bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Approach to Design a 4-Bit Binary Comparator Circuit with Reversible Logic using CDSM Gate
Authors: Shukla Vandana , Singh O. P. , Mishra G. R. , Tiwari R. K.
Published: March 2016

In the recent scenario of microelectronic industry, the reversible logic is considered as the burgeonic technology for digital circuit designing. It deals with the aim to generate digital circuits with zero power loss characteristics. Optical computing, Nanotechnology, Low power CMOS design and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) processors are leading areas of development with the concept of reversible logic. Researchers have already proposed various subsystems of the computer for the creation of low power loss devices with the help of numerous available reversible logic gates. Here in this paper, the authors have proposed a new reversible gate named as CDSM gate with 4×4 size. This CDSM gate is used to design optimized 4-bit binary comparator. The optimization is improved as compared to the existing designs based on some significant performance parameters such as total number of gates, garbage outputs generated, constant inputs and quantum cost. Comparators are widely used in various computing applications such as counters, convertor, Central Processing Unit (CPU) and control circuits etc. The comparator circuits using reversible logic can be visualized as a low power loss subsystem for the development of improved digital systems.
Bridging Inference Based Sentence Linking Model for Semantic Coherence
Authors: Liu Weidong , Luo Xiangfeng , Shu Jun , Jiang Dandan
Published: March 2016

As the various social Medias emerge on the web, how to link the large scale of unordered short texts with semantic coherence is becoming a practical problem since these short texts have vast decentralized topics, weak associate relations, abundant noise and large redundancy. The challenging issues to solve the above problem includes what knowledge foundation supports sentence linking process and how to link these unordered short texts for pursuing well coherence. Herein, the authors develop bridging inference based sentence linking model by simulating human beings' discourse bridging process, which narrows semantic coherence gaps between short texts. Such model supports linking process by implicit and explicit knowledge and proposes different bridging inference schemas to guide the linking process. The bridging inference based linking process under different schemas generates different semantic coherence including central semantics, concise semantics and layered semantics etc. To validate the bridging inference based sentence linking model, the authors conduct some experiments. Experimental results confirm that the proposed bridging inference based sentence linking process increases semantic coherence. The model can be used in short-text origination, e-learning, e-science, web semantic search, and online question-answering system in the future works.
Hierarchical Fuzzy Rule Interpolation and its Application for Hotels Location Selection
Authors: Jiang Yanling , Jin Shangzhu , Peng Jun
Published: March 2016

Fuzzy rule interpolation offers a useful means for enhancing the robustness of fuzzy models by making inference possible in systems of only a sparse rule base. However in practical applications, as the application domain of fuzzy systems expand to more complex ones, the curse of dimensionality problem of the conventional fuzzy systems became apparent, which makes the already challenging tasks such as inference and interpolation even more difficult. An initial idea of hierarchical fuzzy interpolation is presented in this paper. The proposed approach combines hierarchical fuzzy systems and fuzzy rule interpolation, to overcome the curse of dimensionality problem and the sparse rule base problem simultaneously. Hierarchical fuzzy interpolation is applicable to situations where a multiple multi-antecedent rules system needs to be reconstructed to a multi-layer fuzzy system and the sub-layer rules base is sparse. In order to demonstrate the potential of this approach, a hierarchical fuzzy decision making model for international tourist hotel location selection is provided in this paper. Criteria are acquired from literatures review and practical investigations for selecting the international tourist hotel location. These supportive systems can be directly presented to the tourists requesting a mechanism for selecting the most appropriate hotel, where lack enough information about the important indicators and factors. This model can also support the managers of hotels who are trying to make strategic decisions regarding the most optimized investments on the indicators of selecting a hotel. An empirical study for identifying the international tourist hotel location selection in Chongqing is conducted to demonstrate the computational results and effectiveness of the proposed methodology.
Cyberspace as a Complex Adaptive System and the Policy and Operational Implications for Cyberwarfare
Authors: Olagbemiro Albert
Published: March 2016

The overall implication of depicting cyberspace as a complex, adaptive ecosystem rather than its current representation as a bi-dimensional domain provides an avenue for further insight into the complexities associated with operating in cyberspace. This renewed perspective brings to the forefront the critical role of the civilian private sector in cyber warfare, due to the intermixing and heavy reliance of the United States Government (USG) on an infrastructure owned and operated by the civilian private sector. The implications of such a revisionist perspective leads to a theory of action, which suggests that given this heavy reliance of U.S.G entities to include DoD, on a cyber-infrastructure predominantly owned and operated by civilian private sector entities, authorization to wage offensive-styled cyber-attacks, as a defensive measure should not be limited exclusively to the DoD but also expanded to include authorized entities in the civilian private sector.
Academic Major Decidedness
Authors: Riley Jason M. , Collins Jamie D.
Published: March 2016

The authors investigate how job-related beliefs, professors, and families influence major decidedness for undergraduate business students. When students are decided about their major, they can focus on studies, have clearer direction, and reduce the time and number of classes necessary to complete their degree. By understanding how business students decide their academic major, universities can better direct recruitment, guidance, and retention resources. Using survey data from 410 undergraduates, the authors link job-related beliefs to major decidedness and show when students are optimistic about career potential, job structure, and the people orientedness of the profession associated with their major they will be more decided about their major. The findings also confirm the effects of professors and families on academic major decidedness. The results offered herein represent a call to action suggesting professors should spend time with undecided students, so they can better coach the students as they decide their major. Additionally, business schools should direct resources to educate family members, so they can help students decide their major. Lastly, when examining differences between first-generation and non-first generation students, the authors found professors and family members were more influential to the first-generation population. Hence, first-generation students are more receptive to guidance about their academic major.
Biomedical Instrumentation
Authors: Webster John G.
Published: March 2016

This paper covers the measurement of biopotentials for diagnosis: the electrical voltages that can be measured from electrodes placed on the skin or within the body. Biopotentials include: the electrocardiogram (ECG), electroencephalogram (EEG), electrocortogram (ECoG), electromyogram (EMG), electroneurogram (ENG), electrogastrogram (EGG), action potential (AP), electroretinogram (ERG), electro-oculogram (EOG). This paper also covers skin conductance, pulse oximeters, urology, wearable systems and important therapeutic devices such as: the artificial cardiac pacemaker, defibrillator, cochlear implant, hemodialysis, lithotripsy, ventilator, anesthesia machine, heart-lung machine, infant incubator, infusion pumps, electrosurgery, tissue ablation, and medical imaging. It concludes by covering electrical safety. It provides future subjects for research such as a blood glucose sensor and a permanently implanted intracranial pressure sensor.
Biologically Inspired Components in Embedded Vision Systems
Authors: Ang Li-Minn , Seng Kah Phooi , Ngau Christopher Wing Hong
Published: March 2016

Biological vision components like visual attention (VA) algorithms aim to mimic the mechanism of the human vision system. Often VA algorithms are complex and require high computational and memory requirements to be realized. In biologically-inspired vision and embedded systems, the computational capacity and memory resources are of a primary concern. This paper presents a discussion for implementing VA algorithms in embedded vision systems in a resource constrained environment. The authors survey various types of VA algorithms and identify potential techniques which can be implemented in embedded vision systems. Then, they propose a low complexity and low memory VA model based on a well-established mainstream VA model. The proposed model addresses critical factors in terms of algorithm complexity, memory requirements, computational speed, and salience prediction performance to ensure the reliability of the VA in a resource constrained environment. Finally a custom softcore microprocessor-based hardware implementation on a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is used to verify the implementation feasibility of the presented model.
Elementary Teachers' Perceptions of Technology Proficiencies and Motivation to Integrate Technology in School Curricula
Authors: Karl Laura , Orth Judith , Hargiss Kathleen , Howard Caroline
Published: March 2016

Despite the availability of technological resources, the number of teachers integrating and using technology innovatively in the classroom is unknown. This investigation explored teachers' perceptions of proficiency in the use of computer technology in the classroom. Self-determination theory assisted the examination of motivation as decisions are made to integrate technology into the classroom curriculum. A qualitative, multiple case study design was used to explore the views of 10 technology-using elementary teachers in the use of technology in the classroom. Using the constant comparative method, the results showed that teachers were found to be efficacious when incorporating technology into the curriculum and believed their actions could produce the desired results despite their technological skill level. Teachers were found to be self-determined and motivated to integrate technology; however, innovative practice was not evident while existing practice conformed to the instructional norms of the school. Recommendations for teacher professional development are included in this study.
A Qualitative Case Study for Technology Acceptance Using TAM and the Kübler-Ross Models
Authors: Sotelo Benjamin , Livingood Richard Alan
Published: March 2016

This study was an investigation of interactions based on the existing research, including the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (Davis, 1986) and The Kübler-Ross model for grieving and acceptance of dying that addresses emotional transitions of terminally ill patients. As obvious as this connection may be, there is little research that has been presented to analyze the human acceptance process related to other models of acceptance. Nor has there been an analysis of the technology acceptance experience from an emotional, cognitive perspective. This study produced themes that address the process for acceptance at an individual level. Themes associated with technology acceptance included force, emotions triggered by interaction with technology, how technology was introduced and relationships with those that introduced it, organic acceptance, cost associated with use, small wins learning to use the technology, societal perspectives, avoidability behaviors, social adoption, supported infrastructure, loss of freedom, finality and rejection, dependency, euphoria, and anxiety with use.
On Implementation of Open Standards in Software
Authors: Lundell Björn , Gamalielsson Jonas , Katz Andrew
Published: March 2016

Several European countries, as well as the European Commission, have acknowledged the importance of open standards (under various definitions of that term) and have taken steps accordingly. Formal (e.g. ISO) standards are often referred to in software development and procurement, but may not necessarily also be open standards. The authors consider the application of formal standards where national policy promotes their use, and, since much contemporary software development involves open source software, they further consider the interaction between the requirement to comply with open standards, and the implementation of open and formal standards in open source software, with particular reference to patent licensing. It is shown that not all formal standards are open standards. SSO policies and procedures regarding the notification of standards-essential patents (SEPs) present challenges for organisations wishing to implement standards in software since such policies and procedures need to be compliant with procurement requirements, patent licences and open source software licences. This paper draws out some implications for those organisations (differentiating where appropriate between small companies and other organisations) and suggests a number of ways of addressing the challenges identified. Use of formal standards may create barriers for implementation in open source software and inhibit an open and inclusive business-friendly ecosystem, and to avoid such barriers is of particular importance for small companies that are essential players in an innovative and international society.
HIV-1–Mediated BAFF Secretion in Macrophages Does Not Require Endosomal TLRs, Type-I IFN, and Nef, but Depends on the Cellular Phenotype Status
Authors: Gomez Alejandro M. , Ouellet Michel , Deshiere Alexandre , Breton Yann , Tremblay Michel J.
Published: March 2016

HIV-1 infection is characterized by persistent viral replication, chronic immune activation, and CD4+ T cell depletion. Moreover, several immune dysfunctions are observed in cells that are not targeted by the virus, such as B cells. Some B cell abnormalities include hypergammaglobulinemia, nonspecific B cell activation, class switching, increased cell turnover, breakage of tolerance, and a loss of the capacity to generate and maintain memory. Several cytokines and growth factors that are increased in the serum of HIV-1–infected individuals have been suggested to directly or indirectly trigger B cell activation, and one of these is BAFF. In this study, we investigate the ability of fully competent (R5-tropic) HIV-1 to induce BAFF production by monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs). We demonstrate here that HIV-1 drives BAFF production in MDMs in a type-I IFN– and TLR-independent manner. Moreover, we determine that HIV-1 Nef accessory protein is dispensable in BAFF upregulation as a nef-deleted HIV-1 strain is still able to increase BAFF at levels similar to the wild type strain. Finally, we show that the macrophage phenotype status affects HIV-1 replication and BAFF induction, as both were abrogated in MDMs displaying a M1 phenotype. This study provides new useful information about the increased levels of BAFF observed during HIV-1 infection and highlights the importance of macrophages as a source of BAFF, a phenomenon that might contribute to B cell dysfunctions at inflammatory tissue sites in infected individuals.
TLR10 Is a Negative Regulator of Both MyD88-Dependent and -Independent TLR Signaling
Authors: Jiang Song , Li Xinyan , Hess Nicholas J. , Guan Yue , Tapping Richard I.
Published: March 2016

TLRs are central components of the innate immune system which, upon recognition of bacterial, fungal or viral components, activate intracellular signals that lead to protective inflammatory responses. Among the 10-member human TLR family, TLR10 is the only remaining orphan receptor without a known ligand or signaling function. Murine TLR10 is a disrupted pseudogene, which precludes investigation using classic gene knockout approaches. We report here that TLR10 suppressed the production of an array of cytokines in stably transfected human myelomonocytic U937 cells in response to other TLR agonists. This broad TLR suppressive activity affects both MyD88- and TRIF-inducing IFN-β–mediated signaling pathways upstream of IκB and MAPK activation. Compared with nontransgenic littermate controls, monocytes of TLR10 transgenic mice exhibited blunted IL-6 production following ex vivo blood stimulation with other TLR agonists. After i.p. injection of LPS, lower levels of TNFα, IL-6, and type 1 IFN were measured in the serum of TLR10 transgenic mice compared to nontransgenic mice, but did not affect mouse survival in an LPS-induced septic shock model. Finally, treatment of human mononuclear cells with a monoclonal anti-TLR10 Ab suppressed proinflammatory cytokines released by LPS stimulation. These results demonstrate that TLR10 functions as a broad negative regulator of TLR signaling and suggests that TLR10 has a role in controlling immune responses in vivo.
Mucinous Cystic Neoplasm of the Liver Masquerading as an Echinococcal Cyst: Radiologic-pathologic Differential of Complex Cystic Liver Lesions
Authors: Jeong Daniel , Jiang Kun , Anaya Daniel A.
Published: March 2016

Although simple liver cysts are common, complex cystic liver lesions are infrequent and represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The differential diagnosis of complex cystic liver lesions can be grouped into neoplastic, infectious or inflammatory, and miscellaneous pathologic entities. Clinicians should remember to consider mucinous cystic neoplasm and echinococcal cysts in the differential, which are uncommon etiologies for liver lesions but may expose unique challenges. We present a case of a 49-year-old female who was referred for evaluation of a new complex cystic liver lesion. The following brief review describes how radiologic imaging and pathologic testing can help distinguish between the broad spectrum of diseases that may produce cystic liver lesions.
Rare Intensely Fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose Avid Large Retropharyngeal Goiter in a Patient with Invasive Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Kviatkovsky Bina , Landau Elliot , Siddique Muhammad , Brenner Arnold
Published: March 2016

Diffuse increased fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) avidity on positron emission tomography (PET) scans has been demonstrated in patients with chronic thyroiditis, likely secondary to increased inflammatory cell glucose uptake. A complex association has been demonstrated between breast cancer and thyroid disease, although the mechanism remains elusive. Development of chronic thyroiditis and/or goiter in breast cancer patients has been suggested to convey a more favorable prognosis. Goiter extension is almost exclusively into retrosternal space, with only a handful of cases reported with superior extension into retropharyngeal space. We present a rare case of a diffusely enlarged goiter extending superior and posterior into the retropharyngeal space with an associated intense 18F-FDG avidity standardized uptake value maximum (SUVmax) of 16.1 in a patient with invasive ductal breast cancer. To our knowledge, this represents the first published case of diffusely 18F-FDG avid goiter with retropharyngeal extension.
Évolution récente de la pluviométrie en Afrique de l’ouest à travers deux régions : la Sénégambie et le bassin du Niger moyen
Authors: Descroix Luc , Diongue Niang Aïda , Panthou Gérémy , Bodian Ansoumana , Sane Youssouph , Dacosta Honoré , Malam Abdou Moussa , Vandervaere Jean-Pierre , Quantin Guillaume
Published: March 2016

La mousson ouest-africaine rythme le calendrier agricole de toute l’Afrique de l’Ouest; celui-ci est de plus en plus court au fur et à mesure que l’on se déplace vers le Nord, comme la durée et l’abondance de la mousson diminuent. Après une période de sécheresse de 1968 à 1995, l’Afrique de l’Ouest connaît plutôt depuis la fin du dernier millénaire un retour à des conditions pluviométriques plus humides; celles-ci, aux latitudes soudano-sahéliennes, sont similaires, en termes de moyenne et de variabilité interannuelle, à celles qui ont été observées de 1900 à 1950. L’objectif est de montrer en quoi l’évolution pluviométrique récente explique la dynamique hydrologique et agronomique de la région ouest-africaine, en particulier l’occurrence accrue des inondations et le faible regain des rendements agricoles en dépit du retour à une pluviométrie plus favorable. Des méthodes statistiques simples sont utilisées dans deux sous-régions, la Sénégambie et le bassin du Niger Moyen, pour mettre en évidence l’évolution, sur la période 1950-2013, des caractéristiques de la mousson qui ont un intérêt hydrologique et agronomique (cumuls annuels, pluies extrêmes, date de début et de fin et durée de la saison des pluies). On observe que les périodes 1900-1950 et 1995-2015 peuvent être considérées comme des périodes de pluviométrie moyenne, les périodes 1951-1967 et 1968-1995 étant des périodes respectivement humides et sèches. Par ailleurs, on observe une augmentation des jours de pluie de fort cumul bien plus rapide que celle de la pluie elle-même. Enfin, si la saison des pluies est à présent sensiblement plus longue que durant la phase sèche, on observe pourtant ces dernières années dans le Sahel central un retour des « mauvais » hivernages au sens agronomique du terme.
Forty Years of Dengue Surveillance at a Tertiary Pediatric Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, 1973–2012
Authors: Nisalak Ananda , Clapham Hannah E. , Kalayanarooj Siripen , Klungthong Chonticha , Thaisomboonsuk Butsaya , Fernandez Stefan , Reiser Julia , Srikiatkhachorn Anon , Macareo Louis R. , Lessler Justin T. , Cummings Derek A. T. , Yoon In-Kyu
Published: March 2016

Long-term observational studies can provide valuable insights into overall dengue epidemiology. Here, we present analysis of dengue cases at a pediatric hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, during a 40-year period from 1973 to 2012. Data were analyzed from 25,715 hospitalized patients with laboratory-confirmed dengue virus (DENV) infection. Several long-term trends in dengue disease were identified including an increase in mean age of hospitalized cases from an average of 7–8 years, an increase after 1990 in the proportion of post-primary cases for DENV-1 and DENV-3, and a decrease in the proportion of dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome cases in primary and post-primary cases over time. Exploratory mechanistic analysis of these observed trends considered changes in diagnostic methods, demography, force of infection, and Japanese encephalitis vaccination as possible explanations. Thailand is an important setting for studying DENV transmission as it has a “mature” dengue epidemiology with a strong surveillance system in place since the early 1970s. We characterized changes in dengue epidemiology over four decades, and possible impact of demographic and other changes in the human population. These results may inform other countries where similar changes in transmission and population demographics may now or may soon be occurring.
Socioeconomic and Ecological Factors Influencing Aedes aegypti Prevalence, Abundance, and Distribution in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Dhar-Chowdhury Parnali , Haque C. Emdad , Lindsay Robbin , Hossain Shakhawat
Published: March 2016

This study examined household risk factors and prevalence, abundance, and distribution of immature Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, and their association with socioeconomic and ecological factors at urban zonal and household levels in the city of Dhaka, Bangladesh. During the 2011 monsoon, 826 households in 12 randomly selected administrative wards were surveyed for vector mosquitoes. Results revealed that the abundance and distribution of immature Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus, and pupae-per-person indices did not vary significantly among the zones with varied socioeconomic status. Of 35 different types of identified wet containers, 30 were infested, and among the 23 pupae-positive container types, nine were defined as the “most productive” for pupae including: disposable plastic containers (12.2% of 550), sealable plastic barrels (12.0%), tires (10.4%), abandoned plastic buckets (9.6%), flower tub and trays (8.5%), refrigerator trays (6.5%), plastic bottles (6.4%), clay pots (4.9%), and water tanks (1.6%). When the function of the containers was assessed, ornamental, discarded, and household repairing and reconstruction-related container categories were found significantly associated with the number of pupae in the households. The purpose of storing water and income variables were significant predictors of possession of containers that were infested by vector mosquitoes.
Long-Term Safety and Immunogenicity of a Tetravalent Live-Attenuated Dengue Vaccine and Evaluation of a Booster Dose Administered to Healthy Thai Children
Authors: Watanaveeradej Veerachai , Simasathien Sriluck , Mammen Mammen P. , Nisalak Ananda , Tournay Elodie , Kerdpanich Phirangkul , Samakoses Rudiwilai , Putnak Robert J. , Gibbons Robert V. , Yoon In-Kyu , Jarman Richard G. , De La Barrera Rafael , Moris Philippe , Eckels Kenneth H. , Thomas Stephen J. , Innis Bruce L.
Published: March 2016

We evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of two doses of a live-attenuated, tetravalent dengue virus vaccine (F17/Pre formulation) and a booster dose in a dengue endemic setting in two studies. Seven children (7- to 8-year-olds) were followed for 1 year after dose 2 and then given a booster dose (F17/Pre formulation), and followed for four more years (Child study). In the Infant study, 49 2-year-olds, vaccinated as infants, were followed for approximately 3.5 years after dose 2 and then given a booster dose (F17) and followed for one additional year. Two clinically notable events were observed, both in dengue vaccine recipients in the Infant study: 1 case of dengue approximately 2.7 years after dose 2 and 1 case of suspected dengue after booster vaccinations. The booster vaccinations had a favorable safety profile in terms of reactogenicity and adverse events reported during the 1-month follow-up periods. No vaccine-related serious adverse events were reported during the studies. Neutralizing antibodies against dengue viruses 1–4 waned during the 1–3 years before boosting, which elicited a short-lived booster response but did not provide a long-lived, multivalent antibody response in most subjects. Overall, this candidate vaccine did not elicit a durable humoral immune response.
A semi-empirical model for mesospheric and stratospheric NOy produced by energetic particle precipitation
Authors: Funke Bernd , López-Puertas Manuel , Stiller Gabriele P. , Versick Stefan , von Clarmann Thomas
Published: March 2016

Abstract. The MIPAS Fourier transform spectrometer on board Envisat has measured global distributions of the six principal reactive nitrogen (NOy) compounds (HNO3, NO2, NO, N2O5, ClONO2, and HNO4) during 2002–2012. These observations were used in a previous study to detect regular polar winter descent of reactive nitrogen produced by energetic electron precipitation (EPP) down to the lower stratosphere, often called EPP indirect effect. It has further been shown that the observed fraction of NOy produced by EPP (EPP-NOy) has a nearly linear relationship with the geomagnetic Ap index when taking into account the time lag introduced by transport. Here we exploit these results in a semi-empirical model for computation of EPP-modulated NOy densities and wintertime downward fluxes through stratospheric and mesospheric pressure levels. Since the Ap dependence of EPP-NOy is distorted during episodes of strong descent in Artic winters associated with elevated stratopause events, a specific parameterization has been developed for these episodes. This model accurately reproduces the observations from MIPAS and is also consistent with estimates from other satellite instruments. Since stratospheric EPP-NOy depositions lead to changes in stratospheric ozone with possible implications for climate, the model presented here can be utilized in climate simulations without the need to incorporate many thermospheric and upper mesospheric processes. By employing historical geomagnetic indices, the model also allows for reconstruction of the EPP indirect effect since 1850. We found secular variations of solar cycle-averaged stratospheric EPP-NOy depositions in the order of 1 Gigamole. In particular, we model a reduction of the EPP-NOy deposition rate during the last three decades, related to the coincident decline of geomagnetic activity, that corresponds to 1.8 % of the NOy production rate by N2O oxidation. As the decline of the geomagnetic activity level is expected to continue in the coming decades, this is likely to affect the longterm NOy trend by counteracting the expected increase caused by growing N2O emissions.
Primary and secondary aerosols in Beijing in winter: sources, variations and processes
Authors: Sun Yele , Du Wei , Fu Pingqing , Wang Qingqing , Li Jie , Ge Xinlei , Zhang Qi , Zhu Chunmao , Ren Lujie , Xu Weiqi , Zhao Jian , Han Tingting , Worsnop Douglas R. , Wang Zifa
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Winter has the worst air pollution in a year in the megacity of Beijing. Despite extensive winter studies in recent years, our knowledge on the sources, formation mechanisms and evolution of aerosol particles is not complete. Here we have a comprehensive characterization of the sources, variations and processes of submicron aerosols that were measured by an Aerodyne high-resolution aerosol mass spectrometer from December 17, 2013 to January 17, 2014 along with offline filter analysis by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Our results suggest that submicron aerosols composition was overall similar in winter among different years, which was mainly composed of organics (60 %), sulfate (15 %) and nitrate (11 %). Positive matrix factorization of high- and unit-mass resolution spectra identified four primary organic aerosol (POA) factors from traffic, cooking, biomass burning (BBOA) and coal combustion (CCOA) emissions, and two secondary OA (SOA) factors. POA dominated OA, on average accounting for 56% with CCOA being the largest contributor (20 %). Both CCOA and BBOA showed distinct polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) spectral signatures indicating that PAHs in winter were mainly from coal combustion (66 %) and biomass burning emissions (18 %). BBOA was highly correlated with levoglucosan, a tracer compound for biomass burning (r2 = 0.93), and made a considerable contribution to OA in winter (9 %). An aqueous-phase processed SOA (aq-OOA) that was strongly correlated with particle liquid water content, sulfate and S-containing ions (e.g., CH2SO2+) was identified. aq-OOA on average contributed 12 % to the total OA and played a dominant role in increasing oxidation degrees of OA at high RH levels (> 50 %). Our results illustrate that aqueous-phase processing can enhance SOA production and oxidation states of OA as well in winter. Further episode analyses highlighted the significant impacts of meteorological parameters on aerosol composition, size distributions, oxidation states of OA, and evolutionary processes of secondary aerosols.
Trends analysis of PM source contributions and chemical tracers in NE Spain during 2004–2014: A multi-exponential approach
Authors: Pandolfi Marco , Alastuey Andrés , Pérez Noemi , Reche Cristina , Castro Iria , Shatalov Victor , Querol Xavier
Published: March 2016

Abstract. In this work for the first time data from two twin stations (Barcelona, urban background, and Montseny, regional background), located in NE of Spain, were used to study the trends of the concentrations of different chemical species in PM10 and PM2.5 along with the trends of the PM10 source contributions from Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) model. Eleven years of chemical data (2004–2014) were used for this study. Trends of both specie concentrations and source contributions were studied using the Mann-Kendall test for linear trends and a new approach based on multi-exponential fit of the data. Despite the fact that different PM fractions (PM1, PM2.5, PM10) showed linear decreasing trends at both stations, the contributions of specific sources of pollutants and the related chemical tracers showed exponential (single or double) decreasing trends. The different types of trends observed reflected the different effectiveness and/or time of implementation of the measures taken to reduce the concentrations of atmospheric pollutants (i.e. those implemented in the Industrial Emission Directives and in the Large Combustion Plants Directive). Moreover, the trends of the contributions from specific sources such as those related with industrial activities and with primary energy consumption mirrored the effect of the financial crisis in Spain from 2008. The sources that showed statistically significant downward trends at both Barcelona (BCN) and Montseny (MSY) during 2004–2014 were Ammonium sulfate, Ammonium nitrate, and V-Ni bearing source. The contributions from these sources decreased exponentially during the considered period indicating that the observed decrease was not gradual and consistent over time. Moreover, statistically significant decreasing trends were observed for the contributions to PM from the Industrial/Traffic source at MSY (mixed metallurgy and road traffic) and from the Industrial (metallurgy mainly) source at BCN. These sources were clearly linked with anthropogenic activities and the observed decreasing trends confirmed the effectiveness of pollution control measures implemented at EU or regional/local levels. The general trends observed for the calculated PMF source contributions well reflected the trends observed for the chemical tracers of these pollutant sources.
The MEDESS-GIB database: tracking the Atlantic water inflow
Authors: Sotillo Marcos García , Garcia-Ladona Emilio , Orfila Alejandro , Rodríguez-Rubio Pablo , Maraver José Cristobal , Conti Daniel , Padorno Elena , Jiménez José Antonio , Capó Este , Pérez Fernando , Sayol Juan Manuel , de los Santos Francisco Javier , Amo Arancha , Rietz Ana , Troupin Charles , Tintore Joaquín , Álvarez-Fanjul Enrique
Published: March 2016

Abstract. On 9 September 2014, an intensive drifter deployment was carried out in the Strait of Gibraltar. In the frame of the MEDESS-4MS Project (EU MED Program), the MEDESS-GIB experiment consisted of the deployment of 35 satellite tracked drifters, mostly of CODE-type, equipped with temperature sensor sampling at a rate of 30 min. Drifters were distributed along and on both sides of the Strait of Gibraltar. The MEDESS-GIB deployment plan was designed as to ensure quasi-synoptic spatial coverage. To this end, four boats covering an area of about 680 NM2 in 6 h were coordinated. As far as these authors know, this experiment is the most important exercise in the area in terms of number of drifters released. Collected satellite-tracked data along drifter trajectories have been quality controlled and processed to build the presented MEDESS-GIB database. This paper reports the MEDESS-GIB data set that comprises drifter trajectories, derived surface currents and in situ SST measurements collected along the buoys tracks. This series of data is available through the PANGAEA (Data Publisher for Earth and Environmental Science) repository, with the following doi:10.1594/PANGAEA.853701. Likewise, the MEDESS-GIB data will be incorporated as part of the Copernicus Marine historical products. The MEDESS-GIB data set provides a complete Lagrangian view of the surface inflow of Atlantic waters through the Strait of Gibraltar and thus, very useful data for further studies on the surface circulation patterns in the Alboran Sea, and their links with one of the most energetic Mediterranean Sea flows: the Algerian Current.
Flood forecasting using transboundary data with the fuzzy inference system: The Maritza (Meriç) River
Authors: Aydın Abdurrahim , Yücedağ İbrahim , Eker Remzi
Published: March 2016

Abstract. The rising floodwaters of the Maritza River, originating in the Balkans, affect those living in adjacent areas. The lower regions of the Maritza River are especially vulnerable to floods. The city of Edirne and the surrounding region in Turkey located downstream of the Maritza River are frequently affected by flooding. The section of the river inside the Turkish border is short; therefore, there is not adequate warning time for Turkey to alert the population against flash floods. For this reason, it is essential that Turkey acquire current flow information from Bulgarian sites for use in current flow prediction for Turkey's section of the river. To this aim, in order to predict the current flow of the Kirişhane station (Turkey) from the transboundary data of Plovdiv and Svilengrad stations (Bulgaria), four different models (M1‒M4) were developed by using the fuzzy inference system (FIS). Flow data from the Plovdiv, Svilengrad and Kirişhane stations were gauged every two hours covering the period from 9 February 2010 00:00:00 to 21 February 2010 22:00:00. In the first model, estimation was made using the current flows of the Plovdiv and Svilengrad stations. In the second model, estimation was made based on a two hour ahead prediction of the Svilengrad station and a four hour ahead prediction of the Plovdiv station. In the third model, calculations were based on predictions of four hours ahead of the Svilengrad station and eight hours ahead of the Plovdiv station. In the last model, estimation was based on predictions of six hours ahead of the Svilengrad station and twelve hours ahead of the Plovdiv station. The prediction ability of the FIS was evaluated by using the determination coefficient (R2), the Nach–Sutcliffe sufficiency score (NSSS), the normalized root mean square error (NRMSE), and the correlation coefficient (CORR). According to their performance criteria, all developed models produced highly satisfactory results. The M2 model gave the best results according to both NSSS and R2 values, whereas M4 had the lowest NSSS and R2 values. This study demonstrated that developed fuzzy rule-based models can satisfactorily predict flood waves and thus can be used for flood forecasting and warning systems.
Análisis métrico de las comunicaciones de la revista Centro Azúcar
Authors: Paz Enrique Luis Ernesto , Céspedes Villegas Alejandro , Hernández Alfonso Eduardo Alejandro
Published: March 2016

Las publicaciones científicas en línea generalmente se apoyan en los análisis métricos, favoreciendo la descripción de las revistas para su mejora continua. La revista Centro Azúcar se encuentra hace varios años en evaluación por bases de datos de prestigio internacional. La publicación carece de un estudio métrico que refleje la calidad de la publicación en consonancia a los indicadores establecidos por las fuentes de indización. Se plantean como objetivos del estudio examinar la producción científica de la revista Centro Azúcar desde el 2011 hasta el 2015, examinar las referencias contenidas en el período mencionado e identificar los índices de endogamia editorial presentes en la productividad y las referencias de los artículos publicados por la revista. Para la obtención de resultados se emplean métodos en los niveles teórico y empírico, destacándose el método bibliométrico. Se identifican varios aspectos que atentan contra la calidad de la publicación. Se aborda de forma novedosa el comportamiento de la endogamia editorial en las referencias. Se emiten valoraciones y se establecen aspectos a considerar por la publicación para que sea indizada en bases de datos de prestigio internacional.
A contribuição da Ciência da Informação para a Gestão do Conhecimento: um estudo teórico e prático
Authors: Silva Narjara Bárbara Xavier , Pinho Neto Júlio Afonso Sá de
Published: March 2016

Objetivo. A presente pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar o processo de gestão do conhecimento na empresa Cerâmica Salema, na perspectiva da Ciência da Informação. Método. Revisão bibliográfica, pesquisa aplicada, exploratória e descritiva, com abordagem quantitativa e qualitativa; pesquisa de campo, cujo instrumento utilizado foi um questionário misto, aplicado com o dirigente do nível estratégico, gestores do nível intermediário e demais colaboradores do nível operacional (setores administrativo e de produção industrial). Resultados. A análise de conteúdo dos dados coletados possibilitou identificar as práticas e lacunas existentes em cada etapa do processo em gestão do conhecimento, com base no modelo de processo em GC representado por Bergeron (2003). Conclusões. Os resultados deste estudo são capazes de subsidiar a elaboração de políticas e estratégias para a implantação de um Programa de Gestão do Conhecimento na empresa Cerâmica Salema.
Los metadatos asociados a la información audiovisual televisiva por “agentes externos” al servicio de documentación: validez, uso y posibilidades
Authors: Caldera-Serrano Jorge , Freire-Andino Roberto Ovidio
Published: March 2016

Se identifican los metadatos asociados a las imágenes que ingresan en los departamentos de documentación de las televisiones. Estos metadatos externos a la propia gestión documental pueden ser utilizados y contar con un valor positivo en el marco del análisis documental de la información audiovisual en televisión. Igualmente se señalan en qué momentos del proceso de la generación de la información pueden incorporarse metadatos descriptivos a la información audiovisual, tanto en la información procedente de agentes externos a la propia cadena, como aquel material que se produce en la propia empresa televisiva.
From Narativity to Criticality: Developing EFL Learners’ Critical Thinking Skills through Short Narratives/Stories Reading
Authors: Pashangzadeh Ashkan , Ahmadian Moussa , Yazdani Hooshang
Published: March 2016

Regarding the ever presence of narratives/stories in almost all aspects of human beings’ lives and the significance of Critical Thinking (CT) as an important factor in directing students to avenues of success in both educational and non-educational contexts, this study attempted to investigate the effectiveness of reading short narratives in EFL learners’ CT skills development. To this end, 59 undergraduate EFL learners majoring in English translation participated in the study. Taking into consideration the participants’ homogeneity in language proficiency and CT skills, 54 were finally selected and put into two experimental and control groups, namely, Narrative and Non-narrative groups, and 27 participants in each group. Short narrative and non-narrative (expository) texts, as elicitation tasks, were used for Narrative and Non-narrative groups respectively. Using a learner oriented approach, communicative reading strategies were incorporated into the course design for both groups. Statistical results, under the influence of 12 treatment sessions, indicated the out-performance of Narrative group, in comparison with Non-narrative one, from the pretest to the post-test (California Critical Thinking Skills Test, CCTST). Possible explanations for the difference in participants’ CT skills and potential pedagogical implications of the findings for language learning and teaching have been discussed.
Scientific Competencies of Kindergarten Teachers for Identifying Children with Special Needs and Their Attitudes towards Them – Survey Study in Najran, KSA
Authors: Saber Mervat Ragab , Yousf Fayza A.
Published: March 2016

The present study is an attempt to find out the availability of scientific competencies among kindergarten female teachers for identifying children with special needs in Najran and to identify the correlation between the scientific competencies to identify children with special needs and the attitude towards them. The variables utilized in this study are (specialization, years of experience, and number of courses). The study sample consists of (150) kindergarten teachers in Najran for the academic year (2014/2015). For achieving the purposes of the study, the two authors utilized a questionnaire to measure the scientific competencies, which comprised (43) items and another questionnaire to measure the attitude towards children with special needs. The study resulted that the kindergarten teachers enjoy scientific competencies related to the skill of identifying the special-needs child and the skill of dealing with that child. There is also a positive relationship between the scores of the sample of the scientific competencies for the special-needs child and their scores on the scale of the attitude towards the child, as well as there are statistical differences for the scales of competencies and attitudes towards the special-needs child in favor of the specialization of Kindergarten and those of medium work experience (6-10) years. 
Exploring the Nature of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programs in a Language Institute
Authors: Ahmad Hussain , Shah Sayyed Rashid , Alghamdi Emad A. , Shah Sayyed Rashid
Published: March 2016

When it is an undeniable reality that learning is at the centre of teaching profession, we assume that the continuing professional development would be a priority for all teachers. EFL teachers like the teachers of other subjects update their skills and knowledge base in order to keep abreast of the new developments and challenges in the field of English language teaching. The present study seeks to explore how EFL teachers in an English language institute at a Saudi Arabian university perceive the effectiveness of Continuing Professional Development in their context as well as the ways in which different modes of CPD can promote and enhance the teachers' learning. This study was conducted at an English language institute of a Saudi university. The study adopted a quantitative approach using online questionnaire. The quantitative data was collected from 50 EFL teachers who were qualified and experienced in the field of TESOL. The findings from the study showed that the teachers viewed external CPD such as courses, seminars, workshops and conferences, and self-directed endeavors like informal discussions, reading professional literature, and self-reflection more beneficial to their development than the internal CPD like classroom observations and other in-house training sessions. This paper concludes that the institution should improve its internal professional development scheme by expanding the professional development unit's role, enhancing the quality of its mentoring program, and establishing communities of practice wherein teachers engage in highly professional practices.
The Impact of Applying Computer-Based Training Strategy upon Developing the Skill of Solving Mathematical Word Problem among Students with Learning Disabilities
Authors: Hamadneh Burhan M. , Hamad Hassan A. , Al-azzam Mamoun M.
Published: March 2016

The present study aimed to investigate the impact of applying a computerized strategy based on training upon developing the skill of Math word problem solving among students with learning disabilities (attention-deficit) in Mathematics. The study sample consisted of (14) students with learning disabilities in Mathematics, randomly chosen from elementary public schools in the city of Najran, Saudi Arabia, and distributed evenly into two groups: The control group (7) students who studied in the traditional way and the experimental group (7) students who studied in computer-based training strategy. Pre-and-post achievement test conducted in Mathematics. The results showed that there are statistically significant differences at the post-achievement test in mathematics in the skill of Math word problem solving in favor of members of the experimental group, which indicates the effectiveness of the computer-based training strategy upon developing the skill of Math word problem solving. Accordingly, the study made several recommendations; the most notably is urging official bodies and educational institutions to provide educational computerized software and to be circulated to elementary public education schools.