deborah , Dielkens Wouter , Geurts Sander , Van Wijmeersch Bart , Feys Peter
Published: January 2016

Background. There has been an increasing research interest in upper limb rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis (MS). The current changes in the research field inquire a new literature review. Objective. This systematic review aimed to provide an overview of the upper limb rehabilitation strategies in people with MS (PwMS). Methods. Articles published in PubMed and Web of Knowledge were selected when written in English, published in the past 25 years, peer reviewed, that included at least 5 PwMS, and described the effects of an intervention study including rehabilitation strategies targeting the upper limbs. Included articles were screened based on title/abstract and full text by 2 independent reviewers. Results. Thirty articles met the criteria and were included for data extraction. Only half of the included studies investigated the effects of a training program specially targeted toward the upper limbs, while in the other studies, a general whole body therapy was used. The therapy content and dosage varied greatly between the different included studies. Multidisciplinary and robot-based rehabilitation were the most investigated rehabilitation strategies and showed to improve upper limb capacity. Strength and endurance training improved the upper limb body functions and structures but did not influence the upper limb capacity and performance. Conclusions. The results of this systematic review indicated that different types of upper limb rehabilitation strategies can improve upper limb function in PwMS. Further research is necessary to compare directly the effects of different rehabilitation strategies and to investigate the optimal therapy dosage according to the upper limb disability level.
Mixing Interviews and Rasch Modeling: Demonstrating a Procedure Used to Develop an Instrument That Measures Trust
Authors: David Shannon L. , Hitchcock John H. , Ragan Brian , Brooks Gordon , Starkey Chad
Published: January 2016

Developing psychometrically sound instruments can be difficult, especially if little is known about the constructs of interest. When constructs of interest are unclear, a mixed methods approach can be useful. Qualitative inquiry can be used to explore a construct’s meaning in a way that informs item writing and allows the strengths of one analysis method to compensate for the weaknesses of the other. Mixing method applications can be complex, however, there are few examples within the literature pertaining to the mix of interviews, Rasch modeling, and classical test theory. This article demonstrates how to mix qualitative inquiry with Rasch modeling (and classical test theory) in order to develop an instrument that measures a complex construct: patient trust.
Effects of Extreme Dilutions of Apis mellifica Preparations on Gene Expression Profiles of Human Cells
Authors: Bigagli Elisabetta , Luceri Cristina , Dei Andrea , Bernardini Simonetta , Dolara Piero
Published: January 2016

Gene expression analysis has been employed in the past to test the effects of high dilutions on cell systems. However, most of the previous studies were restricted to the investigation of few dilutions, making it difficult to explore underlying mechanisms of action. Using whole-genome transcriptomic analysis, we investigated the effects of a wide range of Apis mellifica dilutions on gene expression profiles of human cells. RWPE-1 cells, a nonneoplastic adult human epithelial prostate cell line, were exposed to Apis mellifica preparations (3C, 5C, 7C, 9C, 12C, 15C, and 30C) or to the reference solvent solutions for 24 hours; nonexposed cells were also checked for gene expression variations. Our results showed that even the most diluted solutions retained the ability to trigger significant variations in gene expression. Gene pathway analysis revealed consistent variations in gene expression induced by Apis mellifica when compared to nonexposed reference cells but not to reference solvent solutions. Since the effects of Apis Mellifica at extreme dilutions did not show dose–effect relationships, the biological or functional interpretation of these results remains uncertain.
Selection for optimal exit ramp type on Florida’s freeways based on operational analysis
Authors: Wang Chen , Lu Linjun , Lu Jian , Wang Tao
Published: January 2016

In the State of Florida, several types of exit ramps are used, including single-lane exit ramp with a taper, single-lane exit ramp without a taper, two-lane exit ramp with an optional lane, and two-lane exit ramp without an optional lane. Drivers exiting freeways need to make maneuver decisions (lane change, lane merge, and decelerate) prior to exit ramps in order to access cross roads at interchanges. Different exit ramp types lead to varying driving maneuvers when exiting, affecting the operational and safety performance on freeways. Based on the facts, there are several issues that need to be addressed in selecting the most optimum types of freeway exit ramps. This article mainly focuses on the comparison of operational performances of different ramp types and tries to present a method for choosing the optimal one. A data collection of 24 sites in Florida were conducted, and traffic simulations by Traffic Software Integrated System: Corridor Simulation were employed. Mathematical models were built to evaluate impacts of these ramps based on simulations. And an analytical hierarchy process method was applied to assign significance weight for all selected measures of effectiveness in terms of Florida questionnaire. Finally, an aggregate numerical evaluation was provided according to calculated data.
Deterministic and multi-scenario models for pallet allocation over a pallet pool in a city joint distribution system
Authors: Wu Jun , Ren Jianwei , Liu Bo , Lu Tianwei
Published: January 2016

Pallet pooling is a basis for the operation of a city joint distribution system. Pallet allocation is a key problem for the success of a pallet pool. This article considers a multi-station, multi-period, and multi-type pallet allocation problem over a pallet pool in a city joint distribution system. First of all, we develop a deterministic model to optimally allocate pallets when managers have perfect knowledge of the information that will be available. By case studies, we show that this model can help managers to make scientific decisions. The influence of transportation capacity on decisions is shown by numerical simulation. And we propose managers should use both demand forecasting and leasing and renting tactics to minimization allocation cost. Then, we propose a multi-scenario model to optimally allocate pallets when some uncertain parameters cannot be estimated through historical data. The application of this multi-scenario model is also illustrated.
The detections of retinopathy symptoms and tractional retinal detachment
Authors: Hung Yi-Wen , Hsieh Ming-Yuan , Wang Ching-Lin , Yu Shyr-Shen , Chan Yung-Kuan , Tsai Meng-Feng , Chen Jui-Ming , Tung Kwong-Chung
Published: January 2016

Since the symptoms of the diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and many other eye diseases are often associated with the bright spots, dark spots, and vascular abnormalities in retinal images, this study proposes a retinopathy image segmentation (system) to extract the bright spots, dark spots, and blood vessels from retinal images. Moreover, since a high proportion of diabetic patients suffer from the diabetic retinopathy with the most severe one to be the retinal detachment, the retinal image-based tractional retinal detachment diagnosis system is proposed, as well. Two genetic-based parameter detectors are given to provide the most appropriate values for the parameters used by the retinopathy image segmentation system and the tractional retinal detachment diagnosis system. The experimental results illustrate that the retinopathy image segmentation system and the tractional retinal detachment diagnosis system can provide expressive results in segmenting bright spots, dark spots, blood vessels, and in diagnosing tractional retinal detachment. Both systems are helpful for the ophthalmologists in diagnosing eye diseases.
Quantized flocking control for second-order multiple agents with obstacle avoidance
Authors: Li Chunguang , Tao Chongben , Liu Guodong , Xie Guangqian
Published: January 2016

A quantized flocking control for a group of second-order multiple agents with obstacle avoidance is proposed to address the problem of the exchange of information needed for quantification. With a reasonable assumption, a logarithmic or uniform quantizer is used for the exchange of relative position and velocity information between adjacent agents and the virtual leader, moving at a steady speed along a straight line, and a distributed flocking algorithm with obstacle avoidance capability is designed based on the quantitative information. The Lyapunov stability criterion of nonsmooth systems and the invariance principle are used to prove the stability of these systems. The simulations and experiments are presented to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Modeling bidding decision in engineering field with incomplete information: A static game–based approach
Authors: Huang Zhi-xing
Published: January 2016

Corporate investment decision about engineering projects is a key issue for project management. This article aims to study the process of bidding decision-making in engineering field under the condition of incomplete information and investigating the influence of bidders’ game behaviors on investment decision. With reasonable assumed scenes, this article uses an approach to describe the decision process for bidding. The approach is based on the static game theory. With the proposed model, the effectiveness of game participants and the objective function are put forward, and the characteristics of price quotation and the best strategies of bidders under the equilibrium condition are discussed. The results can give a better understanding of investment decision in engineering management and are helpful for tenderees to avoid excessive competition among bidders.
Improved probabilistic neural networks with self-adaptive strategies for transformer fault diagnosis problem
Authors: Yi Jiao-Hong , Wang Jian , Wang Gai-Ge
Published: January 2016

Probabilistic neural network has successfully solved all kinds of engineering problems in various fields since it is proposed. In probabilistic neural network, Spread has great influence on its performance, and probabilistic neural network will generate bad prediction results if it is improperly selected. It is difficult to select the optimal manually. In this article, a variant of probabilistic neural network with self-adaptive strategy, called self-adaptive probabilistic neural network, is proposed. In self-adaptive probabilistic neural network, Spread can be self-adaptively adjusted and selected and then the best selected Spread is used to guide the self-adaptive probabilistic neural network train and test. In addition, two simplified strategies are incorporated into the proposed self-adaptive probabilistic neural network with the aim of further improving its performance and then two versions of simplified self-adaptive probabilistic neural network (simplified self-adaptive probabilistic neural networks 1 and 2) are proposed. The variants of self-adaptive probabilistic neural networks are further applied to solve the transformer fault diagnosis problem. By comparing them with basic probabilistic neural network, and the traditional back propagation, extreme learning machine, general regression neural network, and self-adaptive extreme learning machine, the results have experimentally proven that self-adaptive probabilistic neural networks have a more accurate prediction and better generalization performance when addressing the transformer fault diagnosis problem.
Empirical study of travel mode forecasting improvement for the combined revealed preference/stated preference data–based discrete choice model
Authors: Qiao Yanfu , Huang Yihui , Yang Fei , Zhang Miao , Chen Lin
Published: January 2016

The combined revealed preference/stated preference data–based discrete choice model has provided the actual choice-making restraints as well as reduced the prediction errors. But the random error variance of alternatives belonging to different data would impact its universality. In this article, we studied the traffic corridor between Chengdu and Longquan with the revealed preference/stated preference joint model, and the single stated preference data model separately predicted the choice probability of each mode. We found the revealed preference/stated preference joint model is universal only when there is a significant difference between the random error terms in different data. The single stated preference data would amplify the travelers’ preference and cause prediction error. We proposed a universal way that uses revealed preference data to modify the single stated preference data parameter estimation results to achieve the composite utility and reduce the prediction error. And the result suggests that prediction results are more reasonable based on the composite utility than the results based on the single stated preference data, especially forecasting the mode share of bus. The future metro line will be the main travel mode in this corridor, and 45% of passenger flow will transfer to the metro.
Research of fuel temperature control in fuel pipeline of diesel engine using positive temperature coefficient material
Authors: Li Xiaolu , Sun Zai , Gu Lefeng , Han Jianqiang , Wang Jun , Wu Shanqiang
Published: January 2016

As fuel temperature increases, both its viscosity and surface tension decrease, and this is helpful to improve fuel atomization and then better combustion and emission performances of engine. Based on the self-regulated temperature property of positive temperature coefficient material, this article used a positive temperature coefficient material as electric heating element to heat diesel fuel in fuel pipeline of diesel engine. A kind of BaTiO3-based positive temperature coefficient material, with the Curie temperature of 230°C and rated voltage of 24 V, was developed, and its micrograph and element compositions were also analyzed. By the fuel pipeline wrapped in six positive temperature coefficient ceramics, its resistivity–temperature and heating characteristics were tested on a fuel pump bench. The experiments showed that in this installation, the surface temperature of six positive temperature coefficient ceramics rose to the equilibrium temperature only for 100 s at rated voltage. In rated power supply for six positive temperature coefficient ceramics, the temperature of injection fuel improved for 21°C–27°C within 100 s, and then could keep constant. Using positive temperature coefficient material to heat diesel in fuel pipeline of diesel engine, the injection mass per cycle had little change, approximately 0.3%/°C. This study provides a beneficial reference for improving atomization of high-viscosity liquids by employing positive temperature coefficient material without any control methods.
Optimization design and application of composite ultrasonic extraction method for effective constituents of green tea
Authors: Wang Cheng-Chi , Lee Tsui-Er
Published: January 2016

A composite ultrasonic process is used to extract five constituent components of green tea, namely caffeine, catechin, epigallocatechin gallate, epicatechin, and chlorogenic acid. The optimal parameters of the extraction process are determined using the robust Taguchi design method. The extracted products are analyzed using gas chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. The experimental results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed ultrasonic technique in extracting the components of interest. Moreover, it is shown that the optimal extraction parameters depend on the particular component. In general, the present findings provide a useful reference for further research on the processing of green tea.
Teachers’ perceptions of the utilisation of Emotional Intelligence by their school principals to manage mandated curriculum change processes
Authors: Grobler Bennie , Moloi Connie , Thakhordas Sunita
Published: January 2016

This quantitative study investigates teachers’ perceptions of how Emotional Intelligence (EI) was utilised by their school principals to manage mandated curriculum change processes in schools in the Johannesburg North district of Gauteng in South Africa. Research shows that EI consists of a range of fundamental skills that could enable school principals to facilitate the curriculum changes that are mandated by the Department of Basic Education and implemented by teachers in their classrooms. Researchers argue that principals could simply instruct teachers that the Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements, for example, are mandated by top management and that they have to implement them, or they could use EI skills to obtain teachers’ collaboration and commitment to implement the mandated changes. Using a quantitative research method, a structured questionnaire was administered to a sample of 600 Foundation Phase and Grade 10 teachers to probe their perceptions about the extent to which leadership utilised EI to manage mandated curriculum change. The results of this investigation show that there is a strong correlation between the utilisation of EI by school principals and the implementation of the mandated changes.
Sonographic imaging of extra-testicular focal lesions: comparison of grey-scale, colour Doppler and contrast-enhanced ultrasound
Authors: Rafailidis Vasileios , Robbie Hasti , Konstantatou Eleni , Huang Dean Y , Deganello Annamaria , Sellars Maria E , Cantisani Vito , Isidori Andrea M , Sidhu Paul S
Published: January 2016

Extra-testicular lesions are usually benign but present with nonspecific grey-scale sonography findings. This study assesses conventional sonographic characteristics in the differentiation of extra-testicular tumoural from inflammatory lesions and whether contrast-enhanced ultrasound has a role. A retrospective database analysis was performed. All patients were examined by experienced sonographers employing standard techniques combining grey-scale, colour Doppler sonography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound. Features recorded were: clinical symptoms, size, location, echogenicity, colour Doppler sonography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound enhancement. Vascularity on colour Doppler sonography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound was graded and compared. The lesions were classified as tumoural or inflammatory. The Chi-square test was used to analyse the sonographic patterns and kappa coefficient to measure the agreement between colour Doppler sonography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound. A total of 30 lesions were reviewed (median diameter 12 mm, range 5–80 mm, median age 52 years, range 18–86 years), including 13/30 tumoural and 17/30 inflammatory lesions. Lesions were hypoechoic ( n = 12), isoechoic ( n = 6), hyperechoic ( n = 2) or mixed ( n = 10). Grey-scale characteristics of tumoural vs. inflammatory lesions differed significantly ( P = 0.026). On colour Doppler sonography, lesions had no vessels ( n = 16), 2–3 vessels ( n = 10) and ≥4 vessels ( n = 4). On contrast-enhanced ultrasound, lesions showed no vascularity ( n = 17), perfusion similar to testis ( n = 7) and higher ( n = 6). All abscesses identified ( n = 9) showed no vascularity on both colour Doppler sonography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound. There was good agreement between these techniques in evaluating vascularity ( κ = 0.719) and no significant difference between colour Doppler sonography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound of tumoural vs. inflammatory lesions ( P > 0.05). The grey-scale appearances of extra-testicular lesions are essential for characterisation. Colour Doppler sonography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound findings are not useful in that respect. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound is excellent in establishing absence of vascularity.