bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Educación Global na Educación Secundaria Obligatoria: unha investigación diagnóstica nos centros educativos de Galicia
Authors: Serantes Araceli , DePalma Renée , Cotelo M. Dolores , Iglesias José Luis , Digón Patricia , Rivera Begoña , Becerra Carmen , Caride María , Lampón Ana
Published: November 2015

O Proxecto de Investigación “Explorando as posibilidades de estender a dimensión global da educación para o desenvolvemento na ESO. Unha investigación diagnóstica en centros educativos” é unha proposta de investigación colaborativa entre o Grupo de Investigación Política Educativa, Historia e Sociedade da Universidade da Coruña e Solidariedade Internacional de Galicia, financiado pola Xunta de Galicia (PR804A 2014/07). O obxectivo é identificar as necesidades do profesorado e do centro educativo que colabora nos proxectos de Educación para o Desenvolvemento (EpD) de ONGDs para que estas accións sexan máis significativas para o alumnado. Tomamos como referencia a experiencia do Reino Unido. Trátase dunha investigación cualitativa para o quese aplicaron distintas estratexias de recollida de datos arredor de tres obxectivos: (i) saber como integraron no Reino Unido a dimensión global no curriculum e cales son as súas porpostas didácticas, (ii) coñecer outras experiencias , e (iii) desvelar cales son os intereses e necesidades do profesorado galego para integrar a dimensión global. Para abordar estos obxectivos utilizáronse técnicas que permitisen comprender as experiencias sociais nos escenarios naturais desde a perspectiva dos protagonistas, en concreto: 1. Análise de documentos para caracterizar a dimensión global no curriculo e nas propostas didácticas do Reino Unido, estructurando en unidades de significado as distintas fontes documentais a través de categorías. 2. Microestudos de caso en 6 centros educativos para coñecer os intereses e necesidades do profesorado individualmente e do centro no seu conxunto, mediante entrevistas –de corte narrativo e semiestructuradas– a tres tipos de informantes (membros do equipo directivo, responsables das bibliotecas e profesorado que xa desenvolve actividades de EpD nas aulas). 3. Os grupos focais para contrastar as distintas realidades dos centros educativos e contrastar posicionamentos de forma simultánea. 4. Entrevistas semiestructuradas a persoas expertas en Educación Global e 5. Elaboración de forma colaborativa dunha plataforma. Como estratexia xeral de análise aplicouse a codificación temática. A meta do estudo é proporcionar descripcións e interpretacións, e non xeralizacións, que permitan a outros docentes aplicar algunhas das conclusións e recomendacións a súa experiencia nas aulas. Con esta finalidade creouse unha plataforma dixital para facilitar o acceso a bibliografía, compartir experieincias e fomentar o intercambio.
Geophysical prospecting of ground water in crystalline rocks in an arid Region of Northeast Brazil
Authors: Saraiva Adrianne de L. , Demetrio José Geilson A. , Feitosa Edilton Carneiro , Mariano Gorki , Neves Sérgio Pacheco
Published: November 2015

Perfis de resistividade horizontal foram conduzidos em área de rochas Precambrianas ígneas e metamórficas na região semi-árida do Estado de Pernambuco, nordeste do Brasil, com a finalidade de contribuir para a analise dos fatores que controlam a grande variação na vazão em poços localizados a pequena distancia entre si. Dezesseis linhas de resistividade paralelas e com direção 345 Az e espaçamento de 15 metros foram conduzidas, com separação de 15 metros entre estações de medidas ao longo das linhas. Os resultados mostraram que as zonas de condutividade podem não estar diretamente relacionadas a zonas de maior densidade de fraturas e, consequentemente, maior saturação de água. As feições litológicas e estruturais, que não foram observadas diretamente em função da cobertura de solo possuem grande importância. Os perfis geofísicos associados a trabalho de campo de detalhe, através de observações em cacimbas escavadas para suprimento de água mostrou que para este caso a elevada capacidade de armazenamento de água subterrânea esta relacionada a dobramentos e ao sistema de fraturas em gnaisses intercalados com sheets de rochas graníticas.
Livro Didático e Aprendizado de Leitura no Início do Ensino Fundamental
Authors: Oliveira Lúcia Helena Gazóle de
Published: November 2015

Considerando que o modelo longitudinal é o mais apropriado para aferir o valor agregado

pelos estabelecimentos escolares aos seus alunos, o artigo apresenta resultados de

investigação relacionados às características das salas de aula eficazes. Foi pesquisado o

efeito do uso do livro didático de Língua Portuguesa no aprendizado de 176 turmas de

escolas municipais, federais e privadas do Rio de Janeiro que participaram da pesquisa

Geres; o tempo de experiência do professor com o referido livro; e a menção recebida no

Programa Nacional do Livro Didático (PNDL), em 2004. Destacam-se, entre as evidências,

maior valor agregado pelos alunos que utilizaram livro didático, e benefícios ainda maiores

para estudantes cujos professores faziam uso do mesmo livro há mais de dois anos.

Articulam-se os resultados com algumas das características apontadas pela literatura como

promotoras de eficácia escolar.
Avaliação de um programa para o ensino de leitura e escrita
Authors: Reis Thaize de Souza , Souza Deisy das Graças de , Rose Júlio César de
Published: November 2015

O presente estudo é parte de uma pesquisa mais ampla, que teve por objetivo avaliar a eficácia de um programa informatizado para o ensino individualizado de leitura e escrita e sua efetividade quando implementado em escolas, pelas próprias professoras. O estudo foi conduzido com 64 alunos que não estavam aprendendo a ler e escrever na sala de aula e que mostraram ausência de leitura em uma avaliação de pré-teste. Foi utilizado um delineamento de grupo em que o Grupo Experimental (N=38) foi exposto ao programa de ensino de leitura (uma sequência de 17 passos de ensino intercalados com 15 passos de avaliações periódicas), e o Grupo Controle (N=26) a um programa similar, mas que ensinava somente relações entre palavras ditadas e figuras. Os escores de leitura e de ditado no pós-teste foram acurados e significativamente maiores no Grupo Experimental. Os resultados replicaram e estenderam os resultados de laboratório, o que permite sugerir o emprego do programa de ensino como uma atividade suplementar ao currículo escolar para ensinar alunos que apresentam dificuldades com os procedimentos convencionais de sala de aula.
Parâmetros da secagem da banana pacovan e caracterização físico-química da farinha de banana verde
Authors: Pires Vanusia Cavalcanti França , Silva Flávio Luiz Honorato , Souza Rayane Maria Silva
Published: November 2015

O Nordeste do Brasil é responsável pela maior produção de bananas do país, com cerca de 2,862 milhões de ton. em 2012, entretanto, as altas temperaturas da região são responsáveis por expressivas perdas deste fruto in natura. A banana pode ser processada no estágio de maturação verde e submetida a técnicas de secagem visando a obtenção de produtos com maior vida de prateleira. Este trabalho apresenta os parâmetros cinéticos envolvidos na secagem convectiva da banana Pacovan verde e a obtenção do produto denominado farinha de banana verde (FBV). Foi realizado um planejamento fatorial completo (22) com número de experimentos de 2n + 3, resultando em sete tratamentos. As variáveis reais foram temperatura (50; 60 e 700C) e espessura (5,0; 7,5 e 10,0 mm) e para análise dos resultados, foi utilizado a metodologia da superfície de resposta através do software Statistic for Windows versão 5.0. Foram aplicados os modelos de Page e de Henderson & Pabis para os parâmetros cinéticos da secagem. Foram determinados os parâmetros pH, acidez titulável, sólidos solúveis, umidade, proteína, lipídios, fibra bruta e cinzas, na polpa da banana in natura e na farinha de banana verde. Os modelos foram bem representativos para cinco dos sete tratamentos. As respostas (teor de água final e tempo de secagem) foram estatisticamente significativas ao nível de 95% de confiança. Para espessura fixada em 5,0 mm e temperatura a 700C obtém-se os menores tempos de equilíbrio na secagem.  A farinha de banana verde apresentou textura fina, coloração bege claro, insípida e inodora.
Long‐term individual foraging site fidelity—why some gannets don't change their spots
Authors: Wakefield Ewan D. , Cleasby Ian R. , Bearhop Stuart , Bodey Thomas W. , Davies Rachel D. , Miller Peter I. , Newton Jason , Votier Stephen C. , Hamer Keith C.
Published: November 2015

Many established models of animal foraging assume that individuals are ecologically equivalent. However, it is increasingly recognized that populations may comprise individuals who differ consistently in their diets and foraging behaviors. For example, recent studies have shown that individual foraging site fidelity (IFSF, when individuals consistently forage in only a small part of their population's home range) occurs in some colonial breeders. Short‐term IFSF could result from animals using a win–stay, lose–shift foraging strategy. Alternatively, it may be a consequence of individual specialization. Pelagic seabirds are colonial central‐place foragers, classically assumed to use flexible foraging strategies to target widely dispersed, spatiotemporally patchy prey. However, tracking has shown that IFSF occurs in many seabirds, although it is not known whether this persists across years. To test for long‐term IFSF and to examine alternative hypotheses concerning its cause, we repeatedly tracked 55 Northern Gannets (Morus bassanus) from a large colony in the North Sea within and across three successive breeding seasons. Gannets foraged in neritic waters, predictably structured by tidal mixing and thermal stratification, but subject to stochastic, wind‐induced overturning. Both within and across years, coarse to mesoscale (tens of kilometers) IFSF was significant but not absolute, and foraging birds departed the colony in individually consistent directions. Carbon stable isotope ratios in gannet blood tissues were repeatable within years and nitrogen ratios were also repeatable across years, suggesting long‐term individual dietary specialization. Individuals were also consistent across years in habitat use with respect to relative sea surface temperature and in some dive metrics, yet none of these factors accounted for IFSF. Moreover, at the scale of weeks, IFSF did not decay over time and the magnitude of IFSF across years was similar to that within years, suggesting that IFSF is not primarily the result of win–stay, lose–shift foraging. Rather, we hypothesize that site familiarity, accrued early in life, causes IFSF by canalizing subsequent foraging decisions. Evidence from this and other studies suggests that IFSF may be common in colonial central‐place foragers, with far‐reaching consequences for our attempts to understand and conserve these animals in a rapidly changing environment.
The Influence of MOOC in the Cultivation of the College Students of Electrical Engineering Based on the Cloud Platform and Moodle
Authors: Yin Yanyan
Published: November 2015

This paper explores the influence of MOOC for the improvement of college students of electrical engineering
based on the cloud platform and Moodle. MOOC-‘Massive Open Online Class’ is a new way of providing education
along with the integration of network information technology and the educational teaching. It is widely recognized and
favored because it has some advantages, such as being large- scale, none spatial-temporal constraint, free open source,
which can provide new knowledge acquisition mode for learners. Electrical specialty is the main subject in universities of
technology and its graduates are the backbone of the national power system, as well as future builders and successors of
the state. The significance of this paper is to make good use of the effective platform of MOOC to produce outstanding
electrical students.
Recognition of Pole Piece Defects of Lithium Battery Based on Sparse Decomposition
Authors: Chen Gong , Lou Xilu , Li Chunxiang , Zhu Xifang , Cheng Xu , Xu Qingquan
Published: November 2015

To study surface denoising of lithium battery film to extract feature effectively. The best atomic function by
sparse decomposition is acquired by iteration under added noise, gaussian noise, salt and pepper noise, additive and multiplicative
noise. Terminating iteration value is got by observation and used to filter under specific background noise. Experiment
shows sparse decomposition denoising performance is better than the median filter, sparse decomposition is
good for detection of lithium battery film defects.
Research on AC Asynchronous Motor Vector Control Speed Control System Based on Labview
Authors: Ren-Yin Song , Guo-Xiang Liang
Published: November 2015

During the process of using traditional particle swarm optimization (PSO) to identify electric parameters, the
algorithm can be easily caught in locally optimal solution, thus leading to relatively large identification result error. Therefore,
the article proposes a simulated annealing particle swarm optimization (SA-PSO) algorithm to integrate the advantages,
namely the strong global optimization capability of simulated annealing (SA) algorithm and the fast convergence
speed of PSO algorithm, in order to improve the traditional PSO algorithm, and uses simulated annealing principle
to determine inertia weight of PSO algorithm. Meanwhile, DFIG with the unit capacity of 1.5MW has been taken as the
research object for simulation analysis. The test system employs LabVIEW software for experiment design, and the result
shows: compared with the identification result of traditional PSO algorithm, SA-PSO algorithm can rapidly and accurately
identify DFIG electric parameters and the identification result has higher precision.
Research on the Prediction Model of Material Cost Based on Data Mining
Authors: Shenyang Liu , Qi Gao , Zhen Li , Si Li , Zhiwei Li
Published: November 2015

Material cost prediction should be based on the scientific mathematical models so that the influence of
subjective factors on the quota and other indicators of decomposition can be reduced. This paper analyzes the particle
swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to optimize the parameters of support vector machine and establishes the prediction
model of material cost after preprocessing the actual data and uses the support vector regression (SVR) machine to carry
out data mining. In the forecasting process, the total cost of material is first predicted and the predicted results are then
adjusted with the actual value, and finally, the relative errors are tested. The result indicates that the forecasting effect is
fulfilled.
The Design and Application of Mechanical Automation Technology in
Food Factory Network Management System Based on Fractional
Algorithm
Authors: Xi Xu
Published: November 2015

With development of mechanical and electronic technology, mechanical automation technology plays an
important role in many areas. Because of high demand for food safety, mechanical automation technology in food factory
is used widely. But there still is gap with advanced countries, mainly in automation software design. Through designing
the automation monitoring system of food packaging production line, general process of automation control software
design is introduced. And the results shows current machines are potential to work automatically and efficiently and
produce goods with low lost and high quality.
Newly revealed features of fracture toughness behavior of spot welded dual phase steel sheets for automotive bodies
Authors: Sevim Ibrahim
Published: November 2015

Fracture toughness is one of the parameters, which are used to estimate the fatigue life of resistance spot-welded (RSW) joints. A spot-welded pair is affected by the shear stress of the weld zone when it is exposed to tensile load. Repetitive loads reduce the fatigue life of the spot weld, and the material splits at the spot-welded region. This study investigates the effect of welding current, weld time and nucleus size ratios on the fracture toughness of RSW of galvanized DP450 steels having 1.0 mm thickness. The specimens were joined by spot welding at different welding currents and times. Welding processes were carried out using 3, 5, 7 and 9 kA welding current and 10, 20, 30 and 40 cycles (1 cycle = 0.02 s) weld time and the electrode pressure was fixed at 600 MPa. All series of specimens were exposed to tensile shear test in order to determine the fracture toughness. The fracture toughnesses for all series of RSW joints were calculated by using the formula given in the literature. The nugget diameters, core sizes and their heights were measured via an optical microscope. The Vickers microhardness measurement was carried out on the weld nugget, heat affected zone (HAZ) and base metal. Nucleus size ratios were calculated. The results of the study demonstrated that the fracture toughness of RSW depended not only on the nugget diameter D, but also sheet thickness t, tensile rupture force F, hardness H and nucleus size ratios hn/dn.
Influence of repeated tempering on the machinability and microstructure of an AISI 52100 steel
Authors: Tan Engin , Ovali Ismail , Mavi Ahmet , Kaplan Mücahit , Okay Şenol
Published: November 2015

The effects of repeated tempering process on the microstructure and machinability of AISI 52100 steel in terms of cutting force, cylindricity and surface roughness were investigated in the present study. Specimens were annealed at 850 °C for 60 minutes. The specimens were then rapidly quenched in oil. Quenched samples were tempered at various tempering temperatures (175, 225, 300 and 400 °C) and numbers of passes (1 and 2) in a tempering furnace. Machining tests were carried out at various cutting speeds (30, 45, 60 and 70 m × min−1), various feed rates (0.15, 0.20 and 0.25 mm × rev−1) and at a constant depth of cut at 0,4 mm after repeated tempering. The experimental results show that repeated tempering temperature and number of passes significantly affect microstructure and machinability of AISI 52100 steel. The hardness of the AISI 52100 steel decreases with increasing number of temperings and temperature. The lowest cutting force was obtained at the highest cutting speed and the lowest feed rates. The machinability of AISI 52100 can be optimized by repeated tempering heat treatment.
Consideration of hydrogen transport in press-hardened 22MnB5
Authors: Kuhlmann Matthias , Schwedler Olaf , Holtschke Niels , Jüttner Sven
Published: November 2015

The increasing use of hot stamped high strength steels like 22MnB5 (1.5528) for complex crash relevant structural components in the vehicle body, and the problem of hydrogen-assisted damage have gained increasing importance in the automotive industry. In the high strength category, hot stamped quenched and tempered steels (tensile strength up to 1600 MPa) are under unfavorable conditions for potential risk of hydrogen embrittlement, e. g., at elevated hydrogen input, in the presence of increased tensions, and in the further processing of these steels. Peculiarities of boron-alloyed quenched and tempered steel are coating systems that are applied to the steel substrate prior to hot stamping and they serve as a protection against scaling during austenitization. These coating systems, aluminum-silicon (+AS150) and zinc (+Z140) which are most commonly used, have significant influence on the diffusion and desorption of diffusible hydrogen in thin 22MnB5 sheets. The investigations of the hydrogen transport described in this paper are carried out by thermal desorption analysis (TDA). This measurement method allows the determination of activation energies and pre-exponential diffusion coefficients of hydrogen for the different coating variants of 22MnB5 by different temperature regimes (heating rates). Furthermore, the corresponding diffusion coefficients of the studied states are determined. Based on these results, an estimate of desorption is carried out, and then empirically tested by isothermal analyzes.
Processing of Saudi talc ore for filler industries – Part 2: Magnetic separation and flotation
Authors: Ahmed Hussin A. M.
Published: November 2015

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has huge low grade talc deposits with high iron content (7.63 % Fe2O3) and low silica content (55.43 % SiO2). This paper aims at investigating the amenability of processing the ore to meet filler specifications. This was firstly tried using wet or dry magnetic separation. Secondly, the ore was upgraded using flotation. In applying magnetic separation technique, Carpco induced roll and Boxmag Rapid magnetic separators were used. The main studied variables were: magnetic field intensity, the Carpco roll speed, feed rate and feed size. Denver D-12 flotation cell was used for flotation tests. The parameters pH value, pulp density, collector type and dose were optimized. The obtained results showed that using Carpco dry magnetic separator at optimum conditions produces a talc concentrate having 1.49 % Fe2O3. Wet magnetic separation under optimum conditions using Boxmag can lead to a talc concentrate having 1.33 % Fe2O3. The cleanest flotation concentrate has an iron content of 1.12 % Fe2O3. All these products can be used as filler in paper industry only. However, using flotation for cleaning the Carpco concentrate resulted in a final concentrate of 0.69 % Fe2O3 and 63.23 % SiO2 which has many industrial applications especially as filler.
Effect of preparation method of metal hydride electrode on efficiency of hydrogen electrosorption process
Authors: Giza Krystyna , Drulis Henryk
Published: November 2015

The preparation of negative electrodes for nickel–metal hydride batteries using LaNi4.3Co0.4Al0.3alloy is presented. The constant current discharge technique is employed to determine the discharge capacity, the exchange current density and the hydrogen diffusion coefficient of the studied electrodes. The electrochemical performance of metal hydride electrode is strongly affected by preparation conditions. The results are compared and the advantages and disadvantages of preparation methods of the electrodes are also discussed.
Risk-Taking Behavior of Left-Turners in Gap Acceptance and Its Effects on Capacity Estimation at Signalized Intersections
Authors: Tang Keshuang , Di Deshi , Li Keping
Published: November 2015

The capacity of signalized intersections with a permissive left-turn phase is influenced significantly by the gap acceptance of left-turners. Left-turners' perception of risk when they are deciding whether to accept a gap is of great importance for understanding such driver behavior and for developing countermeasures to improve intersections. This study's objective was thus to model the tradeoff relationship between the perceived risk and the time-saving benefit in gap acceptance for left-turners in China. In the proposed model, the perceived risk was measured by the postencroachment time of the left-turning vehicle and of the gap-ending through vehicle at the conflict; the time-saving benefit was indicated by the potential time to wait for the next acceptable gap. A gap acceptance model that incorporated both variables was then developed and validated by using data collected at two intersections in Shanghai. The acceptable risk level of left-turners could then be defined as the ratio of the estimated model coefficients of those two variables. Results indicated that the wait time significantly affected the gap acceptance and the critical gap decreased as the acceptable risk level rose. In addition, the acceptable risk level was found to be approximately 60 at the observed intersections. With the results, impacts of the acceptable risk level on the capacity of permissive left-turn traffic were investigated through a numerical study. The findings revealed that the capacity of permissive left-turn traffic could be stochastic in nature rather than constant because of random traffic flow characteristics as well as different risk perceptions of drivers.
Relationship of Lane Width to Capacity for Urban Expressways
Authors: Zheng Jinxuan , Sun Jian , Yang Jianhao
Published: November 2015

To increase the capacity of urban expressways in Shanghai, China, additional lanes were created during the past decade through reconstruction. Field measurements indicate that maximum lane width is 3.97 m and minimum width is only 2.73 m. To investigate the relationship between lane width and capacity for urban expressways, 3 months of traffic flow data were extracted and filtered from the system to manage inductive detectors on Shanghai's urban expressways. Analysis of all 440 segments of expressways in Shanghai showed that only 60 sites could reach their capacity; the characteristics of these 60 sites were further analyzed statistically. An analysis of a variance, a regression analysis, and a t-test were used to explore the relationship between lane width and capacity. The research showed that lane width had no statistically significant effect on capacity. Two causes that might account for this finding are discussed further: (a) free-flow speeds are similar for different lane widths according to the findings of a t-test that found no statistically significant differences and (b) the critical speed when capacity is reached for a Shanghai expressway is very low, only 45 km/h. Thus, drivers can deal with a narrow lane width at such a low critical speed. This finding suggests that geometric design policies for capacity purposes should provide substantial flexibility for use of narrower lane widths on urban expressways with low speed limits, although those lane widths must be subject to safety considerations.
Effect of an Upstream Traffic Signal on the Capacity of a Downstream Two-Way Stop-Controlled Intersection
Authors: Kyte Michael , Amin Enas , Troutbeck Rod
Published: November 2015

This paper investigates the platoon dispersion model that is part of the Highway Capacity Manual 2010 (HCM 2010) and is used to forecast downstream traffic flows for analyzing both signalized and two-way stop-controlled (TWSC) intersections. The paper focuses on the effect of platoon dispersion on proportion of time blocked, conflicting flow rate, and capacity flow rate for the major street left-turn movement at a TWSC intersection. Existing HCM 2010 methodology shows little effect on conflicting flow or capacity for various distances downstream from the signalized intersection. Two methods are suggested for computing the conflicting flow and capacity of minor stream movements at a TWSC intersection that have more desirable properties than the existing HCM method. Further, if the existing HCM 2010 method is retained, results suggest that the upstream signals model be dropped from the HCM method for TWSC intersections.
Average Delay at Unsignalized Intersections for Periods with Variable Traffic Demand
Authors: Brilon Werner
Published: November 2015

For unsignalized intersections, the average delay suffered by drivers on minor approaches is treated as the parameter to characterize the quality of service. The current method, as it is used by guidelines around the world, has some shortcomings. It neglects the initial queue at the beginning of the interval for observation, and it cannot account for realistic conditions during the subsequent interval. Both aspects make existing delay equations useless to analyze a sequence of time intervals. A new delay equation for unsignalized intersections has been derived; it can include the effects of an initial queue and of variable capacities. With these characteristics, it can be applied if a longer series of time intervals (e.g., 1 day) is analyzed. As with all current approaches, the new equation is also an approximate solution. It was tested by exact numerical calculations and by simulations. By these comparisons, the new equation demonstrated quite a high performance.
Updated Commercial Truck Speed versus Distance–Grade Curves for the Highway Capacity Manual
Authors: Ozkul Seckin , Washburn Scott S.
Published: November 2015

The current version of the Highway Capacity Manual 2010 (HCM 2010) gives guidance on commercial truck speeds on grade through the use of truck speed versus distance–grade curves, which are located in the HCM 2010, Chapter 11. These curves are designed to allow the analyst to estimate a commercial truck's speed after it travels on a known distance of roadway with a certain grade. Typically, these curves are used to determine an equivalent grade (incline–decline and length) that will result in the same final speed of commercial trucks as would the series of grades making up a composite grade. The HCM 2010 curves were developed as a result of studies that used simulation tools. These simulation tools used a simple lookup table approach for maximum acceleration versus speed and did not account for commercial truck transmission gear–changing capabilities. These shortcomings, along with changes in truck performance over the past 20 years, necessitate an update to the HCM 2010 speed versus distance–grade curves. This study presents the development of updated speed versus distance–grade curves for commercial trucks by using TRUCKSIM. This simulation tool uses a modeling approach of full-vehicle dynamics, which ensures that commercial truck performance is accurately represented for field conditions. The results show that the performance of commercial trucks, as presented in the HCM 2010, is worse than that currently observed. Therefore, the authors recommend that the current speed versus distance–grade curves included in the HCM be replaced with those presented in this study.
Generic Speed–Flow Models for Basic Freeway Segments on General-Purpose and Managed Lanes in Undersaturated Flow Conditions
Authors: Aghdashi Seyedbehzad , Rouphail Nagui M. , Hajbabaie Ali , Schroeder Bastian J.
Published: November 2015

This paper presents a generic set of undersaturated speed–flow models for basic freeway segments on general purpose and managed lanes (MLs) consistent with the Highway Capacity Manual 2010 (HCM 2010). The proposed models predict segment space mean speed under a wide set of freeway operational conditions that can affect its free-flow speed (FFS) and capacity. Furthermore, the proposed models allow quantifying the impacts of nonrecurring events, such as severe weather conditions, incidents, and work zones on the speed–flow relationship. In addition, the model allows calibration of real-world facilities through adjustments to FFS and capacity. The incorporation of analyses of reliability and active traffic and demand management in the HCM context requires a set of speed–flow models capable of accounting for the effect of nonrecurring sources of congestion. Currently, the HCM 2010 provides a set of speed–flow models to predict space mean speed and consequently other freeway performance measures. This family of equations provides a limited adjustment to FFS. With guidance from NCHRP Project 3-96, separate speed–flow models are proposed for MLs through use of a different form from that in the HCM. The proposed generic equations describing the speed–flow relationship provide consistency between speed–flow relationships of managed and general purpose lanes and can incorporate any capacity or FFS adjustments to predict segment speed under different circumstances. The proposed generic equations are wholly consistent with the speed–flow models in the HCM 2010 and predict the same speed under any flow rate.
On the Treatment of Trucks for Analysis of Freeway Capacity
Authors: List George F. , Yang Bo , Rouphail Nagui M.
Published: November 2015

The influence of trucks on highway performance has always been of interest. However, planning studies today tend to assume that a certain percentage of the traffic stream is trucks (e.g., 5%) and to make adjustments accordingly. The Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) converts trucks into passenger car equivalents by using a passenger car equivalent factor. For the HCM, however, this situation is changing. This paper describes changes to the basic freeway section methodology that are being developed to better address truck-related issues. Specifically, new models predict the space mean speeds of autos and trucks in mixed traffic streams for a variety of road grades. Also presented is a capacity adjustment factor that allows conversion of capacity values for auto-only conditions to be transformed into equivalent capacity values for mixed traffic conditions. The methodologies are presented, their development is described, and examples are given to illustrate how the procedure works.
Evaluation of Methodologies for Analyzing Freeway Ramp Weaving
Authors: Skabardonis Alexander , Mauch Michael
Published: November 2015

Weaving sections are common design elements on freeway facilities such as near ramps and freeway-to-freeway connectors. Traffic operational problems often exist at weaving areas even when traffic demands are less than capacity because of the complexity of vehicle interactions, resulting in poor level of service and potential safety problems. The objective of this research was to evaluate the methodology for analyzing freeway weaving in the Highway Capacity Manual 2010 (HCM 2010) and other methodologies for evaluating weaving, such as Level D and Leisch, that are used for design and analysis in California. The evaluation was based on the comparison of methods' predictions with field data. Emphasis was placed on the evaluation of ramp weaves consisting of a one lane on-ramp followed by an off-ramp with a continuous auxiliary lane. The findings from the evaluation of the HCM 2010 method on existing California weaving sites (93 data points) indicated that the method overpredicted the traffic densities and associated loss at ramp weaves by 24% on average. Additional data were collected at three ramp weaving sites in San Diego, California, by using Bluetooth readers and video recordings. The HCM 2010 method was found to overpredict density by an average of 13.4%. The Level D and Leisch methods overpredicted density by about 3% on average compared with observed values. The HCM 2010 method under predicted weaving section capacity when the weaving volume was above 30% of total weaving volume.
Synthesis of α,β-unsaturated esters via a chemo-enzymatic chain elongation approach by combining carboxylic acid reduction and Wittig reaction
Authors: Duan Yitao , Yao Peiyuan , Du Yuncheng , Feng Jinhui , Wu Qiaqing , Zhu Dunming
Published: November 2015

α,β-Unsaturated esters are versatile building blocks for organic synthesis and of significant importance for industrial applications. A great variety of synthetic methods have been developed, and quite a number of them use aldehydes as precursors. Herein we report a chemo-enzymatic chain elongation approach to access α,β-unsaturated esters by combining an enzymatic carboxylic acid reduction and Wittig reaction. Recently, we have found that Mycobacterium sp. was able to reduce phenylacetic acid (1a) to 2-phenyl-1-ethanol (1c) and two sequences in the Mycobacterium sp. genome had high identity with the carboxylic acid reductase (CAR) gene from Nocardia iowensis. These two putative CAR genes were cloned, overexpressed in E. coli and one of two proteins could reduce 1a. The recombinant CAR was purified and characterized. The enzyme exhibited high activity toward a variety of aromatic and aliphatic carboxylic acids, including ibuprofen. The Mycobacterium CAR catalyzed carboxylic acid reduction to give aldehydes, followed by a Wittig reaction to afford the products α,β-unsaturated esters with extension of two carbon atoms, demonstrating a new chemo-enzymatic method for the synthesis of these important compounds.
γδ T Cells Shape Preimmune Peripheral B Cell Populations
Authors: Huang Yafei , Getahun Andrew , Heiser Ryan A. , Detanico Thiago O. , Aviszus Katja , Kirchenbaum Greg A. , Casper Tamara L. , Huang Chunjian , Aydintug M. Kemal , Carding Simon R. , Ikuta Koichi , Huang Hua , Wysocki Lawrence J. , Cambier John C. , O’Brien Rebecca L. , Born Willi K.
Published: November 2015

We previously reported that selective ablation of certain γδ T cell subsets, rather than removal of all γδ T cells, strongly affects serum Ab levels in nonimmunized mice. This type of manipulation also changed T cells, including residual γδ T cells, revealing some interdependence of γδ T cell populations. For example, in mice lacking Vγ4+ and Vγ6+ γδ T cells (B6.TCR-Vγ4−/−/6−/−), we observed expanded Vγ1+ cells, which changed in composition and activation and produced more IL-4 upon stimulation in vitro, increased IL-4 production by αβ T cells as well as spontaneous germinal center formation in the spleen, and elevated serum Ig and autoantibodies. We therefore examined B cell populations in this and other γδ-deficient mouse strains. Whereas immature bone marrow B cells remained largely unchanged, peripheral B cells underwent several changes. Specifically, transitional and mature B cells in the spleen of B6.TCR-Vγ4−/−/6−/− mice and other peripheral B cell populations were diminished, most of all splenic marginal zone (MZ) B cells. However, relative frequencies and absolute numbers of Ab-producing cells, as well as serum levels of Abs, IL-4, and BAFF, were increased. Cell transfers confirmed that these changes are directly dependent on the altered γδ T cells in this strain and on their enhanced potential of producing IL-4. Further evidence suggests the possibility of direct interactions between γδ T cells and B cells in the splenic MZ. Taken together, these data demonstrate the capability of γδ T cells of modulating size and productivity of preimmune peripheral B cell populations.
Group 2 Innate Lymphoid Cells Express Functional NKp30 Receptor Inducing Type 2 Cytokine Production
Authors: Salimi Maryam , Xue Luzheng , Jolin Helen , Hardman Clare , Cousins David J. , McKenzie Andrew N. J. , Ogg Graham S.
Published: November 2015

Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) are important in effector functions for eliciting allergic inflammation, parasite defense, epithelial repair, and lipid homeostasis. ILC2 lack rearranged Ag-specific receptors, and although many soluble factors such as cytokines and lipid mediators can influence ILC2, direct interaction of these cells with the microenvironment and other cells has been less explored. Natural cytotoxicity receptors are expressed by subsets of group 1 ILC and group 3 ILC and thought to be important for their effector function, but they have not been shown to be expressed by ILC2. Therefore, we sought to investigate the expression and functional properties of the natural cytotoxicity receptor NKp30 on human ILC2. A subset of ex vivo and cultured ILC2 express NKp30 that upon interaction with its cognate activatory ligand B7-H6 induces rapid production of type 2 cytokines. This interaction can be blocked by NKp30 blocking Ab and an inhibitory ligand, galectin-3. Higher expression of B7-H6 was observed in lesional skin biopsies of patients with atopic dermatitis, and incubation of keratinocytes with proinflammatory and type 2 cytokines upregulated B7-H6, leading to increased ILC2 cytokine production. NKp30–B7-H6 interaction is a novel cell contact mechanism that mediates activation of ILC2 and identifies a potential target for the development of novel therapeutics for atopic dermatitis and other atopic diseases.
Migration of CD8+ T Cells into the Central Nervous System Gives Rise to Highly Potent Anti-HIV CD4dimCD8bright T Cells in a Wnt Signaling–Dependent Manner
Authors: Richards Maureen H. , Narasipura Srinivas D. , Seaton Melanie S. , Lutgen Victoria , Al-Harthi Lena
Published: November 2015

The role of CD8+ T cells in HIV control in the brain and the consequences of such control are unclear. Approximately 3% of peripheral CD8+ T cells dimly express CD4 on their surface. This population is known as CD4dimCD8bright T cells. We evaluated the role of CD4dimCD8bright and CD8 single positive T cells in HIV-infected brain using NOD/SCID/IL-2rcγ−/− mice reconstituted with human PBMCs (NSG-huPBMC). All three T cell populations (CD4 single positive, CD8 single positive, and CD4dimCD8bright) were found in NSG-huPBMC mouse brain within 2 wk of infection. Wnts secreted from astrocytes induced CD4dimCD8bright T cells by 2-fold in vitro. Injection of highly purified CD8 single positive T cells into mouse brain induced CD4dimCD8bright T cells by 10-fold, which were proliferative and exhibited a terminally differentiated effector memory phenotype. Brain CD4dimCD8bright T cells from HIV-infected mice exhibited anti-HIV–specific responses, as demonstrated by induction of CD107ab post exposure to HIV peptide–loaded targets. Further, higher frequency of CD4dimCD8bright T cells (R = −0.62; p ≤ 0.001), but not CD8 single positive T cells (R = −0.24; p ≤ 0.27), negatively correlated with HIV gag mRNA transcripts in HIV-infected NSG-huPBMC brain. Together, these studies indicate that single positive CD8+ T cells entering the CNS during HIV infection can give rise to CD4dimCD8bright T cells, likely through a Wnt signaling–dependent manner, and that these cells are associated with potent anti-HIV control in the CNS. Thus, CD4dimCD8bright T cells are capable of HIV control in the CNS and may offer protection against HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders.
The Mitochondrial Phosphatase PGAM5 Is Dispensable for Necroptosis but Promotes Inflammasome Activation in Macrophages
Authors: Moriwaki Kenta , Farias Luz Nivea , Balaji Sakthi , De Rosa Maria Jose , O’Donnell Carey L. , Gough Peter J. , Bertin John , Welsh Raymond M. , Chan Francis Ka-Ming
Published: November 2015

The cytokine IL-1β is intimately linked to many pathological inflammatory conditions. Mature IL-1β secretion requires cleavage by the inflammasome. Recent evidence indicates that many cell death signal adaptors have regulatory roles in inflammasome activity. These include the apoptosis inducers FADD and caspase 8, and the necroptosis kinases receptor interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) and RIPK3. PGAM5 is a mitochondrial phosphatase that has been reported to function downstream of RIPK3 to promote necroptosis and IL-1β secretion. To interrogate the biological function of PGAM5, we generated Pgam5−/− mice. We found that Pgam5−/− mice were smaller compared with wild type littermates, and male Pgam5−/− mice were born at sub-Mendelian ratio. Despite these growth and survival defects, Pgam5−/− cells responded normally to multiple inducers of apoptosis and necroptosis. Rather, we found that PGAM5 is critical for IL-1β secretion in response to NLRP3 and AIM2 inflammasome agonists. Moreover, vesicular stomatosis virus–induced IL-1β secretion was impaired in Pgam5−/− bone marrow–derived macrophages, but not in Ripk3−/− bone marrow–derived dendritic cells, indicating that PGAM5 functions independent of RIPK3 to promote inflammasome activation. Mechanistically, PGAM5 promotes ASC polymerization, maintenance of mitochondrial integrity, and optimal reactive oxygen species production in response to inflammasome signals. Hence PGAM5 is a novel regulator of inflammasome and caspase 1 activity that functions independently of RIPK3.
Helios Controls a Limited Subset of Regulatory T Cell Functions
Authors: Sebastian Mathew , Lopez-Ocasio Maria , Metidji Amina , Rieder Sadiye Amcaoglu , Shevach Ethan M. , Thornton Angela M.
Published: November 2015

A subpopulation (60–70%) of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in both mouse and man expresses the transcription factor Helios, but its role in Treg function is still unknown. We generated Treg-specific Helios-deficient mice to examine the function of Helios in Tregs. We show that the selective deletion of Helios in Tregs leads to slow, progressive systemic immune activation, hypergammaglobulinemia, and enhanced germinal center formation in the absence of organ-specific autoimmunity. Helios-deficient Treg suppressor function was normal in vitro, as well as in an in vivo inflammatory bowel disease model. However, Helios-deficient Tregs failed to control the expansion of pathogenic T cells derived from scurfy mice, failed to mediate T follicular regulatory cell function, and failed to control both T follicular helper cell and Th1 effector cell responses. In competitive settings, Helios-deficient Tregs, particularly effector Tregs, were at a disadvantage, indicating that Helios regulates effector Treg fitness. Thus, we demonstrate that Helios controls certain aspects of Treg-suppressive function, differentiation, and survival.
Life satisfaction and frailty among older adults
Authors: Wilhelmson Katarina , Fritzell Emelie , Eklund Kajsa , Dahlin-Ivanoff Synneve
Published: November 2015

Functional and physical impairment are factors believed to lead to declined life satisfaction among older adults. This study aimed to examine life satisfaction among older adults and the influence of frailty. Baseline data from two studies addressing frail older adults aged 80+ in Gothenburg, Sweden, (n=577) were used. Frailty was measured through eight indicators. Life satisfaction was measured with Fugl-Meyer’s instrument LiSat-11. Perceived life satisfaction was rather high within the studied population, with 66% being satisfied with life as a whole. Most life satisfaction items were significantly associated with frailty status, with non-frail participants being satisfied to a higher extent for all items with the exception of financial situation, sexual life and partnership relation. The factors significantly explaining life satisfaction were psychological health, partner relationship, leisure and ADL. This study shows that older adults’ satisfaction with life as a whole is almost as high as in younger age groups. Respondents with higher degree of frailty reported significantly lower degrees of life satisfaction, indicating a possibility to maintain life satisfaction by preventing or delaying the development of frailty.
Resilience and professional quality of life in staff working with people with intellectual disabilities and offending behavior in community based and institutional settings
Authors: Søndenaa Erik , Lauvrud Christian , Sandvik Marita , Nonstad Kåre , Whittington Richard
Published: November 2015

Staff in forensic services for people with intellectual disabilities (ID) are expected to deal with a wide range of emotional challenges when providing care. The potential impact of this demanding work has not been systematically explored previously. This article explores the professional quality of life (QoL) and the resilience (hardiness) of the staff in this setting. The Professional QoL questionnaire and the Disposional Resilience Scale were completed by staff (n=85, 80% response rate) in the Norwegian forensic service for ID offenders. Responses from staff working in institutional settings were compared to those from staff in local community services. Staff in the local community services had higher resilience scores compared to the staff in the institutional setting, (t=2.19; P<0.05). However in the other QoL and resilience domains there were no differences between the staff in the two settings. The greater sense of resilient control among community staff may be a function of both the number of service users they work with and the institutional demands they face. Even though these participants worked with relatively high risk clients, they did not report significantly impaired quality of life compared to other occupations.
Applicability and validity of the Amnestic Comparative Self-Assessment in adolescents
Authors: Roeser Karolin , Schwerdtle Barbara , Eichholz Ruth , Kübler Andrea
Published: November 2015

The Amnestic Comparative Self-Assessment (ACSA) is a sensitive, efficient, and economic instrument to assess overall quality of life in adult populations. The present study investigates the applicability of the ACSA in an adolescent sample and compares it to a measure of health-related quality of life, the Kiddo-Kindl. The sample comprised 92 adolescents (50 girls, 42 boys) aged 11-17 years (mean age: 13.67, standard deviation: 1.34). Of the investigated sample, n=69 (75%) completed the ACSA. No significant demographic differences were found between ACSA-respondents and non-respondents. The correlation of the Kiddo-Kindl and the ACSA was moderate (r=0.50). The Kiddo-Kindl subscales and the ACSA correlated between r=0.07 and 0.41. The majority of adolescents are able to complete the ASCA, and its acceptance and validity are independent of age. Thus, future investigations could adopt the ACSA in adolescents to assess overall quality of life.