bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Swept-Source OCT Angiography of Macular Telangiectasia Type 2
Authors: Thorell Mariana R. , Zhang Qinqin , Huang Yanping , An Lin , Durbin Mary K. , Laron Michal , Sharma Utkarsh , Stetson Paul F. , Gregori Giovanni , Wang Ruikang K. , Rosenfeld Philip J.
Published: October 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the central macular microvascular network in patients with macular telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel2) using optical coherence tomography (OCT)-based microangiography (OMAG).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Prospective, observational study of patients with MacTel2 evaluated using a swept-source OCT (SS-OCT) prototype. OMAG was performed using a 3 mm × 3 mm central foveal raster scan. The algorithm segmented the retina into three layers. Microvascular distribution was depicted as en face images, and qualitative information was compared to fluorescein angiography (FA) images.

RESULTS:

OMAG detected abnormal microvasculature in all MacTel2 eyes, predominantly in the middle retinal layers with neovascularization in the outer retina. These vessels correlated well with the FA alterations. The abnormal temporal, juxtafoveal microvasculature in MacTel2 became apparent as the disease progressed and in later stages tended to extend circumferentially, with anastomotic vessels temporally.

CONCLUSION:

OMAG provided detailed, depth- resolved information about the perifoveal macular microvasculature in MacTel2. In most cases, images were better using OMAG than FA. The OMAG images demonstrated that most of the leakage seen on FA appeared to arise from the abnormal perifoveal microvasculature in the middle retinal layer.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014; 45:369–380.]
Big Data X-Learning Resources Integration and Processing in Cloud Environments
Authors: Xiangsheng Kong
Published: October 2014

The cloud computing platform has good flexibility characteristics, more and more learning systems are migrated to the cloud platform. Firstly, this paper describes different types of educational environments and the data they provide. Then, it proposes a kind of heterogeneous learning resources mining, integration and processing architecture. In order to integrate and process the different types of learning resources in different educational environments, this paper specifically proposes a novel solution and massive storage integration algorithm and conversion algorithm to the heterogeneous learning resources storage and management cloud environments.
Measures to Promote Practice of Quiz and Evaluation Thereof in Blended-Learning
Authors: Yamamoto Hiroh , Nakayama Minoru , Shimizu Yasutaka
Published: October 2014

With the aim of promoting independent efforts of university students in learning, the authors created an environment where quizzes could be practiced outside class hours in Blended-Learning. As a result of instructions for the active usage of the quiz with practice promoting measures in which results of the quizzes practiced in the term were added to the record for accreditation, there were observed increase in the percentage of participation in the quizzes and substantial increase in the percentage of paper submission. Besides, the results of the written term examination were improved, not only in results concerning knowledge and understanding in threefold choice and fill-in-the-blanks questions, but also in evaluation of “Self-assertiveness,” “Multiplicity,” and “Pictorial explanation" in short essays, in particular. In the comparison according to questions of the term examination between the higher-ranking and lower-ranking groups in scores in the quizzes, the higher-ranking group achieved the better result in each of the questions. There was a positive correlation between the total number of quiz practices and the score therein. It was also suggested that the quizzes were independently practiced.
Teaching and Learning using Computers: How should We Tread on Its’ Changing Technology?
Authors: Khalid Mohd Sazali , Sutoyo Edi , Mungad Mungad , Sari Eka Novita , Herawan Tutut
Published: October 2014

Children learn quickly from their own parents and as they grow up computers offer more learning options. However they would learn better if the lessons are properly constructed using cognitive, constructivist, collaborative and technical education principles i.e., incorporating mathematics lessons on the computers. This paper reports an ‘experience’ gained by a veteran mathematics teacher in building a courseware called CDiCL using ADDIE principles. The quasi-experimental research was run in Polytechnic Kota Bharu PKB, Kelantan under Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) Malaysia among 137 students at Certificate Engineering students in March 2006 among 4 different groups within 8 weeks. It was discovered CD only group scored the highest gain score of 6 points (difference in Post Test and Pre Test) while CL (Collaborative Learning) only group scored the least 2 points. From clinical interview, many students failed to understand mathematics from the courseware because of English and behavior problems among participants but some leaders in CL group gained leadership experience demanding soft skills in understanding peers’ limited skills and anxiety at presenting mathematics problem solving. The study concluded with a framework / rubrics for teachers to be effective dealing with mixed ability group of students learning mathematics on computers.
Developing a Research-Informed Teaching Module for Learning about Electrical Circuits at Lower Secondary School Level
Authors: Taber Keith S , Ruthven Kenneth , Howe Christine , Mercer Neil , Riga Fran , Hofmann Riikka , Luthman Stefanie
Published: October 2014

This chapter discusses the design and development of a teaching module on electrical circuits for lower secondary students (11-14 year olds) studying in the context of the English National Curriculum. The module was developed as part of a project: “Effecting Principled Improvement in STEM Education” (epiSTEMe). The electricity module was designed according to general principles adopted across epiSTEMe, drawing upon research and recommendations of good practice offered in curriculum guidance and the advice offered by classroom practitioners who tested out activities in their own classrooms. The module design was informed by the constructivist perspective that each individual has to construct their own personal knowledge and so rejects notions that teaching can be understood as transfer of knowledge from a teacher or text to learners. However, the version of constructivism adopted acknowledged the central importance of social mediation of learning, both in terms of the role of a more experienced other (such as a teacher) in channeling and scaffolding the learning of students and the potential for peer mediation of learning through dialogue that requires learners to engage with enquiry processes and interrogate and critique their own understanding.
Using Multidisciplinary Research Experiences to Enhance STEM Learning through Undergraduate, Team-Based, Summer Research Projects for At-Risk Students
Authors: Yantz Jennifer , Smith Brittany D. , Rowell Ginger Holmes , Cheatham Thomas , Nelson Donald , Stephens D. Christopher , Tenpenny Elaine Bouldin
Published: October 2014

Undergraduate research can be one of the most important and influential learning experiences during a student's college career (Light, 2001). Significant retention value is achieved both through one-on-one contact with a faculty mentor (Campbell, 1997; Jacobi, 1991) and by interaction with peers in a learning community (Johnson, 2001). Colleges and universities are using undergraduate research experiences to help improve student retention, graduation, and success in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). However, undergraduate research is frequently reserved for the best and brightest students who have achieved junior or senior class status. This case study describes a team-based research experience designed for first-year, at-risk undergraduate students. For this project, the term “at-risk” is defined to be first-time, full-time freshman declared STEM majors with a weak mathematics background as measured by having an ACT-Mathematics sub score of 19 to 23, inclusive. In particular, this case study focuses on the multidisciplinary nature of some of the research projects and the benefits for the students in terms of confidence, depth of learning in STEM, and progress in understanding the scientific process.
Collaborative Teams as a Means of Constructing Knowledge in the Life Sciences
Authors: Gardner Grant E. , Walters Kristi L.
Published: October 2014

The use of small collaborative learning teams in STEM classrooms is not new to the field of education. At the undergraduate level, evidence continues to accumulate that organizing students into groups in which they engage in knowledge construction by completing active learning tasks is an effective means to achieve student-learning objectives. However, this teaching method is rarely used by postsecondary faculty, especially in large-enrollment classes. An argument for the efficacy of this method is presented in three parts. This chapter first outlines the theoretical basis for collaborative group learning. Grounded in the literature, this theory is then translated into practice by discussing evidence-based advantages and challenges to creating collaborative learning environments. The chapter concludes with a discussion of a case study examining how the first author has implemented this method of collaborative instruction with a unique means of structuring groups within a large-enrollment non-majors biology classroom.
Are You Ready for Change?
Authors: Chan Carlson , Li Janet Y. , Chen Fred G. , Chau Noel C. L.
Published: October 2014

This chapter discusses the factors that influence the decision of Guangdong residents to purchase Chinese-brand automobiles. Based on the well-known theory of planned behavior, this chapter builds a predictive model to explore the determinants of the intention of Guangdong residents to buy Chinese-brand automobiles. The findings reported in this chapter can help automobile manufacturers and distributors to formulate effective business strategies. According to 125 sets of figures, multiple regression analysis indicates that high correlation exist between two independent variables (attitude toward behavior and perceived behavioral control) and dependent variable, whereas subjective norm does not have significant correlation with intention. The authors make several corresponding managerial suggestions based on the results.
Alliance-Adding Cluster Means Icing on the Cake
Authors: Yan Zhao , Bing Wang , Qingshi Meng
Published: October 2014

For firms, entering industrial cluster means obtaining more opportunities for tacit knowledge transfer and informal communication, while forming strategic alliances can get a wider range of technical cooperation and strategic resources. Using innovation networks in the communication equipment industry of China, based on the impact of network density on innovation performance, we give firms dynamic characteristic in the geographical position to study the impact of regional location and the moderation effect of geographic proximity on the relationship between network density and innovation performance. The results of negative binomial regression method indicate that regional location do not have a significant effect on innovation performance, while geographic proximity has a significant effect on innovation performance, and geographic proximity can positively moderate the impact of network density on innovation performance. Then the authors further analyze some conditions concerning alliances of the Chinese communication equipment industry and offer some related suggestions.
Using Social Networks Sites in the Purchasing Decision Process
Authors: Miranda Francisco Javier , Rubio Sergio , Chamorro Antonio , Loureiro Sandra M. C.
Published: October 2014

The rise of Web 2.0 tools and mobile devices means that the image of the traditional consumer has to be replaced with an active, permanently connected, consumer who uses the Internet to find information about brands and to share opinions and shopping experiences with other consumers – a consumer who can be classified as a prosumer (producer + consumer). In this context it is important for marketers to know how consumers use social networks within their purchasing decision process. The present work describes an on-line survey of more than 500 Facebook users in Spain and Portugal, aimed at identifying which aspects most influence their intention to use this social network in their purchasing decisions. A structural equation model was constructed based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), in which the intended use of Facebook in purchasing decisions depends on two variables: perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, with attitude being a mediating variable. The background variables considered were aptitude, network externalities, perceived privacy protection, and social influence. The results show that the intended use of Facebook in purchasing decisions is influenced by its perceived usefulness, by social influence, and by the attitude to Facebook. In contrast, the perceived ease of use does not have such direct influence.
Motivation Monitoring and Assessment Extension for Input-Process-Outcome Game Model
Authors: Ghergulescu Ioana , Muntean Cristina Hava
Published: October 2014

This article proposes a Motivation Assessment-oriented Input-Process-Outcome Game Model (MotIPO), which extends the Input-Process-Outcome game model with game-centred and player-centred motivation assessments performed right from the beginning of the game-play. A feasibility case-study involving 67 participants playing an educational game and measuring their motivation through a questionnaire was conducted. The results have shown statistical significant difference between the motivation to play and motivation to learn, as well as statistical significant relationship between the player's motivation during the game-play and the player's initial motivation. A statistical significant increase in player's motivation to learn about the subject presented in the game was also found. These facts confirm the usefulness of assessing player's motivation from the beginning of the game-play. Furthermore, the results have shown the usefulness of the proposed model for assessing the impact of the game-play on player's motivation.
The Protagonist and Their Avatar
Authors: McCreery Michael P. , Krach S. Kathleen , Nolen Amanda
Published: October 2014

Given the active and authentic nature of Massively-Multiplayer Online Games, researchers have begun to question the use of this virtual setting as a teaching / learning tool (Barab et al., 2010; Squire, 2006). Specific findings in virtual environments show that several personal factors mediate an individual's experiences within that environment (Przybylski, Rigby, & Ryan, 2010). Although physical-world research has focused on the personal factor of personality and its influence on learning (Caprara et al., 2011; Furnham, Chamorro-Premuzic, & McDougall, 2003; Gallagher, 1996; Olesen, Thomsen, Schnieber & Tønnesvang, 2010), very little research on personality within virtual settings has been conducted. Thus, it is important to explore more about personality changes between individuals and their avatars in virtual settings. Findings from the current study show statistically different personality score for individuals and their avatars across all domains of the Five-Factor Model. However, for three of the domains, Neuroticism, Openness, and Conscientiousness, consistent patterns of difference existed. Overall implications for these findings are discussed.
Web Data Quality
Authors: Zaveri Amrapali , Maurino Andrea , Equille Laure-Berti
Published: October 2014

The standardization and adoption of Semantic Web technologies has resulted in an unprecedented volume of data being published as Linked Data (LD). However, the “publish first, refine later” philosophy leads to various quality problems arising in the underlying data such as incompleteness, inconsistency and semantic ambiguities. In this article, we describe the current state of Data Quality in the Web of Data along with details of the three papers accepted for the International Journal on Semantic Web and Information Systems' (IJSWIS) Special Issue on Web Data Quality. Additionally, we identify new challenges that are specific to the Web of Data and provide insights into the current progress and future directions for each of those challenges.
The Emergence of E-Learning Needs in Participatory Re-Design of e-Service
Authors: Di Fiore Angela , Fiore Francesca , D'Andrea Vincenzo
Published: October 2014

Several research initiatives are nowdays focusing on the idea of “smart” cities or territories, where “smart” refers to the assumption that information technology would improve the quality of life in the city. In our work, we discuss the contribution we gave to Smart Campus, a research project aimed at creating a community that would enable the emergence of a virtual campus in a university town. Our focus was to improve the quality of the students' participation to the research project. Several interesting findings emerged from the work described in this paper, the most relevant being the importance given to functionalities replacing what students currently do with ad-hoc solutions using a range of unrelated services.
SDWS
Authors: Bravo Maricela , Rodríguez José , Pascual Jorge
Published: October 2014

This paper introduces SDWS (Semantic Description of Web Services), a Web tool which generates semantic descriptions from collections of Web services. The fundamental approach of SDWS consists of the integration of a set of ontological models for the representation of different Web service description languages and models. The main contributions of this proposal are (i) a general ontological model for the representation of Web services, (ii) a set of language-specific ontological models for the representation of different Web service descriptions implementations, and (iii) a set of software modules that automatically parse Web service descriptions and produce their respective ontological representation. The design of the generic service model incorporates the common elements that all service descriptions share: a service name, a set of operations, and input and output parameters; together with other important elements that semantic models define: preconditions and effects. Experimental results show that the automatic generation of semantic descriptions from public Web services is feasible and represents an important step towards the integration of a general semantic service registry.
Web Service Clustering using a Hybrid Term-Similarity Measure with Ontology Learning
Authors: Kumara Banage T. G. S. , Paik Incheon , Chen Wuhui , Ryu Keun Ho
Published: October 2014

Clustering Web services into functionally similar clusters is a very efficient approach to service discovery. A principal issue for clustering is computing the semantic similarity between services. Current approaches use similarity-distance measurement methods such as keyword, information-retrieval or ontology based methods. These approaches have problems that include discovering semantic characteristics, loss of semantic information and a shortage of high-quality ontologies. In this paper, the authors present a method that first adopts ontology learning to generate ontologies via the hidden semantic patterns existing within complex terms. If calculating similarity using the generated ontology fails, it then applies an information-retrieval-based method. Another important issue is identifying the most suitable cluster representative. This paper proposes an approach to identifying the cluster center by combining service similarity with term frequency–inverse document frequency values of service names. Experimental results show that our term-similarity approach outperforms comparable existing approaches. They also demonstrate the positive effects of our cluster-center identification approach.
Coordinated Regulation of NK Receptor Expression in the Maturing Human Immune System
Authors: Strauss-Albee Dara M. , Horowitz Amir , Parham Peter , Blish Catherine A.
Published: October 2014

NK cells are responsible for recognizing and killing transformed, stressed, and infected cells. They recognize a set of non–Ag-specific features termed “altered self” through combinatorial signals from activating and inhibitory receptors. These NKRs are also expressed on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, B cells, and monocytes, although a comprehensive inventory of NKR expression patterns across leukocyte lineages has never been performed. Using mass cytometry, we found that NKR expression patterns distinguish cell lineages in human peripheral blood. In individuals with high levels of CD57, indicative of a mature immune repertoire, NKRs are more likely to be expressed on non-NK cells, especially CD8+ T cells. Mature NK and CD8+ T cell populations show increased diversity of NKR surface expression patterns, but with distinct determinants: mature NK cells acquire primarily inhibitory receptors, whereas CD8+ T cells attain a specific subset of both activating and inhibitory receptors, potentially imbuing them with a distinct functional role. Concurrently, monocytes show decreased expression of the generalized inhibitory receptor leukocyte Ig–like receptor subfamily b member 1, consistent with an increased activation threshold. Therefore, NKR expression is coordinately regulated as the immune system matures, resulting in the transfer of “altered self” recognition potential among leukocyte lineages. This likely reduces Ag specificity in the mature human immune system, and implies that vaccines and therapeutics that engage both its innate and adaptive branches may be more effective in the settings of aging and chronic infection.
Trichodesmium sp. clade distributions in the western North Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Rouco Mönica , Warren Hannah Joy , McGillicuddy Dennis J. , Waterbury John B. , Dyhrman Sonya T.
Published: October 2014

To better understand the factors determining Trichodesmium clade (Clade III vs. Clade I) distribution, a quantitative polymerase chain reaction method was developed and applied to a sample set from the western North Atlantic. Clade distributions were compared with a suite of physicochemical parameters on a cruise transect from Woods Hole, Massachusetts, to Barbados during the spring of 2011. Clade I comprised > 90% of the total Trichodesmium spp. population. Depth distributions of both clades were similar in waters where there was a shallow (< 20 m) mixed‐layer depth (MLD), but segregated in the water column where the MLD was deep (> 80 m). Surface abundances of both clades were higher when the MLD was < 20 m. Temperature and salinity were correlated with both clades in the data set as a whole. However, when stations influenced by a freshwater salinity anomaly were removed, dissolved inorganic phosphorus and total dissolved phosphorus correlated with Clade I cell density only. These correlations underscore the influence of phosphorus in driving Trichodesmium sp. dynamics in this region and are suggestive of niche partitioning between the two clades.
The effect of a centenary storm on the long‐lived seagrass Posidonia oceanica
Authors: Gera Alessandro , Pagès Jordi F. , Arthur Rohan , Farina Simone , Roca Guillem , Romero Javier , Alcoverro Teresa
Published: October 2014

We used the disturbance resulting from a once in a 100‐yr storm on the northwest Mediterranean coast to examine the extent of the disturbance, the tolerance thresholds to burial, and the medium‐term response of the long‐lived Posidonia oceanica seagrass. Sediment burial at 12 surveyed areas was particularly strong in shallow meadows, with 23% of their surfaces buried, on average, under more than 10 cm of sediment. In contrast, less than 5% of the meadow was affected at deeper locations. At three sites, we tracked short‐term mortality along a gradient of sediment burial. Survival response to burial was clearly nonlinear, with a significant threshold at 4–5 cm, beyond which shoot mortality was 100%. To track medium‐term potential recovery, we established permanent plots subject to three sediment burial levels (0–5, 5–10, and > 10 cm burial) in four meadows. Where the initial shoot mortality was 100%, we recorded no shoot recovery over the 4‐yr period. In the remaining plots, where some shoots remained alive, we detected either further mortality or shoot recovery of 7% per year on average. Extreme storm events can result in sudden catastrophic losses of seagrass cover in shallow P. oceanica meadows. In the long term and due to the long return time of such storms, the species may still be able to recover despite its low recovery potential. However, added anthropogenic stressors, including climate change, may seriously test the ability of long‐lived shallow seagrass ecosystems to resist high‐intensity natural disturbances and may be critical for its persistence.
How Sweet is the pacemaker?
Authors: Merinopoulos I , O’Toole S , Porter JN , Braganza D , Mistry C , Vassiliou V , Enoch DA
Published: October 2014

Pacemaker infections can be difficult to diagnose, especially when they present with non-specific symptoms and signs a long time after insertion of the device. Unidentified or partially treated low-grade chronic sepsis can result in multisystem disease processes with significant mortality and morbidity. Therefore, a high index of suspicion is required to identify the pacemaker as the source of sepsis and treat it effectively. This report describes a case of chronic pacemaker wire infection, which eventually presented with Sweet’s syndrome, a rare manifestation of infective endocarditis.
Characteristics of gravity waves resolved by ECMWF
Authors: Preusse P. , Ern M. , Bechtold P. , Eckermann S. D. , Kalisch S. , Trinh Q. T. , Riese M.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Global model data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) are analyzed for resolved gravity waves (GWs). Based on fitted 3-D wave vectors of individual waves and using the ECMWF global scale background fields, backward ray tracing from 25 km altitude is performed. Different sources such as orography, convection and winter storms are identified. It is found that due to oblique propagation waves spread widely from narrow source regions. Gravity waves which originate from regions of strong convection are frequently excited around the tropopause and have in the ECMWF model low phase and group velocities as well as very long horizontal wavelengths compared to other models and to measurements. While the total amount of momentum flux for convective GWs changes little over season, GWs generated by storms and mountain waves show large day-to-day variability, which has a strong influence also on total hemispheric fluxes; from one day to the next the total hemispheric flux may increase by a factor of 3. Implications of these results for using the ECMWF model in predicting, analyzing and interpreting global GW distributions as well as implications for seamless climate prediction are discussed.
Cloud mask via cumulative discriminant analysis applied to satellite infrared observations: scientific basis and initial evaluation
Authors: Amato U. , Lavanant L. , Liuzzi G. , Masiello G. , Serio C. , Stuhlmann R. , Tjemkes S. A.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. We introduce a classification method (cumulative discriminant analysis) of the discriminant analysis type to discriminate between cloudy and clear-sky satellite observations in the thermal infrared. The tool is intended for the high-spectral-resolution infrared sounder (IRS) planned for the geostationary METEOSAT (Meteorological Satellite) Third Generation platform and uses IASI (Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer) data as a proxy. The cumulative discriminant analysis does not introduce biases intrinsic with the approximation of the probability density functions and is flexible enough to adapt to different strategies to optimize the cloud mask. The methodology is based on nine statistics computed from IASI spectral radiances, which exploit the high spectral resolution of the instrument and which effectively summarize information contained within the IASI spectrum. A principal component analysis prior step is also introduced, which makes the problem more consistent with the statistical assumptions of the methodology. An initial assessment of the scheme is performed based on global and regional IASI real data sets and cloud masks obtained from AVHRR (Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer) and SEVIRI (Spinning Enhanced Visible and Infrared Imager) imagers. The agreement with these independent cloud masks is generally well above 80 %, except at high latitudes in the winter seasons.
Simulation study of the plasma-brake effect
Authors: Janhunen P.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Plasma brake is a thin, negatively biased tether that has been proposed as an efficient concept for deorbiting satellites and debris objects from low Earth orbit. We simulate the interaction with the ionospheric plasma ram flow with the plasma-brake tether by a high-performance electrostatic particle in cell code to evaluate the thrust. The tether is assumed to be perpendicular to the flow. We perform runs for different tether voltage, magnetic-field orientation and plasma-ion mass. We show that a simple analytical thrust formula reproduces most of the simulation results well. The interaction with the tether and the plasma flow is laminar (i.e. smooth and not turbulent) when the magnetic field is perpendicular to the tether and the flow. If the magnetic field is parallel to the tether, the behaviour is unstable and thrust is reduced by a modest factor. The case in which the magnetic field is aligned with the flow can also be unstable, but does not result in notable thrust reduction. We also correct an error in an earlier reference. According to the simulations, the predicted thrust of the plasma brake is large enough to make the method promising for low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite deorbiting. As a numerical example, we estimate that a 5 km long plasma-brake tether weighing 0.055 kg could produce 0.43 mN breaking force, which is enough to reduce the orbital altitude of a 260 kg object mass by 100 km over 1 year.
Variability of moisture recycling using a precipitationshed framework
Authors: Keys P. W. , Barnes E. A. , van der Ent R. J. , Gordon L. J.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Recent research has revealed that upwind land-use changes can significantly influence downwind precipitation. The precipitationshed (the upwind ocean and land surface that contributes evaporation to a specific location's precipitation) may provide a boundary for coordination and governance of these upwind–downwind water linkages. We aim to quantify the variability of the precipitationshed boundary to determine whether there are persistent and significant sources of evaporation for a given region's precipitation. We identify the precipitationsheds for three regions (i.e., western Sahel, northern China, and La Plata) by tracking atmospheric moisture with a numerical water transport model (Water Accounting Model-2layers, or WAM-2layers) using gridded fields from both the ERA-Interim (European Reanalysis Interim) and MERRA (Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications) reanalyses. Precipitationshed variability is examined first by diagnosing the persistence of the evaporation contribution and second with an analysis of the spatial variability of the evaporation contribution. The analysis leads to three key conclusions: (1) a core precipitationshed exists; (2) most of the variance in the precipitationshed is explained by a pulsing of more or less evaporation from the core precipitationshed; and (3) the reanalysis data sets agree reasonably well, although the degree of agreement is regionally dependent. Given that much of the growing-season evaporation arises from within a core precipitationshed that is largely persistent in time, we conclude that the precipitationshed can potentially provide a useful boundary for governing land-use change on downwind precipitation.
Evaluating data quality collected by volunteers for first-level inspection of hydraulic structures in mountain catchments
Authors: Cortes Arevalo V. J. , Charrière M. , Bossi G. , Frigerio S. , Schenato L. , Bogaard T. , Bianchizza C. , Pasuto A. , Sterlacchini S.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Volunteers have been trained to perform first-level inspections of hydraulic structures within campaigns promoted by civil protection of Friuli Venezia Giulia (Italy). Two inspection forms and a learning session were prepared to standardize data collection on the functional status of bridges and check dams. In all, 11 technicians and 25 volunteers inspected a maximum of six structures in Pontebba, a mountain community within the Fella Basin. Volunteers included civil-protection volunteers, geosciences and social sciences students. Some participants carried out the inspection without attending the learning session. Thus, we used the mode of technicians in the learning group to distinguish accuracy levels between volunteers and technicians. Data quality was assessed by their accuracy, precision and completeness. We assigned ordinal scores to the rating scales in order to get an indication of the structure status. We also considered performance and feedback of participants to identify corrective actions in survey procedures. Results showed that volunteers could perform comparably to technicians, but only with a given range in precision. However, a completeness ratio (question/parameter) was still needed any time volunteers used unspecified options. Then, volunteers' ratings could be considered as preliminary assessments without replacing other procedures. Future research should consider advantages of mobile applications for data-collection methods.
Secondary lahar hazard assessment for Villa la Angostura, Argentina, using Two-Phase-Titan modelling code during 2011 Cordón Caulle eruption
Authors: Córdoba G. , Villarosa G. , Sheridan M. F. , Viramonte J. G. , Beigt D. , Salmuni G.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. This paper shows the results of secondary lahar modelling in Villa La Angostura town (Neuquén-Argentina) based on the Two-Phase-Titan modelling computer code, which aimed to provide decision makers a useful tool to assess lahar hazard during the 2011 Puyehue-Cordón Caulle Volcanic Complex eruption. Possible occurrence of secondary lahars that could reach the city was analized. The performance of the Two-Phase-Titan model using 15 m resolution DEMs developed from optical satellite images and from radar satellite images was evaluated. The output of these modellings showed inconsistencies that, based on field observations, were attributed to bad adjustment of DEMs to real topography. Further testing of results using more accurate radar based 10 m DEM, proved more realistic predictions. The procedure allowed to simulate the path of flows from Florencia, Las Piedritas and Colorado creeks, which are the most influencing streams in Villa La Angostura. The output of the modelling is a valuable tool for city planning and risk management especially considering the glacial geomorphology features of the region, the strong urban development growth and the land occupation tendencies observed in last decade in Villa La Angostura and its surroundings.
Enter and Be Welcome: Doorways in the Old City of Bethlehem, Palestine
Authors: Ghadban Shadi Sami , Sahouri Shireen Fares
Published: October 2014

The contribution of doorways to our understanding of the history and function of a building and its historical context cannot be overstated. For this study, the doorways of Bethlehem were examined. This city has played an important role in the history of Palestine and has the distinction of being the birthplace of Jesus. The identification and protection of its unique doorways is imperative to preserving its cultural identity and historical authenticity. Consequently, the main objective here was to study the Old City of Bethlehem; document and analyze the condition, form, types, and characteristics of its doorways; and assess their value as historic forms that might be considered within a process of safeguarding and adapted use.
Efeitos do exercício físico na aptidão física de crianças com sobrepeso
Authors: Espíndola Janine Aryadine , Capistrano Renata , Alexandre Juliano Maestri , Silva Juliana Da , Beltrame Thais Silva
Published: October 2014

Introdução: Exercícios físicos têm-se mostrado eficientes para a promoção de perda de peso, mudanças positivas na composição corporal e melhora na aptidão física geral. Objetivo: Verificar os efeitos de um programa de exercício físico na aptidão física de crianças com sobrepeso e/ou obesidade. Métodos: Selecionaram-se crianças de sete a dez anos de idade de um programa de intervenção, na cidade de Florianópolis (SC). Para avaliação da aptidão física, foi utilizada a bateria de testes motores do Programa Esporte Brasil. Calculou-se o IMC conforme padrões da Organização Mundial da Saúde. Resultados: Ao avaliar a aptidão física relacionada à saúde, verificou-se que houve melhora significativa no índice de massa corporal e na força/resistência abdominal. Aptidão física relacionada ao desempenho mostrou diferença significante no teste de agilidade. Conclusão: Identificaram-se efeitos positivos do programa de intervenção proposto, referentes às aptidões físicas relacionadas à saúde e ao desempenho motor nas crianças analisadas. Sugerem-se mais estudos com estratégias para combater a obesidade infantil.
Efeitos dos exercícios físicos no sono de pacientes com síndrome da fibromialgia: revisão sistemática
Authors: Steffens Ricardo De Azevedo Klumb , Andrade Alexandro , Grisard Felippe , Dominski Fábio Hech , Casagrande Pedro De Orleans
Published: October 2014

Introdução: Um dos tratamentos recomendados para a síndrome da fibromialgia é a prática de exercício físico, o qual mantido regularmente pode melhorar a qualidade do sono desta população. Objetivo: Verificar por meio de revisão sistemática na literatura os efeitos dos exercícios físicos no sono de pacientes com fibromialgia. Métodos: Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática nas bases eletrônicas de dados Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), PubMed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) e Science Direct. O processo de revisão seguiu as diretrizes propostas pelo protocolo PRISMA (Group Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). Resultados: Foram identificados 44 estudos, destes nove atenderam os critérios de inclusão e foram selecionados. Ocorreu melhora significativa na qualidade do sono para pacientes com fibromialgia que realizaram exercícios aeróbios, alongamentos musculares, fortalecimento muscular, exercício em piscina e tai chi. Conclusões: Os exercícios físicos pesquisados melhoraram a qualidade do sono em pacientes com síndrome da fibromialgia.
Efeito agudo do alongamento estático sobre a potência muscular em atletas de futebol feminino sub-17
Authors: Toledo Luí , Bentes Claúdio Melibeu , Miranda Humberto , Palma Alexandre , Corrêa Neto Victor Gonçalves
Published: October 2014

Introdução: Pouco se sabe sobre os efeitos agudos do alongamento estático sobre a potência muscular em esportistas. Objetivo: Analisar o efeito agudo do alongamento estático sobre a produção de potência muscular em atletas de futebol feminino sub-17. Métodos: Onze jogadoras foram divididas em dois grupos. No grupo S0, as jogadoras executaram um salto para mensurar a potência muscular após o alongamento, já no S10, saltaram dez minutos após o alongamento. Para medida de potência, foi utilizada uma plataforma de salto. Resultados: O alongamento exerceu efeito deletério quando realizado imediatamente após o alongamento estático (P < 0,05), mas dez minutos após o alongamento não foi observado tal efeito (P > 0,05). Conclusão: O alongamento estático exerce efeito negativo sobre a potência muscular solicitada imediatamente após o alongamento, contudo, um intervalo de dez minutos entre o alongamento e a solicitação de potência é suficiente para que não ocorra efeito deletério significativo.
Omyl, nebo úmysl? Analýza neplatných hlasů v olomouckém kraji
Authors: Kudrnáč Aleš , Lysek Jakub , Rejman Daniel
Published: October 2014

This article deals with the phenomenon of invalid voting which has appeared in regional elections in the Olomouc region in the Czech Republic. First, contemporary theories of invalid voting are introduced. Second, the given hypotheses, which include both institutional and socio-economic factors that, according to the theories, contribute to higher levels of invalid voting, are tested. Statistical analysis such as linear regression is employed in the research. The dataset is comprised of municipalities (cases) in which regional elections were held. The results show that higher levels of invalid voting are associated with concurrent elections (elections to the regional assembly and elections to the upper house (the Senate) of the Czech Parliament) in those municipalities in which residents are older and less well-educated. If regional elections are held without concurring elections, socio-economic variables have a smaller effect on invalid voting. Therefore, the state authorities should consider a revision of respective electoral law and simplify the electoral process involved in concurrent elections.
John Connelly. From Enemy to Brother: The Revolution in Catholic Teaching on the Jews, 1933-1965
Authors: Rioli Maria Chiara
Published: October 2014

No abstract is available.
Jesper Svartvik and Jakob Wirén, Eds. Religious Stereotyping and Interreligious Relations
Authors: Peace Jennifer
Published: October 2014

No abstract is available.
A Time to Deconstruct: Refining the Work of Jewish-Christian Engagement
Authors: Lawrence Beatrice
Published: October 2014

No abstract is available.
L’amitié, ou l’impossible politique
Authors: Bernier Émilie
Published: October 2014

L’article s’intéresse au traitement original du thème de l’amitié dans la problématique de la vie affective développée dans le sillage d’une certaine phénoménologie, dont les toutes premières articulations se trouvent – paradoxalement – chez Heidegger. La portée n’en est mesurée qu’à la lumière d’une interprétation par Agamben et quelques représentants de la phénoménologie française récente, lectures qui permettent à son herméneutique d’échapper à la critique formulée par Arendt quant à son refus obstiné de la pluralité. Décelant dans cette littérature une notion d’amitié s’imposant comme tâche politique, l’article interroge son potentiel en vue d’une nécessaire pensée de la communauté.
Influence of environmental changes on picophytoplankton and bacteria in Daya Bay, South China Sea
Authors: Wu Meilin-Lin , Wang Yu-Tu , Wang You-Shao , Sun Fu-Lin
Published: October 2014

Environmental changes driven by intense human disturbance and natural processes govern the abundance and distribution characteristics of two picophytoplankton groups (Synechococcus and picoeukaryotes). Picophytoplancton and high DNA (HDNA) and low DNA (LDNA) bacterial groups, identified by flow cytometry, were assessed during the autumn monsoon transition period in Daya Bay (South China Sea). The abundance of Synechococcus and picoeukaryotes ranged from 2.16 × 104 to 1.45 × 105 cell mL–1 and from 0.78 × 103 to 7.95 × 103 cell mL–1, respectively. The abundance of HDNA bacteria in surface water (mean: 5.58 × 105 cell mL–1) was greater than in bottom water (mean: 3.74 × 105 cell mL–1), with significant difference (n = 12, P = 0.05). The difference in LDNA abundances between surface (mean: 7.06 × 105 cell mL–1) and bottom (mean: 4.83 × 105 cell mL–1) waters was insignificant (n = 12, P > 0.05). The results of the principal component analysis showed that both picophytoplankton (Synechococcus and picoeukaryotes) and bacteria (HDNA and LDNA) were positively related to nutrients (NO3-N, NH4-N, and SiO3-Si). Three subsystems in the bay were identified as follows: the west and east parts, the central and northwest parts, and the mouth and central part.
Occurrence of solar flares viewed with GPS: Statistics and fractal nature
Authors: Monte‐Moreno Enrique , Hernández‐Pajares Manuel
Published: October 2014

In this paper we describe the statistical properties of the EUV solar flux sudden variation. The solar flux variation is modeled as a time series characterized by the subsolar Vertical Total Electron Content double difference in time, computed with dual‐frequency GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) measurements in the daylight hemisphere (GNSS solar flare indicator rate parameter). We propose a model that explains its characteristics and the forecasting limitations. The sudden overionization pattern is assumed to be of solar origin, and the data used in this study was collected during the last solar cycle. The two defining characteristics of this time series are an extreme variability (i.e., in a solar cycle one can find events at 400σ from the mean value) and a temporal correlation that is independent of the timescale. We give a characterization of a model that explains the empirical results and properties such as (a) the persistence and presence of bursts of solar flares and (b) their long tail peak values of the solar flux variation. We show that the solar flux variation time series can be characterized by a fractional Brownian model for the long‐term dependence, and a power law distribution for the extreme values that appear in the time series.
New total electron content retrieval improves SMOS sea surface salinity
Authors: Vergely Jean‐Luc , Waldteufel Philippe , Boutin Jacqueline , Yin Xiaobin , Spurgeon Paul , Delwart Steven
Published: October 2014

The European Space Agency (ESA)‐led SMOS (Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity) mission aims at monitoring both soil moisture (SM) and ocean surface salinity (OS) on a global scale. The SMOS instrument is a microwave interferometric radiometer, which provides visibilities, from which brightness temperatures (TB) maps are reconstructed in the spacecraft' antenna reference frame. In this study, we investigate how to improve the retrieval of salinity thanks to a better knowledge of the ionospheric total electron content (TEC). We show how both the SMOS bias correction (the so‐called Ocean Target Transformation, OTT) and the half orbit TEC profile can be obtained from SMOS third Stokes parameter A3 using a location on the SMOS field of view (FOV) where the sensitivity of TB to TEC is highest. The resulting TEC global maps compare favorably with those built from the International Global navigation satellite system Service observations. TEC values obtained from A3 are next used to optimize the OTT estimation for every polarization, and proved to provide more stable values. Finally, improvements achieved in the salinity retrieved from SMOS data are reported.
Multi‐Shell Porous TiO2 Hollow Nanoparticles for Enhanced Light Harvesting in Dye‐sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Hwang Sun Hye , Yun Juyoung , Jang Jyongsik
Published: October 2014

An optimized configuration for nanomaterials in working electrodes is vital to the high performance of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Here, a fabrication method is introduced for multi‐shell TiO2 hollow nanoparticles (MS‐TiO2‐HNPs) via a sol–gel reaction, calcination, and an etching process. The prepared uniform MS‐HNPs have a high surface area (ca. 171 m2 g−1), multireflection, and facile electrolyte circulation and diffusion. During the MS‐HNP fabrication process, the amount of SiO2 precursor and H2O under reaction has a significant effect on aggregation and side reactions. The etching process to obtain pure TiO2 is influenced by anatase crystallinity. Additionally, single‐shell (SS)‐TiO2‐HNPs and double‐shell (DS)‐TiO2‐HNPs are synthesized as a control. The MS‐TiO2‐HNPs exhibit a high surface area and enhance light reflectance, compared with the SS‐ and DS‐TiO2‐HNPs of the same size. The power conversion efficiency of the optimized MS‐TiO2‐HNP‐based DSSCs is 9.4%, compared with the 8.0% efficiency demonstrated by SS‐TiO2‐HNP‐DSSCs (a 17.5% improvement). These results enable the utilization of multifunctional MS‐HNPs in energy material applications, such as lithium ion batteries, photocatalysts, water‐splitting, and supercapacitors.