bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational Modeling of Teaching and Learning through Application of Evolutionary Algorithms
Authors: Lamb Richard , Premo Joshua
Published: September 2015

Within the mind, there are a myriad of ideas that make sense within the bounds of everyday experience, but are not reflective of how the world actually exists; this is particularly true in the domain of science. Classroom learning with teacher explanation are a bridge through which these naive understandings can be brought in line with scientific reality. The purpose of this paper is to examine how the application of a Multiobjective Evolutionary Algorithm (MOEA) can work in concert with an existing computational-model to effectively model critical-thinking in the science classroom. An evolutionary algorithm is an algorithm that iteratively optimizes machine learning based computational models. The research question is, does the application of an evolutionary algorithm provide a means to optimize the Student Task and Cognition Model (STAC-M) and does the optimized model sufficiently represent and predict teaching and learning outcomes in the science classroom? Within this computational study, the authors outline and simulate the effect of teaching on the ability of a “virtual” student to solve a Piagetian task. Using the Student Task and Cognition Model (STAC-M) a computational model of student cognitive processing in science class developed in 2013, the authors complete a computational experiment which examines the role of cognitive retraining on student learning. Comparison of the STAC-M and the STAC-M with inclusion of the Multiobjective Evolutionary Algorithm shows greater success in solving the Piagetian science-tasks post cognitive retraining with the Multiobjective Evolutionary Algorithm. This illustrates the potential uses of cognitive and neuropsychological computational modeling in educational research. The authors also outline the limitations and assumptions of computational modeling.
Taxi Fleet Renewal in Cities with Improved Hybrid Powertrains: Life Cycle and Sensitivity Analysis in Lisbon Case Study
Authors: Castel-Branco António , Ribau João , Silva Carla
Published: September 2015

Stringent emissions regulations in cities and the high amount of daily miles driven by taxi vehicles enforce the need to renew these fleets with more efficient and cleaner technologies. Hybrid vehicles are potential candidates due to their enhanced powertrain, and slower battery depletion and fewer lifetime issues, relative to full electric vehicles. This paper proposes a methodology to analyze the best theoretical hybrid powertrain candidate with maximum in-use efficiency, minimum life cycle greenhouse gas emissions, and minimum additional cost, for a Lisbon taxi fleet case study. A multi-objective genetic algorithm integrated with a vehicle simulator is used to achieve several trade-off optimal solutions for different driving patterns. Potential improvements in taxi carbon footprint are discussed as a function of its lifetime, urban/extra-urban driving and maintenance/fuel life cycle uncertainty. Hybrid powertrains reveal to be advantageous comparatively to the conventional vehicle, especially in urban conditions. Specifically optimized solutions could reduce in-use energy consumption by 43%–47% in urban driving, and 27%–34% in extra-urban driving conditions, and reduce life cycle emissions by 47%–49% and 34%–36% respectively, relative to the conventional taxi. A financial gain of 50 $/km/fleet in extra-urban and 226 $/km/fleet in urban routes could be achieved by replacing the taxi fleet with the optimal solutions.
Electrochemical Properties for Co-Doped Pyrite with High Conductivity
Authors: Liu Yongchao , Wang Shengping
Published: September 2015

In this paper, the hydrothermal method was adopted to synthesize nanostructure Co-doped pyrite (FeS2). The structural properties and morphology of the synthesized materials were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. Co in the crystal lattice of FeS2 could change the growth rate of different crystal planes of the crystal particles, which resulted in various polyhedrons with clear faces and sharp outlines. In addition, the electrochemical performance of the doping pyrite in Li/FeS2 batteries was evaluated using the galvanostatic discharge test, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results showed that the discharge capacity of the doped material (801.8 mAh·g−1) with a doping ratio of 7% was significantly higher than that of the original FeS2 (574.6 mAh·g−1) because of the enhanced conductivity. Therefore, the doping method is potentially effective for improving the electrochemical performance of FeS2.
On the Number of Galaxies at High Redshift
Authors: Zaninetti Lorenzo
Published: September 2015

The number of galaxies at a given flux as a function of the redshift, z, is derived when the z-distance relation is non-standard. In order to compare different models, the same formalism is also applied to the standard cosmology. The observed luminosity function for galaxies of the zCOSMOS catalog at different redshifts is modeled by a new luminosity function for galaxies, which is derived by the truncated beta probability density function. Three astronomical tests, which are the photometric maximum as a function of the redshift for a fixed flux, the mean value of the redshift for a fixed flux, and the luminosity function for galaxies as a function of the redshift, compare the theoretical values of the standard and non-standard model with the observed value. The tests are performed on the FORS Deep Field (FDF) catalog up to redshift z = 1.5 and on the zCOSMOS catalog extending beyond z = 4. These three tests show minimal differences between the standard and the non-standard models.
Integration in the Vocational World: How Does It Affect Quality of Life and Subjective Well-Being of Young Adults with ASD
Authors: Gal Eynat , Selanikyo Efrat , Erez Asnat , Katz Noomi
Published: September 2015

This study aimed to assess whether the perception of quality of life (QOL) and subjective well-being (SWB) of young adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is affected by participation in a comprehensive program. Participants included 25 young adults with ASD who participated in the “Roim Rachok Program” (RRP), where they were trained to become aerial photography interpreters. Following the training period, they served in a designated army unit where they practiced their newly acquired profession. The participants filled out two questionnaires, (a) Quality of Life (QOL-Q) and (b) Personal Well-being Index (PWI), at three points of the intervention: (a) before the course, (b) at the end of the course, and (c) six months after integrating in the designated army unit. Wilcoxon signed ranks tests were used to assess the differences between the reported QOL and SWB at the three points of time. The results suggest that there were no significant differences at the end of the course, compared to its beginning. However, there were significantly improved perception of QOL and SWB during the period between the end of the course and six months after starting work. The results of this study highlight the importance of tailored vocational programs that are adapted to the unique needs and strengths of individuals with ASD.
Persistent Nipple Pain in Breastfeeding Mothers Associated with Abnormal Infant Tongue Movement
Authors: McClellan Holly , Kent Jacqueline , Hepworth Anna , Hartmann Peter , Geddes Donna
Published: September 2015

Background: Infants of breastfeeding mothers with persistent nipple pain have been shown to apply stronger vacuums to the breast and transfer less milk during one monitored feed. This may be associated with differences in the movement of the tongue. The aim was to analyse the intra-oral nipple shape and movement of the tongue of infants of mothers with and without nipple pain. Methods: Breastfeeding infants of mothers with or without nipple pain were monitored using ultrasound and intra-oral vacuum during one breastfeed. From cine clips of the ultrasound scans measurements were made of the depth of the intra-oral space between the hard-soft palate junction (HSPJ) and the mid-tongue; the distance of the tip of the nipple to the HSPJ; and nipple diameters from the tip to the base. Results: During nutritive sucking, tongue movements of infants of mothers with nipple pain resulted in a smaller intra-oral space (p = 0.040) and restricted nipple expansion compared to controls (p < 0.012). Stronger baseline and peak vacuums compared to controls were confirmed (p = 0.002). Conclusion: In these mothers, nipple pain was associated with restricted infant tongue movement. Ultrasound may complement measurement of intra-oral vacuum in monitoring treatment strategies in breastfeeding women experiencing nipple pain.
Injuries among Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Miners in Ghana
Authors: Kyeremateng-Amoah E. , Clarke Edith
Published: September 2015

Artisanal and small-scale gold miners are confronted with numerous hazards often resulting in varying degrees of injuries and fatalities. In Ghana, like many developing countries, there is paucity of information on the causes and nature of the accidents that result in the injuries. The study was a retrospective, cross sectional type that examined the records of injuries of artisanal and small-scale gold miners presented to the emergency department of a district hospital in the Eastern Region of Ghana from 2006 to 2013. The causes, types, and outcomes of reported injuries were analyzed for 72 cases. Occurrences of mining accidents reported in selected Ghanaian media during the year 2007–2012 were also analyzed to corroborate the causes of the accidents. Fractures and contusions constituted the most frequently occurring injuries, with collapse of the mine pits and falls being the most frequent cause of accidents reported both by the hospital and media records. This study shows that though varied degrees of injuries occur among the miners, the potential for serious injuries is substantial. Measures to reduce the incidence of injuries and fatalities should include education and training on the use of safe working tools and means of creating a safe working environment.
RETRACTED: Herndon, J.M. Evidence of Coal-Fly-Ash Toxic Chemical Geoengineering in the Troposphere: Consequences for Public Health. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12, 9375–9390
Authors: Tchounwou Paul
Published: September 2015

It was brought to my attention that there are problems related to the recently published article “Evidence of Coal-Fly-Ash Toxic Chemical Geoengineering in the Troposphere: Consequences for Public Health” [1]. [...]
Treadmill Exercise Attenuates Retinal Oxidative Stress in Naturally-Aged Mice: An Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: Kim Chan-Sik , Park Sok , Chun Yoonseok , Song Wook , Kim Hee-Jae , Kim Junghyun
Published: September 2015

In the retina, a number of degenerative diseases, including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration, may occur as a result of aging. Oxidative damage is believed to contribute to the pathogenesis of aging as well as to age-related retinal disease. Although physiological exercise has been shown to reduce oxidative stress in rats and mice, it is not known whether it has a similar effect in retinal tissues. The aim of this study was to evaluate retinal oxidative stress in naturally-aged mice. In addition, we evaluated the effects of aerobic training on retinal oxidative stress by immunohistochemically evaluating oxidative stress markers. A group of twelve-week-old male mice were not exercised (young control). Two groups of twenty-two-month-old male mice were created: an old control group and a treadmill exercise group. The old control group mice were not exercised. The treadmill exercise group mice ran on a treadmill (5 to 12 m/min, 30 to 60 min/day, 3 days/week for 12 weeks). The retinal thickness and number of cells in the ganglion cell layer of the naturally-aged mice were reduced compared to those in the young control mice. However, treadmill exercise reversed these morphological changes in the retinas. We evaluated retinal expression of carboxymethyllysine (CML), 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and nitrotyrosine. The retinas from the aged mice showed increased CML, 8-OHdG, and nitrotyrosine immunostaining intensities compared to young control mice. The exercise group exhibited significantly lower CML levels and nitro-oxidative stress than the old control group. These results suggest that regular exercise can reduce retinal oxidative stress and that physiological exercise may be distinctly advantageous in reducing retinal oxidative stress.
Weekly Treatment of 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin Improves Intracellular Cholesterol Levels in LDL Receptor Knockout Mice
Authors: Walenbergh Sofie , Houben Tom , Hendrikx Tim , Jeurissen Mike , Van Gorp Patrick , Vaes Nathalie , Damink Steven , Verheyen Fons , Koek Ger , Lütjohann Dieter , Grebe Alena , Latz Eicke , Shiri-Sverdlov Ronit
Published: September 2015

Recently, the importance of lysosomes in the context of the metabolic syndrome has received increased attention. Increased lysosomal cholesterol storage and cholesterol crystallization inside macrophages have been linked to several metabolic diseases, such as atherosclerosis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Two-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-B-CD) is able to redirect lysosomal cholesterol to the cytoplasm in Niemann-Pick type C1 disease, a lysosomal storage disorder. We hypothesize that HP-B-CD ameliorates liver cholesterol and intracellular cholesterol levels inside Kupffer cells (KCs). Hyperlipidemic low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout (Ldlr−/−) mice were given weekly, subcutaneous injections with HP-B-CD or control PBS. In contrast to control injections, hyperlipidemic mice treated with HP-B-CD demonstrated a shift in intracellular cholesterol distribution towards cytoplasmic cholesteryl ester (CE) storage and a decrease in cholesterol crystallization inside KCs. Compared to untreated hyperlipidemic mice, the foamy KC appearance and liver cholesterol remained similar upon HP-B-CD administration, while hepatic campesterol and 7α-hydroxycholesterol levels were back increased. Thus, HP-B-CD could be a useful tool to improve intracellular cholesterol levels in the context of the metabolic syndrome, possibly through modulation of phyto- and oxysterols, and should be tested in the future. Additionally, these data underline the existence of a shared etiology between lysosomal storage diseases and NAFLD.
Exploring the Molecular Interactions of 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone and Its Derivatives with TrkB and VEGFR2 Proteins
Authors: Chitranshi Nitin , Gupta Vivek , Kumar Sanjay , Graham Stuart
Published: September 2015

7,8-dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF) is a TrkB receptor agonist, and treatment with this flavonoid derivative brings about an enhanced TrkB phosphorylation and promotes downstream cellular signalling. Flavonoids are also known to exert an inhibitory effect on the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) family of tyrosine kinase receptors. VEGFR2 is one of the important receptors involved in the regulation of vasculogenesis and angiogenesis and has also been implicated to exhibit various neuroprotective roles. Its upregulation and uncontrolled activity is associated with a range of pathological conditions such as age-related macular degeneration and various proliferative disorders. In this study, we investigated molecular interactions of 7,8-DHF and its derivatives with both the TrkB receptor as well as VEGFR2. Using a combination of molecular docking and computational mapping tools involving molecular dynamics approaches we have elucidated additional residues and binding energies involved in 7,8-DHF interactions with the TrkB Ig2 domain and VEGFR2. Our investigations have revealed for the first time that 7,8-DHF has dual biochemical action and its treatment may have divergent effects on the TrkB via its extracellular Ig2 domain and on the VEGFR2 receptor through the intracellular kinase domain. Contrary to its agonistic effects on the TrkB receptor, 7,8-DHF was found to downregulate VEGFR2 phosphorylation both in 661W photoreceptor cells and in retinal tissue.
Single-Base Pair Genome Editing in Human Cells by Using Site-Specific Endonucleases
Authors: Ochiai Hiroshi
Published: September 2015

Genome-wide association studies have identified numerous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with human diseases or phenotypes. However, causal relationships between most SNPs and the associated disease have not been established, owing to technical challenges such as unavailability of suitable cell lines. Recently, efficient editing of a single base pair in the genome was achieved using programmable site-specific nucleases. This technique enables experimental confirmation of the causality between SNPs and disease, and is potentially valuable in clinical applications. In this review, I introduce the molecular basis and describe examples of single-base pair editing in human cells. I also discuss the challenges associated with the technique, as well as possible solutions.
Mesoscale Morphological Change, Beach Rotation and Storm Climate Influences along a Macrotidal Embayed Beach
Authors: Thomas Tony , Rangel-Buitrago Nelson , Phillips Michael , Anfuso Giorgio , Williams Allan
Published: September 2015

Cross-shore profiles and environmental forcing were used to analyse morphological change of a headland bay beach: Tenby, West Wales (51.66 N; −4.71 W) over a mesoscale timeframe (1996–2013). Beach profile variations were attuned with longer term shoreline change identified by previous research showing southern erosion and northern accretion within the subaerial zone and were statistically significant in both sectors although centrally there was little or no significance. Conversely a statistically significant volume loss was shown at all profile locations within the intertidal zone. There were negative phase relationships between volume changes at the beach extremities, indicative of beach rotation and results were statistically significant (p < 0.01) within both subaerial (R2 = 0.59) and intertidal (R2 = 0.70) zones. This was confirmed qualitatively by time-series analysis and further cross correlation analysis showed trend reversal time-lagged associations between sediment exchanges at either end of the beach. Wave height and storm events displayed summer/winter trends which explained longer term one directional rotation at this location. In line with previous regional research, environmental forcing suggests that imposed changes are influenced by variations in southwesterly wind regimes. Winter storms are generated by Atlantic southwesterly winds and cause a south toward north sediment exchange, while southeasterly conditions that cause a trend reversal are generally limited to the summer period when waves are less energetic. Natural and man-made embayed beaches are a common coastal feature and many experience shoreline changes, jeopardising protective and recreational beach functions. In order to facilitate effective and sustainable coastal zone management strategies, an understanding of the morphological variability of these systems is needed. Therefore, this macrotidal research dealing with rotational processes across the entire intertidal has significance for other macrotidal coastlines, especially with predicted climate change and sea level rise scenarios, to inform local, regional and national shoreline risk management strategies.
MS-Based Metabolite Profiling of Aboveground and Root Components of Zingiber mioga and Officinale
Authors: Han Ji , Lee Sunmin , Kim Hyang , Lee Choong
Published: September 2015

Zingiber species are members of the Zingiberaceae family, and are widely used for medicinal and food purposes. In this study aboveground and root parts of Zingiber mioga and Zingiber officinale were subjected to metabolite profiling by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) and gas chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC-TOF-MS) in order to characterize them by species and parts and also to measure bioactivities. Both primary and secondary metabolites showed clear discrimination in the PCA score plot and PLS-DA by species and parts. Tetrahydrocurcumin, diarylheptanoid, 8-gingerol, and 8-paradol were discriminating metabolites between Z. mioga and Z. officinale that were present in different quantities. Eleven flavonoids, six amino acids, six organic acids, four fatty acids, and gingerenone A were higher in the aboveground parts than the root parts. Antioxidant activities were measured and were highest in the root part of Z. officinale. The relatively high contents of tetrahydrocurcumin, diarylheptanoid, and galanganol C in the root part of Z. officinale showed highly positive correlation with bioactivities based on correlation assay. On the basis of these results, we can suggest different usages of structurally different parts of Zingiber species as food plants.
Polyaniline-Doped Spherical Polyelectrolyte Brush Nanocomposites with Enhanced Electrical Conductivity, Thermal Stability, and Solubility Property
Authors: Su Na
Published: September 2015

The synthesis procedure and dopant are crucial to the electrical conductivity, thermal stability, and solubility properties of polyaniline (PANI). In this paper, high-performance PANI was synthesized by means of chemical oxidative polymerization using anionic spherical polyelectrolyte brushes (ASPB) as dopant. The bonding structure, crystallographic structure, morphology, and thermal stability of the conductive nanocomposite were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) respectively. Meanwhile, investigation on the electrical conductivity suggested that the room-temperature electrical conductivity of PANI doped with ASPB (PANI/ASPB) was 19.3 S/cm, which was higher than that of PANI (7.0 S/cm), PANI doped with poly(sodium-p-styrenesulfonate) (PSS) (PANI/PSS) (14.6 S/cm), PANI doped with SiO2 (PANI/SiO2) (18.2 S/cm), and PANI doped with canonic spherical polyelectrolyte brushes (CSPB) (PANI/CSPB) (8.0 S/cm). Meanwhile, the addition of ASPB improved the thermal stability and solubility properties of PANI. ASPB played the role of template. Conductive mechanism of PANI/ASPB nanocomposite can be explained by the theoretical models of three-dimensional variable range-hopping (3D VRH).
Barriers to Open Access Publishing: Views from the Library Literature
Authors: Forrester Amy
Published: September 2015

The library and information science (LIS) community has an active role in supporting access to information and, therefore, is an important stakeholder in the open access conversation. One major discussion involves the barriers that have hindered the complete transition to open access in scientific publications. Building upon a longitudinal study by Bo-Christer Björk that looked at barriers to the open access publishing of scholarly articles, this study evaluates the discussion of those barriers in the LIS literature over the ten year period 2004–2014, and compares this to Björk’s conclusions about gold open access publishing. Content analysis and bibliometrics are used to confirm the growth of the discussion of open access in the past ten years and gain insight into the most prevalent issues hindering the development of open access.
Inspection of Pole-Like Structures Using a Visual-Inertial Aided VTOL Platform with Shared Autonomy
Authors: Sa Inkyu , Hrabar Stefan , Corke Peter
Published: September 2015

This paper presents an algorithm and a system for vertical infrastructure inspection using a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle and shared autonomy. Inspecting vertical structures such as light and power distribution poles is a difficult task that is time-consuming, dangerous and expensive. Recently, micro VTOL platforms (i.e., quad-, hexa- and octa-rotors) have been rapidly gaining interest in research, military and even public domains. The unmanned, low-cost and VTOL properties of these platforms make them ideal for situations where inspection would otherwise be time-consuming and/or hazardous to humans. There are, however, challenges involved with developing such an inspection system, for example flying in close proximity to a target while maintaining a fixed stand-off distance from it, being immune to wind gusts and exchanging useful information with the remote user. To overcome these challenges, we require accurate and high-update rate state estimation and high performance controllers to be implemented onboard the vehicle. Ease of control and a live video feed are required for the human operator. We demonstrate a VTOL platform that can operate at close-quarters, whilst maintaining a safe stand-off distance and rejecting environmental disturbances. Two approaches are presented: Position-Based Visual Servoing (PBVS) using an Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) and estimator-free Image-Based Visual Servoing (IBVS). Both use monocular visual, inertia, and sonar data, allowing the approaches to be applied for indoor or GPS-impaired environments. We extensively compare the performances of PBVS and IBVS in terms of accuracy, robustness and computational costs. Results from simulations Sensors 2015, 15 22004 and indoor/outdoor (day and night) flight experiments demonstrate the system is able to successfully inspect and circumnavigate a vertical pole.
Smartphone-Based Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis Devices for Daily Obesity Management
Authors: Choi Ahyoung , Kim Justin , Jo Seongwook , Jee Jae , Heymsfield Steven , Bhagat Yusuf , Kim Insoo , Cho Jaegeol
Published: September 2015

Current bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) systems are often large, cumbersome devices which require strict electrode placement on the user, thus inhibiting mobile capabilities. In this work, we developed a handheld BIA device that measures impedance from multiple frequencies (5 kHz~200 kHz) with four contact electrodes and evaluated the BIA device against standard body composition analysis systems: a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) system (GE Lunar Prodigy, GE Healthcare, Buckinghamshire, UK) and a whole-body BIA system (InBody S10, InBody, Co. Ltd, Seoul, Korea). In the study, 568 healthy participants, varying widely in body mass index, age, and gender, were recruited at two research centers: the Samsung Medical Center (SMC) in South Korea and the Pennington Biomedical Research Center (PBRC) in the United States. From the measured impedance data, we analyzed individual body fat and skeletal muscle mass by applying linear regression analysis against target reference data. Results indicated strong correlations of impedance measurements between the prototype pathways and corresponding InBody S10 electrical pathways (R = 0.93, p < 0.0001). Additionally, body fat estimates from DXA did not yield significant differences (p > 0.728 (paired t-test), DXA mean body fat 29.45 ± 10.77 kg, estimated body fat 29.52 ± 12.53 kg). Thus, this portable BIA system shows a promising ability to estimate an individual’s body composition that is comparable to large stationary BIA systems.
Energy-Efficient Transmissions for Remote Wireless Sensor Networks: An Integrated HAP/Satellite Architecture for Emergency Scenarios
Authors: Dong Feihong , Li Hongjun , Gong Xiangwu , Liu Quan , Wang Jingchao
Published: September 2015

A typical application scenario of remote wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is identified as an emergency scenario. One of the greatest design challenges for communications in emergency scenarios is energy-efficient transmission, due to scarce electrical energy in large-scale natural and man-made disasters. Integrated high altitude platform (HAP)/satellite networks are expected to optimally meet emergency communication requirements. In this paper, a novel integrated HAP/satellite (IHS) architecture is proposed, and three segments of the architecture are investigated in detail. The concept of link-state advertisement (LSA) is designed in a slow flat Rician fading channel. The LSA is received and processed by the terminal to estimate the link state information, which can significantly reduce the energy consumption at the terminal end. Furthermore, the transmission power requirements of the HAPs and terminals are derived using the gradient descent and differential equation methods. The energy consumption is modeled at both the source and system level. An innovative and adaptive algorithm is given for the energy-efficient path selection. The simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive algorithm. It is shown that the proposed adaptive algorithm can significantly improve energy efficiency when combined with the LSA and the energy consumption estimation.
Handling Neighbor Discovery and Rendezvous Consistency with Weighted Quorum-Based Approach
Authors: Own Chung-Ming , Meng Zhaopeng , Liu Kehan
Published: September 2015

Neighbor discovery and the power of sensors play an important role in the formation of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) and mobile networks. Many asynchronous protocols based on wake-up time scheduling have been proposed to enable neighbor discovery among neighboring nodes for the energy saving, especially in the difficulty of clock synchronization. However, existing researches are divided two parts with the neighbor-discovery methods, one is the quorum-based protocols and the other is co-primality based protocols. Their distinction is on the arrangements of time slots, the former uses the quorums in the matrix, the latter adopts the numerical analysis. In our study, we propose the weighted heuristic quorum system (WQS), which is based on the quorum algorithm to eliminate redundant paths of active slots. We demonstrate the specification of our system: fewer active slots are required, the referring rate is balanced, and remaining power is considered particularly when a device maintains rendezvous with discovered neighbors. The evaluation results showed that our proposed method can effectively reschedule the active slots and save the computing time of the network system.
Bayesian Analysis of Demand Elasticity in the Italian Electricity Market
Authors: D'Errico Maria , Bollino Carlo
Published: September 2015

The liberalization of the Italian electricity market is a decade old. Within these last ten years, the supply side has been extensively analyzed, but not the demand side. The aim of this paper is to provide a new method for estimation of the demand elasticity, based on Bayesian methods applied to the Italian electricity market. We used individual demand bids data in the day-ahead market in the Italian Power Exchange (IPEX), for 2011, in order to construct an aggregate demand function at the hourly level. We took into account the existence of both elastic and inelastic bidders on the demand side. The empirical results show that elasticity varies significantly during the day and across periods of the year. In addition, the elasticity hourly distribution is clearly skewed and more so in the daily hours. The Bayesian method is a useful tool for policy-making, insofar as the regulator can start with a priori historical information on market behavior and estimate actual market outcomes in response to new policy actions.
Sustainable Ethanol Production from Common Reed (Phragmites australis) through Simultaneuos Saccharification and Fermentation
Authors: Cotana Franco , Cavalaglio Gianluca , Pisello Anna , Gelosia Mattia , Ingles David , Pompili Enrico
Published: September 2015

Phragmites australis (common reed) is a perennial grass that grows in wetlands or near inland waterways. Due to its fast-growing properties and low requirement in nutrients and water, this arboreal variety is recognized as a promising source of renewable energy although it is one of the least characterized energy crops. In this experiment, the optimization of the bioethanol production process from Phragmites australis was carried out. Raw material was first characterized according to the standard procedure (NREL) to evaluate its composition in terms of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin content. Common reed was pretreated by steam explosion process at three different severity factor (R0) values. The pretreatment was performed in order to reduce biomass recalcitrance and to make cellulose more accessible to enzymatic attack. After the pretreatment, a water insoluble substrate (WIS) rich in cellulose and lignin and a liquid fraction rich in pentose sugars (xylose and arabinose) and inhibitors were collected and analyzed. The simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) of the WIS was performed at three different solid loadings (SL) 10%, 15%, 20% (w/w). The same enzyme dosage, equal to 20% (g enzyme/g cellulose), was used for all the WIS loadings. The efficiency of the whole process was evaluated in terms of ethanol overall yield (g ethanol/100 g raw material). The maximum ethanol overall yields achieved were 16.56 and 15.80 g ethanol/100 g RM dry basis for sample AP10 and sample AP4.4, respectively. The yields were reached working at lower solid loading (10%) and at the intermediate LogR0 value for the former and at intermediate solid loading (15%) and high LogR0 value for the latter, respectively.
Correction: Sangare, L., et al. Aflatoxin B1 Degradation by a Pseudomonas Strain. Toxins 2014, 6, 3028–3040
Authors: Sangare Lancine , Zhao Yueju , Folly Yawa , Chang Jinghua , Li Jinhan , Selvaraj Jonathan , Xing Fuguo , Zhou Lu , Wang Yan , Liu Yang
Published: September 2015

The authors are sorry to report that the legend of Figure 5 in their published paper [1] was incorrect. [...]
Applying a Correlation Analysis Method to Long-Term Forecasting of Power Production at Small Hydropower Plants
Authors: Li Gang , Liu Chen-Xi , Liao Sheng-Li , Cheng Chun-Tian
Published: September 2015

Forecasting long-term power production of small hydropower (SHP) plants is of great significance for coordinating with large-medium hydropower (LHP) plants. Accurate forecasting can solve the problems of waste-water and abandoned electricity and ensure the safe operation of the power system. However, it faces a series of challenges, such as lack of sufficient data, uncertainty of power generation, no regularity of a single station and poor forecasting models. It is difficult to establish a forecasting model based on classical and mature prediction models. Therefore, this paper introduces a correlation analysis method for forecasting power production of SHP plants. By analyzing the correlation between SHP and LHP plants, a safe conclusion can be drawn that the power production of SHP plants show similar interval inflow to LHP plants in the same region. So a regression model is developed to forecast power production of SHP plants by using the forecasting inflow values of LHP plants. Taking the SHP plants in Yunnan province as an example, the correlation between SHP and LHP plants in a district or county are analyzed respectively. The results show that this correlation method is feasible. The proposed forecasting method has been successfully applied to forecast long-term power production of SHP plants in the 13 districts of the Yunnan Power Grid. From the results, the rationality, accuracy and generality of this method have been verified.
El medio ambiente en la Constitucion española de 1978
Authors: Real Ferrer Gabriel
Published: September 2015

La Constitution espagnole de 1978 reconnaît le « droit de bénéficier d'un environnement adéquat ». Néanmoins, cette affirmation n'implique pas que le droit à l'environnement est inclus parmi les droits qui sont considérés comme « droits fondamentaux » ; il ne bénéficie donc pas des moyens juridictionnels de protection que la Constitution garantit à cette catégorie de droits. La Constitution considère la protection de l'environnement comme un « principe directeur » de l'action des pouvoirs publics qui s'étend également aux personnes privées. Pour l'auteur, cette interprétation est correcte. La nature des intérêts qui gravitent autour de la notion d'environnement rend impossible, au moins techniquement, de considérer leur préservation comme celle d'un « droit fondamental » classique équivalent à ceux que reconnaissent la plupart des Constitutions.

Le concept d'environnement auquel se réfère la Constitution est extrêmement large, mais il est limité par la mise en œuvre des techniques de protection. Ainsi, la préservation de l'environnement se conçoit comme un droit-devoir, basé sur la « solidarité collective » qui s'étend à toutes les personnes publiques ou privées. Comme techniques de protection, la Constitution prévoit aussi bien la réparation des dommages que la répression pénale.

Les particuliers disposent toutefois de moyens peu nombreux pour exiger le respect des législations environnementales.
Constitutional Rights to the Environment in the United Kingdom
Authors: J. Waite Andrew
Published: September 2015

Le Royaume-Uni n'ayant pas de Constitution au sens strict, il n'y existe pas non plus de protection constitutionnelle d'un droit à l'environnement. Cependant, les individus ont divers moyens de contribuer à la défense de l'environnement et de contrôler l'action des pouvoirs publics ou des entreprises sans avoir nécessairement à prouver un préjudice personnel. Ces mécanismes juridiques peuvent être regroupés en trois catégories ; le pouvoir de demander une injonction, le droit à la participation et à l'information — en particulier à l'occasion de la délivrance d'autorisations — , le droit de poursuivre pénalement les infractions à la réglementation environnementale.
Le contentieux administratif et la protection de l'environnement : le point de vue d'un magistrat
Authors: Calderaro Norbert
Published: September 2015

|S'il n'existe pas de contentieux administratif spécifique en matière d'environnement, de nombreux contentieux posent aujourd'hui au juge administratif des questions relatives à la protection de l'environnement. L'intervention du juge administratif reste classique : ce juge reste un juge du service public, de l'activité d'intérêt général exercée par une personne morale de droit public. Et son action obéit à un principe de base de notre droit public : la primauté de l'intérêt public dans le respect des libertés individuelles. Ce principe général explique notamment la diversité des régimes de responsabilité des personnes publiques en matière d'atteintes à l'environnement. Mais, devant les demandes de la société, le juge administratif a été amené à interpréter, à clarifier des notions souvent vagues posées par le législateur. On assiste parallèlement à un renouveau du plein contentieux, à une application de plus en plus fréquente du droit européen et à une prise en compte, par le juge, de certaines données scientifiques et techniques.

Le juge administratif, qui n'est ni technicien ni élu, en raison de son indépendance, est peut-être le seul à pouvoir prétendre faire œuvre, en matière environnementale, d'impartialité.
Peut-on parler de stratégie contentieuse du ministère de l'Environnement ?
Authors: Abauzit Frédéric
Published: September 2015

In order to improve the implementation of environmental legislation, the legislature has conferred a special status and powers upon administrative judges in this area. It has also sought to make it easier for associations to bring legal proceedings, but the most dynamic of these now tend to concentrate on civil/criminal proceedings, especially following the entry into force of the new Criminal Code. For its part, the environmental administration at Government level has developed spécifie procedures for handling administrative cases, particularly those involving classified facilities, in order to promote the proper implementation of the relevant texts. The Acts on Water, Waste and Quarries of 1992 and 1993 significantly enlarge the remit of the administrative judge to legal proceedings involving other polluting economic activities.
Large-voltage behavior of charge transport characteristics in nanosystems with weak electron–vibration coupling
Authors: Novotný Tomáš , Belzig Wolfgang
Published: September 2015

We study analytically the Full Counting Statistics of the charge transport through a nanosystem consisting of a few electronic levels weakly coupled to a discrete vibrational mode. In the limit of large transport voltage bias the cumulant generating function can be evaluated explicitly based solely on the intuitive physical arguments and classical master equation description of the vibration mode. We find that for the undamped vibrational modes mutual dynamical interplay between electronic and vibronic degrees of freedom leads to strongly nonlinear (in voltage) transport characteristics of the nanosystem. In particular, we find that for large voltages the k-th cumulant of the current grows as V2k to be contrasted with the linear dependence in case of more strongly externally damped and thus thermalized vibrational modes.
Exploring Student and Faculty Perceptions of Clinical Simulation: A Q-Sort Study
Authors: Landeen Janet , Pierazzo Joanna , Akhtar-Danesh Noori , Baxter Pamela , van Eijk Sylvia , Evers Courtney
Published: September 2015

Background:

Simulation learning has become a widely accepted and valuable methodology within nursing education. This study assessed whether student and faculty perceptions regarding simulation learning have changed since curricular integration of simulation activities within an undergraduate nursing program.

Method:

Q-methodology was used to identify unique and similar perspectives of 12 faculty and 21 students. Participants completed a brief demographic questionnaire and sorted statements related to beliefs about simulation-based learning.

Results:

Faculty perceptions were captured within one viewpoint—positive enthusiasts. Three student viewpoints were identified: challenge seekers, realistic embracers, and support seekers. Both students and faculty believed that simulation improved critical thinking.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that faculty should be aware of the range of student perceptions and tailor their teaching approaches accordingly to maximize student learning. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(9):485–491.]
Educating Integrated Family/Psychiatric–Mental Health Nurse Practitioners: Program Development and Evaluation
Authors: Hulme Polly A. , Houfek Julia F. , Fiandt Kathryn , Barron Cecilia , Muhlbauer Susan
Published: September 2015

Background:

This article describes the development, implementation, and outcomes of an integrated family nurse practitioner/psychiatric–mental health nurse practitioner (FNP/PMH-NP) program. The program was designed to help alleviate health professional shortages in rural areas.

Method:

Faculty from both specialties developed a 3-year integrated curriculum, with attention to course sequencing and removing redundancies. Students completed all FNP and PMH-NP specialty courses and 855 clinical hours. Specialty integration occurred during the final semester through faculty-facilitated integrated case studies and clinical preceptorships with dual-certified rural nurse practitioners.

Results:

Thirteen students completed the program between 2006 and 2014. A survey of graduates (75% response rate) demonstrated that most were dual certified, and less than half practiced in rural areas. All were very satisfied with their nurse practitioner role.

Conclusion:

The program successfully prepared graduates to care for patients across the mind–body spectrum in integrated mental health–primary care positions. More work may be needed to market the integrated role and rural practice. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(9):493–499.]
Effects of the Use of High-Fidelity Human Simulation in Nursing Education: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lee Jin , Oh Pok-Ja
Published: September 2015

Background:

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of high-fidelity human simulation (HFHS) on cognitive, affective, and psychomotor outcomes of learning.

Method:

PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Korean databases were searched. The RevMan program was used for analysis.

Results:

A meta-analysis was conducted of 26 controlled trials, with a total of 2,031 nursing students. The use of HFHS tended to have beneficial effects on cognitive and psychomotor domains of learning. In analysis of cognitive outcomes, the weighted average effect size across studies was −0.97 for problem-solving competency, −0.67 for critical thinking, and −2.15 for clinical judgment. The effect size for clinical competence of the psychomotor domain was −0.81.

Conclusion:

Use of HFHS might positively impact a high level of cognitive skill and clinical skill acquisition. Further research is required to determine the effectiveness of use of HFHS as an educational strategy to improve knowledge acquisition and communication skills. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(9):501–507.]
Nursing as a Career Choice by Hispanic/Latino College Students: A Multi-Institutional Study
Authors: Stroup Linda M. , Kuk Linda
Published: September 2015

Background:

Despite rapid growth in the Hispanic/Latino population, there is significant underrepresentation of Hispanic/Latino individuals in the nursing workforce and nursing programs. This study investigated college students’ interest in and self-efficacy for nursing as a career choice, and factors that students believe will impact their success in a nursing program.

Method:

A nonexperimental, associational research study using a survey instrument was conducted at three comprehensive, public state universities and one community college in the western United States in an area with a significant Hispanic/Latino population.

Results:

Descriptive and multivariable correlation statistical analysis suggested that college students’ interest in and self-efficacy for nursing as a career choice was similar for both Hispanic/Latino and non-Hispanic/Latino students in the sample. Perceived facilitators for success in a nursing program were identified.

Conclusion:

Findings can be used to develop strategies and programs to enhance the success of Hispanic/Latino students interested in nursing as a career choice. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(9, Suppl.):S83–S88.]
Capturing Student Transformation From a Global Service-Learning Experience: The Efficacy of Photo-Elicitation as a Qualitative Research Method
Authors: Kronk Rebecca , Weideman Yvonne , Cunningham Leah , Resick Lenore
Published: September 2015

Background:

This article describes the use of photo-elicitation as a qualitative research method that captured transformational outcomes of baccalaureate nursing students who participated in a 10-day global service-learning experience in Nicaragua.

Method:

All participants (
N
= 8) took photographs as a natural way of capturing moments, scenes, and events that occurred during their immersion experience. Four weeks after the trip, each student selected photographs that were a meaningful visual representation of their experience and participated in a semistructured interview conducted by one of the three faculty investigators.

Results:

Photo-elicitation captured the cultural, professional, and personal transformations of the students through a process that included “letting go,” “confronting reality,” and “coming to an understanding.”

Conclusion:

The use of photo-elicitation as a qualitative research method enabled a deeper, more poignant exploration of the impact of a global service-learning experience. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(9, Suppl.):S99–S102.]